Q: What is your contribution to testing new energy vehicles – Battery Electric Vehicles and Hybrids? Please elaborate on the testing equipment you have for these vehicles?

Arora: As a B2B startup that enables its customers to maximize the capacity of the battery pack, and improve battery life and safety, we run elaborate tests on Battery Management Systems on all of our BMS designs. These BMSes have been deployed by ION’s customers on a fleet of batteries that go inside two / three-wheelers, passenger and commercial vehicles, and industrial electric vehicles.  Our cloud analytics platform, Edison, helps our customers visualize the data coming out of these tests and generate insights. In a bid to counter the challenge of costly industrial equipment, we have developed battery emulators, end of line testing equipment and HIL (Hardware-in-the-loop) setup, in house at about a minimal 10 percent cost of the commercial market rate. We have also built a gaming engine based simulation engine called the ‘Ghost Rider’ that runs simultaneously with our battery models. The simulation helps us integrate our BMS algorithms to vehicles models and monitor the performance of those models in life like situations.

Q: Can you tell us briefly about your overall portfolio of BMS testing equipment and a bit about your company?

Arora: Quality Assurance (QA) and Testing are the most important phases in the life cycle of BMS since the success of this phase dictates the level of safety and the management of the battery’s life. As a startup, we have adopted a lean and creative approach with our testing methodologies. We have a number of indigenously developed tools and software for testing of our batteries. Once the hardware design of the BMS is finalized, the prototypes are validated for their basic functionalities. The prototypes are further optimized based on the functionality and additional features that develop the hardware. When all the modifications are completed, the BMS is validated for its functionalities at different environmental conditions. Based on the data collected in the previous step an ‘operating range’ is defined.

Similar to the hardware, the software is also tested on the prototype BMS hardware. Based on the outcomes and new requirements, the iterations are made to tailor the firmware for its optimum performance and management of battery life and safety. Once the desired results are obtained, the firmware is finalized and deployed in the BMS. The prototype is then sent to external independent laboratories for EMI / EMC tests, basis whose clearance, the hardware and the firmware are again validated, and the design is finalized. In the manufacturing stage, ION Energy conducts as Automated Optical Inspection (AOI) testing is more reliable than manual visual inspection. In the final stage of the manufacturing process, the Design for Manufacturing (DFM) files are used for the component assembly process. Testing is necessary to avoid any incorrect component placement issues. Testing during this stage is typically more intensive than during the fabrication phase.

End-of-Line Testing measures and checks the functionality of ION’s battery management systems. The key factors taken into consideration at ION are high test quantity, test completion and low system with upgrade costs. At ION, we have built an automated testing platform called the ION Testmaster, built specifically for performing automated Functional Circuit Test (FCT) on ION’s BMSes. In the latest update, the ION Testmaster is interfaced with Edison Analytics for accurate and real-time inventory management using the MNP/serial number of the DUT, in this case, the BMS.

Q: A lot of players claim that they build technologies to enhance the life and performance of lithium-ion batteries. What is the USP of ION Energy?

Arora: It's worth noting that oftentimes when organizations emphasize on enhancing the life and performance of a battery, reliability takes a backseat. In a market like India that is still in a nascent stage, ION Energy is one of the very few players that offers reliable and tested solutions, making it our USP. ION Energy is an advanced battery management and intelligence platform that was born out of the desire to tackle the threat of climate degradation by enabling a much more environment-friendly mobility solution. Founded in 2016, ION’s mission is to accelerate Earth's transition to an all-electric planet. We are doing this with a focus on building technology that improves the life and performance of lithium-ion batteries, which power electric vehicles and energy storage systems.

ION’s full-stack solution blends advanced electronics and machine learning with deep domain expertise in energy storage. ION’s disruptive battery intelligence platform - Edison Analytics leverages battery data, software analytics, and ML to significantly improve battery performance and extend battery life by up to 40 percent. Battery Makers & OEMs around the world use ION’s platform to optimize their battery management systems (BMS) and build world-class batteries. ION Energy is leaps ahead when it comes to leveraging data. In a bid to enhance life and performance, ION Energy has a fully integrated stack with Battery Design Engineers, BMS Design Engineers and Software Engineers learning from insights captured by our cloud platform - Edison.

Q: In Evs the packaging is key and anything lighter is the most sought after by the OEMs. What are the contributions from your end on these expectations?

