BYD India, a subsidiary of the China-headquartered world-leading new energy vehicles manufacturer BYD, has launched what it claims is India's first 6- and 7-seater electric MPV – the BYD eMAX 7 at prices starting INR 2.69 million.

The BYD eMAX 7 will succeed the BYD e6, with one of the notable changes over the outgoing model is the integration of the 8-in-1 electric powertrain from BYD's e-platform 3.0 and varied seating options.

The e-MPV comes in two variants – Superior and Premium – with 6- and 7-seater options for both. While the Superior variant comes with a battery pack of 71.8 kWh, the Premium variant packs a 55.4 kWh battery pack, returning a claimed 530km and 420km range NEDC (New European Driving Cycle) tested, respectively.

The Superior variant is capable of reaching 0-100 km/h in just 8.6 seconds and the premium variant does the same in just 10.1 seconds. The vehicle also boasts a wheelbase of 2,800 mm, which is one of the best in the MPV segment.

Rajeev Chauhan, Head of Electric Passenger Vehicles (EPV) Business at BYD India, said: “This electric MPV is not just a vehicle; it's a revolution in how progressive families experience travel. With its cutting-edge technology, exceptional comfort, and eco-friendly performance, the BYD eMAX 7 is set to raise the bar in the Indian electric vehicle market. We are excited to bring this modern, elegant eMPV to our customers and are confident that it will significantly enhance their driving, travel and ownership experience. We will always be committed to bringing the latest global innovation to our discerning Indian consumers.” 

The vehicle offers an immersive and futuristic cabin experience with abundant room, front ventilated seats, a 12.8-Inch (32.5 cm) rotatable infotainment display, a 5-inch (12.7 cm) advanced instrument cluster, a wireless phone charger and an gear lever.

The expansive 1.42 sqm panoramic glass roof creates a sense of roominess in the cabin, further enhancing passenger comfort. The third row of the vehicle can be folded to create 580-litres of boot space, ensuring ample space for cargo needs. The middle seats can also be split into 60:40 to maximise the boot space.

The BYD eMAX 7 is available with 4 exterior colour options – Quartz Blue, Cosmos Black, Crystal White, and Harbour Grey.

The e-MPV uses BYD’s Blade Battery and the 8-in-1 electric powertrain from the globally acclaimed e-platform 3.0. The distinctive feature of the BYD Blade Battery is the arrangement of battery cells in a blade-like formation, which increases the contact area between cells and electrical pathways, resulting in efficient heat transfer. Additionally, this unique design helps reduce the risk in the event of a vehicle collision. 

On the other hand, BYD's 8-in-1 electric powertrain is a system that integrates eight critical components into one, consisting of the motor, motor controller, reducer, on-board charger, DC converter, high-voltage distribution box, vehicle controller, and BMS (Battery Management System). This system is designed to optimise space utilisation and energy efficiency.

The EV packs a range of safety features, including 6 airbags as standard, ABS, EPF, EBD and ADAS to name a few.

The BYD eMAX 7 also takes care of the New Energy needs of its customers with advanced technologies like VTOL and Regenerative braking. Powering a family camping outdoors or using it to power other electric equipment, the VTOL (Vehicle to Load) technology ensures maximum usability of the vehicle. 

On the comfort side, the BYD eMAX 7 sees all the three rows of the vehicle have its separate AC vents and 2 Type A and Type C charging ports for the first two rows each. The 12.8-Inch (32.5 cm) intelligent rotating touch screen hosts Android Auto and Apple CarPlay, ensuring seamless connectivity to customers' phones. It gets immersive 6-speaker sound system too. In addition, the vehicle also hosts advanced convenience features like voice assistance, keyless entry, NFC card key, electric trunk opening, PM 2.5 filtration system, one touch up-down with anti-pinch for all 4-door windows and automatic air conditioning.

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U Power has completed operational testing and integration of the battery-swapping system for heavy-duty truck prototypes intended for the Thailand market.

