evo India Podcast

In this week’s episode, Sirish and Aatish discuss the affordable enthusiast cars in India. Last decade, it was a booming segment with over six warm hatches on sale, however in 2025, it is just the i20 N Line holding fort. With customers moving to the compact SUV segment, manufacturers are focussed there as well creating a whole spectrum of options. There are pics for the enthusiast — the Kylaq and Mahindra 3X0 come to mind. This free-wheeling conversation explores the state of the enthusiast market in India, the dying phenom of the warm hatch, the rise of the compact SUV and so much more. Enjoy listening!

In this episode of the evo India Podcast, Editor Sirish Chandran and Assistant Editor Aatish Mishra bring you the latest updates from the Indian automotive world — including detailed insights, first impressions, and expert opinions on the cars and bikes in India. They start with the two new SUVs from Skoda Auto Volkswagen India, as the new Skoda Kodiaq and the Volkswagen Tiguan R Line were recently launched in India. They give their opinions about how similar yet different these two SUVs are to each other in terms of features on offer, design, improved driving dynamics, and also the price. Aatish talks about his experience driving the new Windsor EV Pro, which now gets more range, features and also ADAS. Sirish shares his joy of drifting the BMW M5 and his time in Spain driving one very expensive Maybach, the Mercedes-Maybach SL 680 Monogram Series. Do watch the full episode to stay up to date with all the latest news and updates from the Indian automotive industry.

In the latest episode of the evo India podcast, Sirish Chandran, editor, evo India, sits down with Aravind Mani, co-founder and CEO of River Mobility and takes a deep dive into what it takes to setup a successful startup in this day and age. Aside from that, Aravind tells us how him and his co-founder went about getting funding, what the major challenges were, the inspiration behind setting up River Mobility, why EVs and not ICE, the Indie, what the plan is going forward and a lot more. Buckle in, this is going to be an interesting oneChapters: 0:00 - Precap0:21 - Introduction1:01 - why should we talk about River Mobility?1:13 - 100 crores in revenue2:03 - River Mobility's competitors2:25 - How it started3:23 - How do you attract investment?3:58 - Arvind was in Petrochemical business5:01 - Being in Ultraviolette5:28 - Quitting job in covid6:59 - Power of well curated presentations8:03 - First product8:11 - First startup funding9:58 - How to find investors?11:29 - Yamaha's investment in River Mobility13:42 - River Mobility's cap table14:58 - Setting up an EV startup today?15:49 - Advice to enter the EV space16:31 - River Mobility's niche20:11 - Nobody will say this21:42 - Integrating different components22:41 - Utility vehicles24:19 - Front foot-pegs25:38 - Target audience26:33 - Is pricing a critical factor?28:33 - Customer's ROI in EV29:18 - Subsidies30:15 - What keeps your awake at night?33:34 - River Indie34:56 - Manufacturing the product37:37 - Testing37:58 - Importance of quality39:37 - Software40:02 - River Mobility's team41:48 - Is software crucial in an EV?42:11 - River EV's infotainment43:18 - EV fleet44:23 - Origin of River's name45:01 - Why not a motorcycle?46:48 - Learnings from customers51:30 - Selling in stores instead of online52:16 - Difference in customers North vs South India53:06 - One on one with customers54:16 - Getting finance partners55:25 - How many products needed to sustain57:10 - River Mobility's second product58:32 - What one thing is Arvind the most proud of?59:32 - Outro

In the latest episode of the evo India podcast, Sirish Chandran, Editor, evo India is in conversation with our chief videographer, Sachin Khot. Sachin started out as an intern and now heads the entire team of videographers. He tells Sirish all about automotive videography. He also talks about how one can build a career as an automotive videographer, the skillset needed along with the equipment, and everything else that you need to know about videography in the automotive space. Have a passion for automobiles and love videography? Want to make it into a career? Watch this podcast now!For internship opportunities, please write to us on workwithus@gtopublishing.com

In the latest episode of the evo India podcast, Aatish Mishra, assistant editor, evo India is in conversation with our chief photographer, Rohit Mane. Rohit has been with evo India for the last 9 years and started as an intern. He tells Aatish all about automotive photography. He also talks about how one can build a career as an automotive photographer, the skillset needed along with the equipment, and everything else that you need to know about photography in the automotive space. Have a passion for automobiles and love photography? Want to make it into a career? Hear this podcast now!

In this podcast, Sirish and Aatish discuss the top 10 best road trips in India. They cover every corner of the country, from the Himalayas in the north, to the western coast, the gems of the south and even the north east. At evo India, we spend so much time on the road that we discover some really special roads and destinations. This is a culmination of over three cumulative decades of road tripping between the Ed and Assistant Editor to every corner of India.

In this podcast, Sirish and Karan dive into the making of the latest record set by evo India – the fastest time from Kashmir to Kanyakumari in an EV. Set with the Tata Curvv.ev, they talk about how the record attempt was different from the attempt with the Nexon EV in 2023, how the infrastructure has improved since (both roads and charging) and what the importance of having safe and skilled drivers for a drive of this magnitude is. Apart from that, they also tell you how the drive was planned, what the major obstacles were and how India is a lot better equipped now, to do road trips in an EV.

