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<ul><li><keyword id="19895203" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="electric-vehicles" source="keywords">Electric vehicles</keyword> (EVs) are gaining popularity worldwide</li><li>However, concerns remain about their environmental impact</li><li> <keyword id="21881868" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="alternative-fuel" source="keywords">Alternative fuel</keyword> vehicles like hydrogen fuel cells and biofuels are some more alternatives we can tap into</li></ul> Electric vehicles or EVs are in their prime right now, with the demand crossing an all-time high. A trend noticeable around the world, EVs are not only becoming increasingly popular but also fairly affordable. Slowly but surely EVs are overcoming the challenges that crossed them — design, features, safety, and most importantly range. A major credit to this trend can be given to consumer acceptance, policy backing, and improving infrastructure. However, there is a downside to EVs as well. Having featured multiple EVs with our series<a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TCR3PaYxcmk&amp;t=1s" data-type="tilCustomLink" target="_blank"> Short Spin, </a>I developed a strong reference point. This made me wonder why are we so heavily reliant on them. Over its life cycle, EVs cannot be termed as particularly environmentally friendly, which has been their main selling point over the past few decades. <h2>The ‘Red’ side of EVs</h2> There is a bit of red within the go-green agenda that EV manufacturers push. EVs as a whole do come with benefits like low maintenance, improved efficiency and ultimately lower fuel emissions. However, <keyword id="21357488" type="General" weightage="100" keywordseo="EV-production" source="keywords">EV production</keyword> and disposal can have detrimental effects on the natural environment. Here are some socio-ecological concerns over EVs: 1. High carbon footprint in battery production: EV battery production is energy-intensive and often relies on electricity from fossil fuels, leading to a high initial carbon footprint. This is elaborated in a story recently published by Earth Org. 2. Resource constraints and ethical concerns: Particularly with the extensive mining of cobalt and other minerals for EVs, there has been a global outcry. Limited availability of critical minerals like lithium, cobalt, and nickel, shady mining practices long work hours, unsafe work environments, and use of child labour in underdeveloped parts of the world have raised several ethical issues around the sustainability of EVs. This issue can be explored further in this essay by Al Jazeera. 3. Recycling and end-of-life challenges: EV battery recycling is currently inefficient, costly, and poses significant environmental risks, with a huge amount of batteries ending up in landfills. 4. Manufacturing costs and economic barriers: High production costs, especially for batteries, make EVs more expensive than conventional vehicles and require significant investments in new manufacturing facilities and supply chains. 5. Supply chain and geopolitical risks: Critical mineral resources necessary for EV production are concentrated in a few countries. This leads to vulnerabilities in the complex supply chain and often risks disruptions due to geopolitical tensions, trade conflicts, or natural disasters. China as of today controls 83% of EV battery production in the world, with a major stronghold on the supply chain. While I am in no way suggesting to drop out of EVs, I believe sticking to just one alternative risks replicating the same mistake we did for ICE vehicles. So, what are the alternatives? <h2>The alternates fuel vehicles (<keyword id="23193800" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="AFVs" source="keywords">AFVs</keyword>)</h2> AFVs are a growing segment of the automotive industry that utilize fuels other than traditional gasoline or diesel. These vehicles offer similar potential benefits such as reduced greenhouse gas emissions, improved air quality, and reduced dependence on fossil fuels. While EVs are also a form of AFVs, here we will list out other major alternatives like hydrogen fuel and biofuel options. Hydrogen fuel cells: Convert hydrogen gas into electricity, emitting only water vapour. Currently, <keyword id="19906788" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="Toyota" source="keywords" meta.keywordsubtype="org" meta.entityname="Toyota" meta.hostid="261" meta.entityid="Toyota">Toyota</keyword> and Hyundai are the only hydrogen-based cars in the Indian market. Hydrogen internal combustion engines: These vehicles use hydrogen as a fuel in modified combustion engines. While road-legal vehicles for this fuel type aren’t out, BMW with hydrogen 7 is working on a prototype. Ethanol: This is a renewable fuel made from plant materials, commonly mixed with gasoline. In America, Ford F-150 Flex-Fuel and Chevrolet Silverado Flex-Fuel are utilizing this technology. Biodiesel and renewable diesel: Derived from vegetable oils, animal fats, or recycled grease, these fuel types can be used in diesel engines. Compressed Natural Gas (CNG): Perhaps the most famous alternative for cabbies in Delhi, CNG is in popular demand. Technically it is used in specially modified internal combustion engines, primarily for lower emissions. Propane (Liquefied Petroleum Gas, LPG): A byproduct of natural gas processing and crude oil refining, used in internal combustion engines. As technology continues to advance, these AFVs are becoming more accessible and affordable, making them a promising option for sustainable transportation. If you are an eco-conscious buyer in today’s auto market, bear in mind that there are options beyond EVs as well. SEE ALSO: <a href="https://www.businessinsider.in/business/auto/news/mercedes-expands-bev-range-rolls-out-second-locally-produced-model-in-india/articleshow/113388002.cms" data-type="tilCustomLink" target="_blank">Mercedes expands BEV range; rolls out second locally produced model in India</a> <a href="https://www.businessinsider.in/business/auto/news/electric-two-wheeler-adoption-in-india-rising-13-share-expected-by-2026-27-jefferies/articleshow/113361787.cms" data-type="tilCustomLink" target="_blank">Electric two-wheeler adoption in India rising, 13% share expected by 2026-27: Jefferies</a>

