Aurelia Butler

More stories

  • 188 Shares169 Views

    in Bike

    Hero Surge can be an Electric Scooter or Rickshaw – 2 in 1 Convertible EV

    Hero Surge convertible EVBy offering both an electric rickshaw or an electric scooter in one EV, Hero Surge S32 claims to be the first class-shifting vehicleHero MotoCorp owned Surge startup has revealed their maiden S32. This is a modular vehicle, which is an amalgamation of an electric scooter and a 3W electric 3W vehicle to carry cargo or ferry passengers and support self-employed individuals. This is the first time in India a manufacturer has pursued such an idea and shows Hero’s relentless approach towards innovation.Hero Surge S32 – What is it?Ever seen Christopher Nolan’s Dark Knight and wished to own a larger vehicle that spits out a 2W for convenience? Well, that concept has become a reality now. Except for the fact that it doesn’t cater to billionaire vigilantes. But caters to real-world self-employed warriors who intend to own a fully modular vehicle.Hero Surge convertible EVThus giving them an electric scooter or an electric 3W rickshaw in the same package. This way, a self-employed individual can get two vehicles for the cost of one. Surge calls it a “class-shifting vehicle”. Where users/buyers can elevate their earning potential and their overall lifestyle.Hero Surve EV – 2 in 1 convertible EVThe idea behind Surge S32 is that users/buyers can shift between classes while owning a single vehicle. After their daily endeavours and hardships, owners/buyers can now evolve into more comfortable and presentable individuals by taking the electric scooter out. Surge claims dismantling the scooter from the 3W setup should take 3 minutes.[embedded content]This way, Surge S32 is both their daily bread asset (3W electric vehicle) and their upmarket personal transportation means (electric scooter) in one modular product. Surge S32 promises conversion between 3W vehicle and scooter can happen on any terrain and there are adaptive controls and fail-safe operations to ensure a smooth transition.Hero Surve EV – 2 in 1 convertible EVSpecs and featuresAt first glance, Surge S32 looks like any 3W electric cargo vehicle or rickshaw. There is a front passenger cabin that has its own windscreen, headlights, turn indicators, windscreen wipers and everything. There are no doors, though, and there is a possibility that Surge will offer removable and zippered soft doors for weather protection.Hero MotoCorp Surge EVOn a press of a button, the front windshield section lifts vertically and the seat console on the inside opens and reveals an electric scooter. 3W vehicle’s cabin gets a spring-loaded double-stand like mechanism that is deployed down. Electric scooter’s rear suspension now rises to its intended position and it can now be pulled out of the 3W vehicle’s cabin. Scooter gets its own LED headlights and turn indicators too. Scooter is the only one to get speedo and switchgear and connects to 3W vehicle’s components, powertrain and battery with an electric interface that should be manually operated.Hero MotoCorp Surge EVBattery and powertrain are split between 3W vehicle and 2W scooter. Power is 10 kW (13.4 bhp) for 3W and 3 kW (4 bhp) for 2W. There is an 11 kWh battery for 3W and a sizeable 3.5 kWh battery for 2W. Top speed for 3W is 50 km/h and the scooter is slightly faster at 60 km/h top speed. Load carrying capacity for 3W is 500 kg, which is decent. Surge will offer 3 variants of cargo models and 1 variant to carry passengers (e-rickshaw). More

