Latest news with #AutocarIndia
NDTV
4 days ago
- Automotive
- NDTV
Maruti Suzuki Likely To Roll Out E20 Conversion Kits Amid Ethanol Push
While there has been a backlash from vehicle owners over the introduction of 20 percent ethanol-blended petrol (E20), the government has emphasised the fact that the move will help improve the performance of the vehicles. However, owners of older vehicles are still worried about the effects of the new fuel on their vehicles. Reassuring such motorists, multiple brands have announced measures for owners of non-compliant vehicles. Among the manufacturers reassuring consumers is Maruti Suzuki, which is likely to offer E20 material upgrade kits for vehicles that are 10 to 15 years old, as per Autocar India's report. However, the details regarding the pricing of the upgrades are scarce. The report suggests that the cost of these upgrade kits can range between Rs 4,000 to Rs 6,000, varying based on the model. Similarly, other brands are also exploring options for such upgrades, including those in the two-wheeler industry. Also Read: Union Minister Nitin Gadkari Calls Ethanol 'Fuel Of Future' Modifications to ensure a vehicle meets E20 compliance require the replacement of specific components, including metal, rubber, and plastic parts such as fuel lines, seals, and gaskets. However, some effort is still necessary for testing and validation, particularly for engines that are no longer being produced. Therefore, the development of these components will be an added consideration. Additionally, achieving overall E20 compliance might pose challenges when returning an engine to ensure that emission levels adhere to the specified limits. Addressing the concerns of vehicle owners regarding wear and tear of parts, the government issued a statement saying, "In most parameters, including drivability, startability, metal compatibility, and plastic compatibility, there are no issues. Only in case of certain older vehicles, some rubber parts and gaskets may require replacement earlier than in case non blended fuel was used. This replacement is inexpensive and can be easily managed during routine servicing. It may need to be done once in the lifetime of vehicle and is a simple process to be carried out at any authorised workshop."
The Citizen
07-08-2025
- Automotive
- The Citizen
Nissan's incoming new Renault Duster twin spied for the first time
Rumoured to revive the Terrano name used on the first generation Duster, the newcomer will head a range of two Nissan-badged Renault products approved for South Africa. So far only seen in teaser image form the first of Nissan's two incoming new SUVs has been spotted undergoing testing in India ahead of its market arrival next year. Nissan by Renault Reported in May has having entered the pre-production phase, the newcomer will be based on sister brand Renault's new Duster, and produced at the Chennai plant for the local and export markets. .@Nissan_India's upcoming C-segment SUV has just been spotted on test in India for the first time. Essentially a badge-engineered sibling of the Renault Duster, we can expect it to launch in India by the middle of 2026. Tap belowhttps:// — Autocar India (@autocarindiamag) August 7, 2025 The first of three Nissan-badged Renault models for India, the newcomer will ride on the same CMF-B platform as the Duster, and more than likely, have the same choice of engines. ALSO READ: Making sense of Nissan-Renault's SUVs heading to South Africa Based on the images posted by Autocar India, the main differences will, seemingly, be limited to the exterior and interior, the former comprising a Nissan specific grille, as hinted by the original teaser image last year, and what appears to be model unique headlights and different wheel arches. Teaser image of the first Renault-based new Nissan SUV. Image: Nissan While no interior images were obtained, anticipated changes are likely to be minor. Engine conundrum Up front, the line-up of engines will mirror those of the Duster, though in accordance with the options available on the Dacia Duster in Europe, different in displacement and power. Dacia Duster lineage will have two additional models. Image: Dacia As a comparison, the Dacia can be had with a 1.2-litre mild-hybrid turbo-petrol or a self-charging 1.6-litre hybrid, while the Renault substitutes the later with the normal 1.3-litre turbo-petrol co-developed with Daimler. Renault-badged version of the Dacia Duster will soon wear the Nissan badge, once again. Image: Renault In India, reports have alleged that Nissan could retain the Terrano name used on the rebadged first generation Duster, however, nothing has yet been approved. Remaining pair Besides the Duster, the new Boreal will also morph into a Nissan and debut next year with seven-seats below the X-Trail. Based on the Dacia Bigster, the Boreal will provide the base for the second new Nissan SUV. Image: Renault Spun-off of the Dacia Bigster, both the Duster and Boreal models have been approved for South Africa, the former replacing the Qashqai, while the latter will take-up station below the X-Trail instead of succeeding it. Renault South Africa has since confirmed to that the Boreal is being investigated for South Africa in either 2026 or 2027. '[These] products will be Nissan's answer to the Chinese competition in South Africa. We believe [India] is