EVs are not the only options for alternative fuel — make way for hydrogen and bio-fuel

<keyword id="19994372" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="maruti-suzuki-india-limited" source="keywords">Maruti Suzuki India Limited</keyword> (MSIL) has introduced a new variant of its popular hatchback, the <keyword id="23141056" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="epic-new-swift" source="Orion">Epic New Swift</keyword>, offering an S-CNG model that promises to set a new benchmark in fuel efficiency. With a claimed mileage of 32.85 km per kg, this variant promises to be the most fuel-efficient premium hatchback in its segment, according to the automaker. <h2><keyword id="19909974" type="General" weightage="100" keywordseo="maruti-suzuki" source="keywords">Maruti Suzuki</keyword>'s Epic New <keyword id="23141055" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="swift-s-cng" source="keywords">Swift S-CNG</keyword> launched</h2>The launch of the Swift S-CNG marks another step in Maruti Suzuki's commitment to providing greener mobility solutions. As the demand for eco-friendly vehicles continues to rise, the automaker has expanded its Swift S-CNG lineup to three variants: V, V(O), and Z, offering customers more choices. Each variant comes equipped with a 5-speed manual transmission, and their ex-showroom prices are set at Rs 819,500, Rs 846,500, and Rs 919,500, respectively. Maruti Suzuki has been at the forefront of the CNG vehicle segment in India since 2010. Over the years, it has sold more than 2 million S-CNG vehicles, making it a leader in the industry. Partho Banerjee, Senior Executive Officer of Marketing and Sales at Maruti Suzuki India Limited, talked about the company’s achievements and said, “Our S-CNG technology has democratized green mobility solutions, and we are proud to offer the widest range of 14 S-CNG powered vehicles across all body styles.” The automaker’s CNG vehicle sales have witnessed significant growth, with a 46.8% increase in the passenger vehicle category during the 2023-24 financial year compared to the previous year. Additionally, since 2010, Maruti Suzuki has maintained a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of around 28% in its CNG sales, underlining the strong demand for eco-friendly vehicles in India. <h2>Swift S-CNG features </h2> The new Swift S-CNG not only promises to offer best-in-segment fuel efficiency but also packs a range of features designed to enhance the driving experience. It comes equipped with six airbags for enhanced safety, automatic climate control, a rear AC vent, and a wireless charger. The vehicle also boasts a 17.78 cm (7-inch) Smart Play Pro infotainment system with <keyword id="20518583" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="suzuki-connect" source="keywords">Suzuki Connect</keyword>, offering a connected and feature-rich driving experience. Maruti Suzuki also offers the Swift S-CNG through its subscription program, Maruti Suzuki Subscribe, at a monthly fee starting from Rs 21,628. This option provides a hassle-free way to drive a new car without the need for outright ownership. The subscription fee covers the cost of registration, service and maintenance, insurance, and roadside assistance, allowing customers to enjoy the benefits of driving a new car with minimal worries. (With ANI inputs)

