Skoda Kylaq launched, new Dzire gets 5 stars and the BMW i5 is fast | Automotive news

In this episode of the evo India Podcast, Editor Sirish Chandran and Assistant Editor Aatish Mishra bring you the latest updates from the Indian automotive world. They kick things off with the launch of the Skoda Kylaq, a sub-4-meter SUV featuring a 1.0-litre TSI engine, discussing its spaciousness, ride comfort, handling, and its potential to significantly boost Skoda India’s sales. The conversation then shifts to the 2024 Maruti Suzuki Dzire, which has achieved a 5-star GNCAP crash safety rating, making it the safest sedan under ₹10 lakh and a more desirable choice for buyers. They also dive into the performance and features of the newly launched Mercedes-AMG C 63 S E Performance and the third-generation G 63. Wrapping up, the duo explores exciting news from the two-wheeler segment, including Royal Enfield unveiling its first-ever electric bike, the Flying Flea C6, at EICMA 2024 in Milan, and the teased electric version of the iconic Honda Activa. Don’t miss this comprehensive roundup of the hottest automotive updates—perfect for enthusiasts and industry followers!</p>

00:44:14

Finding out how EV batteries are made at Neuron Energy

In the latest episode of the evo India podcast, we’re joined by Pratik Kamdar, Co-founder of Neuron Energy, to dive deep into the world of EVs and battery packs. Founded in 2018, Neuron Energy focuses on sustainable solutions for electric mobility, developing advanced lithium-ion batteries for bikes, commercial vehicles, and drones. In this episode, we discuss how different battery packs are made, energy storage, challenges and the complexities of manufacturing EV batteries, and lots more. This one’s a must-listen for science enthusiasts and EV fans!</p>

01:04:32

Ratan Tata’s Automotive Legacy: From Indica to Jaguar Land Rover

In this evo India episode, Sirish Chandran and Adil Jal Darukhanawala reflect on the visionary impact of Ratan Tata. From launching India’s first indigenous car to acquiring Jaguar Land Rover, Tata’s influence transformed the automotive industry and built a legacy of innovation. Tune in to hear untold stories, the challenges behind the Nano, and insights into the future he envisioned for Tata Motors and the nation. Share your thoughts in the comments and join us in celebrating a legend who believed in driving India forward.</p>

01:00:35

What’s really going on with EV sales and sentiments in India | Podcast | evoIndia

In the latest episode of the evo India Podcast, Editor Sirish Chandran and Assistant Editor Aatish Mishra dive into the growing negativity and shifting sentiments around electric vehicles (EVs) in India. They discuss the recent discounts on the Tata Nexon EV, the innovative Battery-as-a-Service (BaaS) program introduced by MG Motors with the new Windsor EV, and how these programs aim to make EV ownership more accessible. The conversation also covers hybrid vehicle plans, government policies, the PM E-Drive Scheme, and the future of electric mobility in India. Tune in for an insightful discussion on the state of EVs, the challenges in adoption, and what lies ahead for the Indian automotive industry. </p>

00:58:22

EVs in India, buyer sentiment, residual values and more | Interview with Santosh Iyer, MD and CEO Mercedes-Benz India | evoIndia

The Indian EV market has faced challenges, with consumers showing a lack of interest in adopting electric vehicles, primarily due to the higher purchase costs compared to traditional ICE (Internal Combustion Engine) cars. In an exclusive interview, we speak with Santosh Iyer, MD and CEO of Mercedes-Benz India, at the launch of the second made-in-India Mercedes-Benz electric SUV, the EQS 580. Santosh Iyer shares insights into the factors contributing to the slower adoption of EVs in India, the current challenges faced by the industry, and what the future holds for electric mobility in the country. Join us as we delve into the key reasons behind the slow EV adoption, how manufacturers like Mercedes-Benz plan to tackle these issues, and what consumers can expect in the coming years for EV technology and infrastructure. </p>

00:24:05

The evolution of Mahindra Auto part 2 | podcast | ‪ @evoIndia

In part 1 of the "Everything You Need to Know About Mahindra" podcast, Ed Sirish Chandran and Adil Jal Darukhanawala, author of Timeless Mahindra, took a journey through Mahindra & Mahindra's history, from producing iconic Jeeps to launching the Thar in 2010. The discussion covered key vehicles produced by Mahindra Auto, including the CJ-3B, Armada, Classic, Major, MM 550, Legend, and more. In part 2 of the podcast, they explore the 2020 Mahindra Thar, the creation of the Mahindra Research Valley (MRV) in Chennai, the XUV700, and the key figures in Mahindra's leadership team. They also discuss failed partnerships with Renault and SsangYong, rumors about Mahindra acquiring Volkswagen's India operations, and Adil’s favorite topic—EVs. Sit back, relax, and enjoy this in-depth podcast to learn everything about Mahindra Auto. 0:00 Intro 0:56 2020 Mahindra Thar and MRV 9:04 Copying of the Jeep design 11:16 Could the 3-door Thar have had a different design? 13:31 Transformation of Mahindra Auto 14:14 Mahindra XUV700 16:25 Key people of Mahindra Auto 24:45 Current leadership team at Mahindra Auto 32:57 Mahindra's partnerships 33:09 Mahindra and Ford 37:36 Mahindra and Renault 39:55 Mahindra and SsangYong 43:45 Mahindra buying Aston Martin rumours 44:04 Mahindra and Volkswagen India rumours 45:10 Why is the Thar not sold in global markets? 47:15 Should the Thar Roxx be named Armada originally? 48:33 Mahindra and Reva 51:00 Is the future for Mahindra electric? 56:53 Outro <br /> </p>

