Category: NEW PRODUCTS
Piaggio Vehicles launches the all-new Apé E-City Ultra and the Apé E-City FX Maxx
Speaking on the occasion, Mr. Diego Graffi, Chairman & MD, Piaggio Vehicles Pvt. Ltd., said,
“India is undergoing a major shift towards electric mobility, and three-wheelers are leading this transformation on the ground. We believe EVs are an opportunity to reshape urban transport and improve livelihoods. New Apé E-City Ultra and Apé E-City FX Maxx are being built with these realities in mind. They deliver what the Indian customer needs: best in cl-ass range, low battery degradation, strong performance, and minimal operating costs. These vehicles are enablers of economic mobility. As the Pioneers of EVs in the three-wheeler space, Piaggio is proud to support India’s net-zero vision with smart, future-ready solutions that can scale across cities and small towns alike. Our focus is not only on innovation but also on contributing to a more inclusive and sustainable future.”
Speaking on the occasion, Mr. Amit Sagar, Executive Vice President CV Domestic Business and Retail Finance, Piaggio Vehicles Pvt. Ltd., said, “The electric passenger three-wheeler segment is evolving quickly, with customers increasingly seeking vehicles that offer longer range, reliable battery life, and lower running costs. The Apé E-City Ultra and the Apé E-City FX Maxx have been developed keeping these needs at the centre. With a certified range up to 236 km, strong power delivery, and industry-best battery technology with minimal degradation, these vehicles are built for daily use in demanding city conditions. The vehicles also come with superior warranty of 5 years/2,25,000 km, providing added assurance. We are confident that these products will support the user’s livelihood due to its low charging costs, reduced maintenance, and higher uptime, making them a smart choice for profitable and sustainable mobility.”
The new Apé E-City Ultra is designed for high efficiency with a host of powerful features:
- Best-in-cl-ass certified range of 236 km
- Peak power of 9.55 kW with fast pickup and strong torque of 45 Nm
- Top speed of 55 kmph, enabling quicker trips and higher turnaround efficiency
- 28% gradeability, ideal for flyovers and hilly roads
- Climb Assist Mode for instant power when needed
- 10.2 kWh LFP battery with 3 kW charger for quick charging and lower downtime
- Category leading 5-year / 2,25,000 km warranty
- Digital speedometer showing battery level (SOC), range (DTE), speed, and system alerts
- Smart 4G Telematics with live tracking, geo-fencing, and Remote immobilization.
- Robust build quality with a strong metal body
The Apé E-City FX Maxx, Piaggio’s trusted electric model, now comes with enhanced power and range:
- Certified range of 174 km per charge
- Peak motor power at 7.4 kW
- Gradeability of 19%, with a torque output of 30 Nm
- 8.0 kWh battery delivering consistent energy output over time
- Prismatic cell technology ensuring minimal battery imbalance and extended life
- Smart energy monitoring for controlled battery degradation
The Apé E-City FX Maxx is launched at a starting price of ₹3,30,000/- and the Apé E-City Ultraat ₹3,88,000/- Ex Showroom, India. Both models will be available at Piaggio dealerships across India.
Honasa Consumer Limited elevates Vipul Maheshwari to lead Product and Data Analytics
Honasa Consumer Limited, home to renowned brands like Mamaearth, The Derma Co., Aqualogica, Bblunt, Dr. Sheth’s, and Staze Beauty, today announced the elevation of Vipul Maheshwari as Senior Vice President – Product and Data Analytics. This strategic appointment underscores Honasa’s focus on leveraging data-driven innovation to reshape India’s beauty and personal care landscape.
Vipul has been an integral part of Honasa for the past four years, bringing extensive experience in analytics and data science to manage the complete data lifecycle—from efficient collection to advanced analysis. By leveraging data analytics to monitor business health and address challenges proactively, Honasa has built a robust framework that supports sustainable, data-driven solutions. In his new role, Vipul will lead this continued integration of advanced analytics for product development, further enhancing Honasa’s diverse brand portfolio.
Commenting on the appointment, Varun Alagh, Co-founder and CEO of Honasa Consumer Limited, said, “Data-driven decision-making has always been at the core of our growth, shaping how we understand and serve our customers. Vipul’s expertise in turning complex data into actionable insights has been instrumental in our growth journey. He has been working with a leadership mindset for years and this role is a natural next step for him.”
