A good 15m long, the Mercedes-Benz OC 500 RF 2542 has two-axles at the rear and one at the front. Its name suggests it to be German. It is therefore perhaps that a European influence is evident from the smooth surfaces and well-defined lines of the G-Python’s exterior design. The standards of fit and finish are good. A sense of sleek and muscular build apparent from the vehicle’s exterior design, the G-Python, according to Kukreja, draws inspiration from the python’s prowess and size. He drew attention to the fine curves and added, “Look carefully at the headlamps; they will remind you of the eyes of a python. They shine like diamonds”. Reflecting luxury, style and an ability to stand out, the sleek and sweeping headlamps of the G-Python coach body work make an interesting part of the facia. The facia in turn has a large windshield with a black theme patch at its bottom. The pasted windows and tall sides of the G-Python nicely complement the facia design, highlighting a good sense of proportion in the process. Like a fully grown python – a reticulated python (Malayopython reticulatus) can reach over 6.25m in length and is termed as the longest snake in the world – the G-Python luxury coach design does appear long and attractive on the Mercedes-Benz multi-axle chassis. 
 

Finer detailing
Powering the Mercedes-Benz OC 500 RF 2542 is a 388 hp, six-cylinder Mercedes-Benz OM 470 Euro VI 10.7-litre diesel engine situated transversely at the rear. It is so located that it feeds power to one of the two rear axles. Its access is governed by an engine lid at the rear. When viewed from a three-fourth angle, the rear accommodates the engine compartment access lid nicely in a large black patch. Replicating the colour theme of the facia (there is a similar albeit smaller black patch under the windshield), the large rear patch of black cleverly hides the enormity of the coach structure. It is no doubt tall and fairly enormous when viewed against a car or a van! On either side of the black patch are sleek and stylish LED tail lamps. “True to our penchant for aerodynamic styling and discreet elegance, the G-Python coach design is based on a modular concept,” said Kukreja. “As much as the exterior, there’s much attention that has gone in the designing and building of the interior too,” he added. Containing diffused lighting, a warm shade of blue and white, the interior exudes a touch of luxury and elegance, much the same way the exterior does. 
 

Employing CR tubes and fire retardant FRP material in its construction, the interior of the G-Python coach design offers good space between each seat row. The seats of the reclining variety are designed and positioned to offer maximum comfort and leg room for passengers. This makes for a relaxing atmosphere. Cabin isolation is brought up to speed with much use of insulation material. “There’s been a good deal of innovation that has gone into the noise isolation of the cabin,” averred Kukreja. With maximum luggage compartment space, easy to operate functions and a long list of optional features like heating, AC, LED screens, mobile-laptop charger, metallic paint, infotainment system, pantry and chemical toilet etc., the G-Python, when it comes to features, offers almost all the bells and whistles. “From the very inception of the design, we made sure that we could accommodate each and every feature that a coach operator could ask for,” Kukreja remarked. “The colour combination and graphics is optional.” 
 

Stating that the attention to European standards has ensured superior built quality, Kukreja said, “From the safety point of view, we have made every effort to exceed the regulatory requirements.” The G-Python coach design employs a laminated glass windshield. The pasted windows on the sides are of the toughened variety. The emergency door has been situated at the rear. Conforming to the bus code, the G-Python seeks proximity to a European integral coach design. It is capable of seating 53 passengers. Available in ‘semi-sleeper’ guise as well, there are no plans to introduce a ‘sleeper’ version as of now. “We may offer a ‘sleeper’ version in the future,” said Kukreja.  
 

An eye for quality 
Built with close attention to quality at Guru Ram Dass Body Builders’ Sonipat facility in Haryana, the G-Python coach body design flaunts a super strong reinforced structure that is crash resistant. It is backed by a pan-India after sales support. Offering ease of maintenance and service through easy accessibility to key aggregates and parts, the luxury coach body design is subject to regular updating, according to Kukreja. “This is in line with our philosophy to keep improving a design and incorporate new developments in bus/coach body design and development,” he added. Explaining that his company’s modern plant at Sonipat has state-of-the-art paint booth, shearing and press brake machines, an R&D centre, shower booth and an FRP moulding facility among others, Kukreja said, “The build quality of the G-Python is in line with the company’s quality management system and regulatory requirements.”  

