BMW Group Rolls Out Nationwide Monsoon Service

BMW India has started ‘Monsoon Service’ with all dealerships in India to ensure its vehicles are ready for the monsoons. The program provides checks and services for better safety and operational efficiency, also upgrades. BMW’s director, Daniel Lugonjic, increased attention to customer care and dependable vehicles suitable for driving during the monsoon season.

Kia India, a leading car manufacturer, has achieved significant growth with sales reaching 21,300 units in June 2024. This marks a 9.8% increase compared to the 19,391 units sold in June last year. The recently launched Kia Sonet emerged as the top-selling model for Kia India in June 2024, with 9,816 units sold, highlighting its popularity among customers.

Strong Half-Yearly Performance

In the first half of 2024, Kia India recorded a robust sales figure of 126,137 units, marking a 6% growth over the previous year. The Sonet contributed the most to this success, accounting for 43% of the company's sales, followed by Seltos and Carens at 32% and 25%, respectively.

International Demand and Exports

Kia India also saw strong demand for its 'Make in India' vehicles globally, exporting 3,206 units in June. The total exports for the first half of 2024 stand at 12,026 units, underscoring the company's growing presence in international markets.

Strategic Outlook

Mr. Hardeep Singh Brar, Senior Vice President and National Head of Sales & Marketing, expressed optimism about Kia India's performance, citing a steady monthly sales growth averaging over 21,000 units. He emphasized the company's commitment to expanding its network and enhancing customer value throughout the year.

Milestone Achievement

Recently, Kia India celebrated surpassing the milestone of 2.5 lakh exports to over 100 markets from its Anantapur plant. This achievement reinforces Kia India's reputation for innovative design, active safety features, and strong market competitiveness.

Kia India's impressive sales performance in June 2024 reflects its growing popularity and strategic market positioning in the automotive industry.

Audi, the luxury car maker from Germany, has reported selling 1,431 cars in India between April and June 2024. This marks a 37% increase compared to the previous quarter but a 6% decrease compared to the same period last year. The company faced challenges due to disruptions in the supply chain.

Strong Demand Despite Supply Issues

Despite the supply chain disruptions, demand for Audi cars in India remains strong. The company is optimistic about the future growth of the Indian market and the increasing preference for premium cars among customers.

Growth in Pre-Owned Cars

Audi's pre-owned car business, branded as Audi Approved: plus, grew significantly by 33% in Q2 2024 compared to the same period last year. This growth also represents an 11% increase compared to the first quarter of 2024. Currently, Audi operates 27 Audi Approved: plus facilities across major cities in India and plans to add three more facilities by the end of this year.

Audi's Product Portfolio in India

Audi's product lineup in India includes a variety of models such as the Audi A4, A6, A8 L, Q3, Q3 Sportback, Q5, Q7, Q8, S5 Sportback, RS5 Sportback, RS Q8, Q8 e-tron, Q8 Sportback, e-tron GT, and RS e-tron GT.

Audi India remains positive about overcoming supply challenges in the coming months and expects to meet customer demands more effectively in the second half of the year.

Kia America has announced pricing for the 2025 Seltos, set to roll out soon. With a $100 price increase, new upgrades include cosmetic and tech enhancements. The current US model may have varied features from the future Indian model due to a difference in global safety and emission standards.

Royal Enfield hints at the Guerrilla 450 roadster, with its global debut scheduled for July 17. It encompasses the new Sherpa 450 engine and will be the second offering to be based on the Himalayan platform. LED lighting, telescopic front forks, and the digital console shown in the teaser. Expectedly the model will have all the connectivity features, including navigation.

Ducati is all set to launch Hypermotard 698 Mono in India and has already started teasing it on social media platforms. Equipped with the astounding 659 cc Superquadro Mono engine, it outputs 76 horses. Being launched with an ex-showroom price of around ₹10 lakh, the release date is yet to be decided.

The 5-door Thar, likely to be called Thar Armada, has been launched in production by Mahindra & Mahindra at its Chakan plant. Initially, production was intended at 2,500 units per month; the current output is 6,000 units per month with an expected output of 70,000 per year. This model will rival likes of Maruti Suzuki Jimny and Force Gurkha 5-door.