Speaking on his new role and development, Vipul Maheshwari, SVP & Head of Product and Data Analytics, Honasa Consumer Limited said, “The beauty and personal care industry is at an exciting intersection of product advancement and technological innovation. I’m honored to lead Honasa’s efforts in leveraging advanced analytics and product development to create more personalized, efficient, and delightful experiences for our consumers.”
Vipul brings extensive experience in leveraging existing data infrastructure to solve complex business challenges. An alumnus of the Indian Institute of Technology, Delhi, with a master’s degree in mathematics and computer science, Maheshwari has previously held key positions at Delhivery and Global Analytics India Pvt Ltd, where he pioneered several data-driven business solutions.
Honasa Consumer Limited recently appointed Dr. Kaustav Guha as Vice President of Research & Development to focus on developing cutting-edge technologies to enhance formulations and products across all Honasa’s brands. It has also recently launched its winter skincare range of moisturizing products across four of its brands: Mamaearth, Aqualogica, Dr. Sheth’s, and The Derma Co.
The Growing Giraffe: Brand shaping healthier eating habits for children from an early age
Poor nutrition in childhood can contribute to obesity, weakened immunity, and long-term health risks. Recognizing this, The Growing Giraffe, a brand committed to providing wholesome nutritious snacks, is reshaping the way parents approach children’s nutrition. With the relaunch of its improved product line, the brand aims to instill healthy eating habits from an early age, offering zero-junk, nutrient-rich snacks that cater to the dietary needs of growing children. The brand’s newly enhanced snacks are free from refined sugar, refined flour, artificial preservatives, and palm oil, making them a superior alternative to conventional options. Packed with superfoods like oats, cacao nibs, and millet, these products are high in fibre and antioxidants, promoting overall well-being for children.
“Poor diets in early childhood can lead to severe deficiencies in essential vitamins and nutrients, weakening immunity and increasing the risk of long-term health issues like obesity, poor cognitive development, and even chronic diseases later in life. Many parents struggle to find safe, nutritious, and affordable food options for their children, especially in today’s market, where snacks labeled as ‘healthy’ often contain hidden sugars and processed ingredients,” said Rukmini Banerji, Founder of The Growing Giraffe.
She added, “As a mother, I have always been conscious of what my child consumes. At The Growing Giraffe, we are committed to bridging this gap by offering truly nutritious, high-fiber, and junk-free snacks. With this rebrand, we have aligned our products even more closely with our vision of fostering healthier eating habits among children. Our goal is to provide a guilt-free snacking experience for parents who want the best for their kids while ensuring that every bite is packed with quality and health.”
The newly improved product line consists of seven SKUs across three variants: cookies, crackers, and bars, each offering essential nutrients for growing children. The cookie range includes Ragi, Multigrain, and Honey & Oat flavors, providing calcium, iron, and fiber for bone health, digestion, and sustained energy. The cracker line, made with amaranth millet, features Spinach, Cheese, and Tomato variants, packed with protein, essential amino acids, and natural vitamins from real vegetables. Additionally, the Cacao Peanut Butter Bar serves as a nutritious, protein-rich energy boost, making it an ideal on-the-go snack.
Pricing remains affordab;e, with cookies and bars available at Rs. 199 for 160g and Rs. 49 for 40g, while crackers are priced at Rs. 99 for 100g. Each product has been crafted with carefully selected ingredients to support children’s immunity, digestion, and overall health.
In an era where processed, sugar-laden snacks dominate the market, The Growing Giraffe stands apart by offering clean-label, nutrient-dense options that parents can trust. Unlike conventional snacks that are high in empty calories, The brand’s products provide essential nutrients without compromising on taste. The brand’s dedication to quality, transparency, and health-first formulations makes it a reliable choice for health-conscious families.
Porsche Cars India breaks one thousand sales barrier for the first time with 1,006 vehicles sold in 2024
Porsche India has recorded another record year of sales in 2024, achieving a four figure sales number for the first time with 1,006 sales.
Representing a 10 per cent increase over the previous year, it marks the successful introduction of new models that entered the market during the year including the new Porsche 911 and Panamera.
