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    in Electric Cars

    Rolls Royce Spectre Electric India Launch Price Rs 7.5 Crore – 530 Km Range

    Rolls Royce Spectre ElectricRolls-Royce Motor Cars has launched the highly anticipated Spectre, the world’s first ultra-luxury electric super coupé, in North IndiaToday marks a historic moment for Rolls-Royce as it takes a significant step towards an all-electric future in India. Spectre is set to redefine the luxury automotive landscape with its contemporary design, bespoke interior, and groundbreaking engineering.Rolls Royce Spectre in IndiaThe debut of Spectre comes amidst a global surge in demand for luxury electric vehicles. Rolls-Royce has reported strong interest and demand for Spectre worldwide, with an order bank extending through 2024. The Indian market, in particular, is poised for growth, with ultra-high-net-worth individuals (UHNWIs) expected to rise significantly by 58.4% in the next five years.Rolls Royce Spectre ElectricYadur Kapur, Dealer Principal, Rolls-Royce Motor Cars New Delhi, expressed excitement about Spectre’s arrival, stating, “We are delighted to celebrate the debut of Rolls-Royce Spectre in North India, the most anticipated model in the history of the Rolls-Royce marque. With its highly contemporary design and delightful Bespoke interior, combined with true engineering substance and innovation, there can be no doubt that Spectre is a true Rolls-Royce.”Rolls-Royce Motor Cars had previously announced its commitment to electric technology, revealing Spectre as the first all-electric model with customer deliveries starting in the fourth quarter of 2023. By the end of 2030, Rolls-Royce aims to have its entire portfolio fully electric. Spectre has undergone a rigorous testing program, covering an impressive 2.5 million kilometers, before making its global debut last October in West Sussex, England.Rolls Royce Spectre ElectricSpectre’s North India debut provides clients and media with a glimpse into Rolls-Royce’s electric future, heralding the beginning of an exciting new chapter for the luxury automaker. The car promises a four-year warranty with unlimited mileage, a 10-year battery warranty, and comprehensive service coverage, ensuring a seamless ownership experience for customers.Rolls Royce Spectre ElectricThe pricing for Spectre in India starts from INR 7.5 Crore (ex-showroom), reflecting the bespoke nature of Rolls-Royce cars, handcrafted to individual customer specifications. The model offers a range of ownership benefits, including 24/7 roadside assistance and a regional flying doctor on standby for extreme cases.Rolls Royce Spectre RangeRolls-Royce Spectre boasts impressive technical specifications, featuring a power output of 430kW (584 hp) and a torque of 900Nm. The electric motors, lithium-ion battery, and charging capabilities contribute to a range of 530km (329 miles) according to WLTP standards.Rolls Royce Spectre ElectricAs the luxury automotive industry pivots towards sustainable solutions, Rolls-Royce’s commitment to an all-electric future and the debut of Spectre in India signal a monumental shift in the landscape of luxury electric mobility. The marque’s rich history in electric technologies, dating back to co-founder Charles Rolls’ prophetic vision in 1900, underscores the brand’s dedication to innovation and progress.The arrival of Rolls-Royce Spectre in North India is not just a new car launch; it’s a glimpse into the future of automotive luxury and sustainability. The marque’s transition to a fully electric portfolio by 2030 is a testament to its commitment to delivering unparalleled luxury experiences while embracing a cleaner, greener future. More

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    in Bike

    Honda NX500 Launched In India – Best Multi-Cylinder ADV For Rs. 5,90,000?

