UFI Filters Launches Cabin Air Filtration that Kills 99.5% Viruses & 99.9% Bacteria
- By MT Bureau
- August 25, 2020
UFI Filters, an industry leader in filtration and thermal management solutions, today launched a cabin air filtration, SOFIMA D+FEND Anti-virus, which delivers a 99.5% reduction in viruses and a 99.9% in bacteria.
According to UFI Filters, the laboratory tests have certified the capacity of the new filter to neutralize coronaviruses from the SARS-COV family (kill rate 99.5%), as well as influenza A H1N1, H3N2 and H7N9, in addition to various types of dangerous bacteria such as E. coli and staphylococcus aureus (kill rate 99.9%).
For the Indian market, innovative SOFIMA D+FEND Anti-virus filters will be produced at SOFIMA FILTERS INDIA Plant in Bahadurgarh. It belongs to product code family ending with KN2 and caters to the aftermarket space.
Luca Betti, Group Aftermarket Business Unit Director, said, "We are extremely proud of the results achieved thanks to the collaboration of our Innovation Centers in China, India and in Italy. UFI Filters Group has chosen to give a meaningful name to this innovative D+FEND Anti-virus filter media, which has been certified according to ISO 11155-1:2001 standard having a filtration efficiency of more than 95 percent for aerosol particles, with dimension equal to 0.3 microns. When applied to cabin air filters, this innovative material thus offers a clear improvement in the quality of the air inside vehicles, during a historical period in which the health of the individual is absolutely paramount."
Hridesh Sharma, CEO of UFI Filters India, said, “The investment made by UFI Filters Group in Research and Development is ongoing. This innovative product bears testament to our desire to remain at the cutting edge when it comes to innovation and is evidence of the exceptional ability of our technicians to work with laboratories and certified institutions at international level."
SOFIMA D+FEND Anti-virus incorporates the antimicrobial and antiviral active substances into the fibers themselves, which are made up of polymeric material. Thanks to the prolonged release of ions from the two elements embedded in the fibers, the filter has the power to destroy the bacterial and viral load over a prolonged period, unlike other solutions on the market today, the properties of which are diminished after just a few working cycles following the installation of the filter on the vehicle. (MT)
Indraprastha Gas Deploys Nawgati Automated Safety Framework For CNG Stations
- By MT Bureau
- October 21, 2026
Indraprastha Gas has introduced Nawgati's artificial intelligence (AI) vehicle recognition and safety verification system at fuel stations in Delhi.
The rollout was inaugurated at the Shantipath CNG facility by Sanjay Kumar Singh, Joint Chief Controller of Explosives for the North Circle at the Petroleum and Explosives Safety Organisation (PESO). The initiative implements a three-pronged compliance framework to verify compressed natural gas cylinder hydrotest validity before refuelling.
The system incorporates the consumer-facing Nawgati app, the Aaveg compliance application used by queue marshals and automated license plate recognition cameras linked to digital LED displays and public announcement systems. Non-compliant vehicles with expired certifications trigger automated alerts to station staff to halt refuelling operations.
Ambuj Singh, Senior Vice President of Business and Operations, Nawgati, said, "Fuel retail safety relies on robust enforcement and friction-free technology. Having senior leadership inaugurate this rollout at IGL Shantipath is a testament to the urgency and impact of our solution. By combining our proprietary technology, the Aaveg Compliance app for queue marshals, and consumer-facing transparency through the Nawgati app, we are helping operators eliminate manual blind spots, prevent unverified cylinders from refuelling, and set a new benchmark for smart infrastructure safety."
The safety deployment is accompanied by public awareness campaigns across media channels and operational protocols implemented by Indraprastha Gas to support national energy targets and infrastructure expansion.
AXOR Introduces Agera Full-Face Helmet With Integrated Aerodynamic Rear Spoiler
- By MT Bureau
- October 19, 2026
AXOR, the premium helmet brand from Vega Auto, has launched the Agera, a full-face helmet designed with aerodynamic engineering and ventilation features for high-speed riding.