00:57:08

The evolution of Mahindra Auto part 1 | podcast | @evoIndia

In this podcast, editor Sirish Chandran sits down with Adil Jal Darukhanawala, an automotive historian, author of Timeless Mahindra, and editor-at-large at evo India magazine. They take a journey back in time to explore how Mahindra & Mahindra evolved, from producing iconic Jeeps to launching the Thar in 2010. The discussion covers all the significant vehicles Mahindra Auto has produced, including the CJ-3B, Armada, Classic, Major, MM 550, Legend, and more. Adil shares insights into the various strategies Mahindra adopted to build the brand it is today. Sit back, relax, and enjoy this in-depth podcast to learn everything about Mahindra Auto.</p> <br /></p> You can also get a copy of Timeless Mahindra here: https://rzp.io/l/timelessmahindra</p>

01:02:59

Ashish Gupta, brand director, Volkswagen India addresses rumours of VW's exit | Podcast | @evoIndia

Get ready for the next episode of the Boss Talks podcast, featuring Ashish Gupta, Brand Director of Volkswagen Passenger Cars India, in the studio with Ed Sirish Chandran! In this exciting episode, they tackle the burning questions: Is Volkswagen India planning to exit the market or seeking an Indian partner? Plus, they dive into hot topics like ownership costs, upcoming facelifts for the Volkswagen Taigun and Virtus, the future of EVs, and the question every enthusiast wants answered—will the new Polo make a comeback in India? Watch the podcast now to get the inside scoop on Volkswagen India's future plans! 0:00 Intro</p> 1:22 On rumors about VW leaving India</p> 3:06 Is the automobile industry going back to the pre-COVID era</p> 5:37 Views from the Volkswagen India loyalist</p> 6:40 Volkswagen India's journey</p> 7:58 Is the sedan segment coming back?</p> 9:27 What draws people to buying a sedan</p> 10:29 Volkswagen Taigun facelift</p> 11:38 Cost of ownership of a VW</p> 13:19 Does safety aspect of a car result in sales?</p> 14:42 Expansion of the GT badge</p> 15:22 VW Experience or VWe</p> 16:40 Ashish Gupta's journey at Volkswagen India</p> 17:18 Main focus areas during the transition to INDIA 2.0</p> 19:37 What's a day like in the life of a Brand Director</p> 21:58 Do plans change when a new policy is made</p> 23:08 Involvement with various authorities/agencies</p> 23:44 Ashish Gupta's career</p> 25:35 Upcoming Volkswagen India products</p> 27:39 How does the new EV policy change things for VW India</p> 29:02 Sub-4-meter SUV</p> 30:33 Volkswagen Ameo</p> 31:14 Volkswagen Polo</p> 32:02 Is there a need for more products?</p> 32:52 The new Volkswagen Tiguan</p> 34:25 Diesel</p> 36:14 CNG in VW India cars</p> 36:32 Polo GTi</p> 38:01 Volkswagen and Skoda working together</p> 39:07 Views on the Indian automotive market</p> 41:56 Rapid Fire round</p> 44:42 Outro </p>

00:45:20

Curvv, Sierra and Tata Motors Design: In conversation with Martin Uhlarik, Global Head of Design, Tata Motors

For the next episode of the Boss Talks podcast, we have with us Martin Uhlarik, Global Head of Design, Tata Motors in the studio with Ed Sirish Chandran. In this podcast, they talk about the Tata Curvv - its inception, design attributes, and more. They also talk about the challenges faced while designing dual-platform vehicles, the role of management, and how the different design studios in the UK, Italy, and Pune operate. Martin also tells us that the Tata Sierra is the next big launch for Tata Motors in 2025 and the development of the Avinya is also in process. Watch the podcast now and get some insights into how the Tata Curvv came to life and the upcoming vehicles from Tata Motors </p>

00:47:06

Boss Talks Podcast Episode 3: Narayan Subramaniam & Niraj Rajmohan, founders of Ultraviolette. What next for Ultraviolette Automotive?

Narayan Subramaniam & Niraj Rajmohan, founder and co-founder of electric motorcycle manufacturer, Ultraviolette Automotive in studio with Ed Sirish Chandran, talk about Ultraviolette’s progress so far, what the company has been up to, international expansion plans, dealership growth and a lot more. There's an important update about the F99 Factory Racing Platform plans which you do not want to miss! </p>

00:54:11