After a two-year hiatus due to the pandemic, the Automotive Skills Development Council, India's first sector skill council for the automobile industry, has organised the skill-oriented brainstorming ASDC’s Partners Forum - 2022 on Wednesday. Rajesh Aggarwal IAS, Secretary, MSDE, inaugurated the forum at Indian Habitat Centre, New Delhi. Dr. Nirmaljeet Singh Kalsi, Chairperson, NCVET; Ved Mani Tiwari, COO and acting CEO, NSDC, also attended the function. 

ASDC also launched a career guidance book, which features the opportunities in the automobile sector. The students will also get information on the new trends of 3D printing and robotics, artificial intelligence, biotechnology, a release said. 

Rajesh Aggarwal emphasised reskilling the roadside mechanics and appreciate the ASDC’s initiative for the globally competent trainers with dual certification. 

Aggarwal said, “It is pertinent that we promote AR-VR-based skill training for the automotive sector, imbibe the culture of learning, and focus on multiskilling, as these initiatives will empower our youth and promote nation-building.” 

He further emphasised on the need for a dynamic skilling environment, exposure to industry requirements (reskilling, upskilling) and NSQF alignment with industry needs. 

Aggarwal said that we would work closely with the Armed Forces in the implementation of the Agnipath scheme as the country prepares a future ready army of young Indians. Some skills learnt on the job will have direct equivalence with National Skills Qualifications Framework (NSQF) syllabus and Agniveers will be given Skill India certification while in service. 

Dr. Kalsi said that the council was working closely with AICTE, UGC and Sector Skill Council for making an excellent skill ecosystem. Dr. Kalsi said, “We have developed and recognised 16 different QPs that align with NSQF. All the QPs like AI, robotics, IOT, cyber securities etc are dedicated for the industry 4.0. We have also recognised two-days micro skilling training that will help the young to get skill certification.” 

Tiwari said, “The demographic dividend for India is at its peak right now. Our trainers will need to be trained in the delivery of content using digital technologies and digital content. We must restructure our job descriptions to better reflect the demands of the modern workplace. A nation that is skilled and empowered will be the result of the introduction of a digital ecosystem for skilling and livelihood, as well as the establishment of e-laboratories.” 

Vinod Aggarwal said: “The Indian automotive industry today is at the forefront of global industry practices, both in terms of adoption of the latest technology as well as fostering innovations through integrating safety and performance of vehicles produced in India. The industry stands tall in supporting the initiatives of honourable Prime Minister’s vision of Atmanirbhar Bharat. In order to continue its leadership position, it needs a constant source of skilled manpower as well as focus on upskilling and reskilling its existing workforce. The theme for this year’s Partner Forum 2022 is ‘Sahayogita se Atmanirbharata’ which sums up the need for collaboration of all stakeholders – industry, government, training institutions and potential candidates to collaborate; this is what we believe will have a significant contribution in building Atmanirbhar Bharat.” 

Industry experts and panelists discussed on outcome driven training, strengthening the skill process, new opportunities in EV training, and Industry 4.0. (MT)

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German luxury car brand Audi has launched Audi A4 Signature Edition at INR 5.71 million (ex-showroom).The A4 Signature Edition features distinctive styling enhancements, including Audi rings entry LED lamps, exclusive Audi rings decals and dynamic wheel hub caps.

The company stated that the luxury car will be available in limited units and comes with five colour choices: Glacier White Metallic, Mythos Black Metallic, Navarra Blue Metallic, Progressive Red Metallic and Manhattan Grey Metallic.

Balbir Singh Dhillon, Head of Audi India, said, “The Audi A4 has been one of the best-selling sedans in our line-up, combining dynamic performance with sophisticated elegance. With the launch of the Signature Edition, we’re offering our customers a chance to own an even more exclusive variant, distinguished by bespoke styling elements that elevate its premium appeal. The Audi A4 Signature Edition is crafted for discerning customers who value refined aesthetics and seek to make a sophisticated statement through their choice of vehicle.”

Some of the key highlights of the Audi A4 includes –

• Park Assist with 360–degree camera (new)
• New decorative inlays in wood oak, natural grey (new)
• Audi rings entry LED lamps that create a striking welcome light projection (new)
• Distinctive Audi rings decals for enhanced brand presence (new)
• Dynamic wheel hub caps that maintain the perfect Audi logo orientation regardless of wheel motion (new)
• Premium fragrance dispenser for enhanced cabin ambience (new)
• Aerodynamic spoiler lip for a more dynamic profile (new)
• Key cover in customisable colour options for a premium touch to your vehicle access (new)
• Stainless steel pedal covers add a sporty interior accent (new)
• Special alloy wheel paint design for a striking appearance (new)

The Audi A4 is powered by a 2.0L TFSI engine that churns out 204 hp (150kW) and 320 Nm torque. A zero to 100 kmph in just 7.1 seconds and it has a top speed of 241 kmph. It features a 12V Mild Hybrid System that reduces fuel consumption, brake recuperation enhances the overall fuel efficiency, B&O Premium sound system with 3D sound – with 19 speakers including a centre speaker and subwoofer, 16-channel amplifier and an output of 755 watts.

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Hyundai Motor India (HMIL) has expanded its Alcazar SUV range with a new Corporate variant with diesel powertrain at prices starting INR 1.78 million and an expansion of automatic transmission options in the Prestige DCT Petrol (7-speed) at INR 1.86 million.

The Alcazar Corporate variant is equipped with a voice-enabled smart Panoramic Sunroof and is available with both 6-speed Manual and 6-speed Automatic transmission choices, and is designed to appeal to the evolving aspirations of Indian SUV buyers.