Arora: The battery usually comprises 25-30 percent of the weight of electric vehicles. There is always a tradeoff between the weight and size of the battery, vis-a-vis the range it offers. A bigger battery offers a higher range, but it also adds to the weight of the vehicle - reducing its energy efficiency. It is crucial to achieve the right balance in this trade off - and that needs a deep knowledge and understanding of the application, usage and the environment of the battery packs. At ION Energy, we have tools that can help OEMs find the right size for its battery packs.

Q: How do you see the increasing electronics and vehicles becoming more connected in EV space too? What sort of solutions do you give? Please elaborate.

Arora: The global automobile industry is on the brink of a major transformation. The Global Connected Car Market size is projected to reach USD 212.7 billion by 2027, from an estimated value of USD 42.6 billion in 2019, at a CAGR of 22.3 percent - as predicted by Markets and Markets. Technology is driving this shift, shaped by demographic, regulatory, and environmental pressures. Other factors include - consumer tech companies entering the automotive world, as software and other technologies, are taking a pivotal position in the future of automobiles. These businesses want to focus on design, ease of use, better service and extended battery life to bring new kinds of innovation to the field

Shared Asset Utilization requires companies to leverage advanced IoT, Battery Management & Driver Profiling to improve asset sweating, protect the lifetime of the asset, and ensure financial viability. This will have powerful effects beyond the auto industry. Insurers, for example, will have new ways to monitor driver behavior, reward good drivers, and distribute costs to bad ones. Companies can better connect idle cars with customers that need them. Continuously improving UX is becoming a norm, not only in mobile phones but also EVs. OTA updates that extend range, improve charging time and boost speed are a reality today. Companies with the technical capability to package world-class technology, UX and affordable pricing will win in the future of mobility. The growing battery swapping ecosystem for two / three-wheelers in Asia is one of the best examples of the shift in the transport sector brought about by EVs and connected electronics. It gives end-users the option to lease batteries and pay per km, instead of paying all the battery costs upfront. This is only possible because of connectivity between the batteries, the vehicles, the users and the swapping station.

Shared utilisation of batteries is possible only because of integrated battery management and telematics functions. It is important to track the location, usage and the state of the battery - all at the same time - to be able to charge users accordingly. ION has a lot of experience in building integrated Battery Management and Telematics Units for batteries and swapping stations. Our BMSes have GPS sensors and LTE modems integrated with battery management functions. We are able to send real time data to our cloud that enables monitoring and optimization of asset utilization.

Our BMSes - FS-CT, FS-LT, and FS-XT - are equipped with on-board memory storage to log every data point of the battery pack collected by the BMS, up to 20 years of historical battery data. Normally this would lead to an enormous amount of data, but we've developed compression algorithms tailored for battery data acquisition. The BMS records all physical parameters, events, errors relating to the performance of the battery pack. Our cloud-connected battery intelligence platform, Edison Analytics, allows engineers to access this data and gain insights into the life and performance of the battery. (MT)

Comments (0)

ADD COMMENT

Link Copied!

Kia Connect has named Olivier Pascal as President and Chief Executive Officer with effect from 1 January 2026. He brings over 15 years of automotive industry expertise to the position, having most recently acted as General Manager of Connected Cars, where he led European initiatives for connected vehicle experiences and data development. His career includes leadership across engineering, sales, marketing and technology functions at various dealership, regional and global levels. In his new capacity, Pascal will oversee the company’s connectivity, digital, data and charging strategies, emphasising customer experience, innovation and sustainable growth throughout Europe.

This leadership transition sees Marc Hedrich and Pablo Martínez Masip departing from their positions as President & CEO and COO, respectively. During their tenure, they were instrumental in driving strategic and operational performance across European markets. Hedrich moves to the role of President for Kia France, while Martínez Masip continues as Vice President of Product and Marketing at Kia Europe.

Kia Connect is dedicated to enhancing the customer journey through a fully integrated digital ecosystem, which now supports nearly two million users. The platform combines connected car services, digital mobility solutions and charging infrastructure, aligning with Kia’s broader shift towards software-defined and electrified mobility. Central to this ecosystem is the Kia App, launched last May, which consolidates connectivity, charging and ownership services into one interface. The app provides features such as remote status checks, vehicle diagnostics and charging control, with regular over-the-air updates introducing continual improvements informed by user feedback.

