Aurelia Butler

More stories

  • 138 Shares199 Views

    in Electric Cars

    Toyota Hilux Electric Launch Confirmed In 2025 – Fortuner EV Next?

    Toyota Hilux ElectricToyota will initially produce the electric Hilux only For Thailand; other markets could be covered laterAs compared to other carmakers, Toyota hasn’t voted for a dramatic shift to electric vehicles. Instead, Toyota has been focusing on hybrid cars. It’s the company’s belief that market share of electric cars will never go beyond 30 percent. Even when much of the ecosystem is chasing a zero-emission future.Electric Hilux debut in 2025But that doesn’t mean Toyota has entirely shunned electric vehicles. Even when not as aggressive as other brands, Toyota’s EV plan is progressing in the desired manner. One of Toyota’s upcoming EVs is Hilux Revo BEV, which will be launched in 2025. Electric Hilux will be assembled in Thailand and sold exclusively in Thailand initially.Toyota Hilux ElectricToyota can consider export opportunities at a later date. Information about the upcoming electric Hilux was recently confirmed by a company executive. Thailand seems like a relevant choice, as there’s significant demand for pickup trucks in that country.More than half of all cars sold in Thailand are pickup trucks. This presents a significant opportunity for Toyota. Rival offerings such as the upcoming electric Isuzu D-Max could also have necessitated the introduction of electric Hilux. The electric Isuzu D-Max will also be assembled in Thailand.Toyota Hilux ElectricElectric Hilux – Specs, rangeToyota had earlier stated that the electric Hilux will have a range of around 200 km. The test cycle used for determining the range was not mentioned. A range of 200 km seems quite low, but it’s a common issue with electric pickups. A higher range will require a larger battery, which in turn can limit the pickup’s load carrying capacity. Manoeuvrability and practicality issues can also arise with a large battery pack used in a pickup truck.Toyota Hilux ElectricWith the new-gen ICE Hilux expected to debut in 2025, it is likely that the electric Hilux will be based on the new-gen model. However, there is no official confirmation from Toyota. New-gen Hilux can be better equipped to support advanced features that electric vehicles generally have.Across South American markets, the new-gen ICE Hilux will debut in 2026. It is possible that Toyota may introduce both new-gen ICE and electric versions of Hilux simultaneously in 2025. Based on the same platform, Toyota is likely to launch Fortuner Electric in the future.Toyota Hilux ElectricOther upcoming Toyota pickupsEarlier in 2021, Toyota had showcased a pickup truck that looked similar to the Tacoma. At the 2023 Japan Mobility Show, an EPU concept was showcased. It had a unibody construction and was dimensionally similar to the Fiat Toro. At the same event, Toyota had also unveiled a small IMV-0 concept. This was presented as a small modular electric pickup truck.Toyota is already using the IMV-0 platform in several countries. Although, it currently comes with combustion engines and is sold as the Hilux Champ. The name was recently registered in Brazil. It presents the possibility of production in Argentina. Hilux Champ shares several components with the standard Hilux.Source – Reuters More

