Pioneer India launches Detachable Multi-purpose Tablet-combo

Michelin India To Route Imported PC Tyre Stock Through Priority Partners

Pioneer India, a subsidiary of Japanese giant, Pioneer Corporation, launches Smart Unit Receiver SDA-835TAB and SPH-T20BTat a price of INR 33,890as a combo. This latest cutting-edge in-car infotainment system is meant for those who enjoy quality entertainment on-the-go.

Known for its advanced in-car entertainment systems the main features of Pioneer that set this multimedia entertainment system apart are its genuine Android OS, magnificent display, audio quality, high-end safety features, and plethora of navigation and entertainment apps ready to download.

In any car, an advanced entertainment system that offers superior audio quality is a must-have feature. The smart unit receiver has these features and more. The SDA-835TAB tablet has eight inch high-resolution capacitive screen display and Pioneer’s audiophile sound quality. This is the first of its kind multi-purpose tablet which can be used both inside and outside the vehicle making it more versatile in its use. The tablet has certified access to genuine Android OS and comes with pre-installed apps such as Google Maps, YouTube, Gmail, Pioneer’s unique app ‘Pioneer Smart Sync app’ and more. These apps can be updated regularly as long as the gadget is connected to a network. So besides the usual radio and Bluetooth connectivity to play music, users now have freedom to use music streaming apps and more. All one needs to do is connect the tablet with SPH-T20BT receiver through Bluetooth to use it like a regular in-car infotainment unit.

The tablet can be used from back seat of car for entertainment during long drives. The 4000mAh battery ensures long hours of uninterrupted entertainment while the ARM Quad core Cortex-A7assures high-speed.

Hideaki Ishii San, Managing Director, said, “Pioneer is a trusted name globally when it comes to in-car audio and video products. Innovation is the name of the game for us and we are sure that with these unique and first-of-its-kind products we have given our customers yet another reason to cheer. We have been rolling out competitive products over the years and with the SDA-835TAB and SPH-T20BT we have raised the bar several notches higher.” (MT)

Maruti Suzuki India Inaugurates 5,000th Arena Service Point

Maruti Suzuki Arena

Maruti Suzuki India, the country’s largest passenger vehicle manufacturer, has attained another milestone of inaugurating its 5,000th Arena Service touchpoint.

The landmark facility, located in Coimbatore, is spread across 3,200 sqmt. It features four service bays and four bays dedicated to body repair, equipped with advanced tools to offer complete service solutions.

The new service point contributes to Maruti Suzuki's overall network, which now comprises over 5,640 service touchpoints across 2,818 cities. This extensive network includes Arena and Nexa workshops, as well as specialised formats such as Rural workshops and Service-on-Wheels. In Tamil Nadu alone, the brand now has over 400 authorised service touchpoints.

Hisashi Takeuchi, Managing Director & CEO, Maruti Suzuki India, said, “At Maruti Suzuki, we believe that easy access to trusted service is fundamental to a hassle-free ownership experience. Customers value proximity, affordability, genuine parts and above all, the speed at which we resolve issues. Our expanding service network ensures faster, more reliable care, wherever they are. It is our consistent endeavour to be by the side of our customers and we extend our heartfelt gratitude to all our dealer partners for their continued support in building this robust and expansive service network. We plan to continuously expand our network in future as well. In FY2024-25, we opened 460 service touchpoints under Arena and Nexa channels, and in FY2025-26, we plan to add a total of 500 service workshops to our network.”

Maruti Suzuki has demonstrated robust service capacity, having serviced over 27 million vehicles in the FY2024-25 – the highest number ever recorded by the company in a single financial year. The overall service network is capable of servicing more than 30 million customer vehicles annually.

Shell Launches New Range Of Lubricants For Automotive Aftermarket

Shell Lubricants

Shell Lubricants India has launched three new lubricant products, developed using technology, to serve customer needs across passenger cars, two-wheelers and pickup trucks. The new products reinforce Shell’s commitment to technical excellence.

