The iconic Mercedes Gelandewagen, popularly known as G-Class, will pack a robust electric powertrain under the hood, informed Mercedes-Benz India Chief Executive Officer Santosh Iyer during the company’s fourth Annual Press Conference. 

Unveiling the new G 580, Vice President Sales and Marketing Lance Bennett said, “The electric Gelandewagen is powered by the EQ technology and more. Electrifying this iconic vehicle presented several challenges as we needed to preserve its signature design and legendary off-road capabilities. Integrating EV components required us to develop a unique drive system featuring four individual electric motors.”  

“At the rear, the motors are connected to form a rigid axle, ensuring exceptional off-road traction. The axle is equipped with a two-speed gearbox, enabling gear reduction for low-range, off-road performance. The G 580 stands apart from other G-Class models with its raised bonnet and rear wheel arch air curtains. These elements are seamlessly integrated to improve aerodynamics and acoustic performance.”  

The electric variant delivers 587 horsepower and an astounding 1,164 Nm of torque, courtesy of its four electric motors. It accelerates from 0 to 100 km/h in just 4.7 seconds. Powered by a large 116 kWh battery and an intelligent recuperation system, it offers a WLTP range of up to 473 kilometers. Fast charging from 10 percent to 80 percent takes only 32 minutes.  

Like every G-Class, the G 580 underwent the legendary Schöckl test, completing the grueling trail 336 times. This symbolic number guarantees every G-Class meets the highest standards of durability, reliability and off-road capability, earning it the Schöckl badge displayed on the B-pillar.  

“To put this into perspective, the G 580 can complete the Schöckl trail 13 times on a single charge. Its electric drivetrain and low-range gearbox make it the most capable off-roader in its class. It can climb inclines of up to 45 degrees—even in reverse—and wade through water up to 850 mm deep,” added Bennett.   

“Engineers have designed a water- and dust-proof battery pack, encased within the ladder chassis. The innovative four-motor drive system also allows for unique off-road maneuvers, enabling the vehicle to pivot on the spot by up to 720 degrees. This feature ensures that if you reach a dead end on a trail, you can turn around with ease.

Another highlight is the G-Steer function, which tightens the turning circle off-road by braking the inner wheel to slide the rear end around sharp bends,” revealed the executive.   

Inside, the electric off-road cockpit and Dynamic Select system offer a range of driving modes. In Rock Mode, the G 580 crawls effortlessly in low range with speed adjustable via steering wheel paddles, making hill ascents and descents seamless.  

The G 580 is available in a special Edition 1 model, offered in five colors including the exclusive Manufaktur South Sea Blue Magno. This edition features AMG line styling, the night package and 20-inch black alloy wheels. Additional details include blacked-out door handles with keyless go and blue brake calipers.  

The G580 is priced at INR 30 million (ex-showroom, pan-India). This icon has already garnered electrifying demand and is sold out until Q3 2025! Bookings and deliveries for the G 580 will start in Q4 2025, noted a company official. 

EQS 450 SUV

The company also launched its 5-Seater EQS 450 SUV during the event. Commenting on the same, Iyer noted, “The EQS 450 SUV builds on the success of the EQS 580, which we launched a few months ago. The EQS 450 caters to customers seeking cutting-edge technology, generous space, and sustainability at its core.”  

“We launched the EQS 580 in September last year in a 7-seater configuration. The response was phenomenal. We received feedback that there was a demand for both 7-seater and 5-seater variants. The EQS 580 exceeded all expectations, selling out within three months of its launch. Deliveries for the 7-seater will resume in April 2025, while the 5-seater variant is set to roll out soon.  The EQS SUV line-up now includes two configurations: the 7-seater EQS 580, ideal for larger families with pets and frequent travel needs and the 5-seater EQS 450, designed for nuclear families who still want generous luggage space,” he added.   

The EQS 450 comes in the electric art line, which distinguishes it from the 7-seater variant. It boasts features like energising air control, advanced luggage capacity and an impressive WLTP-certified range of 820 kilometers, making it one of the longest-range electric SUVs.  

It is priced at INR 12.8 million(ex-showroom). Deliveries will begin in February 2025. 