  • 163 Shares169 Views

    in Bike

    2024 Bajaj Pulsar N160 Launch Price Rs 1.33 L – First Look Walkaround

    2024 Bajaj Pulsar N160 LaunchUSD telescopic front forks was rumoured with 2024 Bajaj Pulsar N160 update like Pulsar NS160 offers, which is not the caseBajaj is going on the offensive with multiple new product launches in 2024. We’re talking about a swarm of new and updated Pulsar bikes including “biggest ever Pulsar yet” by the end of this FY. Among expected updates is Pulsar N160 which is getting new fully digital instrumentation. Ahead of launch, units have reached dealerships and the prices are leaked to be Rs. 1,32,627 (ex-sh).2024 Bajaj Pulsar N160 Reach DealershipsAhead of launch, 2024 Bajaj Pulsar N160 units have been reaching dealerships. Sangram AutoWorld YouTube channel demonstrates the same in a detailed walkaround video. In the video, we can see all the new updates that Bajaj is giving to Pulsar N160 motorcycle. The primary of which is a new fully digital instrument cluster.Previously, all Pulsar N range motorcycles (N150, N160 and N250) used to get a semi-digital instrument cluster. Where there was a large analogue tachometer, flanked by tell-tale lights on the left and an LCD screen on the right. This digital LCD screen showed a host of information like speed, gear position indicator, time, fuel efficiency, fuel level and the likes.This whole instrument cluster was housed in a bezel-less housing that looked clean, aesthetic and premium. Now, 2024 Bajaj Pulsar N160 gets an all new instrument cluster that is fully digital LCD unit that shows more information than its predecessor. The main addition is Bluetooth connectivity along with a “Mode” button on left switchgear to cycle through various functions.[embedded content]If you are expecting the full range of Bluetooth features as a few rivals from TVS and Hero offer, you would be slightly disappointed as there is no navigation feature. Yamaha offers Bluetooth connectivity without navigation with their FZ lineup as well. That said, call alerts, notification alerts, smartphone battery level indicators and network reception indicators are welcome features.No USD forks for Pulsar N160?Bajaj had never offered Bluetooth connectivity in their motorcycles or scooters. Fast forwarding to 2024, the competition has heated up extensively with OEMs offering up to 10.2-inch touchscreens on 2W vehicles. Bajaj had to up their game and 2024 Chetak was a step in the right direction with a TFT non-touchscreen.In motorcycle realm, 2024 Pulsar N160 is the first ever Bajaj to get Bluetooth connectivity. However, there is not a single change other than instrument cluster. There are still no USD telescopic front forks on offer as Pulsar NS160 offers. Maybe it is an optional extra not seen in this particular unit. Dual-channel ABS continues to provide a safety net with disc brakes at both ends.Pulsar N160 new instrumentationPulsar N160 new instrumentationEyebrow LED DRLs, bi-LED projector headlights, LED tail lights, USB mobile charging port (Type-A), split seat setup, underbelly exhaust, muscular styling continue to be 2024 Pulsar N160’s strengths. The 164.82cc single-cylinder engine is now compliant with E20 fuel as well. Price for this 2024 Bajaj Pulsar N160 is Rs. 1,32,627 (ex-sh). Launch should happen any time. More

  • 150 Shares119 Views

    in Bike

    2024 Royal Enfield Hunter 450 On The Prowl – New Details Revealed

    2024 Royal Enfield Hunter 450 SpiedRoyal Enfield’s new 450cc platform will spawn multiple new bikes, one of which will be Hunter 450Royal Enfield has benefitted immensely by introducing new products at regular intervals. With multiple options already available in 350cc and 650cc segments, the company will now step-up focus on its new 450cc platform. After Himalayan 450, the next bike in this range is expected to be Hunter 450. Launch is expected later this year, around the festive season.Hunter 450 – What to expect?With Hunter 450, Royal Enfield will be looking to replicate the success it has achieved with Hunter 350. With its compact design, a seamless neo-retro profile and agile performance, Hunter 350 had emerged as the second best selling Royal Enfield bike. It is currently ranked third, trailing Classic 350 and new Bullet 350. Hunter 450 will have the same USPs as highlighted with the smaller sibling. Enthusiasts looking for enhanced performance will probably choose the larger capacity Hunter 450.2024 Royal Enfield Hunter 450 SpiedIn terms of design, a number of features will be borrowed from the smaller Hunter 350. A test mule spotted recently was seen with round headlamp and rear-view mirrors, a circular instrument console, single-piece seat and engine bash plate. The fuel tank design is similar to that of Hunter 350. It is completely different from the one used with Himalayan 450. Rear lighting setup has been copied entirely from Himalayan 450. The bike has the tail lamps installed within the indicators. It helps declutter the rear view and reduce weight as well to some extent. Use of LEDs improves visibility and reliability.No USD forksUnlike Royal Enfield Himalayan 450 that has USD forks at front, Hunter 450 can be seen with standard telescopic forks at front. Fork gaiters have been used for a sporty look and feel and to improve the bike’s off-roading capabilities. Just like the smaller sibling, Hunter 450 has a comfortable, upright riding stance. The bucket rider seat should ensure a seat height of around 800 mm. This will allow improved control and handling and make the bike suitable for even shorter users.2024 Royal Enfield Hunter 450 SpiedThe circular instrument console appears similar to the one used with Himalayan 450. The 4-inch TFT dash complements the bike’s profile and displays a range of information using a simple and intuitive UI/UX. Users can also access Google-powered turn-by-turn navigation.Hunter 450 specs, performanceAt rear, Hunter 450 has a monoshock suspension. Braking setup comprises disc brakes at both ends. Dual-channel ABS is expected to be offered as standard. Powering the bike will be the 452cc liquid cooled, single cylinder Sherpa engine. It generates 40.02 PS of max power and 40 Nm of peak torque. It is mated to a 6-speed gearbox. Royal Enfield could introduce some changes to the engine in line with the needs of a roadster.In the company’s lineup, Hunter 450 will be positioned below the Himalayan 450. Hunter 450 will be the most affordable bike in Royal Enfield’s 450cc portfolio. While a name hasn’t been finalized, ‘Hunter 450’ doesn’t sound bad at all.Source More

