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    Ather 450S Prices Slashed By Rs. 20,000 – Existing Owners Share Concern

    Ather electric scootersThe decision for Ather 450S prices slashed, is just one month into Ola slashing Rs. 20K off its S1 X+ with 3 kWh battery packSince 2024 began, Ather Energy has managed to make headlines on multiple occasions. The company launched its new flagship product, 450 Apex recently with revamped performance. However, at the lower-end, Ather craves more action in terms of sales numbers. That is why we can see Ather 450S prices slashed by as much as Rs. 20,000.Ather 450S Prices Slashed By Rs. 20,000Previously, 450S cost about Rs. 1.3 lakh (ex-sh) and with the new price revision, Ather has slashed pricing by Rs. 20,000. The company didn’t quote an exact reason for this revision, but we would reckon that it is because of Ola’s extremely aggressive pricing strategy that is significantly undercutting Ather’s products. Existing owners of Ather 450S have shared their concern with recent price cut.Ather 450S existing owners not happyNot just with 450S, Ola undercuts Ather’s products across the range too. For example, Ola S1 Pro Gen 2 boasts greater acceleration, power, torque, range and features than recently launched 450 Apex and still costs significantly less. Where Ather strikes back though, is a more reassuring track record where safety and reliability are concerned.However, India is a price-sensitive market and an attractive MRP either makes or breaks the product. Sticking with Ather 450S that just got a price revision, it primarily rivals Ola S1X+. At launch Ola had priced it at Rs. 1.1 lakh (ex-sh) and in December 2023, Ola offered a flat Rs. 20,000 discount on S1 X+, taking the price to just Rs. 90K.Ather 450S Prices SlashedThe price war thus began and the prospect of an Ather 450S at Rs. 1.3 lakh (ex-sh) began to wear out thin. To keep up with rising competition, Ather has participated in this price war by slashing Rs. 20,000 off the MRP of 450S. But the Rs. 1.3 lakh quote for Ather 450X price tag seen in Ather’s tweet doesn’t reflect on the company’s website at all, which still shows Rs. 1,37,999 (ex-sh).450S more VFM than beforeWith this price revision Ather’s portfolio now starts from Rs. 1.1 lakh (ex-sh), which is a lot more gullible for mainstream electric scooter buyers in India. This should result in an increase in sales figures and Ather’s market share in competitive 2W electric mobility sector.Ather 450S is available with a single 2.9 kWh battery variant that packs 115 km of claimed range and 90 km of TrueRange. Top speed is 90 km/h and the scooter hits 40 km/h in 3.9 seconds. It packs an LCD instrument display with smartphone connectivity and navigation. Buyers can opt for Pro pack with 450S for Rs. 9,999 which unlocks more features.Ather 450S new LCD screen LayoutIn contrast, Ola S1 X+ gets a 3 kWh battery pack promising 151 km of claimed range, 90 km/h top speed and packs an LCD instrument cluster too. There are no optional packages for Ola S1 X+. The competition just intensified with Simple Dot One along with stiff competition from TVS iQube range. More

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    Hero Mavrick Global Debut On 23rd Jan 2024 – RE Classic 350 Rival

