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    in Motor News

    Acura Teases ‘Segment Defying’ Electric SUV Concept for Monterey Car Week

    Acura is getting ready to show off a concept car at the upcoming Monterey Car Week.The concept is described as a “segment-defying sport-utility vehicle” and looks to have a sloping roofline.The car previews Acura’s next-generation EV that will ride on a new platform and be built at Acura’s Ohio plant.Acura has announced that it will return to Monterey Car Week for 2024, where it revealed the electric ZDX Type S last year. The Japanese-American luxury brand has released a teaser for the concept car that will be unveiled next week, and while little is known about the vehicle at the moment, Acura did state that it will be an electric SUV. The concept is said to preview a next-generation EV that will be the first to ride on a new dedicated EV platform and will be assembled in Ohio.The teaser image Acura shared shows the rear of the concept, finished in a vibrant blue shade. The taillight stretches the full width of the vehicle and features a series of tightly spaced vertical LED elements. Below the taillight is illuminated “Acura” badging, and while the perspective makes it difficult to tell, the concept appears to have a sloping roofline.More Acura SUVsAcura describes the concept as a “segment-defying sport-utility vehicle.” While it’s unclear exactly what the company means by this, we think this crossover may take on a high-riding coupe-like silhouette, perhaps in a similar vein to the original Acura ZDX from 2010 or the BMW X6. The concept could also look more like a lifted sedan along the lines of the Toyota Crown. Whatever form Acura’s latest concept car takes will be unveiled in roughly a week’s time. Caleb Miller began blogging about cars at 13 years old, and he realized his dream of writing for a car magazine after graduating from Carnegie Mellon University and joining the Car and Driver team. He loves quirky and obscure autos, aiming to one day own something bizarre like a Nissan S-Cargo, and is an avid motorsports fan. More

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    in Electric Cars

    MG Windsor EV Interior Teased – Gets Business Class Like Seats

    MG Windsor EV Interior TeasedWhen launched, MG Windsor EV will be marketed as a CUV (Crossover Utility Vehicle) with high ground clearance in a niche genre without rivalsIn a bid to consolidate the electric vehicle segment in India, MG Motor is gearing up for a product offensive. First announced at the JSW MG Motor partnership event, the company aims to launch many NEVs in India. Starting with MG Windsor EV, which is touted as a CUV (Crossover Utility Vehicle), has been teased showing rear seats.MG Windsor EV Interior TeasedAhead of an official launch, MG Motor has teased the rear seat comfort of its upcoming Windsor EV. It is set to be positioned as a premium compact sized (C Segmant, 4.3m in length) electric crossover. When launched, it will spawn a new niche, where there are no players, thus setting a tone for itself.MG Cloud CUV TeasedAt the same time, MG ZS EV (electric version of Astor compact SUV), will take on the likes of just launched Tata Curvv EV, Mahindra XUV400 and upcoming Maruti Suzuki eVX and Hyundai Creta EV. Setting itself apart from other contenders in the price range, MG Windsor EV is flexing its unique seating capabilities.As seen in MG’s new teaser, Windsor EV comes equipped with special business class like seats. In this sense, it can recline up to an angle of 135 degrees, which should unlock a luxurious and relaxing commute in the city or highways. Ergonomics will be a strong key point of MG Windsor EV when it is launched.MG Windsor EV SeatsThe company calls it Aero-Lounge seats and the teaser even demonstrated the reclining seat by comparing it with an actual business class seat of an airline. The upholstery too, is of leatherette and has a unique pattern that signifies luxury and opulence.MG mentions that this seating layout has been inspired by the grandeur of Windsor Castle. Which is among the world’s largest castles and among UK’s primary tourist attractions. MG signifies that the interiors of Windsor EV are crafted to reflect same level of luxury as Windsor Castle.MG Cloud CUV InteriorWhat to expect?In MG Windsor EV, this rear bench that has been just teased gets three individual headrests along with a foldable center armrest. Rear seat occupants are further pampered with rear AC vents along with plush seats. There will be a panoramic sunroof and Windsor already has a massive glass area, elevating sense of space further.Windsor EV is expected to get a host of features and creature comforts along with safety features including ADAS suite. Powering MG Windsor EV, might be a battery pack up to 50 kWh in capacity, running a sole electric motor, driving front wheels. Claimed range on a single charge might be around 500 km.MG Cloud Crossover Utility Vehicle More

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    in Bike

    Royal Enfield Guerrilla 450 Sportsbike Details Leak – RC 390 Rival?

