Over the past seven decades, SEAT has undergone a profound transformation and demonstrated a constant capacity for reinvention, which has enabled it to remain a benchmark throughout its history.

Formally established on 9 May 1950 after an agreement was signed between the National Institute of Industry, with 51 percent of the share capital (600 million pesetas, which today would be €3.6 million); seven large Spanish banks (42 percent) and the Italian manufacturer Fiat (7 percent), which provided technical advice and the production licence for its models. When originally created, the company’s name was Sociedad Española de Automóviles de Turismo, S.A., but was officially changed to SEAT in the 1990s.

When production began in 1953, just 925 people worked on the line. Today, SEAT employs more than 15,000 people as well as generating more than 100,000 direct and indirect jobs within the supply chain. So far a total of more than 19 million vehicles have been built and sold, and more than 72,000 people have been employed by the company. The Ibiza (5.8 million sold) is the most popular SEAT of all time, followed by the Leon (2.3 million), 127 (1.2 million), Cordoba (1.03 million) and the Toledo (1.01 million).

Since the company made its first export sale in 1965, SEAT has established itself as Spain’s leading industrial exporter, accounting for almost 3 percent of the country’s economic exports. Today, SEAT vehicles reach countries as far as New Zealand, Mexico and French Guiana.

SEAT President and Vice-president for Finance and IT Carsten Isensee, said, “Throughout its 70 year history, SEAT has demonstrated its ability to reinvent itself and successfully meet the challenges that have come its way. A transforming force that has seen SEAT grow from a car manufacturer into a solid technological and industrial company.”

Over the past 70 years the carmaker has launched a total of 75 models, including vehicles that have marked a turning point for the company. This started in 1953 with the SEAT 1400, the first car manufactured by the company, or with the legendary SEAT 600, which was unveiled in 1957 and soon became a symbol of freedom and mobility in Spain.

More recently, in 1984 the first SEAT Ibiza arrived followed by the SEAT Leon in 1999, both of which have been a sales success since its launch, with 2016 heralding the introduction of the brand’s first SUV (Ateca) and its first electric vehicle in 2019, the SEAT Mii electric.

Currently, the company has three production centres: Barcelona, El Prat de Llobregat and Martorell, where the Ibiza, the Arona and the Leon are currently manufactured. In addition, the Ateca is built in the Czech Republic, the Tarraco in Germany, the Alhambra in Portugal and the Mii electric, SEAT’s first 100 percent electric vehicle, in Slovakia. Today, the same number of cars are produced in three minutes as was built in a whole day in 1950. (MT)

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Hyundai Motor India, one of the leading passenger vehicle manufacturers, has detailed the safety specifications and platform architecture for its upcoming Bayon SUV model ahead of its official launch in India on 26 October 2026.

Built on the Global K Enhanced Platform, the Bayon utilises a body structure comprising of 69 percent high-strength steel grades, integrating hot-stamped components across the front apron, dashboard, rear floor and side reinforcements.

The vehicle incorporates Hyundai SmartSense Level 2 Pro ADAS, providing 23 driver assistance features supported by three radar units and 12 parking sensors. Over 35 safety features are fitted as standard across all variants, including six airbags, electronic stability control, hill-start assist control, a tyre pressure monitoring system (TPMS) and ISOFIX child seat anchors.

The Bayon will be powered by a 1.5-litre MPi four-cylinder petrol engine producing 84.4 kW (115 PS) and 143.8 Nm of torque, paired with a six-speed manual or an Intelligent Variable Transmission. Exterior options will span 10 colour configurations across monotone, dual-tone, and matte finishes.

Tarun Garg, Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer of Hyundai Motor India, said, "At Hyundai, we believe that true innovation is meaningful only when it enhances the everyday experiences of our customers. With the Hyundai BAYON, we have combined a robust body structure, advanced safety technologies, and intelligent driver assistance systems to deliver a comprehensive safety experience. From its reinforced chassis and high-strength steel construction to Hyundai SmartSense Level 2 Pro ADAS, the BAYON is engineered to inspire confidence not only in challenging situations, but throughout every journey. This reflects our commitment to delivering intelligent mobility solutions that are safe, connected, and progressive for modern India."

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Japanese automotive major Mitsubishi Motors has commenced sales of the Pajero cross-country SUV in Thailand, serving as the initial market for the model’s international release.

The Pajero’s production takes place at the Laem Chabang facility operated by Mitsubishi Motors in Chonburi Province, which functions as a manufacturing hub for export operations.

Shipments to Australia and Japan are scheduled ahead of market releases in mid-December, followed by sequential introductions across approximately 100 countries and regions in the Middle East and Latin America starting in fiscal 2027.

The Pajero integrates four-wheel-drive capability with passenger car handling characteristics and positioning as a flagship offering.

Keisuke Kishiura, President and Chief Operating Officer, Mitsubishi Motors, said, "We are delighted to begin sales of the all-new Pajero in Thailand as the first market for its global rollout. Thailand is not only an important market for Mitsubishi Motors, but also a key hub for our production and exports. The all-new Pajero is a flagship model that embodies Mitsubishi Motors and is positioned among the top-tier cross-country SUVs in the Thai market. We will continue to deliver appealing products from Thailand to customers around the world and provide value that exceeds expectations."

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Param Automotive Group has inaugurated an upgraded dealership facility in Ahmedabad to mark its silver jubilee year.

Located at the site established in 2002, the facility spans 40,000 square feet and features display space for 18 vehicles.

The showroom includes customer lounges, delivery zones, accessory bays, test-drive areas and hospitality spaces to support vehicle sales and customer service operations.

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BMW Group India has integrated the MINI brand into its Speed Motorwagen dealership in Lucknow, creating a multi-brand retail facility representing BMW, MINI and BMW Motorrad under one roof.

The Retail.NEXT facility is spread across a 12,142-square-foot showroom for BMW and MINI alongside a 2,088-square-foot pre-owned vehicle display area. The showroom accommodates eight BMW vehicles, three certified pre-owned units and two MINI vehicles.

The site also includes a 2,100-square-foot BMW Motorrad display area featuring 11 motorcycles, supported by dedicated service workshops comprising mechanical, electrical and programming bays. MINI's introduction in Uttar Pradesh aligns with the brand's national retail footprint, which spans 18 sales touchpoints across 17 cities.

Hardeep Singh Brar, President and CEO, BMW Group India, said, "Lucknow is an important luxury market, with customers increasingly seeking brands that reflect their individuality and aspirations. Since 2012, BMW has shaped this market through a compelling portfolio, exceptional experiences and a strong local presence. We lead the luxury electric vehicle segment in Uttar Pradesh, reflecting the growing preference for progressive, sustainable mobility and the strength of our electric portfolio. MINI with its unmistakable style, spirited performance and distinctive character, is a natural fit for Lucknow’s refined taste and appreciation for self-expression. Together with Speed Motorwagen, we are strengthening the power of choice by bringing BMW, MINI and BMW Motorrad under one roof, supported by personalised attention and seamless ownership support."

Divij Narain, Dealer Principal of Speed Motorwagen, said, "The arrival of MINI marks a significant milestone for Speed Motorwagen and discerning automotive enthusiasts in Lucknow. Alongside BMW’s progressive luxury and BMW Motorrad’s spirit of freedom and adventure, MINI adds a distinctive new dimension to our portfolio. Our team is committed to bringing each brand to life through thoughtfully curated product discovery, expert consultation and comprehensive aftersales care. We look forward to nurturing passionate communities across all three brands and ensuring every customer interaction is as memorable and individual as the mobility experience they choose."

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