    Honda NX500 LaunchedThe direct rivals of Honda NX500 launched, are Benelli 502 and 502X along with Kawasaki Versys 650 and to some extent Triumph Tiger Sport 660ADV segment is currently on the rise with more additions than before. However, within 300cc to 500cc segment, there are little to no multi-cylinder ADVs for sale. Honda is fixing that by launching NX500 in India, sold exclusively through their premium BigWing dealerships. Honda NX500 launched, costs Rs. 5.9 lakh (ex-sh). There are three colours – Grand Prix Red, Matte Gunpowder Black Metallic and Pearl Horizon White.Honda NX500 Launched In IndiaIt has to be noted that NX500 is CB500X’s replacement, considering brand positioning and pricing. At the end of its life-cycle, CB500X was priced at Rs. 5.8 lakh (ex-sh), down from its initial pricing of Rs. 6.87 lakh (ex-sh). We have to also note the fact that CB500X was a locally assembled CKD model and was initially priced close to Rs. 7 lakh (ex-sh).In contrast, Honda is importing NX500 as a CBU model, which costs less than CB500X CKD model, despite packing significantly more premium features and hardware. This is interesting to see, which shows that Honda is rethinking its pricing strategies for Indian market. The Rs. 5.9 lakh (ex-sh) pricing for NX500 is reasonably justified, being an import and packing all the extra features over CB500X.For the money, Honda is offering a crossover vehicle. The design theme for Honda NX500 launched, is called “Daily Crossover”, where the bike doesn’t look out of place, whether it is in the city, winding road, highway or gravel trail. A do-it-all proposition, if we may. The bike gets a compact adventure styling to have an imposing, yet nimble silhouette.Honda NX500 ConnectivityAll-LED headlights, tail lights and turn indicators look premium and perfectly accentuate bike’s overall styling. The fairing has a dual-tone effect with black elements to cut down on visual bulk. There is a non-offensive rear subframe with a single-piece seat. Seating posture is upright and there is a decently tall windscreen too.Specs and performanceHonda is even offering a 5-inch TFT display with Bluetooth connectivity along with IOS and Android compatibility. Switchgear is extensive with buttons to control instrument cluster. Honda RoadSync enables navigation, call and music controls from a connected phone. There is an emergency stop signal too.Componentry includes 19-inch front and 17-inch rear aluminium wheels wrapped with 110-section front and 160-section rear tyres, Showa 41mm SFF-BP USD telescopic front forks, Pro-Link mono-shock rear suspension, dual 296mm front disc and single 240mm rear disc, dual channel ABS and has a 17.5L fuel tank. All this is mounted on a steel diamond frame.Honda NX500 FasciaHonda NX500 launched, gets a 471cc parallel twin-cylinder engine with DOHC setup and liquid cooling that generates 47 bhp at 8,600 RPM and 43 Nm torque at 6,500 RPM. This engine is mated to a 6-speed gearbox and gets a slip and assist clutch along with traction control. The Rs. 5.9 lakh (ex-sh) is introductory and can change at Honda’s discretion. More

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    Court Orders Rs 10 Lakh Compensation To Owner Of Electric Scooter

    Electric scooter on fireViral videos of electric scooters catching fire have dented consumer confidence, even though EV sales continue to scale new heightsIn a significant win for consumer rights, a Consumer Commission in Telangana has directed Benling India and its dealer to pay Rs 10 lakh compensation to the complainant. The case involves a Benling electric scooter that had caught fire in February 2023. It was a result of the battery exploding. Benling India is a subsidiary of China-based Benling. There are currently three EV products on offer – Aura, Falcon and Kriti.Benling India electric scooter fire caseAccording to the complainants, the Benling electric scooter was purchased in April 2021. In February 2023, the scooter’s battery exploded, resulting in fire. The scooter was mostly destroyed as a result. The complainants asked Benling India and the dealer to replace the electric scooter. Or, if that was not possible, the complainants be paid the original price of the scooter, along with 18% interest per annum.The complainants alleged that despite filing their complaint, there was no response from Benling India or the dealer. A decision was made to send a legal notice. The complainants sought compensation worth Rs 13.5 lakh, along with litigation expenses of Rs 40,000. The Consumer Commission had also sent notices to Benling India and the dealer. However, they did not respond and failed to appear before the commission.Consumer Commission orders Rs 10 lakh compensationAt the District Consumer Disputes Redressal Commission at Medak, a coram of President Gajjala Venkateswarlu and member Makyam Vijay Kumar noted that it is the responsibility of the manufacturer to identify the cause of the battery explosion. But in this case, the commission noted that the manufacturer did not show any proper concern. The commission also noted that the manufacturer had failed to respond despite multiple complaints filed by the complainants.The commission felt that such lack of concern can affect the safety of other consumers who may be using the same product. A number of factors could have led to the battery explosion. It is the OEM’s responsibility to identify the cause of the incident and take measures to prevent a recurrence. OEMs can also issue a recall if they feel that other scooters have the same issue.The commission said that Benling India failed to respond and did not appear during the proceedings of the case. The commission pointed out to the statutory liability pertaining to defective products that was applicable on manufacturers under the Consumer Protection Act. This can hold manufacturers liable for any defective product. The consumer is not even required to prove actual negligence.Further, the commission noted that a consumer can claim remedy under Sections 84 to 86 of the Act. This can be done when a product is unreasonably dangerous and can potentially affect the consumer’s safety. Based on such factors, the commission said that the complainants were entitled to receive not just the cost of the product, but also the compensation for product liability.The commission ordered Benling India and the dealer to jointly pay the cost of the vehicle, while factoring in 9.5% depreciation per annum. Or, an option to replace the scooter was provided. Towards damages, the commission ordered a compensation of Rs 10 lakh. And payment of Rs 10,000 for litigation expenses.While the judgement is a win for the complainants, it could be challenged in a higher consumer forum or other court of law. We hope that the matter is amicably resolved, as court cases can stretch for years and lead to significant financial strain and emotional torment.Source More

