By T Murrali

MG Motors, owned by SAIC (formerly Shanghai Auto Industrial Corporation), has launched its pure Electric Vehicle (EV) MG ZS in the international market to recreate a ‘new hot spot’ for its global strategy. This strategy is based on the success of its first new energy vehicle MG 6 that has won good market feedback and reputation. As part of its plan to target those who would like to have all the benefits of a zero emission vehicle without compromising on style MG Motors India has unveiled MG ZS EV, its global SUV.

Under the guidance of SAIC Group’s new four-fold strategies of ‘electrification, intelligent networking, sharing, and internationalization,’ MG has been leading the trend in the field of fuel vehicles, and its new energy vehicles to attract young people. Equipped with the world-class ‘Net Green’ power and SAIC’s leading system of electric drive, battery, and electric control, MG ZS pure electric vehicle boasts of a constant velocity range of up to 428km. 

Moreover, the latest generation of ‘intelligent interconnection’ system and the exclusive colour of new energy will provide a better and trendier choice for the global market where the demand for pure electric vehicles is increasing. The new EV uses MG’s new kansei (emotional) design to make its shape more modern; it has also introduced the exclusive colour of new energy, making it more attractive. The vehicle is equipped with a panoramic sunroof, luggage rack and other configurations.

Not compromising on aesthetics the vehicle has an appreciable build quality that can thrill with its performance and is powered by i-Smart. Assembled at its plant in Halol, Gujarat, the new electric SUV is 4,314 mm long, 1,809 mm wide and stands 1,620 mm tall while the wheelbase is 2,579 mm. It is touted to be the first pure electric internet SUV with a clean, efficient and fast powertrain.

“As an enabler and catalyst for India’s EV revolution, MG Motor India is creating a strong, end-to-end electric vehicle ecosystem in association with leading players in the sustainable energy domain. A truly global and best-in-class EV SUV, the ZS EV has already registered significant success in more than 10 international markets such as the United Kingdom, Europe, Australia, and Southeast Asia. It has also been extensively tested for India-specific requirements. We hope that it will recreate its success in India, thanks to the strong EV ecosystem that we are putting in place. We will evaluate opportunities to further expand this ecosystem to more markets across India, based on customer response,” Rajeev Chaba, President and Managing Director, MG Motor India, said.

The Collaborators

Understanding the importance of leveraging expertise of global majors to offer cost competitive solution to customers, MG Motors has collaborated with world leaders such as CATL, UAES, Bosch, Infineon, Exicom, Umicore and Fortum.  

The China-based battery and technology company CATL, specializes in the manufacture of lithium-ion batteries for EVs, energy storage systems, and battery management systems. UAES is the power electronics solutions provider, and Bosch and Infineon offer software and other support. Exicom helps in second-life use of batteries, and Umicore ensures safe and sustainable recycling of end-of-life batteries.

The collaboration with Fortum India is to set up a 50 kW DC fast charging infrastructure. It has installed such fast public charging stations for EVs across MG’s showrooms in Delhi NCR, Hyderabad, Mumbai, Bengaluru and Ahmedabad. Over the next 5 years Fortum plans to have one charging facility every 5 km in major metro cities and every 25 km on the highways.

Exterior And Interior

Inspired by the majestic London Eye, true to its British genes, the headlamps give the MG ZS EV a powerful persona, the kind which makes the EV stand out in the crowd. It complements the aesthetics of the grille, which connotes the magnetic fields between celestial bodies, and brings out the glam quotient. The deep concave grille is supplemented with enough chrome to get the bling on.

The tail lights depict the plough, also called the big dipper. They are inspired by the seven brightest stars of the constellation, Ursa Major, which is the largest northern constellation and third largest constellation in the sky. The side design depicts the phantom that flies through the corners. The panoramic sky roof covers 90 percent of the roof bringing in natural light. It’s like having the sky as a companion on every journey.

In the interior, the ZS comes with an updated version of the Hector’s infotainment system dubbed, iSmart EV 2.0. It has an embedded SIM card for internet connectivity and also has the ability to connect to an external home Wi-Fi network or mobile hotspot. The iSmart EV 2.0 features real-time maps with charging station locator from TomTom, music from Gaana app and weather by Accuweather. The updated system also gets a new graphic interface and improved hardware over the Hector’s iSmart system. 

