oraimo Launches Freepods 4 Wireless Earbuds In India

* Exclusively available on Flipkart, FreePods 4 are equipped with the latest ANC technology

* 5 EQ modes to customise your taste with the all-new oraimo Sound app

oraimo is set to launch FreePods 4 in India to offer affordable yet top-notch technology and quality devices to young customers. Designed for those who prefer quality sound without compromising on comfort, FreePods 4 gives crystal-clear calls and an immersive listening experience in busy and noisy environments.

Features

The premium wireless earbuds are equipped with the latest ANC technology which can reduce up to 30dB of noise. Additionally, it boasts an advanced 4-mic Proprietary Beamforming Array and AI Deep Neural Network algorithm that can accurately detect and reduce noise in calls.

The all-new Transparency Mode in the device gives listeners the flexibility to reconnect with the surroundings without removing the earbuds. It also features a low-latency gaming mode that reduces audio delay and ensures seamless connectivity. The device comes with a slide-to-open feature while the anti-drop magnets keep the pods tucked safely even with a bit of a shake.

Long-lasting battery life

In addition to its fast-charging technology, the FreePods 4 comes with an impressive battery life of up to 35.5 hours of music listening. A 10-minute Quick Charge can provide up to 170 minutes of battery life.

Match your musical taste with the all-new oraimo Sound App

With unmatched sound quality, FreePods 4 provides audiophiles and music lovers with the tools to create their exclusive styles. One can seamlessly turn the audio on the newly introduced oraimo Sound app which allows to choose from five EQ modes, adjust the touch controls, switch between noise control modes, and even find the earbuds in case they are lost with Find My Device feature.

Lightspeed connectivity

One can easily connect their devices to FreePods 4 in a matter of seconds with Google Fast Pairing by simply taking the earphones out of their case and turning on Bluetooth on the device. The earbuds come with a highly sensitive sensor that precisely reacts to the requests, so listeners can effortlessly change the music, answer calls, and adjust the volume levels with a press or quick touch.

Durability and safety redefined

FreePods 4 is IPX5 splashproof and has sweat protection that prevents moisture damage, making it a perfect companion for intense workouts and outdoor activities in the rain. Furthermore, the product comes with antibacterial ear tips reducing the risk of bacterial and fungal infections.

Price and availability

The FreePods 4 is priced at INR 1,999 and will be exclusively available on Flipkart beginning June 8th at a launch price of INR 1,599.

Adding to the fashion statement of young users, the stylish FreePods 4 is the ideal TWS for anybody looking for high-quality sound without compromising on comfort. Slide, wear and play to experience ultimate tranquillity.

“We are thrilled to introduce FreePods 4 to the Indian market. We have also integrated it with advanced ANC technology to offer the best and noise-free calling experience at affordable pricing. We are confident that FreePods 4 will capture the hearts and ears of young Indian listeners by enabling them to immerse in their favourite audio content, said Sachin Kapoor, BU Head, oraimo India.

To know more, visit https://in.oraimo.com/

About oraimo

oraimo is the world's leading smart accessories brand, sold in 50 countries with more than 200Mn loyal customers. We strive to deliver the most enjoyable experience to our customers with a wide range of products, ranging from power banks, audio and more. With more than 1100 service centers in India, oraimo has the second largest service network in the country. We started to manufacture products in India to support the Make In India movement and invested significantly in building a better network covering manufacturing, aftersales, logistics, and supply chain.

Ruchira Srivastava Has Been Shifted To HR Leadership At Essel Group

After almost 14 years of service in Zee Media Corporation Limited, Ms. Ruchira Srivastava has been now shifted from Zee Media Corporation Limited to lead the HR function of group companies associated with Essel Group in Noida. In her new role, she will help in building people practices for other Group companies.

A spokesperson at Essel group said, “We are confident that she will be able to manage the expectations of all stakeholders considering her performance record over the years”.

About Essel Group: Essel Group is among India’s most prominent business houses with a diverse portfolio of assets in media, packaging, entertainment, technology-enabled services, infrastructure development, and education. The Group started business in 1926 with a commodity trading and export firm, Rama Associates Limited, and has since then metamorphosed into a conglomerate that is a symbol of the ingenuity and power of Indian entrepreneurship, with worldwide operations and a workforce of nearly 8,000 dedicated employees.