In this podcast, Sirish and Aatish recount the epic adventure they had covering 2500km in two Porsches. They took the Porsche 911 Carrera and electric Macan Turbo on a drive from Delhi to Pune, but they took the long road home. Taking the route via Jaisalmer, they stayed away from the mega expressways and drove through the true India. In this podcast, they discuss what it is like to drive a sports car in India, how comfortable it is, how practical it is and whether you can actually, realistically road trip with a Porsche sports car in India!Chapters:0:00 - Intro1:31 - Driving the 911 Carrera and Macan Turbo from Delhi to Pune2:19 - Can the Porsche handle Indian roads?2:52 - Porsche 911 can be everyday sportscar in India3:02 - Start of the drive3:18 - Porsche Macan Turbo Electric as a support car4:05 - Porsche press fleet4:58 - No hotel rooms to stay in for the night5:54 - Jhunjhunu6:29 - Sirish's mistake7:21 - Fabulous roads of Rajasthan8:03 - India's highway network is growing fast9:52 - Everybody stopped and stared10:23 - Porsche is expensive11:28 - 911 without the aero kit12:35 - Shade green metallic12:59 - Bharatmala road14:09 - Beautiful scenic journey15:14 - 380bhp is enough17:21 - Drag race between 911 Carrera and Macan Turbo electric17:34 - Thoughts on the Macan Turbo electric20:04 - Electric sound costs extra20:16 - Impressive range of the Macan Turbo electric21:04 - How do you deal with bad roads?22:15 - Dealing with bad roads in a Porsche24:46 - Porsche meets Statue of Unity26:27 - Aatish's nightmare road28:44 - Porsche gave zero problems29:20 - Saputara ghat31:29 - Sirish's criticism31:40 - Space is enough inside the Porsche32:22 - Creature comforts32:45 - Where the 911 earns it's name33:52 - Greatest sportscar in the world34:10 - BMW M234:28 - Nuance in a car36:10 - Grateful towards Porsche37:41 - Crack on the windshield38:41 - If you have a nice car39:37 - Cover of Evo India March 202540:21 - Outro

In this episode of the evo India Podcast, Editor Sirish Chandran and Assistant Editor Aatish Mishra bring you the latest updates from the Indian automotive world. Kicking things off is Aatish, who tells us everything about the new Kia Syros, the comfort on offer and how it has knee room similar to that in the E-Class. Sirish talks about the Defender Octa which he drove in the vast landscape of South Africa, the fun and the joy of driving it off the road. They also touch upon the G 63 AMG and the new electric G 580, and how the Camry makes for a good value for money, luxury sedan at a ₹50 lakh budget. Hear the full podcast and get your weekly dose of all things automotive!

In this special episode of the evo India podcast, Adil Jal Darukhanawala, editor-at-large, speaks with Sanjay Takale, the first Indian to drive a car at Dakar 2025. Sanjay Takale partnered with the French team Compagnie Saharienne and drove a Toyota Land Cruiser HZJ78, finishing 18th overall and 10th in class. In this podcast, Adil quizzes Sanjay about his journey as a rally driver, including his early days in the sport, and the different rallies he participated in to prepare for Dakar. He also tells us about the Dakar experience, its different stages, and how each stage presents a different challenge. Sit back, relax, and enjoy this rally special episode, in which we celebrate Sanjay Takale's illustrious career and his feat of becoming the first Indian to drive a car at Dakar and finish it.

In this special Formula 1 episode of the evo India podcast, we have Editor Sirish Chandran and Editor-at-Large Adil Jal Darukhanawala in conversation with former F1 driver and Sky Sports broadcaster, Karun Chandhok. They discuss the biggest F1 news of 2025—7-time world champion Lewis Hamilton joining Ferrari—and whether he can secure his elusive 8th drivers’ championship. The conversation also recaps the 2024 Formula 1 season, analyzing key moments and team performances. Looking ahead, they delve into the new F1 regulations set for 2026 and explore how they could impact the teams and the competitive landscape. Additionally, Adil quizzes Karun on the potential return of the Indian Grand Prix, the logistical challenges involved, and the opportunities available for aspiring Indian drivers who dream of entering Formula One. Stay tuned for expert insights, behind-the-scenes stories, and all the latest from the world of Formula 1!

The Auto Expo 2025, India’s biggest auto show, is just around the corner, and this special episode of the evo India Podcast is your ultimate guide to what’s in store. Join Ed Sirish Chandran and Assistant Editor Aatish Mishra as they dive into all the exciting details about the car manufacturers attending and the incredible cars set to be unveiled, showcased, and maybe even launched! From the much anticipated Tata Harrier EV and Sierra EV, the striking MG Cyberster, the Mahindra XUV.e8, the Skoda Elroq, and many more. This year’s Auto Expo promises something for every car enthusiast. Don’t miss this comprehensive preview of the Auto Expo 2025!