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    in Electric Cars

    Mahindra XUV.e9 Production Design Patented – Launch Likely In 2025

    Mahindra XUV.e9 Production DesignIn addition to its coupe profile, XUV.e9 is distinguishable with its prominent bonnet, C-clamp shaped DRLs and aerodynamic body panellingEnthusiasts are eagerly waiting for Mahindra’s next-gen electric SUVs that include the BE and XUV.e range. First to be launched will be XUV.e8, which is essentially the electric version of XUV700. Mahindra is also working on XUV.e9, which is a coupe version of XUV.e8. Ahead of its planned launch in 2025, Mahindra has patented the design of XUV.e9.Mahindra XUV.e9 design patent filedAs evident in the design patent, Mahindra XUV.e9 will be one of the sportiest models in the company’s next-gen EV portfolio. Test mules spotted earlier tell the same story. The entire BE and XUV.e range will be based on the new INGLO platform. Even though Mahindra’s next-gen electric SUVs follow an entirely new design language, they continue to have a dominating road presence. This aspect gets more highlighted with XUV.e8 and XUV.e9.Mahindra XUV.e9 Production DesignXUV.e9 gets the C-clamp shaped LED DRLs that are seamlessly connected with a full-width LED element. This signature feature can be seen with other upcoming Mahindra electric SUVs as well. However, each model has a slightly distinctive shape and positioning for the DRLs. While it is not revealed in the design patent, it is likely that a similar lighting approach will be used at the rear as well.Another interesting aspect of XUV.e9 is the chiselled, diamond-like surfacing of the body panels. This styling approach can be seen across the bonnet, fenders and door panels. It ensures a more sophisticated and futuristic look and feel for the SUV. This unique surfacing is also likely to reduce air resistance. Combined with the coupe profile, XUV.e9 could have achieved a low drag coefficient. It will offer multiple benefits such as faster acceleration, higher top speed and longer range.[embedded content]The idea that XUV.e9 will pack in a comprehensive range of advanced tech features is evident with the sleek ORVMs with integrated turn signals. These are likely to be camera-based units and connected to the SUV’s ADAS system. XUV.e9 will have flush door handles and sporty alloy wheels with enhanced aerodynamics.Mahindra XUV.e9 features, performanceAn earlier test mule of XUV.e9 had provided a glimpse of the interiors. One of the key highlights is triple 12.3-inch screens that collectively cover almost the entire width of the dash. While being functionally relevant, the 3-screen format also removes the design inconsistencies and clutter that seem to be there with a dual-screen setup covering just half the dash.XUV.e9 was also spotted with a new two-spoke steering wheel. It looks quite similar to the steering wheel used with new Tata SUVs. It remains to be seen if Mahindra too is working on an illuminated logo on the steering wheel. In terms of performance, XUV.e9 could be equipped with an 80-kWh battery pack. Power output could be 300 bhp, delivered via a dual-motor setup with AWD. Top speed of XUV.e9 could be 200 km/h, whereas range is expected around 500 km. More

