Mahindra Maintains Optimistic Outlook For FY2026, New Greenfield Facility By FY2028

Mahindra Auto

Mumbai-headquartered automotive major Mahindra & Mahindra has announced its financial results for FY2025 with revenue of INR 1,592 billion, up 14 percent YoY and a net profit of INR 129 billion, up 20 percent YoY.

The robust financial performance was underpinned by strong automotive sales across key segments. Mahindra stated it continue to top the SUV sales with a revenue market share of 22.5 percent. Furthermore, the OEM held the top spot in the Light Commercial Vehicle (LCV) segment under 3.5 tonnes, commanding a market share of 51.9 percent. The Tractor division also achieved its highest ever full-year market share at 43.3 percent.

Going forward, the company continues to maintain an optimistic outlook for SUV and EV sales. The company has announced that it will unveil a new platform 'Vision' on 15 August 2025, which will further expand its product portfolio.

Furthermore, Mahindra is set to increase its manufacturing capacity for XUV 3X0 and Thar Roxx by 3,000 units, a new platform capacity in Chakan for 120,000 units per annum and a new greenfield facility by FY2028, which will primarily focus on the passenger vehicle segment. The company is also looking at different states and the kind of incentives it gets, before finalising the location.  

“Our current capacity utilisation on the SUV side is almost over 90 percent with Scorpio very close to capacity, Thar Roxx and 3X0 fully on capacity and Bolero is lesser in capacity,” said Rajesh Jejurikar, Executive Director & CEO – Auto and Farm Sector, Mahindra & Mahindra.

Furthermore, the company’s born electric platform, which has spawned the BE 6 and XEV 9e has recently crossed the 6,300 sales mark. At present, the EVs have around 40,000 bookings with an average waiting time of 4-5 months.

Jejurikar explained that an EV customer usually sees around 2 hours of discussion time at the dealership, which is significantly higher than that of an ICE-vehicle customer.

“There's also work to be done by way of enabling charging infrastructure to be facilitated, set up, which means working with their societies or their office complexes wherever they want the charger and all of that needs to be coordinated well and then there's an installation process to be done at home. We have seen that this process is very important to customers to make sure that the experience is very seamless. As we think about ramping up, this is an added thing over and above the input quality which of course is a very important parameter because there is a lot of high tech and so we want to be very calibrated in the way we ramp up. As we have said earlier, that even though we have capacity, we are not operationalising all of that,” added Jejurikar.

A significant highlight was the positive performance of Mahindra's EV division. The company reported being EBITDA positive in the first quarter of the fiscal year within its EV segment, even without considering certain incentives (PLI). This achievement was attributed to a favourable variant mix. While celebrating this milestone, the company cautioned that achieving EBIT margin positivity in the EV sector is anticipated to take several quarters, potentially extending to a year or 18 months. This timeline reflects the ongoing investments required to scale up their EV operations, for which incentives are intended to provide support. The company anticipates that significant EBITDA positivity in the EV segment will become more pronounced as production volume increases.

On the other hand, responding to slowdown in the passenger vehicle sales, Jejurikar stated, “I think there are several enablers which will start kicking in – government spending, infrastructure spending, all of that which will lead to demand picking up. The smaller segments will start gaining out of the income tax benefit that will start kicking in from the front. We think that will be an enabler as well as interest rates come down over time, I think that will be another positive enabler. I do think that over the next few months, the sentiment will start kicking up. But it's a world with a lot of uncertainty at the moment. Multiple things are happening around the world so we don't see any uncertainty that comes out of that.  But, overall I think many macroeconomic factors are positive.”

Dr Anish Shah, Managing Director, Mahindra & Mahindra, added, “I just want to reflect on the numbers – both revenue growth and bank growth – where the stress isn't particularly visible. Yes, there is some level of commercial urban stress, but from our product standpoint, we haven't seen significant impact. Even when we look across other businesses, overall, the picture remains positive. The recent actions around liquidity and interest rates should start to drive greater demand and improved functionality. So, on balance, I’d say we aren’t seeing substantial urban stress at this point – perhaps a slight slowdown or a temporary blip, but nothing major. I believe that's something we’ll bounce back from.”