Along with the new Cayenne launched in late 2023, Porsche India moves into 2025 with a completely new model range as it launches two new Battery Electric Vehicles (BEV) today with the all-new Macan SUV and updated Taycan sports saloon
“After a strong 2023, we are happy to have exceeded this with an even bigger 2024, selling more than a thousand cars for the first time,” said Manolito Vujicic, Brand Director, Porsche India.
“This success is a testament to our exciting customer experiences, the introduction of new products, and our recent expansion over the past few years with additional Porsche Centres. With Pune and Hyderabad operations having commenced last year, we are committed to maintaining this momentum through 2025, with new Porsche Centres in Indore, Jaipur, and Lucknow planned to open by the end of the year.”
Porsche India recorded 156 sales of its two-door sports cars comprising the 911, 718 Cayman and Boxster, marking a 95 per cent increase. The surge for SUVs continued with 454 Cayennes and 259 Macans, equating to 71 per cent of total volume, capped off the year.
Moving into 2025, the new Macan BEV is now available across three models comprising the Macan (₹ 1,21,62,000), Macan 4S (₹ 1,38,62,000) and the 470 kW [639PS] Macan Turbo (₹ 1,68,62,000).
The new Taycan is available initially in two specifications, the Taycan 4S (₹ 1,89,42,000) and Taycan Turbo (₹ 2,52,62,000) with the two-wheel drive version that offers up to 678 km of WLTP range, an increase of 175 km or 35 per cent, to be introduced at later date.
“Looking ahead, 2025 is going to be an exciting year with a completely new line-up of models all launched within the past 14 months, including the Macan BEV and Taycan we have revealed today. As we expand into our three new locations, Porsche India is confident we can continue this positive momentum through 2025 and into 2026,” said Vujicic.
JTL Industries Ltd. lists on NSE; aims to enhance its manufacturing capacity to 2 million MTPA by FY27 – INDIAN NEWS & TIMES
JTL Industries Limited (JTLIND | 534600 | INE391J01024), a leading manufacturer and exporter of various steel tubes and pipes including value-added products and commercial grade products, listed on the National Stock Exchange (NSE). Present on the occasion were: Mr. Madan Mohan Singla, Managing Director; Mr. Mithan Lal Singla, Non–Executive Director; Mr. Rakesh Garg, Executive Director; Mr. Pranav Singla, Executive Director; Mr. Dhruv Singla, Executive Director & CFO; Mrs. Pavni Singla, Chief Strategy Officer; along with marquee customers, investors, well-wishers and employees.
JTL Industries Limited aims to increase its manufacturing capacity to 20 lakhs MTPA by FY27 from a total manufacturing capacity of 5.86 lakhs MTPA across four state-of-the-art facilities located in Punjab, Maharashtra and Chhattisgarh. The Company serves industry sectors such as Construction & Building Materials, Core Infrastructure, Energy and Engineering, Heavy Vehicles, Agriculture, Water & Gas distribution, and Solar Projects.
A total amount of Rs. 384 crores will be raised via preferential allotment of up to 1,28,08,350 fully convertible warrants of the face value of Rs. 2/- each. The funds raised will boost the current planned capacity expansion of the company. The amount of Rs. 98 crores out of Rs. 384 crores has already been received. The rest is expected to be received by September 2024.
Mr. Madan Mohan Singla, Managing Director, JTL Industries Ltd., said, “Listing on the NSE is another significant milestone in our 3-decades-old corporate journey. JTL Industries continues to move forward on our mission to grow sustainably and enhance shareholder value through the continuous support of our stakeholders. We are aiming to increase its contribution of Value-Added products to over 50% of the total sales mix over the next 2 years. We plan to deploy DFT in our plants which will facilitate the production of various sizes of hollow sections without roll change, increasing efficiency and capacity utilization and adding additional SKUs.”
Mr. Pranav Singla, Executive Director, JTL Industries Ltd., said, “JTL commenced commercial production of 36,000 MTPA at its Mandi plant, Punjab. The expanded capacity is dedicated towards manufacturing value-added products. The amalgamation between JTL and Chetan Industries Limited has been completed. This will aid us to become a stronger and dominant player in India by increasing our market share and penetration. This will double the number of dealers and distributors. This will enhance our manufacturing capabilities by 1,00,000 MTPA out of which 50% will be focused on producing value-added products. Now, all 4 plants have galvanizing facilities, hence the value-added product mix will further keep increasing as a trend. This is in line with our future growth target of reaching 20 lakh MTPA capacity.”
