A global movement to celebrate e-mobility and a day to shift the transition to sustainable transport with consumer, business and policy outcomes, World EV day is a social media-led campaign to engage consumers around the sustainability benefits of EVs. In its inaugural year, World EV day is an initiative created by the media company, Green TV.

In an exclusive interaction with Jeetender Sharma, MD and Founder, Okinawa Motors, Motoring Trends correspondent learned that the Indian EV diaspora is going stronger than ever before. On the occasion of World EV day, Jeetender Sharma shares his views: “World EV day marks our greater ambition to make the challenging but much-needed shift from ICE to EVs. Seeing the clean blue-sky during lockdown was not just a matter of awe, but an alarm for us. Now we all have seen very clearly what we have lost and only our wiser choices can return our healthy environment back to us.  The auto industry was already going through a slow down before COVID 19 hit the markets and now it has taken a turn for even worse. Every industry, including the automobile industry had to suffer the blow. However, due to the outbreak people are now opting for their own vehicles. Post lockdown lift, we observed the trend wherein people wanted to own their vehicles that would ensure their safety. And for those who are now buying new vehicles, the fact that in long term EVs prove economically viable has caught their attention. This would lead the EVs to share a major slice in the overall revival of the auto industry. Technology and innovation only make sense when it follows environmental sustainability. Today, I urge every person to pledge to make the shift from conventional fuel run vehicle to electric vehicle.”

Every automobile manufacturer is putting in efforts to make their vehicle the smartest and the most sustainable in their respective segments and electric powertrain seems to be the ‘in-demand’ factor for the ‘smart vehicle’ buyers. Manufacturers are also expanding their portfolio to include electric motorcycles. Okinawa is aggressively pushing for its much-hyped Oki100 motorcycle to go on sale in this fiscal year. The motorcycle is targeted towards riders who prefer long journeys and powerful accelerations.

Right policies, Right regulations, Right Timeline
The Government plays a very crucial role in setting the path for expansion for the EV industry in India. The import and export are not in a very healthy state right now due to the pandemic. Post this, EV manufacturers are looking for support from the government in terms of tax rebates and financial support to businessmen who are into exports business. Consideration on import duty on certain components used in EVs would boost the EV market in India. Even though a lot has already been done by the government it needs to be further expanded and communicated in the Indian manufacturing sector to boost the morales and sentiments of the consumers during this pandemic.

Jeetender Sharma, as an EV manufacturer and having been active in the automotive industry for the past two decades, opines, “Earlier in 2015-2017 most of the electric vehicle industry players were importing CKD (Completely Knocked Down) units only. However, with strict norms and FAME 2 in place, things improved and industry players started localising to a certain extent. To become Atmanirbhar (self reliant) there needs to be a two-way strategy- strictness on localisation and boosting the local manufacturers. Only when strict norms are brought EV players will be pushed towards localizing across the segments. Once taxes and rebates motivate the local manufacturers and suppliers, they will be lured to innovate further. In terms of battery, currently battery cells are not available in India. These are mostly imported from Japan, China, and few other countries. Though there is rigorous research going on in India to manufacture the battery cells locally, once the research is supported by government authorities and provided with the right economic influx, we will be able to avail faster results. Localisation of Okinawa is already more than 92 percent and with Oki 100,  it will be 100 percent. We are increasing our supplier base in India and within a couple of years we will have the full ecosystem within India only.”

With Indigenous products like the Ridge, the Praise, iPraise+, R30, Lite series, Praise PRO, Ridge+ in the market, Okinawa has introduced detachable lithium-ion batteries and its own patented permanent magnetic BLDC motor and microprocessor controller for electric two-wheelers. Okinawa aims to expand its dealership network to 500 from the current 350. Okinawa has revealed that it retailed 1,000 units in just 30 days post the lockdown lift and is very aspirational for the upcoming festive seasons.

Okinawa claims that it has collectively reduced around 90 million kgs of CO2 through the 84,000 electric scooters it has sold in India since its inception. This would be equivalent to over 3 million full grown plants.

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Royal Enfield has launched a refreshed version of its popular cruiser, the Meteor 350 with prices starting INR 195,762 for the Fireball variant.