The system offers over 60 connected car features including Range alerts, Battery status, Eco-friendly updates, Remote vehicle control (for AC on/off, door lock/unlock, light flashing and honking) E-Call (self-initiated emergency call sends a message and location to the 24/7 pulse hub if airbags are deployed), I-Call (get a call from the MG pulse hub for general assistance or road side assistance at the touch of the i-Call button), Geofencing, Navigation, Smart Drive (driver analytics-harsh braking, running idle, routes taken etc. to improve driving skills) and Security Alert (get alerts on the app in case of abnormal door opening, over speed etc.)

The vehicle has a CO2 saver feature which displays the amount of carbon-dioxide the owners save in real-time. MG ZS air-conditioning unit comes fitted with particulate matter 2.5 air filters to provide fresh and healthy air inside the cabin, thus maintaining healthy Indoor Air Quality (IAQ). It can bring bad air quality level of up to 300 AQI down to regular levels in just 35 minutes.

The vehicle is equipped with 3D surround effect, which enhances the driving experience with audible navigation assistance and provides close-to-ear experience.  

The MG ZS EV gets an 8.0-inch touchscreen infotainment system with Apple Carplay and Android Auto. It is equipped with a visually delightful screen that gives all the information at a single glance and allows the driver to manage complete vehicle settings with just a touch. MG ZS can get new software over the air.

Safety

As safety is key, the MG ZS comes with European Standards such as European E-MARK, European REACH (environmental standards in the car) and European E-NCAP (safety standard design). In terms of safety the vehicle has 6 airbags, which include dual front airbags, front-seat side-impact airbags, and side-curtain airbags that work together with the seatbelts. It is adequately armoured to save the lives of the occupants.

The EV has auto headlamps to mitigate heavy overcast skies or an enclosure, such as a parking garage. In the case of cruise control, it doesn’t let the driver lose control over the speed. Instead it lets the driver to set a speed limit, and it will handle the throttle accordingly.

The SUV is equipped with an electric parking brake to ensure it is held safely when brakes are suddenly pressed. The electronic gear shift knob gives a complete sense of control over gear shifts. The reverse parking-assist system helps the driver to sense when objects are in the vehicle’s blind spot, thus help prevent accidents which may be caused due to difficulty in reverse parking. The hill descent control system helps the user enjoy the mountains as much as the highways. It prevents rollback on a slope when the brake is released and switched to the accelerator pedal. Besides, it had TPMS to get real-time information about the tyre pressure through a pictogram display. Heated OVRM is part of the standard equipment to clear the fog and ice on the side view mirror, thereby ensuring visibility at all times.

The Battery

The ultra-high density 44.5 kWh battery makes the vehicle to zip 0-100 kmph in 8.5 seconds. It helps deliver maximum power of 142.7 PS, maximum torque of 353 Nm. The liquid-cooled NMC (Nickel Manganese Cobalt) battery from CATL, gives the car a travel range of 340 km on a full charge. It comes with a kinetic energy reverse system, which stores the extra generated power for later use.

The battery of ZS complies with IP67 and UL 2580 - standards for safety that cover waterproof, dustproof, collision monitoring, electromagnetic shielding, insulation monitoring, high voltage interlock, overload protection, short circuit, intrusion, smoke, soaks, fire and fall.

Charging System

The MG ZS EV is equipped with CCS Type-2 European standard connector and is able to rapid charge from public chargers and also comes equipped with an AC slow charger. The lithium-ion battery can be charged through four options. AC Fast Charger that is provided and installed by MG Motor India at home or office, free of cost. With this 80 percent of charging is done in 6-8 hours. The portable charger that comes with every car can be plugged into any 15A socket. The batteries can be charged up to 80 percent n 16-18 hours. DC superfast chargers that are available at MG dealerships 24x7 can charge the batteries up to 80 percent within 50 minutes. Besides, the vehicle maker is also planning to set up AC Fast Chargers at MG dealerships along key routes in satellite cities. In an emergency, road side assistance for mobile charging support is offered 24x7. The MG logo in the vehicle glows to indicate that the SUV is getting charged. Glowing stops, once the charging is complete.

MG ZS EV comes with three driving modes: Sport, for accelerated driving and a thrilling drive experience; Normal, for balanced range and driving performance; and Eco, for efficient driving to maximize range. (MT)

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Mercedes-Benz India has fortified the legendary G-Class lineage with the launch of the all-new G 450d, a vehicle distinguished by the most potent diesel engine in the brand's portfolio. This introduction completes a comprehensive powertrain strategy for the iconic SUV in India, now encompassing a diesel, a petrol, and a fully electric model. The G 450d is powered by an advanced 3.0-litre inline six-cylinder diesel engine, augmented by a 48-volt electrical system and an Integrated Starter Generator (ISG). This sophisticated powertrain generates 270 kW and a formidable 750 Nm of torque, propelling the substantial SUV from 0 to 100 km/h in a mere 5.8 seconds, with a top speed of 210 kmph.

