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Skoda planning to export Kylaq to Europe powered by 1.5 TSI engine

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skoda kylaq next to ceo klaus zellmer

Skoda is considering exporting the made-in-India Kylaq to the European market as a crossover alternative to the Fabia hatchback. Launched here at the tail-end of 2024, the Kylaq is the third Skoda model to come out of Skoda-VW’s ‘India 2.0’ strategy and the Czech carmaker’s smallest SUV to date. While the Kylaq is designed specifically for the Indian market, Skoda feels the compact SUV carries enough pedigree and appeal for European customers.

Autocar India’s recent Pune to Prague drive, a 19,000km cross continent drive that covered several European countries, including the Czech Republic, the brand’s home country, established the Kylaq as a product that could blend in well in some of Skoda’s key markets. “We’re looking into a possibility or an opportunity to bring Kylaq to Europe, but there are a lot of barriers, a lot of homologation questions,” Skoda CEO Klaus Zellmer told us after the conclusion of the cross-continent Kylaq road trip.

1.0 TSI or 1.5 TSI for the Euro-spec Kylaq?

We reported about Kylaq’s export plans to Europe in June 2026 issue of the Autocar India magazine.

In India, the Kylaq is powered solely by the locally manufactured 115hp 1.0-litre 3-cyl direct-injection turbo-petrol engine (1.0 TSI), which can be had with either a 6-speed manual or 6-speed automatic. For Europe, however, Skoda might equip the Kylaq with the 1.5-litre 4-cyl direct-injection turbo-petrol mill (1.5 TSI) seen in the Slavia and Kushaq, paired to a 7-speed DCT.

The 1.5 TSI engine is used in Skoda’s other models and is already Euro 7 compliant making it the logical choice for export markets. However, from a cost perspective the 1.0 TSI is more attractive as it is a three-cylinder unit and is locally produced. However, the 1.0 TSI does not meet Euro 7 standards and upgrading it to the latest emission standards will call for significant upfront investment which will impact the overall cost of the Kylaq for exports.

If Skoda decides on the 1.5 TSI the export version of the Kylaq, it will likely be in a lower 115hp state of tune to help meet the Euro 7 targets. In fact, the Kylaq 1.5 TSI could be offered in two states of tune for the European market, but its not clear what the other power output of the engine would be.

Beyond emission regulations, the Kylaq would have to meet Europe’s safety, security and other homologation requirements that would again add to the cost of the vehicle.

India-EU FTA and weak rupee helps Kylaq’s export business case

The incoming India-EU FTA, in conjunction with the depreciating rupee against the euro, makes a strong case for exporting the Kylaq to Europe. Piyush Arora, the MD of Skoda Auto Volkswagen India Private Limited (SAVWIPL), said that the India-EU FTA will “open up opportunities” for SAVWIPL across all of its business verticals, including CBU imports, components, fully developing new models for India, and exporting cars to the European market.

A final decision has not been taken. However, a European programme would mark a significant step for Skoda Auto Volkswagen India by moving the country’s role beyond developing and manufacturing vehicles for India and other emerging markets to supplying a product to the carmaker’s home region.

With inputs from Hormazd Sorabjee

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JSW Group and Skoda-VW manufacturing joint venture MoU expected within 2 months

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JSW Group and Skoda-VW manufacturing joint venture MoU expected within 2 months

Skoda Auto Volkswagen India and the JSW Group are in the final stages of discussions for a manufacturing joint venture, we have learned. The two companies are likely to sign a non-binding memorandum of understanding (MoU) within the next two months. The proposed venture is currently being discussed as a 51:49 joint venture, with the JSW Group expected to hold the majority stake.

Emails seeking comments were sent to Skoda Auto Volkswagen India and the JSW Group on Tuesday, but neither company responded till the time of publishing. Autocar Professional, our sister publication, understands senior global executives from Skoda Auto and Volkswagen are expected to visit India in the second fortnight of August. The proposed alliance with the JSW Group is expected to be among the key subjects on the agenda as the two sides work towards signing the non-binding MoU.