Stressing on a robust quality control mechanism in place at GRD’s Sonipat plant to ensure thorough inspection of every material that is procured and every weld joint that is carried out on the structure, Kukreja expressed, “Trained professionals use calibrated measuring instruments and various other machines as part of the quality management system.” “There’s a ‘Red Table Area’ in the Sonipat plant where the selected and reject material are segregated,” he added. Explaining that the G-Python will complement the existing G-Dolfino bus body design, Kukreja averred, “They are more or less parallel offerings.” “The G-Dolfino was launched in 2019 and the G-Python was launched in June 2021,” he said. Asked if the G-Python coach body design would fit a 12m long front-engine bus chassis like the BharatBenz 1624, and Kukreja was quick to answer, “Modifications in the floor structure should make it possible.” Whether it would be done at once? Kukreja is not in favour it seems. “We will take a call on whether we want to offer the G-Python luxury coach body design on any other chassis than a rear engine multi-axle one,” he announced. “For the 12m long front-engine BharatBenz 1624, we have yet another fine design in the form of the G-Dolfino,” he concluded. The G-Dolfino, it should not take long to understand, is inspired by a Dolphin!
 

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French automotive major Renault Group has appointed Jean-Pierre Diernaz as Vice-President Renault Brand Global Marketing and Chief Branding Officer for all group brands, effective 14th September.

In his dual role, Diernaz will lead marketing activities for the Renault brand while directing the strategy for the group’s brand portfolio, which includes Renault, Dacia and Alpine.

As Vice-President of Renault Brand Global Marketing, Diernaz will oversee marketing operations with a focus on integrating digital systems, data analytics, artificial intelligence and performance management tools into customer engagement strategies. His mandate forms part of the group's futuREady strategic plan, which aims to drive electrification in European markets and expand sales presence across international territories. In his capacity as Chief Branding Officer across all brands, he will manage the market positioning and distinction of each individual badge within the Renault Group portfolio.

Diernaz comes with over 25 years of automotive industry experience. He began his career at Ford before moving to Nissan in 2005, where he held leadership positions including Advertising Director Europe and Vice-President, Marketing & Digital Europe, alongside executive roles at Infiniti.

In 2019, he joined automotive digital transformation firm MotorK as Chief Strategy Officer. Prior to his appointment at Renault, he served at General Motors Europe as Chief Marketing Officer and subsequently as President and Managing Director.

Fabrice Cambolive, CEO Renault Brand and Chief Growth Officer of Renault Group, said, "Jean-Pierre Diernaz is joining Renault at a pivotal moment. Over the past few years, we have embarked on a profound transformation, and our ambition is now to go even further: harnessing the power of the brand, customer insights and new technologies to deliver stronger and more sustainable growth. Jean-Pierre will be responsible for continuing the work already underway to strengthen our ability to create emotion, desire and brand preference. He will also make a decisive contribution to the evolution of our marketing activities by further integrating data, AI and new performance management tools. His ability to combine creativity and digital innovation in service of the business, together with his international perspective, will be essential to sustaining the momentum around electrification in Europe, supporting our development in international markets and contributing to the implementation of the futuREady plan."

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The Sri Lanka Automotive Component Manufacturers’ Association (SLACMA) has appointed its latest Executive Committee, bringing together industry representatives from across the country’s component manufacturing sector.

The new leadership team takes office as Sri Lanka seeks to expand local vehicle assembly, increase domestic value addition and integrate local suppliers into regional and international supply chains.

The association represents manufacturers producing rubber products, electrical components, springs, seating systems, metal parts, trailers and other vehicle assemblies.

