Aurelia Butler

More stories

  • 113 Shares189 Views

    in Electric Cars

    From Range Anxiety to Charging Myths: Understanding EVs Better

    Hyundai 180 kW DC Fast ChargingEvery powertrain has advantages and disadvantages, but it is important to look at the overall package to make the right selection
    While EVs may seem new, the fact is that EVs had existed well before the first ICE car was commercially produced in the late 19th century. In the US, around 1/3rd of all vehicles were electric by 1900. However, with the introduction of more affordable ICE cars like Ford Model T, electric car sales started to decline.
    Now, more than a century later, the world is witnessing a comeback of electric tech. Brands like Tesla have contributed significantly to ensure faster adoption of electric cars. However, ICE and EV sales data reveals that EVs are still a long way from unlocking their full potential. The general resistance to EVs may be more about perceptions rather than real issues. Let’s take a look at some claims commonly made about EVs and find out if they are true.
    EVs don’t have enough range
    While this may have been true earlier, it is important to note that battery technology has undergone significant advancements in recent years. Furthermore, a lot of research is underway to make battery packs even better in terms of efficiency and safety. As of now, many EVs have a range of over 500 km. Even mass market EVs have a range of around 300 to 400 km. This is adequate for weekly commuting needs or intercity travels. Moreover, with continuously improving EV charging infrastructure, the range anxiety is now actually just a perception issue.
    Charging infrastructure is not ready
    When people form certain perceptions, it becomes quite difficult to change that. It is true that charging infrastructure was quite inadequate when the first EVs came on the roads. But as of now, the charging infrastructure has grown by leaps and bounds. There are now thousands of public EV charging stations in India alone. These can be easily located with the right app.
    Locate over 10,000 charging stations across India in the myHyundai app
    For example, myHynudai app has info about more than 10,000+ EV charging stations currently in India. Hyundai currently offers only the Ioniq 5 EV in India. However, the company will soon expand its EV portfolio to include multiple mass market products including the Creta EV.
    EVs charge slowly
    One of the major disadvantages of EVs can be its slow battery charging speed. Imagine being forced to wait for hours to charge your EV. This situation may be real earlier, but quite a myth with the current-gen battery packs. As a matter of fact, fast charging is one of the key focus areas for EV manufacturers. Current-gen battery packs are capable of recharging up to 80% in just around 30 minutes. And 50 to 100 km can be loaded in just around 10 minutes. By the time you have a coffee, your EV will be refuelled to reach the destination.
    Many EV manufacturers also offer 24/7 roadside assistance. It includes mobile battery charging using a specialized charging vehicle, equipped with a generator. This is a second layer of assurance, in case the battery is completely drained before reaching a charging station.
    EVs are not suitable for Indian roads
    While EVs may appear to be fragile as compared to their ICE counterparts, this is again just a thing of perception. Modern EVs utilize a strong chassis and specialized protective structures to secure the battery pack. For example, ultra-high-strength steel is used for the protective structure around the battery pack. Furthermore, the battery pack is secured to the floor with the use of specialized mounting systems. As far as the advanced, current-gen EVs are concerned, the claim that EVs are not suitable for Indian roads seems like a myth.
    As is evident from above, most of the claims made against EVs seem like a myth. Hopefully, with awareness, people can better understand the truth about EVs. More

