Tesla's Official Entry into India
Tesla has officially launched its operations in India with the inauguration of its first showroom in Mumbai's Bandra Kurla Complex (BKC) on July 15, 2025. This marks a significant milestone for the American electric vehicle (EV) manufacturer as it expands its global footprint into one of the world's largest automobile markets.
Tesla Model Y Launched in India
Tesla's first offering in the Indian market is the Model Y, which is available in two variants:
Model Y Rear-Wheel Drive (RWD): Priced at ₹59.89 lakh (ex-showroom) and ₹61.07 lakh (on-road).
Model Y Long Range Rear-Wheel Drive: Priced at ₹67.89 lakh (ex-showroom) and ₹69.14 lakh (on-road).
Both variants are equipped with advanced features such as a 15.4-inch central touchscreen, 15-speaker premium sound system, ventilated electric front seats, and advanced driver assistance systems (ADAS). The RWD variant offers an estimated range of 574 km, while the Long Range RWD variant offers a range of approximately 622 km.
Tesla Model 3 Expected Launch
The Tesla Model 3 is anticipated to launch in India in November 2026. While official pricing has not been announced, estimates suggest that the Model 3 could be priced between ₹70 lakh and ₹90 lakh, depending on the variant. This pricing positions the Model 3 in competition with other premium electric sedans in the Indian market.
Strategic Entry into the Indian Market
Tesla's entry into India is characterized by a premium pricing strategy, primarily due to high import duties on fully built units (CBUs). The company has opted to import vehicles from its Shanghai Gigafactory to maintain quality and control costs. This approach allows Tesla to test the Indian market's response before making significant investments in local manufacturing.
Future Prospects
Looking ahead, Tesla plans to expand its presence in India with additional showrooms in Delhi and Bengaluru. The company is also in discussions with the Indian government regarding potential local manufacturing to reduce costs and align with India's electric vehicle policies. This strategic move aims to increase EV adoption in India and position Tesla as a key player in the country's growing electric vehicle market.
Range Rover Velar Autobiography Unveiled in India at ₹89.90 Lakh
Land Rover adds a new pinnacle trim to its elegant Velar SUV lineup — the Autobiography, launched today in India at ₹89.90 Lakh (ex-showroom). It slots above the Dynamic SE variant, offering enhanced luxury, richer equipment, and a choice of petrol or diesel powertrains
Luxury Additions & Exterior Flair
Burnished Copper accents on bumpers, bonnet lettering, and tailgate enhance its visual appeal
Updated Pixel LED headlights, redesigned 20″ Satin Dark Grey alloy wheels
Four exclusive colors: Ostuni Pearl White, Varesine Blue, Arroios Grey, Batumi Gold
Premium Interior & Tech Features
Panoramic sliding sunroof and Suedecloth headliner amplify cabin ambiance
Front seats boast 20-way electric adjustment and massage, with optional powered recline for rear seats
Cabin lined with Full Extended Windsor leather, choice of premium hues (Cloud‑Ebony, Deep‑Garnet‑Ebony, Caraway‑Ebony)
Tech suite includes an 11.4″ touchscreen, 12.3″ digital instrument cluster, Meridian 3D surround sound, 360° camera, and Terrain Response 2
Engine Lineup & Dynamics
Petrol P250: 2.0 L turbo charged — 250 PS & 365 Nm; 0–100 km/h in 7.5 s
Diesel D200: 2.0 L mild‑hybrid — 204 PS & 430 Nm; 0–100 km/h in 8.3 s
All variants come with 8-speed auto transmission and AWD
Retains sophisticated tech like electronic air suspension, adaptive dynamics, wade sensing, and standard ABS, EBD, and ESP
Segment Positioning & Appeal
Priced ₹5 Lakh above the Velar Dynamic SE, the Autobiography appeals to buyers seeking premium comfort and luxury without moving to larger SUVs
Positioned alongside rivals like BMW X5, Mercedes GLE, and Volvo XC90, while offering a more compact, stylish format and luxurious features
Final Take for CarTopNews
The Range Rover Velar Autobiography raises the bar in luxury compact SUVs with its refined design, indulgent materials, advanced tech, and performance. It offers a compelling alternative for those seeking refinement in a smaller footprint. A refined blend of style and substance.
All-New 2025 BMW 2 Series Gran Coupe Debuts in India from ₹46.90 Lakh
BMW has launched the second-generation (F74) 2 Series Gran Coupe in India, built at its Chennai plant. The premium four-door coupe is available in two trims:
218i M Sport – ₹46.90 Lakh (ex-showroom)
218i M Sport Pro – ₹48.90 Lakh (ex-showroom)
Deliveries begin immediately across BMW dealerships.