    Hero Mavrick Global DebutGlobal Debut Date for Hero Mavrick 440: Revving Up the Roads on January 23rd, 2024Hero MotoCorp is gearing up to unfurl its latest marvel, the Hero Mavrick 440. The much-anticipated mid-size motorcycle is set to hit the streets on the 23rd of January, 2024, marking a bold stride in the realm of roadsters. Hero Mavrick 440, a 440cc roadster, draws its lineage from the esteemed platform of the Harley-Davidson X440, promising an amalgamation of power and finesse.Distinctive Design LanguageBased on the Harley X440, the Mavrick 440 is poised to captivate aficionados with a subtler demeanour, boasting a distinctive panelling that sets it apart. While retaining elements of retro charm like the iconic round headlamp and rear-view mirrors, the Mavrick 440 leans toward a more conventional roadster aesthetic.Hero Mavrick Global DebutEnthusiasts can anticipate a host of expected features in the Hero Mavrick 440. A circular instrument pod, potentially integrating a 3.5-inch TFT display akin to the acclaimed Harley X440, will offer Bluetooth connectivity, granting access to phone and media functions. Moreover, the bike is projected to embrace app-based connectivity features, enhancing the overall riding experience.Crafted for comfort, the Mavrick 440 boasts an upright riding stance, coupled with a user-friendly seat height of approximately 800 mm, catering to a wide spectrum of riders. In terms of specifications and performance, Hero might employ a modified version of the chassis utilized in the Harley X440, potentially exploring cost-effective adaptations to the equipment roster to ensure an accessible price point.Hero Mavrick 440 name trademarkedEngine SpecsVariants may include a base model with pared-down features, such as conventional telescopic forks and reasonably priced tyre options, maintaining affordability without compromising quality. Hero Mavrick 440 will house a robust 440cc, single-cylinder, air-oil cooled engine generating 27 bhp of peak power and 38 Nm of maximum torque, harmonizing with a 6-speed gearbox. While aiming for efficiency, the engine’s performance might undergo slight adjustments to resonate uniquely with the Mavrick 440, accompanied by a distinctive and resonant exhaust note.Price and PositioningLeveraging its manufacturing prowess, Hero MotoCorp aims to launch the Mavrick 440 competitively, potentially hovering around the Rs 2 lakh mark, positioning itself as an enticing prospect within the sub-500cc motorcycle segment. For context, the Harley X440 commences at Rs 2.39 lakh, while the Royal Enfield Classic 350 is available at Rs 2.28 lakh.Following the grand debut of the Mavrick 440, Hero MotoCorp is poised to continue its impressive streak by unveiling a series of motorcycles sharing the same robust engine and platform. Among the much-anticipated releases, enthusiasts can look forward to the arrival of the Xpulse 440 and the Xtreme 440. Building upon the success and technological prowess showcased in the Mavrick 440, these forthcoming models are projected to exemplify a harmonious blend of performance, innovation, and versatility.The Xpulse 440 is anticipated to elevate the adventure motorcycle segment, catering to riders seeking unparalleled ruggedness and exploration capabilities. Meanwhile, the Xtreme 440 is expected to exude a captivating amalgamation of power and style, targeting enthusiasts in the sporty segment. Hero MotoCorp’s strategic move to expand its lineup underscores a commitment to offering diverse options to riders, solidifying its position as an industry trailblazer in delivering cutting-edge two-wheeled marvels. More