Mr. Dhruv Singla, Executive Director & CFO, JTL Industries Ltd., said, “During Q4 FY23 and FY23, we at JTL Industries Ltd. recorded our highest ever quarterly and yearly sales volume that aided us in healthy revenue growth and profitability. Revenue is expected to grow by 30-35% from FY23 to FY24 led by increasing sales volume, and greater contribution of value-added products in the sales mix. EBITDA for FY24 is expected to stay within similar lines as witnessed in FY23.”
JTL effectively manages its inventory and working capital keeping them within a range that enables them to easily transfer the impact of fluctuations in raw materials prices to their customers. JTL’s export mix consists of value-added products and commercial grade products with the former contributing to ~90% of its export sales volume which assists them to earn high revenue and margins. Completion of amalgamation between JTL and Chetan Industries Limited provides an advantage of backward integration, proximity to the source of raw material, and cost synergies. All the manufacturing plants of JTL are capable of producing value-added products which will further add to its EBITDA and EBITDA Margins. JTL serves a pool of diversified clientele serving B2B, B2G, OEMs, and international markets, not concentrating and exposing itself to any one sector. Marquee clients include Tata Power, L&T, Siemens, Avaada, Power Grid Corp., NTPC, Suzlon, Susten, EIL, Indian Oil, Hindustan Petroleum, Sterling & Wilson, BHEL, Ashok Leyland, Mahanagar Gas, IGL, Essar, etc.
Canadian Wood supports the inauguration of Caple Industrial Solutions – Centre of Excellence in Mumbai – INDIAN NEWS & TIMES
The British Columbia (B.C.) provincial government’s crown corporation, Forestry Innovation Consulting India Pvt Ltd (FII India), popularly known as Canadian Wood,supported the grand opening of Caple Industrial Solutions – Centre of Excellence (CoE). The inauguration ceremony of the 13000-sq.ft. CoE at Pelhar in Vasai was held on August 5; it marked a significant milestone in the industry, showcasing Canadian Wood’s commitment to promote sustainable practices and advance the skill development of the workforce. Caple, which is known for its expertise in providing top-notch training and development facility, also expressed enthusiasm about the launch.
A pioneering initiative, the CoE at Vasai is a first-of-its-kind in the industry that seeks to spotlight the latest technologies and comprehensive training programs conducted throughout the year. Canadian Wood gains access to Caple’s cutting-edge facility to host a diverse array of events and training workshops. It will be empowered, along with the support of Furniture Fittings Skill Council (FFSC), to conduct top-notch training sessions, equipping participants with essential industry skills and knowledge. Furthermore, the facility also provides a strategic platform to showcase and promote Canadian Wood’s products, elevating their brand presence and expanding their market reach.
Talking about the launch of the CoE, Mr. Pranesh Chhibber, Country Director of Canadian Wood said, “We are thrilled to support the Centre of Excellence, as it symbolises our dedication to create a positive impact in the wood industry. Through this effort with Caple, we aim to nurture and enhance the skills of our workforce, cultivating a community of responsible wood practitioners who share our commitment to sustainability.”
Satyan Thukral, CEO, Caple.in added, “We are honoured to receive support for the prestigious Canadian Wood’s Centre of Excellence. This initiative aligns perfectly with our mission to empower professionals with the technology, process knowledge and skills necessary to drive sustainable practices forward as it is the need of the hour.”
Industry leaders, professionals, and media representatives witnessed the unveiling of Centre of Excellence at Vasai on August 5th. Through this platform, Canadian Wood aims to educate, upskill and empower carpenters, machine operators through production managers to decision makers by providing best practices in handling, manufacturing and machining wood and ensuring the promotion of sustainable wood and production practices. It has, in fact, also made a generous contribution of various Canadian Wood species to demonstrate their capabilities in setting up of the interiors of this facility. The wood has been skillfully utilized for crafting training center spaces, elegant counters, exquisite paneling, and captivating wood interiors. Additionally, it has been instrumental in creating durable and aesthetically pleasing furniture, enhancing the entire space with a touch of natural beauty.
