Ahmedabad-based clean energy company Matter has launched its flagship electric motorcycle – the Aera, in Bengaluru at an introductory price of IRN 179,000 for the first 500 customers, post which it will be available at INR 188,000. The company has started taking pre-registrations for the e-motorcycle at INR 1,999.

Furthermore, the company has also announced that its first Experience Hub will come up at BTM Layout, which will showcase its tech prowess and philosophy firsthand.

The Matter Aera is claimed to be the world's first electric motorcycle with manual gears – 4-speed transmission, 3 ride modes that delivers 12 unique ride combinations. It features a 7-inch Smart Touchscreen Dashboard, onboard charger and liquid cooled powertrain. The e-motorcycle has a claimed IDC range of up to 172km, a zero to 40 kmph in 2.8 seconds, dual disc brakes with ABS, telescopic front fork and dual rear suspension.

Mohal Lalbhai, Founder & Group CEO, Matter Energy, said, “There’s no better city to lead this journey than Bengaluru—where innovation isn’t just an idea, it’s a way of life. Every lane, every rider here resonates with purpose and progress. The Aera isn’t just a bike – it’s the 22nd Century motorbike. It delivers the thrill of a rocket and the practicality your pocket loves. With our in-house developed Hypershift manual gearbox, liquid-cooled powertrain, and connected tech, AERA brings together performance, emotion, and sustainability like never before.”

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The Renault 5 E-Tech electric has been named the overall UK Car of the Year 2026, securing the top honour from the UK Car of the Year Awards. This accolade follows its earlier win in the Small Car of the Year category. The decision was made by an independent jury of more than 30 leading UK-based automotive journalists, who selected the model as the definitive winner after final voting against other category champions.

Celebrated for its standout design and real-world appeal, the Renault 5 E-Tech electric impressed judges with its successful fusion of retro-inspired aesthetics and modern practicality. The vehicle offers an engaging driving experience paired with efficient everyday usability, qualities that have broad resonance with both private buyers and fleet operators. The award underscores the car’s status as a landmark electric vehicle in the UK market, arriving at a time when accessible and desirable EVs are increasingly in demand.

The Renault 5 E-Tech electric revitalises a cherished nameplate by integrating contemporary technology into a compact, user-friendly package. It features the OpenR Link infotainment system with built-in Google services, a chassis engineered for a balance of agility and comfort and convenient charging options. Depending on the specification, it delivers up to 252 miles (approximately 405 km) of WLTP-rated range and can complete a 15 to 80 percent charge in roughly half an hour.

This year’s UK Car of the Year Awards are supported by Start Rescue, a breakdown assistance provider recognised for its service reliability, having recently earned its seventh consecutive Which? Recommended Provider rating. The Renault 5 E-Tech is currently available with the full GBP 3,750 (USD 5,070) Electric Car Grant, with an on-the-road starting price of GBP 21,495 (USD 29,062).

John Challen, Co-Chairman of the UK Car of the Year Awards and Editor of UK Driver magazine, said, “With its retro styling, the new Renault 5 tugs at the heart strings of those drivers who experienced the original. By adding an immensely fun and entertaining drive, desirability and affordability to that nostalgic element, the French favourite pulled off a resounding victory to be crowned UK Car of the Year 2026.”

Adam Wood, Managing Director, Renault UK, said, “With so many experienced automotive journalists voting for R5 as the UK Car of the Year, the award is something we’re very proud of. It has really hit the spot with retail and fleet customers, and with 2026 being the first full year of sales, plus it being one of the very few EVs to qualify for the full £3,750 Electric Car Grant, R5 is well on its way to being a very common sight on our roads.”

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Dacia is expanding its lineup with the introduction of a new hybrid 150 4x4 powertrain for the Duster and Bigster models, scheduled for release later this year. This development reinforces the brand’s commitment to producing robust and capable SUVs that integrate practicality with everyday usability. The new system is tailored for those who value spontaneity and versatility, offering the flexibility to navigate daily routines as easily as weekend adventures off the usual paths.

By combining electrified efficiency with all-wheel drive capability, the hybrid 150 4x4 enhances the adaptability of both vehicles. It is engineered to perform across a variety of settings, from urban commuting and school pickups to more demanding environments like unpaved tracks and wintry roads. The setup includes a 48V mild hybrid system that supports electric driving, with a combustion engine producing 150 hp and 230 Nm of torque, supplemented by an electric motor contributing an additional 87 Nm.

