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    in Motor News

    Stellantis May Kill Brands Struggling to Turn a Profit, CEO Says

    Stellantis, which includes brands such as Dodge, Fiat, Jeep, Maserati, and Ram, may become more aggressive about axing ones that don’t turn a profit.Stellantis CEO Carlos Tavares said the company is willing to kill off struggling car brands, per a report by Reuters.Tavares told reporters about the potential action following weak sales results in the first half of the year. It’s nothing personal, it’s just business. At least that seems to be the new stance of Stellantis CEO Carlos Tavares. He recently said that the company is willing to kill off brands that struggle to turn a profit, according to a report by Reuters.The news follows a financial report for the first half of 2024 that showed worse-than-expected results. Outside of Maserati, which recorded first-half losses in the eight-figure range, Stellantis doesn’t report figures for individual brands.On the Chopping Block “The company’s performance in the first half of 2024 fell short of our expectations, reflecting both a challenging industry context as well as our own operational issues,” said Tavares. “If they don’t make money, we’ll shut them down. We cannot afford to have brands that do not make money.”The statement marks a position change for the Stellantis boss, who has stood behind the group’s individual brands since their 2021 merger. He told reporters he would be working with his team in the United States throughout the summer months to improve sales performance and reduce dealer inventory. Part of that work includes launching 20 new models globally this year, which Stellantis hopes will aid sales. Marc Urbano|Car and DriverThe focus is on sales in North America, which has performed below expectations. “We consider that the job is done in Europe,” said Tavares. “The job is not done in the U.S. and we are now going to take care of that work.”That could spell trouble for low-volume brands such as Maserati or Fiat, both of which fall under the Stellantis umbrella. As of 2024, the only model Fiat sells on our shores is the recently revamped 500e. Maserati, on the other hand, maintains a full lineup of internal-combustion cars and SUVs and has multiple EVs on the way. More Stellantis Production NewsJack Fitzgerald’s love for cars stems from his as yet unshakable addiction to Formula 1. After a brief stint as a detailer for a local dealership group in college, he knew he needed a more permanent way to drive all the new cars he couldn’t afford and decided to pursue a career in auto writing. By hounding his college professors at the University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee, he was able to travel Wisconsin seeking out stories in the auto world before landing his dream job at Car and Driver. His new goal is to delay the inevitable demise of his 2010 Volkswagen Golf. More

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    in Motor News

    Toyota Replacing 102K Tundra and Lexus LX Engines after Recall

    Toyota and Lexus will replace roughly 100,000 engines in Tundra trucks and LX SUVs built for the 2022 and 2023 model years.The replacement engines will resolve a May recall caused by machining debris left in the engine during the manufacturing process.The affected engines will be replaced free of charge; as of May 2024, Toyota was aware of 824 engine warranty claims that appear related to the issue. Toyota and Lexus are biting the bullet and replacing roughly 100,000 engines for owners of certain Tundra pickups and LX SUVs from the 2022 and 2023 model years. The replacement engines are necessary due to a recall issued in May caused by machining debris left in the engine during the manufacturing process. While the company had not figured out a fix at the time of the recall, an updated statement from Toyota on July 25 confirmed that Toyota’s solution is a simple one: Replace the whole dang thing. The full recall population includes 102,092 vehicles—98,568 Tundras and 3,524 LX600s. LexusThe recall only went into effect for purely gas-powered models, meaning Tundra and LX models with Toyota’s hybrid powertrain are unaffected. According to documents associated with the recall, in May 2024, Toyota was aware of 824 engine warranty claims believed to be associated with the issue. Thankfully, the brand was not aware of any injuries related to the problem. Toyota will begin contacting affected owners about the issue by late July, so right about now. Owners who are concerned their vehicle may be included can check using the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration’s website or Toyota’s recall tool. Recent RecallsJack Fitzgerald’s love for cars stems from his as yet unshakable addiction to Formula 1. After a brief stint as a detailer for a local dealership group in college, he knew he needed a more permanent way to drive all the new cars he couldn’t afford and decided to pursue a career in auto writing. By hounding his college professors at the University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee, he was able to travel Wisconsin seeking out stories in the auto world before landing his dream job at Car and Driver. His new goal is to delay the inevitable demise of his 2010 Volkswagen Golf. More