  • 138 Shares99 Views

    in Bike

    Royal Enfield Scram 440 Debuts – 6-speed Gearbox, More Power, Torque

    Royal Enfield Scram 440 DebutsThe just debuted Royal Enfield Scram 440 is the spiritual successor of Scram 411 and it will be launched in January 2025
    Iconic motorcycle manufacturer, Royal Enfield, is currently on a roll revealing and launching new motorcycles left, right and centre. The company just launched Interceptor Bear 650 in India, showcased Goan Classic 350 and now, it has debuted Scram 440 at Motoverse 2024 in Goa, which is the spiritual successor of Scram 411. Let’s take a look.
    Royal Enfield Scram 440 Debuts
    Right after showcasing Goan Classic 350 Bobber-style motorcycle, Royal Enfield has taken the veil off its new scrambler. Instead of positioning it on the Sherpa 450 platform underpinning Himalayan 450 and Guerrilla 450, Scram 440 is positioned on the same platform that underpinned Scram 411. There are as many as 5 unique colourways with Scram 440.
    Royal Enfield Scram 440 Debuts
    Unlike its predecessor which derived its powertrain from Himalayan 411, Scram 440 doesn’t derive the Sherpa 450 engine from Himalayan 450. Instead, it is powered by a modified version of 411 block displacing 443cc, courtesy of a 3mm bigger bore on its long-stroke (LS) engine.
    Results of which, Scram 440 now boasts 25.4 bhp of peak power and 34 Nm of peak torque. When compared to Scram 411, performance metrics are up by a total of 1 bhp and 2 Nm. However, the main change over Scram 411 comes in the form of a 6-speed gearbox, replacing the older 5-speed unit.
    Royal Enfield Scram 440 Alloy Wheel
    This should change this motorcycle’s performance characteristics, unlocking better highway cruising speeds. For enthusiasts, main draw for Scram over Himalayan was its lower kerb weight and manoeuvrability. I personally know someone who sold their Himalayan 411 in favour of Scram 411.
    New Variants, Improved Components
    Unlike Scram 411, Royal Enfield Scram 440 comes in two distinct variants – Trail and Force. Trail variant stays true to its name with wire-spoke wheels with block-pattern tyres, while Force variant comes is more road biased as it gets alloy wheels with tubeless tyres.
    Royal Enfield Scram 440 Accessories
    Braking equipment now gets bigger calipers than before. Which is a good thing considering the added performance. There is dual-channel ABS as standard, which is switchable, if rider wants to have some fun off-road. Seat height is 795 mm despite the ground clearance being 200 mm, which is very accessible. It would be nice if Royal Enfield offered a Tripper Screen as standard.
    Overall design and aesthetics are similar to Scram 411. Notable features include knuckle guards, single-piece seat, circular semi-digital instrument cluster, circular fully LED headlight, circular ORVMs, halogen turn indicators and playful dual-tone colours, among others. While an exact launch date has not been announced, Royal Enfield is expected to launch it in January 2025.

    Source More

  • 175 Shares199 Views

    in Bike

    2025 Suzuki V-Strom SX Launch Price JPY 591,800 (Rs 3.24L) – Gets New Colour

    2025 Suzuki V-Strom SX 250 Sonoma Red MetallicWith a fully-digital instrument cluster, 2025 Suzuki V-Strom SX 250 packs Bluetooth connectivity along with turn-by-turn navigation
    Based on the highly competitive 250cc platform, Suzuki V-Strom SX has been a potent ADV-style motorcycle. In Japan, Suzuki has updated the V-Strom SX for MY25 and gave it a brand new colour apart from outgoing palette. This new colour aims at uplifting V-Strom SX’s overall appeal than before.
    2025 Suzuki V-Strom SX
    If there is one motorcycle lineup in India known to be the most underrated, it has to be Suzuki’s 250cc lineup. Based on this platform, Suzuki sells three body variations – Gixxer 250 (Street Fighter), Gixxer SF 250 (Supersports) and V-Strom SX 250 (ADV-style Tourer). The most expensive of these trio is Suzuki V-Strom SX 250.
    2025 Suzuki V-Strom SX 250 Sonoma Red Metallic
    In Japan, Suzuki just updated its V-Strom SX for 2025 model year with a new colour. At the same time, Suzuki has also updated V-Strom SX’s pricing for MY25 in Japan. Suzuki has revised the price of V-Strom SX from JPY 569,800 (including tax) to JPY 591,800 (including tax). Launch will happen on November 28th.
    In today’s currency exchange rates, this pricing turns out to be Rs 3.11 lakh and Rs 3.24 lakh, respectively. The newly added colour is a striking one. Suzuki calls it Sonoma Red Metallic and is a lovely shade of Red, complementing V-Strom SX’ new-age design. The new Sonoma Red Metallic joins the palette containing Champion Yellow No. 2 and Glass Sparkle Black.
    2025 Suzuki V-Strom SX 250 Colours in Japan
    In India, Suzuki V-Strom SX is among the slow sellers in the market. If we take sales performance in September 2024, V-Strom SX sold 626 units. Having more colours can boost sales proposition of this adventure tourer. As of now, Suzuki Motorcycles India has not made any announcements for colour add-ons or updates for V-Strom SX.
    For context, India-spec Suzuki V-Strom SX 250 gets Champion Yellow No. 2 and Glass Sparkle Black colours that JDM gets. On top of these two, there is a Pearl Blaze Orange shade for India that aims to appeal to young buyers. The new Sonoma Red Metallic might increase the sales proposition in Indian market.
    2025 Suzuki V-Strom SX 250 Sonoma Red Metallic
    Any other changes?
    Apart from the new colour and revised prices, V-Strom SX 250 remains the same. It is still powered by the same SOHC 4V oil-cooled single-cylinder engine that is capable of generating 26.1 bhp of peak power and 22.2 Nm of peak torque, mated to a 6-speed gearbox.
    19-inch front, 17-inch rear alloy wheels wrapped with 100/90 front and 140/70 rear tyres, single disc brake setup at both ends, dual-channel ABS, RSU telescopic front forks, rear mono-shock, tall windscreen, semi-fairing bodywork, LED lighting, fully digital LCD cluster with Bluetooth and navigation are notable attributes. More