A six-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission manages power delivery, with paddle shifters allowing drivers to take manual control when conditions require it. This feature adds a layer of responsiveness for those navigating difficult terrain, towing or simply seeking a more engaged driving experience. The integration of these elements underscores Dacia’s focus on dependable, adventure-ready vehicles.

Further information regarding UK specifications and market availability will be released in the coming months, leading up to the official launch.

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TATA.ev and Shell India Mobility have inaugurated 21 ‘Mega Charging Hubs’ in Bengaluru, Chennai, Mysore, Pune and Vadodara. The rollout expands the TATA.ev network to more than 130 operational sites across India.

The hubs are situated along highway corridors and in urban areas to support long-distance and city travel. Each location features 120 kW fast chargers and multiple bays to manage vehicle throughput.

The 21 new hubs provide a combined charging capacity of 2500 kW. Under the ‘Open Collaboration 2.0’ framework, TATA.ev intends to establish 500 Mega Charging Hubs and 400,000 charging points by 2027.

The service model at these hubs includes:

• Technical Support: On-ground marshals to assist with the charging process.
• Payment: Systems designed to operate without mandatory app or digital payment requirements.
• Facilities: Access to restrooms, Shell Select, and Deli2go stores.
• Owner Incentives: Specific offers for TATA.ev owners at on-site retail outlets.

Balaje Rajan, Chief Strategy Officer, Tata Passenger Electric Mobility, said, “EV infrastructure is fundamental to accelerating India’s transition to electric mobility. As the leader of the 4-wheeler electric revolution, TATA.ev has consistently taken the initiative to build and co-create a fast, reliable, and convenient public charging network through our TATA.ev Mega Charging Hubs. Today, in partnership with Shell India, we are proud to introduce new TATA.ev x Shell Mega Charging Hubs across key cities, offering a combined capacity of 2500 kW. This expansion reinforces our commitment to making charging seamless and ubiquitous for EV users across India.”

Sanjay Varkey, Director Mobility, Shell India Markets, added, “India’s mobility landscape is evolving rapidly, and a strong, high-quality charging infrastructure is essential to this transition. Shell is pleased to partner with TATA.ev to accelerate the development of a robust national EV charging network, uniting two trusted leaders to set a new benchmark for charging excellence. Our MegaCharging Hubs deliver industry leading reliability, world-class safety, and a premium, seamless charging experience through ultra-fast charging and premium customer services. Together, combining Shell’s global energy expertise with TATA.ev’s electric mobility leadership, we are committed to building a best-in-class EV charging ecosystem defined by performance, safety, and superior customer experience.”

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Olectra Greentech has received a Letter of Intent (LOI) from the Telangana State Road Transport Corporation (TGSRTC) for the supply of 1,085 electric buses. The order, facilitated through Evey Trans, is part of the PM E-DRIVE initiative led by Convergence Energy Services (CESL).

The company currently holds the largest market share in the Indian electric bus segment. With over 3,600 e-buses deployed and an order book surpassing 10,000 units, Olectra has recorded more than 500 million kilometres of operations across India.

The buses for TGSRTC will be 12-metre, low-floor vehicles, available in air-conditioned and non-air-conditioned variants. The units are engineered for local road conditions and urban frequency.

The e-buses have a claimed range of over 250 km per charge, it can be fast-charged in around 45 minutes, features front & rear air suspension systems and is wheelchair friendly.

The deployment will take place in Hyderabad, where Olectra is headquartered. The buses are intended to replace or augment existing fleets to reduce emissions within the city's transport ecosystem.

Mahesh Babu, Managing Director, Olectra Greentech, said, “This is a defining moment for the Olectra family and a significant milestone in our journey of powering India’s electric mobility transformation. Our continued commitment to the Make in India vision and to building world-class electric buses has received strong reinforcement through this prestigious order under the PM E-DRIVE programme. We are proud to bring our advanced, reliable, and indigenously developed electric mobility solutions to Telangana. Hyderabad is not just our home state, but a city that represents innovation and progress. We look forward to working closely with TGSRTC to deliver efficient, comfortable, and sustainable public transportation that meets the evolving expectations of citizens while contributing meaningfully to India’s clean energy and net-zero ambitions.”

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