    Royal Enfield Guerrilla 450 SportsbikeGenre-wise, Royal Enfield Guerrilla 450 Sportsbike will rival upcoming Triumph Thruxton 400 with similar semi-faired cafe racer looksThe newly launched Guerrilla 450 has been one of the hottest motorcycle launches in India. It falls in the performance-oriented premium 300cc to 500cc motorcycle segment where a lot of action has sprung up in the recent past. Now, company’s internal presentation shows a Guerrilla 450 based sportsbike that should rival KTM RC 390.Guerrilla 450 Sportsbike IncomingA couple of years ago, a snippet from Royal Enfield’s internal presentation had leaked on the internet. This snippet showed family trees of Royal Enfield’s 350cc portfolio, 650cc portfolio and 450cc portfolio. Based on the 450cc platform, Royal Enfield is planning to launch as many as five motorcycles.Royal motorcycle launch plansTwo of these five motorcycles have been launched already in the form of Himalayan 450 and recently launched Guerrilla 450. Now, the third motorcycle is taking shape and is likely to emerge as the sportiest offering based on Royal Enfield’s Sherpa 450 platform. We’re talking about a semi-faired sportsbike whose silhouette snippet has just leaked on the internet.Owing to its semi-faired nature, it will be positioned as a retro cafe racer of sorts. It will come equipped with improved componentry as opposed to Guerrilla 450 and command a slight price premium. Other upcoming motorcycles based on Sherpa 450 platform are a Scrambler and a more off-road version of Himalayan 450.Royal Enfield Guerrilla 450When launched, this Guerrilla 450 based Sportsbike might take the name of Continental GT-R 450. As in, it has design attributes of a Continental GT 650, but has a racing semi fairing like race-spec Continental GT-R 650. These bikes are track-only and participate in Continental GT Cup racing series.Changes over Guerrilla 450As seen in the leaked snippet of the upcoming Royal Enfield motorcycle, there is an overall identical silhouette as Guerrilla 450. We can see a cowl on top of its pillion seat, which could be removable. Thus striking both practicality and style. The semi-fairing engulfs Guerrilla’s round LED headlights and extends till the fuel tank.Royal Enfield Guerrilla 450From the looks of it, there are USD telescopic front forks replacing the RSU telescopic front forks on Guerrilla 450. Bar-end mirrors are also likely to be on offer as they complete that retro cafe racer look rather well. Alloy wheels look like they’re new and might be 17-inchers at both ends wrapped with fat 160-section at the rear.Guerrilla’s Tripper Dash will be carried over too along with features like Google Maps and music control. Engine will remain to be the same 452cc single-cylinder DOHC 4V liquid-cooled engine with around 40 bhp of peak power and 40 Nm of peak torque, mated to a 6-speed gearbox. When launched, it would primarily rival the upcoming Triumph Thruxton 400.Also read – Updated Bullet 350, Meteor 350 launch after Classic 350 faceliftSource More

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    in Electric Cars

    Tata Curvv EV Accessories Brochure With Prices – Exterior Style, Interior Comforts

