Q) What was the inspiration behind Yulu?

Amit Gupta: Ideally, Yulu was my brain-child, but Yulu holds the position of being the largest e-mobility player in India today only because of our dream team, which came along with the other co-founders who have their own expertise in technology, operations, and EV ecosystem to enhance the product offering further, so that the commuters have a great experience. The impact of air pollution and traffic congestion on the environment was a worrying trend that we commonly wanted to address through technology.

Our vision is to decongest urban traffic by providing a highly scalable, affordable, efficient, and clean mode for the first and last mile connectivity and short distance commute. The future of mobility is safe, smart, shared, sustainable, and small and electric vehicles have a big role in this transition. Hence, the idea of smaller and efficient clean energy vehicles was an obvious route that we chose.

Q) How was the Miracle conceived?

Amit Gupta: After launching the Yulu Move, we found that the average distance travelled by bicycle was two km and Yulu bicycles were mostly not used by people who had to ride between three and five km. There were several explanations for this: it was too hot, the trip was too long, they didn’t want to cycle so much, or they wanted a quicker way of commuting.

That’s when the team began thinking about a product on electric mobility. Yulu launched its electric scooter – Yulu Miracle – in Bangalore in 2019. Yulu’s vision is to provide shared, smart and sustainable urban e-mobility solution which is seamlessly integrated with public transport with an objective to drastically reduce congestion and pollution and improve economic productivity. Our mobility solutions are special; they are created for shared economy and solo-ridership.

Q) How does Yulu Business Model caters to the issues in Indian EV Ecosystem faces?

Amit Gupta:

Solved for Battery Charging Infrastructure:

Yulu has solved the ‘chicken and egg’ problem faced by the electric vehicle ecosystem in India, where the lack of charging infrastructure influences the advent of EVs, and vice versa. The company has created a unique battery-swapping network by placing its proprietary IoT-enabled charging box (Yulu Max) at hundreds of mom-n-pop stores across its operational areas. Yulu’s on-ground Ops team is able to locate the nearest Yulu Max which has charged batteries using a dedicated app for the Ops team. The same app shows the set of vehicles that have a battery-charge level below a defined threshold along with their real-time location. This method is low cost and highly scalable.

Solved for Parking Infrastructure:

Unlike China, Indian cities don’t have the infrastructure for parking of shared mobility vehicles. Yulu has solved this problem by working with cities, corporates and citizens who have given access to prime real estate to create Yulu Zones. Most of these spots have been given to Yulu in kind to help build sustainable mobility for the cities in a collaborative manner. Yulu has been able to replicate this model in every city it operates.

Solved for the Safety of the Assets:

Yulu Miracle has a theft rate of less than one percent, which is significantly lower than global ride-sharing platforms. This is attributable to Yulu’s operational model of drop off at designated Yulu Zones and a human network of local informers and ‘well-wishers’ who tip off its Ops team in case of any potential abuse or theft incident. Further, as the Yulu Miracle was designed specifically for shared mobility, it has no ‘standard’ parts which could be used in other bikes in the market, so there is economic value for someone stealing them. Additionally, Yulu has deployed a team of ‘bike-marshals’ who ensure strong consequence-management actions when they catch someone doing wrong with its fleet.

Solved for High Durability:

Yulu Miracle has been built keeping in mind the convenience of users on Indian roads, ease of maintenance for the on-ground Ops team and durability to be used in a shared mobility model. The minimal use of plastic parts and regular proactive maintenance activities have ensured that the Miracles are in good working condition at all times. The first batch of Miracles deployed in Bangalore, which have been on the road for over seven months, has shown no sign of a reduction in asset quality.

Q) Can we expect any newer models in your range?

Amit Gupta: We have two models deployed on road, while we are working on a few hybrid and high-speed models. (MT)

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In a special Navratri initiative, BSA Motorcycles is extending a celebratory offer to the first 500 customers who purchase its flagship Gold Star 650 model. This promotion allows buyers to acquire the motorcycle at its original pre-GST 2.0 price point, with BSA absorbing the recent tax increase. Additionally, each of these customers will receive an exclusive 'Goldie kit', a curated collection of accessories designed to enhance the riding experience.

