Auto Roundup | BMW 620d M Sport Signature, Volkswagen EV, Kia Seltos, other top newsmakers this week

Auto roundup: This week marked significant strides in the automotive sector both in India and worldwide. Commencing with the unveiling the luxury car, BMW  620d M Sport Signature and ended with Maruti Suzuki's major announcement regarding its best-selling vehicles, Maruti Baleno and Maruti WagonR, the week was packed with noteworthy events. Amidst all this, there were notable car launches, debuts, price adjustments, and more.

Here's a rundown of the key highlights from the week:

BMW launched 620d M Sport Signature in India

BMW introduces the 620d M Sport Signature to India at Rs 78.90 lakh (ex-showroom). Produced locally in Chennai, this luxurious vehicle promises top-notch performance and features.

Performance and Features:

• Powered by a 2-litre 4-cylinder diesel engine, delivering 190hp and 400Nm torque.
• 8-speed steptronic automatic transmission for swift acceleration (0 to 100kmph in 7.9 seconds).
• Driving modes include Comfort, Comfort+, Sport, Eco Pro, and Adaptive.

Exterior:

• Features BMW laserlight-based headlight units and a signature kidney grille.
• Coupe design with a distinctive sloping roofline.
• Available in metallic paintworks like Mineral White, Tanzanite Blue, Skyscraper Grey, and Carbon Black.

Interior:

• Offers fully electric front seats with memory function and 'Dakota' leather upholstery.
• Panoramic sunroof, ambient lighting, and Harman Kardon surround sound system with 16 speakers.
• Rear-seat Entertainment Professional for added comfort.

Technology and Safety:

• Equipped with BMW Live Cockpit Professional, 3D navigation, and BMW Virtual Assistant.
• Safety features include six airbags, attentiveness assistance, ABS with brake assist, and ISOFIX child seat mounting.

Bookings is now open at all BMW dealerships nationwide.

Also Read: BMW launches 620d M Sport Signature in India, check price

Volkswagen launched ID.4 to initiate electrification drive in India

German automaker Volkswagen is set to embark on its electrification journey in India with the introduction of its electric car, the ID.4, later this year. This move aligns with the company's global commitment to mass electrification, marking a significant step in the Indian automotive market. Volkswagen anticipates a 5-7 per cent growth in the Indian passenger vehicles segment this year, aiming for a substantial 10-15 per cent growth for itself.

Michael Mayer, Executive Director Sales International Operations, Volkswagen Passenger Cars, emphasized that the ID.4 launch in India is part of the brand's broader strategy towards electrification. The company's global leadership in this domain underscores its dedication to initiatives like developing charging infrastructure and battery recycling, as well as advancing digitalization and connectivity solutions.

Also Read: Volkswagen to kick off electrification journey in India later this year with ID.4 launch

Schneider Electric to invest Rs 3,200 crore, eyes India manufacturing hub

Energy management giant, Schneider Electric, plans to invest Rs 3,200 crore by 2026, positioning India as its manufacturing hub for both domestic and export markets. With an initial Rs 100 crore investment, the company recently inaugurated a Bengaluru facility dedicated to producing cooling solutions for data centers. Deepak Sharma, President of Schneider Electric India, disclosed plans to establish manufacturing facilities across Maharashtra, Karnataka, Gujarat, Telangana, Tamil Nadu, West Bengal, Uttarakhand, and Odisha. Presently, the company operates 30 factories in India, including the newly inaugurated cooling solutions plant.

Also Read: Schneider Electric to invest Rs 3,200 crore to make India manufacturing hub

Volvo XC40 Recharge's booking opened

Bookings for the latest Volvo XC40 Recharge variant are now open for Rs 1 lakh on the Volvo Car India website. Assembled in India, this electric vehicle boasts a range of 475km (WLTP) and 592km (ICAT) on a single charge. With 238hp power and 420Nm torque, it promises both performance and efficiency. Volvo promises an 8-year battery warranty and standard wall box charger. Check out key specs below:

• Power: 238hp
• Torque: 420Nm
• Battery: 69kWh Lithium-Ion
• Acceleration: 0-100 km/h in 7.3 seconds
• WLTP Range: 475km
• ICAT Range: 592km
• One Pedal Drive option
• Leather-free interiors
• Advanced Driver Assist Systems
• Google Built-in
• Advanced Air Purifier System
• Reversing Camera
• Adaptive Cruise Control
• 7 airbags
• Wireless Charging for smartphone

Also Read: Volvo XC40 Recharge variant booking opens: Check booking amount, range, features, specs

Tesla raises Model Y prices across Europe

Tesla has announced an upcoming price hike of approximately 2,000 euros ($2,177) for its Model Y electric vehicles in several European countries, starting March 22. This decision mirrors a recent increase in prices for all Model Y cars in the United States by $1,000, effective April 1. The adjustment aims to address manufacturing challenges and maintain profitability amidst seasonal fluctuations in demand. CEO Elon Musk highlighted the manufacturing dilemma, stressing the importance of continuous production efficiency. Tesla's margins have been impacted by a competitive price war, prompting a strategic shift towards its next-generation EV project, internally referred to as "Redwood."

