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)

Comments (0)

ADD COMMENT

Link Copied!

Steelbird Helmets has introduced its Numerology Series, a product line featuring graphics based on numbers 01 to 09. The series allows riders to select helmets corresponding to birth dates, milestones or personal preferences.

The helmets are designed with a flip-up mechanism, enabling a transition between full-face and open-face configurations. The series is intended for both city commuting and highway use.

The helmets are ISI certified (IS 4151:2015) and constructed from a high-impact thermoplastic shell. The aerodynamic design is intended to provide stability at higher speeds.

The Numerology series helmets weigh around 1350 ± 50 grams, feature a dual-visor setup including an inner smoke sunshield and an anti-scratch outer visor. An integrated airflow system with breathable, detachable and washable interior padding. And are available in small, medium and large sizes at prices starting INR 2,249.

Rajeev Kapur, Managing Director, Steelbird Helmets, said, “At Steelbird, we continuously focus on innovation that resonates with riders while maintaining high standards of safety. The Numerology Series is a unique concept that allows riders to express their individuality through numbers while enjoying the comfort, style, and protection that our helmets are known for.”

Comments (0)

ADD COMMENT

Link Copied!

Italian superbike manufacturer Ducati has inaugurated a service-only facility in Ahmedabad, Gujarat, expanding its aftersales network in India. This follows the launch of a similar workshop in Goa.

The facility, located in Makarba, covers 2,800 sqft and is operated by FuelMoto Works. It is designed to provide maintenance and repairs for Ducati owners in the region. The workshop is equipped with two automated service bays and a customer lounge. It also includes a section for genuine Ducati apparel and merchandise.

The centre provides routine maintenance servicing & inspections, supply of spares and accidental repair services. It also provides customisation with genuine parts & accessories, along with technical support.

The establishment of this exclusive service setup in Ahmedabad targets the riding community in Gujarat. The strategic location in Makarba is intended to improve accessibility for owners across the state.

Bipul Chandra, Managing Director, Ducati India, said, “The launch of our service-only facility in Ahmedabad is a pivotal step in strengthening Ducati’s after-sales ecosystem in India. Ahmedabad, with its enthusiastic riding community and growing passion for premium motorcycles, represents a crucial market for us. This new service set up by FuelMoto Works not only brings Ducati’s renowned service standards closer to the Ducatisti of Gujarat but also reflects our unwavering commitment to providing an unparalleled ownership experience. We are thrilled to partner with FuelMoto Works, who share our vision for excellence and client satisfaction.”

Harsh Soni, Dealer Principal, FuelMoto Works, stated, “We are incredibly proud to partner with Ducati and bring this Ducati authorized service-only facility to Ahmedabad. Our team at FuelMoto Works is dedicated to upholding Ducati’s global standards of service and precision. We understand the passion that Ducati riders have for their motorcycles, and we are committed to providing them with expert care, and exceptional service experience. This facility is a testament to our long-term commitment to the brand and the growing community of Ducatisti in Gujarat.”

Comments (0)

ADD COMMENT

Link Copied!

Shriram Automall India (SAMIL) has concluded ‘SAMIL Utsav 2026' a synchronised auction event held across its network in India. The company executed 135 live auctions simultaneously, generating over INR 1.95 billion in gross transaction value within a single day.

The event featured more than 19,000 pre-owned vehicles and equipment assets. A total of 8,500 transactions were completed, involving over 25,000 customers from 500 cities. The initiative saw participation from SAMIL group companies, including CarTrade Exchange, Adroit Auto and Augeo.

The auction included assets from segments such as two-wheelers, three-wheelers, passenger vehicles, commercial vehicles, farm equipment and construction machinery. These assets were sourced from banks, NBFCs, OEMs, insurance companies and leasing firms.

Since its inception in 2011 with a single facility, SAMIL has expanded to more than 135 locations. The company utilises a ‘phygital’ model, combining physical infrastructure with digital platforms to manage the pre-owned asset marketplace.

Sameer Malhotra, Director & CEO, Shriram Automall India (SAMIL), said, “The auction showcased a diverse portfolio including: two-wheelers & three-wheelers, passenger vehicles, commercial vehicles, tractors & farm equipment, construction & heavy equipment. Assets were sourced from leading Indian banks, NBFCs, OEMs, insurance companies, leasing firms, aggregators and dealers – strengthening India’s organised asset remarketing ecosystem.”

“SAMIL Utsav 2026 is a defining milestone in our 15-year journey. Conducting over 135 simultaneous auctions across India in a single day reflects the strength of our nationwide network and the deep trust placed in us by our buyers and sellers. From one Automall in 2011 to over 135 locations today, our growth has been driven by transparency, technology, and strong partnerships. Our phygital model has transformed India’s organised pre-owned asset marketplace. As we move ahead, our focus remains on expanding access, strengthening digital integration and creating sustainable value for every stakeholder in the ecosystem,” added Malhotra.

Comments (0)

ADD COMMENT

Link Copied!

Gulf Oil Lubricants India (GOLIL) and Mahindra & Mahindra’s Farm Equipment Business have announced a multi-year renewal of their strategic partnership. This extension continues a collaboration that has been in place for over a decade.

The agreement was signed in Mumbai by R Veeraraghavan, Senior Vice-President – SSU, Mahindra–Farm Tractor Division and Ravi Chawla, Managing Director & CEO, Gulf Oil Lubricants India. Under the terms of the renewal, Gulf Oil will maintain the largest share of business for the duration of the partnership.

The alliance between the two entities began in 2011 through a co-branded initiative with Mahindra Automotive, before expanding into the Tractors Division in 2014. The renewed agreement is the longest-term set since the start of the collaboration.

The partnership focuses on several operational areas:

• Technological Innovation: Developing lubricant solutions tailored for tractor engines and farm machinery.
• Supply Chain Efficiency: Strengthening the distribution network to ensure product availability across the ecosystem.
• Digital Initiatives: Investing in digital tools to enhance services for channel partners and customers.
• Market Growth: Executing joint marketing campaigns to support the Mahindra tractor brand.

Ravi Chawla, said, “Our renewed partnership with Mahindra Tractors is a testament to the strength of our alliance and the shared values that drive it. In line with our long-term philosophy of partnership for growth, we have, over the past decade, consistently delivered reliable performance and service excellence, adding sustained value to Mahindra & Mahindra. This extension marks a new chapter where we continue to innovate, enhance services for channel partners, and create lasting value for Mahindra customers.”

Comments (0)

ADD COMMENT

Link Copied!