AUTO

Kimi Antonelli made history by becoming the youngest pole-sitter in Formula One at the Chinese Grand Prix. The 19-year-old Mercedes driver's stunning lap secured a front-row lockout for the team, with George Russell qualifying second. Ferrari's Hamilton and Leclerc will start third and fourth, respectively.

India's industrial acceleration is now driven by material performance, not just scale. As global competition tightens, advanced materials are crucial for predictable, safe, and efficient product performance across mobility, electronics, and packaging. This materials-led transition is key to India's future competitiveness and global standing.

Mercedes-Benz India will increase prices by approximately 2% across its sedan, SUV, and electric vehicle range starting April 1. This marks the second price hike this year, attributed to rising input costs and foreign exchange rate fluctuations, particularly the rupee's depreciation against the euro. The company's extensive portfolio, including popular SUVs and EVs, will be affected by this revision.

Kia India has introduced new automatic variants for the Sonet. Buyers can now get automatic transmissions from lower trims. This makes the Sonet one of the most accessible automatic SUVs in its segment. New diesel and petrol automatic options are now available. Kia has also added a new Magma Red colour.

Hero Electric Vehicles Pvt. Ltd. has been ordered for liquidation by the NCLT after insolvency resolution efforts failed. No resolution proposal secured the necessary 66% creditor approval, leading to the tribunal's decision under the IBC. The company's insolvency proceedings began in December 2024.