  • 138 Shares169 Views

    in Bike

    Ola Patents New Scooter For Commercial Segment – Removable Battery Possible

    New commercial e-scooter from OlaThis upcoming commercial scooter from Ola Electric might very well be the first from the company to feature swappable batteriesThe electric mobility onslaught in India is currently the heaviest in e-scooter space. This particular segment has seen unprecedented growth. Driving this growth force is electric mobility startup based out of Bengaluru, Ola Electric. The company’s upcoming product will target commercial segment that is also showing faster adoption rates.Ola Patents New Scooter For Commercial SegmentCommercial segment may be uncharted waters for Ola Electric. However, Ola has showcased impressive product planning and product packaging capabilities in the past that appealed to masses. The company must have thoroughly studied target demographic including last mile delivery, B2B customers, and delivery partners among others.Convenient large fleet management and ownership are also important for this demographic. Ola patents new scooter to target these audiences. As opposed to the flamboyant and feature-packed electric scooters for PV segment, this new scooter patented by Ola looks very bare bones.This is a small and compact electric scooter that is designed for urban use for various commercial applications. One look at this scooter and we can grasp that it is built to a cost. It has a simple tubular chassis with two down tubes coming out of its triple tree. Handlebar is pretty simple too.Ola patents new scooterIn the centre, there is a small instrument cluster that is highly likely to be an LCD unit to show speed, odo, trip, time, range, battery level and more. Front apron is very simple and plain and nothing extraordinary. There seem to be twin telescopic front forks. But there might be a single fork setup too, considering Ola’s past offerings.Specs and featuresHeadlight seems to be a sleek horizontal unit located at front apron. Usually with vehicles like these, battery is under the floorboard to maximise cargo area and increase underseat storage. But this particular scooter from Ola seems to have a battery or batteries under the seat. This leaves more space and a flatter platform on the floorboard to carry cargo.Considering Ola is taking an effort to offer batteries under the seat, these might very well be swappable batteries too. As these swappable batteries don’t get sealed connection points, they are concealed (usually situated under the seat) for weatherproofing. If true, this will be the first swappable battery tech for Ola Electric. Maybe a twin battery setup too.And it makes perfect sense for commercial segment too, minimising downtime that is usually wasted in charging. Other notable attributes on this scooter include a single-piece seat and a reasonably large luggage rack for added cargo. Wheels may be 10-inches and get high-profile tubeless tyres. Battery could be around 3 kWh in total, good for a real-world range of around 150 km. Performance will be mild, owing to its applications and a rear hub motor is possible. More

  • 188 Shares199 Views

    in Electric Cars

    Tata Sanand Plant To Start EV Production Soon – Curvv, Harrier, Safari EVs Spied Together

