Aurelia Butler

More stories

  • 138 Shares169 Views

    in Electric Cars

    Tata Nexon Electric Granted Stay Against Delisting From Delhi EV Policy

    Image – Auto Town
    Under test conditions is an accepted industry norm, so selectively targeting Nexon seems unfair

    In response to Delhi’s government’s decision to remove Nexon EV from its subsidy list, Tata Motors approached Delhi High Court for a resolution. As may be recalled, Delhi govt. had taken the decision based on a complaint filed by a Nexon user. As per the complaint, Nexon never reached the claimed ARAI certified range of 312 km.
    A Tata Motors spokesperson said, “The Honourable Delhi High Court has issued notice on our writ and granted interim relief by directing a stay against the delisting of Nexon EV from Delhi Government’s eligible list of vehicles. The Honourable High Court has granted time to the Delhi Government to file counter affidavit in the matter.”
    Tata Motors case in Delhi HC
    In its plea, Tata Motors stated that Delhi government’s decision is an extreme step and based on a single complaint filed by an unsatisfied and disgruntled consumer. The plea also mentions that actual range of most other vehicles including petrol, diesel and CNG is different from the claimed range. This is because mileage of a vehicle is dependent on multiple factors such as environment, traffic conditions, overall load, use of AC, condition of the vehicle, driver skills, etc.
    Tata Motors response seems valid as there are various consumer goods that come with claims based on tests conducted in a controlled environment. In the auto industry, it would be difficult to find a vehicle that can match its claimed mileage in actual road tests. Unless Delhi govt. is planning to pinpoint the shortcomings of generally accepted industry norms, it has little chance to win this case in court.
    Tata Nexon Electric
    Facts in favour of Tata Motors
    It is to note that the current suspension of subsidy for Nexon EV is a temporary one. The final decision will be taken after the expert committee submits its report to Delhi government. The committee will look into the complaints filed by Nexon users as well as assertions made by Tata Motors. The committee has representatives from Delhi Transport Department, Tata Motors, and Delhi Integrated Multi-Modal Transit System (DIMTS).
    In its earlier response to Delhi government, Tata Motors had stated that its claimed mileage is certified by ARAI, which is a govt. approved designated body for testing all mass-produced vehicles. As such, the 312 km range is a proven thing under test conditions. The company has also said that Nexon EV easily meets the minimum range requirement of 140 km, which is necessary to be covered under FAME-II subsidy scheme.
    It further said that Nexon EV has already been approved, as per the eligibility conditions mentioned in Delhi EV Policy 2020. Tata Motors had pointed out that even the complainant has mentioned 200 km range, which is higher than the minimum requirement of 140 km to qualify for the subsidy. These points helped Tata Motors get a favourable decision in the court.
    In response, Delhi government’s assertions seem to ignore all the existing rules and laws and focus solely on the complaints filed by some dissatisfied Nexon users. It’s quite like target fixation as of now. That’s unlikely to have any value in the court of law. More

  • 113 Shares149 Views

    in Motor News

    Changing of the Guard: Genesis G80 vs. BMW 840i

    When it comes to sporty, luxury sedans, the market has been dominated for decades by European-based heritage brands. It’s hard to believe any new entry would be able to pack a punch against the industry’s well-established heavyweight—until now.
    In a “Head-to-Heart” matchup between one youthful competitor and an enduring classic, automotive journalist and enthusiast, Nick Jaynes, together with Esquire’s Culture & Lifestyle Director, Kevin Sintumuang, take the opportunity to dial in on the details of the new Genesis G80 and the segment-defining BMW 840i.
    Powered by an available 375-horsepower, 3.5-liter twin-turbocharged V-6 engine, the Genesis G80 harnesses a performance-led prowess set on classic rear-wheel drive proportions. The swift acceleration and nimble handling is coupled with a comfortable adaptive suspension that creates a cushioned ride-quality on even the city’s sometimes challenging pavement.
    “Something I’ve noticed in a lot of new cars when they come out, is nothing feels that genuinely new anymore,” says Jaynes, “but Genesis, especially the G80, is one of the standouts.” With a focus on intelligence and design, the Genesis G80’s uncluttered and refined interior is a class above the rest. Provocative styling combined with sleek craftsmanship boast plush ergonomic seating and sophisticated connectivity featuring an intuitive 14.5-inch infotainment center and available wireless charging.
    But it all comes down to how the driver feels behind the wheel. Join us as we take an in-depth look at Genesis’ journey to set a new standard of luxury.
    This content is created and maintained by a third party, and imported onto this page to help users provide their email addresses. You may be able to find more information about this and similar content at piano.io More