A recent December update introduced a 3D visualisation feature for the EV9 model, allowing drivers to view an accurate digital representation of their own vehicle’s configuration, including exterior colour and wheel design. This addition aims to create a more intuitive and tangible connection between the driver and their car through the app. Following an evaluation period, Kia intends to extend this 3D visualisation to other electric vehicle models in 2026.

Pascal said, “Kia Connect’s mission is to make every driving and charging journey smarter, safer, more convenient and more personal. In 2026, we will deliver tangible value for our B2C and B2B customers and partners, higher-quality features, a truly personalised digital experience, scalable B2B services and a robust charging solution. By combining innovation, unique customer experiences, responsible data use and operational rigour, we will build sustainable growth and a platform that supports Kia brand differentiation and business success in Europe.”

Comments (0)

ADD COMMENT

Link Copied!

Caterham and Motul have solidified their ongoing collaboration with a new long-term agreement, blending Caterham’s focus on lightweight sports cars with Motul’s extensive expertise in advanced lubrication, honed over more than a century and a half. The alliance was celebrated publicly at Rétromobile 2026 in Paris, where a 2005 K-Series and a 2025 Super Seven 2000 were displayed on Motul’s stand. Under the renewed partnership, every new Caterham Seven produced at the company’s Dartford headquarters will leave the factory using Motul lubricants, spanning all models from the road-going 170 to each race car competing in the five Caterham Motorsport UK Championships.

Further deepening the relationship, Motul will take on the role of title sponsor for the Caterham Seven Championship UK in 2026, the brand’s premier national racing series. Known globally for its high-performance, motorsport-oriented fluid solutions, Motul brings decades of experience supporting automotive reliability and competitive success. Its technical innovation and research capabilities, proven through partnerships with major events like the 24 Hours of Le Mans and the Dakar Rally, ensure that its products meet the most demanding requirements, making Motul a natural and strategic partner for Caterham’s engineering and racing ambitions.

Ali McColl, Global Head of Marketing, Caterham, said, “This partnership is a significant milestone for Caterham, aligning our brand with a world-renowned leader in lubricants and fluid technology, reinforcing our commitment to performance across both our road and race cars. Motul brings a depth of experience in performance and efficiency that few other partners can offer. This agreement also marks an exciting new chapter for Caterham Motorsport. As we look ahead to the 2026 season, we are proud to unveil the Motul Caterham Seven Championship UK as the new name for the pinnacle of Caterham racing in the UK.”

Andreea Culcea, Chief Brand & Communication Officer, Motul, said, “We are proud to renew our partnership with Caterham, a brand renowned for its exceptional sports car expertise. Since 2019, our collaboration has been driven by shared values of performance, craft and precision. At Motul, we are developing tailor-made solutions designed to unlock the full potential of our partners’ machines. Working alongside a manufacturer like Caterham, where hand-crafted, limited-production cars are born from deep engineering know-how and passion, reflects our vision of authentic partnerships.”

Comments (0)

ADD COMMENT

Link Copied!

The Indian automotive industry has commenced the 2026 calendar year on a high note, with automakers across two-wheeler, passenger vehicle and commercial vehicle segments reporting significant YoY wholesale growth for January. The performance reflects a resilient domestic market and a burgeoning recovery in international exports.

The two-wheeler sector saw massive volume gains, spearheaded by Hero MotoCorp, which recorded dispatches of 557,871 units, marking a robust 26 percent growth compared to 442,873 units in January 2025. This performance marks the company’s 25th consecutive year of market leadership. TVS Motor Company followed with a 30 percent increase in domestic two-wheeler sales, reaching 383,262 units, while its electric vehicle (EV) wing grew by 50 percent to 37,756 units.

Royal Enfield achieved a significant milestone, surpassing 1 million year-to-date sales in just 10 months, posting January sales of 104,322 motorcycles – a 14 percent YoY increase, which includes 93,781 units in the domestic market and 10,541 units exported.

B. Govindarajan, Managing Director, Eicher Motors and CEO, Royal Enfield, said, "The new year has begun on a positive note for Royal Enfield – extending the strong momentum from the previous quarter and marking four consecutive months of healthy double-digit growth. We have crossed 1 million motorcycle sales in this financial year across the globe and also crossed 100,000 motorcycle sales in exports."

In the passenger vehicle (PV) segment, Mahindra & Mahindra reported a 25 percent growth in utility vehicles, selling 63,510 units domestically. Tata Motors Passenger Vehicles saw a dramatic 47.1 percent rise in total sales (including EVs) to 71,066 units.

