Toyota Kirloskar Motor (TKM) has launched the Vellfire luxury MPV in India with self-charging hybrid technology. It is frugal and less emitting as a strong hybrid electric vehicle (SHEV). It can run 40 percent of the distance and 60 percent of the time on electric or zero-emission mode with the engine off. 

Based on Toyota's TNGA platform (GA-K), which provides enhanced rigidity and stability, the Vellfire is powered by a 2.5-litre in-line four-cylinder petrol engine coupled with an electric motor and a hybrid battery. The fuel efficiency claimed by the automaker is 19.28 kmpl.  

As a luxury MPV, the Vellfire has a highly optimised interior layout with increased seat spacing. It also has innovative features like the super-long overhead console. The cabin, plush for luxury travel, can seat up to 7 passengers in high comfort.  

There are exceptionally spacious captain seats in the second row, complete with an Ottoman and massage functionality. The genuine leather seats offer memory foam for added comfort. 

Featuring Toyota Safety Sense and has 60 connected features, the luxury vehicle is available in Hi-Grade and VIP-Grade trims. The premium dual-tone dashboard is adorned with leather accents and wooden inserts. Priced at INR 12 million (ex-showroom), the Vellfire is equipped with safety features such as Pre-Collision Safety system, Adaptive Cruise Control, Adaptive High Beam LED Headlamps, Lane Trace Assist, Blind Spot Monitor, Panoramic View Monitor, Vehicle Stability Control, Stop Hold Function, Impact Sensing Fuel Cut and disc brakes at all four wheels with ABS and EBD.  

Masakazu Yoshimura, Managing Director and CEO, Toyota Kirloskar Motor, said, “Today marks a momentous milestone in our India journey as we introduce the All-New Vellfire, a symbol of Toyota's class-leading technology, comfort and elegance. We are thrilled to present this masterpiece to the customers which represents the pinnacle of luxury while embracing a greener future. This further reflects our relentless efforts, by adopting multiple pathways towards realising ‘Carbon Neutrality’, and in line with the direction of the ‘Government of India’. We remain steadfast in our pursuit of mass electrification and offering sustainable mobility, as we strive to create a better tomorrow for all.” 

Atul Sood, Vice President – Sales and Strategic Marketing, Toyota Kirloskar Motor, mentioned, “The introduction of the all-new Vellfire in the India market signifies a remarkable milestone in our pursuit of excellence. We understand the discerning preferences of the market and strive to push boundaries and set new benchmarks in the automotive industry. The all-new Vellfire, with its refined aesthetics and advanced features, brings a new level of opulence and sophistication. The vehicle’s spacious interiors provide a haven of relaxation and indulgence, allowing passengers to truly immerse themselves in a world of luxury. With unique design interfaces and intuitive controls, every aspect of this new model is crafted to make driving effortless and enjoyable.” 

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Kia India has announced a significant change to its leadership team, naming Sunhack Park as Chief Sales Officer (CSO) and Joonsu Cho as Chief Business Officer (CBO).

As the new CSO, Park will head Kia India’s sales strategy, focusing on sustainable growth, improving operational efficiency and expanding the brand’s market reach. He brings over 28 years of international automotive experience, having held key leadership positions at Kia Headquarters in South Korea, the Middle East & Africa (MEA) and India.

Cho, in his role as CBO, will be responsible for crafting business strategies, overseeing production planning and export logistics, leading cross-functional teams and forging strategic alliances to ensure operational excellence. He has over 32 years of leadership experience from global roles in Australia, the UK and Europe.

Sunhack Park, said, “I am privileged to take on the role as Chief Sales Officer. This is an exciting phase for the brand as we continue to expand our presence in a dynamic and evolving market. My focus will be on driving sales growth, optimizing operational efficiency, and strengthening our dealer and partner ecosystem.”

Joonsu Cho, said, “I am honored to assume the role of Chief Business Officer. Kia India has made remarkable strides in the market, and my priority will be to develop and execute robust business strategies that support sustainable growth and operational excellence.”

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RattanIndia Enterprises-owned Revolt Motors, a leading electric motorcycle brand, is strengthening its leadership team and has appointed Raghava Rao as its new Chief Business Officer (CBO).

Rao, a seasoned industry leader, comes with over two decades of diverse experience across the automotive sector, spanning two-wheelers, tractors, three-wheelers and commercial vehicles.