  • 138 Shares149 Views

    in Motor News

    How to Watch 2022 Jeep Wagoneer/Grand Wagoneer Debut on March 11

    The 2022 Jeep Wagoneer and Grand Wagoneer will be revealed in a livestream at noon ET on Thursday, March 11. Before that, we’ll have full details and images here at midnight tonight.
    Jeep already showed a Grand Wagoneer concept, but this livestream event will reveal the production-ready versions.
    The Wagoneer is expected to compete with large mainstream SUVs, and the Grand Wagoneer will take on more expensive luxury rivals.
    Jeep will officially pull the covers off its newly resurrected 2022 Wagoneer and Grand Wagoneer full-size SUVs via livestream at noon on Thursday, March 11.

    Jeep Grand Wagoneer Will Top $100K, Start at $60K

    10 Easter Eggs Not to Miss on Jeep Grand Wagoneer

    Jeep Grand Wagoneer Returns as a $100K SUV

    The event will be the first time the world sees the production-ready versions of either model, but it comes after the reveal of the thinly veiled Grand Wagoneer concept last fall. At that time, we learned that the new Wagoneer and Grand Wagoneer will have three-row seating and likely compete against mainstream and luxury rivals, respectively, when they go on sale in the middle of this year.
    While official pricing hasn’t been announced, Jeep president Christian Meunier has said that the Wagoneer will start at around $60,000 and a fully loaded Grand Wagoneer will eclipse $100,000. The former is priced in the same ballpark as non-luxury rivals such as the Chevy Tahoe and Ford Expedition. The latter Jeep is priced alongside high-class alternatives such as the Cadillac Escalade and Lincoln Navigator.

    View Photos

    Jeep

    Before anyone clutches their pearls at the thought of a six-figure Jeep SUV based on the Ram 1500 pickup truck, don’t forget that the Jeep Grand Cherokee Trackhawk can crest $100K, and the half-ton Ram is available with a truly luxury-grade cabin. Considering that as well as all the cool tech and upscale options that were teased by the Grand Wagoneer concept, there are plenty of reasons to be optimistic about the reveal of the production models at noon on Thursday.
    This content is imported from {embed-name}. You may be able to find the same content in another format, or you may be able to find more information, at their web site.

    This content is created and maintained by a third party, and imported onto this page to help users provide their email addresses. You may be able to find more information about this and similar content at piano.io More

  • 100 Shares149 Views

    in Motor News

    275-HP Hyundai Kona N Previewed with Aggressive Looks

    Hyundai has shared a first glimpse at the Kona N, this time without camouflage.
    This high-performance version of the small SUV will have the same powertrain as the Veloster N.
    The Kona N will debut within the next few weeks and should arrive in the U.S. by the end of the year.
    Hyundai is about to take the Kona into the high-performance sphere, where no subcompact crossover has gone before. This is our best look yet at the Kona N, which will be the latest car to receive Hyundai’s racy treatment. From what we can see, it looks the part, and the specs are enticing too.

    Hyundai Kona N Confirmed for U.S., Specs Revealed

    Hyundai Veloster N DCT Hits 60 in 4.8 Seconds

    Like the Veloster N with which it shares its 275-hp turbocharged 2.0-liter inline-four engine, the Kona N has red accents, extra vents and scoops, and an intense-looking rear diffuser with dual exhaust tips. There’s an F1-style triangular brake light by the rear spoiler, and the 10-spoke wheels look sporty, too. The interior will likely feature aggressively bolstered seats and plenty of N badges.

    Hyundai

    Sadly, the Kona N won’t offer a manual transmission like its hot-hatch stablemate. Instead, it will come only with the eight-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission that was added to the Veloster for 2021. Hyundai hasn’t said yet whether the Kona N has front- or all-wheel drive. We can expect strong acceleration given that the Veloster N with the dual-clutch got to 60 mph in a scant 4.8 seconds in our testing.
    Look for Hyundai to share full info on the Kona N within the next few weeks.
    This content is imported from {embed-name}. You may be able to find the same content in another format, or you may be able to find more information, at their web site.