  • 138 Shares179 Views

    in Electric Cars

    Maruti EVX Electric SUV Spied Next To Brezza, Seltos, HyRyder, XL6

    Maruti EVX Electric SUV SpiedMaruti Suzuki’s Electric SUV eVX Spotted Testing on Public Roads – Launch in 2025In an exciting development for electric vehicle enthusiasts, the Maruti Suzuki Electric SUV eVX has been spotted undergoing road tests. The latest spy shots reveal the vehicle’s imposing road presence as it shares the streets with popular models like the Kia Seltos, Maruti XL6, Maruti Brezza, and Toyota HyRyder. Latest spy shots are credited to automotive enthusiast Sandeep from Rushlane Spylane.Maruti EVX Electric SUV SpiedThe Maruti Suzuki eVX, which stands for Emotional Versatile Cruiser, is an electric vehicle designed and developed by Suzuki Motor Corporation. The SUV is built on a ground-up all-electric platform, which will serve as the foundation for future electric vehicles from Maruti Suzuki. The company has committed a substantial investment of Rs 100 billion for the production of these electric vehicles and their batteries, signaling a significant shift towards sustainable mobility.Maruti EVX Electric SUV Spied next to XL6The eVX is characterized by its muscular stance and dimensions, measuring 4,300mm in length, 1,800mm in width, and 1,600mm in height. The design includes a long wheelbase with short overhangs, providing a spacious and comfortable cabin. It is likely to deliver an impressive driving range of 400-500 kilometers on a single charge.The spy shots, although heavily camouflaged, hint at the SUV’s robust design elements. The eVX features a horizontal hood, high seating stance, large alloy wheels, and elevated ground clearance. Signature LED lighting at the front and rear, a closed-off grille, projector headlamps, sloping DRLs, and prominent wheel arches are expected to enhance its visual appeal and aerodynamic efficiency.Maruti EVX Electric SUV Spied next to BrezzaIt also has a decent road presence, as can be seen in the spy shots. Inside, the eVX promises class-leading comforts and conveniences, along with state-of-the-art connectivity features, catering to the modern driver’s needs. Detailed spy shots of the interiors of EVX were discussed in the previous post.Maruti EVX Electric SUV Spied next to SeltosLaunch and RivalsUpon its launch, the Maruti Suzuki eVX will compete directly with the upcoming Hyundai Creta EV, both planned for launch in 2025. The eVX is expected to be priced in the Rs 20 lakh range, making it a competitive option in the growing electric SUV market.Maruti EVX Electric SUV Spied next to HyRyderMaruti Suzuki eVX, with its promising specifications and cutting-edge features, is poised to make a significant impact on the electric vehicle market in India. Maruti Suzuki aims for a comprehensive testing phase to ensure the eVX meets market-specific requirements and performs well under various Indian weather conditions. The vehicle’s production will take place at Maruti Suzuki’s Gujarat plant, marking a significant milestone in the company’s journey towards electrification. More

  • 150 Shares169 Views

    in Bike

    Top 10 Two Wheelers April 2024 – Splendor, Activa, Pulsar, Apache, Jupiter

    Bajaj Pulsar N160Sales performance of India’s top 10 two wheelers April 2024 was notable with Splendor and Activa leading motorcycles and scootersTwo-wheeler sales have been climbing new heights in the Indian market and there have been a lot of new entrants. However, the stalwarts of the sales charts continue to assert their dominance and hold their positions. Same was the case in the month of April 2024 and we can see old names in the charts at their usual positions.Top 10 Two Wheelers April 2024Like clockwork, Hero Splendor took the lead and became the best selling two-wheeler in Indian market with 3,20,959 units sold last month. When compared to the 2,65,225 units sold in April 2023, Splendor registered a 21.01% YoY growth with a volume growth of 55,734 units YoY. Among the top 10 two wheelers, Splendor sales accounted for more than a quarter at 25.77%.Top 10 Two Wheelers April 2024 GraphAt 2nd place, we have Honda Activa, which is India’s best-selling scooter that sold 2,60,300 units last month. As opposed to 2,46,016 units sold a year ago, Activa saw a decent 5.81% YoY growth and a volume gain of 14,284 units. Among this list, Activa contributed to 20.9% of market share.Bajaj Pulsar took the 3rd spot with 1,44,809 units and accounted for an 11.63% market share of this list. Selling 1,15,371 units last year, Pulsar saw 25.52% YoY growth and a volume gain of 29,438 units. Honda Shine was found brooding on Pulsar’s neck with 1,42,751 units sold and it saw a greater 59.93% YoY growth as opposed to 89,261 units sold a year ago. Volume gain was 53,490 units and market share was 11.46%.Top 10 Two Wheelers April 2024 Sales ChartVehicles with sub 1 lakh unitsAt 5th position, we could see Hero’s second vehicle on this list, which is the HF Deluxe. This motorcycle sold 97,048 units and witnessed a 23.31% YoY growth. It was the best-selling two wheeler below the 1 lakh unit mark. Volume gain was 18,348 units as opposed to 78,700 units sold in April 2023.Securing their places as 2nd and 3rd best-selling scooters in India, we have TVS Jupiter at 6th place and Suzuki Access at 7th place respectively. Jupiter sales stood at 77,086 units with 29.38% YoY growth and 17,503 units volume gain. Whereas Suzuki Access sold 61,960 units and witnessed 18.63% YoY growth and 9,729 units volume gain YoY.Battling for 8th and 9th places, we have Raider 125 and Apache motorcycles from the house of TVS, respectively. Raider saw 51,098 units sold with a 62.26% YoY growth (highest on this list) and a volume gain of 19,607 units. At the same time, we have Apache range with 45,520 units sold and saw 19.32% YoY growth with 7,372 units volume growth.At 10th place, we have Bajaj Platina and it was the only two wheeler on this list to register a YoY de-growth. With 44,054 units sold, Platina managed to lose sales 4.90% YoY with 2,268 units volume loss. In total, top 10 two wheelers April 2024 chart witnessed 12,45,585 units. When compared to the 10,22,348 units from April 2023, there was a 21.84% YoY growth with 2,23,237 units volume growth. More