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    in Electric Cars

    New Mahindra Electric SUVs Spied In Ladakh – BE.05 and XUV.e9 Coupe

    New Mahindra Electric SUVs spied in Ladakh. Credit – Bunny PuniaMahindra Testing Upcoming Electric Vehicle Lineup: XUV.e9 and BE.05 in LadakhMahindra is gearing up to revolutionize the electric vehicle (EV) market with the launch of its newest electric offerings. Recent sightings of test models in Ladakh give us a closer look at two highly anticipated EVs: the XUV.e9 and the BE.05, both poised to redefine the standards of electric mobility. Spy shots are credited to Bunny Punia.Mahindra XUV.e9: Redefining Electric SUVsThe XUV.e9 emerges as the coupe version of the acclaimed XUV700. Distinguishing itself from its donor, the XUV.e9 showcases an assertive design language, marked by a pronounced bonnet featuring muscular creases and power bulges. Notably, a full-width LED light bar, more sophisticated than previous iterations, adorns the front cavity below the bonnet, enhancing its visual appeal.Mahindra XUV.e9 is electric coupe version of XUV700While the prototype retains makeshift headlights, indicative of the forthcoming production-spec units, other striking features include a seamless grille owing to its electric powertrain and substantial body claddings enveloping the mid-size SUV. Notably, the XUV.e9 opts for a strict 5-seater configuration and promises a premium powertrain experience.Performance-wise, expectations soar with an anticipated 80 kWh battery pack delivering a substantial 500 km range on a single charge. The dual-motor setup aims to generate 300 bhp, enabling an all-wheel-drive (AWD) system and a top speed of 200 km/h. Industry enthusiasts speculate on a potential launch scheduled beyond 2025.Mahindra XUV.e9 is electric coupe version of XUV700Mahindra BE.05: Embracing Futuristic DesignSimultaneously, the BE.05 captivates attention with its futuristic design language. During its UK showcase, Mahindra hinted at the production model’s faithfulness to the concept’s striking attributes, a promise upheld in recent spy shots.Mahindra BE.05 is an all new electric vehicle based on Mahindra BE platformThe front fascia boasts colossal LED Daytime Running Lights (DRLs), an unprecedented design aspect that occupies a significant vertical space, setting it apart from competitors. The rear fascinates with wild and avant-garde tail light LED signatures, signaling a departure from conventional designs. The sporty roof spoiler above a small rear windshield amplifies its aerodynamic appeal.From the side, the angular profile and expansive windshield exude a futuristic silhouette. The design team, led by Pratap Bose, has intricately infused cuts and creases into the BE.05’s sheet metal, crafting an attention-grabbing exterior.This audacious design direction marks Mahindra’s departure from conventional design norms, echoing their commitment to pushing boundaries in the EV landscape. However, while pushing innovation, the brand remains cautious not to veer into convoluted designs, a balance they aim to strike with the BE.05.Source More

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    Triumph Daytona 660 Revealed – More Oomph Than Trident, Tiger Sport

    Triumph Daytona 660 RevealedUpon launch, Triumph Daytona 660 will take on rivals such as Kawasaki Ninja 650, Honda CBR650R and upcoming Yamaha R7Triumph has started the new year with Daytona 660. The fully-faired bike was spotted multiple times on road tests at overseas locations. Now it has been officially revealed.Triumph Daytona 660 RevealedTriumph Daytona 660 will be looking to bring back the excitement and allure, associated with the earlier Daytona model 675R. It was a powerful bike, producing 128 bhp of max power. However, it was discontinued in 2017 due to low demand and stricter emission norms.Triumph Daytona 660Daytona 660 comes with a dominating street presence with split headlamps and an aggressive front fascia. The bike has layered fairing, which is aesthetically pleasing and also supports functional needs such as handling and engine cooling. There are a few semblances with Honda CBR650R, especially with side profile.Some of the key highlights include a large windscreen, front-cowl-mounted sporty rear-view mirrors, sculpted fuel tank, sporty graphics and decals, split seat design and underbelly exhaust. Some exciting colour options will be available. Users can expect a comfortable riding stance, suitable for urban streets.Triumph Daytona 660Triumph Daytona 660 specs, performanceTriumph Daytona 660 is built on the same platform as Trident 660 and Tiger Sport 660. Powering the bike will be a 660cc, liquid-cooled, inline 3-cylinder engine that generates 95 bhp of max power and very nice 69 Nm of peak torque. It is mated to a 6-speed gearbox. Performance metrics are the highest when compared to other 660cc bikes from Triumph.Daytona 660 is primed to deliver the most exhilarating performance. This is in line with Daytona’s sporty character. Hi-tech equipment onboard Daytona 660 may include traction control, riding modes and a bi-directional quick shifter. As compared to Tiger Sport 660 which has riding modes of Road and Rain, Daytona 660 could get an additional race-focused riding mode.Much of the hardware is borrowed from other 660c bikes from Triumph. Suspension system boasts Showa 41 mm USD forks at front and Showa mono-shock with preload adjustment at rear. Braking setup onboard Trident 660 comprises twin 310 mm floating discs at front and a single 220 mm disc at rear. Dual-channel ABS will be standard.Triumph Daytona 660Triumph Daytona 660 priceTriumph Daytona 660 has a colour TFT multifunction instrument console. A range of features is present such as a smartphone connectivity, navigation and maybe tyre pressure monitoring system as an accessory. 17-inch wheels are standard and wrapped with 120/70 front and 180/55 rear tyres.As far as pricing is concerned, Triumph Daytona 660 maybe priced around Rs. 9 lakh to Rs. 9.5 lakh (ex-sh). For reference, Trident 660 is available at a starting price of Rs 8.12 lakh. In comparison, Tiger Sport 660 is priced at Rs 9.34 lakh. Daytona 660 prices will be closer to that of Tiger Sport 660. With its premium pricing, Daytona 660 will cater to a niche customer base. More