Look back into 2024

It was reported that Mercedes-Benz India achieved its best-ever sales of 19,565 units during the January to December 2024 period, representing a 12.4 percent increase compared to the 17,408 units sold in the same period in 2023. Growth during the second half of 2024 (July to December) was noted to be a strong 16 percent.

The fastest-growing segment was top-end vehicles (TEVs), which experienced a 30 percent year-to-date (YTD) growth. It was also highlighted that one out of every four Mercedes-Benz cars sold in India in 2024 was a TEV.
Battery electric vehicles (BEVs) also marked its best-ever sales with a 94 percent YTD growth, achieving over 6 percent sales penetration. It was noted that Mercedes-Benz introduced four new BEVs in 2024 namely, EQA 250+, EQB SUV, EQS SUV 580 and the Maybach EQS SUV. This expansion of the BEV portfolio reportedly generated significant customer interest and reinforced Mercedes-Benz’s leadership in the luxury BEV segment by achieving its highest-ever annual BEV sales.  

Moreover, the company achieved the sale of 200,000 cars in India since 1994. It was mentioned that of these, 100,000 cars were sold in just the last six years (2019–2024). 

Mercedes-Benz Financial Services also achieved a portfolio of INR 10 billion in India with over 50 percent penetration. It was stated that every second Mercedes-Benz retailed in India was financed through the service, which also attained an 80 percent insurance penetration rate. 

Road Ahead

The company revealed plans for the launch of eight new models in 2025 with most focusing on BEVs and TEVs to offer consumers the latest products and cutting-edge intuitive technology. The company was also reported to expand its luxury network reach in 2025, planning 20 new luxury outlets supported by a commitment of over INR 4.5 billion in investment from franchise partners over three years.

It was stated that the focus on TEVs extended beyond cars with plans to partner for dedicated stores selling Maybach collection items, the first of which would be opening in Bengaluru.

Mercedes-Benz India announced a collaboration with Tata Cliq Luxury to allow enthusiasts to purchase or gift exclusive Mercedes-Benz collection items online through the ‘House of Mercedes-Benz’. 

To mark the milestone of 200,000 vehicles on Indian roads, Mercedes-Benz reportedly launched several corporate citizenship initiatives. The company committed INR 75 million to road safety initiatives aimed at reducing accidents and fatalities on highways like the ‘Samrudhhi Mahamarg’ and the ‘Nizamabad Corridor’ in Hyderabad.

Additionally, a new retail campaign was launched to celebrate the 200,000 milestone, offering exclusive event invitations to existing customers and a chance for a lucky new customer to attend the F1 race in Monaco.

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  - uthpsl May 04, 2025 20:09 PM

  Mercedes-Benz is redefining luxury and innovation with the all-electric G 580-combining rugged off-road legacy with cutting-edge EV tech. The 4-motor setup, Schöckl-tested toughness, and futuristic features make it a game-changer. Pair that with the EQS 450’s record-breaking range, and it’s clear: the future of electric luxury is already here!

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Chennai-headquartered commercial vehicle major Ashok Leyland, the flagship company of the Hinduja Group, has reported its financial results for Q2 FY2027. The company recorded wholesales of 64,677 units, a 32 percent increase from 49,116 units a year ago.

The company’s revenue grew 39 percent to INR 133.64 billion compared with INR 95.88 billion a year ago, EBITDA reached INR 13.50 billion at a margin of 10.1 percent, while profit before tax rose 14 percent to INR 11.87 billion and profit after tax increased 13 percent to INR 8.69 billion. The company ended the quarter with net cash of INR 35.46 billion, up from INR 9.90 billion a year ago.

In the medium and heavy commercial vehicle (MHCV) segment, volumes grew 44 percent YoY to 37,958 units, outpacing industry growth of 39 percent, while truck volumes rose 48 percent to secure a 31.5 percent market share excluding defence.

Light commercial vehicle (LCV) volumes increased 21 percent to 21,371 units, lifting VAHAN market share in addressable segments to 13.6 percent, while export volumes grew 7 percent to 5,102 units. Alongside growth in its defence, power solutions and aftermarket divisions, the company introduced products across the tipper, bus, haulage, and LCV categories and expanded its distribution network.

