HPCL Presents Times Drive Auto Summit & Awards 2026: Premium Motorcycle of the Year Nominations

HPCL Times Drive Auto Summit & Awards 2026: Four motorcycles have been shortlisted for the Premium Motorcycle of the Year award, including Ducati Panigale V4, Ducati Multistrada V4, Indian Sport Scout and Kawasaki Z900.

HPCL Presents Times Drive Auto Summit & Awards 2026: Premium Motorcycle of the Year Nominations

Hindustan Petroleum Corporation Limited (HPCL) presents the Times Drive Auto Summit & Awards 2026, a Times Network initiative, scheduled to take place on May 5, 2026, in New Delhi. The event will bring together industry stakeholders, policymakers and experts to discuss developments shaping mobility in India.

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What is the theme for the 2026 Auto Summit?

The theme for the Times Drive Auto Summit & Awards 2026 is 'India’s Mobility Mission 2030: Clean Tech, Smart Manufacturing, Global Vision.' This theme focuses on advancements in clean technology and smart manufacturing as India gears up for a sustainable mobility future. The summit aims to address critical developments and foster discussions among industry leaders, policymakers, and technology experts.

Who will attend the Auto Summit as the Chief Guest?

Nitin Gadkari, the Minister of Road Transport and Highways of India (MoRTH), will attend the Times Drive Auto Summit & Awards 2026 as the Chief Guest. His presence underscores the summit's focus on infrastructure growth and policy directions that are essential for the evolution of new mobility ecosystems in India.

What motorcycle models did Ducati launch in 2025?

In 2025, Ducati launched several models in India, including the Panigale V2, Streetfighter V4, Multistrada V4 Pikes Peak, Scrambler Full Throttle, and DesertX Discovery. Each model features distinct specifications aimed at different riding styles, such as performance, adventure touring, and lifestyle riding, expanding Ducati's portfolio in the Indian market.

What categories are included in the awards segment?

The awards segment of the Times Drive Auto Summit & Awards 2026 includes categories such as Urban Car of the Year, Premium Electric Car of the Year, Performance Car of the Year, Motorcycle of the Year, Premium Motorcycle of the Year, and more. This diverse range of categories aims to recognize excellence across various automotive segments.

What features does the 2026 Ducati Multistrada V4 Rally have?

The 2026 Ducati Multistrada V4 Rally features a 1,158 cc Granturismo V4 engine, radar-based safety systems, and an automatic lowering feature for easier handling. It includes a 30-litre fuel tank, a 6.5-inch TFT display, and advanced rider assistance technologies like Adaptive Cruise Control and Blind Spot Detection, enhancing comfort and safety during long rides.

The theme for this year’s edition is ‘India’s Mobility Mission 2030: Clean Tech, Smart Manufacturing, Global Vision.’ Alongside the summit discussions, the awards will recognise contributions across multiple segments of the automotive industry.
For the Premium Motorcycle of the Year category, four models have been shortlisted, representing a mix of performance-oriented superbikes, touring motorcycles and road-focused machines. Here is an overview of the nominees:

Ducati Panigale V4

Ducati Panigale V4

The Ducati Panigale V4 is powered by a 1,103cc V4 engine that produces 213 bhp at 13,500 rpm and 121 Nm of torque at 11,250 rpm. Positioned as a track-focused superbike, it is designed for high-performance riding and advanced dynamics. The motorcycle is priced from Rs 32.05 lakh (ex-showroom).

Ducati Multistrada V4

Ducati Multistrada V4

The Ducati Multistrada V4 is equipped with a 1,158cc V4 Granturismo engine delivering 167.6 bhp at 10,750 rpm and 123.8 Nm of torque at 9,000 rpm. The engine complies with Euro 5+ emission norms and features extended cylinder deactivation technology aimed at improving efficiency. The motorcycle is priced from Rs 24.56 lakh (ex-showroom).

Indian Sport Scout

Indian Sport Scout

The Indian Sport Scout is powered by a 1,250cc liquid-cooled V-Twin engine producing 103.5 bhp. It is positioned as a performance-oriented cruiser and features suspension travel of 76 mm. The motorcycle is priced from Rs 14.09 lakh (ex-showroom).

Kawasaki Z900

Kawasaki Z900

The Kawasaki Z900 continues with a 948cc inline four-cylinder, liquid-cooled engine. The updated version produces 123.6 bhp and 98.6 Nm of torque, with a marginal increase in output compared to the previous model. It is paired with a six-speed gearbox and chain drive system. The kerb weight stands at 212 kg, reduced by 1 kg. The motorcycle is priced from Rs 9.99 lakh (ex-showroom).
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