    Tata Curvv EV Accessories BrochureTata Curvv EV accessories kit consists of garnishes and claddings with exterior chrome accents along with a range of seat covers and floor matsTata Curvv EV has been officially launched in India. It is the 5th car in the company’s EV portfolio that will rival the likes of MG ZS EV and upcoming Creta EV in its segment. Tata Curvv and Curvv EV are loaded with innovative range of exterior and interior features. Tata has also released a range of accessories to enhance Curvv’s looks and offering buyers a degree of personalisation. Let’s take a look.Tata Curvv EV – Style AccessoriesAs revealed in the brochure, Curvv gets a tonne of accessories. These have been categorized into Style, Utility, Car Care, Lifestyle and Comfort with each category having a host of accessories intrinsic to boosting the overall appeal of the Curvv EV to even greater levels.Tata Curvv EV Accessories Brochure Price ListUnder the Style category, the list of accessories include Head Lamp + Rear Reflector Garnish. This is being offered in a choice of three finishes with carbon fiber, chrome and piano black. The doors of the Curvv EV can also be accessorized with visors with carbon fiber inserts. These allow for better in-car ventilation without the risk of rain entering the cabin. These can also be had in matching carbon and chrome.A stylish bumper garnish in choices of carbon fiber, chrome and piano black can add an even sportier appeal to the Curvv EV while the list of exterior accessories also include skid plates, spoilers and spat carbon fiber rear windscreen.Tata Curvv EV Accessories BrochureTo accentuate the sides of the Tata Curvv EV, buyers can opt for chrome body side molding, roof rails and protectors for bumper corners along with tail lamp extensions. Wireless LED illumination is also on offer that gets activated when doors are opened. Scuff plates also get wireless illumination while the list of exterior accessories also include mascot headlamp, alloy wheels and projector logo.Tata Curvv EV Accessories BrochureTata Curvv EV – Utility AccessoriesIn terms of utility, Tata Motors is offering special sun protection with magnetic umbrella type visors on the front windshield and for the four windows. There are also specially crafted mud flaps to protect tyres from mud splashes. For the boot, there is a parcel tray, 160 W car charger, and a 120 W charger retractable cable. The interiors accessories consist of screen guard, music system and FATC panel.Tata Curvv EV Accessories BrochureTata Curvv EV – Car CareTo protect the Tata Curvv EV and ensure in-cabin cleanliness, the company is offering an all in one wireless tool. This comprises a wireless car vacuum cleaner, phone charger, inflator pump, high pressure car wash gun, and portable indoor/outdoor lighting. The car washer consists of a 98V cordless washer with choices of multiple nozzles offering high pressure foam and shower cleaning options thus eliminating the need for any sort of professional cleaning service.Tata Curvv EV Accessories BrochureA car cover made from recycled PET material protects the Tata Curvv EV from all the vagaries of nature be it rain, UV rays and dust. Cabin utilities also include a leak proof 300 ml thermo-steel flask for keeping beverages hot or cold while the list of accessories also include a coffee maker and umbrella.Tata Curvv EV Accessories BrochureTata Curvv EV – Lifestyle and ComfortEnhancing lifestyle and comforts within the cabin of the Tata Curvv EV especially for dog lovers, are special pet sheets and pet feeding bowls and pet car seat belt. Driver and passenger comforts can be further enhanced via seat covers in a range of colour options, steering wheel covers, floor and boot mats.Tata Curvv EV Accessories BrochureTata Curvv EV is being offered with a warranty of 3 years or 1 lakh kms, whichever is earlier while the company is offering a 2 years warranty on the Originals range. These accessories are technically approved and do not affect or jeopardize the vehicles warranty in any way. More

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    in Bike

    Hero Electric Dealers Demand Rs 500 Crore Pending Payments – Stage Protests At HQ

    Hero Electric DealersThe dealers claim that Hero Electric has not paid them in the past two years due to which outstanding payments have escalated to around Rs 500 croresThere is an ongoing battle between Hero Electric and the company dealers. The dealers complain that even as more than Rs 150 crores have been paid to the company in advance for supply of electric scooters, the company claims otherwise, ‘jo karna hai kar lijiye’ (you are free to take any recourse). In 2021, Hero Electric had stated that they aim to sell 10 lakh electric scooters / EVs per year.Hero Electric Dealers Protest at Gurugram HQOver 200 Hero Electric dealers have been protesting outside the Hero Electric headquarters in Gurugram, seeking dues that run into hundreds of crores. In the past year alone, the dealers have deposited over Rs 150 crores into the accounts of Hero Electric. This amount was taken in advance for the supply of the company’s range of electric scooters, however, neither were deliveries made nor were warranty for spare parts provided.Hero Electric dealers protesting at company HQ pic.twitter.com/jfoL3B3TTP— RushLane (@rushlane) August 9, 2024A letter written by the dealers to the Prime Minister seeks his intervention into their grievances. The pending payment currently amounts to Rs 500 crores while at the same time leaving around 50,000 customers in dire straits due to the warranty of spares issue not being sorted out.Hero Electric Dealers AngryThis disparity between the management and its dealerships have left many dealers at their wits end. Some have even attempted suicide. They are left facing the issue of depleting sales due to no batteries and chargers being supplied which are under warranty. Subsidies to be passed on to end-customers as per the FAME-II policy has also not been reimbursed till date. The dealers also have to face angry customers who have been attacking dealers due to no servicing being offered on their vehicles.Hero Electric dealers protest – Says company holding Rs 500 crores byu/UseSimilar3989 inindianbikesNishant Bansal, a Delhi-based dealer and the President of World Federation of ZE EV and Welfare Association has stated that dealers have been left with huge debts. They now seek immediate compensation and reimbursement from the company and the assurance that outstanding warranty and supply of spare parts will be addressed on a war footing. This issue has affected over 50,000 electric vehicles from Hero Electric, leaving scores of customers dissatisfied and angry.A point to be noted is that Delhi High Court along with Punjab and Haryana High Court have also admitted petitions by Hero Electric disputing actions of the Ministry of Heavy Industries and sought recovery of pending subsidies to the tune of over Rs 550 crore since 2021.Hero Electric Management Denies AllegationsIn response to the above contention from company dealers, Hero Electric held a meeting with the dealers at the company headquarters in Gurugram, but refused to pay even a part of the outstanding dues, according to Bansal. He also stated that when urged to pay at least a part of the dues, the management refused, stating ‘jo karna hai kar lijiye’ (you are free to take any recourse). The company claimed that these claims of Rs 500 crore pending amounts is false and mischievous.A spokesperson at Hero Electric stated “Dealers have separate agreements with the company, based on their sales estimates. Production shutdown for the last nine months has caused delays; however, the company has already started production, and dispatch of vehicles has already commenced with a commitment to the dealers to resolve open issues by December 2024”. More

