By: HT Auto Desk | Updated on: 16 Apr 2024, 07:14 AM
British Columbia has banned all cars with Level 3 ADAS in the province, directly impacting the new Mercedes-Benz S-Class and Mercedes-Benz EQS.
British Columbia has banned all cars with Level 3 ADAS in the province, directly impacting the new Mercedes-Benz S-Class and Mercedes-Benz EQS.
At a time when the global automobile industry is thriving towards adopting ADAS in an increasingly wide range of cars, the Canadian province of British Columbia has banned all cars with Level 3 ADAS. The province has recently updated its Motor Vehicle Act, prohibiting the use of vehicles with the Level 3 systems, which comes as a major clampdown on using such systems. The updated law makes it illegal to merely drive any Level 3 driving assist-equipped vehicle, even if the technology is not used.
The British Columbia government introduced the new rule on 18th March and enforced it into effect on 15th April. With this rule, driving a car in the province that comes equipped with Level 3 or above becomes illegal. However, currently, there are only two cars that come with Level 3 ADAS, which include the new Mercedes-Benz S-Class and Mercedes-BVenz EQS. This technology allows the drivers to go hands-off and eyes-off at a speed of less than 64 kmph.
This means if a person owns the new Mercedes-Benz S-Class or the Mercedes-Benz EQS, he or she will have to think twice before visiting the province. If caught, the person will be fined with a hefty amount ranging between CAD 368 and CAD 2,000 or even six months in jail as well.
Interestingly, while the British Columbia government has banned the cars equipped with Level 3 ADAS, future use of the technology is not ruled out. In a statement, the government has stated that new and emerging transportation technology needs further testing and policy adjustments before widespread use. The government also said that these new regulations will keep people safer on the roads and encourage even more use of active transportation, which is another step in modernizing the rules to keep up with new technologies that are changing how people are getting around.
Powering the E-Class are three engines. There is a 2.0-litre petrol engine that puts out 196 bhp and 320 Nm and a 2.0-litre diesel engine that produces 192 bhp and 400 Nm. Then there is the 3.0-litre diesel engine that puts out 285 bhp and 600 Nm. All the engines come mated to a 9-speed automatic transmission.
Mercedes-Benz recently confirmed that it will launch as many as three new electric vehicles for the Indian car market this calendar year. These EVs would be part of 12 launches planned for 2024, three of which have already taken place in the TEV (top-end vehicles) category.
While Mercedes did not reveal which EV models it is bringing this year, the company did once again underline that it is looking at playing a lead role in the battery-powered luxury car segment. At present, the portfolio includes models like EQE, EQS and AMG EQS.
Besides revealing its plan for electric cars,Mercedes-Benz India also said that in the last quarter that ended in March 2024, the OEM sold 5,412 units in the country, marking a 15 per cent year-on-year (YoY) growth. The last financial year was the best-ever fiscal for Mercedes-Benz India, claimed the automaker. It claims to have sold 18,123 units in the country in FY24, recording a 10 per cent growth over the previous fiscal. Not only that, in March 2024, the luxury car marque registered its highest-ever sales in India. Another interesting fact the automaker revealed is that 25 per cent of its total cars sold in India were its top-end vehicles.
By: HT Auto Desk | Updated on: 31 Mar 2024, 13:52 PM
Audi hopes to see significant growth in India in 2024, while it also hopes the luxury car segment will cross the annual 50,000-unit sales milestone th
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Audi hopes to see significant growth in India in 2024, while it also hopes the luxury car segment will cross the annual 50,000-unit sales milestone this year.
Audi hopes to see significant growth in India in 2024, while it also hopes the luxury car segment will cross the annual 50,000-unit sales milestone this year. (REUTERS)
Luxury car sales in India could cross the milestone of 50,000 units for the first time ever in 2024, said Audi head Balbir Singh Dhillon in an interaction with PTI. His comment comes at a time when the demand and sales of luxury cars in the country have been growing at a fast pace. The luxury car segment in the Indian passenger vehicle market grew by an impressive 28 per cent in 2023, compared to 2022, with a record sales volume of around 48,500 units.
In 2023, Audi reported an 89 per cent growth in retail sales with 7,931 units, as compared to a total of 4,178 units registered in 2022. Mercedes-Benz, the segment leader recorded its best-ever yearly retail numbers in the country in 2023 with 17,408 units, posting a 10 per cent growth over 15,822 units recorded in 2022. The other German luxury car giant BMW sold a total of 14,172 units in India last year, combining the BMW and Mini models.
