Saturday, April 4, 2026

Ultraviolette Automotive inks MoU with Government of Karnataka for Manufacturing Expansion Backed by PLI Support

By
Kavitha
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Ultraviolette Automotive has announced a proposed five-year investment plan to expand its manufacturing footprint in Karnataka, signalling a major push to scale its production capabilities in India’s rapidly growing electric mobility sector.

The phased expansion programme will include capacity enhancement at the company’s existing facility along with the establishment of a new production plant within the state. The move reinforces the company’s long-term commitment to Karnataka and aligns with its broader strategy to accelerate electric vehicle adoption in India.

To formalize this initiative, Ultraviolette signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the Government of Karnataka during the Invest Karnataka Conclave held in Bengaluru. The agreement was signed in the presence of M. B. Patil, Minister for Large and Medium Industries.

Commenting on the development, CEO and Co-founder Narayan Subramaniam stated that Karnataka continues to play a pivotal role in the company’s “Make in India for the World” vision. He highlighted the state’s robust EV ecosystem, infrastructure readiness, and policy support as key enablers for the company’s next phase of growth.

CTO and Co-founder Niraj Rajmohan emphasized Karnataka’s contribution to Ultraviolette’s research and development journey, citing access to engineering talent, strong supplier networks, and proximity to major industrial hubs as critical advantages.

Headquartered in Bengaluru, Ultraviolette is known for its proprietary battery technology and performance-focused electric two-wheelers, including models such as the F77 and X-47 Crossover.

The company currently operates over 40 experience centres across major Indian cities and aims to expand its presence to 100 cities by the end of 2026.

On the global front, Ultraviolette has entered 12 European countries, becoming one of India’s first electric two-wheeler manufacturers to establish a presence in Europe. The company is also planning further expansion across Asia and Latin America as part of its international growth strategy.

Sony and Honda Halt AFEELA EV Launch as Joint Venture Reviews Business Strategy

By
Rajni G
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Representational image. Credit: Canva

Sony Group Corporation and Honda Motor Co., Ltd. have announced a strategic review of their joint venture Sony Honda Mobility Inc. (SHM), including the discontinuation of development and launch plans for its first electric vehicle model, AFEELA 1, along with a planned second model.

The decision follows a reassessment of Honda’s automobile electrification strategy announced earlier in March 2026, as well as evolving dynamics in the global electric vehicle (EV) market. According to the joint statement, these changes significantly altered key assumptions underlying SHM’s operations, particularly regarding the use of certain technologies and assets originally planned to be supplied by Honda.

Sony Honda Mobility was established in September 2022 to combine Sony’s strengths in electronics, entertainment, and software technologies with Honda’s expertise in automotive engineering and mobility development. The partnership aimed to create high value-added electric vehicles and offer advanced mobility services, integrating digital technologies with next-generation automotive platforms.

However, with Honda’s revised electrification roadmap and shifting EV market conditions, the companies said continuing development of the AFEELA vehicle program under the existing structure had become impractical. As a result, SHM has decided to discontinue the planned launch of the AFEELA 1 and a follow-up model.

Despite the cancellation of these initial vehicle projects, Sony, Honda, and SHM emphasized that discussions regarding the future of the joint venture are ongoing. The partners are currently evaluating the venture’s long-term direction while considering its original purpose and the rapidly changing mobility landscape.

The companies said they intend to announce the future positioning and strategic direction of Sony Honda Mobility as soon as possible, including its potential contributions to next-generation mobility technologies.

The review reflects the broader challenges facing the global EV sector, where automakers are increasingly reassessing investment strategies due to changing demand patterns, technological shifts, and evolving regulatory frameworks.

Both Sony and Honda reaffirmed their commitment to exploring opportunities for innovation in mobility and digital technologies. The companies noted that the collaboration was initially designed to redefine the future of mobility by integrating software-driven experiences, advanced sensors, connectivity, and entertainment technologies into electric vehicles.

Ultraviolette Automotive Plans Major Karnataka Expansion with New Manufacturing Plant

By
Rajni G
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Ultraviolette Automotive has unveiled an ambitious five-year investment plan to expand its manufacturing footprint in Karnataka, signaling a strong push to scale production and strengthen its position in India’s fast-growing electric mobility sector.

The proposed expansion includes capacity enhancement at the company’s existing facility and the establishment of a new production plant in the state. The move is aimed at supporting rising demand for high-performance electric two-wheelers and accelerating Ultraviolette’s long-term growth strategy.