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    in Motor News

    ChargePoint’s New ‘Omni Port’ Is One Port to Rule Them All

    ChargePoint has a new one-size-fits-all solution to public charging with the introduction of the “Omni Port.”The Omni Port combines the Level 2 SAE J1772 plug with the Combined Charging System (CCS1) and Tesla’s NACS plugs. According to ChargePoint, users on the network enter their vehicle’s make and model, and then the charger deploys the correct port as needed. The electric-vehicle charging landscape is a confusing one. Don’t believe us? Ask any friend with an EV what they think about Chevy Bolt owners using their local fast-charger. ChargePoint, an EV charging company, aims to simplify the process for EV owners throughout North America with its new “Omni Port.”The Omni Port combines the Level 2 SAE J1772 plug with the Combined Charging System (CCS1) plug and Tesla’s proprietary North American Charging Standard (NACS) plug. The new single port lets both Tesla and non-Tesla EV drivers pull up and charge at the same station without having to choose between plugs. Because electric vehicles from various automakers currently have different charging ports, not all EVs can replenish their battery at every charger. To simplify the process for consumers, automakers have been signing up, one at a time, to adopt Tesla’s NACS plug, though none have actually made the shift yet. You can find the full list of automakers who have agreed to join the NACS network here. According to ChargePoint, people who use the ChargePoint network will simply enter their vehicle’s make and model into the app and then initiate a charge. Omni Port-equipped charging stations will then automatically deploy the correct plug for your vehicle. Customers who aren’t on the ChargePoint network can still make use of the technology by manually selecting the correct plug at the station. ChargePoint’s Omni Port will begin rolling out later this year at new locations as well as existing AC and DC stations. The Omni Port can also be added to existing ChargePoint CP6000 and Express Plus Power Link 2000 models at a nominal cost, according to the company.The company is touting the new system as the “only publicly available solution to solve North America’s EV connector confusion across AC and DC charging.” In the words of the brand’s CEO Rick Wilmer, “With Omni port, ChargePoint solved the challenges associated with a multiple connector environment, ensuring Tesla and non-Tesla drivers can continue to expect a world-class driver experience.” We’d also suggest adding a sign scaring Bolt owners away from DC fast-chargers.More on Electric VehiclesJack 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

