Nissan Unveils All-New, All-Electric Juke

Nissan has unveiled the all-new, all-electric Juke at its Vision event at the company’s global headquarters in Japan, marking a major step forward in its electrification strategy in Europe. As the region’s electric vehicle (EV) market continues to grow, Nissan is building on its 15 years of EV leadership to meet an array of customer needs while navigating a complex and competitive market environment.

Agile, compact, and unmistakably Nissan, this first-ever EV Juke carries personality and emotion into the EV era, reimagining one of Europe’s most distinctive compact crossovers. It forms part of Nissan’s broader strategy to offer an electrified powertrain for every type of customer today.

Since its original launch in 2010, Juke has captured the imagination of 1.5M customers across Europe, reshaping the compact crossover segment with its daring and unconventional design. The new Juke retains that character while introducing a fully electric powertrain, supporting Nissan’s journey towards to zero-emission mobility.

The all-electric Juke joins a growing European EV line-up including the new Micra, third-generation Leaf, Ariya crossover and Townstar LCV, as well as a new A-segment EV to come. The Juke EV will join the third-generation Leaf in offering Vehicle-to-Grid technology, supporting the integration of EVs into the wider energy ecosystem.

Alongside its expanding EV line-up, Nissan continues to offer its e‑POWER hybrid technology, delivering an EV-like driving experience without the need to plug in. Hybrid models such as Qashqai e‑POWER and Juke HEV will remain an important part of the line-up, ensuring customers have access to technologies that suit their needs today.

“Europe is central to Nissan’s electrification strategy, and we remain firmly committed to a fully electric future,” said Massimiliano Messina, Chairman, Nissan AMIEO. “With a rapidly expanding EV line-up, we are bringing greater choice and innovation to every segment, powered by our strong design, engineering and manufacturing footprint in the region. Together, this next generation of vehicles will accelerate our transition to zero-emission mobility.”

The all-new, all-electric Juke will be built at Nissan’s Sunderland Plant in the UK, reinforcing the site’s central role in the company’s global EV strategy. Already home to Leaf and with the first trial phase of Juke production starting in the coming weeks, Sunderland Plant remains the cornerstone of Nissan’s electrified manufacturing footprint in Europe.

The commitment is supported by Nissan’s broader regional capabilities, including its design, engineering and development network across the UK, Spain and Germany. Together, these operations underline Nissan’s long-term investment in Europe as both a production and innovation hub – designing, engineering and manufacturing vehicles in Europe, for European customers.

“JUKE has always stood for bold design and a willingness to challenge convention. With this third generation, we are bringing that spirit into the electric age,” said Clíodhna Lyons, Region Vice President, Product, Brand & Marketing Strategy, Nissan AMIEO. “As our first fully electric JUKE, it will help us reach new customers while expanding choice across our electrified range.”

Priyanka Chopra Jonas Revealed As Brand Ambassador For Bentley In New Campaign

Bentley Motors has revealed Priyanka Chopra Jonas as a global brand ambassador, marking a new collaboration with the internationally recognized actor and producer. The announcement is accompanied by a new campaign, launched last weekend, with a complementary film due to be premiered in the coming weeks, in which Priyanka speaks candidly to camera about her life, career and creative outlook, alongside a suite of photography.

Priyanka joins Bentley’s growing roster of global ambassadors, including Co-Creative Directors Greg Williams and Mai Ikuzawa, who were appointed by the brand in September last year.

Priyanka’s diverse body of work has captivated global audiences for nearly 25 years. Priyanka is an acclaimed member of the global film industry, a producer, New York Times best-selling author, entrepreneur and investor. As a UNICEF Goodwill Ambassador, she is known for her advocacy on education and children’s welfare, using her platform as a global icon for tangible change.

Shot in an authentic, documentary style, the new film captures an intimate, conversational exchange between Priyanka and Greg, offering a more personal insight into her life and creative outlook. Filmed at Sony Studios, Los Angeles, Priyanka voices her love for being on set and the creative magic that can occur during a day’s work as a performer and producer, with a Bentley Continental GT subtly integrated throughout.

Priyanka says, “I’ve always been drawn to Bentley’s commitment to craftsmanship and storytelling, because there’s an intentionality behind every detail that feels rare. As someone who lives for the creative energy of being on set, this collaboration felt instinctive. It’s about shared values, but also about a shared appreciation for the process behind what we create.”