Greenply Industries Promises A Greener Future With The Launch Of “Green Vision” Pledges To Plant 50 Million Saplings By 2025

~ Greenply has already planted around 24.85 million saplings till March 31st, 2023, covering an area of nearly 31,714 acres of plantation land, and pledges to take this number to 50 million by 2025 ~ 

Greenply Industries, one of India’s largest interior infrastructure brands with over 30 years of experience in manufacturing a comprehensive range of plywood, block boards, MDF, decorative veneers, flush doors, and other allied products announced the pledge to plant 50 million saplings by the year 2025 which is aimed at environmental conservation and sustainable development. The company plans to plant these saplings across the states of Gujarat, Nagaland, Uttar Pradesh and West Bengal. Besides environmental protection, the plantation activity will help in sustainable procurement of raw material and the financial viability of the ecosystem while generating employment opportunities for the local communities where the organization functions.  

With an ever-growing focus on environmental responsibility and the insistent need to combat climate change, Greenply Industries recognizes the significance of committed involvement in creating a greener future. By setting this ambitious target, the company aims to contribute substantially to the restoration of forests, combat deforestation, and boost the overall ecological balance. 

Commenting on the occasion, Mr. Manoj Tulsian, Joint Managing Director & CEO, Greenply Industries, said, “Our pledge to plant 50 million samplings by 2025 is an extension to our commitment towards environment and sustainability. Environment Social Governance has become an integral part of decision-making for Greenply, and the company has been undertaking activities beyond tree plantation to keep its environmental impact under check, to reduce emissions and move towards renewable energy generation. In the coming years, the focal point in our sustainability agenda will be to objectively consider all potential sustainability impacts that might affect both our business and stakeholders, going beyond the financial and strategic risks we currently take into consideration.” 

Greenply has already implemented various sustainable practices and initiatives throughout its operations. The company continuously invests in advanced technologies and processes to minimize its carbon footprint and enhance resource efficiency. By extending its efforts to reforestation, Greenply Industries aims to create a virtuous cycle of sustainable development that benefits both the company and the environment. 

About Greenply Industries Limited: 

Greenply Industries Limited (GIL), is India’s leading interior infrastructure company in the manufacturing and marketing of Plywood, Block board, Flush doors, Decorative Veneers, PVC and other allied products.  The company has a widespread presence in over 900 cities, towns, and villages across 28 states and 6 union territories, serviced through a well-entrenched distribution network. 

Greenply is the first in the wood & panel industry to have successfully acquired the FSC® – FM (Forest Management) Certification from Forest Stewardship Council (FSC®) for its plantations in Tizit, Nagaland. This certification addresses our aim to maintain ecological harmony and provides an assurance to consumers that the products they purchase are sourced sustainably. Keeping consumer health & well-being in mind, Greenply became India’s first to introduce Zero Emission (E-0) products to ensure the plywoods meet the international emission standards set by CARB & EPA keeping the indoor air quality safe for the occupants and the craftsmen of interiors. The company has always been actively driving product innovations, from introducing the 4 Press Technology and Penta 5 Tech to offer defect-free products to launching Virashield to address the need to fight viruses and bacteria for safe health and now the latest information to offer health-safe products through the E0 innovation. 

TVS Eurogrip Tyres Is “Technical Partner” For PETRONAS TVS One Make Championship 2023 For Fifth Year

* Further strengthens its presence in the racing circuit 

TVS Srichakra Ltd., one of India’s leading manufacturers of 2 & 3-wheeler and off-highway tyres will power the PETRONAS TVS One Make Championship as ‘Technical Partner’ for fifth year in a row. The partnership entails a strategic collaboration between Eurogrip and TVS Apache series.  All motorcycles throughout the championship will race with custom designed TVS Eurogrip tyres. The first racing event of the year happened over the weekend (3rd-4th June) at Kari Motor Racetrack, Coimbatore.  

The 2023 edition of TVS One Make Championship will see TVS Eurogrip’s flagship products Protorq Extreme (Zero Degree Steel Belt Radial tyres) and Remora performing on the TVS Apache RR 310 and TVS Apache RTR 200 motorcycles. 