As part of the initiative, Ultraviolette signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the Government of Karnataka during the ‘Invest Karnataka’ Conclave held in Bengaluru. The agreement was formalized in the presence of M. B. Patil, Minister for Large and Medium Industries, highlighting the state’s commitment to fostering electric vehicle manufacturing.

Speaking on the development, Narayan Subramaniam, CEO and Co-founder of Ultraviolette, emphasized that Karnataka has played a central role in the company’s journey. He noted that the state’s strong EV ecosystem, skilled talent pool and supportive policies provide a solid foundation for the company’s next phase of growth.

Niraj Rajmohan, CTO and Co-founder, added that Karnataka has been instrumental in the company’s research and development efforts. He highlighted the availability of engineering talent, supplier networks and proximity to industrial hubs as key advantages that have enabled Ultraviolette to build globally competitive products.

Headquartered in Bengaluru, Ultraviolette is known for its performance-focused electric motorcycles, including the F77 and X-47 Crossover. The company currently operates over 40 experience centres across India and aims to expand its presence to 100 cities by the end of 2026.

On the global front, Ultraviolette has already entered 12 European countries, becoming one of the first Indian electric two-wheeler manufacturers to establish a presence in Europe. The company is also planning further expansion into markets across Asia and Latin America.

The planned manufacturing expansion underscores Ultraviolette’s commitment to the “Make in India for the World” vision, while strengthening Karnataka’s position as a key hub for electric vehicle innovation and production.

Cityflo Expands to Delhi NCR and Kolkata, Becomes India’s Largest App-Based Bus Operator

By
Rajni G
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Cityflo has announced a major expansion of its premium daily commute services in Delhi NCR and its entry into Kolkata, marking a significant milestone in India’s shared mobility sector. With this move, the company’s total operational fleet has crossed 1,000 buses—three times higher than last year—making it the largest app-based bus operator in the country.

The expansion reflects a growing shift among corporate professionals toward reliable and structured commuting solutions, as traditional public transport systems struggle with inconsistency and service gaps. Cityflo’s model focuses on predictability, offering reserved seating, fixed routes and strong safety protocols.

The company now operates in four major cities—Mumbai, Hyderabad, Delhi-NCR and Kolkata—covering some of India’s busiest economic hubs with dense corporate populations.

In Delhi NCR, Cityflo is deploying over 200 buses across more than 30 routes, connecting residential areas such as Delhi, Noida, Faridabad and Gurgaon with key commercial hubs like DLF Cyber City and Sohna Road. Meanwhile, in Kolkata, the company is launching services with an initial fleet of 200 buses, focusing on high-demand routes linking residential zones to business districts including Sector V and New Town.

Commenting on the expansion, Jerin Venad, Co-founder and CEO of Cityflo, said that both Delhi NCR and Kolkata have millions of daily commuters who continue to rely heavily on private vehicles. He emphasized that offering a dependable, comfortable and affordable commuting option can encourage a shift toward shared mobility, ultimately reducing congestion and benefiting urban infrastructure.

Cityflo’s growth has been driven by its focus on product quality, operational efficiency and customer trust. The platform has built a strong reputation for reliability—ensuring buses run on schedule—and providing features such as express routes, live tracking and customer support.

The company currently serves over 5 million professionals annually and has recorded a 50% increase in daily ridership over the past year. Its services are estimated to replace around 16 lakh private car trips each year, contributing significantly to reducing traffic congestion in urban centers.

Looking ahead, Cityflo plans to further expand its network, strengthen corporate partnerships and accelerate the transition to an electric fleet. The company aims to position itself as the default commuting solution for professionals across India, promoting sustainable and efficient urban mobility.

SUN Mobility Secures India’s First AIS 038 Certification for Swappable High-Voltage Battery Platform

By
Rajni G
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SUN Mobility has achieved a major milestone in India’s electric mobility sector by becoming the first company to receive AIS 038 certification for an indigenously developed swappable high-voltage battery platform designed for trucks and buses.

The certification was granted by Automotive Research Association of India after rigorous testing validated the platform’s safety, performance and reliability for commercial vehicle applications. The development marks a significant step forward in accelerating electrification in India’s heavy commercial vehicle segment.