The model's identity remains deeply rooted in its unparalleled off-road capability, honed over 45 years. Its proven ladder-frame construction, three 100 percent mechanical differential locks and a suspension system combining a double-wishbone independent front setup with a rigid rear axle form the bedrock of its rugged character. Key off-road metrics include a maximum 100 percent gradeability, a fording depth of 70 cm and approach, departure and breakover angles of 31, 30 and 26 degrees respectively. The standard adaptive adjustable damping and the DYNAMIC SELECT system – which includes three dedicated off-road driving programmes – allow drivers to effortlessly tailor the vehicle's character for any terrain. A redesigned Offroad Cockpit in the digital displays provides vital information like steering angle and tyre pressure, while the ‘Transparent Hood’ function offers a virtual view of the terrain ahead.

Visually, the G 450d retains the timeless, commanding silhouette of the G-Class while incorporating subtle yet distinct updates. A new radiator grille with four horizontal louvres and a redesigned front bumper with integrated vertical louvers define the front aspect. The vehicle rides on standard 20-inch AMG alloy wheels, reinforcing its powerful stance.

Inside, the cabin merges traditional robustness with state-of-the-art technology and luxury. The dashboard is dominated by two 12.3-inch screens for the driver and multimedia, housing the latest MBUX NTG7 infotainment system. This system features augmented reality navigation, which superimposes directional cues onto a live video feed, along with wireless smartphone integration. The exclusive MANUFAKTUR programme offers near-limitless personalisation, from unique paint colours to bespoke interior trims, spare wheel rings and decorative stitching. The AMG line interior theme, enhanced by Nappa leather, ambient lighting and an available Burmester 3D surround sound system with Dolby Atmos, creates an exceptionally luxurious environment. Comprehensive noise insulation and acoustic glass ensure exceptional cabin serenity, while a suite of advanced safety features, including Active Brake Assist and a 360-degree camera, provides confidence on every journey.

To celebrate the G-Class heritage, Mercedes-Benz India will soon initiate the exclusive ‘G-Tribe Escapade,’ a curated driving expedition for select customers. This journey will traverse from India to the scenic landscapes of Thimphu, Punakha and Paro, offering a firsthand experience of the vehicle's capabilities.

Santosh Iyer, Managing Director and CEO, Mercedes-Benz India, said, "The new G 450d underlines our commitment to offer diesel, petrol and electric powertrain for the first time in India to the G-Class, the longest running nameplate in the automotive industry. The G 450d featuring Mercedes-Benz’s powerful and efficient diesel engine, combines performance with efficiency, reiterating the sustained customer demand for a diesel powertrain in the G-Class. The G 450d ensures Mercedes-Benz now has a ‘G-Class’ for every customer requirement in India, further elevating practicality along with desirability and cult status of this iconic SUV."

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VinFast, one of the youngest automotive companies, has announced that it has become the first car brand in Vietnam to pass 100,000 vehicle sales within the first three quarters of a single year. The milestone follows 11 consecutive months as the nation’s top-selling carmaker.

In September 2025, VinFast delivered 13,914 electric vehicles, bringing the total for the first nine months of the year to 103,884 units.

• The VF 3 recorded 31,386 units sold in the first nine months, with 2,682 units sold in September.
• The VF 5 followed with 30,956 units sold over the same period, including 3,847 units in September. Its fleet variant, the Herio Green, sold 8,604 cumulative units.
• The VF 6 reached 14,425 units since the start of the year, with 1,933 delivered in September.
• The VF 7 recorded 5,877 cumulative sales over nine months, with 778 units sold last month.
• The Limo Green, a seven-seater MPV, sold 2,120 vehicles in September.

With three months of Q4 remaining and production capacity increased at its Hai Phong and Ha Tinh manufacturing complexes, VinFast expects to set more records by end-2025.

Duong Thi Thu Trang, Global Deputy CEO of Sales and Marketing, VinFast, said, “Behind the figure of more than 100,000 vehicles are millions of acts of trust and support from our customers. We are deeply grateful for their confidence and remain committed to delivering ever greater value, thereby accelerating Vietnam’s green transition.”

