As the pioneer of electric mobility in India, the company displayed one of the widest ranges of EVs and related technology solutions, to demonstrate its commitment to be driven by purpose for a cleaner, greener tomorrow.

The company turned the spotlight on its range of EVs and solutions: Funster, ATOM and e-XUV300, e-KUV100, and e-Alfa Mini (Cart Version).

Funster: ‘Play-for-fun’ is the core experience that personifies Funster, which has been conceived as a sports electric vehicle. It enables seamless acceleration, available at the press of the throttle. With its dual electric motors and full-time AWD system, the vehicle offers a class-leading output of 230 kW with a top speed of 200 kmph, clocking 0 to 100 kmph in 5 seconds. Funster is equipped with a high-end 59.1 kWh battery pack, enabling an impressive range of 520 km on a single charge. The techy front end, floating tail lamps, sports-shoe inspired wheel arches and advanced interiors express an active sporty lifestyle as the new norm.

ATOM: Designed to appeal to the emerging new India and transform the face of last mile connectivity, ATOM is a combination of clean, comfortable and smart mobility. Powered by Mahindra’s latest electric drive system, the vehicle has a spacious interior and a monocoque body that offers a safe enclosure for occupants. It also comes equipped with a state of the art 4G connectivity system and aims to revolutionize the way Indians travel.

e-XUV300: An aspirational electric SUV developed as a perfect mobility solution for the environment-conscious customers and the ideal vehicle for those who desire thrilling performance. The vehicle is powered by a powerful motor that gives instant acceleration and at the same time the refinement and quiet drive of an EV. The large battery capacity ensures long range avoiding range anxiety. It has a futuristic design with new features, smart and premium interiors with blue highlights to accentuate the new character of this SUV. Most importantly, the vehicle has been built on a platform that has 5-star safety rating from GNCAP.

e-KUV100: This EV provides the benefits of driving an SUV combined with the unique advantages of an electric vehicle. The vehicle is ideally suited for daily city commutes to schools, offices, malls, etc. It offers peak power output of 40kW, torque of 120 Nm and a range of 147 kms, ensuring that daily commuting is easily covered. Fast charging can extend the range by 80 percent within 60 minutes. Its silent drive, coupled with an automatic transmission, offers a relaxing, fatigue free driving experience in chaotic city traffic. In addition to smartphone connectivity, onboard computers will allow for remote diagnostics, cabin pre-cooling, remote door lock/unlock, location tracking, monitoring of driving pattern and giving updates on the battery status.

The company showcased 2 variants of the Treo - the Lithium-ion battery electric 3-wheeler. The new Treo 3-wheeler features more than 20 new and improved EV components made in-house by Mahindra Electric. It also features an additional range extender that will increase the range by 60-70 km, along with a concept solar roof that can increase the range by another 26 km.

From the modular electric 3-wheeler platform comes another heavy-duty small electric commercial vehicle named Mahindra Treo Zor. This new model will feature best-in-class performance that will be ideal for a range of applications, from vegetable vendors, to e-commerce players. With a best-in-segment storage area, the cargo box of the Treo Zor can be accessed from all three-sides, enhancing its usability and convenience.

e-Alfa Mini (Cart Version): This battery-operated 3-wheeler represents an ideal solution for last-mile delivery. Built on e-Alfa Mini passenger vehicle platform, it boasts of a real-world range of 75-80 km with full load and an optional swappable battery pack. e-Alfa Cargo is just the beginning of the EV offerings for commercial applications from Mahindra.

Mahindra Electric unveiled its design-ready Mahindra Electric Scalable and Modular Architecture 350 (MESMA 350) which is a 350 volt powertrain that has been built from the ground up by the company. MESMA 350 supports motor sizes ranging from 60 kW to 280 kW, dual motor concepts and battery sizes up to 80 kWh. With this new platform, it is gearing up for the greater adoption of EVs that will help bring economies of scale, reduce cost and enable smaller variants/ models to be made in India.

Engines

In the BS-VI range the company displayed mStallion, its range of advanced BSVI-ready turbo gasoline direct injection, TGDi engines. Developed at the state-of-the-art Mahindra Research Valley, the mStallion range of gasoline engines have been designed, engineered, developed and tested to deliver thrilling performance across varied driving and traffic conditions. The mStallion range of engine is future- ready with state-of-the-art technology, which in current form is BSVI stage 1 and stage 2 compliant. This in turn is equivalent to Euro 6 C norms and is fully protected to meet Euro 6 D norms.

The mStallion engines have been built indigenously with support from such experts as Bosch, AVL, and Continental among others. The engines are powered by the TGDi technology and boast of best-in-class performance with the highest torque density. They deliver better fuel efficiency along with significant improvements in Noise-Vibration-Harshness parameters. Besides, they deliver excellent low-end torque and provide power-packed performance.