SUN Mobility’s journey in battery swapping began in 2019 with the introduction of India’s first swappable battery system for buses. Since then, the company has built a comprehensive high-voltage ecosystem tailored for heavy electric vehicles (HEVs), including both buses and trucks. The solution is aimed at reducing downtime, eliminating range anxiety and improving operational efficiency and financing flexibility for fleet operators.

The newly certified platform is available in 50 kWh and 100 kWh variants, operating in the 660V category. Its modular and OEM-agnostic design allows integration into new vehicles as well as retrofit applications, enabling operators to customize energy capacity based on specific operational needs.

The announcement comes at a time when India’s commercial EV ecosystem is gaining momentum, supported by government initiatives such as the PM e-DRIVE scheme, which is accelerating the adoption of electric buses and trucks. SUN Mobility’s certified platform is expected to play a crucial role in meeting the rising demand for scalable and cost-effective EV solutions.

Speaking on the achievement, Ashok Agarwal, CEO of SUN Mobility’s HEV Business, said that swap-enabled heavy electric vehicles will be key to driving EV adoption at scale. He added that the certification reinforces the company’s mission to democratize electric mobility through Made-in-India solutions.

Naveen Chopra, Chief Technology Officer and Chief Operating Officer (Manufacturing Operations), highlighted that the platform addresses the complex performance and reliability requirements of heavy commercial vehicles while demonstrating the robustness of indigenous engineering capabilities.

With over 160 intellectual property filings and more than 40 patents already granted, SUN Mobility continues to strengthen its position as a technology leader in EV infrastructure. The certification also underscores India’s growing ability to develop globally competitive clean mobility solutions, supporting the broader vision of self-reliance in advanced automotive technologies.

Ola Electric Launches #EndICEAge Campaign with EVs Starting at ₹49,999

By
Rajni G
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Ola Electric has announced the launch of its ambitious #EndICEAge campaign, aimed at accelerating India’s transition to electric mobility through aggressive pricing, enhanced ownership benefits and an expanded EV portfolio.

As part of the limited-period campaign valid until March 31, 2026, the company is offering its Gen 3 S1 X (2kWh) scooter and Roadster X (2.5kWh) motorcycle at an introductory price of ₹49,999. Customers can also avail benefits of up to ₹50,000 across Ola’s electric vehicle lineup, making EV adoption more accessible amid rising fuel costs.

To strengthen customer confidence, Ola Electric has introduced an “Assured Ownership Experience” with several guarantees. These include a Service Trust Guarantee, under which customers will receive free Ola cab vouchers in case of service delays beyond the promised timeframe. The company also offers a Buyback Guarantee of up to 60% value, ensuring better resale prospects, along with a standard 8-year extended warranty across all S1 scooters and Roadster motorcycles.

Commenting on the initiative, Bhavish Aggarwal, Chairman and Managing Director of Ola Electric, said the campaign reflects the urgent need for energy independence as fuel prices continue to rise. He emphasized that the company is committed to making electric vehicles a practical and confident choice for every Indian consumer.

Ola Electric highlighted that its vehicles deliver category-leading performance and technology. The scooters offer a range of up to 320 km, while the Roadster motorcycles can reach up to 500 km on a single charge. With acceleration from 0–40 km/h in just 2.1 seconds and a top speed of 141 km/h, the vehicles are designed to rival traditional internal combustion engine (ICE) counterparts. Additionally, the MoveOS 5 platform enables continuous over-the-air updates, enhancing user experience over time.

The company’s portfolio includes premium models such as the S1 Pro+ and S1 Pro, along with mass-market offerings like the S1 X and S1 X+. The Roadster lineup features multiple battery configurations catering to different price segments, further expanding consumer choice.

With the #EndICEAge campaign, Ola Electric is positioning itself to drive mass EV adoption in India by combining affordability, performance and long-term ownership assurance, as competition in the electric mobility space intensifies.

INFINITI Reveals All-New QX65 Fastback SUV with Bold Design and Advanced Tech

By
Rajni G
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INFINITI has unveiled the all-new 2027 QX65, a sporty fastback SUV that blends striking design, advanced technology and engaging performance. Inspired by the iconic INFINITI FX, the new model marks a significant step forward in the brand’s design and engineering evolution. The QX65 is set to arrive at U.S. dealerships in early summer 2026.