In this special episode of the evo India Podcast, automotive historian and editor-at-large at evo India, Adil Jal Darukhanawala is in conversation with Sudhir Mehta, Chairman and MD of EKA Mobility. EKA Mobility is an Indian manufacturer of electric commercial vehicles, ranging from three-wheelers to buses, LCVs, and trucks. In this podcast, Sudhir shares insights on electric mobility for both people and goods, how electric commercial vehicles will help reduce the country's pollution and carbon levels, and how much money they save in the freight carrier industry compared to using ICE trucks and buses. You can also visit the EKA Mobility pavilion at the Auto Expo 2025 where you can see their range of electric commercial vehicles and meet the team behind the scenes. Sit back, relax, and enjoy this deep dive into how electric buses and trucks will save a lot money, and cut down pollution massively in India.

In this special episode of the Boss Talks Podcast, we have Ed Sirish Chandran with the president of BMW Group India, Mr Vikram Pawah, at the Buddh International Circuit. They discuss the growth of the BMW M customers, with over 1000 BMW M340i sold since launch, the new BMW Retail.Next experience centers present in 6 different locations, the sales performance of 2024, and the upcoming BMW cars in 2025 in India. Sit back and enjoy this interesting conversation straight out of a race track.

In this special episode of the evo India podcast, we have in the studio Aatish Mishra, assistant editor at evo India, along with Prashant Agarwal, our senior correspondent who is going to take you behind the scenes of our new world record-setting drive in the Hyundai Ioniq 5. Prashant, who did the entirety of the drive from Umling La to Kuttanad in Kerala shares all the challenges the team faced. These various obstacles include mental and physical fatigue and ensuring the team's morale is always high. Not just that, Prashant also shares his journey from Delhi driving the Ioniq 5 to Leh, and the adverse weather conditions he faced. Also in this podcast is the answer to why we decided to set not just any ordinary record but a new Guinness World Record in the Hyundai Ioniq 5.

In this exciting episode of the evo India Podcast, we’re joined by Mr. R Velusamy, President of Automotive Technology and Product Development at Mahindra & Mahindra Ltd. If you’re an engineer, a student in engineering college, or simply a car enthusiast, this podcast is packed with insights you don’t want to miss!Hosted by Ed Sirish Chandran, this episode deeply delves into R Velusamy's journey – from his early days to becoming a pivotal figure at Mahindra & Mahindra. The biggest challenges faced in automotive technology and product development, the turning points for Mahindra: Was it the 2020 Thar or the revolutionary XUV700? The story behind developing the 2020 Mahindra Thar, setting up the Mahindra Research Valley (MRV), and MSPT. The talent, innovation, and engineering brilliance that make Mahindra a global name in the automotive industry.Get ready for a deep dive into the world of automotive engineering, innovation, and leadership with R Velusamy. So, grab your pens and notepads and tune in for this engineering masterclass!

In this episode of the evo India Podcast, Editor Sirish Chandran and Assistant Editor Aatish Mishra bring you the latest updates from the Indian automotive world. To kick things off Sirish tells us about how he drove all the Indian Car of the Year award contenders, at the Buddh International Circuit. Aatish and Sirish discuss about the pros and cons, their experiences, and what they think about all the contender cars of the ICOTY. They discuss multiple segments, and to name a few, they talk about the practicality of the Mahindra Thar Roxx, the rally-level suspension setup on the Citroen Basalt, the ESP calibration on the Tata Curvv EV, the demand and VFM offering of the MG Windsor, to the design elements of the Maruti Suzuki Swift Dzire. Watch the full podcast to know about all the ICOTY’25 contenders, and what Sirish and Aatish think about them!

In this episode of the evo India Podcast, Editor Sirish Chandran and Assistant Editor Aatish Mishra bring you the latest updates from the Indian automotive world. To kick things off, Sirish and Aatish pay tribute to Ratan Tata’s immense influence on cars like the Tata Indica, Sierra, Estate, Safari, and even the iconic Nano, along with the game-changing acquisition of Jaguar Land Rover. Catch more in our next Gone But Not Forgotten episode dedicated to this automotive visionary. Sirish shares his experience of driving the GLE 53 to Goa for India Bike Week and MotoSoul 2024, including highlights from the events. Aatish provides real-world driving impressions of the BYD Seal and teases his experience with the Honda Amaze. Listen to the full podcast and get your weekly dose of all things automotive!

In this exciting episode of the evo India Podcast, Editor Sirish Chandran is joined by special guest Jeet Tapaswi from Tapaswi Racing to uncover the fascinating world of Underground Pune—India’s secret car meetup.Discover how this exclusive, invite-only car meetup started and evolved over the past 8 years, becoming a hub for India’s car culture. Sirish and Jeet discuss the eligibility criteria to attend, the intriguing backstory, and why it’s intentionally kept away from the public eye.Inspired by the Fast and Furious franchise, Tokyo Drift, and international car culture, Underground Pune celebrates automotive enthusiasts and their passion for cars. If you’re a car lover, this podcast is a must-hear!

