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Ola Electric to lay off 5 percent of employees

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Ola Electric has announced that approximately 5 percent of its workforce will be impacted as part of what the company describes as an “ongoing structural transformation” aimed at increasing automation across its front-end operations. Ola cites automation and cost reduction as key drivers Sales dropped 51 percent in 2025 compared to 2024 Market share more than halved to 15.57 percent Ola Electric workforce reduction and market challenges The company has not specified how many employees will be affected While Ola Electric has not clarified which departments will be most affected by the layoffs, the move raises concerns given the company’s already strained position. Over the past year, Ola Electric has been steadily losing market share in the electric two-wheeler segment. In 2025, the company’s sales dropped sharply to 1,99,316 units, down 51 percent from 4,07,700 units in 2024. As a result, Ola’s market share has more than halved – from 35 percent to 15.57 percent – pushing it ...

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Tata Sierra real world fuel economy tested, explained

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The new Tata Sierra has been drawing plenty of attention for its standout design and smart packaging. Adding to its appeal is a wide range of powertrain options – petrol, turbo-petrol and diesel, spread across a broad price band of Rs 11.49 lakh to Rs 21.29 lakh (ex-showroom). This article focuses on fuel efficiency, based on real-world testing of the diesel-automatic variant. Diesel-auto gets two drive modes: City and Sport Misses auto engine stop-start Tata Sierra diesel-automatic real world mileage test Sierra diesel-AT has an average real world mileage of 13.05kpl. The Sierra diesel-automatic offers two drive modes – City and Sport – but misses out on features such as an Economy mode and an automatic engine stop-start system. Power comes from a 1.5-litre diesel engine producing 118hp and 280Nm. This is the same unit seen in the Nexon, though output has been increased by 2hp and 20Nm. Another key difference is the transmission – the Sierra uses a 6-speed torque-converte...

Honda files patent for electric commuter motorcycle

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Honda’s entry into our electric two-wheeler market has been measured so far, with products like the Activa e: and QC1 highlighting both the brand’s intent and some early limitations. That said, the Japanese manufacturer continues to work on a wider range of electric offerings, and recent patent filings that have surfaced online point to a new electric motorcycle aimed at the entry-level commuter segment. Uses simple backbone frame with conventional components Features two removable battery packs Honda electric motorcycle: All we know so far Features commuter styling and hardware At first glance, the patent images reveal a motorcycle designed with simplicity as a core principle. The bike features drum brakes at both ends, a conventional telescopic front fork, and twin rear shock absorbers, all built around what appears to be a basic backbone frame. The overall silhouette, along with elements like the round headlamp, is reminiscent of older Honda commuter motorcycles from its ear...

TVS iQube tops January 2026 electric scooter sales

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Carrying on its strong performance of 2025, when it sold nearly 3 lakh units, electric two-wheeler market leader TVS Motor Company has opened 2026 on a resoundingly strong note. TVS: 34,440 units As per the latest Vahan retail sales data, the Hosur-based manufacturer delivered 34,440 units in January 2026, a handsome 43 percent year-on-year (YoY) increase (January 2025: 24,027 units). In the process, TVS accounted for 28 percent of the 1,22,477 electric two-wheelers sold in India last month. January 2026 is now the company’s best-ever monthly retail score since it entered the market in January 2020. It is also the fourth instance of 30,000-plus retails. The other three months are October 2024 (30,240 units), March 2025 (30,772 units) and November 2025 (30,584 units). Given the robust customer demand for its e-scooters, TVS is exploring expansion of its e-2W manufacturing capacity . The company currently produces around 30,000 iQubes a month, while Orbiter production is nearing th...

Autocar India Modern Classic Rally 2026: A showcase led by Ratan Tata’s cars

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The fourth edition of the Autocar India Modern Classic Rally concluded at the Grand Hyatt Mumbai, featuring its largest-ever display and a strong public turnout. Over 140 modern classic cars took part this year, spanning the 1970s to the 2010s, before coming together for a celebratory drive through the streets of Mumbai. A major highlight of this year’s rally was a special display of cars from the late Ratan Tata’s personal collection, including his Ferrari California and Chevrolet Corvette C4. The wider showcase was equally strong, with standout modern classics such as the Ferrari 458 Speciale Aperta, Dodge Viper and Mercedes-Benz SLS AMG. A showcase of modern classic icons Ratan Tata’s collection leads a landmark display at the 2026 rally Like previous editions, the Autocar India Modern Classic Rally 2026 showcased a wide spectrum of significant modern classic cars. Among the standout displays was a special showcase of four cars from the late Ratan Tata’s personal collection, l...