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    in Motor News

    2025 Wagoneer S, Jeep’s First U.S. EV, Goes on Sale This Fall

    Jeep has confirmed the arrival of its first EV for the United States, with the 2025 Wagoneer S set to hit the road in the fall of 2024.A teaser image shows an identical front end to the original Wagoneer S concept shown in 2022.Jeep also touted the same 600-hp output and claimed 3.5-second 60-mph time as it first did in 2022.Jeep has finally confirmed the arrival of its first electric vehicle, the Wagoneer S, which will go on sale in the fall of this year. Jeep first showed images of a concept version of the Wagoneer S in 2022, along with a boxy EV SUV called the Recon. At the time, Jeep had referred to the “Wagoneer S” moniker as a codename, but it now appears that Jeep is committed to that title for its first EV.JeepThe original Wagoneer S concept from 2022.Although its name is shared with the gargantuan gas-powered Wagoneer and Grand Wagoneer, the Wagoneer S is smaller, with Jeep referring to it as a mid-size model. The latest image Jeep shared of the front end shrouded in darkness appears to show all of the same design cues as the original concept images, including the illuminated grille.Jeep also reiterated the same specifications originally announced, with the Wagoneer S targeting a 60-mph time of 3.5 seconds thanks to a 600-horsepower powertrain. Interestingly, the 400-mile range that Jeep originally claimed in 2022 was absent from the most recent announcement.More Jeep NewsSales will start in the U.S. in the fall of 2024, and official information should come soon. Jeep is referring to the Wagoneer S as its first global EV, suggesting that the Recon, which was also due in 2024, may be delayed. Jeep already sells the tiny Avenger with an electric powertrain in Europe. Stellantis, Jeep’s parent company, has been slow in transitioning to electric vehicles, and none of the automaker’s brands currently sells an EV in the United States. That is set to change in 2024 with the arrival of the Ram 1500 REV and ProMaster EV. Fiat will also add an electric 500 hatchback to its U.S. fleet, while Dodge recently teased the upcoming electric Charger. 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 Bike

