Hyundai Motor Group To Set Up Innovation Centre In Singapore
- By MT Bureau
- October 14, 2020
Hyundai Motor Group today announced the groundbreaking ceremony of Hyundai Motor Group Innovation Centre in Singapore (HMGICS). The ceremony was held virtually. The centre will act as an open innovation lab for the Group's future mobility research and development, with the aim of revolutionising the future mobility value chain.
HMGICS will focus on human-centered mobility value chain innovation with three strategic directions. The purpose of the whole initiative focuses on -
-Enhancing the value of work and the dignity of workers through a human-centered digital transformation and developing innovative systems that combine advanced technologies such as AI, ICT, and big data to allow for work environment where creative potentials are fulfilled, and human value is enhanced.
-Building a customer-centered smart mobility environment where products are tailored to customer needs and mobility services would enrich its customers' lives.
-Contributing to the building of Singapore's Smart Nation as a responsible industry member in the smart ecosystem. HMGICS, located in the heart of Singapore, will use eco-friendly energy sources like solar and hydrogen energy to help achieve carbon neutrality.
Customer-centric future
Shedding some light on the future prospects, Hyundai confirms that in the future, customers will be able to customise and purchase vehicles online using a smartphone, which will immediately start production using Hyundai's on-demand technology. The customers can then watch their car being manufactured at HMGICS. Once the car is ready for delivery, it will be transferred to the 620-meter-long Sky Track where customer can test drive the vehicle.
Sky Track will sit atop HMGICS' seven-story innovation lab located at the Jurong Innovation District (JID). Hyundai further claims that the centre will act as a test bed for a human-centered, intelligent manufacturing platform with small scale EV production facility on site. The facility will utilise the latest 'Industry 4.0' smart technologies, such as artificial intelligence (AI), Internet of Things (IoT) and robotics. The logistics and assembly lines within HMGICS will be highly automated to establish a safe and efficient work environment. The Group will also test versatile systems that produce multiple models, to respond efficiently to fast-changing market environments. Hyundai confirms that the innovation centre could also explore new business concepts, including battery-as-a-service. The construction is scheduled to end by 2022.
Kia India Expands Carens Clavis Lineup, Adds New HTX(O) Trim And Six-Seater Variants
- By MT Bureau
- October 08, 2025
Kia India, a leading passenger vehicle manufacturer, has added new trim and six-seater configurations for the Carens Clavis across multiple existing variants.
The Carens Clavis lineup now grows to eight trims with the addition of the new HTX(O) trim, priced at INR 1.92 million (ex-showroom). Positioned just above the HTX variant, the HTX(O) trim is exclusively available with the Smartstream G1.5 Turbo-GDi petrol engine and 7-speed Dual Clutch Transmission (7DCT).
The trim gets new premium features, such as – BOSE Premium Sound System with 8 Speakers. Drive Mode Select (Eco/Normal/Sport) (7DCT), Smart Key Remote Engine Start (7DCT), Electric Parking Brake with Auto Hold (7DCT).
Furthermore, Kia has also introduced a six-seater configuration in the following trims:
- HTK+ (G1.5T 7DCT & D1.5 6AT)
- HTK+(O) (G1.5T 7DCT)
- HTX(O) (G1.5T 7DCT)
Atul Sood, Senior VP and National Head, Sales and Marketing, Kia India, said, “Reinforcing our commitment to elevating the overall brand experience, we are happy to strengthen the Carens Clavis lineup and make every variant a compelling choice. Our customers inspire every innovation we make. And hence, with the lineup expansion we have not just introduced a new HTX(O) trim but also addressed their desire on adding the 6-seater variant options. With these additions, we wish more consumers enjoy the power of choice without compromising on their needs.”
The entire Carens Clavis lineup continues to offer high levels of safety and convenience, featuring Level 2 ADAS with 20 autonomous features, Six Airbags, Electronic Stability Control, and Kia Connect as part of its core offering.
Jeep India Launches Limited-Run Compass Track Edition SUV At INR 2.67 Million
- By MT Bureau
- October 08, 2025
Jeep India has introduced the Compass Track Edition, a limited-run special edition SUV based on the well-appointed Compass Model S trim. This new variant aims to offer customers an elevated and distinctive expression of style while maintaining the brand's core focus on capability and adventure. The prices of the Compass Track Edition start at INR 2.67 million for MT, INR 2.86 million for Track AT and INR 3.05 million for Track AT 4x4 variant.
Externally, the model features a signature hood decal, Piano Black detailing on the grille and badges and the exclusive Track Edition insignia. The look is completed by striking 18-inch diamond-cut Tech Grey alloy wheels and contrasting Spruce Beige highlights, giving the SUV a differentiated road presence.
The interior boasts luxurious upgrades, including all-new Tupelo Leatherette Seats with Spruce Beige contrast stitching, Dark Espresso Smoke Chrome finishes and a Cortina leather-wrapped steering wheel.
