evo India Podcast
By evo India Podcast
evo India PodcastFeb 26, 2023
The Bajaj Story | Chetak, Pulsar, KTM, Triumph and everything in between | evo India Podcast
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.
The boss talks with Santosh Iyer, MD and CEO, Mercedes-Benz India | ep 1 | evo India podcast
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.
Tata Motors | From Making Trucks to Safest Cars in India | evo India Podcast
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.
Roads in India, with Adil Jal Darukhanawala | evo India Podcast
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.
Maruti Suzuki's Impact on the Indian Auto Industry, with Adil Jal Darukhanawala | evo India Podcast
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.
Upcoming Luxury Cars & EVs in India | Mercedes, Porsches, Maruti Suzuki, Mahindra & more | evo India
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
Upcoming Cars of 2024 | Polo, Thar 5 Door, New Creta, Swift, X-Trail & More | evo India Podcast
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.
Ashish Raorane on racing in the 2024 Dakar Rally | evo India Podcast
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.
Best Motorcycles (& Scooters) of 2023 | Indian Motorcycle of the Year Contenders | evo India Podcast
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.
Best cars of 2023 | Indian Car of the Year contenders | evo India podcast
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.
Kia EV6 | Why It Won The ICOTY Green Car of the Year Award | evo India Podcast
The Kia EV6 is the brand's first electric car and has the ICOTY Green Car of the Year Award! That does speak a lot about it. There are several factors that have helped the Kia EV6 bag this prestigious award. Starting with its styling, to its luxurious and spacious interiors that feel a class apart. The Kia EV6 is a born-electric car and doesn't share its platform with any ICE vehicle. It's a comfortable yet fun-to-drive family car that can sprint from 0 to 100kmph in just about 5s, thanks to its 226bhp, 350Nm dual motors. Kia has launched the top-most variant of the EV6 in India and pulled all the stops so that we Indians get the same experience with the EV6 as the rest of the world. Assistant Editor Aatish Mishra explains to Rohin Lalwani what makes the Kia EV6 worthy of this award.
World Motorcycle Day Podcast | In conversation with Deepak Gupta | evo India
It’s World Motorcycle Day and we’re celebrating it by of course going for a ride but also speaking to a hardcore motorcycle enthusiast, who lives and breathes motorcycles. Case in point is Deepak Gupta, who’s clocked over 16 lakh kilometres in his riding journey. Karan Ramgopal catches up with Deepak to talk about his riding journey — where and how it started, how it’s going, and what advice he has for aspiring motorcyclists.
In conversation with Narayan Subramaniam, CEO of Ultraviolette | Podcast | evo India
In this podcast, our Ed, Sirish Chandran, gets into a conversation with Narayan Subramaniam, CEO of Ultraviolette Automotive. They talk about Narayan's journey until now. How he has been an avid motorcyclist for a long time, and having owned and ridden multiple motorcycles has immensely helped in developing the Ultraviolette F77. It has also been made possible due to investment from Vishesh Rajaram, TVS Motor, and Dulquer Salmaan. Narayan also shares some secrets about the future of Ultraviolette and debunks a very common myth about the brand! He shares his thoughts about the co-existence of EVs and ICE vehicles in India, and the transition. And there's a whole lot more that the duo talk about.
Is the Volkswagen ID.2all the next Polo for India? Plus new GLC Coupe, Hero Shine 100 & Kia EV9 | evo news
In this episode of the news of the week, we talk about the new Volkswagen ID2.all concept – and affordable EV based on the MEB platform. We discuss the significance of the compact electric car along with along with its implications for India. Could this be the new Polo replacement, if localised and made more affordable? We also talk about the global unveils in the new Kia EV9, the Mercedes-Benz GLC Coupe and on two wheels, we discuss the launch of the Honda Shine 100 and Ola's recall.
In conversation with Piyush Arora, MD and CEO of Skoda Auto Volkswagen India | evo India podcast
In this podcast, we head out on a drive with Piyush Arora, the MD and CEO of Skoda Auto Volkswagen India and get chatting about a whole bunch of subjects. We start with his decision to switch over from Mercedes-Benz to SAVWIPL, and from there, we get in to the thick of things with the Group. We talk about the infrastructure in place today and how it came in to place, the platforms like the MQB-A0-IN that have caused a resurgence in sales and the future with electric cars from the volume brands like Skoda and Volkswagen. We also talk about safety – in the aftermath of the Kushaq and Taigun scoring a full five stars at the GNCAP tests. Being evo India, we had to touch upon motorsport and why VW gave up on their one-make championship in India, and we talk about the growth of the premium brands including Audi, Porsche and Lamborghini. Enjoy the podcast!