What’s fuelling growth of luxury car sales
The luxury carmakers hope the growth momentum in the Indian market will continue further owing to various factors. The aspirational young car buyers are increasingly focusing on luxury cars instead of mundane basic commuters and even mid-level cars. The plethora of advanced technology-aided features available in luxury cars is further fuelling this aspiration. Further propelling the growth in this space are factors like improvement of economic conditions, growth of disposable incomes and launch of a wide range of products. In 2024 as well, these factors will push the demand and sales of luxury cars, hope the carmakers.
What Audi India boss believes
Luxury car sales volumes in India currently account for less than two per cent of the overall annual passenger vehicle sales. Despite the gradual growth in this space, the market share has remained more or less at the same level for the past decade, as the overall passenger vehicle sales volume too grew at a proportional level.
Speaking about the growth opportunity of luxury cars in India in 2024, Dhillon reportedly said that as the sales grew by around 10 per cent and the disruptions in the global supply chain are not that massive, the industry could cross the 50,000 units sales mark for the first time ever in 2024. “Even if the sales grow by around 10 per cent and we do not face issues like disruptions like issues with global supply chain, we (industry) could cross the 50,000 volume mark in a year for the first time ever in 2024,” Dhillon reportedly said.
He also stated that the industry volume could reach a one lakh annual sales mark in future if the growth in the segment touches double digits. “This year if we cross the 50,000 unit mark and the growth continues to be double-digit in the coming years then we could see it happening,” Dhillon said further adding that the industry growth in 2024 may remain at a moderate level as compared to 28 per cent registered in 2023 over 2022. “This year we anticipate the industry to grow as well but not in high double-digit, maybe lower double-digit,” he added. The moderate growth projection is due to the supply chain challenges that have been hampering sales in the January-March quarter, he noted.
Audi’s plan for growth in India
Speaking on Audi’s focus areas for the current year, Dhillon stated that the luxury car manufacturer under Volkswagen Group aims to push sales further as it now has a very strong product portfolio in the country. “That is the first area and we are also looking to expand the sales infra of our pre-owned car business vertical. Last year we had 25 showrooms and by the end of this year we aim to take that figure to 30 outlets,” he noted. Besides that, Audi India is claimed to be focusing on customer-centricity and sustainable business this year.
By: Sameer Fayaz Contractor | Updated on: 28 Mar 2024, 21:56 PM
The 2025 Mercedes-Benz G-Class now comes with mild-hybrid engines across the range, more features, and driver assistance systems.
The 2025 Mercedes-Benz G-Class now gets the 48-volt mild-hybrid system as standard across the range, while gaining power on both petrol and diesel versions
Mercedes-Benz has taken the wraps off the 2025 G-Class facelift bringing key updates to the boxy off-roader. The 2025 Mercedes-Benz G-Class now comes with mild-hybrid engines across the range, more features, and driver assistance systems. Mercedes-Benz has revised the lineup to feature three variants with a straight six petrol or diesel and the top-spec AMG.
The 2025 Mercedes-AMG G63 has also been revised and continues to sport the 4.0-litre twin turbo V8 that develops the same 585 bhp and 850 Nm. The engine now comes with the mild-hybrid tech with the slight performance boost, which helps the performance SUV to sprint from 0-100 kmph in 4.2 seconds. The G63 also gets the new Active Ride Control suspension, while the G 550 now comes with the Transparent Hood feature that gives you a look under the bonnet of the SUV, making it a crucial feature when off-roading.
Also Read : Mercedes-Benz GLC gets a plug-in variant with 308 bhp & 217 kmph top speed
The 2025 Mercedes-Benz G-Class will make it to India sometime next year
The 2025 Mercedes-Benz G 500 or G 550 (depending on the market), now comes with a new 3.0-litre straight-six turbo petrol engine dropping the V8 motor on the predecessor. The engine develops 443 bhp and 560 Nm of peak torque, and comes with the 48-volt mild-hybrid system that provides a boost of 20 bhp and 200 Nm for improved performance and efficiency.
The new six-cylinder is more powerful when compared to the 416 bhp produced by the older V8, while peak torque has gone down with the V8 producing 610 Nm. The engine is paired with a 9-speed automatic transmission that sends power to all four wheels with three differential locks and a low-range function.
The 2025 Mercedes-Benz G-Class gets a subtle upgrade to the interior, notably adding more features and tech
Mercedes has also brought the G 450d to replace the G 400d diesel variant. The variant come with 3.0-litre, inline-six turbo diesel with mild-hybrid tech that produces 362 bhp and 750 Nm of torque. Othe upgrades including a new infotainment setup with the latest MBUX UI. The SUV also comes with wireless charging, climate control cupholders and two new 11.6-inch touchscreen units for the rear passengers.
