India’s urban transportation landscape is poised for a significant shift as Rapido reveals its ambitious 500-city expansion plan at the Bharat Mobility Expo 2025, which began on January 17th. The company’s participation in the expo highlights its dedication to fostering economic empowerment and improving connectivity through accessible, convenient transportation solutions.

Already operating in over 120 cities and having facilitated over 200 crore rides, Rapido’s expansion will roll out in phases, starting in February across Karnataka, Gujarat, Tamil Nadu, West Bengal, and Rajasthan. This will be followed by a gradual expansion to states such as Punjab, Haryana, Uttar Pradesh, and Uttarakhand, addressing the diverse transportation needs of a rapidly evolving India. With INR 151.11 billion earned by its Captains since inception and facilitating 3.6 million daily rides, Rapido continues to be a major player in India’s urban mobility sector.

Co-founder Pavan Guntupalli noted, “The Bharat Mobility Expo offers an essential platform to discuss the future of transportation in India. We’re excited to share how technology can drive positive social and economic impact. Our expansion to 500 cities is a testament to our commitment to empowering individuals and creating a more connected India.”

Chennai-headquartered two-wheeler major TVS Motor Company has further strengthened its partnership with Petronas Lubricants International (PLI) to drive further promotion and support the Indian motorsport landscape.

As per the understanding, PLI will continue to be the title sponsor of TVS Racing – the country’s first factory racing team – for the next three years. PLI will support the team’s participation in the Indian National Supercross Championship (INSC), Indian National Rally Championship (INRC) and Indian National Motorcycle Racing Championship (INMRC).

Petronas was the title sponsor of TVS Racing across the 2022-2023 season and continues as the official supplier of aftermarket oils to TVS Motor Co’s extensive dealership network. The company supplies Petronas TVS TRU4 product range in premium semi and full synthetic lubricants designed for high-performance TVS motorcycles.

Vimal Sumbly, Head Business – Premium, TVS Motor Company, said, “TVS Racing is a pioneer of motorsports in India and has consistently secured more than 80 percent win rate across multiple formats of racing. This racing pedigree directly influences our Apache series, bringing race-derived performance and technology to our customers. With over four decades, TVS Racing has played a pivotal role in democratising motorsports in India and nurturing world-class talent with its programs like the TVS One Make Championship. Strengthening our partnership with PLI underscores our shared commitment to pushing the boundaries of performance and innovation. Their cutting-edge technology and experience in premier racing events perfectly compliments our vision for the sport. PLI’s expertise in fluid technology, combined with our racing heritage, will continue to shape the future of two-wheeler racing in India.”

Binu Chandy, Chief Executive Officer, Petronas Lubricants India, said, “Our collaboration with TVS Racing has been instrumental in demonstrating the synergy between high-performance lubricants and motorsport excellence. This partnership not only strengthens our presence in India’s dynamic two-wheeler market but also aligns with our broader energy ambitions in the country. Our motorsports legacy, combined with TVS Racing’s dominance in Indian motorsports for over 40 years, positions us to drive the sport forward. We are excited to support TVS Racing as we continue this journey together.”

Indian Supercross Racing League (ISRL), a leading motorsport event, has announced that it has on boarded leading Bollywood actor Salman Khan as its official brand ambassador.

The motorsport event is optimistic that, with its new brand ambassador, the Indian Supercross Racing League will reach newer audiences and popularise the sport in the country.

The inaugural season saw over 30,000 people attend the event physically, while 11.5 million viewership was achieved through broadcast. Team BigRock Motorsports, led by India's Dakar pioneer CS Santosh, emerged as champions, setting a high standard for competition.

The second season of ISRL promises to have a much wider experience, with Salman Khan at the forefront, making the sport more accessible and engaging for fans of all ages. The competition will see participation from 48 of the world's leading riders, including international legends Jordie Tixier, Matt Moss and Anthony Raynard, competing across multiple categories.

"I am very excited to be a part of something I am truly passionate about—motorcycles and motorsports. What ISRL is building is truly revolutionary with a long-term vision. The league has immense entertainment value and captures the spirit of igniting passion, showcasing skill, and creating heroes who will inspire the next generation. Together, we're set to make Supercross a household name in India and elevate our riders to the global stage," said Salman Khan.