Top-of-Class Design & Dimensions
Sleeker “shark-nose” front fascia with a redesigned single-piece kidney grille, sharper LED headlights, and vertical air intakes
Sporty 18″ alloy wheels, revised rear bumper diffuser, and slim tail-lights complete the coupe-like stance
Marginally upsized—20 mm longer, 15 mm wider, and 15 mm taller—for improved presence and cabin space
Tech-Rich Interior
Driver-focused cockpit featuring a curved 10.7″ touchscreen and 10.25″ digital instrument cluster, angled for intuitive use
Added features include a panoramic sunroof, wireless Apple CarPlay/Android Auto, wireless charging, 360° camera, auto park assist, and BMW Digital Key
A roof-mounted camera allows occupants to snap photos/videos, shareable directly to smartphones
Powertrain & Performance
Powered by a 1.5 L, 3-cylinder turbo-petrol engine delivering 156 hp and 230 Nm, mated to a 7-speed DCT front-wheel-drive setup
Acceleration: 0–100 km/h in approximately 8.6 seconds; top speed ~230 km/h
While more restrained than the outgoing 2.0 L 4-cyl / diesel options, this engine balances performance and efficiency with an ARAI claimed 16.35 kmpl
Segment Positioning & Rivals
Positioned as BMW’s entry-level luxury sedan—it competes directly with the Mercedes‑Benz A-Class sedan (Rs 46.05–48.55 L ex-showroom)
Commands a premium of roughly ₹85,000 to ₹2.85 Lakh over the Merc, justified by its sporty appeal and enhanced feature set
Final Take
The all-new BMW 2 Series Gran Coupe offers a compelling blend of style, connectivity, and driving pleasure. With its sharp aesthetics, elevated tech, and polished new engine, it’s a strong contender in the premium compact sedan segment. Ideal for those who value a sporty silhouette and refined luxury.
2025 Volvo XC60 Facelift Launching in India on 1 August
Volvo India has confirmed that the facelifted 2025 XC60 will debut in India on 1 August 2025, marking its arrival with subtle yet impactful design, tech, and comfort upgrades
Key Updates
Exterior Styling Refresh
Redesigned front grille featuring new diagonal slats and updated Volvo “Iron Mark” logo
New alloy wheel designs, darker smoked tail-lights, and revised air-vent styling lend a modern, sporty edge
Premium Interior & Infotainment
A striking 11.2″ freestanding infotainment screen with improved pixel density and faster Qualcomm Snapdragon power delivers smarter UX and seamless OTA updates
Refreshed upholstery and trim finishes complement retained features like the Bowers & Wilkins audio system
Powertrain & Drivetrain
Powertrain remains unchanged: the familiar 2.0 L twin-turbo petrol mild-hybrid engine, producing ~250 PS and 360 Nm, paired with an 8-speed auto and 48V mild-hybrid tech
Diesel variants are likely to be phased out; all-wheel-drive mild-hybrid petrol expected to continue .
Global Success & Segment Position
Globally, the XC60 stands as Volvo’s best-selling model, with over 2.7 million units sold since 2008, surpassing the iconic 240 series
In India, it competes in the premium mid-size SUV segment against the BMW X3, Mercedes-Benz GLC, and Audi Q5
What to Expect in India
Booking & Pricing: Likely to open in late July or early August, with a modest premium over current prices.
Launch date confirmed: 1 August 2025.
Deliveries to begin soon after, with reviews and test drives expected in August.
Final Take
The updated Volvo XC60 facelift brings refreshed design, a cutting-edge infotainment system, and subtle tech enhancements—all while retaining proven powertrain and safety credentials. This positions it strongly as a premium, tech-forward, yet familiar choice in a fiercely competitive mid-size SUV market.
EMotorad Unveils Ranger: A Moto-Style E-Cycle Blending Bike Aesthetics with Electric Cycling
Indian electric cycle manufacturer EMotorad has launched the Ranger, a first-of-its-kind moto-style e-cycle that combines the rugged aesthetics of a motorcycle with the functionality of an electric bicycle. Priced at ₹55,999, the Ranger is now available across EMotorad’s dealership network as well as on Amazon and Flipkart.
