Thursday, April 9, 2026

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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0

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

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Rajni G
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0

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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0

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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0

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

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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

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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.

ThunderPlus Charges Ahead with ₹15 Crore Revenue, Targets 2.2X Growth in India’s EV Infra Market

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Rajni G
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Representational image. Credit: Canva

ThunderPlus Solutions Pvt Ltd has reported strong financial and operational performance for FY 2025–26, posting a year-to-date (YTD) revenue of approximately ₹15 crore and setting an ambitious target of ₹33.4 crore for FY 2026–27, reflecting a 2.2X growth trajectory.

The EV charging infrastructure company has emerged as a standout player in a capital-intensive sector, achieving a 19% operational margin and maintaining profitability—an uncommon feat in an industry where many competitors continue to incur losses. The company also reported a positive profit-after-tax (PAT) margin of 15%, underscoring its focus on sustainable growth.

ThunderPlus witnessed rapid expansion over the past year, with revenues surging from ₹4 lakh in April 2025 to ₹138 lakh in October 2025, marking a remarkable 34-fold increase within six months. Its core charging operations business remains the primary revenue driver, contributing more than 60% to total earnings.

The company has also seen significant traction in its public charging segment. Revenue from public charging nearly tripled, rising from ₹5.3 lakh in May 2025 to ₹15 lakh in February 2026. This growth aligns with ThunderPlus’ strategy to build a robust public fast-charging network across key EV corridors in India.

Currently operating over 250 charging stations nationwide, the company is expanding aggressively in high-growth regions such as Tamil Nadu, Karnataka, and Andhra Pradesh, with a focus on ultra-fast charging infrastructure powered by 240kW+ chargers.

In a notable achievement, ThunderPlus has secured debt funding from State Bank of India, becoming one of the few companies in the EV charging space to access institutional financing—further validating its business model and financial stability.

As part of its expansion strategy, the company is investing ₹9.05 crore to establish six new high-capacity public charging stations along major transit corridors. These installations are expected to generate an annual operational margin of ₹99 lakh while significantly enhancing network capacity.

Commenting on the company’s performance, Executive Director Rajeev YSR said the focus has been on building a profitable and scalable EV charging business rather than pursuing growth at the expense of financial discipline. He added that strong revenue growth and improving margins validate the company’s long-term strategy.

Looking ahead, ThunderPlus plans to drive growth through a diversified four-channel model, including public charging, Park & Charge solutions, EPC projects, and equipment sales. With EV adoption accelerating across India, the company aims to capitalize on rising demand and strengthen its position in the rapidly evolving EV infrastructure market.

Renault Unveils ‘futuREady’ Plan to Drive Global Growth with Electrification Push by 2030

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Rajni G
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Renault has announced an ambitious new strategic roadmap, futuREady, aimed at accelerating global growth, expanding electrification, and strengthening its international footprint by 2030.

The plan is built on three key pillars—reinforcing its leadership in Europe, advancing electrification across its portfolio, and aggressively expanding in global markets. The company aims to sell over 2 million vehicles annually by 2030, with half of its sales coming from outside Europe.

As part of its European strategy, Renault will launch 12 new models by the end of the decade, focusing on its stronghold in A and B segments while expanding into higher-margin C and D segments. The lineup will include next-generation electric and hybrid vehicles, building on popular models such as the Renault 5 E-Tech and Renault 4 E-Tech.

Electrification remains central to the strategy. Renault confirmed it will continue its full hybrid E-Tech technology beyond 2030 while accelerating the rollout of battery electric vehicles. A key highlight is the development of the new RGEV medium 2.0 platform, designed for enhanced range, efficiency, and ultra-fast charging with 800-volt architecture. The platform will support multiple configurations, including fully electric models with up to 750 km range and extended-range variants reaching up to 1,400 km.

In the commercial vehicle segment, Renault is also advancing electrification with a new generation of electric vans featuring software-defined vehicle (SDV) architecture and fast-charging capabilities.

The brand also showcased its innovation vision through the Renault R-Space Lab concept, which reimagines the in-car experience with a modular, tech-driven cabin focused on comfort, connectivity, and safety. Features include a full-width panoramic display, AI-based driver assistance, and flexible seating configurations.

On the global front, Renault plans to launch 14 new models across key international markets, including India, Latin America, South Korea, and Türkiye. These regions are expected to play a critical role in achieving the company’s growth targets.

India, in particular, has been identified as a major hub for production and exports. Renault plans to introduce four new models in the country by 2030, including electric and hybrid vehicles tailored for local and global markets.

The company also revealed the Bridger Concept, a sub-4-meter SUV designed for urban markets. Expected to enter production by 2027, the model will be built in India and offered with multiple powertrain options, including electric and hybrid variants.

By 2030, Renault aims to achieve 100% electrified sales in Europe and 50% electrified sales in international markets, underscoring its commitment to sustainable mobility and future-ready innovation.

With the futuREady plan, Renault is positioning itself to lead the next phase of automotive transformation through a balanced approach of electrification, innovation, and global expansion.

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