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.

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Kia India, a leading passenger vehicle manufacturer, has launched the new Kia Carens Clavis at prices starting INR 1.14 million.

Available in 6- and 7-seater configurations, the Carens Clavis comes with Kia Digital Tiger Face, Ice Cube MFR LED headlamps with LED DRL, and Starmap LED connected taillamps.

Equipped with R17-43.66 cm (17-inch) crystal-cut dual-tone alloy wheels, durable front and rear skid plates with a satin chrome finish, metal-painted side door garnish inserts, and a new Ivory Silver Gloss body colour gives it a premium visual identity.

On the inside, the Karens Clavis offers spacious 3rd-row seating, 2nd-row seats with sliding, reclining, and one-touch easy electric tumble for flexible comfort. It also gets segment first walk-in lever (Boss Mode) for effortless access and optimal space adjustment.

A 26.62-inch dual panoramic display panel infotainment and driving interface also adds to the premium quotient. 64-colour customisable ambinet lighting, seat-mounted smart air purifier with AQI display, dual-pane panoramic sunroof, ventilated front seats and 4-way powered drivers seat along with 8 speakers Bose premium sound system is what’s offered on the inside.

On the safety front, the Kia Carens Clavis is equipped with Level 2 Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS), with 20 autonomous safety features, including:

• Smart Cruise Control (SCC) with Stop and Go
• Front Collision-Avoidance Assist- Car, Pedestrian, Cyclist
• Front Collision-Avoidance Assist – Direct Oncoming
• Lane Keeping Assist
• Blind Spot Collision Warning
• Blind View Monitor in Cluster
• Rear Cross Traffic Collision Avoidance Assist

Additionally, as part of the robust standard safety package, it comprises of 18 advanced safety features, including:

• Six Airbags for Enhanced Protection
• Electronic Stability Control (ESC)
• Rear Occupant Alert System
• HAC (Hill-start Assist Control) , DBC (Downhill Brake Control)
• Rear Parking Sensors
• Highline Tyre Pressure Monitoring System

The Carens Clavis can be had with Smartstream G1.5 and Smartstream G1.5 Turbo-Gdi petrol engines or 1.5-litre CRDi VGT diesel engine. A choice of automatic transmission and 6MT configuration is also available.

Joonsu Cho, Chief Sales Officer, Kia India, said, “At the heart of our strategy lies a relentless drive for innovation – powered by cutting-edge technology and distinctive design. The launch of the Carens Clavis marks a significant chapter in our journey, reflecting our unwavering commitment to a progressive, premium, and purpose-driven vision. We understand that our customers’ expectations are evolving, and with the Carens Clavis, we are delivering more than mobility, it’s a curated experience that enhances everyday journeys. As we chart new paths forward, we remain focused on offering smart, design-centric solutions that empower modern families and inspire trust with every drive.”

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Pointo, a leading innovator in India's Energy Solution sector, and Jadavpur University (JU) will collaborate to transform fossil fuel-powered Hindustan Ambassador cars into fully electric vehicles (EVs). The landmark project goes beyond retrofitment and underlines sustainable as well as eco-friendly transport. 
As part of the endeavour, Pointo will leverage its ability to create a circular economy in the battery industry by providing affordable and scalable energy solution models and vast supply and distribution network. 
Showcasing batteries as power sources and enablers of transformation, converting decades-old diesel-run vehicles into emission-free electric cars, the endeavour with Pointo and Jadavpur University as able partners, will involve detailed design and engineering exercise to successfully retrofit Hindustan Ambassador models - Classic, Grand, Avigo and Encore with electric propulsion system. 
The finer details of it will include vehicle diagnostics, electric motor and powertrain integration, smart battery placement, chassis and suspension adaptations and embedding of advanced BMS (Battery Management System). There will be telemetry software a part too.
Attention will be on achieving full regulatory compliance for pan-India deployment as well. The retrofitted Ambassadors will undergo rigorous testing to meet the Central Motor Vehicles Rules (CMVR), receive emission-free certification, and secure approvals from authorities like the Automotive Research Association of India (ARAI).
This project would address a deeper societal and environmental challenge. For example, the iconic yellow Ambassador taxis, still operating in parts of Kolkata and other cities, powered by ageing diesel engines, are claimed to contribute significantly to urban air pollution and declining public health standards.
Transforming them into EVs would remove the pollution stigma attached to them through this initiative that keeps into view the need to arrest air quality degradation at its source and provide a replicable, scalable solution for thousands of such vehicles across Indian cities.
While the project begins in West Bengal, its implications are national, mentioned a source aware of the development. 
“This partnership with Jadavpur University marks a major step towards transforming India’s Clean Energy Storage and Power legacy,” said Riki Biswas, CEO and Director, Pointo. “With our expertise in battery technology and JU’s engineering excellence, we aim to not just retrofit vehicles but build a platform where the dependency on fossil fuels is reduced and batteries as a source of power and storage are promoted. This project has the potential to reduce emissions at scale, create livelihood opportunities, and preserve automotive heritage while aligning with our national electric mobility goals,” he added. 