In this episode of the evo India Podcast, Editor Sirish Chandran and Assistant Editor Aatish Mishra bring you the latest updates from the Indian automotive world. To kick things off Sirish tells us everything about the new Honda Amaze that was launched a couple of days ago. He tells us about how it looks, the styling differences in real versus the sketches that came out, the engine and the biggest takeaway of it being India's most affordable sedan to get ADAS. He then delves into his time at BMW M Town held at Buddh International Circuit where we had fun in the BMW M2, the M4 Competition and the newly launched BMW M5. He shares his thoughts about how good the BMW M5 drives and handles on track while retaining the twin-turbo V8. Aatish Mishra dives into his time in sunny Tenerife, driving the all-new Audi A6 e-tron Sportback. He shares his thoughts about its styling, the new features, the powertrain and how good it is to drive. From there, he shares his EV charging woes during his recent Pune-Mumbai-Pune road trip in the Nexon EV from the evo India fleet. If you're an EV owner or a prospect, this is surely something you should know. Hear the full podcast and get your weekly dose of all things automotive!

In the latest episode of the evo India podcast, we have with us Martin da Costa, event director, India Bike Week with Ed Sirish Chandran in the studio. They talk about how the India Bike Week came to life, the challenges in hosting such a large scale motorbike event in India. And, Martin also shares insights how Harley Davidson played a pivotal role in setting up India Bike Week. If you're planning to head down for India Bike Week 2024, this podcast is a must watch. India Bike Week will be held on December 6 and 7, 2024 in Goa. Grab your tickets now!

In this episode of the evo India Podcast, Editor Sirish Chandran and Assistant Editor Aatish Mishra bring you the latest updates from the Indian automotive world. To kick things off Sirish tells us everything about the new Mahindra XEV 9e and the BE 6e that were launched a couple of days ago. He shares his thoughts about how these two electric SUVs drive, and handle, how his experience was at the launch event, driving at MSPT in Chennai, and witnessing a live crash test of the XEV 9e. Aatish Mishra dives into his time at the Icons of Porsche event in Dubai which he attended very recently. From all the activities, cars on display from the iconic race cars like the Porsche 962, Porsche 953, and the 24 Hours of Daytona winner, the Porsche 963. He also shares what the event is about and why you must visit if you're a Porsche fan or an automotive fan in general. The biggest highlight for him was driving not one but three iconic Porsches, the Porsche 944, 930, and the 964 turbo. Hear the full podcast and get your weekly dose of all things automotive!

In this episode of the evo India Podcast, Editor Sirish Chandran and Assistant Editor Aatish Mishra bring you the latest updates from the Indian automotive world. To kick things off they talk about Jaguar unveiling their new brand identity and logos that will be showcased on their upcoming all-electric lineup of cars and what to expect from Jaguar next with the grand unveil of the electric concept in December. They also get Lenny into the studio, to tell them about the driving impressions of the new Mercedes-AMG C 63 S E Performance and whether the world's most powerful 4-cyl engine is enough or does it lack the character and dynamics of the iconic V8? Sirish also shares his luxurious experience of driving the Rolls Royce Spectre and Ghost Series II in the south of France and how such drive experiences are a cut above the rest. He also shares his thoughts about how much he appreciates driving the long-term Q8 e-tron in the evo India fleet as his long-term vehicle. Also, they talk about how much is at stake for Mahindra Auto as the launch of their upcoming electric cars, the XEV 9e and the BE 6e is just around the corner. And, finally, from the world of two-wheelers, yet another teaser dropped of the electric Activa from Honda and this one is about to get swappable batteries. Hear the full podcast and get your weekly dose of all things automotive! 0:00 Introduction

In this episode of the evo India Podcast, Editor Sirish Chandran and Assistant Editor Aatish Mishra bring you the latest updates from the Indian automotive world. They kick things off with the launch of the Skoda Kylaq, a sub-4-meter SUV featuring a 1.0-litre TSI engine, discussing its spaciousness, ride comfort, handling, and its potential to significantly boost Skoda India’s sales. The conversation then shifts to the 2024 Maruti Suzuki Dzire, which has achieved a 5-star GNCAP crash safety rating, making it the safest sedan under ₹10 lakh and a more desirable choice for buyers. They also dive into the performance and features of the newly launched Mercedes-AMG C 63 S E Performance and the third-generation G 63. Wrapping up, the duo explores exciting news from the two-wheeler segment, including Royal Enfield unveiling its first-ever electric bike, the Flying Flea C6, at EICMA 2024 in Milan, and the teased electric version of the iconic Honda Activa. Don’t miss this comprehensive roundup of the hottest automotive updates—perfect for enthusiasts and industry followers!

In the latest episode of the evo India podcast, we’re joined by Pratik Kamdar, Co-founder of Neuron Energy, to dive deep into the world of EVs and battery packs. Founded in 2018, Neuron Energy focuses on sustainable solutions for electric mobility, developing advanced lithium-ion batteries for bikes, commercial vehicles, and drones. In this episode, we discuss how different battery packs are made, energy storage, challenges and the complexities of manufacturing EV batteries, and lots more. This one’s a must-listen for science enthusiasts and EV fans!

