With its Net|Zero|Now immediate action programme to mitigate climate change, Continental said it would offer its customers the opportunity to achieve carbon neutrality for their businesses. The company said in a statement that the aim of the programme is to enable customers with ambitious sustainability goals to neutralise the currently remaining “carbon backpack” of their relevant business with Continental.

This carbon backpack includes all emissions generated by processes at Continental and its suppliers as well as following end of use, but does not include the customer’s use phase and emissions.

The carbon backpack is offset by an equal quantity of so-called negative emissions. Net|Zero|Now complements the reduction measures implemented by the company to date and sustainable innovations such as the Conti GreenConcept tyre, which are designed to achieve carbon neutrality in line with the Paris climate agreement, the release said.

The focus of Net|Zero|Now is on Continental products and systems used in emission-free vehicles – from electric cars to hydrogen-powered buses and streetcars, it said.

Continental generated sales of almost EUR 1 billion with emission-free mobility in the past fiscal year. The company said the 10 highest-volume electric vehicle brands worldwide in 2021 all placed their trust in Continental technology. The programme means that for these vehicles, zero-emission mobility is already possible when it comes to the share of CO2 emissions attributable to Continental. Not only are they emission-free during their use, but the value chain relating to Continental is also carbon-neutral, it pointed out.

Besides, Net|Zero|Now will be immediately available for the combustion-engine-vehicle and industrial business, thus helping companies meet the increasingly ambitious carbon neutrality targets on the market, it said. 

Dr. Ariane Reinhart, Executive Board member for Human Relations and Sustainability at Continental, said, “2021 in particular, with its devastating floods and forest fires, showed that climate change mitigation needs to be accelerated. We must use every means available to implement measures faster. At the same time, we must seize the opportunities associated with this transformation together with our partners.” 

Continental said it sees Net|Zero|Now as an important blueprint for other companies to better achieve the goals of the 2015 Paris climate agreement alongside ambitious reduction efforts and neutralisation measures.

Reinhart added, “Reaching net zero is the benchmark here. And for that, we need appropriate economic incentives as well as more courage. To date, for example, carbon neutrality has not been taken into account in the VAT rate.” 

Continental said its approach with its immediate action programme for climate change mitigation relies on the principle of negative emissions and therefore goes beyond conventional carbon offsetting. In mathematical terms, this means that no more emissions are generated for each product in the supply chain than are removed again from the atmosphere, for example through reforestation. On balance, net zero is thus achieved and there is no longer any burden on the climate. The Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change, which focuses on accelerating carbon dioxide reductions, is increasingly recommending negative emissions in order to meet the goals of the Paris climate agreement. 

Continental said it has been working with recognised partners on high-quality and certified ecosystem restoration and reforestation projects to remove the appropriate quantities of CO2 from the atmosphere. Social aspects, the sustainability of reductions, such as safeguards in the event of forest fires, and other quality criteria also play an important role in the selection process, it pointed out.

The company’s sustainability ambition comprises four focus areas: carbon neutrality along Continental’s entire value chain, emission-free mobility and industry, a circular economy and responsible value chains. Continental aims to fulfill its ambition by 2050 at the latest.

Dr. Steffen Schwartz-Höfler, head of Sustainability at Continental, said, “The path to carbon-neutral mobility is both a marathon and numerous sprints. The actual reduction of emissions and our Net|Zero|Now neutralization measures are important complements to our goal of becoming carbon-neutral. Only with this combination can we successfully drive forward the transformation to a sustainable economy with the necessary speed.” (MT)

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PepsiCo India has announced the expansion of its green logistics network through three integrated initiatives aimed at reducing supply chain emissions. The centrepiece of the rollout is the launch of a dedicated EV Green Corridor on the Kosi-Pataudi route, developed in partnership with Kalyani Powertrain, a subsidiary of Bharat Forge.