Equity infusion could fund EV development

The proposed partnership comes as Skoda Auto Volkswagen India prepares its next round of investments in electrification and localisation. The equity infusion from the JSW Group is expected to fund the development and localisation of electric vehicles and support future product programmes.

A large part of the investment is expected to go towards vehicles based on the India Main Platform (IMP), Volkswagen Group’s EV architecture for India. The IMP is derived from the China Main Platform (CMP), allowing the group to use an existing EV architecture and adapt it to Indian regulations, the local supplier base and localisation requirements.

The platform is expected to underpin multiple electric SUVs for the Skoda and Volkswagen brands over the next few years. Higher localisation will be key to bringing down costs and reducing dependence on imports. The scope of discussions goes beyond manufacturing. We understand that the sales and marketing operations across the group’s brands are also part of the talks. A few years ago, the sales organisations of Skoda, Volkswagen, Audi, Porsche and Lamborghini were integrated with the manufacturing business under Skoda Auto Volkswagen India. This has also brought the premium brands within the scope of the discussions.

JSW’s broader automotive strategy

For the JSW Group, the proposed venture is part of a broader effort to build an integrated automotive business across passenger vehicles, commercial vehicles, batteries, manufacturing and exports. Unlike JSW MG Motor India, the proposed Skoda Auto Volkswagen venture will have no Chinese participation, allowing the group to further de-risk its automotive business from China-linked partnerships. We understand the alliance will also help diversify JSW Group’s passenger vehicle operations while creating a Make in India manufacturing base serving both domestic and export markets by leveraging Volkswagen Group’s global production and distribution network. The proposed India-EU Free Trade Agreement is also expected to strengthen the business case for exports from India to Europe over the longer term, making exports an important part of the proposed alliance.

The partnership also fits into the group’s wider automotive plans. JSW already has its joint venture with MG, has set up JSW Motors as a separate passenger vehicle business for products outside the MG alliance, operates JSW Greentech for buses and commercial vehicles, and is investing in cell manufacturing and localisation. The group is looking to connect these businesses with its existing strengths in steel, paints and energy, creating greater vertical integration across its automotive operations.

Localisation of some models being studied

We understand the alliance will also look to leverage manufacturing assets across the JSW Group wherever feasible. This includes the JSW Motors facility at Sambhaji Nagar, formerly Aurangabad, where higher localisation of products such as the Skoda Kodiaq and select Audi models is being evaluated. The aim is to improve localisation levels while making better use of the group’s existing manufacturing footprint.

The alliance is also evaluating the localisation of the next-generation Kodiaq platform. If approved, it could underpin a locally manufactured three-row SUV positioned in the Mahindra XUV 7XO segment. Localising the platform would allow Skoda Auto Volkswagen to compete in one of the country’s largest SUV segments with significantly higher local content.

Following the signing of the non-binding MoU, the two sides are expected to finalise the equity structure, including the shareholding pattern, before moving towards definitive agreements and the required approvals. The discussions are currently centred on a 51:49 joint venture, with the JSW Group expected to hold the majority stake.

With inputs from Ketan Thakkar.

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Government proposes new safety norms for two-wheeled ambulances

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Government proposes new safety norms for two-wheeled ambulances

The Ministry of Road Transport and Highways (MoRTH) has proposed a new set of regulations for two-wheeled road ambulances, outlining dedicated safety, equipment and periodic fitness standards under the Central Motor Vehicles Rules, 1989.

  1. Two-wheeled ambulances to get dedicated fitness inspection norms
  2. Fitness certificate renewal proposed every two years
  3. Full AIS:209 compliance for new vehicles from October 1, 2027

What the draft rules propose

Under the draft amendments, two-wheeled road ambulances will undergo dedicated fitness inspections covering the structural integrity of the patient unit, tyres and wheels, emergency warning lights, stretcher mounting and locking mechanisms, patient restraint belts, stretcher loading systems and the presence of a valid fire extinguisher.

