SMK, the premium brand of Studds Accessories Ltd, launched the SMK Cygnus helmet and a new collection of riding gear at India Bike Week 2025. The company, part of the world’s largest helmet manufacturer by volume, introduced several models and a complete riding jacket line-up following their debut at EICMA.

The SMK Cygnus features a 180deg rotating chin bar, a flip-back innovation that allows the helmet to convert between full-face and open-face modes. This mechanism enables the helmet to sit differently to suit various postures, such as an upright position for cruisers or a tucked position for sport riding.

The helmet is one of the few in India with P/J Certification, allowing it to be used safely in both open and closed positions. It is constructed with an Energy Impact Resistant Thermoplastic (EIRT) shell and a multi-density EPS liner. Features include a wide anti-scratch visor with Pinlock MaxVision @120, an integrated sun visor, a double D-ring fastener, and a removable hypoallergenic liner. The Cygnus is expected to retail between INR 17,000 and 20,000 in the coming months.

SMK also announced the arrival of the Ares and Nova models. The Ares includes a detachable sun peak and sun visor, while the Nova features an eyeglass-friendly harness and an optically corrected field of vision. These models will be priced at INR 6,350 and INR 3,900 respectively.

For urban and touring needs, the brand introduced the Delta City and Delta Tour demi-jet helmets:

Delta City: A lightweight helmet for commuting with an internal clear visor and moisture-wicking fabric.

Delta Tour: Designed for long distances with an external dual visor, contoured cheek pads, and pockets for Bluetooth communication systems. Prices for the Delta series start from INR 3,299.

The brand displayed its full riding jacket collection, all of which are CE Level A certified. The Infinity Rush and Gladiator models are designed for summer with mesh panels and waterproof liners. The Apex Adventura is a 3/4-length touring jacket with thermal liners and a hydration pack system. For women, the Athenova provides a winter solution with waterproofing and ergonomic styling.

Sidhartha Bhushan Khurana, Managing Director, STUDDS Accessories, said: “India Bike Week has always been about celebration of the evolving spirit of riding in India. As demand grows for premium motorcycles and high-quality riding gear, SMK has been at the forefront of leading this shift with our commitment to premium design, advanced safety and superior comfort, for diverse riding styles. We are proud to introduce our new helmet range, led by the Cygnus, along with refreshed graphics and an expanded jacket collection. The overwhelming response from riders today further validates SMK preference as a premium helmet Brand in India.”

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Maruti Suzuki India, the country’s largest passenger vehicle manufacturer, has established a new corporate benchmark by servicing over 28.4 million vehicles across its domestic network in FY2025–26. This represents the highest annual service load handled by the carmaker since its inception.

The volume throughput was sustained by an expansive retail and aftersales infrastructure consisting of 5,926 service touchpoints across India. To accommodate evolving powertrain architectures and growing volume requirements, Maruti Suzuki India has outlined a long-term network expansion roadmap targeting the establishment of approximately 8,000 active service touchpoints by FY2030–31.

Hisashi Takeuchi, Managing Director & CEO, Maruti Suzuki India, said, “Achieving our highest‑ever annual service load is a significant milestone and reflects the trust customers place in Maruti Suzuki’s after‑sales capabilities. I would also like to thank our channel partners for their continued commitment and tireless efforts, which have been instrumental in achieving this milestone.”

“High-quality after-sales service is essential for maintaining vehicle health and ensuring optimal performance throughout its lifecycle. It plays a key role in building long-term customer confidence and strengthening brand loyalty. Since our inception, we have consistently believed that our service footprint should remain ahead of sales. As vehicle technologies advance and customer expectations continue to evolve, we remain committed to expanding our service footprint and introducing innovative service formats to address diverse customer needs more efficiently. By FY 2030-31, we aim to establish about 8,000 service touchpoints,” he added.

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STUDDS Accessories has launched the Helios Effect, a new graphic decal edition of its flagship full-face helmet at INR 3,445. The model joins the existing Helios lineup, which includes the Unicolor, D1 Asphalt, D2 Circuit and Superman Edition variants.

The Helios platform was initially developed for Southeast Asian markets – debuting first in the Philippines, before expanding to Colombia, Mexico and subsequently India. The new ‘Effect’ variant updates the visual design with a hard-edged, polygonal graphic pattern inspired by modern sports car panels and performance motorcycle fairings.

The helmet is constructed from an injection-moulded, high-impact engineering thermoplastic shell paired with an integrated rear aerodynamic spoiler to manage wind resistance. The complete assembly weighs 1,400 grams.