The recent GST revision, effective from late September 2025, raised the tax levy on motorcycles with engine capacities exceeding 350 cc from 28 to 40 percent. While this has led to price adjustments across the premium motorcycle segment, BSA's limited-time offer ensures that enthusiasts can avoid this additional cost. The Gold Star will be available at ex-showroom Delhi prices starting from INR 309,990 for the Highland Green and Insignia Red variants, with other colour options like Shadow Black and Legacy Sheen Silver priced up to INR 344,990.

The complimentary accessory kit, valued at INR 5,900, includes practical and stylish components such as a tall touring windscreen, a pillion backrest, a metal exhaust shield and a rear rail. This package adds both purpose and aesthetic appeal to the motorcycle, which is already celebrated for its authentic British design heritage. The Gold Star features classic cues like a rounded fuel tank with the iconic BSA badge, polished metal accents and a timeless café racer silhouette, all complemented by modern elements including LED lighting and wire-spoke wheels.

At the heart of the Gold Star is a refined 652 cc single-cylinder engine that produces 45 horsepower and 55 Nm of torque, paired with a 5-speed gearbox. Its engineering prioritises a smooth and confident ride, supported by features like dual-channel ABS, a double-cradle chassis and premium suspension. For prospective buyers, attractive finance options are available, including interest rates starting from 5.99 percent, a zero down payment plan and loan tenures of up to six years.

Ownership is further supported by the Jawa Yezdi BSA Ownership Assurance Programme, which provides a standard four-year or 50,000-kilometre warranty, with options to extend coverage. This commitment, backed by a network of over 400 sales and service touchpoints, underscores the brand's dedication to its community of motorcycling purists. This festive offer is designed not just as a purchase incentive but as a tribute to those who see the open road as a place of belonging.

Sharad Agarwal, Chief Business Officer, Classic Legends, said, “The BSA Gold Star has garnered a loyal following since its launch in India, redefining motorcycling as a lifestyle rather than just a mode of transport. By holding our prices steady post-GST 2.0 for our first 500 buyers and pairing it with our festive initiative, we invite more enthusiasts to embrace this lifestyle without compromise.”

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Hero MotoCorp, the world’s largest two-wheeler manufacturer, and Thums Up, one of India’s leading soft drink brands under The Coca-Cola Company, have launched Thunderwheels 2.0 campaign.

The partners stated that following the success of last year’s collaboration, the new Thunderwheels 2.0 initiative brings an opportunity for consumers to win the all-new Hero Xtreme 250R motorcycle. The consumers have to scan QR codes on the special edition Thums Up packs to win a chance to own the Xtreme 250R.

Aashish Midha, Head of Marketing – India BU, Hero MotoCorp said, “The phenomenal response to Thunderwheels last year reaffirmed how deeply this initiative connects with the new generation of riders. Today’s youth want machines that reflect their individuality, confidence, and passion. With the Xtreme 250R, Hero MotoCorp is delivering a motorcycle built for agility, power, and style—designed for those who ride with intent. Our partnership with Thums Up amplifies this spirit, creating a shared culture of boldness, self-expression, and unstoppable energy on the road.”  

Sumeli Chatterjee, Category Head – Sparkling Flavours, Coca-Cola India and South-West Asia, said, “Every experience by Thums Up is built to fuel adrenaline and push boundaries. Thums Up ThunderWheels 2.0, in partnership with Hero MotoCorp’s Xtreme 250R, is built for the riders and thrill seekers who want to push the boundaries and be unstoppable in their dreams. For us, this partnership is all about engaging with young consumers in the spaces that matter most to them. Taste the Thunder and scan the pack to unlock action packed series of raw, real, and energetic experiences.”

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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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