Tarun Garg, Whole-Time Director and Chief Operating Officer, Hyundai Motor India, said, “At Hyundai Motor India, we are continuously listening to customer feedback and evolving our product offerings to meet their aspirations. The introduction of the Corporate variant in Alcazar Diesel with a voice enabled smart panoramic sunroof and the inclusion of DCT in the Prestige Petrol variant reflects our commitment to providing a more personalized and premium SUV experience. With these updates, we aim to offer more choice and delight to our customers who seek performance, technology and sophistication in their vehicles.”

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When Tata Motors launched the Harrier.ev, it wasn’t just introducing another electric vehicle — it was signalling a shift in India’s premium electric vehicle landscape. Based on Tata’s Gen 2 EV (acti.ev+) architecture, the Harrier.ev blends familiarity with futuristic design, making electrification a natural progression rather than a disruptive leap.

Interestingly, the company is providing a lifetime warranty on the battery for the first vehicle owners, applicable only to private owners. 

Anand Kulkarni, Chief Product Officer, Tata Passenger Electric Mobility, told Motoring Trends, “We have said that our Gen 2 approach is basically a pure EV approach. Much the same way, the acti.ev+, in fact, we have taken that architecture further ahead on the Harrier.ev to make sure that you can get the seating comfort of a regular SUV without any compromise on the battery or powertrain.”

While rivals explore born-electric platforms from scratch, Tata’s strategy with the Harrier.ev is different – marrying known aesthetics with a ground-up EV design. That’s not just a technical decision, but as Kulkarni stated, it’s rooted in customer behaviour.

“There is a section of people who are saying, who want the comfort and the familiarity of the product that they are using. So we have ​made a product that retains that familiarity, while giving them the benefits of electrification,” Kulkarni explained.

The Harrier.ev isn’t just about powertrains and batteries – it’s about creating a ‘third space.’ With features like a 14.5-inch Neo QLED screen and Dolby audio, Tata wants the Harrier.ev to be as comfortable and connected as a living room.

“You have office, you have home, and everything in between is where you spend a lot of time in the car. People expect it to be comfortable, convenient, connected and safe,” Kulkarni said.

Even as the EV market rapidly matures, Tata remains mindful of long-term viability. Decisions around battery size, AWD vs FWD configurations, and software-driven features were all taken with a delicate balance of affordability and future-readiness in mind.

“We worked with two sizes of batteries. This was about making the right choices,” said Kulkarni, noting how Tata’s dual-battery strategy is now industry standard.

As Kulkarni explained, For Tata, the Harrier.ev is more than a product – it's a culmination of years of foresight, strategic evolution and a deep understanding of the Indian consumer. It’s a vehicle that reflects not just where the market is headed, but how Tata Motors is determined to lead it there.

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Toyota Kirloskar Motor (TKM) has launched the Fortuner and Legender in a new Neo Drive in a hybrid avatar, featuring a 48-volt system that delivers improved fuel efficiency. The models are priced at INR 4.47 million and INR 5.09 million, respectively.  

Since its debut in 2009, the Toyota Fortuner has defined the premium SUV segment in India, admired for its rugged design, robust performance and unmatched all-terrain capabilities. The stylish and feature-rich Legender complements the Fortuner, exemplifying Toyota’s core values of quality, durability and reliability. Together, they have cultivated a loyal following among urban adventurers and off-road enthusiasts alike.

The new Neo Drive variants introduce Toyota’s advanced 2.8-litre, four-cylinder turbo-diesel engine paired with a 48V system comprising a belt-integrated starter generator and lithium-ion battery. This technology mirrors hybrid electric systems by recuperating braking energy during deceleration, contributing to smoother low-end acceleration, quieter operation and improved fuel efficiency. The Smart Idle Start-Stop function further enhances efficiency by automatically shutting off the engine when stationary, resulting in lower emissions and fuel savings.

Importantly, the company claims that these enhancements do not compromise the Fortuner and Legender’s formidable payload capacity, durability or off-road performance. The Multi-Terrain Select system optimises throttle response, braking and traction control to deliver a superior driving experience across diverse terrains.

On the design front, the Fortuner retains its bold, purposeful stance, ideal for rugged adventures, while the Legender exudes a more dynamic and premium appeal with dual-tone body colours, split LED headlamps and a sleek fascia. Both models offer dual-tone leather upholstery, soft-touch materials and ergonomic seating designed for long-distance comfort.

In terms of safety the SUVs come with ABS, Vehicle Stability Control with Brake Assist, WIL Concept Seats, Hill Assist Control, Traction Control and more. Toyota’s focus on customer convenience extends to tailored finance solutions, including up to 8-year funding plans, Toyota Smart Balloon Finance and pre-approved value-added services such as extended warranty and genuine accessories. Buyers will also benefit from five years of complimentary roadside assistance and a standard 3-year/100,000 km warranty, extendable to 5 years/220,000 km, along with the customisable Toyota Smiles Plus service package.

Varinder Wadhwa, Vice President, Sales-Service-Used Car Business, Toyota Kirloskar Motor, said, “As the SUV market in India grows steadily, customers are seeking advanced features and differentiated styling. The new Fortuner and Legender Neo Drive variants meet these expectations with bold design, powerful performance, and comprehensive features, underscoring Toyota’s commitment to delivering ever-better cars and advancing towards carbon neutrality.”

Bookings for the Fortuner and Legender Neo Drive variants commenced on 2 June 2025, with deliveries set to begin from the third week of June.

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