Tata Motors Launches The All-New Intra V40; Strengthens Alternate Fuel Leadership In Small Commercial Vehicles & Pickups

Tata Motors, India’s largest commercial vehicle manufacturer, today accelerated its push in alternate fuel mobility with the launch of the all-new Intra V40, reinforcing its leadership in the fast-growing small commercial vehicle and pickup segment. Designed for high-load, high-efficiency operations, the Intra V40 combines CNG + petrol bi-fuel technology with a best-in-class payload of 1,525 kg and a 2,960mm (9.7ft) long load body, enabling operators to maximise earnings while ensuring uninterrupted operations across varied routes.

Powered by a 1.2-litre engine delivering 58 bhp of max power and 106 Nm of max torque, the Intra V40 is engineered to deliver strong performance with superior fuel efficiency for demanding last-mile applications. Its 110-litre CNG tank supports extended range, while the bi-fuel architecture ensures flexibility across fuel types and uninterrupted operations. Built on Tata Motors’ proven platform, it features a modern walk-through cabin, car-like driving dynamics, and front disc brakes for enhanced safety, control, and driver comfort over long operating hours. The vehicle is underpinned by a hydroformed chassis, delivering superior strength, stability, and refinement to ensure consistent, reliable performance in real-world conditions.

Commenting on the launch, Mr. Pinaki Haldar, Vice President & Business Head – SCVPU, Tata Motors Ltd., said, “The shift towards alternate fuels in last-mile cargo transport is accelerating, driven by the need for lower operating costs and greater flexibility. Tata Motors is at the forefront of this transition, with a clear focus on building the strongest and most comprehensive alternate fuel portfolio in the small CV and pickup segment. With the all-new Intra V40, we further strengthen our bi-fuel range and consolidate our leadership in alternate fuel mobility, while our expanding electric portfolio supports a calibrated transition towards greener last-mile transportation.”

With this launch, Tata Motors offers India's widest bi-fuel portfolio: Ace Pro Bi-fuel, Ace CNG 2.0, Intra V20 Gold, and the all-new Intra V40, spanning the full range of payload segments. Complemented by a rapidly expanding electric range — Ace Pro EV, Ace EV 1000, and Intra EV Pickup, this gives customers unmatched choice across fuel types, payload needs, and operating conditions, positioning Tata Motors as the most comprehensive provider of alternate fuel solutions in the segment.

The Intra V40 is backed by Tata Motors’ robust ownership ecosystem, including Sampoorna Seva 2.0 for end-to-end lifecycle support and Fleet Edge telematics for real-time insights, predictive maintenance, and uptime optimisation — enabling operators to maximise productivity and returns.

About Tata Motors Ltd (Formerly TML Commercial Vehicles Ltd):
Part of the USD 180 billion Tata Group, Tata Motors Ltd., (BSE: Scrip code 544569; NSE: Scrip code TMCV) is India’s largest and a globally renowned manufacturer of utility vehicles, pick-ups, trucks, and buses. With over eight decades of leadership in commercial mobility, the company is known for its innovation, reliability, and performance. Its advanced powertrains, connected technologies, and intelligent fleet solutions support a wide range of applications—from last-mile delivery to public transport while seamlessly driving the wheels of the nation’s economy. Guided by its brand promise Better Always, Tata Motors delivers future-ready solutions that enhance customer experience and drive sustainable growth. The company operates in India and South Korea, with a global presence across Africa, the Middle East, Latin America, Southeast Asia, and SAARC countries.

As per the Composite Scheme of Arrangement sanctioned by the Hon’ble National Company Law Tribunal, Mumbai Bench—amongst Tata Motors Limited, TML Commercial Vehicles Limited (the Company) and Tata Motors Passenger Vehicles Limited—the Company’s name was changed to Tata Motors Limited from TML Commercial Vehicles Limited (effective 29 October 2025), and its equity shares are listed on the BSE Ltd and the National Stock Exchange of India Limited.