A core focus for the organisation is expanding industrial links with India to leverage its automotive manufacturing ecosystem and supplier network.

At present, SLACMA maintains a formal partnership with the Automotive Component Manufacturers Association of India (ACMA) via a Memorandum of Understanding, an initiative commemorated during Automechanika New Delhi 2026 to mark 10-years of institutional cooperation.

The implementation of Sri Lanka’s vehicle assembly Standard Operating Procedure (SOP) has created frameworks for local component integration. Local suppliers currently manufacture parts for vehicle assembly programs involving international and Indian brands, including Tata Motors, TVS Motor Co, Bajaj Auto, Mahindra & Mahindra, Ashok Leyland, Hyundai Motor India, BAIC, DFSK, JAC Motors, Proton, Wuling, JMC and Chery.

In global markets, Sri Lankan manufacturers supply components to international original equipment manufacturers. Lanka Harness Company produces safety components, including airbag sensor switches, seatbelt sensor switches and sun visor harnesses for brands such as Toyota Motor Corporation, Aston Martin and BMW. Electronics manufacturing services provider Variosystems manufactures electronic assemblies for international clients, including Bombardier.

The newly appointed Executive Committee is led by President Dimantha Jayawardena, Vice-President Athula Haputantri, Secretary Thisal Jayathilaka, Treasurer Dr Shriyantha Cooray and Deputy Secretary Vidurshan Gopalakrishnan.

The committee members represent brands such as Shamini Rubber Industries, Modicon Group, Bopitiya Auto Springs, Dyno Innovations, OREL Group, M.V. Electronic, Accolade Ventures Group and LPG Rubber Industries.

Dimantha Jayawardena, President, SLACMA, said, “As an Association, our priority will be to work collectively with our members, policymakers and industry stakeholders to address the challenges facing the sector while creating opportunities for greater local value addition, technological advancement and international competitiveness. I am confident that, with the experience and commitment of the new Committee, SLACMA can continue to build a stronger platform for collaboration and contribute meaningfully towards the long-term development of Sri Lanka’s automotive manufacturing industry.”

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Indian automotive retail sales reached nearly 2.5 million units in August 2026, marking its best-ever performance for the month. A total of 2.42 million units were sold last month, which translates to a 17.51 percent YoY growth as per the latest data released by the Federation of Automobile Dealers Associations (FADA).

In terms of segment-wise sales, two-wheelers at 1.71 million units, passenger vehicles at 402,398 units, construction equipment at 5,166 units and commercial vehicles at 90,769 units, clocked strong double-digit YoY growth.

Interestingly, the penetration of alternative energy (CNG, hybrid and electric) in the passenger vehicle segment at 41.95 percent, surpassed petrol vehicle demand at 40.85 percent for the first time in the country.

The industry body attributed the shift to running-cost economics and continuing consumer hesitation around the E20 transition, which pushed petrol buyers towards CNG, hybrids and EVs.

Sai Giridhar, President, FADA, said, “Even as retails eased 6.48 percent over a record July on the seasonal monsoon lull and a festival calendar that shifted Ganesh Chaturthi and the spillover of Onam-led buying into September. Two-wheelers, passenger vehicles, commercial vehicles, tractors and three-wheelers each set fresh August records, and overall registrations were the highest ever for the month.”

“The defining development of the month, however, was a structural one: for the first time in India’s history, alternative fuels – CNG, hybrid and electric combined – overtook petrol in the passenger vehicle market, at 41.95 percent against petrol’s 40.85 percent. A little over a year ago petrol led this contest by nearly 11 percentage points; that lead has now been erased. We would, however, read the headline with discipline: much of the YoY strength rests on a soft August 2025 base, when buyers had deferred purchases awaiting the GST 2.0 rate cut, and dealers report that the festive curtain-raiser came in below their own expectations – the true test of the season lies in showroom conversion through September to November, not in year-on-year optics,” he said.