Image Credit: Jan J George

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Tata Motors, one of India’s leading passenger vehicle manufacturers, has launched the all-new Altroz premium hatchback, with prices starting at INR 689,000 (ex-showroom Delhi).

The latest iteration of the Altroz brings refreshed styling, advanced technology, expanded powertrain options and an AMT gearbox option for the first time.

The Altroz will continue to be offered in three powertrain options – 1.2L Revotron Petrol (Manual, DCA & new AMT), 1.2L iCNG with Twin-Cylinder Tech and 1.5L Revotorq Diesel engine. The hatchback will also be offered with 5-speed manual and 6-speed dual-clutch automatic options.

Interestingly, the Altroz continues to be the only premium hatchback in its segment to be offered with a diesel engine. The company states that in addition to cosmetic changes such as bold 3D front grille, flush door handles, Luminate LED headlamps and connected Infinity LED tail lamps, the usage of high-tensile steel has also gone up.

This means that the Altroz hatchback continues to be amongst the safest vehicles in its segment. It also gets 6 Airbags and ESP as standard, enhanced structural rigidity with reinforced crumple zones, SOS Calling Function (E-Call/B-Call), ISOFIX mounts, Hill Hold Assist, LED fog lamps with cornering and more.

On the inside, the cabin features dual-tone soft-touch materials, ambient lighting, a flat rear floor and lounge-style rear seats with extended thigh support. A 10.25-inch Harman infotainment display, 360deg camera, voice-enabled sunroof and wireless smartphone connectivity further enhance the in-cabin experience.

Shailesh Chandra, Managing Director, Tata Motors Passenger Vehicle and Tata Passenger Electric Mobility, said, “Our journey in the last 5 years has been defined by fast-paced growth and transformation. As we look ahead, FY2026 is not about incremental gains – it’s about a quantum leap. With 1 million+ premium hatches sold in the last 3 years, we believe hatchbacks remain a critical part of India’s mobility landscape. Today, we are proud to introduce a bold new chapter in premium hatchbacks with the re-imagination of the Altroz."

"The 2025 edition makes the Altroz shine brighter by seamlessly blending contemporary design, advanced technology, and a performance-led approach. It embodies everything today’s Premium Hatch Customer seeks – modern styling, a premium feel, tech-rich features, next-level safety and the widest range of powertrain options. Every element has been thoughtfully crafted to holistically elevate the driving experience. The all new Altroz will make its owners truly ‘Feel Special’,” added Chandra.

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Maruti Suzuki India (MSIL) has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Standard Chartered for inventory funding, which aims to support over 4,000 Maruti Suzuki sales outlets across the country, with comprehensive inventory funding options for their working capital requirements. 

The MoU was signed in the presence of Partho Banerjee, Senior Executive Officer —Marketing & Sales, Nobutaka Suzuki, Senior Executive Officer — Marketing & Sales, Vishal Sharma, Vice-President — Maruti Suzuki Finance & Driving School and P D Singh, CEO - India & South Asia, Sanjay Gurjar, Co-Head Coverage India & SA , Vikash Goenka, Head, Supply Chain Finance, India, Sourish Mitra, Head-Sales, Supply Chain Finance India, from Standard Chartered.

Partho Banerjee, said, “This partnership takes us a step towards further in empowering our dealer partners, while the Company continues to expand its market presence, as always. This strategic alliance will leverage the combined strengths of MSIL and Standard Chartered to offer comprehensive working capital solutions to our dealer partners. We believe this innovative financing solution will support dealerships in enhancing their ability to manage inventory efficiently and deliver exceptional service and customer satisfaction.”

Sanjay Gurjar, said, “We are very excited to partner with Maruti Suzuki, a leader in the automotive sector, to provide financing solutions to its dealer partners. At Standard Chartered Bank, we are committed to supporting businesses in India by providing them with the necessary financial tools and developing customised ecosystem solutions to drive their strategic growth. We truly believe our supply chain solutions will ensure that Maruti Suzuki dealers receive timely and efficient inventory funding, helping them to thrive in a competitive market space.”

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