Key Specifications
Frame: High-tensile steel with a rugged, motorbike-inspired design
Tyres: Fat 20-inch tyres for enhanced stability
Suspension: Double-crown front fork with 120mm travel
Battery: 48V 12.75Ah removable battery
Range: Up to 75 km on pedal assist and 60 km on throttle mode
Display: Cluster C6+ for vital ride metrics
Gearing: Shimano 7-speed for versatile shifting
Weight Capacity: Supports riders up to 110 kg
Warranty: 5-year warranty on the frame
Compatibility: Suitable for riders 5.4 feet and above
Sustainable and Accessible Urban Mobility
The Ranger offers a stylish, smart, and sustainable alternative to traditional fuel-powered two-wheelers. With no license required, it provides an accessible option for urban commuters seeking an eco-friendly and cost-effective mode of transport. Its design and features make it suitable for both city commuting and off-road adventures, catering to a diverse range of riders.
Summary
EMotorad's Ranger e-cycle represents a significant innovation in urban mobility, merging the appeal of motorcycle aesthetics with the practicality and sustainability of electric cycling. With its robust design, impressive specifications, and accessible pricing, the Ranger is poised to redefine the way we perceive and use personal electric transportation
Aprilia SR 175 Launched at ₹1.26 Lakh in India
Aprilia has introduced the SR 175 in India at an ex-showroom price of ₹1.26 lakh, replacing the SR 160 in its lineup. The SR 175 features a new 174.7cc air-cooled engine, delivering 12.92 hp at 7,200 rpm and 14.14 Nm of torque at 6,000 rpm. This engine is mated to a CVT automatic gearbox, offering improved performance over the SR 160.
Key Specifications
Engine: 174.7cc, single-cylinder, air-cooled, 3-valve setup
Power Output: 12.92 hp @ 7,200 rpm
Torque: 14.14 Nm @ 6,000 rpm
Transmission: CVT automatic
Brakes: Front disc with single-channel ABS, rear drum
Suspension: Telescopic fork front, mono-shock rear
Wheels: 14-inch alloy wheels with 120-section tyres
Display: 5.5-inch TFT display with Bluetooth connectivity
Charging: USB charging port
Design & Features
The SR 175 maintains the sporty design of the SR 160, with updates inspired by the RS 457. It is available in two new colour schemes: Matt Prismatic Dark and Glossy Tech White. The scooter features twin LED headlamps, a flat footboard, a single-piece seat with a grab handle, and an upswept exhaust. The 5.5-inch TFT display offers multiple layout options and integrates with the Aprilia app for call alerts, notifications, and music control
Competitors
The Aprilia SR 175 competes with other sporty scooters in the Indian market, such as the Yamaha Aerox 155 and Hero Xoom 160. Its enhanced engine performance and advanced features position it as a strong contender in the maxi-scooter segment.
Summary
The Aprilia SR 175 offers a blend of sporty design, improved performance, and advanced features at an attractive price point. With its new engine and updated technology, it aims to provide a dynamic riding experience for enthusiasts in India.
BMW S 1000 RR Surpasses 1,000 Sales Milestone in India
BMW Motorrad India has reached a significant achievement with the sale of over 1,000 units of its flagship superbike, the S 1000 RR, in the Indian market. The 1,000th unit was delivered to a customer in Delhi, marking a milestone that underscores the model's strong appeal among motorcycle enthusiasts in the country.
2025 BMW S 1000 RR: Enhanced Performance and Features
The 2025 iteration of the S 1000 RR brings several updates, including:
Updated Design: The 2025 model now features design elements that bring it closer in appearance to the M 1000 RR
Powertrain: It continues to be powered by a 999cc inline four-cylinder engine producing 210 hp at 13,750 rpm and 113 Nm of torque at 11,000 rpm.
Performance Metrics: The S 1000 RR boasts a top speed of 303 km/h and weighs approximately 197 kg
These enhancements contribute to its reputation as the most affordable full-blown European inline-four superbike available in India, undercutting competitors like the Ducati Panigale V4 and Aprilia RSV4 Factory.
Pricing and Variants
The 2025 BMW S 1000 RR is available in three variants:
Standard: ₹21.30 lakh (ex-showroom)
Pro: ₹23.80 lakh (ex-showroom)
Pro M Sport: ₹26.05 lakh (ex-showroom)
These pricing tiers make the S 1000 RR an attractive option for performance enthusiasts seeking a premium superbike experience.
Significance of the Milestone
Vikram Pawah, President and CEO of BMW Group India, described the S 1000 RR as "a symbol of precision engineering and absolute performance." He noted that this milestone reflects the motorcycle's popularity among Indian riders who seek high-performance vehicles for both road and track use.