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    in Bike

    Royal Enfield Guerrilla 450 Or Himalayan 450 ADV? The One-Bike Garage Theory

    Royal Enfield Guerrilla 450 or Himalayan 450?Packing touring and off-roading hardware, Himalayan 450 proves more versatility, but Guerrilla 450 strikes ease of use for daily rides
    Ever since the Royal Enfield Guerrilla 450 was launched in India, this motorcycle has attracted a lot interest. Many buyers may be confused about choosing this or its bigger and more expensive brother, Himalayan 450. Off-roading or everyday rideability? Which will be a better fit in the on-bike garage theory? Let’s take a look.
    Guerrilla 450 Or Himalayan 450?
    For many, motorcycles are much more than just a means of transport. They find a soul in these machines. One that reflects their character and personality. Generally, motorcyclists dream of a one-bike garage. One bike for all purposes. One bike that fills all needs and gaps. The one bike that does it all.
    Guerrilla 450
    Royal Enfield’s Guerrilla 450 is a good candidate for this approach. Base model costs Rs 2.39 lakh (Ex-sh) and goes till Rs 2.54 lakh (Ex-sh) for top-spec model. Owing to its Roadster genre, it has a minimal design and weighs 185 kg. While Himalayan 450 weighs 196 kg, making it 11 kg heavier. Guerrilla 450 has a smaller 11L fuel tank as opposed to Himalayan’s 17L, which saves around 5kg in weight (1L Petrol = 775g).
    But we get all the added extras with Himalayan 450 that makes it a mighty tourer and a versatile off-roader. Guerrilla 450 base variant is Rs 46,000 cheaper than Himalayan 450’s base variant. It has to be noted that Himalayan 450 offers RE’s Tripper Dash as standard, something which is only available with top-spec variants of Guerrilla 450.
    Royal Enfield New Himalayan Front Quarter
    How different are they?
    Guerrilla 450 is a lot easier to handle and manoeuvre in the city owing to its compact dimensions. For context, Himalayan 450 measures 2,245 mm long, 852 mm wide, 1,316 mm tall and has a 1,510 mm long wheelbase. Guerrilla 450 measures 2,090 mm long, 833 mm wide, 1,125 mm tall and has a 1,440 mm long wheelbase.
    Himalayan 450’s seat height is 825 mm and can be adjusted to 845 mm, while Guerrilla 450’s seat height is a lot more accessible at 780 mm. Himalayan 450 has a higher ground clearance of 230 mm and Guerrilla’s is at 169 mm. While Guerrilla 450 will emerge as the easier and sportier motorcycle to ride, Himalayan 450 positions itself as a better tourer and off-roader.
    Royal Enfield Guerrilla 450
    Roadster or ADV Tourer?
    For the one-bike garage theory, neither Guerrilla 450 nor Himalayan are optimum recipients. Guerrilla 450 simply lacks Himalayan’s touring and off-roading capabilities. Whereas Himalayan 450 is too cumbersome to be an easy-going daily rider with its weight and stance. We wish there was a decent middle ground between Guerrilla 450 and Himalayan 450 that can bridge the gap.
    Royal Enfield Guerrilla 450 Accessories
    A custom motorcycle approach could be a solution for that. Instead of buying a Himalayan 450 and then modifying it, customising a Guerrilla 450 into a Scrambler comes out to be a lot more logical. Longer travel suspension, dual-purpose off-road tyres, RE’s official windscreen and underbelly protection and a rear luggage rack might be enough to transform Guerrilla 450 into a Scrambler. It has been noted that Royal Enfield strongly recommends against modifications from third-party components.
    New Himalayan accessories
    Also read – Royal Enfield Scram 650 (Interceptor Bear 650) design patented More