Dheeraj Hinduja, Chairman, Ashok Leyland, said, “Our record Q2 performance reflects the strength of Ashok Leyland’s business fundamentals, competitive product portfolio and strong customer focus. Our robust balance sheet provides a solid foundation to pursue our long-term growth ambitions. We are encouraged by the promising performance of our international business and continue to strengthen our presence in key export markets. Switch Mobility is also progressing well, with a strong outlook for the electric mobility business. With positive momentum across our businesses, we remain confident of sustaining profitable growth and creating long-term value for our stakeholders.”

Shenu Agarwal, MD and CEO, Ashok Leyland, said, “Our record Q2 performance, coupled with market share gains and fifteen consecutive quarters of double-digit EBITDA margins, reflects our consistent focus on profitable growth. Our strong cash position gives us the financial flexibility to invest in future technologies, innovation and new products, further strengthening our competitiveness. We are further investing in innovative product platforms and world class service processes, which would help us in sustaining our growth momentum.”

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Tata Motors Passenger Vehicles expects to sustain double-digit growth of around 12-13 percent in FY2027, supported by strong demand across its portfolio, increasing penetration of electric vehicles (EVs) and CNG models, and an expanding product line-up. However, the company expects growth to moderate in the second half of the financial year as the industry navigates a high year-on-year base.

Speaking during the company's Q2 FY2027 earnings conference call, Shailesh Chandra, Managing Director, Tata Motors Passenger Vehicles, said the Indian passenger vehicle industry had registered 29 percent YoY growth, with absolute volumes expected to remain strong despite some moderation in growth rates.

Tata Motors recorded its highest-ever quarterly passenger vehicle volumes of approximately 200,000 units during Q2 FY2027, registering 40 percent YoY growth and securing a domestic market share of 14.3 percent. The company also reported market share of 14.8 percent in October 2026, with sales exceeding 75,000 units.

The Tata Punch emerged as the highest-selling passenger vehicle model in the industry during the quarter, while the Punch and Nexon both featured among the top five models. The recently launched Tata Aeris has also received an encouraging market response, adding to the company's growth momentum.

Chandra emphasised that the company's growth was being driven by demand across its portfolio rather than aggressive market-share acquisition. "We are not trying to buy market share; we are just trying to fulfil the demand, which exceeds supply," he said.

Green powertrains are becoming increasingly important to Tata Motors' passenger vehicle business, with EVs and CNG vehicles together accounting for approximately 50 percent of its sales.

The company's EV market share stood at 43 percent despite intensifying competition and the entry of almost all major automotive manufacturers into the segment. Chandra attributed the broader expansion of the EV market to improving product offerings, longer driving ranges, stronger warranty coverage and supportive regulations.

Tata Motors expects EV penetration to increase further as production capacity improves. The company currently has only around 10 days of EV inventory, reflecting demand that continues to outpace supply. Its EV production is expected to increase to nearly 20,000 units over the next two to three months, compared with approximately 9,000 units in the corresponding period of the previous year.

Chandra indicated that capacity constraints had prevented the company from fully capitalising on EV demand, with all manufacturing facilities operating at full capacity. The company estimates that it is currently addressing only around 60-65 percent of the demand-supply gap.

CNG is another significant growth driver. Industry CNG penetration has reached approximately 25 percent, with CNG passenger vehicle volumes growing around 70 percent. Increasing OEM participation, a wider choice of products and the expansion of the CNG refuelling network, which has reached approximately 9,000 stations, are supporting adoption.

Tata Motors has also witnessed its highest-ever quarterly CNG volumes. The company believes the segment has further headroom for growth, although supply constraints remain a limiting factor.

Supply chain remain priorities

With demand continuing to exceed supply in several segments, Tata Motors is focusing on improving production capabilities and addressing supply chain constraints.

The company acknowledged some pressure on semiconductor availability but said it had managed to secure supplies at higher costs without losing production. Supply-side challenges are also being addressed through capacity ramp-ups, particularly for electric vehicles.