The QX65 showcases the brand’s “Artistry in Motion” design language with a dramatic arched roofline, wide stance and coupe-like fastback silhouette. Its sculpted body lines, crisp rear spoiler and tapering glass surfaces give it a refined yet athletic appearance. At the front, a bold three-dimensional grille inspired by bamboo forests is complemented by signature digital piano key headlamps, while a full-width LED tail lamp adds a distinctive lighting signature. A new exterior shade, Sunfire Red, features gold-coated glass flecks for a premium finish.

Inside, the cabin reflects Japanese-inspired craftsmanship and hospitality. Premium materials, detailed finishes and customizable ambient lighting with 64 color options create a serene yet modern environment. The SUV also offers flexible second-row seating and ample cargo space, enhancing practicality for daily use and long journeys.

On the technology front, the QX65 features dual 12.3-inch displays for instrumentation and infotainment. Built-in Google integration provides seamless access to navigation, apps and voice assistance, while wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto ensure connectivity. An available Klipsch premium audio system, along with personalized sound features, delivers an immersive in-cabin experience.

Powering the QX65 is INFINITI’s Variable Compression Turbo (VC-Turbo) engine, paired with a 9-speed automatic transmission and paddle shifters. The setup is tuned for responsive acceleration and a sportier driving feel. Additional features such as Active Noise Cancellation and Active Sound Enhancement refine cabin acoustics, while standard Intelligent All-Wheel Drive enhances traction and control.

The SUV also comes equipped with a suite of advanced driver assistance systems, including enhanced camera views and parking support. Select variants offer ProPILOT Assist 2.1, enabling hands-off driving in certain highway conditions while ensuring driver attentiveness.

With its combination of bold styling, luxury features and advanced technologies, the QX65 aims to strengthen INFINITI’s presence in the premium SUV segment.

Maruti Suzuki Hits 1 Lakh Rail Dispatch Milestone, Boosts Green Logistics Push

By
Rajni G
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0

Maruti Suzuki India Limited has achieved a major milestone in sustainable logistics, dispatching over 1 lakh vehicles through its in-plant railway siding at the Manesar facility within just nine months of operations.

Operational since June 2025, the Manesar railway siding—India’s largest automobile in-plant rail facility—has significantly contributed to reducing the company’s carbon footprint. The initiative has led to an estimated avoidance of 16,800 metric tonnes of CO2 equivalent emissions, reinforcing Maruti Suzuki’s commitment to greener transportation solutions.

The facility has enabled the company to dispatch vehicles such as Alto, WagonR, Brezza, Dzire, and Ertiga through more than 500 railway rakes. Using a hub-and-spoke model, the siding currently services 380 cities via 17 logistics hubs, improving efficiency while easing road congestion.

Speaking on the achievement, Managing Director and CEO Hisashi Takeuchi highlighted that the milestone reflects the company’s strong focus on sustainable logistics. He noted that the Manesar siding has the capacity to dispatch up to 4.5 lakh vehicles annually, further strengthening rail-based vehicle transportation.

Maruti Suzuki has been steadily increasing its reliance on rail logistics. The share of rail transport in outbound vehicle dispatches has grown from just 5% in 2016 to 26% in 2025. The company now aims to scale this share to 35% by FY 2030–31 as part of its long-term sustainability goals and alignment with India’s net-zero ambitions.

The Manesar siding is part of the 126-km Haryana Orbital Rail Corridor under the PM GatiShakti National Master Plan. Developed in collaboration with Haryana Orbital Rail Corporation Ltd., the project has seen Maruti Suzuki invest approximately ₹452 crore, including ₹325 crore in the corridor and ₹127 crore in internal infrastructure.

Spread across 46 acres, the facility features a fully electrified rail corridor with multiple tracks, advanced train interlocking systems, and dedicated pathways for operations. It represents a significant leap in integrating rail logistics into automotive supply chains.

Maruti Suzuki, the first automobile company in India to obtain an Automobile-Freight-Train-Operator (AFTO) license in 2013, has transported over 29.5 lakh vehicles via rail since FY 2014–15.

With continued investments in rail infrastructure, the company is positioning itself at the forefront of sustainable logistics in India’s automotive sector, contributing to reduced emissions and improved transport efficiency.

VinFast Expands India Footprint with 50th Showroom, Opens Flagship 3S Facility in Bengaluru

By
Rajni G
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0

VinFast has marked a major milestone in its India expansion journey with the inauguration of its 50th showroom, a flagship 3S (Sales, Service, Spare Parts) facility in Bengaluru.