The proposal also fixes the validity of renewed fitness certificates for these vehicles at two years.

Compliance timeline

MoRTH has proposed that top-mounted warning lights on two-wheeled ambulances comply with AIS:209 (Part 1) from October 1, 2026. From October 1, 2027, all newly manufactured L2-category two-wheeled ambulances will have to meet the complete AIS:209 standard. These vehicles will also be allowed to operate only within areas notified by the respective state governments.

 

 

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BMW reportedly puts its upcoming G-Class, Defender rival on ice

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bmw x5 off-road

BMW’s luxury off-roader project, codenamed G74, has reportedly failed to receive final internal approval and is on hold due to changing global market conditions. The rugged luxury SUV was purported to be BMW’s rival to the Mercedes-Benz G-Class and Land Rover Defender, but it’s now uncertain whether it will ever reach production.

Market pressures prompt BMW to re-evaluate product portfolio

Fifth-gen BMW X5. Image used for representation only.

According to recent media reports, one of the reasons behind the G74 project’s halt is concern over the size of the luxury off-roader segment relative to the investment required to develop a dedicated model. BMW is also adopting a more disciplined approach to its model portfolio in light of increasing competition in markets like China, as well as tariffs, trade barriers, currency fluctuations, tightening emissions regulations in Europe, and broader geopolitical uncertainty.

Speaking after the company’s second-quarter financial results, CEO Milan Nedeljković said BMW is re-evaluating which technologies, model variants, and powertrains it will need in the coming years instead of assuming existing development programmes remain viable. “In all these areas, we are taking significant steps and increasing the pace. For example, we are once again reviewing which technologies, model variants and drivetrains we will need in the future. In addition, we are looking at where new partnerships could make economic and technological sense,” he noted.

Fifth-gen BMW X5. Image used for representation only.

Nedeljković highlighted the rapid deterioration of market conditions in China as a key concern for the portfolio review. He said Chinese manufacturers are increasingly expanding into Europe, Latin America, and other global markets, creating additional competitive pressure. Although Nedeljković did not mention the G74 directly, insiders claim the off-road SUV has already become one of the first casualties of BMW’s ongoing product review.

The G74 was reportedly targeting a 2029 launch, and sources say BMW can still approve or cancel projects up to around 18 months before production begins. BMW has not officially confirmed the cancellation of the G74 yet, and since the project is currently on hold rather than permanently scrapped, there remains scope for it to return if market conditions improve.

Everything we know about the BMW G74 off-road SUV

Fifth-gen BMW X5 design document. Image used for representation only.

While BMW never officially confirmed the existence of the G74 project, reports over the past few years suggested the carmaker was developing a purpose-built off-road SUV to rival the G-Class and Defender. In reference to the luxury off-roader segment, a senior BMW manager told Autocar UK in 2025: “We’re aware of the market potential [of such a vehicle]. It’s more than just discussions. We have been planning this for a while. It will definitely need an internal combustion engine.” Earlier this year, BMW M boss Frank van Meel even added to the speculation by stating he ‘wouldn’t say no’ to an off-road SUV fettled by the performance division.

The G74 project was expected to be underpinned by a heavily-modified derivative of the existing CLAR platform, which also underpins the fifth-gen BMW X5. This would have allowed the G74 to be offered with multiple powertrain options, including plug-in hybrid and fully electric, and the SUV’s production was ostensibly planned for BMW’s Spartanburg plant in South Carolina.

Fifth-gen BMW X5 design document. Image used for representation only.

Reports suggest the BMW G74 was designed with a 7-seat layout in mind, while the exterior featured a rugged iteration of the Neue Klasse design language and a bootlid-mounted spare wheel. The SUV was even mooted to be christened the X8, and serve as a spiritual successor to the BMW XM, which is expected to be discontinued in 2028.

