AUTO

Canada’s EV market heats up as Kia debuts the budget-friendly EV3 crossover at $36,995, Toyota commits to an all-electric Highlander for 2027, and Ferrari’s 1,036-horsepower sedan divides opinions.

India’s EV market saw a robust 10% month-on-month growth in September 2026, with electric car registrations nearly doubling year-on-year. Tata Motors and Mahindra dominated, while key players in e-rickshaw and e-goods carrier segments also posted strong numbers.

President Donald Trump has approved new fuel economy standards, set to lower the 2031 industry target from 50.4 miles per gallon to 34.5 mpg, reversing Biden-era rules and ending the so-called “EV mandate.”

Domestic car prices in Iran have surged by up to 130% since September 2025, driven by war, sanctions, a naval blockade, and economic collapse. Residents face skyrocketing costs, fuel shortages, and widespread vehicle breakdowns.

Maruti Suzuki has launched the facelifted 2026 Baleno in India, starting at ₹6.09 lakh. The premium hatchback gets a new 1.2-litre Z-Series engine, Level 2 ADAS, ventilated seats, and several tech upgrades, aiming to retain its place as a top-seller in a competitive segment.

Tata Motors has launched Tata.Cars as its new customer-facing brand for all passenger vehicles, aiming to unify its ICE and EV portfolio under a modern, digital-friendly identity. The legal corporate name remains unchanged.

All 59 DMK MLAs have refused new government cars and allowances citing poor state finances, while the party announced sweeping organisational reforms after its defeat in the April 2026 Tamil Nadu Assembly election.

The Hyundai Inster, launched in 2024 as the brand’s smallest electric vehicle, is making waves in Europe’s compact EV market, fueled by changing city regulations and a growing appetite for small, affordable electric cars.

August 2026 is set to be a landmark month for car launches in India, with MG, Mahindra, Volvo, and others introducing new models and special editions, including several limited-run vehicles and high-end EVs.

India’s electric car landscape sees a new leader in the Mercedes-Benz EQS 580 4MATIC, now certified for an 857km range. Meanwhile, overlooked value-packed models like the Citroen C3X, Hyundai i20, and Renault Kiger continue to compete below Rs. 10 lakh.