Rural markets have emerged as another area of strength. Rural retail sales currently account for approximately 44-45 percent of Tata Motors' passenger vehicle sales, with recent growth in rural markets marginally outpacing urban demand. Chandra attributed this partly to the company's expansion of its reach in these markets.

The company expects the Indian passenger vehicle market to maintain healthy absolute volumes, although the 29 percent industry growth recorded in the second quarter is unlikely to be sustained at the same rate because of the elevated base.

Commodity inflation puts margins under pressure

Despite strong volume growth, profitability remains under pressure from rising commodity prices, foreign exchange movements and supply chain costs.

Tata Motors Passenger Vehicles reported its highest-ever quarterly revenue of approximately INR 204 billion, up 50 percent YoY, while profit before tax was around breakeven. The company also highlighted the impact of commodity inflation, particularly in steel, rubber, copper and precious metals.

Chandra said the company had exercised financial discipline through the first two quarters, absorbing significant cost increases while avoiding large price hikes. It is assessing which commodity cost increases are structural and which could moderate over time.

Dhiman Gupta, CFO, Tata Motors Passenger Vehicles, said approximately 40 percent of the cost impact had been offset through price increases and cost-reduction initiatives, with the balance absorbed through the profit and loss account. The company continues to monitor the situation and has not ruled out further price increases if required.

Chandra indicated that Tata Motors could consider another price hike in Q4 FY2027, depending on the trajectory of input costs. However, the company intends to take a measured approach rather than passing on temporary cost increases through immediate price adjustments.

He also noted that the company did not foresee an immediate discounting environment, given that dealer inventory remained below 30 days.

JLR maintains investment roadmap amid global challenges

Jaguar Land Rover continues to pursue its 5-year investment plan despite a challenging operating environment. Richard Molyneux, Chief Financial Officer, JLR, said the company had revised its FY2027 EBIT margin guidance to 2-3 percent and expected to be marginally cash-positive in the second half of the financial year.

The company is progressing with the production and ramp-up of the Range Rover Electric and Range Rover Sport Electric. The Range Rover GT is expected in early calendar year 2027, followed by the Jaguar Type 01 in FY2028 (calendar year 2027).

Molyneux said the revised guidance factored in the challenges anticipated by the company while maintaining its planned product introduction schedule.

China remains a concern for JLR, reflecting broader challenges faced by Western automotive manufacturers in the market. The company is actively reviewing its China strategy, with a focus on managing dealer inventories and avoiding excessive discounting to protect market positioning.

Demand visibility remains strong

For Tata Motors Passenger Vehicles, the immediate priority is to convert strong demand into sales through improved production capacity, particularly in EVs and CNG vehicles, while managing rising input costs.

Chandra reiterated the company's expectation of 12-13 percent growth in FY2027, with a stronger first half followed by a more moderate second half because of the high comparative base. With EV and CNG adoption gaining momentum, the company expects green powertrains to play an increasingly significant role in its growth strategy.

The ability to ramp up production, manage commodity inflation and maintain pricing discipline will be critical to translating the current demand momentum into sustainable growth and improved profitability.

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Tata Motors Passenger Vehicles has announced its financial results for Q2 FY2027, reporting consolidated revenue of INR 969.2 billion, representing a 34 percent YoY growth. Consolidated EBITDA reached 6.2 percent with an EBIT margin of 1.1 percent, while profit before tax, before exceptional items, stood at INR 4.03 billion.

During the quarter, the company incurred an exceptional expenditure of INR 67 billion for employee separation costs and asset impairments.

In Q2 FY2027, Tata Motors’ domestic passenger vehicles business recorded its highest quarterly revenue at INR 204.23 billion, up 51 percent YoY, driven by a 40 percent volume growth. Electric vehicle volumes grew 90 percent YoY, pushing alternative powertrains past 50 percent penetration, with electric vehicles accounting for 23 percent and compressed natural gas (CNG) models at 28 percent. The domestic unit registered an EBITDA margin of 4 percent and an EBIT margin of -0.3 percent, affected by commodity costs and foreign exchange pressures, while generating a positive free cash flow of INR 8.25 billion.

Tata Motors-owned British marquee luxury brand Jaguar Land Rover reported revenue of GBP 5.9 billion, a 20.3 percent increase YoY, supported by wholesale volume recovery following cyber incidents in the previous year.

