Speaking to this correspondent, Ganesh Mani S, Director – Production, HMIL, said, to have the first-mover advantage in the industry, carmakers are constantly looking for newer technologies and innovations. The Indian auto industry is at the cusp of a new era with updated regulation norms for emission and recall. This brings more relevance to have fool-proof quality testing processes in place. “Towards fulfilling this objective, we at Hyundai Motor India have a Quality Assurance ‘Testing, Inspection, and Certification’ (TIC) process to ensure that every car we make is 100 percent defect-free. The ‘TIC’ process has a two-pronged strategy. First, we test the condition of the respective part before assembling at the vendor’s end and next we test the condition of the assembled vehicle as per the required standards at our end.” 

It may be recalled that both its R&D Centres in Namyang, South Korea and in Hyderabad, India work in tandem to design and develop any new model. They also conduct all the region specific tests before they sign-off the car for manufacturing. “At the production stage, we conduct several standard tests including the wheel alignment, head-light aimer, roll and brake and much more. We test the ride handling capabilities of our cars first at our internal tracks in our Sriperumbudur facility which simulates 17 types of Indian road conditions, and later also conduct a Vehicle Durability Test across India. At the Certification level, we also use government authorised test agency (Global Automotive Research Centre) tracks to conduct standardized tests,” he said.

Talking on the challenges faced in testing vehicles in the assembly line, he said, the digital revolution has created a great impact offering practically unlimited possibilities for a pleasant and safe driving experience. Today the cars are smarter and more connected than ever. This means an exponential increase in the number of tests and its duration at the assembling stage. “To offer best quality cars for our customers, we need to reach the desired quality targets and address defects related issues during assembling while successfully implementing the essential TIC solutions. This will help minimise the human error, if any. Solutions such as limiting the opportunity to insert the product on the wrong fixture (through appropriate mechanical constraints) and partially automating the activation of the correct test program (based on barcode readers) using in-line systems goes a long way. Along with maximum performance, the testing equipment should also be engineered to optimize system ergonomics with respect to operator comfort. This coupled with the precepts of lean production which will allow more flexibility in the mixing of various models. It is also necessary to guarantee high test results throughout to comply with the increasing production cycle-times. So, these testing machines should have the basic data analytics tool with summarized output screen, which could be used as an input for improving the process and design. This idea can also be extended to monitor the performance of the testing machine as well to proactively do the maintenance activities. Going forward, we will work towards minimising human intervention as much as possible and improve the process to do more self-learning and proactively suggest feedback & countermeasures,” he said.

Be it for the domestic or export markets, any OEM has to address three aspects to make cars with top-most quality. Firstly, at the design stage it is necessary to achieve the best performance and quality for the vehicle at optimal cost while keeping other factors in check. Hyundai ensures that all the learnings from previous models are implied in upcoming models. Secondly, during production it ensures that the vehicle meets all the required country-specific test standards and feature options for all its variants. Finally it understands the customer’s pulse and needs.    

“At HMI we transform metal into excellence with hand-crafted engineering and at 100 percent precision. To make the perfect cars we follow a 3-stage systematic tightening confirmation process which captures over 200,000 quality data points related to tightening, every day. We have linked this information with ‘Sign-off Gate’ to prevent the ‘not ok’ car roll out from the final assembly line. Our vehicle final inspection method is digitally enabled for assembled part specification/ type verification; we use a Hyundai Integrated Dialogistic System which is loaded with pre-set information on quality confirmations for 350+ variants. Such high degree of customization helps us to meet the growing customer requirement and enables desired results in the manufacturing process,” he said.

Beyond BS-VI

The move to make BS-VI compliant vehicles is not just important for cleaner air but it will also enable carmakers and Government agencies to record data on Real Driving Emissions (RDE). After the roll-out of BS-VI complaint vehicles there will be enough captured data available with the concerned authorities and regulators to be able to reduce the gap between type-approval vehicle emissions results and the actual ones on roads. Hyundai has global experience in the area of RDE vehicle development and this is a huge technical advantage to help develop vehicles for the Indian market. “We have done some amount of testing specific to the Indian road conditions. Before the Government’s regulations are set in motion, we too will be prepared to take up this challenge by upgrading our technical and analytical capabilities in all the required areas,” he said.