  • 213 Shares109 Views

    in Bike

    Ather Eight70 8 Yr / 80k Kms Warranty Launch Price Rs 5K – For Pro Users Only

    Ather Eight70 Warranty Plan LaunchedWith Ather Eight70 warranty plan, buyers can expect a sense of assurance of 70% performance even after 8 years or 80,000 km
    One of India’s leading electric scooter manufacturers, Ather Energy, is gaining more and more prominence in the market. Currently, Ather is the 4th highest-selling electric 2W manufacturer in India, trailing behind Ola, TVS and Bajaj. The company has come up with a new warranty plan to provide assurance for Pro users.
    Called Ather Eight70, the company mentions that it is their most comprehensive battery warranty yet. However, Ather Eight70 warranty is an add-on purchase worth Rs 4,999 and is only limited to Pro users, neglecting all the Ather owners who didn’t opt for Pro Packs for additional cost over Ex-sh prices.
    Ather Eight70 Warranty Plan Launched
    Ather Eight70 Warranty Plan
    Tarun Mehta, CEO of Ather Energy, took to social media platform X to announce their most comprehensive battery warranty plan yet. Called Eight70, this battery warranty costs Rs 4,999 for Pro users only and covers for 8 years or 80,000 km and adds 70% performance assurance on top of it.
    In Tarun Mehta’s words, “Ather’s battery will maintain at least 70% of its original health even after 8 years. Even after 8 years, your scooter will continue to deliver great range, top speed, acceleration, and gradeability”. Notably, there seems to be a 70% performance assurance for 5 years or 60,000 km, free of cost for Pro Pack owners.
    Ather Eight70
    He further explains “There’s a fair bit of data backing this too now. Owners have been riding Athers since 2018. And after five years, the median Battery Health for our batteries was still at 90%. That’s what gives us the confidence to launch this program —assuring a minimum of 70% battery health for up to 8 years. And if your battery ever drops below that threshold during this period, we’ll replace it.”
    What is Covered?
    If you are an existing or new Ather customer and have opted for the Pro Pack for an additional cost, you are eligible to opt Eight70 battery warranty plan for an additional Rs 4,999. The company will provide “repair or replacement” of battery if there is a manufacturing defect or workmanship error or if battery health falls below 70% within the coverage period.
    Ather Eight70
    Company is also extending Eight70 warranty for deep discharge of cells. However, customer negligence, modifications made to battery, deletion or alteration of VIN and BIN, theft, abuse, accident, flooding, fire etc. are not covered under this plan. Also, Battery’s natural wear and tear or any physical damage in parts & conditions is excluded.
    The Rs 4,999 billing for Eight70 initiates from the date of vehicle invoice and not invoice date. So, for an Ather scooter bought in 2018 (with Pro Pack, of course), Eight70 battery warranty initiates from date of invoice in 2018 to 2026. With the launch of Eight70 battery warranty package, it becomes yet another reason to tempt buyers into choosing Pro Pack for extra cost while purchasing.
    Ather Eight70
    Also read – Ather Care Service Plans Launched More