Jaguar Land Rover posted an EBITDA margin of 6.6 percent and an adjusted EBIT margin of 1.1 percent, with a profit before tax and exceptional items of GBP 6 million. During the quarter, Jaguar Land Rover unveiled three luxury electric vehicles – the Range Rover Electric, Range Rover Sport Electric, and the Jaguar Type 01 – built in the United Kingdom, alongside restructuring provisions of GBP 530 million and a free cash outflow of GBP 540 million.

Dhiman Gupta, CFO, Tata Motors Passenger Vehicles, said, “In Q2 FY27 TMPV continued to build on its strong momentum in the domestic business, while JLR delivered resilient volumes despite global market specific challenges and wind-down of previous Jaguar models. However, adverse mix and persistent commodity pressures weighed on margins. Both businesses remain fundamentally strong, and we stay focused on executing our medium-term priorities: driving growth through new launches, accelerating cost reductions and improving cash generation.”

PB Balaji, CEO, Jaguar Land Rover, said, “JLR delivered positive operating profits in the second quarter and first half of the financial year, despite ongoing global challenges. We launched three new products: Range Rover Electric, Range Rover Sport Electric and the show stopping Jaguar Type 01 at a world premiere in New York. With the proposed arrival of Range Rover GT and a new electric Defender product in the new year, we are entering a phase of exciting product launches. This, together with our growth plans for the US and disciplined execution of the Enterprise Missions to reduce our breakeven volumes to 300k units, positions us well to deliver consistent, cash-accretive growth in the coming years. I would like to thank all our people, supply chain and retail partners for their continued support.”

Shailesh Chandra, MD and CEO, Tata Motors Passenger Vehicles, said, “Q2 FY27 was another quarter of strong execution for Tata Motors PV, with record quarterly sales of 200k+ units and industry-beating growth of 40% YoY reflecting robust customer demand across our portfolio. We maintained our leadership in electric mobility, recording industry-beating growth of 90 percent YoY in EV sales. Building on the momentum of our Q1 launches, we further strengthened our portfolio with new launchings including the all-new Tata Aeris. We also unveiled our new customer-facing identity, TATA.CARS, reflecting the evolution of our brand in step with the aspirations of today's Indian car buyer. We registered a Y-o-Y revenue growth of 51 percent and our highest ever quarterly revenues of INR 204 billion in Q2FY27. While steep commodity cost pressures remained a headwind, we responded through calibrated pricing and focused cost actions. Looking ahead, we remain focused on sustaining industry-beating growth, capitalizing on growing EV-penetration, ramping up production capacity and strengthening profitability.”

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European auto major Stellantis recognised 61 suppliers from around the world on 10 November at its sixth annual Global Supplier Conference and Awards held at the Masonic Temple in Detroit.

During the event, 21 companies were named 2026 Suppliers of the Year, while 40 companies received recognition across categories covering materials, quality, innovation, programme management, corporate social responsibility, carbon reduction and value creation.

The conference brought together more than 1,000 supplier representatives and members of the Stellantis leadership team. Executives outlined priorities around programme launch execution, technologies, supplier engagement in design and quality standards to support the FaSTLAne 2030 strategy, alongside a presentation on Jeep brand strategy and the company's ties to the Chrysler, Dodge, Jeep and Ram brands in Detroit.

A cross-functional Stellantis team selected the recipients based on quality, delivery, innovation, operational and financial metrics, corporate social responsibility and competitiveness.

Antonio Filosa, CEO, Stellantis, said, “Delivering on our strategy requires us to move faster, innovate smarter and execute with excellence. Our suppliers are essential partners in this journey, helping us bring great products to market, strengthen our competitiveness and create greater value for our customers. Congratulations to all this year’s award winners, and thank you to our global supplier community for your partnership and continued commitment.”

Monica Genovese, Chief Purchasing Officer, Stellantis, said, “Strong supplier partnerships are built on trust, performance and continuous improvement. This year’s honourees distinguished themselves through their ability to deliver quality, innovation and value in a dynamic environment. Their performance strengthens our competitiveness and helps us create better outcomes for our customers.”

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