The 2024 Mercedes-Benz facelift has finally made its India debut on 8th January after making its global debut previously in early 2023. The flagship Mercedes-Benz luxury SUV comes with a host of updates on design and feature front, while the powertrain too received a touch of electrification.
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The front profile of the 2024 Mercedes-Benz GLS facelift has been updated significantly with redesigned LED headlamps, which flank the large and bold-looking front grille that sports four thick horizontal slats. The front bumper too has been revamped significantly with chrome trim surrounding the lower air intake and large black air dams at both ends.
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The new Mercedes-Benz GLS is available in both petrol and diesel engine options, namely GLS 450 and GLS 450d, which come priced at ₹1.32 crore and ₹1.37 crore (ex-showroom). The luxury SUV looks similar to the outgoing model as the side and rear profile of the new GLS remain almost unchanged.
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The 2024 Mercedes-Benz GLS comes with a host of updates inside its plush cabin as well. The first most notable one among them is the upgraded MBUX touchscreen infotainment system, which combines the large touchscreen infotainment system and the instrument cluster. The upholstery has been updated as well.
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Besides these changes, the car gets wireless smartphone charger at the front and back as well. Apart from these, the Mercedes-Benz GLS facelift is majorly unchanged inside its cabin. However, the updated upholstery takes the premiumness of the cabin a few notches up.
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The rear occupants too get dedicated tablets for rear seat entertainment connected to the MBUX system of the car. The MBUX of the GLS gets wireless Android Auto and Apple CarPlay connectivity. The rear seat occupants get a touch panel for controlling a wide variety of functions and features.
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Powertrain options for the new GLS include a petrol engine and a diesel motor as well, which come combined with a 48V mild-hybrid technology that can churn out 20 bhp power and 200 Nm torque alone. Transmision duty for the SUV is performed by a nine-speed automatic gearbox.
By: Mainak Das | Updated on: 08 Jan 2024, 15:45 PM
The 2024 Mercedes-Benz GLS facelift comes with a host of subtle yet noticeable design updates, new features and 48V mild-hybrid technology.
The 2024 Mercedes Benz GLS facelift comes with a host of subtle yet noticeable design updates, new features and 48V mild-hybrid technology.
Mercedes-Benz GLS facelift was officially launched in the Indian luxury car market on Monday at a starting price tag of ₹1.32 crore (ex-showroom). The facelift iteration of the luxury carmaker’s flagship SUV comes in India after making its global debut in April last year. Mercedes-Benz has been tasting success over the last couple of years as the German luxury carmaker is witnessing rising demand for its SUVs. With the launch of the new GLS, the auto company is expecting a sales boost.
Mercedes-Benz GLS facelift: Variants
In India, Mercedes-Benz will offer the new GLS facelift in two different trims– GLS 450 and GLS 450d. While the GLS 450 is powered by a petrol engine, the GLS 450d is fuelled by a diesel motor. While the petrol variant is priced at ₹1.32 crore (ex-showroom), the diesel one comes priced at ₹1.37 crore (ex-showroom).
Mercedes-Benz GLS facelift: Design
The updated Mercedes-Benz GLS gets subtle yet significant visual changes over the outgoing model. The most prominent one among them is the horizontally slated radiator grille finished in silver. The design of the LED headlamps and LED taillights has been revised, while the front bumper of the SUV has been revised as well. The reprofiled front bumper comes with new air inlet grilles and high-gloss black surrounds. Besides these changes, the updated GLS remains unchanged.
Mercedes-Benz GLS facelift: Interior
Interior of the updated flagship Mercedes-Benz SUV is more or less similar to the previous model. However, the SUV features new upholstery options in the form of Catalana Brown and Bahia Brown. Also, the India-spec GLS facelift does not get the six-seater cabin with captain seats in the middle row, which is available in global markets.
The cabin of the facelifted Mercedes-Benz GLS gets an upgraded MBUX infotainment system that combines the centrally mounted touchscreen infotainment system and the driver’s display at the instrument cluster. Other features include a 13-speaker Burmester 590-watt audio system, wireless Android Auto and Apple CarPlay, wireless charging for front and rear occupants, sound personalisation etc.