Maruti Suzuki's Epic New Swift S-CNG launched, price starts from Rs 8,19,500

New Delhi: <keyword id="19909974" type="General" weightage="100" keywordseo="maruti-suzuki" source="keywords">Maruti Suzuki</keyword> <keyword id="19895063" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="india" source="keywords">India</keyword> is looking to sell around 6 lakh CNG vehicles in the current fiscal, an increase of around 25 per cent as compared to FY24, according to a senior company executive. The country's largest carmaker company on Wednesday expanded its CNG model range as it rolled out its premium hatchback Swift with S-CNG trims. "This fiscal we are targeting to sell around 6 lakh CNG units. We ended last year with sales of around 4.77 lakh units," <keyword id="20035105" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="maruti-suzuki-india-senior" source="keywords">Maruti Suzuki India Senior</keyword> Executive Officer (Marketing and Sales) <keyword id="21102180" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="partho-banerjee" source="keywords">Partho Banerjee</keyword> told PTI in an interaction. In the April-August period this fiscal, the auto major has so far sold 2.21 lakh units, he added. The new Swift comes in three variants priced at Rs 8.19 lakh; Rs 8.46 lakh and Rs 9.19 lakh respectively. <keyword id="20068420" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="banerjee" source="keywords">Banerjee</keyword> said the S-CNG trims deliver a fuel-efficiency of 32.85 km/kg. "The company pioneered the production of CNG vehicles in <keyword id="19895063" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="india" source="keywords">India</keyword> back in 2010. Since then, we have sold over 2 million S-CNG vehicles to date, contributing to a significant reduction of 2 million tonnes of CO2 emissions," he added. The company now offers 14 models with CNG technology, <keyword id="20068420" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="banerjee" source="keywords">Banerjee</keyword> said. "Last fiscal year, our CNG sales in the passenger vehicle category witnessed a 46.8 per cent growth, compared to 2022-23 and registered a compound annual growth rate of around 28 per cent since 2010," he noted.

Maruti Suzuki targets to sell 6 lakh CNG units this fiscal: Official

New Delhi, Global electrification, previously driven by strong electric vehicle sales, is now showing signs of growth moderation despite supply chain normalisation and price reductions by OEMs, as per a report by <keyword id="20309623" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="jm-financial-institutional-securities" source="keywords">JM Financial Institutional Securities</keyword>. Global automakers like <keyword id="19911527" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="mercedes" source="keywords">Mercedes</keyword>, Ford, GM, VW are scaling back EV investments and turning towards <keyword id="19906936" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="hybrids" source="keywords">hybrids</keyword> due to shifting consumer preferences and challenges like inadequacy and slow pace of charging infrastructure expansion. We believe the situation is no different in India, the analysts said. <keyword id="19906967" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="tata-motors" source="keywords">Tata Motors</keyword> reduced its EV sales estimate and prices recently to boost adoption, citing similar hurdles. MSIL, with its tech-agnostic approach (Hybrids, EVs, CNG, Flex-fuel, etc.), is well-positioned (&amp; hedged) amidst slowing pace of electrification, the report said. Reports indicate of MSIL's strong Hybrid model launch pipeline going forward (five models in next 2-3 years). Tax rationalisation on hybrids could act as a fillip and shift consumer preference towards this choice of powertrain, it added. Till last year, global electric vehicle sales continued to outpace supplies (partially owing to semiconductor shortages) with OEs' orderbook piling to record levels. However, despite normalisation of supply chain, pace of electrification seems to have moderated. Reduction in EV prices (by <keyword id="19895433" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="tesla" source="keywords">Tesla</keyword>, Ford etc.) to drive wider adoption also isn't helping. Global automakers like Mercedes, Ford, GM, VW have deferred EV related investments, reduced their EV sales guidance indicating moderation in EV growth going ahead, the research said. Few of these auto OEMs are turning their focus back to Hybrids amidst shifting consumer preference. Domestic demand scenario for electric PVs is no different. Recently, Tata Motors (market leader with 73% share) reduced its FY24 EV sales estimate by 20% (to 75-80K units) and also cut prices by upto Rs 125K/vehicle to drive wider adoption. Lack of adequate charging infra and hesitant customers (to pay premium over ICE vehicles) are the primary reasons for slower EV adoption, the report said. Currently, MSIL is working on multiple technologies (Hybrids, EVs, Flex-fuel and Bio-gas in addition to ICE/CNG) as the company believes multiple technologies can co-exist in the medium-to-long term. Its current tech-agnostic approach is again a well thought-out approach against committing resources to a single technology, the report said.