The Kosi-Pataudi corridor will utilise eight 32-feet single-axle re-powered electric container trucks. This initiative is expected to cover approximately 480,000 electric kilometres annually. The model incorporates dedicated charging infrastructure, route optimisation and vehicle customisation to support linehaul freight.

Beyond the corridor, the company has implemented the following measures:

• Distributor Electrification: More than 400 distributor-linked vehicles have been converted to electric three-wheelers and four-wheelers for last-mile delivery.
• Urban Logistics: Over 80 CNG vehicles have been deployed in the National Capital Region (NCR) through logistics partners to lower the environmental footprint of urban distribution.

The initiatives were inaugurated in the presence of Laxmi Narayan Chaudhary, Cabinet Minister for Sugar Industry and Cane Development, Government of Uttar Pradesh. The project involves a ‘Partnership of Progress’ approach, coordinating with original equipment manufacturers (OEMs), finance providers and logistics firms including Vayudoot Road Carriers and New Trishul Transport Services.

Jagrut Kotecha, CEO, PepsiCo India & South Asia, said, "At PepsiCo India, sustainability is embedded in how we operate and grow. The launch of the EV Green Corridor on the Kosi-Pataudi route, together with the electrification of our distributor fleet and CNG deployment in NCR, reflects our commitment to building a supply chain that is cleaner, more efficient, and future-ready. Through our Partnership of Progress approach, we have brought together the right partners across technology, logistics, infrastructure, and finance to make this a reality. We believe this kind of ecosystem collaboration is what it takes to drive lasting change, not just for PepsiCo, but for the sector."

Pankaj Sonalkar, MD, Kalyani Powertrain, said, “This initiative demonstrates how electric vehicle technology can be effectively integrated into commercial logistics operations when supported by strong ecosystem collaboration. At Kalyani Powertrain, we remain committed to developing innovative and reliable mobility solutions that enable businesses to transition toward cleaner, more efficient transportation while supporting India’s broader decarbonization goals.”

Laxmi Narayan Chaudhary, added, “Initiatives like these reflect how industry can grow while remaining mindful of the environment. The Government is strongly focused on promoting electric mobility and encouraging cleaner modes of transportation, and this initiative is well aligned with that vision.”

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  - NEW TRISHUL TRANSPORT March 18, 2026 21:21 PM

  Great initiative and futuristic approach of pepsico and it’s team, Green india clean india.

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Audi has confirmed plans to introduce a new all-electric entry-level model, the A2 e-tron, which is scheduled for a global debut in the fall of 2026. This new addition to the lineup represents a strategic move to establish a presence in the compact class with a fully electric family of vehicles. Production of the A2 e-tron is slated to take place at Audi’s primary facility in Ingolstadt, reinforcing the manufacturer's dedication to evolving its domestic production capabilities. An initial design sketch has provided a glimpse of the vehicle's profile, hinting at its modern aesthetic.

The announcement was made by Audi CEO Gernot Döllner during the company’s Annual Media Conference, marking a significant step in the brand's journey towards an all-electric future. The decision to launch the A2 e-tron is a response to the expanding market for compact electric cars, particularly within major European urban centres. The model is designed to appeal to an international audience, with a focus on delivering a blend of practical city functionality, environmental sustainability, high energy efficiency and advanced digital features. It aims to make the brand more accessible and appealing to a new generation of customers seeking a contemporary entry point into premium electric mobility.

The choice of the A2 e-tron name is a conscious tribute to the original Audi A2, a vehicle celebrated for its forward-thinking approach to efficiency and urban transportation more than two decades ago. This new model seeks to continue that legacy, adapted for the current era of electrification. The vehicle will be a key component in refreshing and expanding Audi's lineup, which following a substantial rollout of new models in 2024 and 2025, is already one of the newest in the industry. This momentum is set to continue in 2026, with the A2 e-tron strategically positioned as the new entry point, complementing the full-size Audi Q9 at the upper end of the market. The upcoming premiere of the A2 e-tron will offer the first complete look at this new compact electric vehicle.

