Auto Sector

CARS24, a prominent global marketplace for used vehicles, has strengthened its digital mobility strategy by acquiring an automotive utility platform developed by Vasundhara Infotech LLP. The acquisition marks a strategic move by the company to expand beyond its core vehicle transaction business and build a comprehensive digital ecosystem focused on vehicle ownership services. The acquired platform enables users to access key automotive information, including registration details, insurance verification, traffic challan status and service history.

Isuzu Motors India has announced the appointment of Takeshi Hirano as its new Deputy Managing Director, marking a significant leadership transition within the company’s Indian operations. Hirano brings more than two decades of global experience in automotive distribution, marketing and strategic management. His appointment follows the reassignment of Toru Kishimoto, who will move to a new role at the parent company in Japan. Having previously served in a senior leadership position within the Indian subsidiary, Hirano is familiar with the local market and business environment.

Ashok Leyland, one of India’s leading commercial vehicle manufacturers, has unveiled plans to invest up to Rs. 500 crore in a new battery pack manufacturing facility near Chennai. The greenfield project marks a significant step in strengthening the company’s electric vehicle (EV) ecosystem and reflects the broader transformation underway within India’s automotive sector. The facility, located in Pillaipakkam, is expected to play a strategic role in supporting Ashok Leyland’s growing EV portfolio while enhancing domestic manufacturing capabilities.

Indian automaker Mahindra & Mahindra reported robust vehicle sales in February, reflecting sustained demand for sport utility vehicles and utility vehicles across domestic and international markets. The company recorded solid growth in its automotive segment, driven primarily by the popularity of models such as the Mahindra Scorpio-N, Mahindra Thar, and Mahindra XUV700. Strong rural demand, expanding dealership networks, and improved supply chains contributed to the performance.

Japanese automaker Toyota Motor Corporation is intensifying its focus on India’s fast-growing sport utility vehicle market by introducing a series of new SUV models tailored to evolving consumer preferences. As demand shifts toward spacious, technology-driven vehicles, the company is strategically expanding its lineup to strengthen market share and reinforce brand presence. Flagship offerings such as the Toyota Fortuner and newer entrants like the Toyota Urban Cruiser Hyryder highlight Toyota’s emphasis on hybrid technology, fuel efficiency, and premium features.

French automaker Renault is preparing to introduce a new sport utility vehicle, the Renault Bridger, in India by 2027 as part of its long-term strategy to strengthen its position in one of the world’s fastest-growing automotive markets. The planned model is expected to target the competitive mid-size SUV segment, which has become a major growth driver for the country’s passenger vehicle industry.

India’s electric vehicle (EV) industry could witness faster innovation and broader participation if the government relaxes eligibility criteria under the Automotive Production Linked Incentive (PLI) scheme, according to the chief executive of Euler Motors. While the policy has successfully attracted major investments from established automotive manufacturers, industry leaders argue that strict financial and production thresholds limit participation from emerging EV start-ups.

India’s automobile retail market witnessed a strong surge in February 2026, with overall sales rising nearly 26 percent year-on-year, reflecting renewed consumer confidence and improved affordability across segments. Total vehicle registrations climbed to 24,09,362 units compared with 19,17,934 units in February 2025. The expansion was broad-based, with two-wheelers, passenger vehicles, three-wheelers, commercial vehicles, and tractors recording their strongest February performance on record.

India Yamaha Motor Pvt. Ltd. has introduced a new “Metallic Black” edition of its XSR155 motorcycle at Rs. 1,58,990 (ex-showroom Delhi), reinforcing its push in India’s growing premium two-wheeler segment. The model, first launched in November 2025, has reportedly witnessed strong consumer traction, reflecting rising demand for modern-retro styled motorcycles. The latest variant aims to expand the product’s visual appeal while retaining its mechanical configuration.

Yamaha Motor Company has introduced the XSR155 in a new Metallic Black finish in India, strengthening its presence in the premium entry-level motorcycle segment. The neo-retro model blends classic styling cues with modern engineering, targeting urban riders seeking performance and aesthetic distinction. Powered by a 155cc liquid-cooled engine with advanced valve timing technology, the motorcycle is positioned to compete in the growing lifestyle two-wheeler category.