The S 1000 RR's success in India highlights the growing demand for high-performance motorcycles and BMW Motorrad's expanding presence in the Indian premium motorcycle market.
VinFast VF6 and VF7 Bookings Open in India
VinFast Auto India has officially opened bookings for its premium electric SUVs, the VF6 and VF7, starting today, July 15, 2025. Customers can reserve their preferred model with a fully refundable booking amount of ₹21,000, either at VinFast showrooms or through the official website, VinFastAuto.in. The official launch is scheduled for August 2025, following the inauguration of VinFast's plant in Thoothukudi, Tamil Nadu.
VinFast VF6: Compact Electric SUV
Expected Price: ₹18–24 lakh (ex-showroom)
Battery: 59.6 kWh
Power Output: 201 bhp
Range: Up to 440 km (WLTP)
Variants: Earth and Wind
Features: Level 2 ADAS, panoramic sunroof, connected car technology, heads-up display, intuitive infotainment system
The VF6 is designed as a compact electric SUV, aiming to compete with models like the Hyundai Creta Electric and Tata Curvv EV.
VinFast VF7: Mid-Size Electric SUV
Expected Price: ₹30–35 lakh (ex-showroom)
Battery: 75.3 kWh
Power Output: 354 bhp (AWD variant)
Range: Over 450 km (WLTP)
Variants: Earth, Wind, and Sky
Features: 15-inch touchscreen, Level 2 ADAS, panoramic glass roof, wireless charging, signature LED lighting
The VF7 is positioned as a premium mid-size electric SUV, targeting competitors like the Hyundai Ioniq 5 and BYD Sealion 7.
Local Manufacturing and Dealer Network
Both the VF6 and VF7 will be assembled locally at VinFast's upcoming facility in Thoothukudi, Tamil Nadu, reinforcing the company's commitment to the Indian market. VinFast has partnered with 13 dealer groups to establish 32 dealerships across 27 cities, with plans to expand to 35 dealerships by the end of 2025.
Launch Timeline
Bookings Open: July 15, 2025
Official Launch: August 2025
Deliveries Begin: Post-launch, subject to regional logistics
Summary
VinFast's entry into the Indian electric vehicle market with the VF6 and VF7 models marks a significant step in the company's global expansion. With competitive pricing, advanced features, and a commitment to local manufacturing, VinFast aims to provide Indian consumers with premium electric SUV options tailored to local needs.
Tesla's Official Entry into India
Tesla has officially launched its operations in India with the inauguration of its first showroom in Mumbai's Bandra Kurla Complex (BKC) on July 15, 2025. This marks a significant milestone for the American electric vehicle (EV) manufacturer as it expands its global footprint into one of the world's largest automobile markets.
Tesla Model Y Launched in India
Tesla's first offering in the Indian market is the Model Y, which is available in two variants:
Model Y Rear-Wheel Drive (RWD): Priced at ₹59.89 lakh (ex-showroom) and ₹61.07 lakh (on-road).
Model Y Long Range Rear-Wheel Drive: Priced at ₹67.89 lakh (ex-showroom) and ₹69.14 lakh (on-road).
Both variants are equipped with advanced features such as a 15.4-inch central touchscreen, 15-speaker premium sound system, ventilated electric front seats, and advanced driver assistance systems (ADAS). The RWD variant offers an estimated range of 574 km, while the Long Range RWD variant offers a range of approximately 622 km.
Tesla Model 3 Expected Launch
The Tesla Model 3 is anticipated to launch in India in November 2026. While official pricing has not been announced, estimates suggest that the Model 3 could be priced between ₹70 lakh and ₹90 lakh, depending on the variant. This pricing positions the Model 3 in competition with other premium electric sedans in the Indian market.
Strategic Entry into the Indian Market
Tesla's entry into India is characterized by a premium pricing strategy, primarily due to high import duties on fully built units (CBUs). The company has opted to import vehicles from its Shanghai Gigafactory to maintain quality and control costs. This approach allows Tesla to test the Indian market's response before making significant investments in local manufacturing.
Future Prospects
Looking ahead, Tesla plans to expand its presence in India with additional showrooms in Delhi and Bengaluru. The company is also in discussions with the Indian government regarding potential local manufacturing to reduce costs and align with India's electric vehicle policies. This strategic move aims to increase EV adoption in India and position Tesla as a key player in the country's growing electric vehicle market.