Uber Invests In ONDC, Deepens Commitment With India's Digital Public Infrastructure

● First strategic investments by a global technology company in ONDC

● Strengthens collaboration to expand multimodal access from metro and bus ticketing to logistics

Uber, one of India’s leading ridesharing apps, today announced a strategic investment in the Open Network for Digital Commerce (ONDC) deepening its commitment to India's Digital Public Infrastructure (DPI) and its vision of building mobility and logistics solutions at population scale through open, interoperable networks.

The investment marks one of the earliest strategic investments by a global technology company in ONDC and underscores Uber’s growing confidence in India’s pioneering approach to digital infrastructure. The investment builds on Uber’s earlier integration with ONDC and signals a deeper alignment to unlock new avenues for how mobility and logistics are discovered, accessed, and delivered. As part of this investment, Uber will work closely with ONDC to expand access to multimodal transportation, including public transit integrations, while also strengthening its logistics capabilities to better serve businesses and independent earners on the network.

As India rapidly builds population-scale digital networks, Uber’s investment in ONDC reflects a long-term commitment to supporting open, inclusive platforms that empower consumers, drivers, and businesses alike.

Commenting on the investment, Prabhjeet Singh, President, Uber India and South Asia, said, "India has been at the forefront of building Digital Public Infrastructure that is inclusive, interoperable, and transformative at scale. Our ongoing partnership with ONDC and now this investment puts us at the heart of that innovation journey. By investing in this network, we're helping more people move, more businesses grow, and more earners thrive harnessing the power of the ONDC network.”

Adil Zainulbhai, Independent Director, ONDC, said, "ONDC is a key pillar of India’s efforts to democratize digital commerce and create a level playing field for businesses of all sizes. Uber’s investment is a strong endorsement of India’s Digital Public Infrastructure and its potential to drive innovation, efficiency, and inclusive growth."

Metro ticketing on Uber is live across 5 cities. More than 10 million metro rides have already been booked through the Uber app via ONDC network across India, underlining the growing popularity of integrated public transit solutions. Built through ONDC’s interoperable network, these integrations are part of Uber’s broader effort to bring public transport and last-mile mobility together in one seamless experience.

As India continues to build one of the world's most ambitious digital infrastructure ecosystems, Uber's investment in ONDC reflects its long-term bet on open networks as the foundation for the next generation of mobility and logistics services - ones that work for consumers, earners, and businesses across every corner of the country.

About Uber

Uber came to India in 2013 with a simple promise: press a button, get a ride. Over a decade later, Uber is live in more than 125 cities and has become #IndiaKiRide - helping millions move the way they need to, every day. From Bikes and Autos to Cars, Metros, and even Buses, Uber brings together India’s diverse mobility options on a single app. Whether it’s a short trip across town or a journey between cities, with a single swipe Uber makes everyday mobility seamless for millions - while enabling more than 2 million Indians to earn a sustainable income behind the wheel. As we continue to reimagine how the world moves for the better, our ambition keeps expanding, and our commitment remains unwavering: to keep India moving forward.

JW Marriott Appoints Aishwarya Rai Bachchan As New Global Brand Ambassador

* Advancing The Brand’s Well-Being Philosophy Through India’s Cultural Lens

* Elevating the brand’s global “Stay in the Moment” platform through one of India’s most respected and internationally acclaimed voices

JW Marriott, part of Marriott Bonvoy’s global portfolio of more than 30 brands, today announces its collaboration with Aishwarya Rai Bachchan as a Global Brand Ambassador. Through this, Aishwarya Rai Bachchan will elevate and bring renewed expression to the brand’s global “Stay in the Moment” platform, bringing a thoughtful, globally resonant perspective that deepens its relevance across key international markets.

The appointment signals both continuity and evolution. “Stay in the Moment” remains central to brand ethos – rooted in the legacy of J. Willard Marriott and a belief in holistic well-being, where guests are present in mind, nourished in body, and revitalized in spirit. As India continues to play an increasingly important role in global travel, the collaboration reflects a thoughtful recognition of its growing influence and connection to the brand’s global community.