  • 150 Shares179 Views

    in Bike

    TVS Apache RTR Black Edition Launched With 160 2V And 160 4V

    TVS Apache RTR Black Edition LaunchedThe new TVS Apache RTR Black Edition models are more aesthetically pleasing rivals to 160cc Bajaj Pulsar and Yamaha FZ offeringsOne of India’s leading 2W and 3W manufacturers, TVS Motor, just launched a raunchy new Black Edition treatment with both of its 160cc duo. In this sense, both Apache RTR 160 2V and Apache RTR 160 4V get this new Black Edition. Pricing for this impressive new Black Edition starts from Rs. 1.20 lakh (ex-sh).TVS Apache RTR Black EditionTVS Apache RTR 160 2V Black EditionStarting with classic Apache 160 2V, this is the most affordable motorcycle offered with this new Black Edition colour scheme. This new colour looks the best on TVS Apache RTR 160 2V and is a perfect shade to radiate sophistication and aggression at the same time. With this new colour, bike looks more menacing than before.TVS Apache RTR Black Edition LaunchedNew Black Edition joins the existing colour palette. These include T-Grey, Matte Blue, Racing Red, Gloss Black, Pearl White and the newest Glossy Black. Overall appearance is very stealthy and there are no stickers to spoil the stealth and sophistication of Black Edition. Which we liked very much.Earlier Gloss Black shade had a few stickers and never looked as slick as this new Black Edition shade. Apart from colour, there are no mechanical changes on this machine. It continues to draw power from the same 159.7cc single-cylinder SOHC 2V air-cooled engine capable of generating 15.82 bhp and 13.85 Nm, mated to a 5-speed gearbox.TVS Apache RTR 160 2V Black EditionTVS Apache RTR 160 2V has been priced at Rs. 1.2 lakh (ex-sh). This means Black Edition is only offered with the base model that gets rear drum brakes and misses out on Bluetooth connectivity and gets a skinnier rear tyre.TVS Apache RTR 160 4V Black EditionWe can see a similar strategy when it comes to the more performance-oriented Apache RTR 160 4V Black Edition as well. TVS is only offering Black Edition with the base model that misses out on Bluetooth connectivity along with all the new add-ons that were offered with Special Edition like adjustable levers and coloured alloy wheels.TVS Apache RTR 160 4V Black EditionChanges with Apache RTR 160 4V Black Edition are also just limited to colour and overall machine remains the same. New Glossy Black colour is now added to the palette containing Lightning Blue, Matte Black, Knight Black, Metallic Blue and Racing Red. New Glossy Black looks the most sophisticated and soothing without any stickers.TVS Apache RTR 160 4V Black EditionMechanically, bike continues to be powered by the same 159.7cc single-cylinder SOHC 4V oil-cooled engine that is capable of generating 17.31 bhp and 14.73 Nm, mated to a 5-speed gearbox. Asking price for TVS Apache RTR 160 4V is Rs. 1.25 lakh (ex-sh).Also read – TVS launched Apache, Ronin, Jupiter, Ntorq and Raider in Italy More