Looking beyond the domestic market, Mahindra expressed considerable optimism regarding its expansion in North America. The launch of the OJA tractor series in the North American market is reported to be gaining significant traction. Specifically, in the less than 110 horsepower tractor segment, where Mahindra has a strong presence, their retail market share has reportedly surged from 3 percent to 10 percent over the past four months. This sub-110 horsepower category constitutes a substantial 40 percent of the total market volume. This significant growth in their key segment underscores the strategic importance of the OTA series and justifies the investments made in its creation.

Responding to a question regarding potential entry into the insurance market, a Dr Shah stated that this has been under consideration for several years. While acknowledging the complementary nature of their existing business and the large market size, he indicated that any entry would be contingent on identifying a suitable approach that ensures successful returns. But no immediate plans for entering the insurance sector were announced.

Going forward, Mahindra is said to be open to new partnerships and acquisitions.

New Renault Duster TCe Turbo 160 Achieves 18.45 Kmpl ARAI-Certified Mileage

New Renault Duster TCe Turbo 160 Achieves 18.45 Kmpl ARAI-Certified Mileage

Renault India has officially released the ARAI-certified fuel efficiency figures for the newly launched Duster, which is now powered by the Turbo TCe 160 engine. This latest iteration of the SUV delivers a fuel economy rating of 18.45 kmpl when paired with the DCT automatic gearbox, while the version equipped with the six-speed manual transmission achieves a rating of 17.75 kmpl.

Developed specifically to suit Indian driving conditions, the vehicle combines robust performance with what Renault describes as best-in-class ride and handling characteristics. At the heart of the Duster is a turbo-petrol unit that generates 163 PS of power along with 280 Nm of torque, securing its position as the most powerful engine in its category.

Through intelligent engineering and a carefully optimised powertrain, Renault has managed to create a compelling balance that merges high output with segment-leading fuel efficiency, ensuring drivers do not have to compromise between spirited performance and economical running.

Dr V Vikraman, Chief of Renault Engineering, Renault Group India, said, “The ARAI-certified figures highlight the strength of our technology and our commitment to delivering superior all-round value. New Renault Duster’s Turbo 160 engine integrates advanced solutions such as low-friction coatings and high-pressure fuel injection to optimise combustion and efficiency. Paired with Renault’s latest DCT automatic transmission, which ensures fast and seamless gear shifts, the powertrain delivers an excellent balance of performance and fuel efficiency while remaining strong and responsive on the road.”

Bradley Arnold

South Korean automotive major Hyundai Motor Company has named Bradley J. Arnold as Chief Designer and Head of Hyundai Design North America (HDNA) in Irvine, California.

He will oversee vehicle and concept design for the North American market, focusing on the company’s design-led strategy.

Arnold rejoined Hyundai in 2016 and has held various leadership roles within the California studio. Since 2021, he led the exterior design team, contributing to the 2023 Hyundai Palisade facelift and the 2022 Hyundai Santa Cruz. His previous experience includes:

  • Hyundai (2008–2011): Contributions to the Hyundai Genesis Coupe exterior and Hyundai Curb Concept interior.
  • General Motors Design (2011–2016): Work on the Cadillac Elmiraj Concept, Chevrolet Tru 140S, and mobility concepts.
  • Academic: Graduate of and former instructor at the ArtCenter College of Design.

In 2025, Arnold served as interim design head at HDNA, where he managed the development of production and concept vehicles. He directed the global XRT off-road strategy within 'The Sandbox,' a design hub at the California studio.

Under his guidance, this facility has produced the 2026 Palisade XRT PRO, the CRATER Concept, and upcoming XRT models scheduled for production.

Luc Donckerwolke, Executive Vice-President and Chief Creative Officer, Hyundai Motor Group, said, “Design is the clearest expression of our ambition as a brand. Brad brings clarity, courage, and a strong connection to North American customers. His leadership will be instrumental as Hyundai Design North America shapes vehicles that are both emotionally engaging and globally relevant.”

SangYup Lee, Executive Vice-President and Head of Hyundai and Genesis Global Design, commented, “With more than 18 years of experience working with highly respected global automotive brands, Brad brings an exceptional level of creative leadership and vision. We are excited to have him lead Hyundai Design North America and build on the strong momentum of our vehicle design direction.”

Matt Benns Joins Volvo Car UK Executive Team As Commercial Operations Director

Matt Benns Joins Volvo Car UK Executive Team As Commercial Operations Director

Volvo Car UK has appointed Matt Benns as its new Commercial Operations Director, effective 30 March 2026. Reporting to Managing Director Nicole Melillo Shaw, he will join the UK Executive Management Team. In this capacity, Benns assumes responsibility for New, Used and Fleet car sales, alongside the Direct-to-Consumer offering, Network Development and Aftersales.