Ben Whattam, Marketing Director for Bentley Motors, reflects, “Priyanka brings a fresh energy and authentic perspective that aligns with Bentley. The film’s relaxed style allows her voice and personality to come through naturally, creating something more authentic than traditional advertising.”

Nissan Motor India Marks Major Network Expansion With 54 New Customer Touchpoints in Q1 of CY 2026

In a historic multi-city retail expansion initiative, Nissan Motor India Pvt. Ltd. (NMIPL) today announced the opening of 54 new customer touchpoints across the country in CY Q1 2026, marking a significant milestone in the company’s growth journey in India.

This Network expansion is a key pillar of Nissan Motor India’s product offensive strategy and reflects the company strengthening its presence across the country. The newly opened touchpoints comprise a mix of 3S (Sales, Service and Spare Parts), 2S and 1S facilities, strategically located across India, further deepening Nissan’s footprint.

Mr. Saurabh Vatsa, Managing Director, Nissan Motor India, added, “The opening of 54 new customer touchpoints across India in Q1 2026 marks an important milestone in Nissan’s growth journey in India. As we strengthen our product portfolio with the launch of the All-New Nissan GRAVITE, soon to be launched All-New Nissan TEKTON & C-SUV 7-seater along with our popular New Nissan MAGNITE; network expansion continues to be a critical pillar of our strategy. This growth underlines our commitment to improving accessibility, enhancing customer reach, brand experience while progressing towards our goal of 400 touchpoints by the end of FY 27.”

The new facilities feature modern infrastructure designed in line with Nissan’s global retail standards and are staffed by trained sales and service professionals delivering world class customer experience.

The expansion comes at a pivotal time as Nissan is building strong momentum in the Indian market. In March 2026, Nissan delivered a strong performance with cumulative sales of 10,388 units, including domestic wholesales of 4,408 units—its highest monthly domestic wholesale in the last five years, registering a robust 98% growth. Exports contributed 5,980 units during the month. This performance underscores the growing momentum of Nissan’s India strategy, driven by a strengthened product portfolio and an expanding network footprint. The continued success of the New Nissan Magnite has laid a strong foundation for growth, while the launch of the All-New Nissan Gravite further strengthens the brand’s presence across key segments.

Nissan is reinforcing its long-term commitment to the Indian market through sustained investments in Network development and customer-centric initiatives aimed at delivering greater value to discerning Indian customers.

Continental Tires India Announces Leadership Change

Continental Tires has announced the appointment of Nevin Aslan-Özkan as the Managing Director of Continental Tires India, effective April 6, 2026. She succeeds Samir Gupta, who stepped down from his position on April 5, 2026 for personal reasons.

Nevin joined Continental in 2017 and held various leadership positions in EMEA and APAC in Mergers & Acquisitions and Strategy & Business Development. Since May 2025, she has served as Chief Financial Officer for Continental Tires India, steering the company’s financial strategy and performance. In her new capacity, she will lead Continental’s growth agenda in India, with a strategic focus on accelerating the company’s presence in the passenger vehicle segment.

Samir, who has been with Continental since 2012 and served as Managing Director since January 2022, is recognised for his leadership and contribution to expanding the brand’s footprint in India.

The announcement comes at a pivotal time for Continental Tires India. In the last quarter, the company launched CrossContact A/T² during Track Day 2026 to Make Way for Confidence for Indian SUV and 4X4 drivers. India is the first market globally to introduce the CrossContact A/T², underscoring Continental’s strong commitment to the Indian market. Recently, the company announced an investment of EUR 10.5 million (approximately INR 100 crores) in the Indian market to further strengthen its position in the passenger vehicle segment, with a particular focus on the UUHP segment, in alignment with the evolving car parc.

Commenting on her appointment, Nevin Aslan-Özkan said, “India continues to be a strong focus market for Continental Tires. Guided by our ‘In the Market, For the Market’ approach, we will continue to deliver products &technologies designed for Indian roads. I look forward to addressing the evolving expectations of Indian consumers and driving the company’s next phase of growth.”