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    in Motor News

    Sony and Honda’s 2026 Afeela EV Sedan Wears Updated Styling at CES

    Sony and Honda’s joint venture, Afeela, has revealed an updated version of its electric sedan concept at CES 2024.The revised Afeela features production-ready cues like traditional sideview mirrors instead of cameras and more substantial headlights.Afeela also released specifications, with the sedan packing a 241-hp electric motor on each axle and DC charging at speeds up to 150 kW.At CES 2023 last year, Sony and Honda surprised the automotive world with a new EV brand called Afeela, the product of a joint venture called Sony Honda Mobility that will unleash an electric sedan on American roads in 2026. Now Afeela is showing an updated version of its prototype at CES 2024, with the four-door EV looking far more production ready, and has released a slew of new powertrain information.Sony Honda MobilityListed at 193.5 inches long, the latest Afeela prototype is about two inches shy of a 2024 Honda Accord, but with a nearly seven-inch-longer wheelbase. Compared with the original prototype shown last year, there are some noticeable changes. The thin cameras sprouting from the A-pillar have been replaced by traditional side-view mirrors, and the headlights and grille trim piece are also thicker than before. The charging port door on the front fender has grown in size, and the indentation along the rocker panels and the rear bumper have also been restyled.The cabin appears largely the same as the original prototype, but the center console is a bit larger and the steering wheel and rearview mirror have been slightly redesigned. There are also two wireless phone chargers and what appears to be an inward-facing camera perched atop the full-width screen. Sony Honda MobilityAfeela has also published drivetrain specifications for the sedan, which were absent from the reveal last year. The Afeela will be all-wheel drive, with permanent-magnet synchronous motors at the front and rear. Each is rated at 241 horsepower, but Afeela doesn’t provide a combined horsepower rating, and calculating total output typically isn’t as simple as adding the horsepower from each motor together. Range? Not YetThe lithium-ion battery has a listed capacity of 91.0 kWh, but Afeela has yet to publish range figures. Afeela says the sedan is capable of DC charging at up to 150 kW, with AC charging maxing out at 11 kW. The air suspension is supported by unequal-length control arms up front and a multi-link setup at the rear. The front tires measure 245/40 and the rear rubber is listed at 275/35, with the Afeela riding on 21-inch wheels all around. Sony Honda MobilityOrders for the Afeela sedan, which has yet to be given a specific model name, will open in 2025, with U.S. sales set to begin in 2026. Little else is known about the company’s plans, but we expect the Afeela to start around $45,000. The sedan is also set to be added to the Gran Turismo 7 video game later this year, allowing anyone to drive it virtually two years before the Afeela hits the road. More from CES 2024Caleb 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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    Yamaha Launched New Colours With FZ, FZ-X And R15 – Bolder Than Before