Mercedes-Benz GLS facelift: Safety
The 2024 Mercedes-Benz GLS facelift gets a parking package comprising a permanent low-speed 360-degree camera and an off-road mode with multiple camera viewpoints surrounding the vehicle. Other safety features on board the luxury SUV include multiple airbags, electronic stability control, a tyre pressure monitoring system (TPMS), and Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS).
Mercedes-Benz GLS facelift: Powertrain
The new Mercedes-Benz GLS is available in both petrol and diesel engine options. The GLS 450 is propelled by a 3.0-litre six-cylinder turbocharged petrol engine that churns out 360 bhp power and 500 NM of maximum torque. The diesel-propelled GLS 450d generates 325 bhp power and 700 NM of peak torque.
Both the petrol and diesel engines come paired with a new 48V mild-hybrid system that generates an additional boost of 20 bhp and 200 Nm under heavy load. For transmission duty, the SUV gets a nine-speed automatic gearbox which channels power to all four wheels via the automaker’s famous 4Matic+ all-wheel drive setup. There are three drive modes on offer, which are – Eco, Comfort, and Off-road.
Mercedes-Benz GLS facelift: Rivals
The new Mercedes-Benz GLS facelift comes refreshing its rivalry with the likes of BMW X7, Audi Q8, Volvo XC90 and Land Rover Discovery.
Mercedes-Benz has stated that it will reveal a number of digital innovations at the CES 2024 in Las Vegas next month. Slated to take place between 9th and 13th January 2024. The German luxury car manufacturer has revealed that it will showcase a camouflaged prototype of the pure electric G-Class and its new Artificial Intelligence (AI) powered iteration of MBUX virtual assistant.
By: HT Auto Desk | Updated on: 25 Dec 2023, 16:48 PM
Mercedes-Benz is gearing up to show a camouflaged prototype of the pure electric G-Class and AI-powered assistant, while the Concept CLA will make its North American debut.
Consumer Electronics Show or CES has been witnessing an increasing penetration of automotive technologies with a rising number of automobile manufacturers every year and the 2024 edition of the annual event is not going to be any different. Honda has already teased an electric vehicle that will break cover at the CES 2024. Mercedes-Benz has also said that it will showcase its updated AI-powered MBUX virtual assistant that will offer a more human-like interaction opportunity with the car.
Mercedes-Benz has said the new MBUX virtual assistant takes the ‘Hey Mercedes’ voice assistant into a whole new visual dimension using high-resolution game-engine graphics developed by Unity Technologies. This updated MBUX system will debut in Mercedes-Benz cars in 2024.
While the AI-fuelled updated version of MBUX will be a key attraction from Mercedes-Benz at CES 2024, the carmaker will also showcase a camouflaged prototype of the pure electric G-Class that is among the much-awaited Mercedes-Benz electric vehicles. Also, the automaker will showcase the Concept CLA electric sedan with a coupe design promising more than 750-kilometre range. With an appearance at this event, the Mercedes-Benz Concept CLA will make its North American debut.
The Concept CLA four-door sedan previews the new entry-level vehicles from the luxury car marquee, which will comprise both internal combustion engine (ICE) propelled models as well as electric vehicles. Meanwhile, Mercedes-Benz India is gearing up to launch its GLS facelift in the country on 8th January 2024, which made its global debut earlier this year.
India is one of the fastest-growing electric vehicle markets in the world. Over the last few years, both legacy players and EV startups have been drastically transforming the landscape of the Indian EV industry. Electric two-wheelers dominate the Indian EV market, but car manufacturers too are introducing interesting products. While homegrown car manufacturers have been launching new electric cars in the country, foreign brands are also bringing their respective products into the segment.
By: HT Auto Desk | Updated on: 23 Dec 2023, 20:42 PM
From mass-market to luxury, the year 2023 witnessed launch of several electric cars across price-segments, with SUVs dominating the chart.
In 2023, several carmakers, in both mass-market and luxury segments have launched some spectacular electric cars across different pricing slabs. Interestingly, like the fossil-fuel-propelled passenger vehicle market, the Indian electric car market is witnessing the rise of SUVs. In 2023, the majority of the electric cars launched in the country were SUVs.
Here is a comprehensive list of the electric cars that were launched in India in 2023.
MG Comet EV
MG Comet EV is the most affordable electric car in India. This small boxy hatchback looks tiny compared to other models in the fray, but a perfect machine for in and around-city commuting. MG Comet EV was launched in 2023 at an introductory starting price of ₹7.98 lakh (ex-showroom). The electric hatchback threw a tough challenge to the Tata Tiago EV, the erstwhile most affordable electric car in India with its pricing. Design-wise, the EV is eye-catching on the exterior, while inside the cabin it looks simple yet very much urban at the same time. The Comet EV promises a 230 km range on a single charge.