    This content is created and maintained by a third party, and imported onto this page to help users provide their email addresses. You may be able to find more information about this and similar content at piano.io More

  • 213 Shares139 Views

    in Bike

    Top 10 Electric Two Wheeler Sales Feb 2021 – Hero Electric 1st, Ather 4th, Bajaj Chetak 9th

    Ather Electric Scooter
    Currently, there are more than twenty OEMs in the two-wheeler electric mobility space in India with new brands to come in the near future

    With multiple electric vehicle (EV) offerings in the two-wheeler segment in India, it is evident that future of mobility is electric. A total of 6,059 units of electric two-wheelers was sold in February 2021 against 2,243 units sold during the same month last year. Thus resulting in YoY growth of 170.1 percent.
    Hero Electric, Okinawa Lead EV Segment
    Hero Electric was the leader of the segment with as many as 2,201 two-wheelers sold last month. During the same period last year, Hero sold 614 units witnessing a YoY growth of 258.5 percent and a market share (MS) of 36.3 percent.
    They were followed by Okinawa electric with a total sales of 1059 units last month – recording a YoY growth of 59.5 percent with an MS of 29.6 percent. Hero Electric and Okinawa were the only two OEMs to breach the 1000-mark last month. Ampere was able to retail 800 units in February this year against last year’s 286 units, therefore, witnessing a growth of 179.7 percent and an MS of 13.2 percent.
    Ather Energy continued to post sales growth despite of having only 1 scooter on offer – Ather 450X. The Bengaluru-based startup sold only 624 units last month as opposed to 368 units sold in February 2020. This resulted in YoY growth of 69.1 percent and an MS of 16.5 percent.
    Electric Two Wheeler Sales Feb 2021. Source – FADA
    Pure EV is a relatively new player in the Indian market and did well to take the fifth spot. It sold 404 EVs last month accounting for 6.7 percent of MS. Benling India sold 254 units of electric two-wheelers last month thereby accounting for an MS of 4.2 percent.
    TVS, Bajaj catching up
    TVS made its entry into the EV segment last year with iQute electric scooter. It was able to retail only 208 units of the e-scooter in February this year and resulting in an MS of 3.4 percent. Jitendra New EV sold only 124 units last month and has an MS of 2.0 percent.
    Bajaj, the Chakan-based manufacturer made its entry into the segment with Chetak Electric scooter in 2019. Being one of the largest two wheeler maker in India, it was surprising to see Bajaj lagging at ninth place with just 111 units retailed last month.
    No
    Electric 2Wheeler
    Feb-21
    Feb-20
    Growth%
    1
    Hero Electric
    2,201
    614
    258.47
    2
    Okinawa
    1,059
    664
    59.49
    3
    Ampere
    800
    286
    179.72
    4
    Ather Energy
    624
    369
    69.11
    5
    PureEV
    404
    0
    –
    6
    Benling
    254
    5
    4980.00
    7
    TVS
    208
    0
    –
    8
    Jitendra New EV
    124
    5
    2380.00
    9
    Bajaj
    111
    25
    344.00
    10
    MEW Electricals
    80
    0
    –
    11
    Revolt
    70
    155
    -54.84
    12
    Goreen E-mobility
    45
    2
    2150.00
    13
    Ira Edutech
    11
    3
    266.67
    14
    M2GO Electric
    6
    0
    –
    15
    NDS Eco Motors
    5
    51
    -90.20
    16
    Odysse Electric
    5
    0
    –
    17
    Supereco Auto
    4
    0
    –
    18
    Avan Motors
    3
    22
    -86.36
    19
    SBTEK E Moto
    2
    0
    –
    20
    Others
    43
    42
    2.38
    –
    Total
    6,059
    2,243
    170.13
    New Future Brands in India
    All the other models resulted in a sales volume of fewer than 100 units. Upcoming brands such as Ola Electric and Kabira will soon make their debuts in India in the electric mobility space and things could become interesting. Although we believe it will take some time for Indian consumers to warm up to the idea of owning a battery-powered vehicle instead of conventional fossil fuel-powered vehicles. This is primarily because of limited charging infrastructure in the country presently.
    But the times are changing rapidly. In a few years from now, the sales number of EVs are expected to increase exponentially. Most of the EV makers are currently battling problems like shortage of parts, very few dealer outlets, etc. But many of them are already working on increasing production, dealer network, launching EVs in more cities, etc.
    Bajaj has plans to launch Chetak in more cities, launch KTM / Husqvarna electric scooter / motorcycle. Hero, Yamaha, Suzuki and even Royal Enfield have plans to enter the EV segment. Apart from the big brands, there are many new brands who have either entered or have plans to enter – making the EV space one to watch out for in the coming years. More