Audi plans Euro 41 billion investment, 20 new models by 2025

Audi is stepping up its game in the automotive industry with plans to introduce over 20 new models by 2025. Gernot Dollner, CEO of Audi AG, revealed this bold vision, aiming to electrify all major segments by 2027. With a hefty Euro 41 billion investment, Audi is set to develop Internal Combustion Engines (ICEs), Plug-in Hybrid Electric Vehicles (PHEVs), Battery Electric Vehicles (BEVs), and digitalization initiatives. Among the upcoming releases are the Audi Q6 e-tron, A6 e-tron, and A5, with a focus on expanding the electric vehicle lineup. 

Also Read: Audi reveals plan to invest Euro 41 billion, launch 20 new models by 2025

'Made in India' Honda Elevate launched in Japan

Honda is broadening its global presence with the introduction of its popular SUV, Elevate, into the Japanese market. Originating from India and distributed worldwide, this vehicle will be marketed in Japan under the moniker WR-V.

Takuya Tsumura, President and CEO of Honda Cars India, expressed pride in bringing the Honda Elevate to Japan under the WR-V brand, highlighting its remarkable success in the Indian market.

Since its global debut in India in September of the previous year, Honda Elevate has rapidly gained attention and accolades. Within a span of six months, the company has successfully sold 30,000 units of this SUV. Originally introduced as the WR-V in December 2023, the vehicle has now made its official debut in Japan.

Also Read: Honda WR-V: Honda launches Made in India Elevate in Japan, know more

Citroen teamed up with BluSmart for 4,000 e-C3 electric fleet deployment

French automaker Citroen has joined forces with BluSmart Mobility, a ride-hailing and EV charging service, to expand their electric vehicle fleet. Under a memorandum of understanding (MoU), the partnership aims to introduce 4,000 e-C3 units into the market. The initiative kicked off with 125 Citroen e-C3 vehicles dispatched from BluSmart's EV charging hub in Bengaluru.

The new Citroen e-C3, an all-electric compact SUV, will complement BluSmart's existing fleet of over 7,000 EVs.

Features
A range of 320 kilometers (as per ARAI standards)
Advanced fast charging technology for a full charge in under an hour
Citroen's Advanced Comfort Program for an enhanced riding experience, featuring intuitive technology and ample space
With a spacious interior and a sizable 315-liter boot, the e-C3 meets the luggage needs of travelers, especially catering to airport transfers—a significant segment for BluSmart.

Kia India set to raise vehicle prices by up to 3% from April 1

Kia India announced on Thursday its decision to implement a price increase of up to 3% across its range of vehicles, effective April 1, 2024.

The move comes in response to the ongoing surge in commodity prices and supply chain-related inputs, as stated by the automaker, which markets popular models such as Seltos, Sonet, and Carens, among others.

This adjustment represents the first price revision by the company this year, noted Kia India. Reflecting on the decision, Hardeep Singh Brar, National Head of Sales and Marketing at Kia India, emphasized the company's commitment to delivering premium and technologically advanced products to its customers.

Brar explained, "However, due to the persistent rise in commodity prices, adverse exchange rates, and increasing input costs, we find it necessary to implement a partial price adjustment."

Despite the price hike, Kia India aims to cushion the impact by absorbing a significant portion of the increase, ensuring that customers can continue to enjoy their favorite Kia vehicles without enduring a substantial financial burden, added Brar.

With nearly 1.16 million units sold in both Indian and overseas markets to date, Kia continues to maintain a strong presence in the automotive industry.

Also Read: Kia India to hike vehicle prices by up to 3% from April 1

Saurabh Vatsa gets appointed as Managing Director of Nissan Motor India

Nissan Motor India has announced the appointment of Saurabh Vatsa as Managing Director, starting April 1, 2024. Vatsa, who previously served as the company's Deputy Managing Director since January 15, will take over from Rakesh Srivastava upon his retirement on March 31, 2024.

In a statement, Nissan revealed that Vatsa will report to Frank Torres, President of Nissan India Operations and Region Divisional Vice President of Business Transformation (AMIEO). Torres expressed confidence in Vatsa's leadership, stating that his experience and insights will drive the company's next phase of growth in India.

Under the Renault-Nissan Alliance, Nissan has pledged an investment of Rs 5,300 crore in India and plans to introduce a range of new products for the Indian market as part of its transformation plan for 2023. These strategic initiatives reflect Nissan's commitment to business transformation and its product pipeline tailored for the Indian market.

Also Read: Nissan Motor India names Saurabh Vatsa as MD

Maruti Suzuki initiates recall of 16,000 Baleno and WagonR models due to faulty fuel pump motor

Maruti Suzuki has announced a recall of 11,851 Baleno units and 4,190 WagonR units manufactured between July 30, 2019, and November 1, 2019, citing a potential defect in the Fuel Pump Motor component. The company highlights the rare possibility of engine stalling or starting issues arising from this fault.

Also Read: Maruti Suzuki recalls 16,000 Baleno and WagonR units for THIS faulty part: Check if your car is eligible for recall

Affected vehicle owners can expect prompt communication from authorized Maruti Suzuki dealer workshops for the replacement of the faulty part, at no extra cost. This proactive step underscores the company's commitment to ensuring customer safety and maintaining optimal vehicle performance.

In case you missed it, here are major headlines from the previous week (Hyundai Creta, Honda Amaze & more)