Tata Nexon EV facelift
One of the most noteworthy car launches in India in 2023 was the arrival of the Nexon EV facelift. Tata Nexon EV is the country’s bestselling electric car and the homegrown automaker simply ramped up the appeal of the electric compact SUV with the launch of the Nexon facelift, which incorporates a wide range of design and feature updates. The Nexon EV facelift comes available at a starting price of ₹14.74 lakh (ex-showroom), and it promises a 465-kilometre range on a single charge, while it can accelerate to 0-100 kmph in 8.9 seconds. It comes with V2V and V2L technologies.
Powering the electric SUV is a 66.4 kWh battery pack paired with dual electric motors.
BMW iX1
BMW launched the electric avatar of the X1 SUV, christened as iX1 in India in 2023. The luxury EV was launched in the country at a price tag of ₹66.90 lakh (ex-showroom). BMW iX1 is the German brand’s fourth fully electric vehicle and is sold in India via the CBU route. Powering the electric SUV is a 66.4 kWh battery pack paired with dual electric motors. The electric propulsion system churns out 309 bhp peak power and 494 Nm of maximum torque. The EV promises up to 440-kilometre range on a single charge. It can reach 0-100 kmph in 5.6 seconds and can achieve a top speed of 180 kmph.
BMW i7
BMW i7 is an all-electric sedan that was launched in India in 2023 at a price tag of ₹2.50 crore (ex-showroom). The BMW i7 M70 xDrive is the brand’s first M-division electric car that was launched in India in 2023. Powering this luxury electric sedan is a 101.7 kWh battery pack that is paired with dual electric motors and generates up to a 560-kilometre range on a single charge. The electric propulsion system churns out 657 bhp peak power and 1,100 Nm maximum torque. This electric sedan can sprint to 100 kmph from a standstill position in just 3.7 seconds at a top speed of 250 kmph.
Mahindra XUV400
Mahindra XUV400 is the homegrown automaker’s first-ever electric SUV launched in India in 2023. The Mahindra XUV400 comes positioned in compact SUV segment and it competes with rivals like the Tata Nexon EV. Launched at ₹15.99 lakh (ex-showroom), the Mahindra XUV400 is available in two different battery options and promises up to 456-kilometre range on a single charge. Available in EC and EL, the Mahindra electric SUV’s price goes up to ₹18.99 lakh (ex-showroom).
Citroen eC3
Despite being a new entrant in the Indian passenger vehicle market, French auto giant Citroen was quick to launch an electric car in the form of eC3. The electric SUV comes priced from ₹11.50 lakh (ex-showroom) and it promises a range of 320 kilometres on a single charge, which is also the highest in its segment. Available in four different variants, the Citroen eC3 EV is powered by a 29.2 kWh battery pack that promises 320 kilometres range on a single charge. The electric SUV promises a top speed of 107 kmph.
Volvo C40 Recharge
Volvo C40 Recharge is the second electric car in India from the Swedish luxury car manufacturer after the XC40 Recharge. The electric car was launched at ₹61.25 lakh (ex-showroom). The EV competes with rivals such as Kia EV6 and Hyundai Ioniq 5. The EV gets power from a 78 kWh battery pack paired with dual electric motors. The EV churns out 402 bhp peak power and 660 Nm of maximum torque. The EV is capable of running at a top speed of 180 kmph and can sprint to 100 kmph from a standstill position in 4.7 seconds.
Hyundai Ioniq 5
Hyundai Ioniq 5 is the second electric car from the South Korean auto giant in the Indian market. The Hyundai Ioniq 5 EV has been launched in the country at ₹44.95 lakh (ex-showroom). The EV comes competing against the Kia EV6 but is more affordable than the rebadged sibling. Powering the Hyundai Ioniq 5 is a 72.6 kWh battery pack, that promises a 631 kilometre range on a single charge. It gets a rear-wheel drivetrain churning out 214 bhp peak power and 350 Nm of maximum torque. The EV claims come with a fast charging technology that charges the battery from 10 to 80 per cent in just 18 minutes.