  • 113 Shares149 Views

    in Motor News

    2021 Mercedes-Maybach S-Class Costs $75,000 More Than Benz Model

    The ultra-luxury Mercedes-Maybach S-class sedan will arrive at U.S. dealerships this summer with a starting price of $185,950.
    Based on the Mercedes-Benz S-class luxury sedan, the Maybach version sports styling embellishments, a longer wheelbase, and a decadent interior.
    The new Maybach S-class is powered by a twin-turbocharged 4.0-liter V-8 which is shared with the Benz model and makes 496 horsepower.
    Although it’s far from the most expensive car Mercedes offers, the 2021 Mercedes-Maybach S580’s asking price still dwarfs that of its Benz-branded analogue. Starting at $185,950, the sumptuously appointed luxury sedan is set to go on sale this summer and is even more expensive than the similarly posh Mercedes-Maybach GLS600 SUV as well.

    View Photos

    Mercedes-Benz

    The $75,000 price hike over the Benz S-class gets you plenty of equipment, including a standard 496-hp twin-turbo V-8 engine, a roomier rear seat thanks to the Maybach’s stretched wheelbase, and a host of deliciously decadent features such as plush pillowed headrests, a 30-speaker Burmester audio system, massaging front seats, and an in-cabin fragrance system which offers both floral and leather aromas.

    How Mercedes Transforms Luxury into Maybachs

    2021 Mercedes-Maybach S580 Luxury Liner Has It All

    2021 Maybach GLS600 Goes Shiny and Chrome

    The price tag can be jacked up even higher, too. Many of the Maybach’s best features are reserved as options, including the massaging executive rear seats and the integrated beverage cooler with matching champagne flutes. Mercedes-Maybach will also offer a host of personalization options to allow buyers to spec their ride to their exacting standards—for a price. We don’t yet know what that price is, however, as Mercedes has yet to release full option pricing.
    The Maybach S-class, despite its six-figure price tag, is still a relative bargain in the ultra-luxury marketplace. Consider that its closest rivals, the Bentley Flying Spur and the Rolls-Royce Ghost both cost more to start. The Bentley’s opens at $219,425 and the Rolls, which has recently been redesigned as well, is expected to start at over $300,000.
    This content is imported from {embed-name}. You may be able to find the same content in another format, or you may be able to find more information, at their web site.

    This content is created and maintained by a third party, and imported onto this page to help users provide their email addresses. You may be able to find more information about this and similar content at piano.io More

  • 100 Shares99 Views

    in Bike

    Honda CB350RS First Batch Owners Start Taking Delivery

    Honda CB350RS Arriving At Dealer. Image – Motovin77
    CB350 RS is Honda’s second locally manufactured motorcycle in India which is retailed through its premium chain of dealerships BigWing