Hyundai Motor India achieved its highest-ever monthly domestic sales of 59,107 units, up 9.5 percent, while Toyota Kirloskar Motor registered 30,630 units, representing a 17 percent YoY growth. Kia India also started the year strong with 27,603 units, a 10.3 percent increase and JSW MG Motor India grew 9 percent with 4,843 wholesale units.

Honda Cars India reported domestic wholesales of 6,193 units and 748 units in exports. These figures follow a January 2025 performance where the company registered 7,325 domestic units and 4,979 units in exports.

The current sales volume is supported by demand for the Honda Amaze, alongside steady contributions from the City and Elevate models.

Tarun Garg, MD & CEO, Hyundai Motor India, said, "January 2026 marks a defining chapter in Hyundai Motor India’s journey. Achieving our highest-ever monthly domestic sales of 59,107 units... reflects not only Hyundai’s brand leadership but also the collective strength of our people, partners and customers."

Nalinikanth Gollagunta, CEO, Automotive Division, Mahindra & Mahindra, said, "Building on the strong momentum of last year's performance, we began the year on a strong note in January... On 14th January, we opened bookings for XUV7XO and XEV 9S clocking 93,689 bookings for a booking value of INR 205 billion - a record-breaking milestone in just 4 hours."

Atul Sood, Senior Vice-President, Sales & Marketing, Kia India, said, "The encouraging start to 2026 reflects the continued trust customers place in the Kia brand. The positive response to the new-generation Seltos, steady demand for the Sonet, and growing popularity of the Carens Clavis and Clavis EV, underline the strength and balance of our portfolio."

Kunal Behl, Vice President, Marketing & Sales, Honda Cars India Ltd, said: “The year has begun on a strong note, supported by a healthy sales momentum. The Honda Amaze continues to bring in strong demand for its value for money offering along with the City and Elevate that contribute steadily to the overall business. We remain confident of sustaining this positive momentum in the coming months.”

The commercial vehicle (CV) sector also demonstrated strength, particularly in heavy and light cargo segments. Tata Motors reported total CV sales of 38,844 units, up 29.1 percent from 30,083 units in the previous year. Within this, Heavy Commercial Vehicle (HCV) trucks saw the sharpest rise at 41.2 percent. Mahindra’s domestic CV sales grew by 22 percent to 27,656 units, driven largely by the LCV 2T–3.5T category.

Comments (0)

ADD COMMENT

Link Copied!

In a strategic pivot from direct consumer subsidies to foundational supply-chain resilience, the 2026-27 Union Budget, presented by Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman, focuses on bolstering the structural integrity of the Indian automobile industry.

A cornerstone of this year’s fiscal policy is the massive infrastructure and logistics push, highlighted by the development of the Dankuni-Surat Dedicated Freight Corridor and the operationalisation of 20 new national waterways. These initiatives, alongside a coastal cargo promotion scheme aiming to double the share of waterway freight to 12 percent by 2047, are designed to drastically lower logistics costs and ease the movement of components across the country.

Simultaneously, the government is reinforcing the industry's backbone by establishing a INR 100 billion SME Growth Fund to provide long-term capital for auto-component MSMEs, while enhancing liquidity through the Trade Receivables Discounting System (TReDS) and easing regulatory hurdles via ‘Corporate Mitras’ in Tier-II and Tier-III cities.

To secure the future of high-tech mobility, the Budget further expands the India Semiconductor Mission (ISM 2.0) to include domestic equipment manufacturing and chip IP, while nearly doubling the allocation for the Electronics Components Manufacturing Scheme to INR 400 billion. This technological drive is matched by a robust commitment to the electric vehicle (EV) ecosystem, specifically through the creation of ‘rare earth corridors’ in Odisha, Kerala, Andhra Pradesh and Tamil Nadu. These hubs will provide plug-and-play ecosystems to insulate the industry from global mineral volatility and supply curbs. Complementing this is a series of customs duty exemptions on capital goods used for lithium-ion cell manufacturing and critical mineral processing, which is expected to drive down battery costs and encourage local gigafactory expansion. Finally, for the clean energy segment, the full excise duty exemption on the biogas portion of blended CNG offers immediate relief to fuel prices, marking a comprehensive effort to foster a self-reliant, sustainable, and cost-competitive automotive landscape in the wake of previous GST reforms.

Comments (0)

ADD COMMENT

Link Copied!