New Skoda Kushaq Launched In India

Škoda Auto India has launched the new Kushaq with ex-showroom prices starting at INR 10.69 lakhs. The new Kushaq redefines value, safety, dynamics and furthering its strategy of democratising European technology. The Kushaq is the brand’s first car under the India 2.0 strategy and has driven the company’s growth surge in India. With segment-first technologies like an all-new eight-speed torque converter automatic transmission, Rear Seat Massage function, and numerous all-new features and standard equipment, the new Kushaq follows Škoda Auto India’s strategy of making European engineering more accessible on Indian roads.

Klaus Zellmer, CEO of Škoda Auto, said, “The updated Kushaq reinforces the importance of India as the springboard for Škoda Auto’s strategy to grow our international markets. The Kushaq has rapidly established itself with customers in India and as an export to ASEAN and the Middle East. Now we are setting the next benchmark for the model’s overall value proposition. This update incorporates Modern Solid design elements as well as a broad range of advances from the infotainment and driver assistance features, offering even greater comfort and safety. Together with the Kodiaq and the Kylaq, Škoda Auto offers an SUV fleet on the Indian market that caters to significant segments and price points. Taking the Kushaq to the next level creates the opportunity for additional demand and further growth in our most important market outside Europe.”

Ashish Gupta, Brand Director, Škoda Auto India, said, “At Škoda, our mission is to democratise European technology and make it more accessible to customers across India. Today, boundary lines between cities and regions are blurring, and aspirations are merging. We are meeting these aspirations by launching products that cater to these evolving customer preferences. With the premiere of the new Kushaq today, we further build our legacy of having a class-leading range of ‘real automatics’ across our portfolio, offering an SUV that comes with the most important safety, comfort, design and convenience features as standard, led by our proven European engineering. We are constantly listening to our customers, and the new Kushaq is another step in keeping our portfolio modern and relevant for our growing Škoda family.”

Easy to Love. Made in India, for India

Debuting in 2021, the Kushaq, a name derived from the Sanskrit word for Emperor, was Škoda Auto’s first-ever product in the Indian market under the India 2.0 strategy. It was the first car on the MQB-A0-IN platform that was developed by teams in India and the Czech Republic with an eye on accessible ownership and maintenance costs. The new Kushaq continues the legacy with multiple new segment-first features, while also carrying forward all the practical features from its predecessor, such as electric front seats with ventilation, cruise control, rear-view camera with sensors, wireless charging, among others. Counting itself among the early Škoda SUVs in the Indian market, the Kushaq today complements the Kodiaq and the Kylaq. With this, Škoda Auto India has a fleet of SUVs that caters to every aspiration and price point.

Easy to flaunt with Modern Solid design cues. Led by the Monte Carlo Badge

The Kushaq now comes with an all-new front grille, housing chrome ribs and an Illuminated Light Band. The front also gets all-new LED headlights, front parking sensors, and LED fog lamps. The rear features new connected taillights with sequential turn indicators. A standout visual cue at the rear is the Illuminated ‘Škoda’ lettering bridging the connected taillights. The sides of the Kushaq have solid, clean lines with cladding around the wheel arches and sills. Alloy wheels are standard across all variants, lending the car a sporty profile and a dynamic on-road stance. The Kushaq’s SUV character is retained in this update, and the Modern Solid cues ensure its style endures through time, making it a butch, yet appealing machine on the road or off it. The SUV will now be available in three all-new colours – Shimla Green, Steel Grey, and Cherry Red, along with existing options of Candy White, Carbon Steel, Brilliant Silver, Lava Blue, and Deep Black. In a first, the Monte Carlo badge will be offered right from the start of sales, in keeping with the growing demand for this variant, upping the style quotient.

Easy to drive with a range of real automatics

Retaining its incredible driving characteristics and 188 mm of max ground clearance, the new Kushaq maintains its high-speed manners with the ability to take the beaten track. It is equipped with a segment-first all-new eight-speed torque converter automatic. This transmission is mated to the efficient, powerful and proven 1.0 TSI engine putting out 85kW and 178Nm of torque. This engine can also be had with a six-speed manual. Those keener on performance can opt for the 1.5 TSI engine with 110kW and 250Nm of torque. This four-cylinder turbo with Active Cylinder Technology is mated exclusively to the quick-shifting seven-speed DSG transmission. In the new Kushaq, the 1.5 TSI also gets disc brakes on all wheels. With this, Škoda Auto India continues its strategy of providing real automatics with the introduction of the path-breaking eight-speed torque converter and the proven 7-speed DSG.