    Yamaha Launched New ColoursNone of these new colourways from Yamaha on FZ, FZ-X and R15 vehicles bear any mechanical changes than what was on beforeIn India, Yamaha is expanding its portfolio to include new motorcycles. We saw this with recent launch of YZF-R3 and MT-03. These are the first multi-cylinder motorcycles in Yamaha’s Indian lineup after a long time. Now, the company is offering new colours with its premium motorcycles to keep the lineup fresh for CY 2024.Yamaha Launched New ColoursTeam Blue had recently teased new colours on social media handles. Initial speculations pointed towards new colours for Yamaha’s scooters as the company often sits outside of top ten best-selling scooters list. Come 9th January, the new colours are actually for the brand’s FZ street bikes, FX-X neo-retro and R15 faired motorcycle.New added colours are very diverse with each motorcycle. The company intends to expand sales envelope with new colours and strengthen its position against rivals like Hero, Bajaj and TVS. Yamaha has launched three new colours with FZ-S FI Version 4.0 Deluxe and YZF-R15, two new colours with FZ-X and one new colour with FZ-S FI Version 3.0 and FZ FI.New colours with FZ V42024 FZ Version 4.0 DLX, 2024 FZ-S Version 3.0 and 2024 FZ FIWhenever Yamaha launches a new vehicle, it likes to keep the old model around to have a wider portfolio. That’s exactly the case with FZ lineup in India. With 2024 FZ-S FI Version 3.0, Yamaha has added Matte Grey priced at Rs. 1,21,700 (ex-sh) and with 2024 FZ-S FI, Yamaha has introduced Matte Cyan priced at Rs. 1,16,500 (ex-sh).New colours with FZ V3There are no new colours added with FZ-S FI Version 4.0. However, FZ-S FI Version 4.0 DLX gets three new colours in the form of Racing Blue, Matte Black and Majesty Red. All of these get the same price, which is Rs. 1,29,700 (ex-sh).FZ-X Matte Titan2024 FZ-XColour additions with FZ range might seem slightly confusing with the naming scheme for many. That is not the case with FZ-X, though. With FZ-X, Yamaha has added Matte Titan colour shade priced at Rs. 1,37,200 (ex-sh). That’s not all. There is a new Chrome colour that is uber cool and complements FZ-X’s overall neo-retro theme.Upcoming FZ-X ChromeThe asking price for FZ-X Chrome is slightly higher owing to meticulous labour and time needed for a Chrome finish. It costs Rs. 1,37,200 (ex-sh) and it will be available on sale with February 2024, while Matte Titan can be had now.Yamaha R15 new colours2024 YZF-R15R15 is Yamaha’s prized possession and was the company’s flagship for a very long time. There is an M version of R15 too, that packs additional kit like gold-finished USD front telescopic forks, a quick-shifter, a fancier TFT instrument screen and more. That model doesn’t get any new colours as part of this update.It is the standard R15 that gets three new colours in the form of Vivid Magenta Metallic and Racing Blue priced at Rs. 1,87,000 (ex-sh) along with Metallic Red priced at Rs. 1,82,000 (ex-sh). Vivid Magenta Metallic is vivid, like the name suggests with strong pink accents on grey base coat. Customer reception for this colour would be interesting. More

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    Hero Mavrick 440 Spotted Testing – Mules Reveal, Fascia, Components