TVS Racing pioneered the One Make Championship since 1994 and has thus expanded the program into four categories in India – Rookie, Women’s, Media and Expert. These races take place alongside the prestigious Indian National Motorcycle Racing. Additionally, TVS Racing organised the first ever Asia One Make Championship in 2022 on the sidelines of Asia Road Racing Championship. 

Speaking about the partnership, Mr. V Sivaramakrishnan, Chief Technology Officer (R&D), TVS Srichakra Ltd, said, “Partnering with TVS One Make Championship as the ‘Technical Partner’ for the fifth year in a row is prestigious for us and shows our commitment towards building quality products that perform on the track. I am sure Protorq Extreme, our flagship zero-degree steel belted radials will give the racers the confidence to push their limits and excel on the racing circuit. Wishing the racers all the very best and look forward to all the action in TVS One Make Championship-2023.” 

Mr. P Madhavan, Executive Vice President, TVS Srichakra Ltd. said, “As we continue building Eurogrip as a strong brand in the racing space, we are happy to continue with our technical partnership of the TVS One Make Championship and remain committed towards strengthening two-wheeler racing in India. Racing is the ultimate test for the quality of our products and we have been receiving very good feedback and testimonials from the racers on the performance of our tyres in the last few years. We will continue strengthening our premium product range and offering world-class high-performance products.” 

Commenting on the collaboration, Mr Vimal Sumbly, Head Business – Premium, TVS Motor Company said, “TVS Racing has been instrumental in nurturing and developing young talent in the world of motorsports, and the PETRONAS TVS One Make Championship is a testimony to our commitment. We are thrilled to partner with TVS Srichakra Ltd for this. TVS Eurogrip tyres offer high-performance to our racers on the track, thereby enhancing their confidence while riding their TVS Apache motorcycles, and clocking in exemplary lap timings. We are sure to witness another exciting race season together this year.”  

About TVS Racing: 

TVS Racing, a pioneer in building Motorsports in India since 1982, has been integral in growing the racing performance culture and has been pivotal in engineering the TVS Apache series through the company’s “Track to Road” strategy.  The brand has redefined the sports segment by focusing on race performance, making it a highly desirable product for sports enthusiasts.  This has resulted in TVS Apache and TVS NTORQ 125 becoming the fastest growing brands in their respective segments.  TVS Racing is also the pioneer of the One Make Championship in the country, the first Indian manufacturer to introduce the series in India in 1994.  

Stakeholder Consultation For Enabling EV Ecosystem

To melt the “ICE” on the road to save the ICE on the glaciers, SIDBI has resolved to prioritize the national mission for e-mobility i.e. EV30@30 through its Mission EVOLVE with support from NITI Aayog and financial assistance of The World Bank, Korea-World Bank Partnership Facility and Korean Economic Development Cooperation Fund (EDCF). SIDBI conceptualised EVOLVE (Electric Vehicle Operations and Lending for Vibrant Ecosystem) and shaped it with inputs from 550+ stakeholders covering all regions of the Nation.  SIDBI has already launched two financing schemes viz. Direct lending to MSMEs and Scheme for lending to NBFCs. Addressing the challenges of high interest rates and limited availability of financing to the EV sector, EVOLVE unlocks access to affordable commercial financing for EV Loans thereby fostering an organic transition to sustainable electric vehicles, including hosting of telematics that could help reduce financing costs and provide data for other financial services. To deliberate on the above broad themes and launch two products of Evolve for energising EV Eco-System under the first of the schemes to finance 50,000 EVs (‘50K-EV4ECO’), a Stakeholder Consultation was organised at The Claridges, New Delhi which was attended by large number of key representatives from EV ecosystem. During Q&A session clarifications were rendered on the two products shaped under Evolve.  

Sanction letters for 50KEV4ECO were handed over to the beneficiaries which will bring around 5000 2/3w EVs on the road shortly. The beneficiaries include M/s Aristo Securities Private Limited, M/s Mufin Green Finance Limited, M/s EV Motors Pvt Ltd and M/s Techsofin Private Limited, etc. Proposals for another 25000 EVs are in the pipeline. Letters for empanelment were handed over to several EV OEMs for coverage of their EVs under financial and other developmental support under “50KEV4ECO” and to further prepare under “EVolve”. Any value chain actor in EV space can connect with any of the SIDBI offices, pan India.  