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    in Electric Cars

    MG Cloud CUV Teased Ahead of Launch – Panoramic Sunroof, Interiors, Exteriors

    MG Cloud CUV TeasedMG Cloud CUV will be the company’s third electric car in India after the ZS EV and Comet EVMG Motor India has confirmed its 3rd electric car for the Indian market. Set to be launched by September 2024, the Cloud CUV is currently doing test rounds while the company has also released teasers of this upcoming electric car. The launch of this new electric car will also mark MG’s intention to launch one or two new products in Indian every six months.MG Cloud CUV Teased – FeaturesWith just two months to go before the MG Cloud CUV is officially launched in India, these appear to be final test rounds that the electric car is undergoing. MG Motor India calls its upcoming EV a Cloud CUV (Crossover Utility Vehicle).MG Cloud Crossover Utility VehicleIt has been spied with slim LED headlamps, and an LED light bar above its grille connecting the headlamps while its front fascia also shows off an illuminated MG logo. The crossover will come with a sunroof, a large glass house, extended quarter glass sections and raked windshields at the front and rear.The MG Cloud stands 4,295mm in length, 1,850mm in width and 1,652mm in height making it wider and taller than the ZS EV. It rides on a 2,700 mm long wheelbase and is fitted with 18-inch alloy wheels wrapped with 215/55 section tyres.[embedded content]New spy shots of the interiors of the MG Cloud CUV draw our attention to a large free-standing touchscreen infotainment system and a digital instrument cluster. Steering-mounted controls, a minimalistic dashboard, horizontally positioned AC vents and circular door-mounted speakers could also be a part of its interior makeup. The 5-seater cabin sports fully reclining front seats.MG Motor has upped its selling quotient with a host of safety equipment which will include 4 airbags, hill hold assist, electronic stability control and disc brakes on all 4 wheels. It is also slated to receive ADAS which will include features such as adaptive cruise control, autonomous emergency braking, lane departure warning, etc.MG Cloud CUV InteriorBattery, Range, SpecsPower and performance specifications for the Indian market have not yet been detailed. However, in global markets, the MG Cloud EV is being offered with two battery options. These include a 37.9 kWh pack offering a 360km range and a 50.6 kWh pack capable of 460 km range.Charging up to 100% is possible in 7 hours via an AC charger and up to 80% in 30 minutes via a DC fast charger. The single electric motor offers 134 hp power and 200 Nm torque. Set to be positioned between the Comet and ZS EV in the company’s portfolio, the Cloud EV could be priced affordably from around Rs 20 lakh. Once launched, it will take on the Nexon EV and Mahindra XUV400 in its electric compact SUV segment.MG Cloud CUV More

