Toyota Kirloskar Motor, a leading passenger vehicle manufacturer, has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the Zilla Parishad to upgrade the infrastructure of the Zilla Parishad Kendriya Prathamik School (ZPKPS) in Bidkin, Chhatrapati Sambhaji Nagar, Maharashtra.

The MoU was exchanged at the Collector Office in the presence of Deelip Swami, Collector and District Magistrate, Ankit, CEO of the Zilla Parishad, officials from the Education Department and senior Toyota Kirloskar Motor representatives including Sudeep Dalvi, Chief Communication Officer and Senior Vice-President.

This school development forms part of the automaker’s education-focused corporate social responsibility (CSR) activities and aligns with its recent investment to set up a greenfield manufacturing facility in Maharashtra.

ZPKPS Bidkin, a 100-year-old school currently serving over 800 students, is expected to see enrolment rise to around 1,200. The infrastructure project will be implemented in phases over three years, from 2025 to 2028.

Education continues to be a key area in Toyota Kirloskar Motor’s CSR work, which supports national initiatives such as Skill India and the National Education Policy. The company’s focus includes early childhood care, literacy, and access to learning resources.

Deelip Swami, said, “We welcome this collaboration with Toyota Kirloskar Motor to upgrade the infrastructure of ZPKPS Bidkin, a school that has been central to educating children from economically weaker sections in the region. With student numbers expected to grow significantly, this initiative comes at a crucial time and will greatly enhance the learning environment. Strengthening public education through such collaborative efforts is key to ensuring inclusive development. We appreciate Toyota’s proactive contribution toward this shared goal and are confident that the project will create lasting value for the children and the broader community of Bidkin.”

Sudeep Dalvi, said, “At Toyota Kirloskar Motor, our commitment to nation-building extends beyond mobility solutions. We firmly believe that education is one of the most powerful enablers of long-term, inclusive development. By creating a nurturing and modern learning environment for nearly 1,200 students, we are investing in the potential of future generations. This MoU reflects our continued collaboration with government stakeholders in delivering high-impact interventions that strengthen the social fabric of our communities. This initiative marks the beginning of our engagement in the state, as we move forward, our efforts will remain rooted in our core philosophy of ‘Creating Mobility for All’—that can transform lives and uplift entire communities.”

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Mahindra has unveiled a new, highly limited edition of its BE 6 Electric Origin SUV, drawing inspiration from Christopher Nolan's acclaimed The Dark Knight Trilogy. 

In a collaboration with Warner Bros. Discovery Global Consumer Products, the automaker has created a 300-unit limited-run vehicle that is being positioned as a unique collector's item, merging a passion for cinema with cutting-edge electric mobility and is priced at INR 2.77 million.

The BE 6 Batman Edition is far more than a simple re-badge. It is a meticulous reinterpretation of the vehicle, designed to evoke the aural and visual essence of the Caped Crusader's world. This special edition features an exclusive Custom Satin Black finish, complemented by Alchemy Gold-painted suspension and brake calipers, which provide a striking contrast and a touch of luxury. The Bat emblem, as seen in The Dark Knight Trilogy, is discreetly yet pervasively incorporated throughout the vehicle, from the hub caps and front quarter panels to the rear bumper and an illuminated 'Infinity Roof'. Even the welcome lights project the iconic symbol onto the ground.

Pratap Bose, Chief Design & Creative Officer at Mahindra & Mahindra, said, "The BE 6 has always been about boldness and forward thinking. With the Batman Edition, we wanted to go further — to create something so personal, so visually arresting, that owning it feels like owning a piece of cinematic history. We’ve obsessed over even the smallest detail, so that every time you look at it, you discover something new.”

Inside, the exclusivity continues with a brushed Alchemy Gold plaque on the dashboard, individually numbered to highlight the car's rarity. The cabin is upholstered in suede and leather with gold sepia accent stitching and an integrated Bat emblem, creating a rich and tactile experience. Gold accents are also found on the steering wheel, in-touch controller, and the custom key fob. For a truly immersive experience, the car features a Batman Edition welcome animation on the infotainment display and even custom Batman-inspired exterior engine sounds.

Vikram Sharma, Senior Vice-President at Warner Bros. Discovery Global Consumer Products, APAC, said, “Batman is more than a pop-culture icon – he represents innovation, resilience, and an unyielding drive to push boundaries. This collaboration brings that spirit to the road in a bold, electric way. With this limited-edition range, fans in India can now experience the thrill of Batman every time they drive. It’s a collector’s statement on wheels.”

The BE 6 Batman Edition is based on the top-of-the-range 79 kWh variant, ensuring that its performance is as impressive as its styling. Bookings for this highly sought-after vehicle will open on 23 August, with deliveries beginning on 20 September, in a nod to International Batman Day. This limited-run SUV is not merely a mode of transport; it is a tangible piece of pop culture history, reserved for those who want a story behind their steering wheel.

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Renault India, one of the leading passenger vehicle manufacturers, has inaugurated its new’R store in Vijayawada, Andhra Pradesh un,der its ‘renault. rethink.’ transformation strategy.