JW Marriott currently operates more than 130 properties worldwide, with India representing one of its most dynamic portfolios and development pipelines. Indian travelers are the fastest-growing outbound luxury segments globally, while demand for premier domestic travel is steadily rising – driven by increased affluence, multigenerational journeys, and a growing appreciation for meaningful, experience-led stays. Within this context, the concept of staying present resonates deeply, reflecting a guest who seeks both refinement and a sense of purpose in how they travel.

Aishwarya Rai Bachchan’s appointment as a Global Brand Ambassador reflects this shared alignment. For over two decades, she has represented India on the global stage with distinction across cinema, fashion, philanthropy and international cultural platforms. Her career is defined not only by enduring visibility, but by credibility, discernment, and a rare sense of gravitas that reflects a life grounded in balance, built on integrity, resilience, unwavering authenticity, and a strong sense of purpose.

In the way, she navigates a global stage while remaining anchored in what matters most, she reflects a way of living that is both intentional and graceful. This sense of composure and clarity resonates with the brand’s philosophy of intentional luxury.

“Aishwarya’s global stature, warmth, and authenticity make her a natural embodiment of JW Marriott and an ideal partner for the brand,” said Bruce Rohr, Vice President and Global Brand Leader, JW Marriott. “She brings a thoughtful, grounded presence that reflects the way our guests seek to travel – with intention and a sense of connection. As we continue to expand in India and across markets shaped by Indian travelers, this collaboration reinforces our commitment to celebrating presence as the ultimate in luxury experiences.”

As a Global Brand Ambassador, Aishwarya Rai Bachchan will be featured across international brand campaigns and storytelling spanning film, print, and digital platforms, while also engaging in thoughtfully curated brand experiences in India and select global markets. The creative expression centers on moments of reflection, connection, and quiet sophistication within JW Marriott spaces – bringing to life environments intentionally designed to foster clarity, presence, and a sense of calm.

For Aishwarya Rai Bachchan, the association reflects a shared sensibility with the brand’s approach to holistic well-being and meaningful connections. “Travel has always been an important part of my life, both personally and professionally,” she said. “The most meaningful experiences are often the quietest ones, when you are fully aware of where you are and who you are with. JW Marriott’s philosophy of being present and in the moment speaks to that awareness. I am honored to represent a brand that values presence and purpose in equal measure.”

India remains a strategic priority for Marriott International, with a strong and expanding footprint across gateway cities and resort destinations. Through this JW Marriott collaboration with Aishwarya Rai Bachchan, the brand continues to reinforce its long-term commitment to the region and its intention to engage a new generation of luxury travelers through relevance, credibility, and emotional resonance. In aligning with one of India’s most respected global figures, JW Marriott affirms a vision of luxury defined by depth, composure, and a meaningful sense of presence. The “Stay in the Moment” platform continues to evolve globally, strengthened by a partnership that reflects India’s growing influence on the global stage.

About JW Marriott

JW Marriott is part of Marriott International’s luxury portfolio of brands and consists of beautiful properties and distinctive resort locations around the world. JW Marriott is a tribute to the founder of Marriott International, J. Willard “J.W.” Marriott, who prioritized his own well-being so that he could take better care of others. Inspired by his approach to life and rooted in holistic well-being, JW Marriott properties offer a haven designed to allow guests to focus on feeling whole – present in mind, nourished in body, and revitalized in spirit – through programs and offerings that encourage them to come together and experience every moment to the fullest. Today there are more than 130 JW Marriott hotels in 41 countries and territories worldwide that cater to sophisticated, mindful travelers who come seeking experiences that help them be fully present, foster meaningful connections and feed the soul. Visit JW Marriott online, and on Instagram and Facebook. JW Marriott is proud to participate in Marriott Bonvoy®, the global travel program from Marriott International. The program offers members an extraordinary portfolio of global brands, exclusive experiences on Marriott Bonvoy Moments and unparalleled benefits including complimentary nights and Elite status recognition. To enroll for free or for more information about the program, visit marriottbonvoy.com.