  • 163 Shares169 Views

    in Electric Cars

    Mahindra XEV 9e and BE 6e Official Sketch – New Heartcore Design Revealed

    Mahindra XEV 9e Electric Origin SUV – Official SketchMahindra Unveils Teaser Sketches of BE 6e and XEV 9e: A New Era of Design and Innovation
    Mahindra has released teaser sketches of its upcoming Electric Origin SUVs, BE 6e and XEV 9e, offering a glimpse into a bold and innovative future. These sketches highlight a new chapter for Mahindra, blending cutting-edge technology, dynamic styling, and emotional appeal. Both SUVs are set to make their global debut on November 26, 2024, and promise to redefine automotive design.
    Heartcore Design: Emotion Meets Innovation
    Mahindra’s “Heartcore Design” philosophy drives the creation of the BE 6e and XEV 9e. This design approach is about more than aesthetics—it’s about crafting SUVs that establish a deep emotional connection with their owners. Every line and curve is thoughtfully curated to evoke a sense of pride and luxury while delivering exceptional functionality.
    Mahindra BE 6e Electric Origin SUV – Official Sketch
    The exteriors of these SUVs are designed to captivate, with dynamic proportions and bold details that exude confidence. The interiors, on the other hand, prioritize premium materials and advanced technology, ensuring a luxurious and intuitive driving experience. Together, these elements create vehicles that resonate deeply with customers and stand out as unmistakably Mahindra.
    Pratap Bose, Chief Design & Creative Officer – Auto & Farm Sectors, Mahindra & Mahindra Ltd. said, “Heartcore Design is about creating an emotional bond with our customers through design. Prepare to fall in love with our Electric Origin SUVs.”
    Mahindra XEV 9e Electric Origin SUV – Official Sketch
    Exterior Design: Commanding and Futuristic
    The teaser sketches reveal aggressive yet refined exterior designs for the BE 6e and XEV 9e. Both SUVs feature aerodynamic silhouettes, distinctive LED lighting, and seamless body lines. The BE 6e boasts sharp angular edges and a muscular stance, while the XEV 9e emphasizes a sporty coupe-like profile with vertical lighting elements and a minimalist grille. Flush door handles and striking alloy wheels underline their premium feel, while the overall design language speaks to Mahindra’s commitment to bold, innovative aesthetics.
    Mahindra BE 6e Electric Origin SUV – Official Sketch
    Interior Design: Crafted for Connection
    Inside, the BE 6e and XEV 9e reflect Mahindra’s focus on crafting interiors that are as functional as they are luxurious. The BE 6e features a dual-screen cockpit layout, illuminated steering wheel logo, and ambient lighting, creating an immersive driving environment.
    Mahindra BE 6e Electric Origin SUV – Official Sketch
    The XEV 9e, with its triple-screen dashboard and white upholstery, offers a sophisticated and high-tech ambiance. Both cabins are designed with premium materials and showcase progressive proportions that prioritize comfort and connectivity.
    Mahindra XEV 9e Electric Origin SUV – Official Sketch
    The BE 6e and XEV 9e embody Mahindra’s commitment to innovation and modern luxury. These SUVs not only highlight the brand’s design evolution but also reflect its ambition to set new benchmarks in the electric SUV segment. With their global unveiling just days away, Mahindra is positioning itself at the forefront of electric mobility, offering vehicles that inspire and excite. More