Audi Q8 e-tron and Sportback e-tron
Audi launched the Q8 e-tron and Sportback e-tron in India in middle of 2023. The SUV and the Sportback were launched together, priced at ₹1.14 crore and ₹1.18 core (ex-showroom). The Q8 e-tron essentially came as a facelifted iteration of the erstwhile e-tron. Both the SUV and the Sportback were launched in two trims – 50 and 55, with range of up to 600 kilometres on a single charge. Powering the 50 variant is a 71 kWh battery pack, while the 55 onbe gets a larger 114 kWh battery pack. The SUV has a maximum claimed range of 491 kilometres and 582 kilometres for the 50 and 55 variants, respectively, while the Sportback has a maximum range of 505 kilometres and 600 kilometres for the 50 and 55 variants, respectively.
Mercedes-Benz EQB
Mercedes-Benz India launched the EQB 350 4Matic electric SUV in India in 2023, at a starting price of ₹77.50 lakh (ex-showroom). The luxury electric SUV was launched in the country replacing the previous EQB 300 4Matic that was launched in December 2022. The EQB is powered by a 66.5 kWh battery pack. The electric propulsion system onboard the SUV promises 288 bhp peak power and 520 Nm of maximum torque. These specifications are significant enhancements from the EQB 300 4Matic.
Mercedes-Benz EQE
Mercedes-Benz EQE electric SUV was launched in India in 2023 after the EQS and EQB, joining the lineup as the brand’s third EV in the country. The Mercedes-Benz EQE electric SUV was launched here at ₹1.39 crore (ex-showroom). It competes with rivals like Audi Q8 e-tron and BMW iX1 electric SUVs. Mercedes-Benz EQE 500 4Matic SUV comes promising 550 kilometres range on a single charge. The SUV gets power from a 90.56 kWh battery pack that is paired with dual motors. The SUV can accelerate from 0-100 kmph in 4.9 seconds at a top speed of 210 kmph.
China’s Huawei Technologies has asked Mercedes Benz and Volkswagen’s Audi if they are interested in buying small stakes in its smart car software and components firm, according to three people with knowledge of the discussions.
By: Reuters | Updated on: 11 Dec 2023, 16:44 PM
The Huawei Aito M7 is the debut car model from the Chinese smartphone maker.
The move is aimed at expanding its partnerships beyond Chinese brands, they said. Huawei, the target of U.S. sanctions since 2019, also hopes the presence of foreign investors would help defend the business from potential further geopolitical tensions, according to one of the sources who was briefed on the matter.
The Chinese technology giant said last month it will spin off its four-year Intelligent Automotive Solution (IAS) business unit which is seeking to become the dominant supplier of software and components for smart electric vehicles (EVs).
Sources have previously said the unit will be valued at somewhere between $28 billion and $35 billion.
Huawei held preliminary talks with Mercedes in recent weeks, according to two sources. One source said the German auto brand was offered a 3% to 5% stake with the valuation to be negotiated.
But Mercedes was not that interested as it wants to remain in charge of its software to sustain its premium brand positioning rather than outsource it to a supplier, the source added.
Audi’s level of interest in Huawei’s offer could not be immediately determined.
However, two of the sources said Audi and Huawei are planning a partnership to develop autonomous driving technologies for Audi. Those technologies would be used in vehicles for the Chinese market from 2025 and which would be built by the German automaker’s venture with FAW Group.
The sources declined to be identified as the discussions were confidential.
Mercedes declined to comment on what it called speculation. Huawei and Volkswagen did not respond to requests for comment. The move by Huawei comes as global automakers in China increasingly seek to partner with Chinese companies, which have pulled ahead in developing high-end features for tech-savvy Chinese consumers. Volkswagen has been working with EV automaker Xpeng and autonomous driving chip designer Horizon Robotics to develop China-specific intelligent and connected electric cars.
Audi has also partnered with SAIC Motor to develop EVs in a segment for the Chinese market it did not previously have a presence in.
Richard Yu, who oversees Huawei’s smart car business, told a forum in April that it had been difficult for European, U.S. and Japanese companies to choose Huawei as their main supplier of intelligent solutions due to U.S. sanctions. “Therefore it’s a huge challenge because we have invested tremendously,” Yu said at the time.
While many of China’s most high-profile EV manufacturers like Nio and BYD rely on their own software, Huawei has formed partnerships with smaller electric car makers like Seres Group and some big older automakers like Chongqing Changan Automobile.
Changan Auto has said it will be an investor in Huawei’s smart car business once it is spun off, owning as much as 40% along with relevant parties.
Yu said in November that Huawei had invited Seres, Chery Automobile, Jianghuai Automobile Group and BAIC Motor to invest in the smart car firm and hoped FAW Group could join as well.
Dongfeng Motor is another potential investor in the firm, sources have said.