It comes in four distinct variants – Fireball, Stellar, Aurora, and Supernova – with seven new colour options. All models are powered by the same 349cc air-cooled 'J-series' engine, which produces 20.2 bhp and 27 Nm of torque. However, the new line-up features several standard upgrades: LED headlamps, Tripper pod for navigation, LED turn indicators, USB Type-C fast-charging port, Assist-and-slip clutch and Adjustable levers.

The Fireball and Stellar variants now include the LED headlamps and Tripper pod as standard features. Meanwhile, the top-tier Supernova and Aurora models now come with adjustable levers, making them fully-equipped for long-distance touring.

Royal Enfield has also revamped the aesthetics of the Meteor 350 with new colour schemes tailored to different rider preferences. The Supernova variant now offers modern colours with chrome finishes, while the Aurora variant features heritage-inspired schemes for a retro feel. The Stellar and Fireball variants, with their subtle and vibrant colours respectively, are aimed at younger riders seeking a solo, free-spirited experience.

B Govindarajan, Managing Director and CEO, Eicher Motors, said, “For decades, Royal Enfield's philosophy of pure, unadulterated riding has strongly resonated with many riders across geographies. The launch of the Meteor 350 back in the year 2020 has brought in a new generation of riders who seek a distinct identity on the road. Today, it has become a preferred choice for those who value the cruiser aesthetic and a laid-back style of riding, be it for quick city errands or for longer explorations beyond the city limits. The Meteor 350 is not just a motorcycle, but a lifestyle statement for relaxed journeys and memorable experiences on the open road. We are super excited to bring the refreshed and updated version of the Meteor 350 portfolio which we believe will further elevate the experience of our community."

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Suzuki Motorcycle India Private Ltd. (SMIPL), a subsidiary of Japan’s Suzuki Motor Corporation, has announced a new strategic partnership with Jana Small Finance Bank (JSFB), a rapidly growing institution in vehicle financing. This collaboration is designed to significantly improve customer access to financing for Suzuki's range of scooters and motorcycles across both urban and rural Indian markets.

By uniting SMIPL's widespread dealer network with JSFB's strong national presence, the alliance aims to make ownership more attainable. A key benefit for customers will be access to highly competitive financial products, which include attractive interest rates and expedited loan approvals that require minimal documentation. The partnership also promises to deliver flexibility through tailored repayment plans structured to suit a wide variety of individual financial situations.

Further enhancing the experience, JSFB will provide digital application platforms, continuous operational support, and the convenience of pre-approved loan offers. This comprehensive approach is intended to create a seamless, efficient and entirely transparent financing journey for every customer, from initial inquiry to final payment. The memorandum of understanding was formally executed by senior leadership from both organisations.

Deepak Mutreja, Vice-President, Sales & Marketing, Suzuki Motorcycle India Private Ltd., said, “Customer convenience remains at the heart of everything we do at Suzuki Motorcycle India. Our association with Jana Small Finance Bank will expand financing options and bring added flexibility for two-wheeler customers across India. Through this partnership, we will also be able to deepen our presence in newer markets and benefit from JSFB’s vast network, particularly in tier-2 and tier-3 cities, allowing more customers to experience the joy of owning their favourite Suzuki two-wheeler.”

Pradeep Rebello, Business Head – Vehicle Loans, Jana Small Finance Bank, said, “At Jana Bank, we are committed to making financial inclusion a reality for millions. Our distribution with 809 branches, 4.6 million customers spread across 25 states coupled with this important partnership with Suzuki Motorcycle India allows us to serve our customers better by providing affordable and seamless financing for two-wheelers. With our digital-first processes, we ensure that every customer enjoys convenience, speed and trust in their loan journey. Our ability to support Suzuki’s expansive customer base demonstrates the power of our nationwide presence and dedication to delivering modern, inclusive banking solutions for all Indians.”

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Hero MotoCorp, the world’s largest manufacturer of motorcycles and scooters, has appointed Harshavardhan Chitale as its new Chief Executive Officer (CEO). The appointment, approved by the Board of Directors, is effective starting 5 January 2026.

