Czech automaker Skoda has revealed its new all-electric compact SUV the Elroq, which sits below the Enyaq SUV and becomes the second all-electric model that is built on the Volkswagen Group’s MEB platform.

The Elroq e-SUV will be available in four trims – SE, SE L, Edition and SportLine.

The SE 50 comes with a 55kWh (52kWh net) battery, and is capable of more than 370km of WLTP range. It features a 19-inch Proteus silver alloy wheels, LED headlights and LED rear lights. On the inside, it gets fabric and artificial leather upholstery, grey headlining and a two-spoke leather multifunction steering wheel. A large 13-inch touchscreen display, digital cockpit and single-zone climate control as standard is featured in the entry-level variant. A rear-view camera with rear parking sensors, traffic sign recognition and blind spot detection provide significant level of safety.

Coming to the SE L 60 models come with a larger 63kWh (59kWh net) battery as standard, which translates to over 402km WLTP range on a single charge. In addition it gets a two-spoke leather heated multifunction steering wheel with paddles for recuperation selection, heated front seats, satellite navigation and Skoda Connect - Infotainment Online and Remote Access (three years).

The SE L also gets dual zone climate control, drive mode select, front parking sensors and preparation for a tow bar. As with the SE model, the SE L also comes with a six-metre, 32A Type 2 charging cable as standard, along with rapid charging capability of up to 145kW when connected to a suitable DC rapid charger.

The Elroq Edition model comes with two battery options; 60 and 85; a 63kWh (59kWh net) pack that offers more than 402km of WLTP range, and a larger 82kWh (77kWh net) pack that can deliver up to 580km on the WLTP cycle, respectively.

In addition to the features offered on the SE L; it gets 19-inch Regulus anthracite alloy wheels, unique dark chrome roof rails and window surround and privacy glass with acoustic side windows.

Customers can also opt for travel assist plus, predictive adaptive cruise control with traffic jam assist, keyless entry, and wireless charging (15W) with cooling function. Elroq 85 models, which come with the larger 82kWh (77kWh net) battery, can also take advantage of 175kW DC rapid charging capability.

The flagship model of the range the Elroq SportLine also comes with two battery options 60 and 85; a 63kWh (59kWh net) or 82kWh (77kWh net) battery pack with WLTP ranges of up to 415km and 571km respectively. The SportLine models gets distinctive 20-inch Asterion black alloy wheels, matrix LED headlights, unique SportLine bumpers and gloss black roof rails, door mirrors and tailgate lettering.

On the inside, the SportLine models come with a bespoke Design Selection that features microsuede and artificial leather upholstery, carbon effect decorative inserts, front sports seats and a black headlining. A three-spoke artificial leather heated sports multifunction steering wheel with paddles for recuperation level selection is also fitted as standard.

The Elroq SportLine comes with progressive dynamic steering as standard (the 85 battery offers the addition of sports suspension as standard) while an electrically operated tailgate with kick activation and rear side airbags complete the specification.

While the company has yet not officially confirmed if the Elroq will make it to India, its Europe release and pricing have been confirmed.

Bengaluru-based electric vehicle company Ola Electric has commenced what could be seen as the next evolution of the automotive purchasing experience. The company has commenced pilot ‘HyperDelivery’ for its range of e-scooters, which will see customers get same-day delivery and registration for their EV.

HyperDelivery is being tested in Bengaluru, which will then be rolled out in a phased manner across India. HyperDelivery is being tested in Bengaluru, which will then be rolled out in a phased manner across India.

“We have significantly cut the processing time of registering the vehicles through AI-led automation and by moving the registration process completely in-house. We are excited to announce #HyperDelivery which has completely transformed the vehicle purchase and delivery experience in the automotive segment. With this we are ensuring a much smoother purchase experience for our customers, eliminating tedious purchase processes and longer delivery timelines,” said the company in a statement.

The EV maker shared that it is leveraging AI to automate the majority of the steps in a registration process, which eliminates the need for additional resources during the typical registration process.

Numeros Motors, a new-age original equipment manufacturer specialising in indigenous electric vehicles (EVs), has launched an NFT-backed loyalty programme in collaboration with Polygon. This first of its-kind initiative in the EV industry, integrating blockchain technology into customer engagement, will reward the first 1,000 buyers of Diplos with a unique digital collectible.

The NFT series ‘The Journey’ consists of 10 original artworks, each with 100 copies, that depict Diplos conquering the essence of India's many landscapes and the spirit of adventure that characterises the brand's motto, ‘Gets It Done’. Customers that own one join a limited group that prioritises performance, resiliency and progressive mobility. These NFTs, which are protected on Polygon's blockchain, provide exclusivity, authenticity and a more in-depth interaction with the brand.

This programme adds value to the Diplos experience by providing holders with access to premium products, invites to special events and priority customer service in addition to the NFT. These NFTs serve as a permanent remembrance of their role in Numeros Motors' history since they are soul-bound, meaning they are always connected to their original owners. In April of this year, Numeros Motors will also open its first store in Bangalore that is owned and run by the firm.

Shreyas Shibulal, Founder and CEO, Numeros Motors, said, "Diplos was built for those who move forward, challenge limits and embrace new possibilities. This NFT initiative is our way of recognising and celebrating our customers who believe in our vision. By integrating blockchain technology into customer engagement, we are creating an ownership experience that extends beyond the ride itself."

Sulajja Firodia Motwani, the Founder & CEO of Kinetic Green, was recently awarded an Honorary Doctorate in Literature by the Tilak Maharashtra Vidyapeeth Institute in Pune.

The recognition was conferred to Motwani for her contribution towards driving the adoption of electric vehicles in the country. An MBA from Carnegie Mellon University, Pennsylvania, USA, she has also worked towards promoting manufacturing in the country and has held notable positions at the Federation of Indian Chambers Of Commerce and Industry (FICCI), Society of Manufacturers of Electric Vehicles (SMEV) and Indian Federation of Green Energy (IFGE).

“I am deeply humbled and honoured to receive this recognition. The Firodia family has always by synonymous with strong values, nation building, self-reliance and a deep-rooted sense of nationalism. This acknowledgement inspires me to further serve for the greater good, a mission that we at Kinetic Green are constantly working towards,” said Motwani.

Škoda Auto has released a teaser clip of the all-new Elroq vRS, offering a first glimpse of both its exterior and interior. The world premiere is scheduled to take place digitally on 3 April 2025 and will be streamed live on Škoda’s official YouTube channel.

Following its digital unveiling, the all-electric compact SUV will make its public debut at Milan Design Week 2025 in the Padiglione d'Arte Contemporanea gallery in the Porta Venezia Design District. In keeping with Škoda's Be More Elroq campaign, the exhibition will showcase the Elroq vRS as the focal point of an experiential journey from 8 to 13 April 2025. The show will also feature the official launch of Botas sneakers, which are based on Škoda Modern Solid design principles, in honour of the company's 130th anniversary. These sneakers were created in collaboration with the Škoda Auto design team. Members of the Škoda team will wear one of the three versions that are planned for the occasion.