Mercedes-Benz has unveiled the 2024 Mercedes-AMG GLA 45 S 4MATIC+ performance SUV for the world. The 2024 Mercedes-AMG GLA 45 S brings a mid-life update to the compact luxury performance offering with visual and tech upgrades, bringing the model more up to speed with the latest Mercedes models.
By: Sameer Fayaz Contractor | Updated on: 14 Oct 2023, 15:37 PM
The 2024 Mercedes-AMG GLA 45 S gets subtle tweaks to the styling and cabin for the new model year
The 2024 Mercedes-AMG GLA 45 S gets a redesigned front apron with the AMG crest on the bonnet, which replaces the tri-star logo. The headlamps and taillights have been tweaked with a mildly revised inner design that replaces the cluster shape at the front and rear. The wheel arches are now body painted, as opposed to finished in black on the older version, which should make the model appear visually leaner than before. Mercedes is also offering 20-inch alloy wheels as standard with 21-inch wheels as an option. Customers also have the option to upgrade to multibeam LED headlamps on the new GLA 45 S.
The 2024 Mercedes-AMG GLA 45 S packs the 2.0-litre turbocharged, four-cylinder petrol engine with 415.7 bhp and 500 Nm of peak torque
The cabin gets subtle tweaks as well including the new AMG Performance steering wheel, while the MBUX user interface now gets enhanced computing power with an AMG-specific interface. It now supports wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, while the USB Type-C port will charge your devices faster. There’s an extra USB-C port as well. Other upgrades include new upholstery covers for the sports seats with the option to have full-blown AMG Performance seats.
Power on the 2024 Mercedes-AMG GLA 45 S comes from the familiar 2.0-litre turbocharged, four-cylinder petrol engine tuned for 415.7 bhp and 500 Nm of peak torque, paired with the 8-speed AMG Speedshift transmission. The performance offering can sprint from 0-100 kmph in 4.3 seconds with a top speed of 270 kmph. The model also gets an updated RACE mode as standard, while power goes to all four wheels via the AMG Performance 4MATIC+ all-wheel drive system. The Affalterbach-tuned SUV gets AMG Torque Control, which optimises power distribution between the front and rear axles as well as the left and right rear wheels.
The cabin gets the new AMG Performance steering wheel, new upholstery, updated MBUX UI and more
There’s no word on whether the 2024 Mercedes-AMG GLA 45 S facelift will make its way to India. The automaker retails the delectable AMG A 45 S performance hatchback in the country and the GLA 45 S would make for a slightly more practical companion, should it be sold here. Meanwhile, the AMG GLA 35 is on sale in India.
Mercedes-Benz has taken the wraps off the new Mercedes-AMG GLC 63 S E Performance and GLC 43 coupe SUVs, which get the Affalterbach treatment. Both coupe SUVs pack more power than before via a turbocharged mild-hybrid powertrain, while the receding roofline makes them more stylish than the predecessor. The AMG GLC 63 Coupe will go on sale by early 2024, while the GLC 63 S E Performance coupe will go on sale in the second half of 2024 as a 2025 model.
The 2024 Mercedes-AMG GLC 43 Coupe draws power from a new turbo petrol mild-hybrid motor, while the GLC 63 S E Performance gets a strong hybrid turbo engine
Both versions get the same 2.0-litre four-cylinder turbocharged engine. Both engines are paired with a 9-speed AMG Speedshift automatic transmission. The base GLC 43 coupe churns out 415 bhp with a short-term boost of 13.8 bhp via the mild-hybrid tech, while peak torque stands at 500 Nm.
The Mercedes-AMG GLC 63 S E Performance packs 671 bhp and 1,020 Nm from its hybrid engine and has an electric driving range of 12 km
On the other hand, the GLC 63 S E Performance’s 2.0-litre turbo petrol motor is paired with an electric motor that belts out a combined output of 671 bhp and 1,020 Nm of peak torque. The hybrid also claims a pure electric driving range of 12 km. 0-100 kmph comes up in 3.5 seconds and an electronically limited speed of 275 kmph.
Both versions get a rear-axle steering and AMG Ride Control suspension as part of the standard kit. Other components remain the same including the suspension setup with adjustable suspension dampers, all-wheel drive, and braking hardware. The cabin layout also stays the same with the vertically stacked infotainment screen with the MBUX system.