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Govt proposes extending PUCC validity for BS6 cars from 1 to 3 years

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Bharat Stage 6

The Ministry of Road Transport and Highways has proposed extending the validity of the Pollution Under Control Certificate (PUCC) for BS6 (Bharat Stage 6) private vehicles that are up to six years old. Under the draft notification, these vehicles would need a PUCC update once every three years, instead of the current one-year validity. For BS6 cars between six and 10 years old, the certificate would continue to be renewed annually, while vehicles older than 10 years would require a new PUCC every six months, the draft added.

Bharat Stage emission norms are standards instituted by the government to regulate the emissions of air pollutants from motor vehicles. India introduced the first phase of BS6 norms in April 2020, followed by the second phase in April 2023, which remains in effect today.

What about BS4 and older cars?

The proposed relaxation is limited to up to six-year-old BS6 cars. As per the notification, owners of BS4 cars will still have to renew their PUCC in every six months, and all motor vehicles complying with BS1, BS2 and BS3 emission norms will have to renew their respective certificates in every three months.

Bharat Stage emission norms in India so far

Bharat Stage emission norms timeline
Bharat Stage emission norms timeline.

India introduced Bharat Stage emission norms in 2000 with the official rollout of BS2 standards. BS2 was based on European emission regulations, with the main difference being the test cycle’s top speed – 90kph for BS2 norms compared to 120kph in Europe. India remained one stage behind Europe until 2010, after which the oil industry couldn’t supply the low-sulphur fuel needed to jump to BS5. Europe, meanwhile, moved to BS6 systematically.

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Land Rover Discovery Sport production to end in 2026

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Land Rover Discovery Sport

Land Rover will end production of the Discovery Sport in December 2026, bringing the entry-level SUV’s 11-year production run to a close. The model remains configurable as of now, but factory orders have already ceased in several European markets, including France, Germany and Spain.

Speaking to Autocar UK, a JLR spokesperson confirmed the timeline, saying production will end in December 2026 as part of the model’s normal lifecycle, with manufacturing already being phased out in selected markets.

  1. Discovery Sport was JLR’s best-selling model in 2016
  2. EU GSR2 safety rules contributed to the SUV’s retirement
  3. Range Rover GT expected to replace it on the Halewood plant production line

Discovery Sport sales declined sharply in recent years

The Discovery Sport was launched in 2015 as a replacement for the Freelander, and became JLR’s best-selling model in its first full year on sale, with more than 122,000 units sold globally in 2016. It received a facelift in 2020, introducing a revised platform and interior, but demand has fallen significantly since then. 

In 2025, JLR sold less than a tenth of the Discovery Sport’s 2016 volume, making it the company’s lowest-selling model. It was followed by the full-size Land Rover Discovery, which is also expected to be phased out as it approaches 10 years since its debut.

GSR2 rules contribute to Discovery Sport’s exit

The Discovery Sport’s withdrawal from several European markets coincides with the introduction of the European Union’s updated General Safety Regulation 2 (GSR2) requirements, which mandate additional safety systems not fitted to the SUV.

While JLR updated its newer models to comply with the regulations, the report states that upgrading the ageing Discovery Sport was likely not commercially viable given its stage in the product lifecycle. Porsche recently took a similar approach by ending production of the ICE Macan rather than updating it to meet the new rules.

Range Rover Evoque and Velar to remain on sale

The Discovery Sport’s retirement raised questions about the future of the closely related Range Rover Evoque, which is built alongside it at JLR’s Halewood plant in the UK. However, Range Rover Managing Director Martin Limpert told Autocar UK that the company has no immediate plans to discontinue the Evoque.

Limpert said JLR’s current focus is on launching the electric Range Rover and Range Rover Sport, while continuing to support the Evoque and Velar with updates and special editions. He added that the brand has a loyal customer base for both models and cannot renew every product simultaneously.

