Supporting a smart manufacturing shift across industry sectors by offering robot systems, Automated Guided Vehicles (AGVs), mobility solutions (mobile platforms, mobile robots etc.) and technologies (arc welding, assembly, bonding and sealing, die casting, extrusion etc.), Kuka is confident of its new operating ecosystem iiQKA significantly simplifying robot use. Forming the base of an entire ecosystem that provides access to a powerful selection of components, programmes, apps, services and equipment that are easy to install, operate and use, iiQKA is designed and developed to facilitate newcomers to implement automation without specialised training. Also announcing the upgradation of its simulation software Kuka.Sim.4.0, Kuka is confident of automation benefitting in the medium-term against Covid-19 disruption. As per Peter Mohnen, CEO, Kuka AG, automation can be beneficial in the medium-term against the Covid-19 disruption for manufacturers rethinking their vulnerable, globally networked production and supply chains.

Big shift to flexible automation systems

Stating in his address to the shareholders in the 2020 annual report that the company implemented a cost-cutting drive and focused on a stable financial position, Mohnen averred that Kuka was one of the very few ‘full-range’ suppliers. Keeping a close eye on the developments taking place across the world markets that it is presently in, the company – with sales revenues of EUR 2.6 billion and an employee strength of 14,000 – is confident of its Kuka.Sim.4.0 software to help reach a new level of planning reliability, simplicity and cost efficiency. Stressing on the upgraded software facilitating easy offline programming of the robot and fast cycle time analysis, Kuka is anticipating a big shift to flexible automation solutions with quickly adaptable production cells instead of rigid systems. It is highlighting the prowess of Kuka.Sim.4.0 software in its ability to support the import of CAD data that aids configuration of safety spaces graphically in 3D and to simulate the stopping behaviour of robots.

Affected in 2020 as projects were postponed or abandoned completely, Kuka is of the view that the auto industry is facing a fundamental structural transformation that offers opportunities but poses enormous challenges at the same time. Confident that the Kuka.Sim.4.0 software will particularly aid components suppliers with its ability to facilitate the planning of robot applications across industry sectors, including auto, the company is looking at a growing use of new technologies such as AGVs and AI-based software solutions. Helped by China’s auto industry’s tremendous thrust on robot installation since 2016 in terms of growth, Kuka is banking on the upgraded software’s capability in significantly reducing the area required by a cell. Roland Ritter, Portfolio Manager, Kuka AG, mentioned that it also contains a new robot language called the ‘Kuka Robot Language’ (KRL), which provides two user views for programming the robot. One view is for the experts and the other is for beginners. Ensuring same data is being worked upon by the virtual controller and the real controller, the Kuka.Sim.4.0 supports the new KR Scara and KR Delta robots from its manufacturer. It also assures 100 percent data consistency.

Features, and more features

Aiding the creation of a customised component library using own CAD data along with Kuka.Sim.Modeling add-on, the Kuka.Sim.4.0 software is also supported by a new ‘Connectivity’ add-on that allows users to commission the cell virtually and create a digital twin for greater planning reliability and the best possible implementation. Interestingly, the customised component library could be as kinematic systems, sensors, material flow or physical behaviour. Using behavioural emulators such as WinMOD and SIMIT, the software, with the Arc Welding add-on, aids users to speed up their offline programming for welding applications. The approach positions or the optimum orientation of the robot for the welding process can be defined, for example. A big advantage of the new software, according to Ritter, is export possibilities. Integrators, he adds, will benefit from the ability to export the simulation as a 3D PDF, which can be simply opened with an Acrobat Reader.

Detailed information in 2D for mechanical commissioning can also be provided via the export feature. One of the highlights of this is product presentation using a virtual reality headset. Tablets and smartphones also deliver impressive simulation results on the go via the Mobile Viewer app, informs Ritter. Signing a major contract with Daimler to supply four-figure number of robots and linear units (KR Fortec and KR Quantec), and other Kuka technologies such as software and controllers, the company has maintained a positive outlook despite Covid-19. Working towards strengthening its position as a global player, Kuka is driving the goal of making automation available to everyone. Looking at conquering new areas and new markets, it is stressing on the potential for cobots – sensitive robots – in the auto industry.

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Green SM, the electric vehicle ride-hailing service company of Vietnamese conglomerate Vingroup has officially launched Green SM Limo service in New Delhi, marking its strategic entry into the Indian market.