  • 150 Shares199 Views

    in Bike

    2025 Yamaha R125 Launch Price £5,450 (Rs 5.80L) – New Features, Colours

    2025 Yamaha R125With enhanced features on its 5-inch TFT instrument console, the 2025 Yamaha R125 offers users a more connected riding experience
    Yamaha’s entry-level SuperSport offering, the R125, has been updated with new colours and tech features. Mechanically, the bike remains largely unchanged. The last time it had received a major update was in 2023. With the new features, Yamaha is uplifting the connected experience for riders.
    2025 Yamaha R125 – What’s new?
    With the 2025 R125, Yamaha has focused on improving its connectivity features. While the 5-inch TFT instrument console is the same as earlier, it gets new features such as destination weather information and turn-by-turn navigation. Users won’t have to stop to check calls and text, as previews will now be displayed on the TFT screen. Music selection also becomes easier with song and artist information displayed on the screen.
    2025 Yamaha R125 New TFT Features
    The 5-inch colour TFT screen will continue with the features that were available earlier. Yamaha has provided a clear UI, allowing users to access information without any hassles. A quick glance reveals all the necessary information. The TFT screen has two themes – Street and Track. Users can choose as per their preference or riding situation. Moreover, the programmable shift light and RPM meter range can be easily adjusted as per the user’s riding style and personal preferences.
    Talking about colours, 2025 Yamaha R125 is available in Icon Blue and Tech Black colour options. Pricing is the same for both variants. Icon Blue is essentially a striking Blue-Black mix, with some shades of white on the fairing. The alloy wheels also have a blue shade.
    Updated Yamaha R125
    Parts of the side fairing and the exhaust heat shield have a blacked-out finish. The R125 logo comes in a contrasting turquoise colour. The combo of dark blue and black ensures a strong road presence. Second colour option of Tech Black is essentially an all-black theme. Only a narrow strip on the fairing has a grey shade to accommodate the R125 logo.
    2025 Yamaha R125 engine, specs
    Powering the 2025 Yamaha R125 will be the same 125cc engine as earlier. The liquid-cooled, SOHC, 4-valve engine generates 15 PS and 11.5 Nm. It is mated to a constant mesh, 6-speed gearbox. The engine has VVA (Variable Valve Actuation) tech that boosts torque delivery and enhances response across the entire RPM range.
    Updated Yamaha R125
    Yamaha R125 has a Deltabox frame with 41 mm KYB USD front forks and swingarm rear suspension. Braking setup comprises 292 mm and 220 mm disc brakes at front and rear. Yamaha R125 has 17-inch wheels at both ends, with 100/80 front and 140/70 rear tyres. Wet weight is 141 kg, whereas seat height is 820 mm.
    Other key features of Yamaha R125 include a traction control system. It ensures enhanced control during critical situations such as hard acceleration. Power supplied to the rear wheel is reduced in case a wheel slip is detected. R125 is also equipped with an Assist and Slipper clutch that ensures smooth deceleration. Users can also upgrade with a quick shift system for smooth upshifts. This is available as an optional feature. More

  • 213 Shares169 Views

    in Electric Cars

    Mahindra BE 6e and XEV 9e New Details – Battery (59-79 kWh), Charging (20-80% in 20 min)

    Mahindra INGLO Architecture – BE 6e and XEV 9eAhead of launch of their Electric Origin SUVs on 26th November, Mahindra has shared new details regarding the INGLO Architecture
    Mahindra is set to shake things up in the electric mobility space with the upcoming BE 6e and XEV 9e SUVs, both built on the brand’s innovative INGLO Electric Origin Architecture. Designed from the ground up with an “Electric Origin” philosophy, INGLO represents a purpose-built platform for next-generation EVs that prioritize efficiency, safety, performance, and sustainability.
    Lightweight, Flat-Floor Design
    At the core of INGLO’s innovation is its lightweight skateboard structure, offering a flat-floor design that eliminates the central tunnel and maximizes cabin space. This design enhances comfort, seating flexibility, and stability. The modularity of the INGLO platform allows Mahindra to adapt the architecture across diverse models, seamlessly transitioning from the athletic BE 6e to the elegant XEV 9e without compromising quality or performance.
    Mahindra INGLO Architecture – BE 6e and XEV 9e
    Battery Efficiency and Fast Charging
    The INGLO platform redefines battery performance with options of 59 kWh and 79 kWh capacities. Using advanced LFP battery chemistry and cell-to-pack technology, Mahindra promises not only long-lasting durability and safety but also exceptional range. Fast-charging capabilities allow the battery to charge from 20% to 80% in just 20 minutes with a 175 kW DC charger.
    Mahindra INGLO Architecture – BE 6e and XEV 9e
    Safety and Stability at the Forefront
    Safety is paramount in the INGLO platform. The low placement of the battery pack enhances stability and handling, addressing the common high center of gravity in SUVs. Built with ultra-high-strength boron steel, the structure integrates the battery into the underbody, forming a protective cage around the passenger cabin.
    Mahindra INGLO Architecture – BE 6e and XEV 9e
    Unmatched Performance
    With an ultra-lightweight skateboard platform, INGLO maximizes efficiency without sacrificing performance. The compact three-in-one powertrain, which combines the motor, inverter, and transmission, delivers power outputs ranging from 170-210 kW for rear-wheel drives, ensuring a dynamic and thrilling driving experience. In the INGLO based electric SUVs, the vehicle and the driver will become one, says Mahindra.
    Mahindra INGLO Architecture – BE 6e and XEV 9e
    Intelligent Vehicle Dynamics
    The BE 6e and XEV 9e are engineered for exceptional handling, featuring a semi-active suspension system, high-power steering, and brake-by-wire technology. The addition of intelligent drive modes ensures seamless adaptation to diverse driving conditions.
    [embedded content]
    With a global outlook and an Indian heart, the BE 6e and XEV 9e represent Mahindra’s commitment to redefining electric mobility. The INGLO platform combines cutting-edge technology with practical innovation to create SUVs that are dynamic, spacious, and efficient.
    As Mahindra prepares for the Unlimit India event on November 26th, anticipation builds around these Electric Origin SUVs. Promising to set new standards in the EV segment, the BE 6e and XEV 9e are poised to lead India’s charge into a new era of sustainable, high-performance electric vehicles. More