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    in Electric Cars

    Mahindra XUV700 EV Coupe Interiors Spied – Dashboard, Sunroof, Seats, Steering

    Mahindra XUV700 EV CoupeUpcoming Mahindra XUV700 EV Coupe (XUV.e9) is likely to pack 80 kWh battery powering up to two electric motors with 200 km/h top speedTesting for Mahindra’s INGLO platform based vehicles is going in full swing. We have managed to get our hands on spy shots of XUV.e8, XUV.e9 and BE.05 electric SUV engineering test mules across the country. The latest spy shots show the interiors of Mahindra XUV700 EV Coupe (XUV.e9) in full detail. Let’s take a look.Mahindra XUV700 EV CoupeWith electric vehicles taking more prominence than they ever did, more OEMs are taking the electric route. Mahindra is no exception and sells XUV400 in India. However, the company is on the verge of launching its INGLO platform-based born electric vehicles that will play a major role in Mahindra’s global expansion strategies.Mahindra XUV700 EV CoupeIn the recent past, we posted XUV.e9’s interiors while it was loading on a plane, ready to be shipped abroad. For testing or for shooting TVCs, we presumed. But those test mules had a lot of testing equipment and were not very clear, showing fewer details about Mahindra’s upcoming electric coupe SUV.The new spy shots, however, show XUV.e9’s interiors in full clarity, revealing a lot more details we couldn’t grasp with previous spy shots. For starters, we can see that Mahindra XUV700 EV Coupe (XUV.e9) shares a lot of its switchgear and almost all of its components with XUV700. This is not a bad thing as XUV700 is quite a feature-loaded offering.Mahindra XUV700 EV CoupeDashboard is the same as Mahindra XUV700’s, but we get a new free-standing triple-screen setup that takes centre stage. Dual-zone climate control panel and AC vents, headlight control stalk, wiper control stalk, interior door trims, centre console, seats, armrests and other attributes are the same as those of XUV700.Mahindra XUV700 EV CoupeWhat are the changes?Apart from the new triple-screen layout that we mentioned above, there are a lot of new elements that these new spy shots show. For starters, there is a new twin-spoke steering wheel with an illuminated logo (Tata Motors vibes here). It is leather-wrapped and has horn pads at the ends for easy reach with thumbs (love it).Centre console still retains the lovely physical infotainment dial from XUV700, but there is a new and fancier gear selector with Blue accents. There seem to be extra speakers with XUV.e9 as suggested by the grill at the top of door trims, but this might just be a non-functional pattern too. What will be functional, though, is a hollow space on the dashboard which will be populated by a large HUD in the future.Mahindra XUV700 EV CoupeThe illuminated logo we mentioned on XUV.e9 is likely to be specific to XUV.e lineup. This is a brand new logo, which looks an infinity. It is different than Mahindra’s Twin Peaks logo. So, we get old oval Mahindra logo for CVs, Twin Peaks for PVs, a new “Infinity” logo for XUV.e range and BE logo for, well, BE range of vehicles.We also get a closer look at the leather seats as well as the fixed glass roof. Powertrains-wise, we expect Mahindra XUV700 EV Coupe (XUV.e9) to pack up to an 80 kWh battery and an option for dual motor AWD layout with around 200 km/h top speed. Launch is likely to happen in 2025 and will rival Tata Safari EV.Also read – Mahindra BE.05 base model gets unique fascia More

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    in Bike

    Yamaha MT-09 Y-AMT Semi-Automatic Gearbox Confirmed

    Yamaha MT-09 Y-AMTWith a semi-automatic gearbox option, Yamaha MT-09 Y-AMT sets itself apart against Ducati Monster, Triumph Street Triple, Kawasaki Z900Late last month, Yamaha unveiled their revolutionary semi-automatic gearbox technology. Called Y-AMT, this semi-automatic gearbox is set to change the way motorcycles are ridden. Now, Yamaha has confirmed that Y-AMT will first debut on an MT-09 street fighter style naked motorcycle powered by a 3-cylinder engine.Yamaha MT-09 Y-AMTIn Yamaha’s multi-cylinder street naked motorcycle portfolio, MT-09 is among the most powerful and menacing-looking. Yamaha calls its MT lineup as ‘The Dark Side Of Japan’ owing to its animalistic design DNA. With the introduction of Yamaha MT-09 Y-AMT, the company will offer ease of riding to buyers.Yamaha MT-09In recent years, manufacturers have been exploring automatic and semi-automatic gearboxes on their premium motorcycles. However, these are mostly introducing with large ADVs and Bagger motorcycles owing to the ease of ride and comfort. Yamaha, on the other hand, is switching up the game.Yamaha’s Y-AMT is said to be more optimised for performance riding than comfort and practicality. That seems to be the sole reason why Y-AMT will debut on a 120 PS sporty and performance-oriented motorcycle powered by the famous CP3 890cc 3-cylinder liquid-cooled screamer of an engine.[embedded content]Semi-automatic gearboxes have become more prominent in the recent past with BMW (Automated Shift Assistant on R 1300 GS ADV) and KTM (AMT on upcoming ADV) actively pursuing this tech. Yamaha has also experimented with semi-automatics before with Y-CCS (Yamaha Chip Controlled Shift) and Y-AMT is the latest iteration after 2 decades.How does it work?The whole system of Yamaha’s Y-AMT weighs just 2.8 kg and is touted to be quicker than a quick-shifter. There is an AT/MT toggle on bike’s switchgear. This allows the rider to choose between automatic and manual shifts, taking matters into his hands (quite literally). There are “+” and “-” paddles on left switchgear, like paddles in a car.Yamaha MT-09A traditional clutch lever and foot-operated gear selector are completely absent. Y-AMT works in conjunction with bike’s ride-by-wire throttle. Hence it is optimised for features like cruise control and riding modes. Yamaha has also baked in D and D+ modes which can be cycled between using “Mode” button on switchgear. D is more relaxed and D+ offers heightened performance.Over a year ago, Yamaha showcased a bunch of new multi-cylinder motorcycles to select Indian dealers. These were YZF-R3, YZF-R7, MT-03, MT-07 and MT-09 multi-cylinder motorcycles. Among these, only R3 and MT-03 were launched in India. R7, MT-07 and MT-09 are expected to launch at a later date. Probability of Yamaha MT-09 Y-AMT launching in India is pretty low. More