Easy on the Experience

Throwing light on the interiors of the new Kushaq is an all-new Panoramic Sunroof stretching across the vehicle, and dual-colour ambient lighting. The new Kushaq carries forward six-way electric seats with ventilation for the driver and front passenger, along with a Škoda sound system featuring six speakers and a subwoofer for an immersive in-cabin experience. It offers a generous boot space of 491 litres, expandable to 1,405 litres, enhancing everyday practicality. Climatronic Auto AC is now standard, as are an electric sunroof, auto-dimming IRVMs, rain-sensing wipers, a rear wiper, rear defoggers, and over 25 safety features. The experience continues for the driver with a 10.25-inch (26.03 cm) Digital Cockpit in the higher variants. Mid variants of the new Kushaq get an 8-inch (20.32 cm) Digital Cockpit, enabling enhanced driving information.

AI Assistant powered by Google Cloud

The new Kushaq also comes with a 10.1-inch (25.6 cm) infotainment screen, with wireless Android Auto and Apple CarPlay, modernised by a next-generation infotainment system, delivering a transformative in-car digital experience powered by state-of-the-art technology for Indian consumers. Built on advanced digital architecture, the new system enhances performance, connectivity, and intuitive customer interaction, delivering a seamless and engaging in-cabin experience tailored to modern Indian driving needs.

At its core is an advanced Voice Assistant, powered by Google Cloud’s Automotive AI Agent. This AI agent brings Gemini into the vehicle to create a next-generation, context-aware voice assistance for our customers, bringing drivers and passengers direct access to real-time information such as news and trends, while also enabling hands-free operation to manage music, calls, climate control and more. Developed with a deep understanding of local needs, the infotainment system recognises Indian English accents, ensuring inclusive and intuitive voice interactions. With this, the brand combines global technology with local relevance and sets new benchmarks for smarter driving in India.

Easy to Trust

The new Kushaq continues with safety as a priority, ensuring every customer is assured of its five-star Global NCAP standards. It has over 25 active and passive safety features as standard across variants, including six airbags, and over 40 safety features in higher variants. Škoda Auto India has also ensured all-weather visibility and safety by providing key features like rear wiper, rear defoggers, automatic rain-sensing wipers, and auto-dimming IRVM as standard across variants in the new Kushaq. With this, Škoda Auto India has engineered active safety, passive safety and preventive safety by ensuring the driver enjoys optimum vision and minimal visual stress across all conditions and weather.

Easy to Own: Škoda Super Care package

The new Kushaq continues with Škoda Auto India’s ethos of providing a seamless ownership experience. It now comes with the Škoda Super Care package: best-in-class standard 4-year or 100,000-kilometre warranty, along with 4 years of Roadside Assistance, offering long-term peace of mind. In addition, customers benefit from four free labour services for up to two years or 30,000 kilometres. The warranty can be extended by another two years, taking total coverage up to six years. This is further complemented by a six-year corrosion warranty and a three-year paint warranty.

Yamaha Hosts First-Ever ‘Mega Mileage Challenge’ For FZ-S Fi Hybrid Motorcycle In Kolkata

India Yamaha Motor (IYM) Pvt. Ltd. hosted the Mega Mileage Challenge in Kolkata for the FZ-S Fi Hybrid motorcycle. The event aimed at educating customers about the impressive fuel efficiency delivered by the FZ-S Fi Hybrid’s Smart Motor Generator (SMG) Technology and its benefits. Organized in collaboration with authorized dealerships – Banyan Tree Automobiles, ATC Electronics Pvt. Ltd., Tanushka Auto, and Velocity Motors – the challenge witnessed enthusiastic participation from Yamaha customers, along with their family members who eagerly joined the experience.

The Smart Motor Generator (SMG) and Stop & Start System (SSS), optimizes fuel economy and as a result, also reduces emissions. These systems ensure quieter starts, electric-assisted torque for exhilarating acceleration, and engine shutdown during idle, ultimately conserving fuel. This hybrid innovation allows riders to enjoy longer journeys with cost savings and a reduced environmental footprint, making it an ideal choice for eco-conscious riders seeking high performance and efficiency.