How to get into automotive Journalism | evo India podcast
On this episode of the evo India podcast, Sirish and Aatish discuss what it is like to be an automotive journalist and what it is like to get here. They discuss their experiences starting out in the industry, how things have changed over the last twenty years, what qualifications you need and what skills and temperament will see you through to being successful. Catch all this and a lot more in the latest episode of the thrill of driving podcast!
Join the evo India team 👇
Editorial internships: https://docs.google.com/forms/d/1j61UtCnPrkR8K7JhErxoI_KkVoXgNMuqv7SP4rw2OqA/viewform?edit_requested=true
Correspondent (work experience in journalism required): https://docs.google.com/forms/d/1m8dvNZ3i-d98891ViNZXfLGz6cSrnpBL8O8tHmXPcpQ/edit
Filmmaker: https://docs.google.com/forms/d/1cUuRJRvm_PzXVijPNqLhB4egOVPEwWQrqt5_qFk5r7M/edit
Tata's new Red Dark Safari, Harrier & Nexon, Hyundai Verna facelift and Ola announcement
In this week's news of the week show, we talk about the biggest launches of the last week which include the Red Dark editions of the Tata Nexon, Safari and Harrier including what you can expect on them and their prices. We also talk about the facelifted Hyundai Verna that we saw pictures of. It looks striking, but it has polarised opinions and we read out your comments on our social media about the Verna's styling. We also talk about Ola's new announcement about its integrated EV production facility in Tamil Nadu. This week we're mixing it up with both Sirish and Aatish hosting things. throwing plenty of perspective in there for good measure
Formula E comes to India | The highs and the lows | evo India podcast
On this edition of the podcast, our editor Sirish Chandran is in conversation with Adil Jal Darukhanawala summarising the 2023 Greenko Hyderabad E Prix. They discuss a range of topics including the popularity and significance of the sport, the unique rules and regulations that govern it, how it has evolved and also what panned out over the race weekend. Along with this, they also talk about the involvement of the Telangana government in hosting this event in Hyderabad, Mahindra Racing and the big question of whether Formula E is the future of motorsports.
What makes the 2023 Royal Enfield Super Meteor 650 so good | Thrill of Driving Podcast | evo India
The first new motorcycle we have ridden in 2023 is the Royal Enfield Super Meteor 650. It is a significant motorcycle — one that brings the big bike cruiser experience to the market. In this podcast, Aatish Mishra and Karan Ramgopal discuss exactly what makes the Super Meteor 650 such a great product — covering everything from how it rides, how it is priced and its rivals in the market. They also discuss the future of Royal Enfield and it’s plans for the Dakar!
Tata Curvv, Sierra EV, Harrier EV — Everything you need to know | 2023 Auto Expo | evo India
Tata Motors was on a roll at the 2023 Auto Expo with no less than six new SUVs showcased! From the highly anticipated Sierra EV, which is now closer to production and amazed us with its styling, to the highly unexpected Harrier EV which will bring back with it AWD for Tata. The Curvv coupe-suv, which will see production a lot sooner than you'd think, will debut with an all-new turbo-petrol engine. And also a more enthu-cutlet focussed version of the Altroz, complete with a manual 'box! We talk about when these cars will be launched, what drivetrains they will get, how much of the concepts will be retained and expected price and positioning of these SUVs. Give it a watch and don’t forget to like, comment and subscribe to evo India!
Celebrating 50 years of BMW M | Sirish’s greatest highlights | evo India
BMW M turns 50! There have been some absolute icons over the last few years and plenty of them have made their way to India as well. In this video, join Sirish Chandran as he looks back at his favourite M car memories in his 22 years of being an automotive journalist. Right from the E90 M3 with its V8 engine, the E60 M5 with its F1-derived V10, watching the rise of the Super SUVs, driving more contemporary M3s and M5s — Sirish is a treasure trove of experiences, and this is not an episode you want to miss!