The new GLC 43 and GLC 63 share the same interior with the vertically stacked infotainment screen, sports seats, AMG steering wheel and more
Mercedes-Benz is yet to confirm if the new AMG GLC coupes will make their way to the Indian market. However, considering the previous generation AMG GLC 43 coupe SUV was sold in India and was quite popular too, it’s likely that the coupe SUV will return and could be locally assembled as well.
The Dieselgate saga seems to be continuing eight years after the scandal came under scanner in September 2015. What was started by Volkswagen and other subsidiaries of the Geerman auto giant, is being continued by other brands too. The latest addition to the list is the Mercedes-Benz, which has been accused of using emission cheating devices in its Euro 6 emission standard-compliant cars in its home country, reported Deutsche Umwelthilfe. The German luxury car giant is likely to recall the affected cars soon to fix the issue, hinted the report.
By: HT Auto Desk | Updated on: 17 Sep 2023, 12:21 PM
The accusation of Mercedes-Benz using emission cheating devices in its Euro 6 compliant cars comes as the latest addition in the continuing Dieselgate saga. (REUTERS)
Deutsche Umwelthilfe (DUH), a non-profit environmental and consumer protection organization in Germany has revealed that a leaked letter from the German Federal Motor Transport Authority has shown that Mercedes-Benz was in the agency’s crosshairs earlier this year. It was reportedly accused of using emission cheating devices to bypass the latest stringent Euro 6 emission standards.
Reuters has reported that there were three software-based emission cheating devices found on the OM642 diesel engine powering the Mercedes-Benz E350 BlueTec. Two of the devices reportedly altered the engine operation based on certain temperature parameters. The agency reportedly told the luxury car brand to fix the issue or the cars would be banned from operating. The report further stated that the automaker has claimed that it already developed and deployed the proper software update to address the issue.
This is not the first time Mercedes-Benz has been accused of using emission-cheating software or devices in its cars. Earlier in November 2021, the auto manufacturer was accused of using eight emission-cheating devices in its E-Class models’ diesel engines that came complying with the Euro 6 emission standards. The OM642 diesel engine was under the spotlight at that time as well. The automaker was accused of using the defeat device that reduced the amount of AdBlue injected to neutralize harmful nitrogen oxides.
Mercedes-Benz has revealed the new-generation GLC for the Indian market and the brand’s bestselling SUV has witnessed a complete overhaul over its predecessor. The new offering is larger, more luxurious and packs updated powertrain options as well. Here’s a more detailed look at what we can expect from the second generation Mercedes-Benz GLC.
By: HT Auto Desk | Updated on: 05 Aug 2023, 12:16 PM
The 2023 GLC is now larger, more luxurious and loaded with features.
The 2023 Mercedes-Benz GLC will be offered with the familiar 2.0-litre petrol and diesel engines paired with a mild-hybrid motor. The updated engines are paired with a 9-speed automatic transmission with All -Wheel Drive (AWD) as standard. The petrol unit develops 254 bhp and 400 Nm of peak torque, while the diesel churns out 194 bhp and 400 Nm of peak torque. The mild-hybrid further gives an additional boost of 200 Nm that helps improve low-end acceleration and overall fuel efficiency.
The cabin has seen a major upgrade and mimics that of the new-generation C-Class. This includes the new floating digital instrument console and the larger, vertically-stacked 11.9-inch touchscreen infotainment system. The unit runs the latest MBUX UI and gets a host of features including navigation, voice command, customisation options, along with telematics and more. The SUV is also loaded on the feature front with premium leather upholstery, a panoramic sunroof, Burmester sound system, three-spoke multi-function steering wheel, park assist and more.
On the design front, the second generation Mercedes-Benz GLC gets evolutionary styling. It’s still recognisable but looks bolder with cleaner lines all over. The SUV is also roomier with better legroom and shoulder room. It continues to be a five-seater and is positioned above the GLB in the brand’s lineup.
Watch: Mercedes GLC 2023 SUV: First Look
With respect to colour options, the new GLC will be available in five shades Nautic Blue, Mojave Silver, Selenite Grey, Polar White, and Obsidian Black. The cabin will get three interior themes including Black, Macchiato Beige, and the new Sienna Brown.
Bookings for the new GLC have already begun across the country for a token of ₹1.5 lakh, while deliveries will take place soon after the launch. The new-generation offering is set to go on sale on August 9, 2023, which is when we get to know the prices as well. The compact luxury SUV will be available in two variants at the time of the launch – 300 4MATIC and 220d 4MATIC. The new GLC will compete with the Range Rover Evoque, BMW X3, Audi Q5 and the Volvo XC60 in the segment. Do check out the new GLC’s review coming soon.