a good source to bring competitive and technologically advanced response to the market,' Nissan Managing Director for South Africa and Independent African Markets, Maciej Klenkiewicz, told the media at the unveiling of the facelift Magnite in Cape Town last year. Nissan-badged Renault Triber has, for the moment, not been approved for South Africa. Image: Nissan Not destined for South Africa, for now, the third model will be based on the Renault Triber and could serve as the spiritual replacement for the Livina/Grand Livina should sales receive approval. More later At its stands though, on the pair of SUVs has been confirmed and with development in India still taking place, expect details and more spy images to gather throughout the remainder of 2025. NOW READ: Indian pre-production of first South Africa-bound new Nissan starts
Time of India
29-07-2025
- Automotive
- Time of India
Not just the Ambanis! 8 Indians who own Rolls-Royce Cullinan worth Rs 10+ crore—from Ajay Devgn to Allu Arjun
Rolls-Royce cars are considered one of the world's most expensive vehicles. While the Rolls-Royce Cullinan is more than just an SUV, it's a segment of unmatched luxury, status, and bespoke craftsmanship. The ultra-luxury SUV is available in India with a price range starting at Rs 10.50 crore (ex-showroom) for the Series II model, according to Autocar India. While the Black Badges Series II variant is priced higher, reaching about Rs 12.25 crore. But do you know who those 10 high-profile Indians who proudly own a multi-crore Cullinan are? Let's take a look. Top 10 Indians with the Rolls‑Royce Cullinan Mukesh Ambani: India's richest man, Mukesh Ambani, owns multiple Rolls-Royce Cullinan SUVs, including a bulletproof Black Badge edition. The Indian billionaire, who is the chairman and managing director of Reliance Industries, owns the Tuscan Sun-coloured luxury SUV. However, according to reports cited by CarBlog India, the businessman got a Rs 1 crore paint job on this car. Nita Ambani: According to Car Blog India, Nita Ambani, wife of Mukesh Ambani, got this luxury SUV as a gift from her husband, and the most striking thing about this Cullinan is that it has a Tuscan Sunshade in orange colour. Moreover, it is a Black Badge edition, which costs around Rs 10 crore. Isha Ambani: The next in the list is Isha Ambani, the daughter of Mukesh Ambani, who is often spotted in a Rolls-Royce Cullinan during her public appearances. As per CarBlogIndia, her Cullinan is covered in a unique wrap whose colour changes depending on the amount of light falling on it, depending on the angle of view. Anant Ambani: The next is also a member of the Ambani family, the youngest son of Mukesh Ambani, Anant Ambani. Anant recently got married in July 2024 and owns the Cullinan in a golden shade. Shah Rukh Khan: The Badshah, or King Khan, of Bollywood owns a Rolls-Royce Cullinan Badge finished in white colour. The luxury SUV is valued at nearly Rs 10 crore in India. The car is a perfect reflection of the superstar's larger-than-life persona and exquisite taste in automobiles. #Pathaan's new Rolls-Royce Cullinan Black Badge ❤️🔥# Ajay Devgn: The next in the list is another Bollywood icon, Ajay Devgn, who is one of those who loves luxury cars. He owns a black Rolls-Royce Cullinan that starts with a price range of Rs 10.50 crore, and the top model range goes up to Rs 12.25 crore in India, as per CarWale. Allu Arjun: South Indian star Allu Arjun owns a Cullinan estimated at over Rs 10.50 crore, and the top model price goes up to Rs 12.25 crore. The actor boasts an insane fan following after his last few movies. During one public event, he made his entry in a swanky white Rolls-Royce Cullinan luxury SUV. Bhushan Kumar: The next prominent celebrity in India, Bhushan Kumar. He is one of the biggest movie producers in the country and an automobile freak. However, he has mostly been spotted in his red Cullinan during public appearances. Yusuf Ali: The owner of Lulu Group, Yusuf Ali, also owns a Rolls-Royce Cullinan. Apart from this, Ali owns tonnes of other luxurious malls in India, as well as abroad. He has the Cullinan in India and in Dubai. Vivek Oberoi: Recently, in 2024, Saathiya actor Vivek Oberoi purchased a Rolls-Royce Cullinan, reportedly worth ₹12 crore. He also shared a video on his social media that showed the car's delivery. Naval Kishore Singh: Billionaire businessman and Alkem Laboratories owner, Naval Kishore Singh, has recently added a brand-new Rolls-Royce Cullinan SUV, worth several crores, to his collection, becoming the latest Indian to join the elite group of Cullinan owners. FAQs Q. What is the starting price of the Rolls‑Royce Cullinan in India? According to AutoCar India, the Cullinan Series II is offered in two trims in India: Standard edition: It starts at approx. Rs 10.33 crore (ex-showroom). Black Badge variant: It is priced from around Rs 11.92 crore (ex-showroom, before options). What powers the Cullinan, and how does it rank among SUV engines in India? The standard model's 6.75-litre twin-turbocharged V12 petrol engine produces roughly 571 horsepower and 850 Nm, while the Black Badge version can produce up to 600 horsepower and 900 Nm. Notably, there are just two V12 SUVs available in India, and the Cullinan is one of them. For the latest and more interesting auto news, keep reading Indiatimes Auto.