In this evo India episode, Sirish Chandran and Adil Jal Darukhanawala reflect on the visionary impact of Ratan Tata. From launching India’s first indigenous car to acquiring Jaguar Land Rover, Tata’s influence transformed the automotive industry and built a legacy of innovation. Tune in to hear untold stories, the challenges behind the Nano, and insights into the future he envisioned for Tata Motors and the nation. Share your thoughts in the comments and join us in celebrating a legend who believed in driving India forward.

In the latest episode of the evo India Podcast, Editor Sirish Chandran and Assistant Editor Aatish Mishra dive into the growing negativity and shifting sentiments around electric vehicles (EVs) in India. They discuss the recent discounts on the Tata Nexon EV, the innovative Battery-as-a-Service (BaaS) program introduced by MG Motors with the new Windsor EV, and how these programs aim to make EV ownership more accessible. The conversation also covers hybrid vehicle plans, government policies, the PM E-Drive Scheme, and the future of electric mobility in India. Tune in for an insightful discussion on the state of EVs, the challenges in adoption, and what lies ahead for the Indian automotive industry.

The Indian EV market has faced challenges, with consumers showing a lack of interest in adopting electric vehicles, primarily due to the higher purchase costs compared to traditional ICE (Internal Combustion Engine) cars. In an exclusive interview, we speak with Santosh Iyer, MD and CEO of Mercedes-Benz India, at the launch of the second made-in-India Mercedes-Benz electric SUV, the EQS 580. Santosh Iyer shares insights into the factors contributing to the slower adoption of EVs in India, the current challenges faced by the industry, and what the future holds for electric mobility in the country. Join us as we delve into the key reasons behind the slow EV adoption, how manufacturers like Mercedes-Benz plan to tackle these issues, and what consumers can expect in the coming years for EV technology and infrastructure.

In part 1 of the "Everything You Need to Know About Mahindra" podcast, Ed Sirish Chandran and Adil Jal Darukhanawala, author of Timeless Mahindra, took a journey through Mahindra & Mahindra's history, from producing iconic Jeeps to launching the Thar in 2010. The discussion covered key vehicles produced by Mahindra Auto, including the CJ-3B, Armada, Classic, Major, MM 550, Legend, and more. In part 2 of the podcast, they explore the 2020 Mahindra Thar, the creation of the Mahindra Research Valley (MRV) in Chennai, the XUV700, and the key figures in Mahindra's leadership team. They also discuss failed partnerships with Renault and SsangYong, rumors about Mahindra acquiring Volkswagen's India operations, and Adil’s favorite topic—EVs. Sit back, relax, and enjoy this in-depth podcast to learn everything about Mahindra Auto. 0:00 Intro 0:56 2020 Mahindra Thar and MRV 9:04 Copying of the Jeep design 11:16 Could the 3-door Thar have had a different design? 13:31 Transformation of Mahindra Auto 14:14 Mahindra XUV700 16:25 Key people of Mahindra Auto 24:45 Current leadership team at Mahindra Auto 32:57 Mahindra's partnerships 33:09 Mahindra and Ford 37:36 Mahindra and Renault 39:55 Mahindra and SsangYong 43:45 Mahindra buying Aston Martin rumours 44:04 Mahindra and Volkswagen India rumours 45:10 Why is the Thar not sold in global markets? 47:15 Should the Thar Roxx be named Armada originally? 48:33 Mahindra and Reva 51:00 Is the future for Mahindra electric? 56:53 Outro

In this podcast, editor Sirish Chandran sits down with Adil Jal Darukhanawala, an automotive historian, author of Timeless Mahindra, and editor-at-large at evo India magazine. They take a journey back in time to explore how Mahindra & Mahindra evolved, from producing iconic Jeeps to launching the Thar in 2010. The discussion covers all the significant vehicles Mahindra Auto has produced, including the CJ-3B, Armada, Classic, Major, MM 550, Legend, and more. Adil shares insights into the various strategies Mahindra adopted to build the brand it is today. Sit back, relax, and enjoy this in-depth podcast to learn everything about Mahindra Auto. You can also get a copy of Timeless Mahindra here: https://rzp.io/l/timelessmahindra

