Two New Automotive Industry Experts To Be Present at Zero Prototypes Summit
- By MT News
- September 29, 2022
VI-grade, a simulation and driving simulator company that accelerates product innovation by bridging the gap between simulation and physical testing, announced two additional automotive expert contributors for its first North American Zero Prototypes Summit (ZPS), on Wednesday. These automotive experts are automotive race and passenger car test driver, Andy Priaulx, and transportation research analyst, Sam Abuelsamid. The Zero Prototypes Summit is to be held on 12 October, 2022 at Multimatic's SimCenter in Novi, Michigan. It will include presentations from automotive companies like Ford Motor Company, General Motors, Automobili Lamborghini, Bridgestone, HARMAN International, Hitachi Astemo, McMaster University and Stackpole Engineering Services, states VI-grade.
According to VI-grade, Priaulx (who has been involved with Multimatic Motorsports since 2016 as an advisor and full-time test driver in numerous development projects, and is also a three-time FIA World Touring Car champion) will provide insights about his experience with the DiM250 Driving Simulator installed at Multimatic’s SimCenter.
“I look forward to attending and contributing to the first ever North American Zero Prototypes Summit,” said Priaulx, sharing his thoughts. He added, “I especially look forward to being able to present to attendees the benefits I have directly experienced using the DiM250 Dynamic Driving Simulator to actually impact the development process. I’ll also be holding a live racing demo session, where I’ll push Multimatic’s DiM to its limits to prove the value a driving simulator brings in accelerating and refining the vehicle development process.”
As for Abuelsamid, VI-grade claims he will be moderating the summit. He comes with an experience of over two decades as a product development engineer in the automotive industry, developing advanced electronic control systems and embedded software. He is also a principal analyst at Guidehouse, leading the mobility ecosystem research service, with a focus on transportation electrification, automated driving and mobility services.
“I’m thrilled to moderate VI-grade’s first ever North American Zero Prototypes Summit, with such a broad array of OEMs and suppliers presenting,” Abuelsamid said and continued, “As the industry shifts electrification, automation and new vehicle architectures, simulation is more important than ever. I look forward to learning how these global automotive leaders are pushing the development envelope with VI-grade’s products towards achieving zero prototypes, as well as experiencing the full suite of VI-grade’s simulators at Multimatic.”
As per VI-grade, in addition to the technical presentations from industry-leading companies, the summit will also feature a series of application-specific driving simulator sessions. The full range of VI-grade’s driving simulators, specifically targeted at discipline-oriented applications (ride and handling, NVH, ADAS and AV, HMI and motorsports) will be available for attendees to experience. AutoHawk, VI-grade’s HiL solution powered by Concurrent Real-Time for Automotive Applications, will also be on display for the first time in North America, states the driving simulator company.
Maruti Suzuki India Launches Victoris Aurum Edition To Mark Sales Milestone
- By MT Bureau
- October 24, 2026
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
- By MT Bureau
- October 21, 2026
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
- By MT Bureau
- October 21, 2026
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
- By MT Bureau
- October 20, 2026
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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