Toyota Kirloskar Motor, a leading passenger vehicle manufacturer, has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the Zilla Parishad to upgrade the infrastructure of the Zilla Parishad Kendriya Prathamik School (ZPKPS) in Bidkin, Chhatrapati Sambhaji Nagar, Maharashtra.

The MoU was exchanged at the Collector Office in the presence of Deelip Swami, Collector and District Magistrate, Ankit, CEO of the Zilla Parishad, officials from the Education Department and senior Toyota Kirloskar Motor representatives including Sudeep Dalvi, Chief Communication Officer and Senior Vice-President.

This school development forms part of the automaker’s education-focused corporate social responsibility (CSR) activities and aligns with its recent investment to set up a greenfield manufacturing facility in Maharashtra.

ZPKPS Bidkin, a 100-year-old school currently serving over 800 students, is expected to see enrolment rise to around 1,200. The infrastructure project will be implemented in phases over three years, from 2025 to 2028.

Education continues to be a key area in Toyota Kirloskar Motor’s CSR work, which supports national initiatives such as Skill India and the National Education Policy. The company’s focus includes early childhood care, literacy, and access to learning resources.

Deelip Swami, said, “We welcome this collaboration with Toyota Kirloskar Motor to upgrade the infrastructure of ZPKPS Bidkin, a school that has been central to educating children from economically weaker sections in the region. With student numbers expected to grow significantly, this initiative comes at a crucial time and will greatly enhance the learning environment. Strengthening public education through such collaborative efforts is key to ensuring inclusive development. We appreciate Toyota’s proactive contribution toward this shared goal and are confident that the project will create lasting value for the children and the broader community of Bidkin.”

Sudeep Dalvi, said, “At Toyota Kirloskar Motor, our commitment to nation-building extends beyond mobility solutions. We firmly believe that education is one of the most powerful enablers of long-term, inclusive development. By creating a nurturing and modern learning environment for nearly 1,200 students, we are investing in the potential of future generations. This MoU reflects our continued collaboration with government stakeholders in delivering high-impact interventions that strengthen the social fabric of our communities. This initiative marks the beginning of our engagement in the state, as we move forward, our efforts will remain rooted in our core philosophy of ‘Creating Mobility for All’—that can transform lives and uplift entire communities.”

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Japanese luxury brand Lexus India has introduced the new Lexus LM 350h limousine in the country.

The LM 350h is claimed to set a benchmark for first-class travel, focusing on a calm and productive experience. Improvements include: An E20-compliant engine, supporting sustainability. Power sliding door switch at the rear console for convenience and intuitive control. Auto-dimming ORVM function for safety and driver comfort in the four-seater variant. A new rear console tray for rear-seat occupants in the four-seater variant.

Hikaru Ikeuchi, President, Lexus India, said, "We are truly humbled by the overwhelming response from our guests to the Lexus LM 350h and wish to sincerely thank our customers for their patience in waiting for this exceptional vehicle. The LM is a testament to our unwavering commitment to luxury, featuring grand interiors and an exclusive private lounge that redefines comfort and sophistication. It sets a new benchmark in first-class luxury travel, offering our guests an unparalleled experience of refinement, prestige and indulgence in India."

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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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