Range Rover GT

According to the report, the Discovery Sport’s retirement is expected to free up production capacity for the upcoming Range Rover GT, an all-electric grand tourer based on JLR’s new EMA architecture. The Evoque could remain in production until the Land Rover Defender Sport arrives next year, although JLR has not confirmed a replacement for the Discovery Sport.

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All we know about the Honda XR300L and XR300 Rally

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All we know about the Honda XR300L and XR300 Rally

The small-capacity adventure motorcycle segment in India has never been more competitive, and understandably so, given how well these bikes suit our riding conditions. While Honda has long had capable dual-sport motorcycles in its global portfolio, it never offered one in our market. That has now changed with the announcement of the XR300L and XR300 Rally. The brand is yet to reveal full specifications, but a combination of what is visible on the bikes and Honda’s existing global lineup gives us a good idea of what to expect. Here’s everything we know so far.

Honda XR300L

Engine is likely related to the CB300F, and Honda already sells an XR300L in South America

Visually, the engine on the India-spec XR300L appears closely related to the 293cc unit found in the CB300F. Additionally, Honda already sells an XR300L in South American markets such as Brazil and Colombia, and that motorcycle also uses a 293cc engine. If the India-spec bike uses the same motor, it is likely to produce around 24.3hp at 7,500rpm and 26.5Nm at 5,750rpm.

Interestingly, the Brazilian-spec XR300L is Flex Fuel-compatible, allowing it to run on either petrol or ethanol. While Honda has not confirmed whether the India-spec motorcycle will feature the same capability, it would make sense given the increasing focus on ethanol-blended fuels in India.

The South American XR300L is certified only to Euro 3 emissions standards, which could explain why the India-spec bike features noticeably different exhaust routing. The stricter emissions regulations here are likely to require revised exhaust architecture and engine tuning, even if the underlying engine remains the same. The bodywork also differs slightly from the South American model.

The bike sold in Brazil and Colombia uses a telescopic fork with 221mm of wheel travel and a rear monoshock with 227mm of travel. While Honda has not confirmed the India-spec motorcycle’s suspension figures, we could expect to see similarly impressive figures. The bike also rides on a 21-inch front and 18-inch rear wheel combo – a setup also seen on the India-spec bike.

Honda XR300 Rally

Gets a larger fuel tank, taller windscreen and TFT display over the XR300L

The XR300 Rally is expected to share its engine and core mechanical package with the XR300L, while adding equipment better suited to long-distance touring. Confirmed additions include a larger fuel tank (capacity yet to be revealed), a 5-inch TFT display that we’ve already seen on several Honda motorcycles in India, and more comprehensive switchgear to access its additional functions. A taller windscreen, knuckle guards and unique bodywork are also part of the package. The Rally also appears to use a different tyre tread pattern, although wheel and tyre sizes are expected to remain unchanged.

If the relationship between the global CRF300L and CRF300 Rally is anything to go by, the XR300 Rally is also likely to feature a slightly taller seat height, a marginal reduction in ground clearance and a small increase in kerb weight owing to its larger fuel tank.

For now, that’s all we know. Honda is yet to announce pricing or full specifications for either motorcycle, but with both bikes now officially unveiled, a launch over the coming months is imminent. Local manufacturing should also allow Honda to price them competitively. For reference, the arch rivals to these bikes, the Kawasaki KLX230 and Hero Xpulse 210 cost Rs 2.19 lakh and Rs 1.67-1.76 lakh, respectively.

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PMS के नए नियमों से जुड़े सेबी के प्रस्ताव में क्या है, इसके लागू होने के बाद क्या बदलाव आएगा?

