Uber, India’s leading ride hailing app, has published its 2024 India Economic Impact Report, which was put together by Public First. The paper emphasises how Uber has significantly changed India's on-demand economy.

Uber Moto and Uber Auto have become indispensable services in India because of the growing popularity of two- and three-wheeler transportation for last-mile connectivity. As per the report, an estimated INR 360 billion in economic activity was supported by these services in 2024, underscoring Uber's important position in the nation's transportation system. By linking individuals to opportunities and employment, these services not only give commuters easy alternatives, but they also support economic growth in general.

According to the report, driver-partners will make an extra 60 percent a year in 2024 from Uber compared to their next best alternative form of employment. According to 70 percent of riders, it's simpler to try out new eateries and pubs, enhancing their local experiences. When compared to operating without a platform, Uber is thought to increase drivers' earnings by around 24 percent. According to 65 percent of Uber drivers, the app has increased their prospects.

While 84 percent of female passengers think that utilising Uber is the safest method to travel home, 95 percent of female riders say that safety is their main motivation for using the service. In general, 84 percent of Indians think that the app has raised the standard of transportation in their country.

Apart from the economic contributions, Uber has also contributed in easing the problem of congestion and pollution. A significant 74 percent of Delhi riders express a preference for electric vehicles, with 56 percent willing to choose an EV option even at a higher cost. Also, 93 percent of riders in Bengaluru consider time savings a key reason for using Uber, while 80 percent believe the service has improved travel speed.

Prabhjeet Singh, President, Uber India and South Asia, said: “We are committed to transforming the mobility landscape in India while driving economic growth. Our 2024 Economic Impact report highlights our role in supporting drivers, improving the travel experience of riders and promoting sustainable options. We are proud to have made a significant contribution to India’s economy, showing our commitment to connecting communities and creating livelihoods.”

German passenger vehicle manufacturer Volkswagen has announced the introduction of the Tiguan R-Line in India. The SUV features R-themed design elements, updated aerodynamics and enhanced functionality.

The Tiguan R-Line includes LED Plus headlights, a horizontal LED strip at the rear and 19-inch Coventry alloy wheels with diamond-turned surfaces. The front design incorporates a glass-covered horizontal strip and radiator grille openings positioned towards the outer edges of the front bumper.

Inside, the SUV gets an updated cockpit layout with R-Line inserts on the front sport seats and an illuminated R logo on the dashboard. The cabin includes ambient lighting with 30 colour options for the dashboard and door trims. A panoramic sunroof is also part of the design. Other features include an illuminated moulding between headlamps, rear combination lamps and illuminated door handle recesses. Pedals are finished in brushed stainless steel and the vehicle is equipped with roof rails and chrome-trimmed air intakes.

The Tiguan R-Line is equipped with seats that feature a massage function and adjustable lumbar support. It also includes Air Care Climatronic (3-zone), Park Assist Plus with Park Distance Control and wireless charging for two smartphones.

TATA.ev, the electric vehicle subsidiary of Tata Motors, has launched its electric vehicle portfolio in Mauritius in collaboration with automobile distributor Allied Motors.

With this, the company’s popular EV offerings the Tiago.ev, Punch.ev and Nexon.ev will be available for customers in Mauritius.

Yash Khandelwal, Head International Business, Tata Passenger Electric Mobility, said, “We are thrilled to introduce our electric vehicle portfolio in Mauritius, marking our first international expansion beyond the SAARC region. With the government’s strong commitment to sustainable mobility, Mauritius holds strategic importance in our EV journey. As a pioneer of the EV revolution in India and a proven success in SAARC markets, Tata.ev is well-positioned to support the country’s transition to electric mobility. Our diverse range of EVs—spanning multiple body styles and battery options—combined with an unmatched ownership experience and the strong partnership of Allied Motors, sets the stage for a transformative shift in Mauritius’ automotive landscape.”

James Ngan, Managing Director, Allied Motors, Mauritius, said, “Our partnership with Tata.ev is a game-changer for Mauritius, bringing an exceptional range of electric vehicles to a country that is ready to embrace sustainable and innovative mobility solutions. The new Tata.ev portfolio offers a perfect combination of power, efficiency, and advanced technology, giving consumers access to world-class electric mobility. Backed by our extensive service and after-sales support, we assure customers of a seamless ownership experience. This is just the beginning, and we are excited about the positive impact these EVs will have in revolutionising Mauritius’ automotive landscape.”

Hyundai Motor India, one of the leading passenger vehicle manufacturers in the country, has made strong headway in the country’s stock markets.

The carmaker which got listed on 22 October 2024, has now found its stock being included on NIFTY Next 50, NIFTY 100, NIFTY 500, S&P BSE 500 and other key capital market indices.

Unsoo Kim, Managing Director, Hyundai Motor India, said, “As a listed entity, we are elated to cross yet another important milestone. By becoming a part of prestigious Indian capital market indices such as the NIFTY Next 50 and S&P BSE 500, we have fortified HMIL’s standing in the Indian stock exchanges, reinforcing its market presence and credibility. As India grows, HMIL will continue to grow intrinsically with it, along with a constant focus on driving innovation, improving operational efficiencies, and making strategic investments that will strengthen our business outlook and contribute to the growth of the Indian economy.”

Interestingly, Hyundai Motor India’s debut on the stock exchange was also one of the largest Initial Public Offerings (IPO) in the country.

File photo: Hyundai Listing Ceremony

Maruti Suzuki India, the largest carmaker in the country, has announced a major investment of INR 74.1 billion towards a new under-construction plant with a capacity to produce 250,000 units per year.

This new facility will complement the company’s existing facility at Kharkoda plant, which went on stream in February 2025.

The new facility that is expected to go live by 2029 will expand the company’s manufacturing capabilities to 750,000 units per year. Maruti Suzuki India is optimistic that the demand for made-in-India passenger vehicles will continue both in the domestic as well as export markets.

The investment will be done through the company’s internal accruals.

Furthermore, Dr Tapan Sahoo, currently ED – Engineering will take on the additional responsibility of Digital Enterprise vertical.

On the other hand, the company announced that it has appointed Sunil Kakkar as an Director (Corporate Planning) for a period of three years till 31 March 2028.