    Along with Harrier EV, Tata is also planning the launch of Curvv EV and Safari EVTata Passenger Electric Mobility Ltd, a unit of Tata Motors, had acquired this Sanand facility from Ford India in January 2023Tata Motors, with an extensive range of electric vehicles in its portfolio, is planning to commence production from its new Sanand plant from April 2024. This plant was acquired from Ford India early last year and it is from this manufacturing unit that Tata Motors also produces the ICE versions of Nexon.Tata to make EVs at Sanand PlantThe Sanand plant which has been acquired from Ford India at Rs 725.7 crore, has a current capacity of 3 lakh units per annum though production capacity can be extended to 4.2 lakh units. Even as the company has announced that production of the Nexon EV will soon commence, Tata Motors also plans launch of the Curvv EV and Harrier EV, all of which will be produced from the same plant.[embedded content]There is also the Safari EV in the making. All three of these new EV SUVs were spied together recently in Pune. Targeting a 5 percent growth in the passenger vehicle segment, Tata Motors Passenger Vehicles MD Shailesh Chandra revealed the timeline for launch of the Curvv EV and Harrier EV. The Curvv EV is planned for launch in Q3/Q4 of CY 2024 while later this year the company will also launch the Harrier EV.Earlier this week the company introduced Punch.ev. It comes in at a competitive pricing of Rs 10.99 lakh to Rs 14.49 lakh, ex-showroom and booking open at Rs 21,000. It competes with the Citroen eC3 and upcoming Hyundai Exter EV and Kia Clavis. Punch.ev is being offered with two battery packs. The standard model gets a 25-kWh battery pack offering a 315 km range while the Long Range (LR) variant sports a larger 35 kWh battery pack with a 421 km range.Tata Safari EV spied in PuneTata Curvv has been spied on test and prices are likely to be announced by June 2024. It enters the compact SUV space and will have both ICE and electric powertrains. The ICE variant will take on the Hyundai Creta and Kia Seltos along with the Maruti Grand Vitara while the electric version of Curvv will compete with the upcoming Creta EV, Maruti eVX and Mahindra BE.05.Tata Harrier EV spied in PuneTata Harrier EV, Safari EV Design Patent LeakedTata Harrier and Safari EVs will be the company’s flagship electric vehicle. Design leaks show off a more futuristic design with extensive exterior updates along with a host of interior features. These include a twin spoke steering wheel, panoramic sunroof, touch based HVAC system, a 360 degree camera and ADAS. Cabin comforts also extend to automatic climate controls, wireless charging, ventilated seating in the front and ambient lighting.Tata Harrier EV and Safari EV will be positioned on the company’s Gen II EV architecture, an improvement over the Gen I platform seen on the Nexon EV. It will likely draw its power via a 60 kWh to 80 kWh battery pack to offer a range of around 500 kms on full charge. Expect prices to be in the Rs 25-35 lakh range upon launch. More

  • 125 Shares189 Views

    in Motor News

    2024 Toyota Mirai FCEV Receives Updates, Including a New Badge

    Toyota has given the hydrogen-powered Mirai a few updates for 2024, most notably the new Beyond Zero badge first seen on the Prius.The Mirai had its best sales year in 2023, but Toyota still only moved 2737 examples of its fuel-cell sedan.While the Mirai handily outsells its only challenger, the Hyundai Nexo, it will soon be joined by a hydrogen version of Honda’s popular CR-V.Amidst Toyota’s broad lineup of mainstream cars and crossovers and enthusiast-focused sports cars and off-road SUVs, there’s one model that is often overlooked: the hydrogen-fuel-cell-powered Mirai. For 2024, Toyota is reminding us that it still builds this unconventional sedan, giving the Mirai a few upgrades before it prepares to face new competition in the minuscule hydrogen segment in the near future. ToyotaThe most noticeable change for 2024 is the addition of new Beyond Zero badging. First seen on the 2023 Prius, Toyota has been applying the small circular blue logo to its latest hybrid and electric vehicles, such as the Grand Highlander Hybrid Max. On the Mirai, it’s accompanied by “FCEV” lettering, for fuel-cell electric vehicle. Along with the new emblem, the Mirai is also now offered in a new color called Elemental Silver. The 2024 Mirai gains the full Toyota Safety Sense 3.0 suite, which includes driver-assistance features such as adaptive cruise control, automatic high beams, and pre-collision emergency braking with pedestrian detection.Mechanically, the Mirai is unchanged. The hydrogen fuel cell powers an electric motor that sends 182 horsepower to the rear wheels. While the trip to 60 mph takes a sluggish 9.1 seconds, the base XLE model is able to travel 402 miles on a tank of hydrogen. Upgrading to the fancier Limited trim sees the range fall to 357 miles. Toyota also provides $15,000 worth of hydrogen for those who take the fuel-cell plunge with the Mirai. The base price rises slightly to $51,215, with the Limited coming in at $68,180.ToyotaAll told, the changes are minor. But the Mirai, which entered its second generation for 2021, doesn’t have to do much to capture the few buyers interested in experimenting with hydrogen. It is one of just two fuel-cell vehicles currently on sale in the United States. Like its only challenger, the Hyundai Nexo, the Mirai is exclusively offered in California. Last year, Toyota sold 2737 Mirais, and while that number may be small, it was the sedan’s best sales year ever and represented a 31 percent increase over 2022. The Nexo, meanwhile, found just 241 homes, a 41 percent drop versus 2022.Soon the Mirai will face new competition, with Honda set to launch a hydrogen-powered version of its popular CR-V crossover this year. The vehicle will be built at the Performance Manufacturing Center in Ohio that formerly built the Acura NSX. Honda said last year that the new fuel-cell system is more durable and costs two-thirds less to build than the setup in its previous effort, the Clarity Fuel Cell. With the recent announcement that General Motors and Honda’s joint venture to build fuel-cell systems in Michigan is underway, the next hydrogen competitor to the Mirai is just around the corner. More on Hydrogen CarsCaleb 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