Kicking off the challenge, Yamaha FZ-S Fi Hybrid motorcycles were fueled up before embarking on a dedicated route of approximately 25 kilometres starting from Vedic Village Resort and return to the same point. The route covered varied riding conditions, including city roads, urban traffic, and open stretches. This gave participants a first-hand opportunity to evaluate the bike’s suspension, maneuverability, braking, acceleration, and initial pick-up. After completing the ride and returning to the venue, the bikes were refueled to their original level, and fuel consumption was recorded to calculate mileage. As part of the engagement, Yamaha experts also shared insights on effective riding techniques and maintenance practices to ensure better mileage.

Given below are the top 5 winners who were presented with trophies and certificates in appreciation of their accomplishments:

1st – Sharnadip Paul – 128.3 KMPL

2nd – Somenath Ghosh – 116.9 KMPL

3rd – Soumendra Nath Halder – 112.2 KMPL

4th – Reyaz Ahmed – 109.5 KMPL

5th – Abhishek Bhadra -108.6 KMPL

Photographs by Sourish Meryson

The EIMG Heritage Vehicle Season 2025-26 Shines Spotlight On Preserving Our Motoring Legacy

Eastern India Motoring Group (EIMG) kicked off the Heritage Vehicle Season 2025-26 with its Annual Dinner on Saturday, October 11, 2025. Similar to the past few years, The Calcutta Racket Club was chosen as the venue for the annual gala. Founded in 1793, The Calcutta Racket Club is one of the oldest squash clubs in the world, and the first in the subcontinent along with being one of the oldest Clubs of any kind in India, making it a perfect choice for the EIMG season opener. Around 85 EIMG members were present at the event. EIMG Founder & President Mr. Shrivardhan Kanoria delivered the inaugural address and extended a warm welcome to all the EIMG members present. This was followed by the introduction of the EIMG Committee comprising Mr. Swapan Kumar Lahiri (Governor), Mr. Avik Naha (Vice President), Mr. Shubhajit Kumar (Secretary), Mr. Sumit Periwal (Treasurer) and Mr. Joydip Sur (Press Attaché). Later, EIMG Secretary Mr. Shubhajit Kumar announced the pipeline of events planned by EIMG for the upcoming heritage vehicle season. The evening concluded with delicious dinner, cocktails and some great music by Greg Francis.

The sky was bright and clear. Winter had already tiptoed into Kolkata bringing the mercury down significantly. As members of Eastern India Motoring Group (EIMG) made their way with their heritage vehicles to the Calcutta Rowing Club the morning of Sunday, November 30, 2025, little did they know that this day was going to turn into a very special experience wrapped with compassion and love. For the very first time, EIMG joined hands with OFFER to organise a unique heritage convoy drive from Calcutta Rowing Club (CRC) to Anandaghar in Gobindapur called ‘EIMG Legacy on Wheels’ with the objective to raise social awareness about children living with HIV and also mark the inauguration of a new unit at Anandaghar which provides care and protection to orphan and young adults living with HIV and strives for successful integration of youth in the mainstream society. Around 40 heritage cars and bikes took part in this unique convoy drive. What really stood out is that many of the children who are being currently supported by OFFER not only got an opportunity to see these heritage beauties from up close, but some of them also got a joy ride in these vintage and classic vehicles from CRC to Anadaghar. A very special memory to cherish for the children and EIMG members alike.

Now in its fifth year, the EIMG Vintage Car Fiesta 2025 was presented by Club De Golf and organised by Eastern India Motoring Group. The line up for the EIMG Vintage Car Fiesta 2025 included as many as 35 rare heritage four wheelers. The Club De Golf is located inside the picturesque New Town Golf Club, where the heritage vehicles were displayed for a vintage rendezvous with their Club members and visitors. Later in the afternoon, the thanksgiving ceremony was followed by a beer luncheon that was enjoyed by all the members. A fascinating auto quiz and trivia session made all the EIMGians put on their thinking cap. It was brilliantly organized by quiz master Somen Sengupta and trivia narrator Sanjib Sarkar which proved to be a great learning experience for everyone present as many unknown trivia and facts about cars and Kolkata were revealed.