  • 100 Shares99 Views

    in Bike

    Honda Teases Activa Electric’s Dual Removable Battery Setup

    Honda Activa Electric – Swappable batteryIn the latest teaser ahead of the much-anticipated Activa Electric launch on November 27, 2024, Honda has unveiled the scooter’s removable battery setup
    The new eActiva teaser highlights a dual battery configuration designed to provide enhanced convenience and practicality for urban commuters. The batteries are neatly housed under the seat, where they can be easily removed and replaced once depleted.
    Dual Battery Convenience: A Game-Changer for Electric Mobility
    The removable battery setup confirms Honda’s focus on addressing common pain points of electric vehicle users, such as long charging times and range anxiety. With two compact batteries tucked under the seat, the Activa Electric ensures riders can quickly swap out empty batteries for fully charged ones, eliminating downtime. This feature aligns with Honda’s broader strategy to incorporate swappable battery technology into its electric two-wheelers, supported by its subsidiary, Honda Power Pack Energy India Private Limited, based in Bangalore.
    [embedded content]
    What sets the Activa Electric apart is the inclusion of a swappable battery system—a feature currently missing from some of the top-selling electric scooters in India, such as the Ola S1, TVS iQube, and Bajaj Chetak, which all rely on fixed battery setups. While these scooters have gained popularity for their features and performance, the inability to swap batteries means users must wait for charging, which can be a drawback for those with tight schedules.
    Honda’s approach with the Activa Electric could work in its favor, especially for riders prioritizing convenience and flexibility. The ability to swap batteries quickly allows users to extend their range without downtime, making it a practical solution for urban commuters and long-distance riders alike.
    Practical Design and Enhanced Utility
    The design of the dual battery system emphasizes practicality. Positioned under the seat, the batteries are easy to access without compromising the scooter’s storage space or aesthetics. This setup offers several key advantages:
    Ease of Use: The batteries can be removed and replaced effortlessly, making it convenient for users of all age groups.
    Extended Range: Riders can carry spare batteries for long trips, ensuring uninterrupted rides.
    Swappable Infrastructure: With Honda’s battery-sharing service subsidiary already established, this setup aligns perfectly with plans for a robust swappable battery network.
    What to Expect from the Activa Electric
    The Activa Electric has already generated buzz with previous teasers showcasing its advanced digital instrument cluster, sleek design, and performance capabilities. Combining these with the newly revealed dual battery system solidifies Honda’s intent to deliver a feature-rich, practical, and user-friendly electric scooter.
    The dual removable battery system adds yet another layer of innovation, catering to urban commuters looking for eco-friendly mobility solutions without the limitations of traditional charging systems. The Activa Electric is set to launch on November 27, 2024, in Bangalore, where Honda’s battery-swapping infrastructure is headquartered. With features like this dual battery setup and a likely range exceeding 100 km per charge, Honda is poised to make a significant impact on India’s electric scooter market. More