The new products include:

  • Shell Spirax S4 GX 75W90: This product is the only Shell Branded product globally in this viscosity and is India’s first Shell Branded synthetic gear oil under the Spirax category. It is designed for manual transmissions in passenger cars and LCVs. The company claims that it provides gearbox protection, smoother gear shifts and cost savings. It is approved under API GL-4 and ZF-TE-ML-08 standards and is compatible with OEMs including Suzuki, Hyundai and Tata Motors. It comes in 1L (INR 540) and 2.5L (INR 1300) packaging.
  • Shell Advance AX6 5W30: Targeted at the growing BS VI scooter market, this oil provides 360-degree protection for daily commuters. Formulated with synthetic technology, it offers performance under urban conditions, including traffic and frequent stop-start riding. The 600 ml bottle is made from 100 percent post-consumer recycled (PCR) material, is priced at INR 355 and is available nationwide.
  • Shell Rimula Pick-Up: This is an engine oil crafted and tested specifically for pickup trucks navigating city traffic, offering performance and extended drain intervals. The range is available for both BS IV and BS VI engines in 5L and 7L packaging, launched nationwide.

Shell Lubricants recently launched the new Shell Helix Ultra, engineered to deliver performance and protection. It uses Shell’s PurePlus Technology – which converts natural gas into 99.5 percent pure base oil – to offer up to 1.8 percent more engine power, 3.4 percent improved responsiveness and 100 percent engine power retention.

Kia India Hits 100th Green Workshop Milestone

Kia Green Workshop

Kia India, one of the leading passenger vehicle manufacturers in the country, has inaugurated its 100th Green Workshop, signalling a major commitment to sustainable aftersales service. The milestone facility, located at Bright Kia in Kanpur, follows the first Green Workshop launched in Rohtak in 2023.

The company's Green Workshop initiative is a key part of its environmental efforts and aims to expand the network to over 150 workshops by 2026.

Kia's Green Workshops are fitted with advanced sustainability measures, including rainwater harvesting, natural lighting and motion-sensor systems for greater energy efficiency. They also utilise effluent treatment plants, steam wash systems to cut water usage and waterless urinals.

Crucially, the 100 workshops collectively generate 7.9 MW of solar power. This renewable energy capacity allows Kia India to prevent nearly 9,000 metric tons of CO2 emissions each year, which the company states is equivalent to the absorption power of 450,000 mature trees. Kia has also implemented a comprehensive recycling programme for automotive waste such as used batteries and oil.

Atul Sood, Senior Vice-President, Sales & Marketing, Kia India, said, “Achieving the milestone of 100 Green Workshops within a short span of two years underscores Kia India’s commitment to building a sustainable mobility ecosystem. Each workshop brings us closer to a world where progress doesn’t come at the planet’s cost. This initiative, alongside our portfolio of three EVs, is a significant reflection of our continued efforts to reduce environmental impact, enhance operational efficiency, and shape a cleaner, smarter mobility for our future generations.”

CarXpert To Expand Into Western India, Starting With Gujarat

CarXpert

Delhi-NCR-based CarXpert, a multi-brand car service network, is set to expand its footprint into the western Indian market, with a primary focus on Gujarat. The move aims to upgrade local, independent garages into professional service centres by providing them with modern tools, training and brand recognition.

The company's business model is designed to help local mechanics professionalise their operations. CarXpert provides standardised processes, diagnostic technology and skill development programs, allowing garages to offer more reliable service and build long-term customer trust.

Rachit Dhawan, Head of Department at CarXpert, said, “We are happy to announce our expansion plans to other parts of India. Gujarat is one of the growing markets for job creation. Many of these workshops operate without modern tools, standardised systems, or access to training. We are working to change this by giving these workshops an opportunity to become part of an organised, trusted network.”

With over 50 centres already operational in locations across northern India, the company's expansion into Gujarat will cater to the state's growing number of vehicle owners.