About Marriott Bonvoy®

Marriott Bonvoy’s extraordinary portfolio offers renowned hospitality in the most memorable destinations in the world, with more than 30 brands that are tailored to every type of journey. From The Ritz-Carlton and St. Regis to W Hotels and more, Marriott Bonvoy has more luxury offerings than any other travel program. Members can earn points for stays at hotels and resorts, including all-inclusive resorts and premium home rentals, and through everyday purchases with co-branded credit cards. Members can redeem their points for experiences including future stays, Marriott Bonvoy Moments™, or through partners for luxurious products from Marriott Bonvoy Boutiques®. To enroll for free or for more information about Marriott Bonvoy, visit marriottbonvoy.com.

Bhartiya Mall Of Bengaluru Strengthens Its Experiential Retail Portfolio With Sorele, Kameleo And Frido

Bhartiya Mall of Bengaluru continues to strengthen its position as one of North Bengaluru’s premier lifestyle and experiential retail destinations with the addition of emerging D2C and innovation-driven brands Sorele, Kameleo, and Frido.

The latest additions reflect a larger shift in consumer preferences, as shoppers increasingly seek brands that combine individuality, comfort, wellness, and experience-driven retail. As digitally native brands continue expanding into offline spaces, Bhartiya Mall of Bengaluru is evolving its retail mix to offer immersive and community-driven shopping experiences tailored to Bengaluru’s young, aspirational, and fast-growing consumer base.

Among the newest additions is Sorele, a contemporary fashion jewellery brand known for its minimalist yet modern and versatile collections, crafted with 18K gold plating and lab-grown Moissanite diamonds. Catering to Gen Z, working professionals, and urban families, the brand offers conscious luxury designed to transition seamlessly from workwear to occasion wear.

Enhancing the mall’s fashion portfolio is Kameleo, a customised fashion footwear brand focused on creativity and self-expression. Kameleo allows shoppers to personalise footwear by mixing and matching soles and straps across collections such as Candy, Poppi, and Twin, combining vibrant aesthetics with lightweight, all-day comfort for younger consumers seeking personalised fashion experiences.

The launch of Sorele and Kameleo at Bhartiya Mall of Bengaluru also marks the brands’ first-ever store within a mall format, reflecting a broader shift from high-street retail to destination-led experiential spaces.

Further strengthening the mall’s lifestyle and wellness offerings, Frido brings its ergonomics and comfort-led product range focused on posture support, mobility, and everyday wellness. As health-conscious living and functional lifestyle products gain traction among urban consumers, brands like Frido offering strongly aligns with the needs of today’s consumers, particularly young tech professionals within the Bhartiya Center of Information Technology ( a tech park within the Bhartiya City ecosystem), alongside families and wellness-conscious shoppers seeking comfort-driven innovations in their daily lives.

The addition of brands such as Sorele, Kameleo, and Frido highlights the growing momentum of digitally native and experiential brands expanding beyond online-first models to build stronger consumer engagement through physical retail environments. Increasingly, consumers want to physically experience and interact with the D2C brands they discover online, and Bhartiya Mall of Bengaluru is enabling that transition by bringing these brands closer to customers within an integrated lifestyle destination.

As North Bengaluru rapidly evolves into one of the city’s most dynamic residential and commercial growth corridors, Bhartiya Mall of Bengaluru continues to build a future-ready retail ecosystem that seamlessly integrates fashion, lifestyle, wellness, dining, and entertainment experiences under one destination. With over 5,000 families moving into North Bengaluru every month, the region is fast emerging as one of Bengaluru’s most high-growth real estate markets.

“At Bhartiya Mall of Bengaluru, we are seeing a strong shift in how digitally native brands approach offline retail. Today’s consumers discover brands online, but they increasingly want immersive physical experiences before making purchase decisions. Brands like Sorele and Kameleo choosing Bhartiya Mall of Bengaluru for their first mall stores reflects the strength of our ecosystem and the kind of consumer community we cater to, from young residents and working professionals to families and aspirational shoppers across North Bengaluru. With additions like Frido, we are also strengthening categories centred around wellness, comfort, and lifestyle innovation, which are becoming increasingly relevant for modern urban consumers,” said Jermina Menon, Brand & Marketing Strategist, Bhartiya Urban.

With an expanding mix of fashion, lifestyle, wellness, dining, and entertainment offerings, Bhartiya Mall of Bengaluru remains committed to delivering curated retail experiences aligned with the aspirations of Bengaluru’s next-generation consumers.