On Sunday, December 28, Calcutta Cricket and Football Club (CC&FC) set up a special date with heritage motoring. This winter Sunday morning was made even more charming with the presence of 35 fabulous heritage vehicles, owned by Eastern India Motoring Group (EIMG) members, that were showcased at the CCFC – EIMG Vintage Car Display 2025. The CC&CC members and their guests were in for a visual treat as the selection of cars on display made their jaws drop in awe and admiration. This was the first time CC&FC joined hands with EIMG for curating this special heritage vehicle display and hopefully this will pave the path for this tradition to follow in the years to come. A thanksgiving ceremony followed by a sumptuous beer luncheon wrapped up the last Sunday afternoon of 2025 in great style and elegance.

Eastern India Motoring Group (EIMG) jointly with Kolkata Automotive Sports Association (KASA), organized the EIMG Indian Heritage Rally 2026, for the third consecutive year. Around 27 Indian heritage cars participated in this rally making this the biggest event of its kind. The event also received multiple entries from All Lady Teams. The EIMG Indian Heritage Rally 2026 was flagged off from the Town Hall on Sunday, January 4, 2026 at 10.00 AM. Mr. Debasish Kumar, Honourable MLA & a member of Mayor-in-Council (Kolkata Municipal Corporation) was present at the flag off ceremony as the Chief Guest. He was joined by Mr. Shrivardhan Kanoria, Founder & President (EIMG) and Mr. Swapan Kumar Lahiri, Senior Committee Member who flagged off the bevy of Indian Heritage beauties. The rally covered a distance of around 35 kilometres culminating near Maddox Square. The prize distribution was held at Dalhousie Institute that very evening which was followed by cocktail and dinner. This rally has been specifically conceived by EIMG Secretary Mr. Shubhajit Kumar to address the general apathy displayed by other motoring organizations towards the Indian heritage vehicles. The EIMG Indian Heritage Rally 2026 aimed to not only celebrate the timeless charm of Indian heritage automobiles but also paid homage to the enduring spirit of Indian motoring culture. As participants navigated through the scenic route, they not only reminisced about the glory days of automotive design but also embraced the camaraderie that united enthusiasts of all generations.

The Concours Dinner was hosted at the barge of our EIMG Vice President Mr. Avik Naha on the evening of Friday, January 30, 2026. Time stood still as the barge sailed on the Ganges with the wind ruffling our hair. A fabulous musical rendition by Greg Francis set the mood for the evening as the cocktails kept everyone in high spirits. A sumptuous dinner and great conversations made it an affair to remember. A huge shout out to Mr. Avik Naha for being such a fabulous host.

On Sunday, February 1, all roads led to The Lake Club as the EIMG Concours d’Elegance 2026 set the City of Joy on fire with a bevy of scintillating and exotic vehicles which took part in this annual heritage extravaganza. Now in this fifth edition, the event was organized by Eastern India Motoring Group in collaboration with The Lake Club and in association with ACE Commercial. With the majestic Rabindra Sarobar in the backdrop and clear blue sky above, the sprawling green lawn of The Lake Club will make for the perfect setting for a memorable rendezvous with motoring heritage. The EIMG Concours d’Elegance is an attempt to gift the City of Joy with an international standard Concours that would go on to rival the best in the world. With every passing year, the EIMG Concours has been gaining in stature and reputation attracting application from hundreds of serious heritage vehicle restorers and collectors from across eastern India. EIMG Founder & President Mr. Shrivardhan Kanoria meticulously handpicked the final entries of the EIMG Concours from the vast pool of applications received. The competition has been becoming more and more tough each year with the very best of the best locking horns for the top honours.

The Dalhousie Institute (DI) and Eastern India Motoring Group (EIMG) joined hands to organise THE DI EIMG Heritage Vehicle Display on Sunday, March 15, 2026. The event was held at the lawn and the forecourt parking of The Dalhousie Institute where a bevy of 40 heritage vehicles including four and two wheelers and a selection of beautifully restored Fiats from Fiat Users Club of Calcutta (FUCC) were displayed. FUCC is a subsidiary of EIMG who took part in this event for the first time. While the sun kept playing hide and seek from early afternoon and the rain god threatened with an unforeseen downpour, however, it did little to dampen the spirit of the participants. Members of Dalhousie Institute along with their guests were in for a visual treat as some rare and exotic heritage wheels made the onlookers drool in admiration and envy. All the vehicles selected for this event were spectacular in their own right with significant historical importance.