Veer Patel, Managing Director, ISRL, said, "Welcoming Salman Khan to the ISRL family is a landmark moment for motorsports in India. As motorsports continue to gain worldwide traction, the Indian Supercross Racing League has firmly placed India on the global motorsports map. This collaboration reflects our shared ambition to elevate Indian motorsports to unparalleled heights. With his presence at the races, active participation, and guidance, we are spearheading a motorsport revolution that will inspire generations of Indian riders and position India as a premier global Supercross destination."

Vikram Tanwar, Co-founder, UBT (Talent management company of Salman Khan), said 'We witnessed the immense success of ISRL Season 1, with top Indian and global-ranked riders showcasing incredible talent. We structured this association to help elevate the league to new heights and for it to flourish in India. Salman Khan's immense appeal across diverse demographics will be instrumental in introducing the electrifying world of Supercross to millions of new fans.

Eeshan Lokhande, Co-founder and Director, ISRL, said, “Salman Khan’s association with ISRL is a monumental step in bringing Supercross into the mainstream, bridging the gap between Indian brands and the global legacy of this exhilarating sport. With his massive reach and deep connection with fans across the country will drive brands across India to be a part of this high-adrenaline journey. Heroes of the sport will be made, and Supercross will find its true home in India. We will write the next chapter of Supercross, making every Indian proud on the global stage.”

Chennai-headquartered mid-sized motorcycle major Royal Enfield has launched its all-new mobile app in collaboration with Onething Design, to strengthen its digital footprint.

The app is designed to enhance the rider experience, which is based on the Make It Yours (MIY) platform. This the company claims is an industry-first customisation tool that allows riders to personalise their Royal Enfield motorcycles – from colour selection to accessories and seating – through their mobile devices. This means customers can personalise their motorcycles even before entering a Royal Enfield dealership.

Furthermore, the app also provides community engagement where riders can discover, plan and participate in Royal Enfield rides alongside fellow enthusiasts. They can also book services, access maintenance history and important vehicle documents.

Jatin Chikara, Head - Digital Marketing and CRM at Royal Enfield, said, “Royal Enfield is not just about motorcycles; it’s an emotion, a way of life. We endeavour to deliver an experience as rich as riding a motorcycle to our riders on digital touch points, making every interaction intuitive and meaningful. Onething Design has been a key partner in this journey, helping us create a seamless and engaging platform that truly reflects the Royal Enfield philosophy” 

Divanshu Thakral, Co-Founder, Onething Design, added, “Designing for an iconic brand like Royal Enfield comes with the responsibility of respecting its legacy while elevating its digital presence. Our focus was on crafting an experience that feels as effortless and exhilarating as riding a Royal Enfield itself. We’re thrilled to see the new platform empower riders with a seamless, immersive experience.” 

India Yamaha Motor (IYM), a leading motorcycle & scooter manufacturer in the country, has launched what it claims is its first-ever hybrid motorcycle – the 2025 FZ-S Fi Hybrid at INR 144,800 (ex-showroom Delhi).

The motorcycle is powered by an OBD-2 B-compliant 149cc Blue Core engine and comes with Yamaha’s Smart Motor Generator (SMG) and Stop & Start System (SSS). The company shared these, which not only provide quieter starts and battery-assisted acceleration but also enhance fuel efficiency by automatically shutting off the engine at idle and restarting with a quick clutch action.

The 2025 FZ-S Fi Hybrid comes with a 4.2-inch full-colour TFT instrument cluster, which can be connected with smartphones using the Y-Connect app. It offers Turn-by-Turn (TBT) navigation linked to Google Maps. The motorcycle handlebar has now been optimised for more comfort, switches adjusted for better accessibility, repositioned horn switch for ease of use and an airplane-style fuel cap.

Itaru Otani, Chairman, Yamaha Motor India Group, said, “The FZ brand has played a crucial role in Yamaha’s journey in India, evolving with every generation to meet the changing expectations and practical requirements of our customers. By introducing hybrid technology in this segment, we are not only elevating performance but also reinforcing our commitment to bringing advanced, rider-focused innovations. Every update to the FZ series has been shaped by customer insights, ensuring a more refined, dynamic, and engaging riding experience. This launch is a testament to Yamaha’s commitment to innovation, where advanced technology and rider-centric design come together to shape the future of mobility.”