  • 125 Shares149 Views

    in Electric Cars

    BYD Seal X Homologated – Production Version Of Ocean-M Concept

    BYD Seal X HomologatedBased on the recently showcase Ocean-M Concept, BYD Seal X is a handsome-looking pure electric hatchback, larger than MG4 EVElectric car juggernaut, BYD, is set to expand its product portfolio with a bunch of new vehicles. One of them is the BYD Seal X, which is the production-spec version of Ocean-M Concept recently showcased at Beijing Auto Show. The car was recently homologated by Chinese MIIT and it could emerge as a very important product for BYD.BYD Seal X HomologatedRecently revealed by Chinese MIIT (Ministry of Industry and Information Technology), BYD Seal X is homologated as a pure electric sedan. Because it has Seal in the name, it falls under BYD’s popular Ocean lineup accompanied by Seagull and Dolphin, among others. BYD Seal lineup currently has Seal 06, Seal EV, Seal DM-i, and Seal U (a.k.a BYD Song Plus).Initial speculations suggest the ‘X’ in BYD Seal X may be a variable nameplate placeholder. This is because the homologation declaration by Chinese MIIT had nameplates like Seal 06GT, Seal MINI and Seal 05EV. For the time being, let’s just call the recently homologated vehicle, BYD Seal X.Overall design is very handsome and looks like an extension of BYD Seal EV. At the front, we like the new headlights with a wrap-around effect. BYD logo proudly sits between these headlights. Front bumper is all new with pronounced boomerang-shaped air ducts. The lower grill opens outwards and in the middle, gets a radar module for ADAS features.BYD Seal X RearAt the side, front quarter panel has a stylised plaque similar to BYD Seal EV. ORVMs, flush-mounted door handles and the design patterns on side running board look similar to BYD Seal too. Wheels and overall silhouette of Seal X is unique and pays tribute to Ocean-M Concept on which it is based.Hatchback style design is more evident at the rear and we have a flatter tailgate. Tail lights are connected in a black plaque. Rear bumper gets a black finish. Unlike the BYD Seal, there is no rear diffuser with BYD Seal X. Rear bumper is kept black to cut down on visual mass and overall rear design lends a sporty appeal.Specs & hardwareBYD Seal X measures 4,630 mm in length, 1,880 mm in width, 1,490 mm in height and has a 2,820 mm long wheelbase. Wheels are 18-inchers wrapped with 225/50-R18 tyres and can be opted to have 19-inch wheels too. Both RWD and AWD variants will be on sale. Single motor variant will have 214 bhp and dual motor variant will pack 416 bhp.BYD Seal X FasciaThe homologation document also shows a mid variant with 308 bhp as well. Battery size is unknown, but they’re BYD Blade cells sourced from FinDreams (Lithium Iron Phosphate chemistry). BYD Seal X might go on sale in the coming months. India launch could be on the cards, but nothing can be said for certain.Also read – BYD Seal EV First Drive Review More