Safety and impact management are handled by a regulated-density Expanded Polystyrene (EPS) inner liner designed to distribute impact forces across distinct zones. The helmet carries dual safety compliance certification, meeting the Bureau of Indian Standards ISI index (IS 4151) and the United States Department of Transportation (DOT) FMVSS No. 218 standards.

The Helios Effect features a silicone-coated dual-visor system that pairs a clear outer visor with a drop-down, smoked inner sun shield. The outer visor is fitted with an AntiFog100 film designed to prevent condensation for up to 100 seconds. Visor removal and cleaning are handled via a toolless, one-touch quick-release mechanism.

The helmet incorporates a front-to-rear dynamic ventilation network, featuring intake and exhaust ports integrated directly into the shell moulding to maintain uniform airflow.

The interior design includes hypoallergenic lining, cataphote retro-reflective padding, eyeglass EasyFit, speaker pockets and retention system.

The variant is being rolled out across traditional brick-and-mortar dealerships and dedicated STUDDS retail outlets, with online marketplace distribution currently in development. It is available in three sizing options – Medium (57 cm), Large (58 cm) and Extra-Large (60 cm) across matte and gloss treatments.

The product launches with six distinct graphic colour configurations – Black & Chameleon Blue, Black & Red, Black Grey & Red, Black White & Red, Black & Grey and Black Blue & White.

Sidhartha Bhushan Khurana, Managing Director, STUDDS Accessories, said, "The Helios has been an important model for us, both in international markets where it first found its audience and in India where it has built genuine momentum. It was designed for riders who want a full-face helmet that does not compromise on features or protection and that is what it has consistently delivered. The Helios Effect gives that same product a more expressive graphic identity."

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Hindustan Petroleum Corporation (HPCL) and Tata Motors have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to launch a pilot project for the collection and recycling of used automotive lubricants.

The partnership seeks to establish an organised collection and transport system for used lubricants, which are classified as hazardous waste. Under the agreement, the collected waste oil will be sent to registered facilities for re-refining into base oil. This initiative is designed to support compliance with India’s Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) regulations and reduce the environmental hazards associated with improper oil disposal.

The pilot program will be introduced across selected states and will be monitored by a joint committee composed of representatives from both companies. HPCL will manage the aggregation and logistics of the waste oil through its established collection mechanisms. Tata Motors will utilise its network of over 4,500 sales and service touchpoints across the country to collect used lubricants from vehicles during maintenance.

Ch Srinivas, Executive Director of Lubes at HPCL, said, "Achieving true circularity in used oil begins with reintegrating re-refined base oil into finished lubricants. Our collaboration with Tata Motors is a significant step towards building a scalable model for used oil circularity and reducing the carbon footprint across operations."

Vikram Agrawal, Head of Parts and Services, Tata Motors, said, "Used automotive lubricant, if not handled responsibly, can cause long‑term environmental harm. Addressing this challenge calls for credible partners, clear processes and the ability to operate at scale. HPCL has been a trusted partner to Tata Motors across multiple dimensions, and this collaboration allows us to take a meaningful step towards organised and responsible recycling. With the combined strengths of both organisations, we believe this pilot can help establish a robust foundation for wider industry adoption."

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Automechanika Dubai, one of the leading automotive aftermarket exhibitions, has announced that its 2026 edition will move to the Dubai Exhibition Centre (DEC) at Expo City. The event is scheduled to take place from 10–12 November 2026, marking a shift from its previous venue to accommodate growth in the automotive aftermarket sector.

The relocation follows the 2025 edition, which recorded 50,308 visitors and 2,273 exhibitors. The new venue at DEC will offer 110,000 sqm of space, allowing for more international pavilions and product sections. The site is located near Al Maktoum International Airport and Jebel Ali Port, aligning with the D33 economic agenda to enhance Dubai's role as a logistics hub.

Market analysis suggests the Middle East and Africa automotive aftermarket will reach a value of USD 87 billion by 2034. This growth is linked to an increase in vehicle numbers, digitalisation of supply chains, and electrification. Several companies, including Hankook & Company, Hanon Systems and National Paints, have confirmed participation for the 2026 event.

Tommy Le, Show Manager, Messe Frankfurt Middle East, said, “Our move to the Dubai Exhibition Centre in 2026 is closely aligned with Dubai’s D33 economic agenda, which places trade, investment and global competitiveness at the heart of the Emirate’s long-term vision. As the future epicentre for mega events and international business gatherings, DEC represents the next phase of Dubai’s evolution as a world-leading exhibition and logistics hub.”

The 2026 exhibition will maintain its focus on sustainability, electrification, and innovation. Features such as Innovation4Mobility, Fleet FWD and the Automechanika Dubai Awards will continue at the new location to support knowledge exchange and industry partnerships.

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