On the other hand, tractor sales at 87,977 units, witnessed flat growth, due to the widening monsoon deficit of about 13 percent across 14 states.

But rural passenger vehicles at 24.9 percent YoY, as against 10.9 percent YoY growth in the urban segment, pointing to a stronger base demand decoupled from the monsoon.

“Rural demand, in other words, has begun to decouple from the monsoon — the farm-income-linked segment softened, yet the non-farm rural economy of livelihood mobility, goods movement and construction kept accelerating. For an industry long accustomed to reading rural India through the rainfall map, that is the quiet structural marker of FY27, and a measure of how broad-based Bharat’s consumption has become,” pointed out Giridhar.

The two-wheeler segment at 1.71 million units recorded its peak for August since 2018, despite a 5.7 percent decline over July 2026.

FADA attributed sustained GST 2.0 affordability and steady rural demand to the performance. Interestingly, electrification in the segment crossed the 10 percent mark at 10.68 percent, as against 7.6 percent a year ago.

Similarly, electrification in the commercial vehicle segment too reached its highest-ever at 5.18 percent from a 2.06 percent penetration last year.

FADA expressed caution on the passenger vehicle inventory rose to 38-40 days, an additional 5 days over July 2026, as against the recommended 21-day benchmark. “With festive stocking now underway, we urge PV OEMs to bill strictly to retail so that dealer capital is not locked in ageing inventory,” said Giridhar.

Going forward, the industry body expects a positive growth story with the festive season leading to increased demand. But widening monsoon deficit and price hikes by OEMs could affect demand.

Furthermore, FADA has shared its outlook for the three-month period (September to November), which incorporates major festivals including Ganesh Chaturthi, Navratri, Dhanteras, and Diwali (November).

Dealers identified festive demand failing to meet expectations as the primary operational risk, cited by 29.06 percent of respondents. Additional risks include the impact of below-normal rainfall on rural demand, noted by 17.52 percent of dealers, and price increases affecting consumer affordability, identified by 11.11 percent.

FADA stated that retail sales figures for October and November will be compared against the previous year's high base, which was influenced by GST rate adjustments, alongside the calendar shift of Diwali into November. Total retail sales for the 2027 financial year have risen 18.47 percent over the initial five-month period. FADA noted that price increases driven by input costs have reduced the consumer affordability cushion provided by tax revisions across entry-level passenger vehicles, commuter two-wheelers, and commercial vehicles.

The industry body highlighted supporting structural factors, including a stable central bank repo rate, electric vehicle promotion policies and rural economic growth. Non-fossil fuel powertrains have passed petrol options in passenger vehicle retail volumes. Water reservoir levels supporting the upcoming Rabi crop cycle and non-agricultural rural activity were cited as additional factors supporting demand across rural regions.

“Two-wheelers should draw support from festive demand and the alternative-fuel shift, though rural cashflows remain hostage to late-season rainfall; Passenger vehicles enter September with fresh launches and healthy pipelines but must convert them against elevated inventory and a demanding base; and Commercial Vehicles should firm up as post-monsoon freight, infrastructure and harvest movement resume. Overall, the outlook for September’26 appears Cautiously Optimistic – with festive conversion and the monsoon’s closing behaviour the key swing factors,” concluded Giridhar.

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The Executive Committee of the Society of Indian Automobile Manufacturers (SIAM) has elected Shenu Agarwal, Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer of Ashok Leyland, as its President for the 2026–27 term.

The election took place during the organisation's Executive Committee meeting in New Delhi.

Agarwal, who previously served as Vice-President of the SIAM, succeeds Shailesh Chandra, Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer of Tata Motors Passenger Vehicles.

The Executive Committee also elected K N Radhakrishnan, Director and Chief Executive Officer of TVS Motor Company, as Vice-President for the 2026–27 term. Santosh Iyer, Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer of Mercedes-Benz India, was elected as Treasurer.

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