Get ready for the next episode of the Boss Talks podcast, featuring Ashish Gupta, Brand Director of Volkswagen Passenger Cars India, in the studio with Ed Sirish Chandran! In this exciting episode, they tackle the burning questions: Is Volkswagen India planning to exit the market or seeking an Indian partner? Plus, they dive into hot topics like ownership costs, upcoming facelifts for the Volkswagen Taigun and Virtus, the future of EVs, and the question every enthusiast wants answered—will the new Polo make a comeback in India? Watch the podcast now to get the inside scoop on Volkswagen India's future plans! 0:00 Intro 1:22 On rumors about VW leaving India 3:06 Is the automobile industry going back to the pre-COVID era 5:37 Views from the Volkswagen India loyalist 6:40 Volkswagen India's journey 7:58 Is the sedan segment coming back? 9:27 What draws people to buying a sedan 10:29 Volkswagen Taigun facelift 11:38 Cost of ownership of a VW 13:19 Does safety aspect of a car result in sales? 14:42 Expansion of the GT badge 15:22 VW Experience or VWe 16:40 Ashish Gupta's journey at Volkswagen India 17:18 Main focus areas during the transition to INDIA 2.0 19:37 What's a day like in the life of a Brand Director 21:58 Do plans change when a new policy is made 23:08 Involvement with various authorities/agencies 23:44 Ashish Gupta's career 25:35 Upcoming Volkswagen India products 27:39 How does the new EV policy change things for VW India 29:02 Sub-4-meter SUV 30:33 Volkswagen Ameo 31:14 Volkswagen Polo 32:02 Is there a need for more products? 32:52 The new Volkswagen Tiguan 34:25 Diesel 36:14 CNG in VW India cars 36:32 Polo GTi 38:01 Volkswagen and Skoda working together 39:07 Views on the Indian automotive market 41:56 Rapid Fire round 44:42 Outro

For the next episode of the Boss Talks podcast, we have with us Martin Uhlarik, Global Head of Design, Tata Motors in the studio with Ed Sirish Chandran. In this podcast, they talk about the Tata Curvv - its inception, design attributes, and more. They also talk about the challenges faced while designing dual-platform vehicles, the role of management, and how the different design studios in the UK, Italy, and Pune operate. Martin also tells us that the Tata Sierra is the next big launch for Tata Motors in 2025 and the development of the Avinya is also in process. Watch the podcast now and get some insights into how the Tata Curvv came to life and the upcoming vehicles from Tata Motors

Narayan Subramaniam & Niraj Rajmohan, founder and co-founder of electric motorcycle manufacturer, Ultraviolette Automotive in studio with Ed Sirish Chandran, talk about Ultraviolette’s progress so far, what the company has been up to, international expansion plans, dealership growth and a lot more. There's an important update about the F99 Factory Racing Platform plans which you do not want to miss!

The monsoons are probably the best time to head out for a drive or ride, contrary to what you might believe. The landscape changes its color, making for breathtaking views. But before you head out, did you know, that as much as the monsoon calls for a fun time of driving or riding, it is equally dangerous because of the challenges like slippery roads, waterpools, fogging up of windscreen and lots more. To address that and to be better prepared to have the best time in the monsoons, we bring you this monsoon special podcast. We talk about all the safety gear, tips and tricks you need to be ready with so that you keep yourself safe and make the most out of your monsoon adventure.

Join us on the latest episode of the evo India podcast as we delve into the rapidly evolving landscape of hybrid vehicles in India. In this engaging discussion, we explore whether manufacturers are placing their bets on hybrids over electric vehicles (EVs) and what this shift means for the Indian automotive market. We talk about cars from manufacturers like Mercedes-Benz, Toyota, Maruti Suzuki, Mahindra and Tata. From the environmental benefits to the practicality and infrastructure considerations, we analyze why hybrids are gaining traction and whether they could be the future of sustainable mobility in India.

We all know about Royal Enfield and its iconic products. They call the Himalayas their spiritual home because, many years ago, Royal Enfield was the first to scale the highest passes in the regions of Ladakh and Himachal, even before roads were constructed. Today, Royal Enfield has grown far beyond just motorcycles and accessories. It has now ventured into making a much larger impact at its spiritual home through initiatives designed to help and support local communities and riders who intend to explore the Himalayas.We had a conversation with Bidisha Dey, the Executive Director of the Eicher Group Foundation, which oversees Royal Enfield's social missions. We discussed the various social responsibility roles they have taken up in the region, including road safety, empowering locals, and even supporting ice hockey.

For the second episode of the Boss Talks podcast, we've got Rakesh Sharma, Executive Director, Bajaj Auto Ltd in the studio with Ed Sirish Chandran and editor-at-large Adil Jal Darukhanawala. In this podcast, they'll talk about the first ever CNG-powered bike which is bi-fuel capable that Bajaj Auto will launch on 17 July 2024, development codename: Bruzer. No power figures or specs have been revealed yet but we know that this bike will cater to economy-conscious buyers while keeping the styling quotient desirable. They also talk about his daily schedule and role as executive director. And, lastly, they talk about Triumph's success in India and the future plans for this company along with KTM going forward.