Time of India
18-06-2025
- Automotive
- Time of India
'This is my time': Ajith Kumar reflects on racing dreams, criticism, and his relentless spirit
Actor Ajith Kumar , one of the biggest stars of Tamil cinema, has not only made his mark in films but has also made a serious place for himself in the world of motorsports. Last year, he launched a professional racing team, "Ajith Kumar Racing," and since then he has participated in high-profile races like the Dubai 24H Dheeraj and the Mugello 12H of Italy. Ajith 's transition to motorcyclists, while dividing his year between films and racing, has achieved significant success in just one year, strengthening his commitment to his passion. Ajith Kumar on early career criticism In a recent interview with Autocar India, Ajith opened up about his journey and critics. 'I don't measure myself based on how others perceive me. 'I aim to be a winner on my own terms,' he said firmly. Reflecting on his early days in cinema, he recalled facing criticism for his Tamil diction, which carried an English accent. 'I worked hard on my weakness instead of ignoring it. Now, the results are visible,' he said. Drawing parallels between acting and racing, he added, 'Like films, injuries are part of racing. But I'm focused. I learn fast. This is my time. I won't step back.' Ajith Kumar's ultimate goal Ajith, now 54 years old, believes age is no barrier to dreams. 'I want to continue racing as long as I can. With God's grace, my health is good. My team and family support me. I've seen racers active even after 60—why not me?' he said, determined and confident about his racing future. Speaking about his goals, Ajith said sports instill discipline beyond academics. His dream is to establish 'Ajith Kumar Racing' as a dominant force in endurance racing. 'Racing is not just a hobby. I love it deeply. My aim is to take my team to unmatched heights,' he concluded.
&w=3840&q=100)
Business Standard
03-06-2025
- Automotive
- Business Standard
Harrier.ev launched with 627-km range at ₹21.49 lakh; bookings start Jul 2
Tata Motors on Tuesday officially launched the the all-electric variant of its popular SUV. The vehicle aims to combine off-road capability, high performance and cutting-edge technology for India's growing electric vehicle market. The launch represents a significant milestone for the company as it expands its EV portfolio. According to a report by Autocar India, the Tata will have a starting price of ₹21.49 lakh (introductory). Full pricing and variant details will be announced closer to the booking date. 627-km MIDC range and rapid charging enhance long-distance capability The Tata is MIDC-certified for a range of up to 627 km on a single charge, making it suitable for extended road travel. Its fast-charging system can provide up to 250 km of range in just 15 minutes. Integrated with Mappls Auto EV navigation, the vehicle also assists drivers in locating nearby charging stations in real time. Bookings for the will officially open on 2 July. delivers 0–100 km/h in 6.3 seconds with AWD powertrain The accelerates from 0 to 100 km/h in just 6.3 seconds, placing it among the fastest electric SUVs in its category. It features a dual motor Quad Wheel Drive (QWD) system that powers all four wheels and includes Drift and Boost modes to enhance driving dynamics. The SUV is equipped with six terrain modes, including Sand and Rock Crawl, along with a customisable option. An Off-road Assist function offers low-speed cruise control for navigating challenging trails. Tata Motors sees record sales and strong EV momentum in 2024 In calendar year 2024, Tata Motors recorded sales of 600,915 vehicles, marking a 3.5 per cent increase from 587,713 units in 2023. This represents the company's fourth consecutive year of record-high annual sales. The automaker introduced several new models during the year, including the Tata Curvv, and strengthening its position in both the electric and internal combustion engine (ICE) segments. Tata Motors also reported a 77 per cent rise in CNG vehicle sales, surpassing 120,000 units. SUV sales climbed 19 per cent, with the Punch alone contributing over 200,000 units to the annual tally. In December 2024, Tata briefly secured the second spot in monthly sales rankings by delivering 44,289 units, reflecting a modest year-on-year growth of 1 per cent.