“We’ve listened. Our customers want electric mobility that impresses in everyday life. The A2 e-tron is our promise to deliver exactly that – efficient, compact and confident. We’re making entry into the electric Audi world easier and more relevant than ever. The A2 e-tron is crucial for our brand and also for our German home. With the production of an additional fully electric model family in Ingolstadt, we are securing jobs and delivering electric mobility ‘made in Germany’,” said Döllner.

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BYD India has announced the opening of bookings for the Sealion 7 First Anniversary Edition, a performance electric SUV. Reservations commenced on 17 March 2026 with a booking amount of INR 70,000.

The Sealion 7 is available in two variants – Sealion 7 Premium (82.56 kWh) at INR 4.94 million and Sealion 7 Performance (82.56 kWh) at INR 5.49 million. The first 1,100 customers who book by 30 April 2026 will receive an 11 kW home charger with installation and two years of free maintenance. This edition also features an 8-year or 150,000 km warranty on the Lithium Iron Phosphate (LFP) Low Voltage Battery, alongside a standard 8-year or 160,000 km warranty on the high-voltage battery.

The SUV utilises Cell-to-Body (CTB) technology, where the Blade Battery serves as a structural component of the chassis. It also features Intelligence Torque Adaptation Control (iTAC) to manage driving dynamics.

Performance and range figures (NEDC) include:

• Performance Variant: zero to 100 kmph in 4.5 seconds; 542 km range.
• Premium Variant: zero to 100 kmph in 6.7 seconds; 567 km range.

The exterior features ‘Ocean X’ styling, while the First Anniversary Edition introduces a Tahiti Blue interior. The cabin is equipped with a 15.6-inch rotating touchscreen, a 12-speaker Dynaudio system and Vehicle-to-Load (VTOL) capability, allowing the car to power external devices.

Since its introduction at Bharat Expo 2025, the Sealion 7 has recorded sales exceeding 2,500 units in India.

Rajeev Chauhan, Head of Electric Passenger Vehicles Business, BYD India, said, “The BYD Sealion 7 represents the next generation of performance electric SUVs, combining advanced technology, distinctive design, and everyday practicality. The First Anniversary Edition celebrates this journey while bringing additional value to our customers. With exclusive benefits for the first 1100 customers only and enhanced ownership advantages such as the 8-year Low Voltage Battery warranty, we aim to make premium electric mobility even more compelling for Indian consumers.”

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Bengaluru-based electric vehicle manufacturer Ather Energy has announced the expansion of its service network to 500 authorised centres nationwide. The company nearly doubled its service footprint in the 2026 fiscal year, increasing from 277 to 500 locations in alignment with its retail growth.

The expansion includes the deployment of Gold Service Centres, which feature standardised lounges and maintenance equipment. To reduce turnaround times, the company has implemented the ExpressCare initiative at 82 centres, allowing for periodic maintenance to be completed within 60 minutes.

Ather’s service network now covers Tier-1, Tier-2, and emerging cities, supporting the Ather 450 performance range and the Rizta family scooter. The company plans to increase its retail presence to 700 Experience Centres by the end of FY2026, up from 600 centres recorded on 31 December 2025.

Furthermore, as of 31 December 2025, the Ather Grid consists of 4,357 fast-charging points and neighbourhood chargers. This infrastructure is intended to provide comprehensive support for the increasing user base across India.

Ravneet Singh Phokela, Chief Business Officer, Ather Energy, said, “Crossing 500 service centres is an important milestone as we continue to scale our retail footprint and customer base across the country. From the early days, we have focused on building service capacity alongside sales because reliable after-sales support is a core part of the overall ownership experience. As our presence grows, having a strong service network becomes even more critical. Our focus is on ensuring that riders have access to trained technicians, transparent processes, and consistent service quality wherever they are.”

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