    2025 Ford Police Interceptor Keeps the Hybrid Powertrain

    The 2025 Ford Police Interceptor Utility just launched with quality-of-life improvements and better driver safety tech. While the hybrid powertrain has been dropped from the production Explorer, it remains standard on the Interceptor.There’s also a new 12.3-inch LCD digital instrument cluster with a certified speedometer.Ford dropped the 3.3-liter V-6 hybrid powertrain from the production Explorer’s lineup following the 2023 model year. We’re happy to report that Ford Pro just launched the 2025 Police Interceptor Utility and the hybrid sticks around. Ford ProIt’s got a 285-hp naturally aspirated V-6 and a 44-hp electric motor that brings the total output to 318 horsepower. Since officers spend most of their time in the field tootling around in traffic or idling while performing routine duties like speed enforcement and traffic control—the hybrid’s battery can take over the brunt of the idle work from the engine. According to Ford, the hybrid system can save up to 838 gallons of fuel per year—resulting in savings of $17,500 over six years, assuming gas prices of $3.50 per gallon. The nonhybrid engine options are back as well, with the 285-hp 3.3-liter V-6 returning, along with the turbocharged 3.0-liter V-6 that makes 400 horsepower and 415 pound-feet of torque. The 2025 Interceptor adds some new quality-of-life changes to make officers’ lives easier. There’s a new 12.3-inch LCD digital instrument cluster with a certified speedometer to make information clearer to officers while they’re driving. More Ford Police VehiclesStandard features have also been improved, with the Police Perimeter Alert system now standard. Ford says it can detect moving threats around the vehicle, activate the rear camera, sound a chime, roll up the windows, and lock the doors. Driver safety tech is improved as well, with systems like automated emergency braking, blind-spot monitoring with cross-traffic alert, rear parking sensors, and reverse brake assist all added. Jack 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

    2024 TVS Ntorq 125 Updated With New Colours – Black Edition Launched

    2024 TVS Ntorq 125TVS Motor Company Introduces Exciting New Colour Options for TVS NTORQ LineupTVS has launched new colour variants for the Ntorq 125 and the Race XP series. This move aims to cater to diverse consumer preferences, combining style with performance. The new colours are – Turquoise, Harlequin Blue, and Nardo Grey. These additions reflect the growing trend towards minimalist and modern designs.2024 TVS Ntorq Updated – New ColoursMeanwhile, the TVS NTORQ Race XP, aimed at thrill-seekers, introduces a matte black special edition, featuring a mix of matte and glossy piano black textures, enhancing its edgy appeal. Complementing the stylish new colours, the TVS NTORQ 125 boasts a robust 124.8 cc, three-valve engine, delivering 9.5 PS at 7,000 RPM and 10.6 Nm of torque at 5,500 RPM. The scooter is equipped with several practical enhancements, including Bluetooth connectivity, a fully digital display, dual ride modes, and a signature LED headlamp, ensuring an exceptional riding experience.2024 TVS Ntorq 125 – Black EditionThe TVS NTORQ Race XP edition, built for ultimate adventure, is powered by a 124.8 cc three-valve engine that produces an impressive 10.2 PS at 7,000 RPM and 10.9 Nm of torque at 5,500 RPM, making it the most powerful scooter in its class. The scooters feature an Automatic Centrifugal Clutch, enabling smooth and effortless acceleration, with the NTORQ 125 achieving a 0-60 km/h sprint in just 8.9 seconds.2024 TVS Ntorq Key HighlightsPricing and SpecsThe new variants of the TVS NTORQ 125 and TVS NTORQ Race XP are now available at authorized TVS Motor Company dealerships across India, starting at Rs 86,871 (Ex-showroom Delhi) for the NTORQ 125 and Rs 97,501 (Ex-showroom Delhi) for the Race XP.2024 TVS Ntorq 125In terms of dimensions, both models measure 1861 mm in length, 710 mm in width, and 1164 mm in height, with a wheelbase of 1285 mm and a ground clearance of 155 mm, providing stability and comfort on various terrains. Ntorq has a kerb weight of 111 kg, making them easy to handle and manoeuvre.2024 TVS Ntorq 125For suspension, the front features Telescopic Suspension with Hydraulic Dampers, while the rear is equipped with a Coil Spring with Hydraulic Dampers, ensuring a smooth ride even on rough roads. The scooters ride on tubeless tires, with a 100/80-12 tire at the front and a 110/80-12 tire at the rear, providing excellent grip and stability.Braking is managed by a 220 mm front disc with Synchronized Braking Technology (SBT) or a 130 mm drum with SBT, along with a 130 mm rear drum brake, offering reliable and efficient stopping power. The fuel tank capacity is 5.8 liters, allowing for extended rides without frequent refuelling.2024 TVS Ntorq 125Mr. Aniruddha Haldar, Senior Vice President, Marketing – Scooters, Commuter Motorcycles & Corporate Brand, TVS Motor Company, said, “At TVS Motor, it is our endeavour to provide a platform for self-expression to our customers. The TVS NTORQ 125 and TVS NTORQ Race XP exemplify our commitment to this vision. The new striking colour variants showcase a modern approach to scooter design, seamlessly combining excitement with self-expression.” More