TVS Orbiter: 3 reasons to buy and 2 to skip it

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The TVS Orbiter is the latest addition to TVS's electric scooter lineup, positioned as a balance between practicality, connectivity and comfort. It uses the same 3.1kWh battery as the iQube but with a motor tuned for riding range over performance. If you're considering the Orbiter, here's what works in its favour and a couple of reasons it might not be the best option. Reasons to buy the TVS Orbiter Unique styling and practical features The Orbiter has a unique design with angular, boxy styling and a flat seat. Features like the DRL strip across the front apron with integrated turn signals further distinguish it from several scooters in our market. In terms of practicality, the Orbiter offers 34 litres of underseat storage that easily accommodates two half-face helmets. There's also a front cubbyhole and a USB port under the dash, making it practical for daily errands and commutes. Good riding range with conservative riding If you're easy with the throttle, ...

Mercedes-AMG CLE Mythos with V8 teased

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Photos of a Mercedes-Benz coupe prototype wrapped in camouflage and ripping through the snow-blanketed landscape of Sweden have been released by the German marque. Mercedes confirmed in a press release that the car being tested is based on the CLE . It also stated that this will be the second model belonging to the exclusive Mythos series – first being the limited-run SL Roadster-based PureSpeed in 2024. With its uncanny resemblance to the CLE 53 Coupe , this is likely a new AMG V8-powered CLE. Upcoming CLE to be part of the brand’s limited-run Mythos series 4.0-litre twin-turbo V8 expected under the bonnet Global reveal likely in H2 2026 Mercedes-AMG CLE Coupe Mythos expected powertrain CLE Mythos likely to use the flat-plane V8 seen in the new S-Class. The upcoming Mercedes-AMG CLE Coupe will come with a “powerful drivetrain and performance”, the brand stated in its press release. Where the PureSpeed arrived with a 585hp twin-turbo V8, the existing CLE 53 AMG makes 450hp ...

New Renault Duster hybrid vs midsize cars spec comparison

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The new Renault Duster has been revealed with a strong hybrid powertrain option, a first for the nameplate in India. The latest from Renault competes in the midsize SUV space, where only the Maruti Grand Vitara , Maruti Victoris and Toyota Hyryder currently offer a hybrid choice. Honda does not offer a hybrid setup with the Elevate at the moment, though the City midsize sedan has been equipped with one. But how do these vehicles stack up on paper when it comes to specifications? Let's find out. Renault Duster hybrid spec comparison Duster has the highest power output Renault Duster hybrid specs vs Grand Vitara, Victoris, Hyryder and City e:HEV    Hybrid system Combined power Combined torque Transmission Mileage Battery size | Voltage Duster 1.8L 4cyl + e-motor 160hp 172Nm 8-speed multi-mode Not available 1.4kWh | 280V Grand Vitara 1.5L 3cyl + e-motor 116hp 141Nm eCVT 27.97kpl 0.76kWh | 177.6V Victoris 1.5L 3cyl + e-motor 116hp 141...

5 Things to know before buying the 2026 Kawasaki Z650RS

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The Kawasaki Z650RS combines retro style with modern technology. Kawasaki have given it styling elements like a classic round LED headlight, analogue dials, 70’s influenced bodywork and paint scheme, plus a twin-cylinder engine, to create a stunning neo-retro motorcycle. What engine does the Kawasaki Z650RS use and what are the power figures? The bike shares its engine with the Z650 which is a 649cc, twin-cylinder, liquid-cooled engine producing 68hp at 8,000rpm and a peak torque of 62.1Nm at 6,700rpm. This motor is paired with a six-speed gearbox and also gets a slip and assist clutch. What is the fuel tank capacity, kerb weight and seat height of the Kawasaki Z650RS? The bike has a fuel tank capacity of 12 litres and a kerb weight of 192kg. The seat height stands at 800mm. What features does the Kawasaki Z650RS get? The bike gets twin analogue dials for the speedometer and rev counter with an integrated LCD display. It features a round LED headlight, 2-level Traction Contr...

Vespa 946 horse edition scooter revealed

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Over the years, Vespa has produced many special edition models based on its 946 scooter, some in conjunction with the Chinese Zodiac signs for each calendar year. 2026 being the year of the horse, the Italian scooter maker has revealed a special Vespa 946 Horse. Vespa 946 Horse is has gloss and matte brown bodywork Some aesthetic accessories also available Limited edition scooter likely to be built in small numbers, exact units not specified Previously, Vespa’s Lunar Collection has included special edition models paying tribute to symbols of years gone by - Dragon and Snake, namely. Since 2026 is the year of the horse, what Vespa has done is revealed a special edition that it claims embodies some traits of that animal - regal, dynamic and a symbol of resilience - to quote the company. The Vespa 946 Horse edition is distinguished by its bay color, a deep brown shade that the company says ‘recalls the glossy, dark coat of the horse.’ The steel bodywork - a Vespa trademark - ha...