In this podcast, Ed Sirish Chandran and Aatish are in the studio discussing everything from the automotive space globally to the Indian context. Starting with the new Porsche 911 hybrid which now gets a 3.6-litre, flat-six hybrid power plant. Prices for the Porsche 911 Carrera start at ₹1.98 crore and the Porsche 911 Carrera GTS start from ₹2.75 crore. From fast supercars, we move to hot hatchbacks in India which is about to get a new entrant in the form of the Tata Altroz Racer. First showcased at the 2023 Auto Expo and then at the Bharat Mobility Global Expo in 2024, the Altroz Racer is finally ready for the Indian market. Powering it will be a 1.2-litre, turbo-petrol mill, making 118bhp and 170Nm, which is 8bhp and 30Nm more than the regular Altroz hatchback. From the business side, Land Rover will manufacture their flagship SUVs, the full-size Range Rover and Range Rover Sport, locally in India starting this month. India becomes the first country outside of the UK, to build the Range Rover and the Range Rover Sport. This move means that the LWB Range Rover and the Range Rover Sport will now have a slightly reduced price if you wish to buy one. Bentley Motors, the British luxury car manufacturer, will operate under Skoda Volkswagen Group India from 2025 Lastly, from the motorsport world, the 2024 Indian MotoGP or the BharatGP has been canceled due to expected weather conditions. But it's not all sad news, the organisers are aiming for a March 2025 calendar slot and the option of pre-season testing is also being evaluated. Watch the full podcast now to get yourself up to speed with all the news.

In this podcast, we have an in-depth conversation with Anand Kulkarni, Chief Product Officer, Tata Passenger Electric Mobility, and Ed Sirish Chandran. We learn an interesting story about how Tata Motors started its EV journey. Anand also shares his thoughts on whether he feels EVs are the future, upcoming EVs, the challenges faced, and how Tata Motors overcomes them. There is also a segment on how you can make a career at Tata Motors. Listen to the te full podcast to find out.

Join Ed Sirish Chandran and Aatish Mishra in this insightful podcast episode as they delve into the highly anticipated launch of 2024, the Maruti Suzuki Swift. With updated styling, features, and a brand-new engine, the new Swift promises efficiency and performance. However, despite its claimed fuel efficiency of 24.8kmpl for the manual and 25.75kmpl for the automatic, it falls short on power compared to its predecessors. Surprisingly, the absence of a 1-liter boosterjet engine or a hybrid option raises questions, especially when competitors offer a turbo-mill-equipped sporty alternative. Nevertheless, the new Swift retains its reputation as a driver's car with good ride and handling. Watch the full podcast now to find out whether it retains the Swift DNA in 2024.

Just before the launch of the NS 400 which will be the biggest Pulsar ever, Adil Jal Darukhanawala, Editor-at-large and Sirish Chandran, Editor of evo India, delved into the significant landmarks of Bajaj Autos' evolving history. Bajaj Auto has come a long way from a rising sensation with the Chetak in the scooter market to uplifting the motorcycle segment with Pulsars. In this insightful podcast, they shed light on the inception of the Indian motorcycle space, along getting into the details on the government's role in shaping the market. They have also briefly discussed Bajaj Auto's strategic partnership with global brands like Kawasaki, KTM, Triumph and Renault. The discussion delves into the Pulsar rising craze, transforming the brand image and setting the standard for enthusiasts. Watch till the end for views on the EV push, the upcoming Pulsar launch and Bajaj Autos' first CNG bike. 

We're starting a new podcast series, called the Boss Talks where we feature CEOs, MDs, and all the movers and shakers of the Indian automotive industry. We'll talk to them about the ups and downs, challenges faced and future opportunities. We have Santosh Iyer, MD and CEO of Mercedes-Benz India with Ed Sirish Chandran for the first episode with us in the studio. They talk about his journey to becoming CEO and completing 15 years with Mercedes-Benz India, future plans of the brand, his daily job as a CEO and what the future holds for us. For the ones looking to make a career in the automotive space, we do have a segment on careers with Mercedes-Benz India as well. Don't forget to watch the full podcast because we have a special rapid-fire round with him where we get a little hint of his likes, dislikes and some never seen, never heard before things.

Today's podcast is a very special one on Tata Motors. Editor Sirish Chandran and Adil Jal Darukhanawala start with the brand's history in the mid-1900s. They also talk about how Tata Motors almost collaborated with Porsche to manufacture the Beetle in India. Then came Tata Motors' famous tie-up with Mercedes to manufacture trucks in India. This tie-up set up the base for Tata Motors' truck business in India, which then later allowed them to start manufacturing cars like the Tata Sierra and the Tata Estate. Then came the iconic Tata Sumo and the Tata Safari. Tata Motors then shifted focus to small cars, starting with the Indica, the platform of which is still in use by the Nexon. Adil gives us an insight into how the people within Tata Motors contributed to its image and success. All of which later helped Tata Motors acquire Jaguar-Land Rover from Ford. They also talk about the Punch, Harrier and the Safari, and how the entire Tata Motors' portfolio is five-start safety rated, making it one of the safest car brands in India. And then moving on to upcoming cars from Tata Motors like the Harrier.ev, Curvv, and the Sierra. It's a long podcast, but this one is really, really special.

In this podcast on evo India, Assistant Editor Aatish Mishra is in conversation with Editor-at-Large Adil Jal Darukhanawala about the Indian roads. The conversation starts with the newly constructed Atal Setu and moves on to the history of Indian roads, where Adil delves deep into the Indian road network, how roads were planned, and more. They also discuss on the current condition of our roads, how the urban network is planned, and how motorsports has impacted some roads in India. And they also talk about the toll collection on our roads, and traffic law enforcement.