Global automakers scale back electric vehicles, turn towards hybrids

As part of his ambition to make <keyword id="19895063" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="india" source="keywords">India</keyword> a green economy, Union minister <keyword id="19897455" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="nitin-gadkari" source="keywords">Nitin Gadkari</keyword> wants to slash GST on hybrid vehicles and has vowed to rid the country entirely of the over 36 crore petrol and diesel vehicles. "One hundred per cent," <keyword id="19934966" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="gadkari" source="keywords">Gadkari</keyword>, the Union Minister for Road Transport and Highways, said when asked whether it is possible for India to get rid of petrol and diesel cars altogether. "It is difficult but not impossible. This is my vision," Gadkari said in an interview to PTI. He said India spends Rs 16 lakh crore on fuel imports. This money will be used for improving the life of farmers, villages will be prosperous and the youth will get employment, the minister said. Gadkari did not give any timeline to meet this ambitious target which even proponents of green energy believe is mind bogglingly difficult. The proposal to reduce GST on hybrid vehicles to five per cent and to 12 per cent for flex engines has been sent to the Finance ministry which is considering the requisition, Gadkari said. The minister said he firmly believes the country can end fuel import by promoting the use of biofuels. Environmental activists welcomed Gadkari's vision for increasing green mobility, but also struck a word of caution by flagging the use of fossil fuels in the production of electricity. "In India, we are still heavily dependent on a fossil fuel-based energy system to power electric cars, and this needs to be changed. There is urgent need to ensure 100 per cent renewable energy alongside electric vehicles to tackle the climate crisis," <keyword id="21152150" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="avinash-chanchal" source="keywords">Avinash Chanchal</keyword>, a campaigner for Greenpeace India, told PTI. Gadkari said he has been pitching for alternative fuels since 2004 and is confident things will change in the coming five to seven years. "I cannot give you a date and year for this transformation to take place as it is very difficult. This is difficult but not impossible," Gadkari asserted. He said he firmly believes that given the speed with which electric vehicles are being introduced, the coming era will be of alternative and biofuels and this dream will come true. Gadkari said auto companies such as Bajaj, TVS and Hero are also planning to manufacture motorcycles using flex engines and auto rickshaws using similar technology too were on the way. "I roam around in a car that runs on hydrogen. You can see electric cars in every other household. People who used to say this was impossible, have changed their views now and started believing in what I have been saying for the last 20 years," the minister said. "Tatas and <keyword id="19906966" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="ashok-leyland" source="keywords">Ashok Leyland</keyword> have introduced trucks that run on hydrogen. There are trucks that run on LNG/CNG. There are 350 factories across the country of bio-CNG," he said. "Definitely, a revolution is taking place. The fuel imports will end and this country will become self-reliant - <keyword id="19952544" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="atmanirbhar-bharat" source="keywords">Atmanirbhar Bharat</keyword>. I strongly believe in this," Gadkari said. SEE ALSO:<a href="https://www.businessinsider.in/business/telecom/news/ussd-based-call-forwarding-to-be-suspended-soon-to-curb-fraud/articleshow/108933705.cms" target="_blank"></a> <a href="https://www.businessinsider.in/business/telecom/news/ussd-based-call-forwarding-to-be-suspended-soon-to-curb-fraud/articleshow/108933705.cms" target="_blank">USSD-based call forwarding to be suspended soon to curb fraud</a><a href="https://www.businessinsider.in/business/auto/news/upcoming-cars-and-two-wheelers-launching-in-india-in-april-2024/slidelist/108869757.cms" target="_blank"></a> <a href="https://www.businessinsider.in/business/auto/news/upcoming-cars-and-two-wheelers-launching-in-india-in-april-2024/slidelist/108869757.cms" target="_blank">Upcoming cars and two-wheelers launching in India in April 2024</a><a href="https://www.businessinsider.in/tech/apps/news/from-ai-photo-editing-to-international-upi-payments-here-are-upcoming-whatsapp-features/articleshow/108815797.cms" target="_blank"></a> <a href="https://www.businessinsider.in/tech/apps/news/from-ai-photo-editing-to-international-upi-payments-here-are-upcoming-whatsapp-features/articleshow/108815797.cms" target="_blank">From AI photo editing to international UPI payments, here are upcoming WhatsApp features</a>