Mr. Kim Kisang, Chief representative from Economic Development Cooperation Fund (EDCF) informed that Korean Government will extend the support for the Evolve program which will address the key barriers in adoption of EVs in India as well as knowledge sharing between both the countries. 

Mr Gerald Ollivier, Lead Transport Specialist, The World Bank gave his perspective towards the journey of EVOLVE program and the move from initial transformation to scaling up of use of EVs in the country. Evolve is being designed to support around 1.5 million EVs and build the ecosystem in the mobility segment. The EVolve approach will seek to leverage the carbon credit to be generated by the program and same may be used to mobilise for the benefit of the beneficiaries. 

Shri S Ramann, CMD, SIDBI highlighted the opportunities that accompany EVs and emphasized upon creating a database of EV ecosystem to understand and extend the life of the EVs as also expressed SIDBI’s commitment to increase the finance flow towards creating green assets. The data would be available for policy makers to assess the gaps and further strengthen the EV ecosystem. SIDBI will keep playing the developmental role in the niche and green activities with the support of multilateral and bilateral. 

Shri Sudhendu Sinha, Adviser (Infra & e-mobility), NITI Aayog said “ To support India’s commitment to EV30@30, SIDBI Mission50K-EV4ECO scheme is a step in right direction. This shall enable access to affordable financing for electric vehicles. The sanction offered to beneficiaries under both the schemes of SIDBI is an appreciated effort and many more miles to go in this EV transitional journey. “ 

The Federation of Automobile Dealers Associations Releases May’23 Vehicle Retail Data

Auto retail sales in May demonstrated a 10% YoY growth, encompassing positive performances across all vehicle categories including 2W, 3W, PV, Tractor and CV with respective growth rates of 9%, 79%, 4%, 10%, and 7%. 

Despite a slight decline of -2% compared to pre-COVID levels, the overall retail figures relatively improved, except 2W sales (-8%) and CV sales (-7%) being the primary segments which experienced slight setback. 

May showcased an increased penetration of EVs, accounting for 8% of total sales, with 2W contributing 7%, 3W contributing 56%, CV contributing 0.5% and PV contributing 2.5% respectively. 

2W sales were positively influenced by the marriage season and the anticipated changes in FAME subsidies, set to be effective from June, which drove higher sales of 2W EVs. The recovery of rural demand also indicated a promising outlook, suggesting the potential decline of COVID-19's impact. 

The PV segment rebounded after a decline in the previous month, driven by improved availability, strong pending orders and robust demand for new launches, contributing to the segment's positive momentum. 

CV sales experienced sustained growth, attributed to the government's focus on infrastructure development, with the bus segment also displaying a notable increase due to improved financing options and higher sales in academic institutions. 

The Federation of Automobile Dealers Associations (FADA) released Vehicle Retail Data for May’23.  

May’23 Retails 

Commenting on May 2023 performance, FADA President Mr. Manish Raj Singhania stated, "May has been an encouraging month for the auto retail industry, demonstrating a robust 10% YoY growth across all vehicle categories. We have witnessed a resurgence in the 2W, 3W, PV, Tractor, and CV segments with growth rates of 9%, 79%, 4%, 10%, and 7% respectively. While there has been a slight -2% decline compared to pre-COVID levels, the overall retail figures have shown improvement. The 2W and CV sales did continue to face some challenges, recording high single digit setback of -8% and -7% respectively. 

Electric Vehicles (EVs) made impressive strides this month, contributing to 8% of the total vehicle retail. This was buoyed by a surge in 2W EV sales that contributed 7% and 3W EV sales contributing a substantial 56% of their respective total sales. The CV and PV categories also marked their presence in the EV landscape, with respective contributions of 0.5% and 2.5%. 

The 2W sales were positively influenced by seasonal factors like the marriage season, changes in the FAME subsidies effective from June, and the recovery of rural demand, which hint towards a promising future in the aftermath of the COVID-19 pandemic. 

In the Passenger Vehicle segment, the improved availability of vehicles, the strength of pending orders, and the robust demand for new launches drove a positive momentum, helping the segment rebound after a slump in the previous month. 

The Commercial Vehicle segment experienced sustained growth, underpinned by the government's focus on infrastructure development. The bus segment displayed a notable increase, driven by improved financing options and higher sales in academic institutions. 