KTM 390 Enduro R: 3 reasons to buy and 2 to skip it

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The KTM 390 Enduro R is based on the same 390 Adventure platform, but gets a sleek-looking front end, leaner body panels, a 9-litre fuel tank, and a flatter rally-style seat. Compared to the 21-inch and 17-inch wheel setup on the KTM 390 Adventure , this gets a 21-inch front and an 18-inch rear spoked wheel. Here are 3 reasons why you should consider the KTM 390 Enduro R Powerful, liquid-cooled, engine It uses a 399cc, liquid-cooled, single cylinder engine putting out 46hp at 8,500 rpm and 39Nm of peak torque at 6,500 rpm. It offers potent performance with a 48-tooth rear sprocket and on the road, this is a nice engine with plenty of power once it revs past 6,000rpm. It has has good highway cruising abilities and can sit at triple digit speeds with very low effort. It also gets a quickshifter as standard, enhancing the riding experience. Feature packed The bike gets a neat and compact TFT display which is informative and easily visible even under harsh sunlight. It also feature...

Top 5 midsize SUVs: Most features on a base variant

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While mid-spec trims remain the most popular choice for new car buyers, striking a balance between features and affordability, base models often get overlooked due to their reputation for being under-equipped. Yet this perception doesn't always hold. Several mid-size SUVs deliver impressively well-appointed base trims that include essential safety tech and feature an infotainment system with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, a sunroof, and a rear seat armrest, without requiring an upgrade to a higher trim level. We rank the five best-equipped base trims in the mid-size SUV segment, listed in ascending order. Interestingly, some of these models aren't as popular compared to better-selling rivals, but they more than compensate with generous standard features right from the entry point.  5. Volkswagen Taigun Comfortline Gets basic safety tech and an infotainment system with six speakers Taigun Topline trim used for representation In its base Comfortline trim, the Volkswagen T...

7 things to know before buying a KTM 390 Adventure R

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KTM India has launched the hardcore, off-road-focused 390 Adventure R in the country. This variant is the most off-road-capable model in the 390 Adventure line-up, featuring long-travel suspension, larger wheels and enhanced ground clearance. If you’re considering one, here are answers to some of the most frequently asked questions. What is the engine capacity and power output of the KTM 390 Adventure R? The KTM 390 Adventure R is powered by the same 399cc single-cylinder liquid-cooled engine as the standard 390 Adventure. This motor produces 46hp at 8,500rpm and 39Nm of torque at 6,500rpm, mated to a 6-speed gearbox. The bike also comes standard with a bidirectional quickshifter. What is the seat height of the KTM 390 Adventure R? The KTM 390 Adventure R has a seat height of 880mm, which is notably taller than the standard 390 Adventure. This increased height is a result of the longer-travel suspension and is aimed at providing better ground clearance for serious off-road riding....

Volvo planning new three-row hybrid SUV to sit above XC90

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With demand for large SUVs growing in several international markets, Swedish automaker Volvo is now mulling over an all-new three-row hybrid SUV. In a conversation with Autocar UK, brand boss Hakan Samuelsson said that while Volvo has “still not made any decision on going there, bigger SUVs are something we're looking into.” That said, what do we know thus far about this potentially new Volvo SUV? Let us find out. The new model could be based on either a Volvo or a Geely platform US and China to be the primary markets for this flagship SUV Volvo three-row SUV expected details The new flagship would be larger than existing Volvo SUVs. If Volvo were to go ahead with it, the new SUV is likely to be larger than the XC90 and EX90. For reference, the Volvo XC90 that is available in India measures about 4.95 metres in length, while the Volvo EX90 electric SUV sold in markets such as the US is just over 5 metres long. Volvo could look towards China’s Geely Group, perhaps at its ...

Mercedes CEO absolutely convinced about India's potential, FTA could tweak plans

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On the sidelines of the 2026 S-Class facelift’s reveal, Mercedes global CEO Ola Källenius said he is absolutely convinced that about the scale of its future in India. In response to a query from Autocar India, Källenius also acknowledged that the India-EU FTA could change things in local production plans. “India is a growth market, so whatever happens, we are going to grow and continue to invest in the country,” he said. Mercedes currently locally assembles over 10 model lines in India Mercedes India R&D centre’s inputs incorporated in the 2026 S-Class India input in 2026 Mercedes S-Class facelift  Mercedes’s Bengaluru R&D centre is the brand’s largest outside Europe. Currently Mercedes-Benz India produces the A-Class , C-Class , E-Class , S-Class, GLA , GLC , GLE and GLS at its plant in Pune (and even the AMG C 43, Maybach S 580, all EQ models) and while details of the FTA are yet to be fully revealed it could change plans for which models are produc...