Celebrating four decades of the iconic Maruti Suzuki 800, the beloved people's car of India, Editor Sirish Chandran and Editor-at-large Adil Jal Darukhanawala delve into the profound impact that Maruti Suzuki has had on the Indian automotive industry throughout these 40 years. In this engaging podcast, they share captivating insights into Adil's personal experiences with the 800, exploring the evolution of this legendary vehicle through various generations, such as the Zen, A-Star, and Alto. But it's not just about the cars – the conversation also provides a fascinating glimpse into the automotive landscape of India before the inception of Maruti Udyog Limited. Adil sheds light on the conditions, challenges, and dynamics of the Indian auto industry during that era, setting the stage for the transformative journey that was to follow. The discussion also delves into the origins of the SS80, unravelling the story behind its creation, and provides insights into why the Maruti Suzuki 800 earned its reputation as the people's car.

Following our previous podcast, Editor Sirish Chandran and Assistant Editor Aatish Mishra talk about the upcoming luxury cars and EVs in India. They start off with a barrage of Mercedes including the EQG, GLS and the E-Class. Followed by the Audi Q8, Q4, and the Q6 e-tron. Continuing with the German cars, they tell us about the Porsche Panamera, 911 992.2, and the Taycan and Macan electric. A new Range Rover Evoque is also coming in, which Aatish drove a while ago. The Skoda-Volkswagen group also has a bunch of electric cars lined up for India, including the long-awaited Enyaq iV and the ID4 GTX. Coming to Indian manufacturers, the Maruti Suzuki EVX is also expected in 2024, and so is the Mahindra XUV e8, which is an EV based on the XUV700. While Tata has just launched the Punch Electric, we should also see the Curvv EV and hopefully the Sierra EV. Sirish and Aatish give a complete download and share some inside secrets about the upcoming luxury cars and SUVs of 2024

2024 is going to be full of exciting new cars and SUVs. Few that we have known about for a long time, some that are new. Editor Sirish Chandran and Assistant Editor Aatish Mishra discuss about these upcoming cars and SUVs of 2024. Starting with the hotly anticipated Volkswagen Polo, followed by the new Virtus GT Manual. They also discuss the Tata Curvv, which will come in as an EV as well as ICE. Then there's the hottest SUV on the block -- the Mahindra Thar 5-door (could it be called the Mahindra Thar Armada?). On the top, the Force Gurkha 5-door is also around the block. The Maruti Suzuki Swift will also get a new avatar and an engine. The new Hyundai Creta is also on the way. The Skoda Kodiaq and Volkswagen Tiguan will be refreshed too with some new looks and features. The Nissan X-Trail will make its comeback in 2024. Kia will launch the new Carnival MPV, and finally, the Skoda Superb will get some updates. Sirish and Aatish give us an in-depth download on all these cars and SUVs launching in 2024.

The 2024 Dakar Rally is just around the corner, and Editor Sirish Chandran gets candid with Ashish Raorane, an Indian motorsport athlete who will be racing in the most gruelling rally in the world. They talk about how Ashish got into motorsports with the Indian National Rally Championship in 2015, and his growth as a motorcycle racer. Apart from training on the bike, he also explains the importance of diet, sleep, and other things that are necessary to keep oneself fit for rally racing. He also explains what it takes to race in Dakar; things like previous experiences, the costs involved, the skills, and a whole lot more. And to help him fuel his passion, Ashish also runs an off-road riding school, called Off Piste Racing, where he trains young and new riders and helps them build their careers in off-road racing.

We are at the end of 2023, and it has been a year filled with some amazing motorcycles and scooters. The big launches of the year included the Royal Enfield Super Meteor 650, the new Royal Enfield Himalayan (the Indian Motorcycle of the Year), Hero Karizma XMR, Hero Xtreme 160R 4V, Hero Xoom 110, the Harley-Davidson X 440 which was a result of Hero and Harley's collaboration; speaking of collabs, Triumph and Bajaj also joined forces to come up the Speed 400 and the Scrambler 400 X. And also from Chakan came the new KTM 390 Duke and the 250 Duke. On the electric front, we have the Orxa Mantis, TVS X, River Indie, Ather 450S, and the Kinetic Green Zulu. Karan Ramgopal and Mandar Sawant take a look at these launches and tell what they like, and don't like about them. They also share their two-wheeler highlights and give their top three picks from the list.

On this episode of the evo India podcast, join Sirish and Aatish as they dive deep into the world of automotive awards. They discuss the top eight contenders for the prestigious Indian Car of the Year (ICOTY), including the Toyota Innova Hycross, Hyundai Verna, Maruti Suzuki Fronx, MG Comet, Maruti Suzuki Jimny, Hyundai Exter, Honda Elevate and the Citroen C3 Aircross. They also discuss their standout cars of the year, explain why certain cars didn't make the cut and the ICOTY green awards. Sirish also provides valuable insights into the rigorous judging processes and measures in place, ensuring that the ICOTY selection is both fair and unbiased.