The company also showcased its new division CERO (Mahindra MSTC Recycling Pvt. Ltd.), India's first organised vehicle recycler. CERO stands for a world of zero waste and zero pollution through automobile recycling and reuse.

Dr Pawan Goenka, Managing Director, Mahindra & Mahindra Ltd, said, “As Mahindra enters its 75^th year, our theme of Driven by Purpose will be the pillar on which we develop sustainable mobility solutions for the future. Our focus will not only be on growing our clean business unit through our electric mobility business but also to provide cleaner engines as we approach the implementation of BS-VI norms.”

Rajan Wadhera, President, Automotive Sector, Mahindra & Mahindra Ltd, said, “What gives us a sense of pride today is the display of our new M Stallion BSVI range of gasoline engines, which are truly world class with the highest level of technology. It is fitting that we choose to display these engines at an important industry event like the Auto Expo. I am particularly proud of our new range of BSVI trucks which have had minimal changes and offer a hassle free ownership experience. The launch of our CRUZIO range of buses is another significant step toward making us a full range player in the CV segment.”

Mahesh Babu, CEO, Mahindra Electric, said, “The products displayed at the 2020 Auto Expo clearly demonstrated Mahindra’s commitment to develop and manufacture EV technology in India. They also showcased our strength across a range of EV platforms in both the mass and personal mobility segments. The design-ready MESMA 350 volt powertrain will be made in India for the world.” (MT)

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Renault has unveiled the name of its latest show-car, the Bridger Concept, as part of its continued international expansion. This model serves as a precursor to a forthcoming production vehicle, specifically an urban SUV designed with new dimensions to accommodate the evolving needs of city-dwelling families.

The Bridger Concept stands out with its bold and robust design, featuring surprisingly compact proportions. Measuring under four metres in length, it maximises interior space, demonstrating that a smaller footprint does not necessitate a compromise on roominess. The name itself, derived from the English word ‘bridge’, was chosen for its connotations of strength, connection and linkage. This choice highlights the vehicle's assertive styling and reinforces the brand's commitment to fostering human connections within the cabin, a core aspect of its ‘voitures à vivre’ philosophy.

A comprehensive reveal of the Bridger Concept is scheduled for 10 March 2026. This unveiling will occur during the presentation of Renault Group's futuREady strategic plan, with the entire event being streamed live from the company's official events platform.

Explaining the thinking behind the name of the new show-car, Sylvia dos Santos, Head of Naming Strategy with Renault's Global Marketing Division, said, “With Renault Bridger, we are adding to our family of names based on English words.  This one comes from the word 'bridge', with the letters 'ER' added for identification. The name Renault Bridger is part of the same approach as the name of Renault Duster. It’s a powerful, robust and versatile name, ideal to identify our new urban SUV show-car and open a new page in our international offensive!”

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Axis Bank has announced its appointment as a preferred financer for Tesla in India, which will see the company provide financing solutions for customers purchasing Tesla vehicles as part of a nationwide rollout.

The collaboration covers major metropolitan areas and emerging electric vehicle (EV) hubs. The initiative is designed to integrate with Tesla’s global ownership model by using digital onboarding to manage the purchase journey.

Axis Bank has developed specific auto-loan products for the premium EV segment. These offerings focus on repayment flexibility and digital processing speeds.

It includes loan tenure options extending up to 10 years. Customised structures designed to align with individual customer cash flows. A fully digital onboarding process intended to reduce sanction turnaround times. Coverage across all-India locations to support Tesla’s market entry.

Munish Sharda, Executive Director, Axis Bank, said, “As electric mobility gains momentum in India, Axis Bank is proud to collaborate with Tesla to help accelerate this transition. Through this collaboration, we are bringing together world-class electric vehicles with innovative, tailored financing solutions and seamless customer engagement. This makes it easier for customers to adopt sustainable mobility without compromising on convenience or flexibility. This initiative reflects our continued focus on responsible banking and future-ready solutions.”

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Vietnamese electric vehicle brand VinFast has announced the completion of its strategic restructuring into three automotive brand lines. The company officially unveiled two flagship models, the Lac Hong 800S and the Lac Hong 900S, to head its ultra-luxury marque.

The restructuring divides the portfolio into the Lac Hong ultra-luxury line, the VF passenger vehicle range and the Green commercial mobility brand. VinFast has maintained a leadership position in Vietnam for 16 consecutive months, delivering 175,099 vehicles in 2025.