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    in Bike

    Harley X440 Sales Decline To 459 Units In June 2024 – Rs 15k Discount Announced (RE Guerrilla 450 Effect?)

    Harley X440It is possible that entry of Royal Enfield Guerrilla 450 could have prompted the discount offer on Harley-Davidson X440Harley Davidson X440, once a rising star in the Indian motorcycle market, has seen a concerning decline in sales over the past several months. The initial excitement and strong performance have tapered off, raising questions about the future trajectory of this model.Harley X440 Vivid variant – New priceMany OEMs announce discounts and offers during Independence Day celebrations. A recent example is the Rs 15,000 discount available on Harley-Davidson X440 mid-spec Vivid variant. Prices of X440 Denim base variant and top-spec X440 S remain unchanged at Rs 2.39 lakh and Rs 2.79 lakh, respectively.New Harley Davidson X440Prior to the discount offer, Harley X440 Vivid variant was available at Rs 2,59,500. With the discount applied, the X440 Vivid will now be available at Rs 2.45 lakh. This is a limited period offer, applicable till 15th August. The offer may also depend on stock availability at the dealership. Harley-Davidson X440 is being sold via select Hero MotoCorp dealerships. This is as per the partnership between Hero MotoCorp and Harley-Davidson.Low demand possible reasonFrom September 2023 to June 2024, Harley Davidson X440 sales in India have accumulated to 16,898 units, with an average of 1,690 units per month. Despite this average, the declining trend in monthly sales is evident and alarming. Harley Davidson X440’s sales decline suggests several potential issues. The initial high sales may have been driven by early adopters and enthusiasts, but sustaining this momentum has proven challenging. Factors such as market competition, economic conditions, and possibly unmet customer expectations could be contributing to the waning interest.Harley X440 Sales Since Launch in IndiaOne of the key reasons for the discount offer on Harley X440 could be the low demand for the mid-spec Vivid variant. Moreover, with the launch of Royal Enfield Guerrilla 450 at an attractive price of Rs 2.39 lakh, enquiries may have reduced for the X440 Vivid variant. With potentially high inventory at some dealerships, a discount offer can be useful in boosting sales numbers.In the sub-500cc segment, consumers now have various other options to choose from. The most recent addition was Bajaj Pulsar 400, which is available at an affordable price of Rs 1.85 lakh. Pulsar 400 is currently the most affordable bike in its class. Market response has been exceptional, with Pulsar 400 registering sales of 2,515 units in June. Among all the 400cc bikes manufactured by Bajaj, the Pulsar 400 is now the top selling product. It is ahead of Triumph 400, KTM 390, Dominar 400 and Husqvarna 401.Harley X440 – Specs and featuresPowering Harley-Davidson X440 is a 440cc, single cylinder, air-oil cooled, long stroke engine. It generates 27 bhp and 38 Nm. The 6-speed gearbox has been designed to suit the needs of highway cruising as well as city commuting. Suspension system comprises USD 43mm double cartridge forks at front and gas filled twin shocks (7-step preload adjustable) at rear. Braking duties are performed by 320 mm front and 240 mm rear disc brakes. Dual-channel ABS is offered as standard.Harley X440 has an all-LED headlamp with multi-projectors and signature DRL, LED winkers and LED tail lamp. The instrument unit is a 3.5-inch TFT display with Bluetooth connectivity. Users can access calls, music and turn-by-turn navigation.Features specific to Harley X440 Vivid variant include alloy wheels and tubeless tyres. Colour options include Metallic Thick Red and Metallic Dark Silver. The X440 Vivid variant misses out on several features that are available with only the top-spec S variant. For example, X440 Vivid variant does not get diamond-cut alloy wheels. Another key feature missing is the eSIM. This allows a range of connected features such as vehicle tracking, geo-fencing and remote immobilization. More