Francisco Hidalgo, Vice-President Sales & Marketing, Renault India, said, "Andhra Pradesh is a priority market for us with the encouraging response our products have received in the state. The opening of the new’R store in Vijayawada is a step forward in scaling up our business expansion under the renault. rethink. strategy, which focuses on delivering outstanding customer experiences while showcasing Renault’s global brand values tailored to local aspirations. As we continue to expand our footprint, we intend to set new benchmarks in automotive retail.”

The new facility is spread across 21,720 sqft, with a total showroom area of 5,400 sqft, with a dedicated five car display and delivery bay area.  

The new’R store features Renault's New Visual Identity (NVI), featuring a sleek black façade and an updated logo designed in line with global standards.

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Stellantis-owned Citroen India has launched the new C3X, an updated version of its popular SUV at introductory prices starting INR 525,000. The move is part of the company's ‘Shift Into the New’ strategic plan.

The new model comes with 15 new features designed to improve comfort, safety and convenience while maintaining its position as an accessible vehicle in its segment.

A standout new feature is the Proxi-Sense Passive Entry and Push Start system. Unlike conventional keyless entry, this technology automatically unlocks the car when the key is nearby and locks it as the driver walks away, offering true hands-free convenience. The C3X is also claimed to be the only SUV in its class to offer Cruise Control with a Speed Limiter, which is designed to make long motorway journeys more comfortable.

Additional enhancements include:

• An auto-dimming interior rear-view mirror for reduced glare.
• The HALO 360-degree camera system with seven viewing angles for improved visibility.
• Upgraded LED Vision projector headlamps and fog lamps.
• A comprehensive safety suite that now includes six airbags and a perimetric alarm system.

The new C3X maintains the distinct SUV-inspired design of the original model, with a 180mm ground clearance and a compact turning radius of 4.98m, making it suitable for both city and highway driving. It is available with two engine options: a 1.2L PureTech 82 naturally aspirated engine and a 1.2L PureTech 110 Direct Injection turbo engine. The turbo model can go from zero to 100 kmph in under 10 seconds and has an ARAI-certified fuel efficiency of 19.3 kmpl.

Inside, the car features a best-in-class cabin with a spacious 2,540mm wheelbase and theatre-style rear seating. The 26cm Citroen Connect Infotainment System offers wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. A new tropicalised automatic air-conditioning system is also included, which has been specifically designed to cope with India’s hot climate.

Shailesh Hazela, MD & CEO, Stellantis India, said, "With Citroen C3 range starting at the aggressive introductory price of INR 525,000, we’re redefining what value means in this segment. This is not just about affordability – it’s about delivering aspirational features, smart design, and robust performance at a price point that truly resonates with Indian customers. Living by the ethos of the brand – ‘For everyone like no one’ – we’ve pushed for even greater localisation to ensure the best value, lowest cost of ownership, and a product that feels truly made for India."

Kumar Priyesh, Business Head & Director – Automotive Brands, Stellantis India, said, “The New Citroen C3X represents our commitment to delivering premium features and meaningful innovation in a package that’s distinctly Citroen. With Proxi-Sense entry, Cruise Control with Speed Limiter and HALO 360 Camera, we’ve created a SUV that understands your routine, simplifies it, and elevates every moment behind the wheel. These upgrades don’t just speak to what’s expected – they reflect our belief in delighting the Indian customer through thoughtful engineering.”

The new C3X is now available to book at all Citroen dealerships across India, with deliveries set to begin in the first week of September 2025.

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European automaker Stellantis India has launched its second ‘Stellantis Brand House’ in Gujarat, bringing its Jeep and Citroen brands under one roof in Ahmedabad. This new showroom, located on the Sarkhej–Gandhinagar Highway, follows the debut of the dual-brand model in Surat.

The new facility aims to provide customers with a ‘phygital’ retail experience, combining both digital and physical elements. Visitors can explore the full lineup of both brands, including the Jeep Grand Cherokee, Wrangler, Meridian and Compass, as well as Citroen's offerings like the Basalt, e-C3, C3 and C3 Aircross.

Kumar Priyesh, Business Head and Director of Automotive Brands for Stellantis India, said, “Ahmedabad’s automotive landscape is vibrant and growing, making it the perfect location for our next Stellantis Brand House. This dual-brand facility is designed to serve the evolving preferences of today’s customers, offering the convenience of two premium brands, a seamless phygital experience, and world-class service – all in one destination. It reflects our ongoing commitment to building a strong, unified retail footprint in India.”

Sankalp Joisar, Dealer Principal, Stellantis Brand House Ahmedabad (Magnus Motors), said, “We are proud to be part of this transformative moment for automotive retail representing both Jeep and Citroën. The dual brand offering strategy allows us to offer an elevated and differentiated experience to customers—whether they're seeking rugged capability or refined comfort. Our team is committed to delivering the passion, professionalism, and personalized care that customers expect from global brands like these.”

The dealership is equipped with advanced infrastructure, including interactive digital tools like a 3D configurator, diagnostics and a full-service centre. Staff are trained by both Jeep and Citroen to provide specialised product knowledge and support to customers.

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