Gadkari vows to eliminate petrol, diesel vehicles in India, bats for lower tax for hybrid cars

Tata Motors on Friday launched the CNG variant of its micro SUV <keyword id="5700" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="punch" source="Orion">Punch</keyword> priced between Rs 7.1 lakh and Rs 9.68 lakh (ex-showroom, Delhi). The <keyword id="16263040" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="punch-icng" source="Orion">Punch iCNG</keyword> is equipped with the company's proprietary twin-cylinder technology with enhanced safety features like a micro-switch to keep the car switched off at the time of refuelling and thermal incident protection that cuts off CNG supply to the engine and releases gas into the atmosphere, Tata Motors said in a statement. It is also equipped with other features such as voice assisted electric sunroof, automatic projector headlamps, LED DRLs, 16-inch diamond cut alloy wheels, 7-inch infotainment system by Harman that supports Android Auto and Apple Carplay connectivity, rain sensing wipers and height adjustable driver seat. The company also said it has also introduced the twin-cylinder technology on its Tiago and Tigor models. The Tiago iCNG is priced between Rs 6.55 lakh and Rs 8.1 lakh, while the Tigor iCNG comes at a price range of Rs 7.8 lakh to Rs 8.95 lakh. Tata Motors Passenger Vehicles Ltd Head-Marketing, Vinay Pant said these introductions put together will make the company's CNG line up "appealing, holistic, and stronger than ever". SEE ALSO:<a href="https://www.businessinsider.in/tech/mobile/news/indian-smartphone-market-sees-a-declines-in-q2-vivo-in-the-lead/articleshow/102417485.cms" target="_blank"></a> <a href="https://www.businessinsider.in/tech/mobile/news/indian-smartphone-market-sees-a-declines-in-q2-vivo-in-the-lead/articleshow/102417485.cms" target="_blank">Indian smartphone market sees a declines in Q2; Vivo in the lead</a><a href="https://www.businessinsider.in/tech/news/samsung-introduces-costliest-tv-in-india-priced-over-rs-1-crore/slidelist/102351372.cms" target="_blank"></a> <a href="https://www.businessinsider.in/tech/news/samsung-introduces-costliest-tv-in-india-priced-over-rs-1-crore/slidelist/102351372.cms" target="_blank">Samsung introduces India to a TV with over ₹1 crore price tag</a> <a href="https://www.businessinsider.in/business/auto/news/electric-two-wheeler-sales-recover-in-july-2023/articleshow/102347978.cms">Electric two-wheeler sales recover after spending June in the pitlane</a>