Vegas Mall Hosts IDEA’s ‘Sugamya Dwarka Abhiyan’ – A Step Towards an Inclusive Dwarka
Vegas Mall proudly hosted the launch of IDEA’s Sugamya Dwarka Abhiyan (Accessible Dwarka), a landmark campaign aimed at transforming Dwarka, New Delhi, into the world’s first Purple Subcity — a symbol of accessibility, inclusion, and empowerment for persons with disabilities. Running from May 1st to 15th under this year’s GAAD theme, “Committing to Change,” the initiative reflects a powerful commitment to building an inclusive urban environment.
The event, held in association with the Chief Commissioner for Persons with Disabilities (CCPD) and Inclusive Divyangjan Entrepreneur Association (IDEA), brought together policymakers, advocates, and community leaders. A key highlight was the launch of the Accessibility Toolkit, an innovative framework developed by IDEA to assess public spaces, paving the way for the Purple Building Certification — a first-of-its-kind recognition for inclusive design, in partnership with AMTZ ICMR.
The program began with a sensitization workshop, followed by a warm welcome to esteemed guests including Mr. Kishore Kumar Rewala (ACP Dwarka), Mr. Dayal Singh Pawar (Saksham), Sh. Mallikarjuna Iytha (IDEA), Mr. Jawed Habib (celebrity hairstylist and founder, Hair and Beauty Products), and Mr. Pravin Prakash Ambastha (CCPD), alongside Vegas Mall representatives.
The honourable West Delhi Member of Parliament, Smt. Kamaljeet Sehrawat, commended the campaign and expressed her full support in making Dwarka Sub City an inspiration for the rest of the districts of India.
The highlight of the event was the unveiling of the campaign board, symbolizing the official launch of Sugamya Dwarka Abhiyan.
Ravinder Choudhary, Vice President, Vegas Mall, said, “We are honoured to host this transformative initiative. Vegas Mall has always believed in creating spaces that are welcoming for everyone, and this campaign aligns perfectly with our vision of inclusivity and community engagement.”
As Dwarka takes this pioneering step, the Sugamya Dwarka Abhiyan sets a remarkable example for cities across India, advancing the nation’s journey toward accessibility, inclusion, and empowerment for all.
JK Tyre Levitas Makes Luxury Statement at ‘Fast & Fabulous’ Supercar Showcase in Mumbai
JK Tyre & Industries Ltd. marked a new chapter in its premium journey with a high-octane showcase of its luxury tyre range, Levitas, at ‘Fast & Fabulous: The Supercar Catwalk’ in Mumbai. Blending high fashion with high performance, the event brought together supercars and the ultimate expression of speed, positioning Levitas as the tyre of choice for India’s growing tribe of luxury and performance car enthusiasts.
The evening saw together industry leaders, auto and racing enthusiasts, and personalities from across domains under one roof, including Mr. Anshuman Singhania, Managing Director, JK Tyre & Industries Ltd., Mr. Akhilesh Reddy, Chairman of Racing Promotions Pvt. Ltd and rally champion, India’s only Arjuna awardee in Motorsports, Mr. Gaurav Gill, underscoring the brand’s unique intersection of performance, aspiration, and lifestyle. Adding to the excitement were two Formula cars, the Formula 4 and Formula Wolf, announcing the 2025 season of the India Racing Festival, that is set to begin on August 15, 2025.
Speaking at the occasion, Mr. Anshuman Singhania, Managing Director, JK Tyre & Industries Ltd., said, “The Levitas range is pushing the boundaries of what a luxury tyre can represent, blending sophistication with cutting-edge performance. Through the Fast & Fabulous event, we have brought this vision to life, showcasing the style, control, and premium appeal our products are built to deliver.”
Adding to its legacy of bold innovation, JK Tyre also revealed its latest feat, a record attempt drift at Umling La Pass. The high-altitude stunt was performed by India’s drift king Sanam Sekhon on Levitas XTREME tyres.
Engineered with advanced compounds and precision tread design, the Levitas Ultra tyres for the premium segment and Levitas XTREME for ultra-high performance, represent JK Tyre’s growing push into the premium segment, offering tailored solutions for some of the finest high-end vehicles on Indian roads. Through this product range, JK Tyre has signaled a strategic push into the luxury and high-performance automotive segments, marrying decades of tyre expertise with forward-looking design and innovation.