    Honda launched the roadster version of CB350 last year and now they have launched a more sporty variant called CB350RS. While most of the bike is identical to its classic sibling, it does feature some cosmetic variations that help distinguish itself as a sportier iteration of the former. Now, the Japanese bikemaker has commenced deliveries of RS to dealerships across the country.
    Like its sibling, CB350 RS is exclusively retailed through the company’s premium chain of dealerships- BigWing which has limited footprints across India. The bike was launched in a single variant with two colour options at a price of Rs 1.96 lakh (ex-showroom) which makes it Rs 4,000 costlier than DLX Pro trim of H’Ness CB350.
    Honda CB350 RS First Batch Delivery Starts
    Cosmetic Differences
    The bikemaker currently operates a total of only 32 BigWing dealerships in India currently- 6 BigWing Toplines and 26 standard BigWing dealerships. CB350 RS looks like a sportier version of H’Ness CB350 where RS stands for ‘Road Sailing’. It gets redesigned side panels and a revised tail section along with an all-black treatment on various body parts. Texture of the seat, as well as its cushioning, has been updated.
    This iteration of CB350 also gets two separate grab rails for the pillion which are bolted to the rear fender unlike H’Ness which gets a single-piece grab rail. The footpegs are also a little rear-set with a slightly smaller handlebar which provides an aggressive lean forward riding posture.
    [embedded content]
    The frame, chassis, and other mechanical components are covered in a beautiful all-black theme that accentuates CB350 RS’s sporty nature. In addition, an engine bash plate and a wider rear tyre with a block pattern further distinguish the RS from H’Ness CB350.
    Same Mechanicals
    Both H’Ness CB350 and CB350 Rs share the same powertrain and hardware setup. They draw their power from a 348cc, single-cylinder, air-cooled engine which puts out 20.8 bhp at 5,500rpm with 30 Nm of peak torque at 3,000rpm. This unit is mated to a 5-speed gearbox with a slipper clutch.
    Suspension setup consists of conventional telescopic forks at front and dual shock absorbers at rear. Braking is taken care of by disc brakes at both ends while safety net is provided by a dual-channel ABS.
    Features on offer
    In terms of dimensions, both motorcycles are identical to each other, however, CB350 RS is lighter by 2 kilos. Coming to its features, CB350 RS like its classic sibling also comes with Honda Selectable Torque Control System (HSTC) which is essentially Honda’s version of traction control. However, it misses out on Bluetooth connectivity as offered in H’Ness CB350. It is available in two paint schemes- a mono-tone Radiant Red Metallic and a dual-tone Black with Pearl Sports Yellow. The latter costs Rs 2000 more than the former. More

  • 125 Shares119 Views

    in Bike

    2021 TVS Apache 160 Updated – More Torque, Less Weight

    2021 TVS Apache 160
    TVS Apache RTR 160 4V locks its horns with Hero Xtreme 160R and Bajaj Pulsar NS160

    TVS currently seems to be on a spree to update its Apache series of sporty commuter motorcycles. After the updated 2021 Apache RTR 200 4V, the Hosur-based bikemaker has now launched the 2021 Apache RTR 160 4V. Available in two variants- Drum brake and Disc brake variants, the latest iteration of the bike has been priced at Rs 1.07 lakh and Rs 1.10 lakh respectively (both prices ex-showroom).
    This means there is no increase in prices when compared to the older model. It will be offered in three colour schemes namely- Racing Red, Knight Black and Metallic Blue. Apart from a handful of cosmetic updates it also gets a slight tweak in its powertrain output as well.
    TVS Apache Prices March 2021 (Ex-Delhi)
    Cosmetic Updates
    The naked streetfighter now comes with an all-new dual-tone seat with a carbon fiber-styled pattern. It has also managed to shed 2 kilos and now tips the weighing scales at 147 kg for the disc brake variant, while the drum brake variant weighs 145 kg.
    The updated RTR 160 4V comes with a reshaped LED headlamp with claw-styled position lamps that add to its overall premium appeal. The cosmetic changes are limited to these updates only. Take a look at the official TVC of new Apache 160 below.
    [embedded content]
    Boost in Output
    However, the manufacturer has also managed to alter the output from its motor. The updated naked motorcycle is powered by a 159.7 cc, single-cylinder, 4-valve, oil-cooled engine that now kicks out 17 bhp at 9250 rpm and 14.73 Nm torque at 7250 rpm.
    This is a bump of 1 bhp and 1 Nm which makes it the most powerful bike in its segment. It is mated to a 5-speed gearbox. The bump in the motor’s output plus the reduction in its weight means an increase in power to weight ratio and will be interesting to see the impact created in its riding experience.
    On the occasion of the launch, Meghashyam Dighole, Head – (Marketing) Premium Motorcycles, TVS Motor Company, said, “The new 2021 TVS Apache RTR 160 4V offers best-in-class performance with enhanced power to weight ratio and increased torque, offering our customers better-riding experiences along with advanced technologies.”
    Features on offer
    The equipment list on the bike has not been altered as it continues to offer the same set of features including a fully digital instrument panel compatible with SmartXconnect technology. This feature allows riders to connect their smartphones with the instrument console for functionalities such as turn-by-turn navigation and phone-related operations. It also gets a ‘feather touch’ start for increased convenience. Apache RTR 160 4V competes against Bajaj Pulsar NS160 and Hero Xtreme 160R. More