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सेबी पोर्टफोलियो मैनेजर्स रेगुलेशंस, 2020 में बदलाव की तैयारी में है। रेगुलेटर पोर्टफोलियो मैनेजमेंट सर्विसेज (पीएमएस) इंडस्ट्री की तेज ग्रोथ को देखते हुए रेगुलेटरी फ्रेमवर्क को आज की जरूरतों को ध्यान में रख बदलना चाहता है। इस बारे में सेबी ने कंसल्टेशन पेपर इश्यू किया है। इस पर 13 अगस्त तक राय मांगी गई है।

पीएमएस के एयूएम में तेज उछाल

पिछले कुछ सालों में पीएमएस इंडस्ट्री की ग्रोथ तेज रही है। 31 मई, 2026 को पीएमएस का एसेट अंडर मैनेजमेंट (AUM) बढ़कर 42.61 लाख करोड़ रुपये हो गया। अप्रैल 2019 में यह 18.07 लाख करोड़ रुपये था। पोर्टफोलियो मैनेजर्स की संख्या दोगुनी से ज्यादा हो गई है। 2020 में यह संख्या 226 थी, जो अब बढ़कर 515 हो गई है। पीएमएस क्लाइंट्स की संख्या बढ़कर 2.19 लाख हो गई है।

एसेट्स के  निवेश के विकल्प बढ़ेंगे

सेबी ने कहा है कि पीएमएस इंडस्ट्री की ग्रोथ और इस प्रोडक्ट में इनवेस्टर्स की बढ़ती दिलचस्पी को देखते हुए इससे जुड़े नियमों पर पुनर्विचार जरूर हो गया है। सबसे बड़ा प्रस्ताव पोर्टफोलियो मैनेजर्स के लिए निवेश के विकल्पों का विस्तार है। सेबी ने पोर्टफोलियो मैनेजर्स को ‘लिस्ट होने वाले’ सिक्योरिटीज में निवेश की इजाजत देने का प्रस्ताव दिया है।

विदेशी सिक्योरिटीज में निवेश की इजाजत

सेबी के प्रस्ताव में कहा गया है कि पोर्टफोलियो मैनेजर्स को क्लाइंट्स के एसेट का 10 फीसदी इनवेस्टमेंट-ग्रेड अनलिस्टेड डेट सिक्योरिटीज में निवेश की इजाजत मिलनी चाहिए। इसके अलावा पोर्टफोलियो मैनेजर्स क्लाइंट्स के एसेट्स को विदेशी सिक्योरिटीज में निवेश कर सकेंगे। विदेशी सिक्योरिटीज में विदेश में लिस्टेड शेयर्स, लिस्टेड डेट सिक्योरिटीज, ओवरसीज म्यूचुअल फंड्स आदि शामिल होंगे।

विदेश में निवेश FEMA के नियमों के तहत 

पीएमएस के फंड मैनेजर्स को FEMA के नियमों के तहत विदेश में निवेश की इजाजत होगी। फंड मैनेजर्स को विदेश में निवेश से पहले क्लाइंट्स की सहमति हासिल करनी होगी। सेबी का मानना है कि पीएमएस के नए नियमों के लागू होने के बाद निवेश के लिहाज से म्यूचुअल फंड्स और उसके बीच का फर्क कम हो जाएगा।

यह भी पढ़ें: Income Tax Return: खुद रिटर्न फाइल करें या टैक्स एक्सपर्ट की मदद लें? जानिए क्या हैं एक्सपर्ट्स के जवाब

मिनिमम निवेश 50 लाख से घटकर 25 लाख होगा

सेबी के कंसल्टेशन पेपर में म्यूचुअल फंड-ओनली पीएमएस (MF-PMS) कैटेगरी शुरू करने का भी प्रस्ताव है। इससे अमीर निवेशकों की पहुंच प्रोफेशनली मैनेज्ड पोर्टफोलियो तक बढ़ेगी। प्रस्तावित फ्रेमवर्क के तहत फंड मैनेजर्स को म्यूचुअल फंड्स, ईटीएफ और स्पेशियलाइज्ड इनवेस्टमेंट फंड में निवेश की इजाजत होगी। सेबी ने इस कैटेगरी के लिए मिनिमम निवेश को 50 लाख रुपये से घटाकर 25 लाख करने का प्रस्ताव पेश किया है।