The milestone follows the partnership established in December 2025 with Whale Logistics (Thailand) to deploy 1,000 units in the country with the production and delivery of the first batch of tractors scheduled for May 2026.

The project was developed by U Power in conjunction with SAIC Hongyan Automotive and UNEX EV. The prototypes underwent three months of road testing to evaluate technical systems. Following integration, the vehicles met design specifications for highway logistics transportation. The project uses the UOTTA battery-swapping solution, which allows for battery replacement within minutes.

The initiative is designed to support the adoption of battery-swapping in the road logistics sector. By using this model, vehicle operators can avoid investment in grid expansion and charging infrastructure. The system is intended to maintain operational efficiency levels comparable to fuel-powered trucks while addressing battery degradation. Thailand serves as a location in U Power’s growth plan for Southeast Asia.

U Power provides AI-integrated solutions that connect electric vehicles with energy infrastructure. The company’s technology focuses on the optimisation of mobility and grid performance through modular battery-swapping stations. The deployment of these 1,000 vehicles is intended to meet logistics demand and increase transport efficiency in the region.

Johnny Lee, Founder and Chief Executive Officer, U Power, said, "Completing full-condition road testing of our pilot vehicles confirms the reliability and efficiency of the UOTTA battery-swapping model. Via the partnership with Whale Logistics, we are set to deploy 1,000 vehicles in Thailand to meet high-frequency logistics demand and boost operational efficiency. Thailand is a strategic market in U Power's global growth plan. By pioneering battery-swapping solutions for taxis and heavy-duty trucks, we are strengthening our leadership in Southeast Asia and driving low-carbon commercial transportation, while laying the foundation for expansion across the region."

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Swedish electric performance car brand Polestar has published the full carbon footprint of the Polestar 5, reinforcing its commitment to climate transparency within the automotive sector. Since 2020, the manufacturer has provided comprehensive Life Cycle Assessments for all its models, with the Polestar 5 being the latest addition to this publicly available data. The company emphasises that scrutinising emissions from materials and production is essential for actively reducing the overall climate impact of vehicle manufacturing.

As the first original equipment manufacturer to disclose the carbon footprint for its entire lineup, Polestar offers consumers clear insight into the environmental cost of their vehicles. The Polestar 5 records a cradle-to-gate footprint of 23.8 tonnes of carbon dioxide equivalent, which encompasses emissions from raw material extraction through to the point of customer delivery.

A significant focus for emission reduction lies in material sourcing. Aluminium, a notably carbon-intensive component, has been targeted for improvement. In the Polestar 5, a portion of the aluminium is recycled, and the vast majority is sourced from smelters utilising renewable electricity. This strategic shift avoids substantial emissions compared to conventional methods.

Renewable energy extends beyond material supply to the production facilities themselves. The plants responsible for assembling the Polestar 5, along with those manufacturing its battery cells and related components, are powered by renewable electricity, thereby lowering the overall manufacturing emissions.

Further environmental gains are achieved through innovative interior materials. Natural fibre composites, developed with Bcomp, incorporate a flax-based fabric that reduces reliance on fossil-based substances and offers weight savings over traditional composites. Recycled content is prevalent throughout, including carpets made from reclaimed fishing nets and textiles from recycled PET. The design also facilitates future recycling, exemplified by the front luggage compartment’s mono-material PET construction. For those selecting leather, a chrome-free, ethically sourced option is available.

The Polestar 5 demonstrates that sustainability can coexist with high performance. The four-door grand tourer delivers substantial power and torque, achieves an estimated driving range up to 678 km (WLTP) and benefits from an 800-volt architecture enabling rapid DC charging (from 10 to 80 percent in 22 minutes).

Fredrika Klarén, Head of Sustainability, Polestar, said, “You cannot reduce what you don’t measure. Making the carbon footprint of a car visible helps focus the industry on where emissions occur, particularly in materials and manufacturing. That transparency is essential if we want to scale the low-carbon materials, renewable energy and circular solutions needed to reduce the climate impact of cars.”