  • 125 Shares199 Views

    in Bike

    TVS Apache, Jupiter, Ntorq, Ronin, Raider – Launched In Italy

    TVS NtorqTVS Motors’ Italian operations will be via its branch office TVS Motor Italia and is a part of its global expansion strategyTVS Motor Company, a leading two and three wheeler manufacturer in India, is expanding its global operations to include Italy. Currently the third largest two wheeler maker in India, the company also markets its products to over 80 countries, with a total of 4 million global customers last year, and will now introduce a range of its internal combustion engines (ICE), electric scooters and motorcycles in Italy.The Italian operations branch office TVS Motor Italia is headed by Dr. Giovanni Notarbartolo di Furnari. He brings with him extensive experience from senior managerial roles in major automotive companies in Italy, Latin America, UAE, and Europe.TVS Motor in ItalyTVS Motor Global Expansion to Italian MarketsIntroducing the company’s range in Italian markets, TVS Motors plans to showcase the TVS Ronin 250 retro styled motorcycle, the TVS Raider commuter bike and in the scooter range the Ntorq and Jupiter 125. There will also be two electric scooters TVS iQube and TVS X along with other e-bikes – Cilo, EGO Movement, Simpel, and EBCO ranges. Speaking on the launch, Dr. Giovanni Notarbartolo di Furnari, Director, TVS Motor Italia, said, “In establishing a branch office and by offering a broad suite of products, both thermic and electric, TVS Motor has underlined its confidence and long term strategy for the Italian market. Our focus will be on two fundamental pillars: product quality and customer satisfaction. It is with a lot of pride that I am undertaking this amazing new adventure with one of the top five two-wheeler manufacturer in the world.”TVS RoninTVS launches RTR 310, Ronin, Raider 125 in ItalyAmong the product range being offered by TVS Motor Company via TVS Motor Italia will be the Apache 310 Series sports bikes which are offered in RR and RTR variants that have been developed in collaboration with BMW. The Apache 160 and the 200 range will not be sold in Italy as of now but TVS could be introduced in the future.TVS JupiterIt will also include the Ronin 250, a retro styled motorcycle that is regaled both for its style and performance and well suited to the demands of Italian buyers. TVS Raider 125cc bike will also be welcomed by Italian buyers thanks to its sporty appeal.With high demand for scooters in Italy, TVS Motor will introduce the Ntorq, a 125cc scooter that offers sporty design and performance. There will also be the Jupiter 125 scooter on display at showrooms in Italy along with the company’s electric two wheeler lineup among which will be the TVS iQube and the TVS X e-scooters. TVS X e-scooter is world’s most advanced connected e-scooter which has been designed and developed in India and boasts of exclusive features and outstanding performance, thus setting new standards in the electric two wheeler segment.In the electric bike segment, TVS Motors will also show off the Cilo, EGO Movement, Simpel and EBCO models of both mountain bikes and city bikes. These bikes are designed to excel both for city and off road riding. As on date, there are no details on pricing of any of these products which will be imported into Italy as completely built-up (CBU) units. More

  • 138 Shares119 Views

    in Bike

    Royal Enfield Classic 650 Twin Name Trademarked – Launch In 2024?

    Royal Enfield Classic 650 Twin Name TrademarkedThe upcoming BSA Goldstar 650 is the most appropriate rival for Royal Enfield Classic 650 Twin owing to their respective genresOne of the most popular classic motorcycle manufacturers in the world, Royal Enfield, has been expanding its portfolio to include a variety of new motorcycles. These new motorcycles are also seen across a variety of powertrains too. Among the upcoming motorcycles is Classic 650 and it seems to have gotten its production-spec name finalised.Royal Enfield Classic 650 Name TrademarkedAmong the slew of Royal Enfield test mules, the most obvious ones to launch next are Guerrilla 450 (a stripped-down version of Himalayan 450) and Classic 650. As the name suggests, Classic 650 is a 650cc version of Classic 350. Now, Royal Enfield has finalised the name of this upcoming motorcycle and will be called Classic 650 Twin.The new name does a better job of establishing a distinction in naming scheme. Because both 350 and 650 use the word Classic in them. The distinctions, ‘650’ and ‘Twin’, in names, should establish a distinction. Royal Enfield did something similar with Super Meteor 650 as well, where we see 650 and Super being distinctions from their 350cc counterpart.Word mark they are going for is Royal Enfield Classic 650 Twin and the filing was done earlier this month on 9/5/2024. Word mark was filed by Royal Enfield’s parent company Eicher Motors Limited and the application status read ‘Formalities Chk Pass’ and is yet to be journalled.Royal Enfield Classic 650 Twin Trademark ApplicationWhat to expect?Royal Enfield Classic 650 Twin has been spotted many times now. Bike’s testing is in full swing and is likely to launch in 2024. It takes a similar design as its 350 counterpart, Classic 350, but looks proportionately carried over to fit the larger frame. The dual pea-shooter-style exhaust is finished in chrome for that classic look. Overall execution looks pretty nice.Speaking of frame, it is based on Super Meteor 650’s platform and not Interceptor 650’s platform. This chassis is also shared with the newly launched Shotgun 650. However, Classic 650 Twin is slightly under-kitted than Super Meteor 650 and Shotgun 650. Hence Classic 650 Twin might be positioned between Interceptor 650 and Super Meteor 650 in pricing.In that regard, we see conventional RSU telescopic front forks along with a conventional twin shock setup at the rear. Few 650cc motorcycles from RE (on sale & upcoming) get USD telescopic front forks and rear mono-shock suspension. Classic 650 Twin borrows the same tail light assembly from Classic 350, instead of more expensive 650s.Royal Enfield Classic 650 TwinClassic 650 Twin is spotted with LED headlights and is likely to miss out on Royal Enfield’s Tripper Screen as well. If Classic 350’s sales numbers are anything to go by, Classic 650 Twin has all the ingredients to be the best-selling 650cc motorcycle.Powertrains-wise, Royal Enfield Classic 650 Twin will get the same 648cc parallel twin oil-cooled engine from other 650s on sale. Performance metrics will be around 47 bhp and 52 Nm and this engine will get a slipper clutch and a 6-speed gearbox. More