India represents the company's fifth international territory, following active deployments in Vietnam, Laos, Indonesia and the Philippines.

The inauguration ceremony was attended by prominent dignitaries, including Rao Narbir Singh, Minister for Industries & Commerce, Environment, Forest & Wildlife, Foreign Cooperation, and Sainik & Ardh Sainik Welfare for the Government of Haryana and Dr. Virinder Sharma, Vice-President of the Commission for Air Quality Management. Representatives from the Embassy of Vietnam in India and various strategic industrial sectors were also present.

In its initial phase, Green SM Limo will operate exclusively within key areas of the Delhi National Capital Region (NCR), with plans to scale service coverage incrementally in response to consumer demand. The service features a specialised, single-model electric fleet tailored for premium passenger transport.

The fleet consists entirely of the VinFast Limo Green, a fully electric, 7-seater SUV that produces zero tailpipe emissions. To optimise passenger comfort during business commutes, family trips, or airport transfers, each vehicle is stocked with complimentary drinking water, wet tissues and essential travel amenities. Vehicles are integrated with a proprietary Secure-to-Safe system, which features interior and exterior monitoring cameras, AI-powered driving assists and dedicated emergency support buttons accessible by both the driver and passengers.

Operating under the core service commitment of ‘Ride 5 Star,’ Green SM Limo utilises a team of professionally trained ‘Green Drivers’ instructed in specialised electric vehicle mechanics, defensive driving and hospitality workflows.

Passengers within the active Delhi NCR zones can secure rides through three primary channels:

• The Green SM mobile application (available on the iOS App Store and Google Play).
• A dedicated telephone service hotline.
• Direct street-hailing within valid Green SM operating parameters.

To celebrate its market entry, Green SM is offering a 50 percent discount (up to INR 250) for all rides booked via its official app from 5 June to 11 June 2026.

Coinciding with the brand launch, Green SM inducted five local Indian partners spanning the mobility, travel, technology and service sectors into its Green Alliance Frontier. This global platform is designed to connect eco-conscious commercial enterprises to encourage collaborative cross-market innovation and accelerate localized green transformations.

Nguyen Van Thanh, Global CEO, GSM, said, “India is one of the most important mobility markets in the world. Its scale, rapid growth, and strong spirit of innovation are opening up many opportunities for the future of green transportation. We come to India with respect for the market, confidence in its long-term potential, and a commitment to working closely with local partners. Green SM hopes to bring high-quality fully electric rides to customers, while contributing to broader access to safe, reliable, and more sustainable mobility choices."

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Toyota Kirloskar Motor, a leading passenger vehicle manufacturer, has announced a national partnership with Animation Express for the multi-city Anime India 2026 convention series.

The collaboration is designed to deepen the automaker's brand engagement with Gen Z and millennial demographics by blending automotive showcases with contemporary pop culture.

The partnership will officially kick off with the Delhi edition of the convention, scheduled for 6-7 June 2026, at Yashobhoomi in New Delhi. As one of the country's leading ticketed anime conventions – having drawn over 60,000 attendees across its last two iterations – the event celebrates licensed anime, manga, gaming and Japanese pop culture.

The event will see a live performance by popular Japanese musical artist Yurika and a highly anticipated first appearance in India by veteran Japanese voice actor Inoue Kazuhiko, globally recognised for voicing the character Kakashi in the hit anime series Naruto.

Toyota Kirloskar Motor will deploy an immersive on-ground experiential showcase featuring interactive customer touchpoints and themed vehicle wraps. Toyota will exhibit three of its popular passenger models across the venue: Urban Cruiser Hyryder (Flagship Booth), Toyota Glanza and Urban Cruiser Taisor.

To directly appeal to convention attendees, all three display cars will feature custom exterior wraps inspired by the globally renowned anime franchise 'Attack on Titan'. The flagship Hyryder booth will also drive community engagement through gamified activations, including a stamp rally, a spin-the-wheel game, and a live quiz competition.

Sabari Manohar, Executive Vice-President of Sales-Service-Used Car Business at Toyota Kirloskar Motor, said, “Anime India offers a unique platform to connect with a highly passionate community that strongly identifies with creativity, self-expression and contemporary pop culture. As an innovative, new-age format, Anime India presents an exciting opportunity to engage meaningfully with the Gen Z audiences. Through this partnership, we aim to further position Toyota as an exciting brand that resonates with younger customers by creating engaging and culturally relevant experiences."