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MG has introduced its latest model, the all-new MGS9 PHEV, marking the brand's entry into the seven-seat SUV market. This plug-in hybrid vehicle aims to blend spacious family practicality with efficient operating costs. Pricing for the new model starts at GBP 34,205 (approximately USD 45,956) and reaches up to GBP 36,945 (approximately USD 49,606) for top-tier versions.

The vehicle’s interior is designed for adaptability, featuring three rows of seating. When the rearmost seats are not required, they can be folded to unlock over 1,000 litres of cargo capacity, accommodating luggage, sports equipment or everyday family needs. Even when all seven seats are in use, the MGS9 retains a practical 332 litres of boot space.

Power is supplied by a familiar plug-in hybrid system, previously seen in the award-winning MG HS. It pairs a 1.5-litre turbocharged petrol engine with a substantial 24.7 kWh battery. This setup provides an electric-only driving range of up to 62 miles (approximately 99.78 km), a figure that should comfortably cover the average daily commute or routine school and shopping trips.

In keeping with the brand's reputation for value, the MGS9 comes generously equipped. Features include leather-style upholstery, a panoramic sunroof and tri-zone climate control. Adding to passenger comfort, the front seats are also ventilated and offer a massage function. Safety has been thoroughly addressed, with the model already securing a maximum five-star Euro NCAP rating. This achievement is supported by its robust high-strength steel construction and a comprehensive suite of up to 16 advanced driver assistance systems. The vehicle is currently available for ordering, with full specifications due to be released later this month as initial deliveries reach UK showrooms.

David Allison, Director of Product and Planning, MG UK, said, "The launch of the MGS9 PHEV represents a significant milestone for MG, marking our entry into the 7-seat SUV segment and further strengthening our position in the large SUV market. As a vehicle that is both longer and taller than the MG HS, the all-new MGS9 PHEV delivers enhanced presence and versatility, offering the flexibility of a third row to meet the evolving needs of modern families and lifestyle-driven customers. Combining an excellent electric range and strong efficiency with an elevated level of specification and refinement, the all-new MGS9 PHEV continues MG’s commitment to delivering accessible innovation and exceptional value within a highly competitive 7-seat SUV segment.”

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Pune-based Kinetic Engineering (KEL) has announced an infusion of INR 400 million from its promoter group. The capital, raised through the conversion of warrants, increases promoter shareholding to 65 percent, up from 49 percent four years ago.

The funds are intended to strengthen the company’s balance sheet and support expansion across its electric vehicle (EV) and automotive component businesses. KEL is currently increasing its presence in battery systems, precision engineering and components for global original equipment manufacturers (OEMs).

A portion of the capital will support Kinetic Watts and Volts, a subsidiary in which KEL holds an 80 percent stake. This subsidiary recently launched the electric version of the Kinetic DX e-scooter.

The company plans to appoint over 150 dealers this year to take the DX EV national, following initial operations in Pune, Mumbai, Vadodara, Surat, Indore, and Delhi NCR.

Kinetic Engineering is also expanding its capacity for traditional automotive programmes and precision engineering solutions. The investment is intended to allow for technological upgrades and innovation as the industry shifts toward electric mobility.

Ajinkya Firodia, Vice-Chairman & Managing Director, Kinetic Engineering, said, “It is highly exciting time for us at Kinetic. The response to the scooter, Kinetic DX, launched by the subsidiary company is phenomenal. We are expanding nationwide and plan to appoint over 150 dealers this year. Meanwhile Kinetic Engineering’s component business is showing great potential and new orders. We will be using these funds for expansion of both projects as required and planned. This additional investment reflects the promoter group’s continued confidence in Kinetic Engineering and our long-term strategy. The automotive industry is undergoing a profound shift towards electric mobility, and we are building the capabilities needed to participate meaningfully in this transition. Strengthening the company’s capital base allows us to accelerate investments in technology, manufacturing, and innovation as we prepare for the next phase of growth.”

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