  • 175 Shares129 Views

    in Bike

    Royal Enfield Hires Ex-Ola, Ducati Personnel For EV Business – Electric Motorcycle Launch Plans

    Royal Enfield Himalayan Electric ConceptFor best outcomes, Royal Enfield is developing its EV lineup as a separate vertical, managed by a dedicated team of engineersWhile Royal Enfield is a popular global brand, the transition to electric presents significant challenges. This is especially true for the electric motorcycle segment that hasn’t shown any strong market response. Royal Enfield is investing significant time and efforts to ensure that its electric motorcycles are a class apart and not merely an ICE to EV project.Royal Enfield electric motorcycle launch plansAn exact launch timeline has not been provided. However, Royal Enfield has stated that its first electric motorcycle will not be launched in the current financial year. Eicher Motors’ managing director Siddhartha Lal said that currently there’s not much demand for electric motorcycles.Royal Enfield Electric Motorcycle RenderLal also talked about design and development challenges, especially related to battery packs. Essentially, viability of electric motorcycles will increase when battery packs become cheaper, smaller and lighter. He further mentioned that they have something interesting coming up that can be potentially helpful in their development process. But specific details have not been provided.Royal Enfield has created a strong electric vehicle development team to fastrack its EV plans. The team comprises a few hundred engineers. Research on newer, advanced battery packs could be one of the key focus areas for Royal Enfield. With a technology developed inhouse, it becomes easier to manage costs and introduce changes whenever required.Royal Enfield Himalayan Electric ConceptWhile a launch timeline is not available, it is apparent that design and development work is going on in full swing. Royal Enfield has made significant progress in their EV journey. They have a complete blueprint of the product plan and its future roadmap. Challenges linked to the battery pack will probably be sorted in the near future. It will allow development of more practical machines that can appeal to the mass market. Something similar to electric scooters that are registering bumper sales month after month.Ex Ola, Ducati personnel onboardedIn its efforts to create a world-class product, Royal Enfield has hired some top executives. The electric vehicle development team is led by Umesh Krishnappa, who had earlier served as the CTO at Ola Electric. Ola electric scooters are currently the top selling electric two-wheelers in the country. Another key hire is Mario Alvisi, who had earlier worked with Ducati as the Chief Growth Officer for the company’s electric vehicle business.Royal Enfield EV product detailsAt last year’s EICMA, Royal Enfield had unveiled their Himalayan EV prototype. This prototype is being used to test various electric powertrains and other parts and components. Royal Enfield is also working on L1A and L1K EV products. The former could be one of the lightest electric vehicle platforms. It derives inspiration from the Flying Flea petrol powered motorcycle that was used in World War II by the British Army.In its EV journey, Royal Enfield has also partnered with Stark Future. The Spanish company focuses on manufacturing high-performance electric motorcycles. Royal Enfield has acquired a ~10% stake in Stark Future and has plans to co-develop electric motorcycles. Royal Enfield electric motorcycles will be initially manufactured at its existing plant. Later, production capacity will be increased via a new plant in Cheyyar, Tamil Nadu.Source More