The journey of Royal Enfield
Royal Enfield is a company that has an immense cult following today, making great bikes, accessories and quality riding gear. Apart from this, the company also has a strong sense of community with various rides and festivals to get RE riders together from all over the country. However, this was not always the case. In this edition of the evo India podcast, Adil Jal Darukhanawala, Rishad Cooper and Sirish Chandran get together and talk about Royal Enfield's journey in India and how far they've come after almost being on the brink of getting shut down.
Road safety and the Cyrus Mistry accident
In the aftermath of Cyrus Mistry’s tragic accident Adil Jal Darukhanawala and Sirish Chandran sit down to discuss the dismal state of affairs as regarding road safety in India. On the Thrill of Driving podcast the duo discuss the importance of seat belts even in the back seat, safety engineered into cars, and the importance of taking responsibility for their own safety. They also talk about holding the powers that be accountable for the dismal state of affairs on road quality and road design, while also pushing for better policing standards and stricter enforcement of rules.
Best SUV of 2021 | Sirish and Adil on the best SUV in India | TOD Podcast | evo India
In this episode of the Thrill of Driving Podcast Sirish Chandran and Adil Jal Darukhanawala dive deep into the heart of the SUV phenomenon talking about the designs, the trends and which one plasters the biggest smile on your face when it comes to the Thrill of Driving
Best cars of 2021 | Sirish & Adil on the best hatchbacks, sedans and SUVs
It’s been an eventful year for the evo India team and for the first Thrill of Driving Podcast of 2022 Sirish Chandran and Adil Jal Darukhanawala talk about the best hatchbacks, sedans and compact SUVs they drove in 2021 and debate on which one put the biggest smile on their face. In the upcoming episode of the podcast, Sirish and Adil will also be talking about the SUVs that delivered on the Thrill of Driving in 2021
Max vs Lewis vs FIA | Sirish & Adil on Abu Dhabi F1 Grand Prix 2021 finale | TOD Podcast | evo India
Thrill of Driving podcast is back where Sirish Chandran and Adil Jal Darukhanawala talk about the 2021 Formula 1 season in general and the shocking finale that was the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix. We discuss the rights and wrongs, who should be held accountable and more. While on the motorsport subject we also talk about Rossi impact on motorsport and his retirement plus how that will impact MotoGP in 2022. And of course we also talk about the new hybrid era in WRC and the fiasco that was round 1 of the Indian National Rally Championship.
Volkswagen Polo: India’s favourite enthusiast hatchback
Welcome to Episode 1 of Season 2 of the Thrill of Driving podcast! In this reboot, we’re doing things differently — giving news a pass and instead talking about things that the Indian car enthusiast wants to talk about! To get this series of the ground, we’re going to start by telling you everything you need to know about the Volkswagen Polo in India. In this free flowing conversation, Sirish Chandran and Aatish Mishra go back to even before the Polo was launched in India to when the media drives first happened abroad. They then trace the launch of the Polo in India, the various updates and engines it has had over the years, the launch of the GT variants, and everything else right up to the BS6 era when it got its latest update with the 1.0 TSI engine. They also talk about the possibility of the new MQB-based Polo coming to India! As an Indian automotive enthusiast, this is not an episode you want to miss!
In conversation with Veejay Nakra | The Thrill of Driving Podcast 62
In conversation with P B Venugopal | The Thrill of Driving Podcast 61
In conversation with Shashank Srivastava | The Thrill of Driving Podcast 60
In conversation with Uroš Rosa | The Thrill of Driving Podcast 59
In conversation with Partha Datta | The Thrill of Driving Podcast 58
All this and more in the latest episode of evo Conversations with editor Sirish Chandran. Head over to our website evoindia.com for an analysis of the new model hints Partha has dropped
In conversation with Parveen Agarwal | The Thrill of Driving Podcast 57
In conversation with Vivek Srivatsa | The Thrill of Driving Podcast 55
In conversation with Tarun Garg | The Thrill of Driving Podcast 54
In conversation with Shahid Haq | The Thrill of Driving Podcast 53
Shahid Haq talks about the Hyperion 1 concept that was showcased 4 years ago at the AutoExpo. He tells Ed Sirish Chandran about how the sports car was designed and developed and the ongoing work to get it into production, including sharing - exclusively for the first time out here - pictures of the final production sports car in this episode of #evoconversations with Rowe Motoroil India
In conversation with Dilip Chhabria | The Thrill of Driving Podcast 52
In this episode of #evoConversations with Rowe Motor Oil India, DC exclusively reveals to Ed Sirish Chandran that the Avanti will return in two years as an electric sports car. Development is currently underway in Switzerland, the price target is Rs 40 lakh and it will be based on the TCA concept.