20% Of NPS Investors Are Under 30, With The Highest Equity Allocation At 61%

* FY 26 Data From Aditya Birla Sun Life Pension Fund Management Limited

FY26 data from Aditya Birla Sun Life Pension Fund Management Limited highlights a significant gap in India’s retirement savings journey. While India has a median age of just 28, only 20% of NPS subscribers are under 30, underscoring the untapped potential to drive early participation among young earners.

The bulk of NPS participation is concentrated among older investors, with the 30–60 age group accounting for 76% of all subscribers. By the time many Indians begin planning for retirement, they have already lost the biggest advantage long-term investing offers, time. In contrast, the under-30 segment, where even small and consistent contributions can compound meaningfully over decades, remains significantly underpenetrated.

The contribution numbers make this even clearer. The average subscriber under 30 contributes around ₹2,500 a month, while those between 55 and 60 invest nearly ₹18,000. Part of this gap reflects income levels, but it also reflects perspective.

Younger investors still have time on their side, allowing smaller, consistent contributions to compound over decades. Older investors, on the other hand, often contribute larger amounts because retirement is closer and the window to build a meaningful corpus is far narrower.

One bright spot in the Aditya Birla Sun Life Pension Fund Management data stands out. Under 30 investors allocate 61% of their NPS corpus to equities, higher than any other age group. The risk appetite is there. What is missing is consistency.

Furthermore, women represent just 23% of NPS subscribers. Given that women on average outlive men and face greater financial vulnerability in retirement, this is a gap with real consequences, not just for individuals, but for household retirement security across the country.

The NPS infrastructure is accessible and low cost. The awareness, clearly, still has a long way to go. What makes NPS particularly powerful for younger investors is the combination of compounding and disciplined investing. Even small monthly contributions, when invested consistently over long periods, can compound significantly.

The lock-in structure of NPS also plays an important role by encouraging long-term financial discipline and preventing premature withdrawals driven by short-term market movements or lifestyle spending. Over decades, these seemingly modest contributions can help solve for a much larger purpose: financial independence in retirement.

India is sitting on a demographic dividend with an expiry date. The young Indians who start now, contribute consistently, and stay invested may not see the real benefits for decades, but that is exactly what makes starting early so important, because time is the biggest driver of long-term compounding and retirement security.

Samarth E-Mobility Unveils Avore Electric, An Electric Mobility Brand Built On Intelligence Beyond Motion

* A fully in-house engineered electric vehicle brand, designed to bring the intuition and reliability of a connected device to every Indian rider

Samarth E-Mobility Pvt. Ltd. today announced the launch of Avore Electric, its electric mobility brand. Marking the debut with a brand film, website and social media platforms, Avore Electric introduces a new approach to electric mobility centred on engineering excellence in intelligence—a philosophy rooted in developing every critical technology system in-house.

Built on the belief that intelligence should not be a feature added to a two-wheeler but the foundation upon which it is envisioned, Avore Electric has been conceived around a single guiding principle: start with intelligence, then build the motorcycle around it. The brand's tagline, ‘Intelligence Beyond Motion’ reflects this vision.

Over the past three years, Samarth E-Mobility's team of more than 100 engineers has developed over nine critical systems entirely in-house at its dedicated R&D facility in Ahmedabad. These include a patented Battery Management System (BMS), battery pack, motor, motor controller, power control module, DC-DC converter, onboard fast charger, display system and proprietary operating system. The company has also filed more than 110 intellectual properties to date. This vertically integrated approach is powered by AVORE Source, the company's proprietary technology stack and the AVR platform, its purpose-built two-wheeler architecture. Together, they provide complete control over vehicle performance, reliability, software integration and the overall rider experience.

Built From the Ground Up

At the heart of Avore Electric, is a fully integrated technology ecosystem engineered and developed in-house. Built on AVORE Source and the AVR architecture, the platform brings together every major vehicle subsystem under a unified engineering framework.

