SEAT Ramps Up EV Ambitions At Martorell With Battery Assembly And Stamping Milestones

SEAT Ramps Up EV Ambitions At Martorell With Battery Assembly And Stamping Milestones

SEAT S.A. is accelerating its transition to electric mobility, hitting key milestones at its Martorell facility that signal growing momentum in the company’s EV strategy. In a critical year for its electrification push, the Volkswagen Group unit has begun pre-series assembly of battery systems and produced its first body panels for the CUPRA Raval using a next-generation press line.

The Spanish automaker, tasked with leading the development and production of the Volkswagen Group’s Electric Urban Car family under the Brand Group Core umbrella, is laying the groundwork for full-scale production of two compact EVs set to roll off the Martorell line starting in 2026.

“The assembly of the first battery systems in our new plant and the production of body parts on the new PXL press for the future electric models we will manufacture in Martorell is a key milestone in our electrification process,” highlights Markus Haupt, Interim CEO of SEAT and CUPRA and Executive Vice-President for Production and Logistics at SEAT S. A. “This is a decisive year, as we continue to prepare for the start of series production of the Brand Group Core’s Electric Urban Car family in 2026, starting with the CUPRA Raval, with the vision of leading electromobility in the Iberian Peninsula.”

Battery Assembly Line Powers Up

SEAT has initiated pre-series battery assembly at its newly constructed plant in Martorell, less than 18 months after breaking ground. The facility marks a Euro 300 million investment spanning 64,000 square meters and is poised to deliver up to 300,000 battery systems annually once fully operational.

Initially combining manual labour with automated systems, the battery line will transition to fully robotised production supported by a 500-strong workforce. A 600-meter conveyor bridge is under construction to link the battery facility to the main assembly line, enabling real-time, automated battery transfers and streamlining logistics.

The plant will supply energy storage units exclusively for the CUPRA Raval and the production version of the Volkswagen ID.2all, both built on VW’s MEB platform and slated for assembly at Martorell. SEAT expects the local battery production to enhance cost-efficiency and reduce carbon emissions across the supply chain.

Advanced Stamping Ushers in New Era of Production

Alongside battery progress, SEAT has launched pre-series production of body parts for the CUPRA Raval using its new PXL press, a high-speed stamping line capable of 15 strokes per minute and up to 4 million components annually. The press, operational since 2024, underscores SEAT’s drive to modernise Martorell as it evolves into a smart, connected and sustainable EV manufacturing hub.

The PXL press line is central to SEAT’s broader industrial transformation, enabling faster, more precise production of large metal components and bolstering the facility’s readiness for volume EV production starting in 2026.

Maruti Suzuki India Launches Victoris Aurum Edition To Mark Sales Milestone

Maruti Suzuki Victoris Aurum

Maruti Suzuki India, the country’s largest carmaker, has introduced the Victoris Aurum Edition Strong Hybrid to mark the first anniversary of the Victoris SUV, featuring an accessory kit priced at INR 22,990.

The launch follows the model reaching sales of 100,000 and 150,000 units within its initial year of production. The Aurum Edition incorporates copper-coloured inserts on the front, side and rear skid plates, along with revised wheel arch trim.

On the outside, it gets chrome garnishes across the front grille, fenders, bumpers, body side mouldings and door visors. Interior additions comprise all-weather 3D cabin mats, a 3D boot mat and a trunk sill guard.

Furthermore, the company has partnered with actor Shahid Kapoor to lead the promotional campaign for the variant.

Partho Banerjee, Senior Executive Officer – Marketing and Sales, Maruti Suzuki India, said, "Conceptualised as a ‘Got it All’ SUV for today’s dynamic young go-getters who ‘want it all’, the Victoris has truly won the hearts of buyers. As we celebrate its first anniversary, it’s worth noting that the Victoris has become the fastest-selling PV to clock both the 150,000- and 100,000-unit sales milestones, going on to achieve the highest sales for any car in India during its 1st year of launch. Recognising these extraordinary achievements, we are introducing the Victoris Aurum Edition Strong Hybrid, with tasteful enhancements that are sure to grab eyeballs and make this festive season feel all the more special for our valuable customers. Our association with Shahid Kapoor, for the new Aurum Edition is also sure to complement the Victoris’ contemporary appeal."

Hyundai Bayon To Feature 69% High-Strength Steel Grade For Enhanced Safety

Hyundai Bayon

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."

Mitsubishi Motors Launches All-New Pajero In Thailand Ahead Of Global Rollout

Mitsubishi Pajero

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."

Param Automotive Inaugurates Upgraded Mahindra Showroom In Ahmedabad

Mahindra Showroom

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.