Nowadays, all cars come loaded with different kinds of infotainment, safety and communication systems. For instance, the recently launched Creta has 50 plus India-specific connected features which is 30 percent more than any other cars manufactured by the company. All these are absolutely important to ensure all these electronic devices work smoothly for the customer to enjoy a great drive. HMI has a multi-layered assurance process designed and developed by its in-house teams with specific performance indicators. ‘Hyundai Automatic Diagnostic System’ is another tool it uses to inspect the proper functioning of over 60 checkpoints in the electrical system and connected car features in all its cars.

Besides, it also has an integrated in-line testing facility installed in the assembly process line to check and approve the performance of all electronic systems fitted in all the cars at the sign-off gate. Also it ensures that the same​​ level of standards are maintained at the vendors end too. This makes the quality assurance process more robust & mistake proof, Ganesh Mani added.  (MT)

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Luxury carmaker Mercedes-Benz India has launched the EQS 580 4MATIC 'Celebration Edition’, an upgraded version of its flagship EQS 580 4MATIC sedan.

This special edition commemorates the brand’s growing success in the battery electric vehicle (BEV) segment, driven by high-end models and celebrates the EQS range’s position as a benchmark in luxury BEVs. The EQS boasts cutting-edge technology, including the ‘MBUX Hyperscreen’, opulent interiors and an industry-leading range for electric vehicles in India. The ‘Celebration Edition’ enhances rear-seat luxury, offering best-in-class comfort, space and an elevated experience for discerning customers.

Simultaneously, Mercedes-Benz inaugurated the ‘Atelier Experience’ at Sundaram Motors in Adyar, Chennai, expanding its premium retail network across key metros like New Delhi, Mumbai and Hyderabad. This facility underscores the brand’s commitment to bespoke luxury, featuring personalised consultations and modern retail concepts. Strategically located in an upscale neighbourhood with strong luxury customer presence, the 3,800 sq. ft. showroom spans a 7,500 sq. ft. plot, offering flexible displays for sub-brands like Maybach, AMG and G-Class. The design allows effortless brand element transitions, maximizing premium showcase impact.

Aligned with its ‘go to customer’ strategy, Mercedes-Benz is expanding into emerging mini-metros, planning 30 new or upgraded luxury touchpoints in 2025, with 19 set to launch in the next five months. This initiative reinforces the brand’s focus on accessibility and elite retail experiences.

Santosh Iyer, Managing Director & CEO, Mercedes-Benz India, said, "We are excited to launch the EQS 580 'Celebration Edition' alongside our strategic network expansion in Chennai. This dual announcement exemplifies Mercedes-Benz's deep commitment to uphold both product excellence and customer experience. The EQS 'Celebration Edition' signifies growing customer interest in our top-end BEVs, as we continue to outpace the market growth, regularly upgrading our luxury BEV portfolio. Our BEV growth is strongly driven by demand for top-end BEVs comprising EQS sedan and SUV, EQS Maybach SUV and the G 580 with EQ Technology. Similarly, qualitative network expansion demonstrates our customer commitment beyond luxury products, introducing boutique luxury experiences in established metropolises like Chennai.

“After the highly exclusive Maybach Lounge in Hyderabad, the G-Lounge in New Delhi, we are now introducing the bespoke ‘Atelier Experience’ in Mumbai and in Chennai, where discerning customers can configure their cars with MANUFAKTUR range of customization options. Hyper-personalisation is an emerging trend at the top-end luxury segment, and with exclusive Maybach Kit and G-Class Kit comprising physical material samples combined with state-of-art online configurator, customers can have a physi-digital experience, while configuring their personalised top-end Mercedes-Benz car.”

Sharath Vijayaraghavan, Executive Director, Sundaram Motors, said, “We are extremely proud of our association with Mercedes-Benz known for its innovation, Leadership & Strong Legacy. With both brands having vintage over 100 years, the shared values of both the companies have paved the way for such formidable partnership of 25 years with several more years to come. Our eleven facilities are designed for customer convenience, and our eleven Sundaram Signature Service offerings provide flexible support to meet any additional customer requirements.”

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Vietnamese automotive brand VinFast has announced its collaboration with Global Assure to strengthen its customer service network across India. The automaker aims to strengthen its aftersales service network before formally introducing its products in the Indian market.

As part of the understanding, Global Assure will oversee the seamless delivery of essential customer care services, including a dedicated 24x7 call centre, nationwide Roadside Assistance (RSA), Mobile charging solutions and on-demand Mobile service operations. These services will be accessible to VinFast customers across the country, ensuring quick, reliable, and convenient support, anytime and anywhere.