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Caterham has announced the appointment of three new official retailers across Europe, strengthening the brand’s presence in key markets. Caterham Noville in Switzerland, Caterham Barcelona in Spain and Caterham Colmar in France will bring the iconic Seven model closer to driving enthusiasts in their respective regions.

In Switzerland, Caterham Noville joins the Leuba Collection, an organisation known for its dedication to automotive excellence and heritage. Kevin Duffournet, Head of the Collection, will lead his team in providing Swiss customers with expert guidance on the Caterham range along with dedicated aftersales support.

The Spanish expansion sees Hirundo Motors, the team behind Caterham Madrid, launch Caterham Barcelona under CEO Bernardo Bello. The new Catalan showroom aims to grow the Seven’s presence in Spain, deliver the brand’s pure and simple driving experience and serve existing owners with aftersales support.

Meanwhile, France gains Caterham Colmar in the Alsace region, managed by Julien Paques of PJ Sportscars. Leveraging his specialist automotive experience, Paques and his team are well positioned to deliver the pure driving experience for which Caterham is renowned.

Olivier Jouanne, European Territory Manager, Caterham, said, "We are absolutely delighted to welcome Caterham Noville, Caterham Barcelona and Caterham Colmar to our European retail network. Europe continues to be a crucially important market for the brand. By partnering with experienced and highly passionate individuals like Kevin, Bernardo and Julien, we can ensure that our customers receive the exceptional service, expertise and enthusiasm they expect when purchasing a Seven."

Kevin Duffournet, Head of the Leuba Collection (Caterham Noville), said, "We are proud to welcome Caterham within Leuba Collection in Noville and to officially represent such an iconic and authentic British sports car brand in Switzerland. In an increasingly digital automotive world, Caterham remains one of the last brands delivering a truly raw and mechanical driving experience. Our ambition is to develop the brand in Switzerland through a premium customer experience, exclusive events and a true community of driving enthusiasts.

Bernardo Bello, CEO, Hirundo Motors (Caterham Barcelona), said, “After three years operating from Madrid, we are delighted to expand the Caterham brand presence in Spain, starting with Barcelona because of the passion and support from all the Caterham lovers in Spain since we are back in 2023. With this opening, we will be able to offer customers in the Cataluña region comprehensive sales and authorised service together with motorsport and track events. We aim to keep growing our community in Spain by enabling more car lovers the thrill of driving a Caterham and feel first-hand what is like to feel something so pure, simple and fun.”

Julien Paques, Managing Director, PJ Sportscars (Caterham Colmar), said, "We are particularly proud and thrilled to officially represent the Caterham brand in Eastern France and to offer our customers a comprehensive experience, from vehicle sales to authorised after-sales service. Our ambition is to expand Caterham's footprint nationwide – both within our dealership and during enthusiast gatherings, track days or motorsport events. We look forward to sharing with the brand’s enthusiasts the pure joy of driving that makes Caterham legendary."

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Haryana-based Victura Technologies (formerly Victora Auto), an automotive component supplier, has strengthened its leadership team with the appointment of Vineet Sahni as the new CEO.

Sahni, an automotive industry veteran, comes with over 25-years of experience across companies. In his last stint, he was the CEO and Director at FIEM Industries, where he led the company for over three years from May 2023.

He had started his career in September 1999 as Head of Business Development at erstwhile Schefenacker Motherson (now Samvardhana Motherson), before joining Minda Industries in November 2011, where he is credited with scaling up the lighting division business from USD 4 million to USD 60 million in a matter of six years.

Sahni then moved to Varroc Engineering in December 2011 as Director and President, before joining Lumax Industries in May 2013 as CEO, spending close to a decade at the company.

In his new role at Victura Technologies, Sahni will be responsible for leading 20 manufacturing facilities spread across India. The Group provides complete engineering solutions in sheet metal stamping, tube & wire bending, forging, machining, aluminium casting, investment casting, laser cutting and laser welding for two-wheelers, four-wheelers, electric vehicles, off-road vehicles and trucks. For FY2025, the Victura Group reported revenue of INR 80 billion.

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