In conversation with Suhail Chandhok | The Thrill of Driving Podcast 51
In conversation with Santosh Iyer VP Sales and Marketing Mercedes Benz India
In this episode of evoindia Conversations, Santosh talks to ed Sirish Chandran about how car ownership is set to increase, the fate of electric cars, efforts being undertaken at M-B India to deal with the Covid19 pandemic, the massive growth in AMG volumes in India, the best-selling AMG, and most importantly the new e-commerce platform being developed to enable you to buy a Mercedes from home MercFromHome.
A veteran of the auto industry, Santosh also has tips for youngsters. "Don't start with an MNC. Try your hand at entrepreneurship and take risks early in life", he says in this episode of evo Conversations with Rowe motor Oil India
In conversation with Narain Karthikeyan | Thrill of Driving Podcast 49
narain Karthikeyan 's story is inspirational and he laid the path that every other Indian racer has followed. And he continues to win races, continues to set lap records, continues to stay race fit and at the top of his game.
In conversation with Shana Parmeshwar | Thrill of Driving Podcast 48
In conversation with Boopesh Reddy | The Thrill of Driving Podcast 47
The above three are the 2015, 2016 and 2017 Official evo magazine Car of the year ecoty all in one garage and right here in India 😲
👉 Aston Martin DBS Coupe
👉Lamborghini Aventador SVJ 👉 Porsche GT2 RS
👉 Ferrari 488 Pista
👉 TechArt GT Street R based on the 911 Turbo S 👉 Lamborghini Huracan brenacan
👉 Mercedes AMG GT R
We also check out his Ducati, the Yamaha RX100 that he rode in college and he talks to ed Sirish Chandran about his epic love affair for cars.
Pratap Bose, VP, Global Design at Tata Motors on the different careers in automotive design | The Th
In conversation with Joel Joseph, Founder, Race Concepts | Thrill of driving Podcast 45
👉 How he built the all-conquering turbo-charged Honda City VTEC for the ITC races
👉 Building the 400bhp (at the wheel!) turbo-City for the street
👉 The 180bhp Zen modification, and what all can be done to the Maruti Suzuki Zen (Esteem engine is best, he says) plus the costs
👉 Working on a turbo for the KTM390Duke
👉 Turbo-charged Accord for the drag races
👉 Souping up a Tempo Traveller!
👉 Restoring old cars like the VW Beetle and E30 3 Series
👉 Plans for the R2-spec Cedia for rally
👉 Brake, suspension and body upgrades to handle increased power 👉 And much more
A must watch for car and bike enthusiasts, just to learn what all can be done to your road car to make it faster, safer and much more fun!
In conversation with Naveen Sony, Senior VP Sales and Service, Toyota Kirloskar Motor
After the lockdown was extended by another 17 days and that can only mean more stress for car dealers but Naveen says they've made every effort to ensure that "Covid is not a bad word for our dealers". He details the efforts made by Toyota on this front.
In conversation with Rajeev Chaba, President and MD, MG Motor India | Thrill of driving Podcast 43
👉 Gloster that is coming to India around Diwali and hinting at pricing anwhere between Rs 40 to 80 lakh
👉 G10 MPV that is plannned for next year
👉 Hector Plus which is coming soon
👉 Delays due to Covid19 that will delay launches by 4-6 weeks
👉 Compact sub-4 meter cars planned for next 2-3 years
👉 Enormous reception to the ZS EV
👉 Plans to bring a small, compact sportscar to connect with MG's heritage
👉 Address the China issue ("leaving politics to the politicians")
👉 And much more!
Products, the business, support to dealers ("we want to be their friend in tough times") and much more in this InstaLive with editor Sirish Chandran