The Compass Track Edition is powered by the proven 2.0L MultiJet II Turbo Diesel engine, which delivers 170 HP and 350 Nm of torque. Buyers can choose between a 6-speed Manual Transmission or a 9-speed Automatic Transmission, with options for both 2WD and 4WD drivetrains.
The special edition also includes an extensive safety suite with over 50 standard and available safety features, such as four-channel ABS with EBD, Electronic Stability Control and all-speed traction control.
Kumar Priyesh, Business Head and Director – Automotive Brands, Stellantis India, said, “With the Compass Track Edition, we’re offering our customers an even more elevated SUV experience that reflects their individuality. Every detail has been carefully designed to create a sense of exclusivity, while staying rooted in Jeep’s DNA of capability, performance and adventure.”
Toyota Launches 2025 Fortuner Leader Edition In India
- By MT Bureau
- October 08, 2025
Toyota Kirloskar Motor (TKM), one of the leading passenger vehicle manufacturers, has unveiled the 2025 Fortuner Leader Edition SUV.
The company said that the Fortuner now comes with ‘refreshed styling and premium enhancements’ to deliver a sportier and more dynamic aesthetic. The launch builds on the success of the 2024 Leader Edition.
The Fortuner gets a new grille design with front and rear bumper spoilers, chrome garnish and a distinctive hood emblem. It comes with glossy black alloy wheels and dual-tone roof in black.
On the inside, the cabin features black and maroon dual-tone seats and door trims, along with convenience additions such as auto-folding mirrors and illuminated scuff plates. Safety is bolstered by the inclusion of a Tyre Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS).
The SUV is driven by Toyota’s 1GD-FTV 2.8-litre turbocharged engine, which produces 201bhp and 500 Nm of torque. It is available in 4x2 Automatic and Manual Transmission variants. The colour options include Attitude Black, Super White, Pearl White and Silver.
Varinder Wadhwa, Vice-President, Sales-Service-Used Car Business, Toyota Kirloskar Motor, said, “At Toyota, our customers’ evolving lifestyle preferences inspire us to continually refresh and enhance our offerings. We are grateful for the strong acceptance and overwhelming response to the 2024 Fortuner Leader Edition, which has further strengthened the SUV’s legacy as an icon on Indian roads. Encouraged by this trust, we are delighted to introduce the 2025 Fortuner Leader Edition, an offering for those seeking a sportier, more dynamic SUV. We are confident that this refreshed edition will further delight our customers and reinforce Fortuner’s position as the benchmark in the premium SUV segment.”
Toyota Kirloskar Motor is offering comprehensive finance solutions for the new edition, including up to 8-year funding plans and extended warranty options.
Since its Indian debut 15 years ago, the Fortuner has sold over 300,000 units, establishing itself as a benchmark in the premium SUV segment.
Stellantis Announces Major Leadership Team Changes To Strengthen Global Strategy
- By MT Bureau
- October 08, 2025
Stellantis N.V. is reorganising its top executive structure with several key appointments and role adjustments, effective immediately, as it prepares to unveil an updated corporate strategy in 2026. The changes aim to sharpen the company's regional focus and promote both internal and external talent.
Key Appointments and Regional Shifts
- Emanuele Cappellano is now the Head of Enlarged Europe and European Brands, in addition to his current role leading Stellantis Pro One (the commercial vehicles business unit).
- Jean-Philippe Imparato will shift his focus to full-time CEO roles at Maserati and Stellantis & You, reporting to Cappellano.
- Herlander Zola has been appointed Head of the South America region, succeeding Cappellano.
- Samir Cherfan joins the Stellantis Leadership Team (SLT) while maintaining his position as Head of Middle East & Africa and Micromobility.
- Grégoire Olivier is now the Head of the China and Asia-Pacific region and an SLT member. The company noted that this and Cherfan's appointment sharpen the regional focus for the Middle East & Africa and Asia-Pacific organisations.
- Francesco Ciancia will rejoin Stellantis from Mercedes-Benz on 1st November as Global Head of Manufacturing.
- Ralph Gilles joins the SLT as Global Head of Design.
Antonio Filosa, CEO, Stellantis, said, "With these new appointments we are promoting exceptional talent from inside and out to leadership roles as we prepare our business for future success. We are also sharpening our regional focus by allocating specific responsibility for our Asia-Pacific and Middle East & Africa organisations at the SLT level.”
On the other hand, the company also announced some executive departures:
- Arnaud Deboeuf will leave the company to pursue other opportunities.
- Philippe de Rovira, formerly Head of the joint Asia-Pacific, Middle East and Africa region, is leaving to pursue new career endeavours, a move made public in July.
“We are delighted we will continue to benefit from Jean-Philippe’s expertise in his new role. Our thanks go to Arnaud and Philippe for their contributions over the years and we wish them the best in their future endeavours,” added Filosa.
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