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German luxury carmaker Audi has opened two new facilities in Dehradun, Uttarakhand. The brand has opened an Audi Approved: plus pre-owned car showroom and a service workshop. Both facilities were established in partnership with existing dealer Adventure Auto Car India. The new facilities mark the brand’s first presence in Uttarakhand.

Every vehicle sold under the Audi Approved: plus programme undergoes mechanical, bodywork, interior, and electrical checks at over 300 multi-point checks, along with a full on-road test. The programme offers 24x7 Roadside Assistance and a vehicle history before purchase. Customers can also use financing and insurance benefits through the programme.

The service facility features periodic maintenance and repair capabilities. It is staffed by Audi-trained technicians and uses approved tools and diagnostic technologies.

Balbir Singh Dhillon, Head of Audi India, said, “The inauguration of two new facilities in Dehradun – our 27th Audi Approved: plus pre-owned car showroom and a new service workshop – marks a significant milestone as we make our debut in Uttarakhand. Over the past five years, we have experienced strong growth in the pre-owned luxury segment, with our Audi Approved: plus network expanding from 7 to 27 facilities across the country. This growth underscores our commitment to making Audi ownership more accessible while upholding the highest standards of quality and customer service. The Audi Approved: plus business has emerged as a key growth driver for our strategy, and with its strategic location, Dehradun will serve as a vital gateway to the growing luxury car market in the region. The addition of the new service facility not only enhances convenience for our customers but also reinforces our focus on staying closely connected with them.”

Aditya Agarwalla, Dealer Principal, Audi Approved: plus Dehradun, said, “We are excited to bring Audi's prestigious pre-owned car experience to Uttarakhand for the first time. The region has shown tremendous growth potential in the luxury segment and we are committed to setting new benchmarks in customer satisfaction and service excellence. Our team is dedicated to providing personalised service that matches Audi's global standards while understanding the unique preferences of customers in this region. With the launch of the new service facility, we are pleased to deepen our association with Audi India and are committed to serving our customers with the highest standards of care.”

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BMW Group India is reporting record-breaking sales for the first three quarters of 2025 (calendar year), marking its strongest performance in the market to date. Between January and September, the company delivered 11,978 cars and 3,976 motorcycles. The BMW brand itself contributed 11,510 car sales, while MINI accounted for 468 units. This impressive growth trajectory was particularly strong in the third quarter, which saw a 21 percent year-on-year sales increase and set a new record for both the quarter and the month of September, fuelled by festive demand and favourable market conditions post GST 2.0.

A significant driver of this success is the company's electric vehicle portfolio, which solidifies its position as the country's leading luxury EV brand. Sales of electric BMW and MINI models surged by an astounding 246 percent, with 2,509 units delivered. This pushed the EV contribution to total car sales to 21 percent, led by the iX1 and the flagship i7 sedan. This momentum also allowed BMW Group India to surpass a cumulative total of 5,000 electric vehicle deliveries during the third quarter. The company supports its six electric cars and two electric scooters with a comprehensive charging ecosystem, including complimentary Wallbox chargers, a fast-charging dealer network and access to over 6,000 public charging points.

Further defining the sales landscape is the exceptional demand for long wheelbase models, which grew by 169 percent to 5,720 units. These models, including the 7 Series, 5 Series, 3 Series and the iX1, now constitute half of all car sales. The 3 Series emerged as the highest-selling BMW sedan, praised for its spaciousness and powerful engine, while the 7 Series continues to be the segment's most desirable ultra-luxury limousine.

The Sports Activity Vehicle (SAV) segment also remains a cornerstone of BMW's dominance, with 7,040 units sold, a 19 percent increase that represents 59 percent of total sales. The X1 was the highest-selling model across the entire portfolio and within its segment, followed by the flagship X7. Meanwhile, the MINI brand delivered 468 units between January to September 2025 and saw the Cooper S model achieve a sales growth of over 90 percent. BMW Motorrad sold 3,976 motorcycles, with the G 310 RR and the 1300 GS / GSA models leading their respective categories.

Hardeep Singh Brar, President and CEO, BMW Group India, said, “BMW Group India has continuously succeeded in attaining high growth throughout 2025. The highest-ever sales in first nine months as well as in the third quarter reflect our unparalleled focus on customer centricity. The strong product offensive coupled with excellent aftersales services, personalised brand engagements and financial offers have spurred demand significantly. Our long-term strategy is aimed at successfully unlocking the potential of luxury car market and increasing market share while maintaining the core of JOY and Sheer Driving Pleasure we promise. The order bank remains healthy, and we are confident of closing the year with best-ever sales once again.”

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