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    in Electric Cars

    Tata Curvv EV TVC Shows Interiors And Exteriors Cinematically

    Tata Curvv EV TVCWhen launched, Tata Curvv EV will rival the likes of MG ZS EV, Mahindra XUV400 and upcpoming Hyundai Creta EV and Maruti eVXTata Motors has increased the heartbeats of India’s car enthusiasts with its stunning new Curvv. Set to launch soon, Tata Curvv has been one of the most anticipated cars of 2024. There will be ICE and EV versions at launch. In one of its new TVC’s, Tata Motors has showcased Curvv EV’s stylish exteriors and a glimpse of the car’s interiors. Let’s take a look.Tata Curvv EV TVCThe dawn of Coupe SUVs for mainstream Indian audiences seems to be here and Tata Motors is embracing it. Curvv dons a stylish coupe sloping roofline and a stunning design. Production-spec versions of both Curvv ICE and Curvv EV have been officially revealed and there have been a few teasers here and there.Tata Curvv EV TVCTata Motors just revealed a new TVC video of Curvv EV showing vehicle’s rough and off-road abilities. This is done by tackling the mighty Sandakphu situated at very high altitude. The roads are treacherous and demand capability from cars and skills from drivers.Tata Curvv EV TVCIn this video showing Curvv EV’s ascent to Sandakphu, Tata Motors welcomes Curvv to their SUV family. In this video, we can see a few glimpses of Curvv EV’s interior, which was officially under wraps up until now. The video reveals an almost identical interior to Nexon EV. This is not a bad thing as Nexon is fairly well equipped.[embedded content]We can see a similar dashboard with the same 12.3-inch touchscreen infotainment display with wireless Android Auto and Apple CarPlay, 10.25-inch fully digital instrument display with a full-screen navigation feature and other switches and attributes. Steering is from the Harrier and Safari with illuminated Tata logo.Centre console will be largely unchanged from Nexon EV’s. Leatherette seats with ventilated function, auto-dimming IRVM, and touch and toggle climate controls. Curvv is expected to get electrically adjustable front seats over Nexon EV. 2nd-row 2-step reclining seats, electric tailgate with gesture control, and 45W fast USB chargers at the front and rear are other notable features.Tata Curvv EV TVCSpecs & featuresTata Curvv EV TVC shows off-roading capabilities that are backed by decent performance to tackle inclines up to 60 degrees. In that regard, Curvv EV is speculated to come equipped with a 55 kWh battery pack mated to a single motor set up in a FWD layout. We would reckon Curvv EV may pack a more powerful motor too.For reference, Nexon EV LR comes with an electric motor with 143 bhp, 215 Nm and a 100 km/h sprint in a claimed 8.9 seconds. Underpinned by the modular and scalable Acti.ev platform, Curvv EV boasts improved dynamics and rideability too. More