The three brands target different market segments to support the company's next phase of development:

• Lac Hong: Comprises the 900 LX, 900S, and 800S models.
• VF: Includes a portfolio of passenger EVs from the VF 3 to the VF 9 and the VF MPV 7.
• Green: Developed for commercial mobility, featuring the Limo Green, Herio Green, Nerio Green and Minio Green models.

The new Lac Hong 800S and 900S models use design elements inspired by Vietnamese heritage, such as a grille with vertical slats and emblems evoking the Lac bird. Interior materials include Nappa leather, wood and gold-plated accents.

They are equipped with a tri-motor system with one front motor and two rear motors; a combined output of 460 kW and a fully active suspension system for ride comfort and stability.

On the inside, it gets executive seating and power-assisted doors. The 900S includes a privacy partition, a projection entertainment system and a workstation.

The Lac Hong 800S and 900S are scheduled for commercial launch in 2027.

At present, VinFast operates manufacturing facilities in Vietnam and India, with planned operations in the United States. The facility in Thoothukudi, Tamil Nadu, represents a USD 500 million investment and is designed to produce 150,000 vehicles annually.

Duong Thi Thu Trang, Deputy CEO of Global Automotives, VinFast, said, “Following a period of accelerated growth - achieving the No.1 position in Vietnam and establishing our presence in key regional markets - the completion of our three-brand structure lays the foundation for our next phase of development: structured, professional and breakthrough-driven. The Lac Hong 800S and 900S stand as further proof of VinFast’s technological mastery, product development capability and advanced manufacturing expertise. We believe products created by Vietnamese intellect, craftsmanship and resilience not only inspire national pride but also convey a powerful message about Vietnam’s cultural heritage and technological stature in this new era of global advancement.”

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Mercedes-Benz has introduced the all-new V-Class to the Indian market, a model poised to transform the landscape of private luxury transportation. This vehicle is designed to offer an ambiance of spaciousness, freedom and serenity, effectively functioning as a personal sanctuary for those who value both privacy and sophisticated comfort while traveling. By merging progressive design with exceptional roominess and lavish appointments, it establishes a new benchmark in its category.

The vehicle is built on an extended wheelbase platform (5,370 mm length, 3,430 mm wheelbase, 1,928 mm width, 1,880 mm height), which provides the foundation for its generous interior. Its primary focus is on creating what the brand describes as a 'Private Suite' on wheels, ensuring each journey is tailored to individual preferences. The cabin is configured with six seats, with the second row featuring premium individual seats equipped with ventilation, massage functionality, calf rests and integrated wireless charging. In a segment-first move, the third-row seats also offer ventilation, ensuring passenger comfort is prioritised throughout the vehicle. The front seats are fully electric and include ventilation and adjustable cushion length, establishing a commanding position for the driver.

The sensory experience within the V-Class is meticulously curated. A 64-color ambient lighting system allows passengers to personalise the cabin's mood, complemented by a high-fidelity Burmester surround sound system with 15 speakers. Climate comfort is managed by an advanced automatic system, and the ENERGIZING Comfort package offers a selection of up to 10 wellness programs that harmonise various in-car systems. Practical luxury is evident in the electrically operated sliding doors on both sides and the split tailgate, which can be controlled through multiple touchpoints for effortless access and loading in any situation.

The V-Class offers both petrol and diesel powertrain options, each paired with a nine-speed automatic transmission. It is the first market globally to offer the AIRMATIC air suspension system on both fuel types, ensuring a supremely comfortable ride across varying terrains. The vehicle's exterior is defined by the AMG Line package, featuring a distinctive radiator grille and LED lighting. Advanced technology includes the MBUX infotainment system, MULTIBEAM LED headlights that adapt to traffic and a comprehensive suite of driver assistance systems for safety and convenience. Available in five metallic exterior shades and two interior leather choices, the all-new V-Class represents a holistic approach to mobile luxury, combining space, technology, and personalized comfort in a locally produced package.

In a significant strategic development, Mercedes-Benz India will produce the new V-Class locally. This decision reinforces the company's long-standing dedication to the Indian market and follows the recent announcement of local production for another ultra-luxury model. The V-Class thus becomes the second high-end vehicle this year to be assembled domestically, underscoring the brand's commitment to deepening its roots in the country. Customer bookings are now open, with an initial deposit of INR 500,000 securing priority delivery and an introductory price for existing clientele.

Santosh Iyer, Managing Director & CEO, Mercedes-Benz India, said, “We are delighted to introduce the all-new V-Class for the Indian market, redefining the concept of a ‘private suite’ offering luxury, space and privacy to our exclusive customers. The V-Class addresses a growing trend amongst India’s opulent customers and trend setters, who seek an oasis of personal space, tranquillity and privacy while travelling in the lap of luxury. The decision to start the local production of the V-Class further reinforces our India commitment, adding significant value to our customers.”

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