Prior to joining Revolt Motors, he has held senior leadership positions at Kinetic Engineering, Bajaj Auto, Tata Motors, Piaggio Vehicles and TI Clean Mobility (Montra Electric).

Roy Kurian Joins Revolt Motors As President

Rao has expertise in channel sales, customer support, customer experience and market insights, with a proven track record of driving business growth and customer success.

Anjali Rattan, Chairperson, RattanIndia Enterprises, said, “We are delighted to welcome Raghava Rao to the Revolt family. His deep expertise in the automotive industry and proven leadership across multiple business functions will play a crucial role in accelerating our growth journey and further strengthening Revolt’s position as India’s No.1 electric motorcycle brand.”

Rao is an alumnus of the Indian School of Business (General Management Program), holds a B.Tech degree from BITS Pilani, and a PGCSM from XLRI Jamshedpur.

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Mumbai-headquartered SUV major Mahindra & Mahindra has launched the new Thar with prices starting at INR 999,000. The vehicle incorporates design changes, comfort features and technology integration, engineered for urban travel and weekend adventures.

The popular SUV has gone home to over 300,000 customers, now features a new exterior, which includes a front grille, a dual-tone front bumper and R18 alloy wheels. The interior includes a black theme dashboard and a new steering wheel. It is available in six colour options, including two new additions: Tango Red and Battleship Grey.

For comfort and convenience, the Thar features rear AC vents for second-row passengers, a sliding armrest and a dead pedal (automatic transmission models). Door-mounted power windows, a rear-view camera and an internally operated fuel lid are included. The vehicle also has a rear wash & wiper and an A-Pillar entry assist handle.

The Thar is equipped with a 26.03 cm HD infotainment screen that supports Android Auto and Apple CarPlay. Other tech includes Type-C USB ports and Adventure Stats Gen II, which provides off-road data such as a racing tab, altimeter, outside temperature and pressure, trip meter and steering direction.

Mahindra offers a range of engine options paired with transmissions – a 6-speed manual or a 6-speed torque converter automatic – in RWD as well as 4X4 configurations.

Nalinikanth Gollagunta, CEO - Automotive Division, Mahindra & Mahindra, said, “Over the years, Thar has become more than just an SUV – it’s a symbol of freedom, adventure, and a lifestyle that resonates deeply with our customers. At Mahindra, we are committed to listening to our customers and evolving with their needs, which is why the New Thar reflects both their feedback and our dedication to provide the best to our customers. By blending new design elements, smart technology, enhanced comfort and convenience features, the new Thar offers an unparalleled driving experience that empowers our customers to explore limitless possibilities in both urban and off-road settings.”

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Stellantis-owned Citroen India has launched the new Aircross X SUV, the latest addition to its premium X-Series portfolio, with an introductory price starting at INR 829,000. The launch, the company said, is a key step in the brand’s Citroen 2.0 ‘Shift Into the New’ strategy, positioning the SUV as a feature-rich, spacious option for Indian customers.

The new Aircross X elevates its segment with significant interior and technology upgrades. The cabin features an enriched design with a leatherette-wrapped instrument panel, chic gold accents and a bezel-less 10.25-inch infotainment screen paired with a 7-inch digital cluster. Comfort is enhanced with ventilated leatherette seats, diffused ambient lighting and the brand’s signature Advanced Comfort Suspension.

A standout feature is the introduction of CARA, billed as India’s first multilingual, intuitive in-car companion. CARA can communicate in 52 languages, control essential vehicle functions and prioritise safety with voice SOS and crash alerts. Driving convenience is further improved with Proxi-Sense Passive Entry, Cruise Control and a HALO 360deg Camera with Satellite View.

Emphasising the model’s safety credentials, the launch follows the recent 5-star Adult protection rating awarded to the Aircross 5S variant in the Bharat New Car Assessment Program (BNCAP).

The New Aircross X is available in 5- and 7-seater configurations with options for both ICE and CNG engines. Bookings are now open across all Citroen dealerships and online.

Kumar Priyesh, Business Head & Director – Automotive Brands, Stellantis India, said, “The new Aircross X is an SUV designed around the real needs of Indian families – space, comfort, safety and smart innovation. With the debut of CARA, we’re making everyday mobility more intuitive and personal. What makes the New Aircross X unique is that it blends the practicality of a family SUV with the premium feel of our X-Series design. It is a versatile SUV that’s aspirational, yet accessible.”

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