    Top 10 Two Wheelers Dec 2023 – Splendor, Activa, Pulsar, Shine, Jupiter, Passion

    Bajaj Pulsar NSSplendor maintains its lead as the No 1 two wheeler of India followed by the likes of Activa, Pulsar, etcAs we bid farewell to 2023, the Indian two-wheeler market witnessed a dynamic close with impressive sales figures for December. This article explores the top 10 two-wheelers that dominated the market during this period, shedding light on their sales performance, year-on-year growth, and the overall market share.Top 10 Two Wheelers Dec 2023 vs Dec 2022Leading the pack is the iconic Hero Splendor, with a remarkable 2,27,748 units sold in December 2023. Despite a marginal increase of 1.02% from the previous year, the Splendor maintains its stronghold as the go-to choice for Indian riders, commanding a substantial 26.80% market share. Honda Activa secures the second position with 1,44,335 units sold, demonstrating an impressive 49.65% year-on-year growth.Top 10 Two Wheelers Dec 2023 vs Dec 2022 – YoY comparisonBajaj Pulsar claims the third spot with 1,06,734 units sold. Boasting a growth rate of 42.75% compared to the previous year, the Pulsar remains a favorite in the motorcycle segment, capturing a 12.56% market share. Despite a slight dip of 2.98% in sales, the Honda Shine retains its position in the top four with 85,144 units sold. With a 10.02% market share, the Shine continues to be a significant player in the commuter motorcycle segment.Hero HF Deluxe, with 61,056 units sold, experienced a year-on-year decline of 43.34%. However, it remains a prominent choice in the market, securing a 7.19% share. In the scooter segment, the TVS Jupiter exhibited stellar performance with 59,538 units sold, showcasing a substantial 49.41% growth. With a 7.01% market share, the Jupiter continues to be a preferred choice among scooter enthusiasts.Top 10 Two Wheelers Dec 2023 vs Nov 2023 – MoM comparisonSuzuki Access, with 53,898 units sold, witnessed an impressive 78.30% growth, reflecting its popularity among consumers. The scooter commands a 6.34% market share, highlighting its strong market presence. The TVS Raider, a motorcycle known for its style and performance, secured 39,443 unit sales, marking a 51.34% growth. With a 4.64% market share, the Raider is establishing itself as a formidable contender in the motorcycle segment.The TVS XL, a moped with a utilitarian design, recorded 38,290 unit sales, achieving a 47.49% growth. With a 4.51% market share, the TVS XL continues to cater to a unique segment of consumers. Closing the top 10 is the Hero Passion, experiencing an astonishing year-on-year growth of 1373.47%. With 33,551 units sold, the Passion captures a 3.95% market share, showcasing its resurgence in the market.Month on Month ComparisonDecember 2023 witnessed intriguing developments in the Indian two-wheeler market, showcasing notable shifts in consumer preferences and market dynamics. This article delves into the month-on-month comparison of the top 10 two-wheelers, analyzing sales figures, growth rates, and changes in market shares from November to December 2023.Hero Splendor experienced a 9.19% decline in sales from November to December 2023, with 2,27,748 units sold. Honda Activa, securing the second spot, faced a notable 26.38% decrease in sales, with 1,44,335 units sold in December. Bajaj Pulsar witnessed an 18.15% decline in sales, selling 1,06,734 units in December.Honda Shine experienced a significant 45.40% drop in sales, with 85,144 units sold in December. Hero HF Deluxe faced the steepest decline in sales, with a 47.56% drop and 61,056 units sold. TVS Jupiter experienced an 18.28% decline in sales, with 59,538 units sold in December.Suzuki Access demonstrated resilience, registering a modest 2.64% growth with 53,898 units sold. TVS Raider faced a marginal decline of 0.97% in sales, with 39,443 units sold. TVS XL experienced an 11.94% decline in sales, with 38,290 units sold. The TVS XL maintains a 3.98% market share, catering to a unique segment of consumers. Hero Passion experienced a 3.45% decline in sales, with 33,551 units sold in the previous month. More

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    in Bike

    Hero Mavrick Design Compared – Instrument Screen Revealed With Details

    Hero Mavrick DesignWith Hero Mavrick design silhouette teased, we can see a few design inspirations with MV Augusta Brutale 800, Indian FTR 1200 and Ducati Diavel V4Today, India’s biggest 2W manufacturer, Tata Motors, is launching its biggest and most premium product. Marketed and sold under Hero brand, of course. We are talking about Hero Mavrick 440, which will launch on 23rd January 2023. Ahead of launch, Hero is dropping little snippets of what to expect.Hero Mavrick Design ComparedThe recent social media post revealed Hero Mavrick 440’s silhouette in a translucent and shadowy nature. We can see bike’s overall strong character lines and intended beef. But the more we looked at it, the more familiar we felt. On further inspection, we drew semblances that Hero Mavrick 440 is following from various premium bikes.Hero Mavrick DesignDesigning an automobile is like creating music. No matter how authentic the intention is, there will always be similarities with past or present. There are only so many ways to style a motorcycle, anyway. But we found Mavrick 440 resembling MV Augusta Brutale 800, Ducati Diavel V4 and Indian FTR 1200.Maverick 440 matches some of its design aspects with these motorcycles. For example, if we take a look at Mavrick 440 and MV Augusta Brutale 800, we can see similarly designed headlights and handlebars and the way front suspension forks emerge out of their triple-tree. Mavrick gets a slightly different instrument cluster, though, and lacks a windscreen.Hero Mavrick DesignThen we look at Mavrick’s fuel tank and it reminds us of Ducati Diavel V4. Not just that, Mavrick seems to get similarly designed muscular tank shrouds and side body panels as Diavel too. Looking at the rear subframe, the way Mavrick’s exhaust system is routed and exhaust end-can, reminds us of Indian FTR 1200.Hero Mavrick DesignThe new instrument cluster functions revealedIn another teaser, Hero MotoCorp has revealed instrument cluster layout and what general features to expect with it. For starters, this is not a TFT screen, unlike Harley-Davidson X440’s unit. This is to establish a hierarchy in premiumness as both Mavrick 440 and X440 are likey to be sold in the same Hero Premia dealerships.Where X440’s unit is TFT and vertically laid out, Hero is implementing a horizontal LCD screen. Left part of this screen falls in a circular housing, while right half extends outwards. Where functionalities are concerned, we can see a tachometer going till 8,000 RPM, speedometer, gear position indicator, tank range or DTE, odometer, fuel gauge, 2 trip meters and tell-tale lights.[embedded content]The right part of this screen which extends outwards, shows various information when the unit is connected to a smartphone via Bluetooth. This shows call alerts, notifications, Bluetooth symbol, battery level, time, estimated distance, and estimated time for arrival along with turn-by-turn navigation in the middle. Two physical buttons on the right side look large enough to be operated with gloves.The bike will share most of its components including engine with Harley-Davidson X440. Hero Mavrick 440 will launch on 23rd January and will be company’s flagship. A price point of around Rs. 2 lakh (ex-sh) is expected. More