Tata Motors launches Punch iCNG, price starts at ₹7.1 lakh

<ul><li><keyword id="42747" type="General" weightage="100" keywordseo="tata-motors" source="Orion">Tata Motors</keyword> on Monday launched the CNG version of its premium hatchback <keyword id="7364940" type="General" weightage="80" keywordseo="altroz" source="Orion">Altroz</keyword> at an introductory price of Rs 7.55 lakh.</li><li>It is equipped with a twin-cylinder CNG technology and comes with advanced features such as voice-assisted electric sunroof, wireless charger and air purifier, among others.</li><li>The new offering also comes with premium features such as projector headlamps, LED DRLs, R16 diamond cut alloy wheels and more.</li></ul>New Delhi, May 22 (PTI) Tata Motors on Monday launched the CNG version of its premium hatchback Altroz at an introductory price of Rs 7.55 lakh (ex-showroom all-India). The Altroz iCNG comes in six variants priced between Rs 7.55 lakh and Rs 10.55 lakh (all prices ex-showroom all-India), Tata Motors said in a statement. It is equipped with a twin-cylinder CNG technology and comes with advanced features such as voice-assisted electric sunroof, wireless charger and air purifier, among others. The twin CNG cylinders are located below the luggage area with valves and pipes protected under the load floor thereby minimising the risk of potential damage, the company added. Tata Motors Passenger Vehicles Ltd and Tata Passenger Electric Mobility Ltd Managing Director <keyword id="1890649" type="General" weightage="50" keywordseo="shailesh-chandra" source="Orion">Shailesh Chandra</keyword> said customers are increasingly choosing alternate fuel options with the intent of economical as well as eco-friendly drive and CNG as a fuel with its wide availability and accessibility has gained a lot of acceptance. However, opting for a CNG meant compromising on aspirational features and to give up boot space significantly, which Tata Motors was able to address in January last year by launching the advanced iCNG technology in other models <keyword id="343628" type="General" weightage="50" keywordseo="tiago" source="Orion">Tiago</keyword> and <keyword id="6428281" type="General" weightage="50" keywordseo="tigor" source="Orion">Tigor</keyword>, he added. "With the breakthrough of the twin-cylinder CNG technology and advanced features we are expecting more personal segment buyers to strongly consider this option. "Our multi-powertrain strategy in the Altroz portfolio today offers petrol, diesel, iturbo and iCNG, providing an array of options for the customers to choose from," Chandra said. The Altroz iCNG will bolster Tata Motors' 'New Forever' range and continue to sustain growth momentum in passenger cars, he added. The Altroz iCNG comes with enhanced safety features like a micro-switch to keep the car switched off at the time of refueling and thermal incident protection that cuts off CNG supply to the engine and releases gas into the atmosphere as a measure of safety. The new offering also comes with premium features such as projector headlamps, LED DRLs, R16 diamond cut alloy wheels, an 8-speaker touchscreen infotainment system with Android Auto and Apple Carplay connectivity, Tata Motors said. SEE ALSO: <a href="https://www.businessinsider.in/tech/apps/news/is-whatsapp-secretly-listening-to-your-private-conversations-heres-how-to-check/articleshow/100155980.cms">Is WhatsApp secretly listening to your private conversations? Here’s how to check</a> <a href="https://www.businessinsider.in/tech/news/google-pixel-6a-vs-pixel-7a-smartphone-comparison-with-price-and-features/articleshow/100177889.cms">Google Pixel 6a vs Pixel 7a: Is Google's latest mid-ranger worth the extra ₹12,000?</a>

Tata Motors launches CNG version of Altroz; price starts at ₹7.55 lakh

Cavelossim (Goa), Domestic passenger vehicles sales, specially those of SUVs, are expected to remain strong this fiscal despite the pent-up demand and low inventory which drove up sales in the past are no longer there, according to <keyword id="12985777" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="tata-motors-passenger-vehicles-ltd-" source="Orion">Tata Motors Passenger Vehicles Ltd.</keyword> and <keyword id="12985776" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="tata-passenger-electric-mobility-ltd-" source="Orion">Tata Passenger Electric Mobility Ltd.</keyword> Managing Director <keyword id="1890649" type="General" weightage="50" keywordseo="shailesh-chandra" source="Orion">Shailesh Chandra</keyword>. The company, which sold around 50,000 units of electric passenger vehicles last year, is targeting to reach 1 lakh units this fiscal while it also targets deeper penetration of CNG with the launch of its Altroz iCNG premium hatchback. "So far the indicators are good in terms of demand sustaining at high levels, although the additional moves that we were getting from pent-up demand and low channel inventory that have subdued," <keyword id="796" type="General" weightage="100" keywordseo="chandra" source="Orion">Chandra</keyword> told PTI here. He was responding to a query on the outlook of passenger vehicles sales in India in 2023-24. In the last five to six months, Chandra said two factors -- pent-up demand and low channel inventory, were really driving the demand for the industry. "(Now) these two factors have gone but the key factor, which is the monthly demand that we generate, the flow of customers has sustained at a very healthy level, which is good enough to sustain a retail ability of about 3,10,000 a month (industry wise)," he added. Chandra further said, "Especially in the SUV segment, we are seeing a growth, which is significantly higher, as compared to where the industry growth will be. On the entry side, there has been a slight pressure that is what we see." The growth in the SUV segment has been driven at "a very high pace" by both upgraders and first time buyers opting for such vehicles, he added. In terms of volumes, he said, "Just two years back, we were talking about 2.7 million to 3 million (units for the) industry. It has gone up to 3.9 million (last year). Even if it sustains at a 4.1 million level (this year) it's very healthy, it should help the industry a lot." Chandra, however, added that the "unprecedented" growth of about 27 per cent that industry witnessed last year "will moderate a bit". For <keyword id="42747" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="tata-motors" source="Orion">Tata Motors</keyword>, he said the idea would be to sustain the segments where it is present -- hatchback and sedans, "and new nameplate additions should come in the SUVs. That will be the focus". The company's share of SUVs to its total passenger vehicle sales is at around 66 per cent as compared to 43 per cent of the industry, he said, adding, it would grow even further with the launch of Curvv and Sierra, which would be launched in the market in 2024 and 2025, respectively. On electric vehicles, Chandra said Tata Motors has witnessed exponential growth in the last five years to 50,000 units last fiscal from around 500 units in FY19 "The growth journey has been exponential. Now we are on a higher base...the multiples might moderate from three-four times to lower levels, but of course the aspiration would be to be as close to 100,000 (units)," he noted. On the newly launched CNG version of the company's premium hatchback Altroz iCNG, he said the company has addressed one of the most important hurdles faced by CNG models, which is the compromise in the boot space due to the placement of the fuel cylinder, with its twin cylinder technology. Besides, the Altroz iCNG has been provided with good engine performance and premium features like voice command operated sunroof, he added When asked about sales expectations from the new car, he said Tata Motors experienced CNG penetration ranged anywhere between 30 per cent to 50 per cent in its two models Tiago and Tigor, which also have the twin cylinder technology. "Therefore, we expect that initially it might start with 30 per cent penetration and hopefully with greater awareness of this car (Altroz iCNG) being a no-compromise CNG car, as the awareness will increase, I think the demand will continue to grow," Chandra said. 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Domestic passenger vehicles sales expected to stay strong this fiscal, says Tata Motors' Chandra