BMW M Drift Academy Returns In A Bigger Bolder Experience

BMW Group India announces the much-awaited return of the BMW M Drift Academy, now in a larger, more dynamic format designed to elevate performance training in India. The 2026 edition expands the thrill of drifting to four major cities – Bengaluru, Chennai, Hyderabad and Delhi.

The BMW M Drift Academy continues to be a one‑of‑its‑kind platform that blends motorsport passion with responsible driving. Participants experience the excitement of drifting in a controlled environment, guided by BMW’s uncompromising safety standards and the pledge to #DriftResponsibly.

Mr. Hardeep Singh Brar, President and CEO, BMW Group India said, “The BMW M Drift Academy is a first‑of‑its‑kind experience for car enthusiasts in India. On popular demand, we are expanding it to more cities, bringing the power of M closer to many more fans. The program delivers an unforgettable journey, mastering advanced drifting techniques with utmost safety under the guidance of BMW certified instructors. It is where adrenaline meets precision, and every drift becomes a symphony of skill, speed and sound. Once you experience the amazing thrill and performance dynamics of M, it’s hard to go back to the ordinary.”

Enrollment for the BMW M Drift Academy is available through authorised BMW dealerships across the country. Interested participants can also enroll on DISTRICT by Zomato. The slots are limited thus ensuring a focused and high‑impact training experience. The participation fee is INR 1 lakh.

Entry to BMW M After Party can be purchased exclusively on DISTRICT by Zomato.

The schedule for multi-city BMW M Drift Academy is –

Bengaluru: 04 – 05 April 2026 at Manpho Convention Centre

Hyderabad: 11 – 12 April 2026 at Prasad Multiplex

Chennai: 18 – 19 April 2026 at Island Ground

Delhi: 01 – 03 May 2026 at Container Depot Ground, Okhla

BMW M Drift Academy

The BMW M Drift Academy opens its doors, inviting all car enthusiasts to take the first step towards mastering the art of controlled performance with BMW M2 and BMW M4 over two days. The course perfectly blends theory and hands-on track time, where skill meets thrill and your drifting journey begins.

Over two intensive days, participants embark on a hands-on learning journey with the iconic BMW M cars. The curriculum integrates advanced driving theory with extensive track time, helping drivers sharpen precision, control and confidence.

Certified BMW instructors train participants on a structured skill sets such as, familiarisation of the features of BMW M cars and train to master skills such as Controlling a Drift, Throttle Control, Maintaining a Drift, Exiting a Drift, Half Circle Drift, Exiting a Half Circle Drift with style, Full Circle Drift, Maintaining a Full Circle Drift (clockwise and anticlockwise) and Transition Drifting on a Figure 8.

Participants who successfully complete the training will be certified and will earn the Drift Pilot – Red Badge of Honour and lay a strong foundation for their journey toward the prestigious Drift Marshal title.

The BMW M After Party – celebrate the M spirit

Beyond the track, BMW M After Party transforms into a vibrant community experience. Fans, drift lovers and enthusiasts come together for an evening of music, gourmet cuisine, drift shows and high‑energy performances, celebrating the culture and lifestyle of BMW M.

BMW Group India To Increase Prices By Up To 2% From April 1, 2026

BMW Group India has announced a price increase of up to 2% across its range effective 1 April 2026. The price increase will be applicable across the range for BMW and MINI vehicles.

Mr. Hardeep Singh Brar, President and CEO, BMW Group India said, “BMW Group India continues to create new benchmarks in the luxury automotive segment in the country, with strong demand and a record-breaking product portfolio. However, to offset escalating logistics and material costs alongside a depreciating rupee, we are implementing a price adjustment of up to 2% across our range effective 1 April 2026. This recalibration ensures we continue to deliver the uncompromising performance, cutting-edge innovation, and world-class service that our customers expect.”

The range of locally produced cars includes the BMW 2 Series Gran Coupe, BMW 3 Series Long Wheelbase, BMW 5 Series Long Wheelbase, BMW 7 Series, BMW X1, BMW X3, BMW X5, BMW X7, BMW M340i and BMW iX1 Long Wheelbase.