More than nine critical systems have been designed, developed internally, enabling seamless integration across hardware and software. This approach allows for more intuitive response, peak performance, faster diagnosis, reduced downtime and continuous product improvements through software-led updates—delivering an ownership experience that evolves over time. With more than 110 intellectual property filings, Avore Electric is establishing a strong technological foundation in a market where many manufacturers continue to remain hardware dependent.

Targeting the Underserved Middle

Avore Electric’s first range of electric motorcycles is aimed at riders in the 125cc–200cc motorcycle segment, one of India's largest and most significant commuter and lifestyle categories. The motorcycles are being developed for riders seeking a practical electric alternative without compromising on performance, reliability, or everyday usability. Built on the AVR platform and engineered for real-world Indian riding conditions, Avore Electric's product portfolio is designed to address the evolving expectations of today's two-wheeler customers.

The brand plans to enter the market through a focused strategy built around product-led storytelling, consumer education, full stack component build and a differentiated ownership experience that reflects the intelligence embedded across every layer of the motorcycle.

Commenting on the launch, Mr. Priyank Rakholiya, Co-founder, Samarth E-Mobility, said "For three years, we asked ourselves a simple question, why does India's most widely used personal vehicle incorporate so little intelligence. We realised the answer wasn't a missing feature, it was a missing commitment. True intelligence cannot be assembled from off-the-shelf components; it must be engineered from the ground up. That's why we built every critical system in-house. Engineering excellence in intelligence is not a claim for us; it's a methodology that shapes every decision we make."

What’s Next

Samarth E-Mobility is preparing to introduce Avore Electric's first range of electric motorcycles in the Indian market. The launch of the brand, supported by its brand film, website and digital platforms, marks the beginning of a broader market-entry roadmap, with product announcements and campaign reveals planned in the coming months.

About Samarth E-Mobility

Samarth E-Mobility Pvt. Ltd. is a technology-first, innovation-led electric mobility company accelerating the adoption of electric two-wheelers through reliable, intuitive, intelligently engineered products. Guided by a Make in India philosophy, the company has spent three years developing a 100% indigenous technology stack at its R&D facility in Ahmedabad, Gujarat. Its 150+ member team has engineered more than nine critical components in-house — including a patented BMS, battery pack, motor, motor controller, onboard fast charger and proprietary operating system — and filed over 110 intellectual properties. Samarth E-Mobility’s first product range under the Avore Electric brand targets the 125cc–200cc ICE alternative segment and is designed to align with India’s clean mobility and Atmanirbhar Bharat priorities.

MAATI – The Crafts School will Organise A Two-Day Showcase From June 5-6 In Bengaluru

Dates: 5–6 June 2026

Venue: Flat Roof Building, SABHA, Bengaluru

Some art forms don’t belong in museums. They belong in homes, in daily conversations, and in the hands of people who appreciate the story behind the object.

MAATI – The Crafts School, an initiative by Kadam India supported by the Tata Trusts, is bringing an immersive two-day showcase to Bengaluru. The exhibition celebrates the living traditions of hand-painted Madhubani art alongside contemporary Bihar craftsmanship. This curated exhibit is designed for textile connoisseurs, art and culture tastemakers, conscious textile retailers, architects, interior designers, collectors, and anyone drawn to authentic legacy artistry.

The heart of the showcase is four women artisans traveling from MAATI’s clusters in Madhubani and Darbhanga. This is a rare opportunity to meet the makers and engage directly with their creative processes and explore handcrafted textile collections that bridge generations of visual memory with contemporary living.

Beyond design, the exhibition carries a real-world urgency. MAATI works in regions of Bihar where recurring climate and environmental challenges threaten traditional ways of life year after year. By creating direct market access and nurturing independent creative enterprises, the initiative supports artisan communities in building long-term, climate-resilient livelihoods.

We invite you to experience the work, meet the artisans, and join the conversation around handmade futures.

Exhibition Details & RSVP:

Dates: 5–6 June 2026

Venue: Flat Roof Building, SABHA, Bengaluru

Inquiries & RSVPs: info@maaticraftschool.com OR Simran Girish (SGirish@webershandwick.com/ 98206 21734)

Instagram: @maatithecraftschool