As we move forward, we remain committed to our customers and will continue to navigate these dynamic times, providing them with the best products and services that cater to their ever evolving needs and preferences." 

Near Term Outlook 

The auto retail sector faces diverse challenges across the 2W, CV and PV segments. For 2W, seasonal factors could boost demand, but concerns like weather-induced walk-in reductions, inventory, and regulatory norms persist. The CV sector anticipates improved vehicle availability but concerns about RDE norms and seasonal effects may impact sales. The PV sector expects increased demand, particularly for new models, Compact & full-sized SUVs and EVs, but inventory pressure and right model availability could pose challenges. 

FADA advocates for a balanced auto retail ecosystem, urging collective action to regulate inventory levels, negotiate lower interest rates and support 2W Dealers by eliminating illegal MBO sales. While acknowledging near-term challenges, FADA maintains a stance of cautious optimism, highlighting the potential for growth through collaborative efforts and alignment with market trends. 

The anticipated stable interest rates by RBI's Monetary Policy Committee could maintain vehicle demand and positively impact auto sales. However, supply chain issues, demand-supply dynamics, and regulatory changes also play a role in shaping the auto retail outlook. 

Key Findings from our Online Members Survey 

Inventory at the end of May’23 

Average inventory for Passenger Vehicles ranges from 40-45 days 

Average inventory for Two – Wheelers ranges from 15-20 days 

Liquidity 

Neutral              42.65% 

Good                 37.75% 

Bad                      19.61% 

Sentiment 

Neutral              43.63% 

Good                   32.84% 

Bad                      23.53% 

Bank of Baroda Becomes The First PSU Bank To Offer Interoperable “Cardless Cash Withdrawal (ICCW) Facility” Using UPI On Its ATMs

* Customers Of All Participating Banks Who Use An UPI App Enabled For ICCW Can Withdraw Cash From Bank of Baroda ATMs 

* Eliminates skimming, card cloning and other card related frauds  

Bank of Baroda (Bank), one of India’s leading public sector banks announced the launch of Interoperable “Cardless Cash Withdrawal” (ICCW) facility using UPI on its ATMs. The first Public Sector Bank to launch this service, Bank of Baroda customers as well as customers of other participating issuer banks that use BHIM UPI, bob World UPI or any other UPI application enabled for ICCW on their mobile phone can withdraw cash from a Bank of Baroda ATM without using their Debit Card.  

On selecting the option ‘UPI Cash Withdrawal’ at a Bank of Baroda ATM, the customer needs to enter the withdrawal amount, post which a QR code is displayed on the ATM screen. The customer will scan the QR code using a UPI app enabled for ICCW and then authorise the transaction with her/his UPI PIN on the mobile phone to withdraw the cash from the ATM. If multiple bank accounts are linked to a single UPI ID, ICCW functionality gives customers the option to select the account to be debited.  

Some of the major benefits of the ICCW facility are that skimming, cloning and other card-related frauds can be eliminated. It also generates a single use (signed) dynamic QR code for every transaction for risk mitigation. Further, customers need not carry multiple cards to withdraw cash from different accounts as ICCW allows cash withdrawals from multiple accounts linked to UPI. Customers whose KYC has been completed and who have not been issued a physical card as yet can avail of this service.  

At the launch, Shri Joydeep Dutta Roy, Executive Director, Bank of Baroda said, “We are delighted to launch Interoperable Cardless Cash Withdrawals (ICCW) – a service enabled across our 5,393 ATMs and designed to make cash withdrawals even more hassle-free and convenient for customers. Given the popularity of UPI and being interoperable across banks, ICCW has the potential to revolutionise how cash withdrawals are made by new generation customers.”  

Speaking on the occasion, Shri Akhil Handa, Chief Digital Officer, Bank of Baroda said, “As a digital-first bank, our aim is to be at the forefront of the digital revolution sweeping across the banking industry – elevating customer experience and convenience in the process. The new ICCW facility being offered by Bank of Baroda gives customers the freedom to withdraw money without the use of a physical card – a simple, convenient and secure way to withdraw cash.” 

Customers can avail two transactions a day per account with a withdrawal limit of Rs. 5000/- per transaction.