BMW Group India also offers BMW i5, BMW i7, BMW i7 M70, BMW iX, BMW Z4 M40i, BMW M2 Coupe, BMW M2 CS, BMW M4 Competition, BMW M4 CS, BMW M5, BMW M8 Competition Coupe, BMW XM (Plug-in-Hybrid), MINI Cooper S, MINI Countryman E, MINI JCW Countryman All4, MINI Countryman SE and MINI Convertible as completely built-up units (CBU).

Ultraviolette Adds To Its Growing Network With Second Experience Centre In Kolkata

Ultraviolette Automotive today announced the launch of a new UV Space Station in Kolkata, a significant step in expanding its retail footprint across emerging mobility markets in India. The expansion follows a series of recent product and technology milestones, including the launch of the X-47 Crossover, UV Crossfade carbon-fibre helmet, and the company’s recently announced, ‘Battery Flex’ (BaaS) platform. This further emphasises Ultraviolette’s focus on building a comprehensive performance-driven electric mobility ecosystem. With this addition, the company further strengthens customer access to its performance electric motorcycles in Kolkata and reinforces its growing national presence.

The newly established UV Space Station, in partnership with dealer M/s. KGN Automobiles EV, will provide customers a comprehensive experience to explore Ultraviolette’s performance motorcycles – the X-47 Crossover and F77s. The UV Space Station is designed to offer an immersive experience, including test ride opportunities, sales consultation, and access to a range of motorcycle accessories – all under one roof. The Experience Centre will display the company’s performance motorcycles, the X-47 and F77s. The products redefine electric performance with a powertrain boasting 40.2 hp and 100 Nm of torque, accelerating from 0 to 60 kmph in just 2.8 seconds. Equipped with a 10.3 kWh battery, it boasts an IDC range of 323 kms on a single charge.

Commenting on the launch, Narayan Subramaniam, CEO & Co-founder at Ultraviolette, said, “Kolkata is a strategic market for us as we expand our national footprint. The launch of the UV Space Station in Kolkata, our second in the city, marks an important milestone as we strengthen our presence in Eastern India. It reflects a growing, aspirational audience that is increasingly aligned with performance, technology, and design in mobility. This expansion enables us to deepen our engagement with customers while making our products and brand experience more accessible. As Ultraviolette continues to scale across India, our focus remains on building a future-ready, high-quality network that supports the next generation of performance mobility while delivering a truly world-class ownership experience.”

Built on Ultraviolette’s deep engineering and platform-led innovation, the X-47 Crossover is the world’s first electric motorcycle in its segment that offers radar as a standard, marking a decisive shift in how performance electric motorcycles are designed and experienced. The motorcycle features a rider-focused interface with a 5-inch TFT display, three distinct ride modes, long-travel suspension, and industry-first radial all-terrain tyres, delivering confidence, stability and control across varied riding conditions.

Advanced safety and intelligence are delivered through Ultraviolette’s UV Radar Intelligence, powered by a 77 GHz rear radar and the UV HyperSense Advanced Rider Assistance System, enabling functions such as blind-spot monitoring, lane change assist, overtake alerts, and rear collision warnings. The X-47 also incorporates the world’s most power-dense air-cooled onboard charger, engineered, developed, and designed in-house by Ultraviolette, alongside an integrated dashcam system. This engineering-led approach has earned recognition across the automotive industry, including honours from leading automotive awards as EV Motorcycle of the Year, reinforcing Ultraviolette’s ambition to build globally competitive electric mobility solutions from India.

In line with Ultraviolette’s commitment to making advanced electric mobility more accessible, the company recently introduced its ‘Battery Flex’ (BaaS), a flexible ownership model designed to lower entry barriers for performance electric motorcycles while providing customers with greater flexibility in battery usage and ownership. With this new initiative, customers can now own an Ultraviolette X-47 starting at just ₹1,49,000, while subscribing to the battery beginning at just ₹2499 per month. This model allows customers to pay for the bike chassis while financing the battery separately under a steady monthly subscription fee. The initiative further strengthens Ultraviolette’s ecosystem-led approach to accelerating EV adoption in India.