Hamdard invests in SIG’s aseptic carton technology to meet diverse consumer demands
Hamdard Laboratories India (Food division), a company known for its health and wellness products and beverages, has partnered with SIG to leverage its advanced aseptic carton packaging and filling solutions. The fast and flexible filling technology from SIG will help Hamdard meet the evolving consumer needs when it comes to affordability, the right size, long-lasting quality and convenience.
Hamdard opted for an SIG XSlim 24 Aseptic filling machine, which will be operated in its Aurangabad (Maharashtra) manufacturing plant. The advanced filling machine has the capacity to fill 24,000 SIG XSlimBloc carton packs per hour and the flexibility to fill nine different volume sizes ranging from 80ml to 200ml on the same filling line. The changeover time when switching pack size takes less than 15 minutes. This flexibility allows Hamdard to easily and quickly right-size their products based on consumer demands.
Vandana Tandan, Head of Markets India and Bangladesh at SIG: “Hamdard is one of the most celebrated beverage brands in India and SIG is excited to partner with them. The partnership will be beneficial for both SIG and Hamdard to grow their presence across India. SIG’s advanced technology will allow Hamdard to respond to the changing market needs, while maintaining the highest quality standard of the product. We are looking forward to a long and promising partnership.”
Hamdard will utilise SIG’s filling technology to package, for example, new varieties of the century-old iconic beverage brand RoohAfza, which includes milkshakes, lassi, juices, glucose drinks, and coconut water in SIG XSlimBloc carton packs, and will be available with a drinking straw. Hamdard will also partner with other industry players to explore co-packing opportunities.
Hamid Ahmed, CEO at Hamdard Laboratories India – Food Division: “Collaborating with SIG will help us broaden our packaging options and react quickly to changing market and consumer preferences and behaviour. The unmatched speed and flexibility of SIG’s filling solution will allow us to increase our production process efficiency and reduce our production cost.”
SIG’s state-of-the-art filling technology will support Hamdard in its efforts to reach a variety of different consumer groups across India and overseas, as the company aims to expand its reach and cover a wide range of price points. In addition, SIG’s technology will put Hamdard in an excellent position to reduce waste, save energy and minimize production time, underlining the company’s commitment to building a sustainable future.
Stonehill Technofest 2025 Unites 200+ Students from 25 Schools Across Six Cities
Stonehill International School’s Technofest, a two-day inter-school competition for students, came to a close with over 200 students from more than 25 schools participating in the event across six cities, including Hyderabad, Mumbai, and Chennai. The fest also served as an inclusive platform for students from diverse backgrounds to showcase their tech skills through events such as Hackathon, Makeathon and Formula 1 RC car racing competitions.
Stonehill’s state-of-the-art design and tech labs were open to participants from government and private schools, including Oakridge International, Trio World Academy, Inventure Academy, The Gaudium School, Chaman Bhartiya School, Jain International Residential School, and Vijaybhoomi Singapore International School.
In the Makeathon, participants built products such as an automatic dog feeder, a gaming chair crafted entirely by hand tools, a tech dress with sensors, and smart shoes for the visually challenged. The Hackathon projects ranged from AI-based outfit prediction software and a stock market simulator to an epilepsy detection belt and a household chores planner. The newly introduced Formula 1 RC car racing event saw students designing and racing their own cars on a track, creating a lot of excitement and enthusiasm among the participants and the spectators. It was a contest full of nail-biting moments as students cheered for their team, making it one of the highlights of the event.
Speaking about the event, Joe Lumsden, Head of School, Stonehill International School, stated, “It was a real pleasure to be able to open our campus up to students from such diverse backgrounds and experiences and watch them come up with such creative, innovative ideas for addressing real-world issues.”
The participants appreciated the fest for the infrastructure, learning experience, and inclusive environment. Yogeshwaran from Government Boys Higher Secondary School, Thiruporur, Tamil Nadu, whose team won the Makeathon senior category, said, “We were initially a bit intimidated to be amidst an international community, but the people at Stonehill made us feel at home. They encouraged and motivated us to perform in the contest. We are thankful for the opportunity.”
The purpose of Technofest is to motivate young people to develop inventive solutions for modern problems during a rigorous 24-hour timeframe.