Articles

Fiat 1.3 Multijet in India — A Sentimental Farewell

For a generation of Indian drivers, the Fiat 1.3 Multijet wasn’t just an engine; it was a quiet companion that made everyday commutes effortless and long highway runs possible on a shoestring, earning a fond nickname as India’s “national diesel engine” in its twilight years [2][9].

In a market that needed dependable torque, frugality, and fuss-free cruising, this compact turbodiesel showed how smart engineering could feel bigger than numbers—steady, tractable, and always ready to go the distance [1][2][10].

Diwali 2025: Automotive Industry's Mega Discount Festival Transforms Car Buying

Date: September 25, 2025 | Festival Period: October 21, 2025 (Diwali)

India's automotive industry is experiencing unprecedented momentum as Diwali 2025 approaches, with carmakers rolling out the year's biggest discount campaigns. The convergence of GST 2.0 benefits, festive season offers, and cultural significance of vehicle purchases during Diwali has created a perfect storm for record-breaking sales.[1][2]

Latest Updates on Bhutan Vehicle Smuggling Investigation

Date:September 25, 2025 | Location:Kochi, Kerala

In a dramatic escalation of India's luxury vehicle import crackdown, the Customs Preventive Wing has intensified Operation Numkhor—a comprehensive investigation into illegally imported vehicles from Bhutan. The probe has now expanded to involve multiple central agencies and has reached the homes of Malayalam cinema icons Dulquer Salmaanand Prithviraj Sukumaran[1][2].

Malayalam Movie Stars and Their Car Collections – 2025 Edition

Date: September 23, 2025 | Location: Kerala, India

Malayalam cinema’s leading stars aren’t just known for their acting—they’re also passionate car collectors. From supercars to luxury SUVs, here’s a look at the most talked-about garages in Mollywood.

🔥 Mammootty – The 369 Garage

The megastar’s garage is legendary. Every vehicle bears the number 369, and his collection includes:

Turbo Lag – What It Is, Why It Happens, and How to Beat It

Turbochargers have become standard in everything from diesel SUVs to performance hatchbacks. But with boost comes a common frustration—turbo lag. Whether you're overtaking on NH66 or climbing Wayanad’s hairpins, lag can make your throttle feel sluggish. Let’s break down what turbo lag is, why it happens, and how modern tech is fighting back.

⚙️ What Is Turbo Lag?

Turbo lag is the delay between pressing the accelerator and feeling the turbocharger deliver boost. It occurs because the turbo relies on exhaust gases to spool up—and at low RPMs, there’s not enough exhaust pressure to spin the turbine quickly.

Variable Geometry Turbocharger (VGT) – How It Works, Why It Matters

Turbochargers have transformed engine performance, but Variable Geometry Turbochargers (VGTs) take it further by adapting to engine speed and load. Common in diesel SUVs and high-performance cars, VGTs reduce turbo lag and improve low-end torque—making them ideal for Indian driving conditions.

🔍 What Is a VGT?

A VGT uses adjustable vanes inside the turbine housing to control exhaust flow. These vanes change their angle based on engine RPM, optimizing boost pressure across the rev range.

Bhutan Vehicle Smuggling Probe Reaches Kerala: Dulquer & Prithviraj Residences Raided

Date: September 23, 2025 | Location: Kochi, Kerala

In a dramatic twist to India’s luxury vehicle import saga, the Customs Preventive Wing launched Operation Numkhor—a crackdown on illegally imported vehicles from Bhutan. The probe has reached the homes of Malayalam cinema icons Dulquer Salmaan and Prithviraj Sukumaran.

GST 2.0 Slashes Car Prices Across India – What Buyers Need to Know

🚗 What Changed Under GST 2.0?

  • Compact cars (under 4,000 mm, petrol <1,200cc or diesel <1,500cc):
    GST reduced from 28% to 18%, leading to price drops of ₹50,000 to ₹1.29 lakh
    Example: Maruti Alto K10, Swift, Wagon-R, Baleno
    Source: OneIndia
  • Larger vehicles (above 4,000 mm or engine >1,500cc):
    Now taxed at 40% flat, down from a combined 45–50% (GST + cess)
    Example: Mahindra Thar, Toyota Fortuner, Tata Safari

Insurance Myths for EV & Ethanol Vehicles – What’s Covered, What’s Not

As India transitions to electric and ethanol-blended vehicles, insurance policies are struggling to keep pace. From fire fears to fuel-related exclusions, myths abound. Here's what EV and E20 owners need to know about coverage, claims, and common misconceptions.

🧾 Myth #1: All EV Damage Is Covered

Reality: While most comprehensive policies cover EVs, battery damage due to improper charging, waterlogging, or aftermarket modifications may be excluded. Always check if your insurer covers battery replacement and BMS failures.

E20 Petrol Controversy in India – Myths, Facts & Fallout

India’s nationwide rollout of E20 petrol—a blend of 20% ethanol and 80% petrol—has triggered widespread concern among vehicle owners, insurers, and auto experts. Originally planned for 2030, the accelerated 2025 launch has led to confusion, technical issues, and legal debates.

🚨 What Sparked the Controversy?

While the government promotes E20 as a cleaner, farmer-friendly fuel, critics argue that:

EV Battery Myths vs. Facts – Lifespan, Fire Risk & Resale Value

As India accelerates toward electric mobility, EV batteries remain the most misunderstood component. From fire fears to resale doubts, myths abound. Let’s separate fact from fiction and help buyers make informed decisions.

🔋 Myth #1: EV Batteries Don’t Last Long

Reality: Modern EV batteries, especially lithium iron phosphate (LFP), last 8–10 years or 1.5 lakh+ km with minimal degradation. Brands like Tata, BYD, and Tesla offer 8-year warranties, and real-world data shows less than 15% capacity loss over 5 years in most Indian climates.