Operated by PPS Motors LLP under the leadership of Raaj Sekar, the newly opened dealership is strategically located on Hosur Road in the Electronic City area. Spread across 11,500 sq ft, the facility integrates a modern showroom and service center, including a 2,500 sq ft premium display space designed to deliver an immersive customer experience aligned with VinFast’s global retail standards.

The launch reflects the company’s rapid growth in India and its commitment to strengthening accessibility to premium electric mobility solutions. VinFast aims to expand its retail network further, targeting 75 dealerships across more than 60 cities by the end of 2026. The strategy includes not only metro cities but also emerging markets, signaling a broader push to deepen EV adoption nationwide.

Speaking on the occasion, Tapan Ghosh highlighted that reaching 50 showrooms demonstrates the company’s accelerated expansion and commitment to building a strong brand presence. He noted that the Bengaluru flagship facility will deliver integrated services across sales, service, and spare parts, enhancing the overall customer experience.

As part of its India strategy, VinFast is developing a comprehensive EV ecosystem that includes manufacturing, retail, charging infrastructure, after-sales services, and a circular battery value chain. The company is also collaborating with financial institutions and partners to simplify EV ownership.

VinFast’s electric SUV lineup, including the VF 6 and VF 7, has achieved 5-star Bharat NCAP safety ratings. The vehicles are supported by customer-focused initiatives such as roadside assistance, three years of free maintenance, and extended warranties of up to 10 years or 200,000 kilometers.

To further encourage EV adoption, the company has introduced programs like “Value Assured,” which guarantees resale value, and extended free charging on its V-Green network until March 31, 2029. Additionally, parent company Vingroup is promoting its “Trade Gas for Electric” initiative, offering incentives for customers transitioning from internal combustion vehicles to electric mobility.

With its expanding dealership network and customer-centric initiatives, VinFast is positioning itself as a key player in India’s rapidly growing electric vehicle market.

Bolt.Earth and Ather Energy Join Forces to Expand Fast Charging Access Across 100+ Indian Cities

By
Rajni G
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0

Bolt.Earth has partnered with Ather Energy to enhance fast-charging accessibility for electric two-wheeler riders across India, marking a significant step toward strengthening the country’s EV ecosystem.

Under this collaboration, Ather riders can now seamlessly locate LECCS-enabled Blaze DC fast chargers through the Ather app and scooter dashboard. Additionally, users can book and initiate charging sessions directly via the Bolt.Earth EV Charging App, ensuring a smooth and integrated charging experience.

The partnership immediately unlocks access to over 195 Blaze DC fast chargers across more than 100 cities, including Bengaluru, Chennai, Hyderabad, Kochi, and Visakhapatnam. These chargers, equipped with Type 7 (LECCS standard) connectors, offer rapid charging capabilities—delivering up to 40 km of range in just 15 minutes—helping reduce downtime and making daily commuting more convenient.

This move significantly expands charging options for Ather scooter owners, complementing the company’s existing infrastructure while supporting the growing demand for reliable and fast EV charging solutions.

Looking ahead, Bolt.Earth plans to further strengthen its charging network by introducing higher-capacity 6kW and 12kW Blaze DC chargers. These upgrades aim to cater to both urban users and high-density travel routes, while also supporting a wider range of LECCS-compatible electric two- and three-wheelers.

The collaboration also reinforces Bolt.Earth’s open-network strategy, which focuses on interoperability and accessibility across multiple EV platforms. With real-time charger discovery and availability updates, the integration directly addresses range anxiety—one of the key barriers to EV adoption in India.

Commenting on the partnership, S. Raghav Bharadwaj, CEO and Co-Founder of Bolt.Earth, emphasized that easy access to fast charging is essential for scaling EV adoption. He noted that the collaboration with Ather Energy aims to make charging as convenient and intuitive as traditional refueling, thereby boosting rider confidence.

Echoing similar sentiments, Aravind Prasad, Head of Charging Infrastructure at Ather Energy, said that dependable and seamless charging experiences are crucial for improving overall EV ownership. He added that the partnership extends charging accessibility beyond Ather’s own network, offering users greater flexibility and convenience.

The alliance represents a key milestone in advancing fast-charging adoption for electric two- and three-wheelers in India. By combining infrastructure expansion with smart integration, Bolt.Earth and Ather Energy aim to accelerate EV adoption, reduce range anxiety, and create a more connected and rider-friendly ecosystem.

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