The helmet features a shell profile with an integrated rear spoiler engineered to manage airflow, reduce aerodynamic drag, and lower neck strain at high speeds. The rear spoiler functions as an integrated exhaust vent to assist with thermal management and interior airflow extraction. The product will be retailed in domestic markets and exported across AXOR's international distribution network.
The Agera features a double D-ring retention system and an Emergency Quick Release System for cheek pad removal during emergency situations. The helmet is equipped with an optically correct, scratch-resistant, UV-protected Revo outer visor featuring a tool-free quick-release mechanism and Pinlock anti-fog compatibility, alongside an integrated internal smoke sun visor for glare reduction.
Uttam Chandak, Joint MD and Head of Research and Development, AXOR, said, "Aerodynamic engineering plays a critical role in the overall riding experience, particularly at higher speeds. With the Agera, our focus has been on developing a shell profile that manages airflow effectively. By combining aerodynamic considerations with functional ventilation and a race-inspired design, we aim to deliver a helmet that reflects our continued focus on engineering-led product development."
SMK Helmets Expands Agnar Range With Agnar Revv Decal Variant At INR 6,700
- By MT Bureau
- October 19, 2026
SMK Helmets has introduced a new graphic option, named Agnar Revv, to its Agnar full-face helmet lineup. First launched in 2024, the Agnar range features a graphic design inspired by the sweep of an engine tachometer, offered across six colour combinations in gloss and matte finishes.
The Agnar Revv is built using two distinct outer shell moulds rather than a single shell size with varied foam padding, maintaining outer shell proportions across head sizes from XS to XXL.
The helmet features an Energy Impact Resistant Thermoplastic outer shell paired with a multi-density EPS liner, carrying safety certifications for ECE 22.06, DOT and ISI standards. The ventilation system incorporates 21 stainless steel vents connected via internal airflow channels designed to manage thermal regulation and wind noise.
Varun Chopra, Vice President of IT and Creative Design, SMK, said, "Since its introduction, the Agnar has become one of the key products in our portfolio, reflecting our focus on combining distinctive design with certified safety, a sturdy build, and high-airflow ventilation. With the Agnar Revv, we are elevating the lineup by introducing vibrant decals with a fresh identity. Modern riders expect new global drops from a brand like ours, and the Agnar Revv bridges aggressive aesthetics with uncompromised daily comfort. We believe it will further strengthen our product portfolio and appeal to riders who demand bold styling without compromising on real world protection."
The helmet comes with a dual visor setup featuring a scratch-resistant outer visor with a quick-release mechanism, a retractable internal sun visor and a Pinlock 30 anti-fog lens supplied as standard in India.
The helmet incorporates a removable and washable hypoallergenic interior liner alongside a double D-ring chin strap closure. Designed at SMK's European studio and produced at its manufacturing facilities in India, the Agnar Revv is priced at INR 6,700 through authorised retail outlets, with online sales availability scheduled for a later release.
PPS Motors Opens Mahindra Service Facility In Saswad Spanning 25,400 Square Feet
- By MT Bureau
- October 15, 2026
Automobile retail group PPS Motors has opened a Mahindra service workshop in Saswad, near Pune. The facility marks the dealer group's 151st Mahindra touchpoint in India and expands its network to nine locations across the Pune region.
The workshop covers 25,400 square feet, making it the largest upcountry automobile service facility in the area. The site is equipped with 18 bays, comprising 13 mechanical service bays and five bodyshop bays, providing an annual service capacity exceeding 4,500 vehicles.
The location targets vehicle owners and agricultural transport operators in Saswad and surrounding districts. The opening ceremony was attended by Mahindra & Mahindra Senior Vice-President Pavan Kumar, Vice-President Sachin Gupta and PPS Motors Managing Director Rajiv Sanghvi.
Rajiv Sanghvi, Managing Director, PPS Motors, said, "We are proud to inaugurate our 151st Mahindra touchpoint, the largest upcountry automobile service workshop in the Pune region. With a robust network across six Indian states, we have consistently worked together to deliver outstanding value to our customers. With Mahindra’s technologically advanced products, customer-centric approach coupled with our deep understanding of the customer needs we together endeavour to provide Best-In-Class ownership experience for our customers."

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