With the petrol-powered small car/hatchbacks buyers affected and others opting for sport utility vehicles (SUV), <keyword id="44883" type="General" weightage="100" keywordseo="maruti-suzuki" source="Orion">Maruti Suzuki</keyword> India Ltd will increase its CNG-powered models as well as SUVs, Maruti-Suzuki Chairman R.C. <keyword id="18837" type="General" weightage="80" keywordseo="bhargava" source="Orion">Bhargava</keyword> said on Friday. He also said the small car segment which was at about 70 per cent for the company will go down to about 65 per cent which is also a substantial size. Speaking to reporters, he noted that there has been a degrowth in the small car hatchback segment while the SUV segment logged major growth. "Next year, there will be degrowth in the hatchback segment. The purchasing power of the hatchback segment has been affected and hence, is not growing. The production capacity will come down from 70 per cent to what the market needs," Bhargava said. Nevertheless, hatchbacks are still a large part of Maruti Suzuki's business. According to him, the decline in the small car market began three years ago and inflation will make it worse affecting this market segment. He said the change in the composition of sales - decline in small cars and increase in SUVs - is due to the various price increases. Maruti Suzuki's market share, which was at 51 per cent in 2019, has gone down to 41 per cent this September. Bhargava did not agree that the company was late in entering the electric vehicle segment -it plans to launch its model in 2025 - even as Tata Motors has launched a mass-market model. "We are localising the components, looking at the infrastructure development in the country. An electric vehicle customer should not face issues," he said. Queried about the inventory build-up of the small cars, <keyword id="169965" type="General" weightage="50" keywordseo="shashank-srivastava" source="Orion">Shashank Srivastava</keyword>, Senior Executive Director, Marketing &amp; Sales said there has been a bit of build-up as there is a mismatch of supply and demand. He did not agree that the increase in compressed natural gas (<keyword id="6356175" type="General" weightage="80" keywordseo="cng" source="Orion">CNG</keyword>) prices will result in higher demand for diesel-powered models. <keyword id="5915" type="General" weightage="50" keywordseo="srivastava" source="Orion">Srivastava</keyword> said the diesel segment remains at 18 per cent and CNG continues to be a good economical option against petrol and diesel vehicles. He said Maruti Suzuki will launch more CNG-powered models based on the waiting period for the existing ones. On the SUV front, Bhargava said Maruti Suzuki will increase its offerings and newer models will be showcased at the upcoming AutoExpo. Queried about the impact of rupee depreciation against the dollar, he said that the Indian currency depreciation is much less as compared to other currencies. The rupee has strengthened against the yen, which has resulted in imports becoming cheaper for Maruti Suzuki. Bhargava said the company is targeting two million units this year though the major challenge is the supply of semiconductors. As regards the used car segment Srivastava said the used car pool has gone down. Meanwhile, the company logged an operational revenue of Rs 29,930.8 crore and a net profit of Rs 2,061.5 crore for the quarter that ended on September 30, 2022. For the previous year's corresponding period, Maruti Suzuki's total operational revenue stood at Rs 20,538.9 crore and a net profit of Rs 475.3 crore. During the quarter under review, the company had sold 517,395 vehicles -- domestic 454,200 units, exports 63,195 units. A shortage of electronic components impacted production by about 35,000 vehicles in this quarter. The same period of the previous year was marked by an acute shortage of electronic components and consequently, the company could sell a total of 379,541 units comprising 320,133 units in domestic and 59,408 units in export markets. Pending customer orders stood at about 412,000 vehicles at the end of this quarter out of which about 130,000 vehicle pre-bookings are for recently launched models, the company said. SEE ALSO: <a target="_blank" class="c-link c-message_attachment__title_link" href="https://www.businessinsider.in/finance/news/rupee-touches-82-72-against-dollar-before-closing-at-82-63/articleshow/95146545.cms">Rupee touches 82.72 against dollar before closing at 82.63</a> <a target="_blank" class="c-link c-message_attachment__title_link" href="https://www.businessinsider.in/stock-market/news/markets-log-gains-for-2nd-day-on-buying-in-reliance/articleshow/95147052.cms">Markets log gains for 2nd day on buying in Reliance</a>

