MAM
VML ES Hub India appoints Rakesh Chawla as CEO
MUMBAI: VML has named Rakesh Chawla as the new CEO of its Enterprise Solutions Hub in India, signalling a renewed push towards next generation technology, sharper delivery and accelerated client impact.
The ES Hub is one of VML’s fastest expanding technology engines and plays a central role in blending creativity with advanced engineering to solve complex business challenges. Chawla will now lead this mandate, ensuring clients benefit from high quality solutions built on emerging technologies including agentic and generative AI.
The Hub functions as a global centre of excellence, teaming up seamlessly with strategists, creatives and technologists across VML’s worldwide network. The aim is simple, help clients do more and do it faster.
Chawla brings deep experience from leadership stints at Microsoft, Amazon, Sears and IBM. His background in building high performing tech teams and establishing global delivery centres positions him to further strengthen the Hub’s reputation for speed, scale and a people-first engineering culture.
VML APAC CEO YiChung Tay said, clients can expect sharper access to cutting edge tech and creative thinking delivered with precision.
Rakesh Chawla added that he looks forward to helping clients innovate boldly and turn ambitious ideas into business results. APAC chief experience officer Symon Hammacott, highlighted that the Hub’s focus on people and innovation continues to help clients convert bold visions into measurable growth.
Brands
Hyundai Venue crosses 1 lakh bookings, adds HX8 Diesel AT variant
New top-spec automatic diesel trim brings ventilated seats, OTA updates and paddle shifters.
MUMBAI: Hyundai Venue just hit the jackpot and upgraded the prize because when you cross 1 lakh bookings, you don’t just celebrate, you throw in paddle shifters and ventilated seats for the ride. Hyundai Motor India Limited (HMIL) announced that the all-new Hyundai Venue has achieved 1 lakh bookings, cementing its strong position in the compact SUV segment. To mark the milestone and further enhance customer choice, the company introduced the new HX8 Diesel Automatic (AT) variant.
The HX8 Diesel AT is powered by the proven U2 1.5L CRDi diesel engine paired with a 6-speed automatic transmission. It adds a host of premium comfort, safety and convenience features, including:
- Ventilated front seats
- Dual-tone leatherette seats with VENUE branding
- Electric 4-way driver seat adjust
- Controller Over-the-Air (OTA) updates
- Hyundai Bluelink connected car technology
- Electric parking brake with auto hold
- Rear disc brakes
- Ambient lighting on crash pad and central console
- Drive mode select (Eco, Normal, Sport)
- Traction control modes (Sand, Mud, Snow)
- Paddle shifters
HMIL, managing director & CEO Tarun Garg said, “We are delighted that the new Hyundai Venue has crossed 1 lakh bookings, reaffirming the strong trust Indian customers place in our brand. The introduction of the new HX8 Diesel Automatic variant further strengthens the Venue lineup, offering customers the perfect blend of diesel efficiency, torque-rich performance and effortless convenience.”
Backed by Hyundai’s extensive sales and service network, the Venue continues to appeal to buyers seeking a feature-rich, comfortable and future-ready compact SUV. The new variant reinforces HMIL’s focus on delivering advanced technology, safety, comfort and value while adapting to evolving customer preferences.
In a segment where bookings are the real horsepower, Hyundai isn’t just counting milestones, it’s handing drivers an automatic upgrade that makes every journey feel like the victory lap.
