This association will deliver its first fully self-driving technology for highways and paves the way for future active safety developments.

Volvo Cars’ next generation SPA 2 modular vehicle architecture will be available as hardware-ready for autonomous drive from production start in 2022, with the Luminar LiDAR seamlessly integrated into the roof. Cars based on SPA 2 will be updated with software over-the-air and if customers decide to opt for it, the Highway Pilot feature that enables fully autonomous highway driving will be activated once it is verified to be safe for individual geographic locations and conditions.

“Autonomous drive has the potential to be one of the most lifesaving technologies in history, if introduced responsibly and safely. Providing our future cars with the vision they require to make safe decisions is an important step in that direction,” said H

enrik Green, Chief Technology Officer, Volvo Cars.

In addition to the Highway Pilot feature, Volvo Cars and Luminar are also exploring LiDAR’s role in improving future advanced driver assistance systems (ADAS), with the potential for equipping all future SPA2-based cars with a LiDAR sensor as standard.

Luminar’s technology is based on its high performance LiDAR sensors, which emit millions of pulses of laser light to accurately detect where objects are by scanning the environment in 3D, creating a temporary, real-time map without requiring internet connectivity.

LiDAR is key in creating cars that can navigate safely in autonomous mode, providing them with the reliable vision and perception that cameras and radar alone cannot provide. LiDAR is the ideal basis for safe decision-making in complex environments at high speeds.

To enable the Highway Pilot feature, Luminar’s perception technology will be combined with autonomous drive software and the cameras, radars and back-up systems for functions such as steering, braking and battery power installed on forthcoming Volvo cars equipped for self-driving. Put together, this gives Volvo users who want it access to a safe, fully self-driving feature for use on highways.

“Soon, your Volvo will be able to drive autonomously on highways when the car determines it is safe to do so. At that point, your Volvo takes responsibility for the driving and you can relax, take your eyes off the road and your hands off the wheel. Over time, updates over the air will expand the areas in which the car can drive itself. For us, a safe introduction of autonomy is a gradual introduction. Green added.

As part of the announcement, Volvo Cars and Luminar are deepening their collaboration to jointly ensure robust industrialisation and validation of Luminar’s LiDAR technology for series production. Volvo Cars has also signed an agreement to possibly increase its minority stake in Luminar.

For Silicon Valley-based Luminar, partnering with Volvo Cars represents the company’s first delivery of its technology into series production. This is a key step to achieving the economies of scale that are required to bring the technology to the wider automotive industry.

“Volvo is recognised as the pioneer of automotive safety, having driven standardisation across the industry for the most advanced life-saving technologies. The next era of safety lies within autonomous driving and once again, Volvo has taken the lead with a major industry milestone. We’ve solved the key cost, performance, and auto-grade challenges to make series production possible, and alongside Volvo are making the technology available to the world,” said Austin Russell, founder and CEO of Luminar. (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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