Fatafat Weekly car News: March F10 Highlights by aBTOTEX, 2025

The Indian automobile industry is in overdrive this week, with big in EVs, policy shifts, and groundbreaking new launches. Whether it's Tesla’s entry talks, Tata’s hydrogen push, or Delhi’s strict pollution control measures, a lot to unpack.

1. Tesla’s India Entry Moves Closer: U.S. Pushes for Zero Import Tariffs

Tesla’s long-awaited entry into India is inching closer, thanks to ongoing trade talks between the U.S. and India. The U.S. government is pushing for zero import tariffs on vehicles as part of a proposed trade deal. Currently, India imposes up to 110% tariffs on imported cars, making luxury EVs highly expensive.

While India is unlikely to remove tariffs completely, a gradual reduction is on the table. If this deal goes through, Tesla and other premium EVs could become much more affordable, intensifying competition in the Indian auto market.

2. Delhi Bans Refueling for Vehicles Older Than 10 Years

Starting March 31, 2025, petrol pumps in Delhi NCR will stop refueling vehicles older than 10 years as part of stricter anti-pollution measures. The policy, aimed at curbing emissions, is expected to impact nearly 3 million vehicles.

Car owners with affected vehicles have three options:

• Switch to EVs or CNG vehicles

• Opt for scrappage schemes

• Relocate their vehicle registration outside Delhi NCR

While this rule is a big step toward cleaner air, it may create chaos for thousands of car owners forced to scrap their old vehicles.

3. Tata Motors Proposes Hydrogen ICE in PLI Scheme

Tata Motors is advocating for Hydrogen Internal Combustion Engines (ICE) to be included in the Production-Linked Incentive (PLI) scheme. Unlike traditional EVs, Hydrogen ICE vehicles offer fast refueling, long-range capabilities, and minimal emissions.

If approved, Tata could lead India’s hydrogen revolution, particularly in commercial and heavy-duty vehicles. This move is crucial as India explores multiple green mobility solutions beyond just battery-powered EVs.

4. Maruti Suzuki’s First EV to Be Manufactured for Toyota

In a surprising turn, Maruti Suzuki’s first-ever electric car won’t be sold under its own brand but will be supplied to Toyota instead.

• Manufacturing begins in Spring 2025 at Maruti’s Gujarat plant.

• Toyota will rebadge and market the EV under its brand, boosting its EV portfolio in India.

• This partnership strengthens Toyota and Suzuki’s global EV collaboration.

This move allows Toyota to leverage Maruti’s low-cost manufacturing expertise while Maruti benefits from Toyota’s global EV tech.

5. Ultraviolette’s F99 Sets a New Speed Record – 258 km/h!

Indian startup Ultraviolette Automotive has redefined performance EVs with its latest achievement. Its electric superbike, F99, clocked a record-breaking 258 km/h at NATRAX, making it the fastest Indian electric motorcycle.

It also set a quarter-mile record (10.712 sec), proving that Indian-made EVs can be serious high-performance machines. With rising interest in electric two-wheelers, this could boost India’s position in the global EV market.

6. Tata Motors Announces High-Speed EV Charging Network

Tata Motors is rolling out Tata.ev Mega Charger, a nationwide ultra-fast EV charging network in collaboration with leading charging point operators.

• Strategically placed along highways and cities

• Compatible with multiple EV brands

• Reduces charging time drastically

This initiative will boost long-distance EV travel, making road trips easier for electric car owners and helping India’s charging infrastructure grow rapidly.

7. Bengaluru-Chennai Expressway Nears Completion – 2-Hour Travel Time!

The long-awaited Bengaluru-Chennai Expressway is almost ready and will cut travel time from 7-8 hours down to just 2-3 hours!

• The 262-km expressway will ease congestion and improve logistics.

• Faster routes for EVs will encourage more people to switch to electric cars.

• Reduced travel time will lower fuel costs and emissions.

This is a game-changer for both daily commuters and logistics companies, making road transport more efficient and sustainable.

8. Toyota Launches Hilux Black Edition in India

Toyota has launched a new premium edition of its rugged Hilux pickup truck, the Black Edition, priced at ₹37.90 lakh.

Key highlights:

• Blacked-out grille, alloy wheels, and interior

• Retains the 2.8L turbo-diesel engine with 6-speed automatic transmission

• More aggressive and sporty appeal

The Hilux is already known for its off-road prowess, and this new edition enhances its bold, rugged design.

9. Bharat NCAP 2.0 to Test ADAS Features for Indian Roads

India’s Bharat NCAP 2.0 crash safety program is upgrading its safety tests to include ADAS (Advanced Driver Assistance Systems).

This means new cars will now be tested for:

• Automatic Emergency Braking (AEB)

• Lane Keep Assist

• Adaptive Cruise Control

This move will push automakers to enhance safety features, ensuring Indian roads get smarter and safer cars in the future.

10. Tata Motors to Set Up New Car Plant in Ranipet, Tamil Nadu

Tata Motors has announced a new automobile plant in Ranipet SIPCOT Estate, Tamil Nadu, focusing on:

• Luxury, sports, electric, and ICE vehicles

• Manufacturing for Jaguar Land Rover

• Boosting employment and local auto manufacturing

This plant will strengthen India’s position as a global auto manufacturing hub, bringing more investment and job opportunities.

Final Take: India’s Auto Industry is at an Exciting Crossroads!

Key takeaways

1. Tesla leases Mumbai showroom, eyes India market entry.

2. Suzuki unveils e Vitara, its first electric SUV.

3. Maruti Suzuki's stock declines amid market fluctuations.

4. Mercedes-Benz expands into smaller Indian cities.

5. Reliance seeks extension for EV battery plant setup.

6. Ola Electric misses battery plant deadline, faces scrutiny.

From groundbreaking speed records to game-changing policies, the future of Indian automobiles is more exciting than ever.

📢 What’s your take on these updates? Let us know in the comments!

🚗 Stay tuned for next week’s Fatafat Car News – only on aBTOTEX!

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