Maruti Suzuki's small car sales to go down, to launch CNG models and SUVs

In a fallout of the rise in prices of natural gas due to the ongoing Russia-Ukraine war, Green Gas Limited (a joint venture of GAIL and Indian Oil Corporation) has reduced the supply in Lucknow by 20 per cent. According to official sources, GGL supplies 1.45 lakh kg of <keyword id="6356175" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="cng" source="Orion">CNG</keyword> and <keyword id="6355757" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="png" source="Orion">PNG</keyword> in Lucknow on regular days, but due to the surge in international prices, the supply has been decreased by up to 15,000-20,000 kg per day. "The reduction in supply of CNG and PNG will have a direct impact on nearly 4,000 CNG-run vehicles and 60 industrial units set up within the city limits. We have asked the industrial units to make necessary arrangements and switch their operations to commercial LPG or diesel, as there is no clarity on the restoration of supply by GAIL," an official said. He added that if the price of natural gas continued to rise, the rates of piped gas services for domestic usage would also go up. Currently, the charges for piped gas service for domestic use is Rs 38.5 per SCM (standard cubic metre) up to 45 SCM and Rs 46.33 per SCM above 45 SCM. A senior official in GAIL said, "India imports a major chunk of its natural gas from Qatar. Some part of the demand is met from the wells in Rajasthan and other states. Due to the Russia-Ukraine crisis, there is a shortage of gas supply in Europe and international companies are finding it difficult to meet the demand." "We do not know when the prices will drop again. The Indian supply chain has taken a hit due to the ripple effect of price hike in the international market," he added. SEE ALSO <a class="tout-title-link" href="https://www.businessinsider.in/stock-market/news/lt-tcs-metro-brands-ongc-and-other-hot-stocks-to-watch-out-for-on-march-8/slidelist/90066381.cms"></a><a class="tout-title-link" href="https://www.businessinsider.in/stock-market/news/lt-tcs-metro-brands-ongc-and-other-hot-stocks-to-watch-out-for-on-march-8/slidelist/90066381.cms">L&amp;T, TCS, Metro Brands, ONGC and other hot stocks to watch out for on March 8</a> <a href="https://www.businessinsider.in/business/startups/news/from-byjus-to-mobikwik-here-is-the-list-of-women-led-startups-valued-over-a-billion-dollars/slidelist/90059277.cms" data-type="tilCustomLink">Here are the women who lead India’s billion dollar startups</a> <a href="https://www.businessinsider.in/thelife/news/better-com-is-reportedly-set-to-lay-off-4000-more-workers-this-week/articleshow/90065524.cms" data-type="tilCustomLink">Better.com is reportedly set to lay off 4,000 more workers this week</a>

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