Benns brings a diverse automotive background defined by delivering transformation across OEM brands, retail networks and software ecosystems. He joins from his role as CEO of ELLA Digital, with prior global positions at Auto.Works, Keyloop, Connect Auto, Volkswagen Group UK and Mazda UK. His extensive experience will be instrumental in driving commercial performance across Volvo Car UK’s operations.

Nicole Melillo Shaw, Managing Director, Volvo Car UK, said, “Matt has a proven track-record and deep industry expertise, coupled with digital and direct-to-consumer experience, which make him a fantastic addition to our team in the UK. As we continue to accelerate our growth, and strengthen our position in the market, his vision and energy will play a key role in shaping our future success and I am looking forward to working together.”

Benns said, “Volvo Cars has long stood for innovation, safety and progressive thinking, so it’s a privilege to join the business at such a pivotal time with the upcoming launch of the Volvo EX60. I’m looking forward to working with the talented teams across the organisation and our retail partners to build on the brand’s strong foundations and unlock new opportunities for growth.”

Bentley Motors Reports EUR 216 Million Profit For 2025, Marks 7th Consecutive Year of Profitability

Bentley Continental GT

Volkswagen-owned luxury brand Bentley Motors has recorded its seventh consecutive year of profitability, with a reported operating profit of EUR 216 million for 2025. The results reflect an operating return on sales of 8.3 percent, achieved despite global market contraction and one-off accounting charges.

The company reported revenue of EUR 2.6 billion, a flat degrowth of one percent compared to the previous year. This resilience was attributed to disciplined pricing and a shift toward higher-margin derivatives.

Key financial factors included:

  • Model Mix: Increased demand for Mulliner bespoke personalisation and Speed derivatives supported average revenue per vehicle.
  • Volume: Customer deliveries declined by 5 percent, driven primarily by market conditions in China.
  • External Impacts: Profitability was affected by the discontinuation of a Volkswagen Group D-segment platform, U.S. tariffs and foreign exchange fluctuations.

The Bentayga remains the brand’s best-selling model, bolstered by the market entry of the Bentayga Speed in late 2025. The year also saw the introduction of the fourth-generation Continental GT and Flying Spur, both featuring a new V8 hybrid powertrain.

Bentley is currently self-funding a transformation of its Pyms Lane site in Crewe to prepare for its first Battery-Powered Electric Vehicle (BEV). Construction is nearing completion on the A1 building, which will house the future BEV assembly line, and a new paint shop is scheduled to open later this year.

To improve long-term competitiveness, Bentley has announced a consultation programme that may result in the removal of 275 positions. These adjustments affect management, agency, and non-manufacturing roles as the business prepares for its next phase of electrification.

Dr Frank-Steffen Walliser, Chairman and CEO, Bentley Motors, said, “2025 was a pivotal year for Bentley as we continue our preparation of the next generation of Bentleys including our upcoming all-electric model. Our high-performance Continental GT and Flying Spur have set new benchmarks for desirability, while the Bentayga remains our best-selling model with the new Speed derivative entering key markets. The all-new Bentley Supersports opened a new chapter for Bentley and underlines our sportiness and driver orientation. We are investing at unprecedented levels in the Pyms Lane site, including the Design Centre, opened in July last year, the near completion of the A1 building for BEV production, and the upcoming opening of the new Paint Shop later this year. At the same time, we are making some difficult decisions to ensure the long-term competitiveness of the business, including an organisational adjustment potentially impacting approximately 275 positions. I want to express my sincere appreciation to those affected - we are committed to supporting each individual with care, guidance and assistance throughout this transition. These actions, alongside our investments and Beyond100+ strategy, ensure Bentley remains financially resilient, strategically focused and well-positioned for the next generation of luxury vehicles.”

Axel Dewitz, Board Member for Finance and IT, Betley Motors, commented, "Bentley has delivered a seventh consecutive year of profitability, demonstrating strong underlying financial performance despite a challenging macro environment. While reported results reflect a non-recurring accounting impact and external trade effects, the underlying business remains resilient. Revenue quality is supported by disciplined pricing and a rich model mix, with Mulliner bespoke demand continuing to grow. These results give us confidence that Bentley’s financial foundation is solid, whilst highlighting the need to continue to invest in our future product portfolio and site transformation.”