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    in Electric Cars

    Baojun Yep Plus (Comet Based SUV) Debuts – New 4m Electric SUV

    Baojun Yep PlusCapable of carrying more passengers, the Baojun Yep Plus 5-door SUV will cater to a broader segment of users in comparison to the 3-door modelAvailable for sale in its home market China, the Baojun Yep 3-door electric SUV was launched in 2023. Now, 5 door version of the same has made global debut. Called Baojun Yep Plus, its launch in China is expected soon, most likely in Q1, CY2024.Baojun Yep Plus – Styling and featuresJust like the 3-door Yep, the 5-door Baojun Yep Plus has a boxy profile. Yep Plus will be longer than the 3-door Yep that measures 3.4 meters in length. However, Yep Plus will still be a sub-compact SUV, being about 4 meters in length. Wheelbase is 2560mm (450mm longer than the 3 door version), width is 1760mm (75mm wider than 3-door version), and ht of 1726mm.Baojun Yep PlusExteriors of Yep Plus won’t have any major deviations in comparison to the 3-door Yep. This is evident with the images of bumper and tail lights that are largely the same as seen with 3-door Yep. Front fascia of Yep Plus is also same as that of 3-door Yep. Only some minor touch-ups are seen.However, with the longer size and additional doors, the side body panelling has changed. As compared to 3-door Yep that has the ORVMs mounted on the A pillar, the 5-door Yep Plus carries the ORVMs on the front door. Alloy wheels appear to be new for the 5-door Yep Plus.Baojun Yep PlusBaojun Yep Plus – Specs, performanceWith larger dimensions and more passengers to carry, 5-door Baojun Yep Plus will need a larger battery than the 28.1 kWh unit in use with the 3-door Yep. Range will be around the same as that of 3-door Yep that offers 303 km, as per CLTC standard. Performance details of 5-door Yep Plus are yet to be revealed. For reference, the 3-door Yep churns out 68 hp of max power and 140 Nm of peak torque. Its top speed is capped at 100 km/h.Baojun Yep Plus India launch prospectsIt is likely that an MG-badged 5-door Yep Plus electric SUV will be launched in India. Only minor styling changes are expected. MG’s new EV will be underpinned by Comet’s Global Small Electric Vehicle (GSEV) platform.Just like the Comet, MG Motor will aim to launch the new EV at a competitive price point. It will be made possible with a high level of localization. Even the battery pack will be sourced locally. For Comet, the battery pack is sourced from Tata Autocomp. The new EV will be positioned above the Comet EV. It is expected to be launched in the price range of Rs 12 lakh to Rs 15 lakh. More