  • 150 Shares169 Views

    in Bike

    TVS Sales Breakup Dec 2023 – Jupiter, Raider, Apache, Ntorq, iQube, Ronin

    MS Dhoni taking delivery of his new motorcycle – TVS RoninTVS Motor reported a YoY growth in domestic sales and exports in December 2023 with most models showing off positive growthTVS Motor Company, a leading two and three wheeler manufacturer in India, has reported increased sales in December 2023. Total sales (domestic + exports) stood at 2,89,253 units in the past month up from 2,26,390 units sold in December 2022. It was however a MoM decline as the company had sold a total of 3,15,365 units (2,87,017 domestic sales and 64,348 exports) in November 2023.TVS Domestic Sales December 2023Domestic sales in December 2023, grew by 33.32 percent YoY to 2,14,988 units up from 1,61,369 units sold in December 2022. This was a volume growth of 53,619 units. TVS Jupiter and Raider topped the domestic sales list with a 46 percent combined share. Jupiter sales stood at 59,538 units in December 2023, up 49.41 percent when compared to 39,849 units sold in December 2022. The Jupiter along holds a 27.69 percent share in the company’s domestic portfolio and was the 2nd bestselling scooter in the country during the past month.TVS sales breakup Dec 2023Raider sales also saw outstanding demand in December 2023 with 39,443 units sold, up 51.34 percent YoY over 26,063 units sold in December 2022. TVS XL moped also saw its sales go up by 47.49 percent YoY from 25,961 units sold in December 2022 to 38,290 units last month. This was a volume growth of 12,329 units with a 17.81 percent share.TVS Apache at No. 4 saw its sales dip 3.04 percent YoY to 21,506 units, down from 22,181 units sold in December 2022. In December 2023, the company launched the new TVS Apache RTR 160 4V. It will rival the likes of Honda CB Hornet 2.0 and Hero Xtreme 160R in its segment. Lower down the order was the Ntorq with a 16.43 percent YoY growth. The company sold 18,851 units of the Ntorq last month, up from 16,191 units sold in December 2022. It was followed by the iQube with a marginal YoY growth of 1.45 percent to 11,232 units. Both the Ntorq and iQube also found mention on the best-selling scooter list last month.TVS exports breakup Dec 2023TVS also had the Sport (9,128 units), Radeon (7,128 units), Zest (5,275 units), Star City (2,792 units) and Ronin (1,332 units) on this list with each posting YoY growth. However, it was the TVS 310 that has seen the most percentage growth of 121.03 percent YoY to 473 units in December 2023 from 214 units sold in December 2022.TVS Exports Led by Star City 125 in December 2023TVS exports were up 14.26 percent YoY in December 2023 to 74,296 units, up from 65,021 units shipped in December 2022. It was the Star City 125 that saw the highest exports last month. There were 47,041 units exported in December 2023, up 107.78 percent from 22,640 units shipped in December 2022. The Star City 125 currently commands a 63.32 percent share on this list.TVS Apache at No. 2 had 8,024 units exported last month, up 80.97 percent over 4,434 units exported in December 2022. Jupiter sales also went up by 103.59 percent to 5,381 units in December 2023 from 2,643 units shipped in the same month last year while Raider exports grew by 112.61 percent to 5,311 units.Exports dipped for the TVS Sport by 11.56 percent YoY to 4,821 units in December 2023, down from 5,451 units shipped in December 2022 and was the only model on the list to post a YoY de-growth. The export list also included Ntorq (2,834 units, XL (558 units), Ronin (174 units), RR310 (96 units) and iQube (56 units). More