Pham Sanh Chau, CEO – Asia, VinFast, said, “As VinFast is gearing up to launch its premium electric SUVs – the VF 7 and VF 6 in India market, this partnership underlines the brand’s commitment to ensure prompt, dependable and customer-focused support across the country. Global Assure’s strong capabilities and nationwide reach are well aligned with our commitment to quality, convenience and care. Together, we aim to establish a holistic and reliable electric mobility ecosystem in India that extends beyond our vehicles to offer true peace of mind for our customers.”

Manish Vij, Co-founder & CEO, Global Assure, said, “We are excited to be the trusted partner of VinFast’s customer support in India. With Global Assure’s extensive expertise in deep understanding of Indian customer needs and pan-India presence, VinFast customers can expect efficient response times and high-quality service making every journey smoother, safer, and more reassuring for VinFast owners.”

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Maruti Suzuki India (MSIL), the country’s largest passenger vehicle maker, has launched the 2025 Grand Vitara S-CNG starting at INR 1.34 million. The 2025 Grand Vitara S-CNG is powered by the next-gen K-series 1.5-litre, Dual Jet, Dual VVT engine, offering a fuel-efficiency of 26.6 km per kg. The Grand Vitara is now available with a wide range of environment-friendly powertrain technologies including S-CNG, Strong Hybrid and Allgrip Select 4x4.

Partho Banerjee, Senior Executive Officer, Marketing and Sales, Maruti Suzuki India, said, “The new 2025 Grand Vitara S-CNG offers a range of new convenience & safety alongside the introduction of 6 airbags as standard. Powered by our next-gen K-series 1.5-litre Dual Jet Dual VVT engine, it delivers remarkable fuel-efficiency, without compromising on its exhilarating SUV drive experience. We are confident that the new Grand Vitara S-CNG will continue to win the hearts of customers with its robust safety and commendable efficiency.”

The company has equipped the new Grand Vitara S-CNG with comprehensive safety for all occupants with 6 airbags offered as standard. This is further complemented by a range of safety features including Electronic Stability Program (ESP) with Hill Hold Assist, Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) with Electronic Brakeforce Distribution (EBD), Front and Rear Disc Brakes, ISOFIX Child seat restraint system and more.

In terms of features, the Grand Vitara S-CNG comes with Auto Purify with PM 2.5 Display, 22.86cm (9-inch) SmartPlay Pro+ Entertainment System with Wireless Connectivity and Steering Mounted Audio Controls, Premium Sound System by Clarion~, Tyre Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS), Rear View Camera, Wireless Charging Dock, Ventilated Front Seats, Automatic Climate Control, Rear AC Vents, Reclining Rear Seats with 60:40 split, Keyless Entry With Engine Push Start/Stop Button, Auto-Folding ORVMs, Suzuki Connect and more.

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Stellantis-owned French auto brand Citroen India has unveiled the C3 Limited Sport Edition, a new variant of its popular hatchback with a range of exclusive features.

The C3 Sport Edition distinguishes itself with bold 'Sport' decals, ambient cabin lighting and sporty pedals. The interior features custom sport-themed seat covers, matching carpet mats and seatbelt cushions to complement its athletic identity. Additionally, a new Garnet Red body colour has been introduced for the first time in the C3 lineup. Buyers also have the option to add a wireless charger and a dash cam.

Kumar Priyesh, Business Head & Director – Automotive Brands, Stellantis India, said, "The Citroen C3 has always stood out with its unique styling and plush ride quality fused with performance, making it a compelling choice in the hatchback segment. The C3 Sport Edition brings more energy, tech and thrill to a car already known for its bold design and ride quality. With the addition of Garnet Red and sporty enhancements, caters to a distinct generation of buyers who value individuality, class-leading performance, unmatched comfort and everyday practicality – reinforcing to Citroën’s promise of accessible innovation and design-led appeal."

Beyond its visual enhancements, the C3 Limited Sport Edition retains the C3's performance capabilities. It is powered by a 1.2L Turbo PureTech engine that delivers 110 PS and 205 Nm of torque, enabling a 0-100 kmph sprint in just 10 seconds. The vehicle also offers a 6-speed torque converter automatic transmission.

The Citroen C3 Limited Sport Edition is now available at all Citroen dealerships across India. It carries a premium of INR 21,000 over the standard editions, with the optional Tech Kit (Dashcam and Wireless Charger) available for an additional INR 15,000.

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