Chitale brings more than three decades of global leadership experience to the role, with a strong background in industrial automation, digital transformation and information technology.

He has previously held senior executive positions at several multinational corporations, including serving as Global CEO of Signify's Professional Business, a leader in lighting solutions. During his time at Signify, Chitale led a global workforce of 12,000 employees and was credited with doubling the business’s profitability.

Dr Pawan Munjal, Executive Chairman, Hero MotoCorp, said, “Harsh’s outstanding track record in driving growth, fostering innovation, and leading global transformation makes him the ideal leader for Hero MotoCorp at this pivotal moment. His vision and dynamism will accelerate our journey across electric and emerging mobility, premiumisation, digitalisation, sustainability and organisational renewal – shaping the future of mobility and beyond. With Harsh at the helm, Hero MotoCorp is well-positioned to realise its full potential and deliver enduring value to shareholders, customers, employees and society at large.”

Chitale's past roles also include Vice Chairman & Managing Director of Philips Lighting India and leadership positions at HCL Infosystems and Honeywell Automation India. He is also an alumnus of the Indian Institute of Technology, Delhi, and an active angel investor in sectors like EVs and clean energy.

As part of the transition, Vikram Kasbekar, who served as Acting CEO, will work closely with Chitale to ensure a smooth handover. Kasbekar will continue to serve on the board as Executive Director and Chief Technology Officer.

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Celebrating two decades of its flagship motorcycle, TVS Apache, TVS Motor Company has launched special limited-edition variants and new top-tier trims for its entire lineup. This anniversary launch encompasses the RTR 160, 180, 200, 310 and RR310, reinforcing the brand's position in the sports motorcycle segment.

The commemorative models are distinguished by an exclusive black-champagne-gold livery, dual-tone alloy wheels, a dedicated 20-year logo and a first-ever USB charger for the Apache series, making them distinctive collector's items. Alongside these celebratory editions, TVS has introduced new top-of-the-line 4V variants for the RTR 160 and RTR 200. These new trims are equipped with significant technological upgrades, including cutting-edge Class-D projector headlamps with LED DRLs, full LED lighting and a sophisticated 5-inch Bluetooth-connected TFT display. They also introduce advanced performance features like a Traction Control System and an assist and slipper clutch, enhancing both safety and riding dynamics.

Since its inception in 2005, the TVS Apache brand has been defined by its track-to-road philosophy, transferring race-bred technologies from TVS Racing directly to consumers. This approach has cemented its reputation for performance and innovation, making it a preferred choice for over 6.5 million riders globally. The new models continue this legacy, offering powerful engines acclaimed as best-in-class, along with segment-first amenities such as multiple ride modes and dual-channel ABS.

The new celebratory editions and the enhanced 4V variants are now available at introductory ex-showroom prices, with bookings officially open. This launch not only honours the motorcycle's 20-year history but also propels the Apache brand forward with a strengthened commitment to design excellence, technological leadership and a rider-centric philosophy. The prices are given below:

K N Radhakrishnan, Director and CEO, TVS Motor Company, said, “We are deeply grateful to the 6.5 million-strong TVS Apache community across the world whose unwavering trust and passion have shaped our journey over the last two decades. Their love for performance and adrenaline has propelled TVS Apache to become one of the fastest growing sports motorcycle brands, globally. This milestone belongs to every member of the TVSM family – our engineers, designers, factory teams, dealers, suppliers and partners – who push the limits of innovation every day. As we look ahead, we remain focused on carrying forward the Apache legacy by entering new segments, expanding into more markets and creating communities that inspire the next generation of riders.”

Vimal Sumbly, Head Business – Premium, TVS Motor Company, said, “For two decades, TVS Apache has been the torchbearer of performance and innovation, and this milestone belongs to every rider who made it part of their journey. To mark 20 years of this legacy, we now introduce a Limited Anniversary Edition along with the all-new top-end variants of the TVS Apache RTR 160 4V and TVS Apache RTR 200 4V – crafted to inspire the next generation of motorcyclists. This achievement is a celebration of the entire TVS Apache family – a global community united by passion, performance and an unstoppable riding spirit.”

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