  • 163 Shares199 Views

    in Bike

    Kinetic Luna Electric Launch Price Rs 75,000 – Range 110 Kms, Full Specs

    Kinetic Luna Electric LaunchKinetic Luna Electric will be opened for pre-booked on Kinetic Green website at Rs. 500 from 26th January 2024First produced in 1972, the Kinetic Luna is now set to make a comeback in an electric avatar. Kinetic Green has announced this new electric Luna which will officially launch in India in February 2024. Ahead of that, specs and prices have been listed online. It is priced from Rs 75,000 ex-sh. Depending on available bank offers, you might be able to avail it for as low as Rs 66,000.Kinetic Luna Electric – Key Features and Advancements2024 Kinetic Luna Electric boasts several features that set it apart in the electric two-wheeler segment. The digital instrument panel provides essential information, including vehicle speed, battery status, vehicle health, and a trip meter.Kinetic Luna Electric LaunchThe inclusion of a USB charging port caters to the modern rider’s connectivity needs, while the side-stand sensor adds an extra layer of safety. With a removable pillion seat, the Luna Electric offers versatility for riders who need extra storage space for luggage, enhancing its utility for daily commuting and short trips.Performance and EfficiencyPowered by a 2 kWh battery pack, the Luna Electric claims an impressive range of 110 kilometers on a single charge. The top speed of 50 kmph aligns with urban commuting requirements, making it an ideal choice for city dwellers. The peak torque of 22 Nm ensures a smooth and efficient ride, while the 4-hour charging time caters to the practical needs of riders.Kinetic Luna Electric SpecsIn the rapidly evolving electric two-wheeler market, the 2024 Kinetic Luna Electric faces competition primarily from no one as of now. The closest rival could be the petrol TVS XL moped, which is on sale in a price range of Rs 44,999 to Rs 59,695 (ex-showroom). TVS is working electric XL, which will be a more direct rival to the Luna Electric. The Luna Electric’s competitive pricing positions it as a compelling option in the market, offering an attractive balance of features, performance, and sustainability.Kinetic Luna Electric LaunchThe launch of the 2024 Kinetic Luna Electric marks a significant milestone in Kinetic Green’s commitment to sustainable mobility. With its blend of modern features, impressive performance, and competitive pricing, the Luna Electric is poised to capture the attention of environmentally conscious commuters. As the world shifts towards cleaner and greener alternatives, the Luna Electric represents a compelling choice for those looking to embrace electric mobility without compromising on style, convenience, or efficiency.Kinetic Green E-Luna Expected DemandSpeaking about the Kinetic Green E-Luna launch, Kinetic Founder and CEO Sulajja Firodia Motwani said “We have deployed about 1,500 vehicles for last-mile delivery in a pilot stage and we think we will get very good response from this segment as well. We are also going to sign an MoU for a very large quantity very soon.” The company expects demand for around 50,000-70,000 E-Lunas from the B2C segment and another 20,000-30,000 units from the last mile delivery segment.Kinetic Luna Electric LaunchSales will be effected across the company’s 300 dealers across the country while plans are afoot to extend dealership count to 1,500 over the next 3 years. With the prospect of electric vehicles seeming particularly bright, the company also plans investment of Rs 100 crores over the coming 2 years. Kinetic Green has also commissioned a new production line for the E-Luna which will have a capacity to assemble 5 lakh units per annum. More