    Hero Mavrick 440 Spotted TestingWhen compared to Harley-Davidson X440, Hero Mavrick 440 spotted testing, dons a different design language with less premium componentryThe strategic partnership between Hero MotoCorp and Harley-Davidson has spawned one motorcycle as of now. This is Harley-Davidson X440, which is manufactured by Hero MotoCorp. Now, Hero is launching their version of this motorcycle with slightly less premium componentry and a different design ethos.Hero Mavrick 440 Spotted TestingThe Indian 2W juggernaut is stepping up its game in premium motorcycle segment by launching its biggest-ever and most expensive product. The name Mavrick 440 is highly likely, as indicated by the recent teasers where company is revealing one letter at a time. Positioned as company’s flagship offering, it will be launched on 22nd January.Media drives for the same could be between 15th and 16th February. There have been multiple test mule sightings before around Jaipur. None of them showed the bike’s front fascia and visual distinctions from its alliance cousin Harley-Davidson X440. The recent spy shots surfacing internet show just that.For starters, Hero MotoCorp is incorporating a different design language than what Harley-Davidson is offering. This is evident, especially at the front where there is an all-new headlight, handlebars, and the likes. Hero Mavrick 440 spotted testing also shows stylish bar-end mirrors that are likely to be part of accessories.X440 test mules with accessoriesWhen compared to 43mm Showa USD telescopic front forks on Harley-Davidson X440, Hero Mavrick 440 gets RSU telescopic setup. This will establish a hierarchy in premiumness between Mavrick and X440. Another major difference is a new fuel tank that has tank shrouds to establish a slightly sportier and street-bike-like appeal.Brand new headlight with ‘H’ insigniaBoth X440 and Mavrick 440 get a round LED headlight setup, but Hero gives a different LED signature on the inside. This signature mimics an ‘H’, comparable to what Hero offered with 2023 Xpulse 200 and Xpulse 200 Pro. Actual headlight bulbs get a reflector setup, unlike projectors on Xpulse.Where powertrain is concerned, Hero Mavrick 440 spotted, shows the same 440cc single-cylinder engine as X440. To establish a hierarchy between the two, Hero’s offering could sport lesser performance metrics. Also, the round exhaust end-can of X440 is replaced with a different unit on Hero’s Mavrick.New Harley Davidson X440Mated to a 6-speed gearbox, X440 offers 27 bhp of peak power and 38 Nm of peak torque. X440 boasts an all-metal build too, something that Hero might change with Mavrick 440 with more plastic and fibre components to save cost and weight. Speaking of cost, X440 retails between Rs. 2,39,500 and Rs. 2,79,500 (ex-sh). Hero’s pricing would be significantly lower at around Rs. 2 lakh.Where features are concerned, we can expect the same TFT instrument screen from Karizma XMR along with Bluetooth connectivity, smartphone integration with a dedicated app for Android and Apple devices, turn-by-turn navigation and more. Primary rivals include Royal Enfield Classic 350 and other retro classics from Jawa, Yezdi and Honda.Source More

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    RE Himalayan 450 Raid Will Offer More Off-road-worthy Kit – Launch In 2027

    RE Himalayan 450 Raid RenderAs Himalayan 450 Raid will focus on off-road tracks, it will get a unique set of features and equipmentWhile the all-new Himalayan 450 comes across as a capable ADV bike, there seems to be more wiggle room in terms of extreme off-roading capabilities. As a solution, Royal Enfield is developing an off-road-focused version of the Himalayan 450. To be called the RE Himalayan 450 Raid, the bike will cater to aspiring enthusiasts as well as professionals.RE Himalayan 450 Raid – New equipmentOff-road tracks can vary significantly, which may require the user to adjust the suspension. The changes may also be needed based on the user’s weight and riding preferences. Himalayan 450 Raid will be suitably placed, as it will have fully adjustable front and rear suspension. The existing model has 43MM USD front forks and a monoshock rear suspension.Both front and rear wheels have 200 mm of travel. With the adjustable suspension, users should also be able to get a higher ground clearance. The current model already offers a sizable 230 mm of ground clearance. In comparison, KTM 390 Adventure has 200 mm of ground clearance.Some off-road environments may necessitate a higher ground clearance, which is where the Himalayan 450 Raid can deliver better results. Royal Enfield may also be looking to reduce the kerb weight of Himalayan 450 Raid. It can be achieved with the use of rally-ready components. The existing Himalayan 450 has a kerb weight of 196 kg.Himalayan RaidHimalayan 450 Raid will be getting most of the off-road focused equipment as standard. It includes the engine and rally sump guards and knuckle guards. As of now, Hero MotoCorp is acing the extreme off-road-worthy equipment territory with Pro variant for Xpulse 200. Royal Enfield will soon follow Hero’s footsteps.Himalayan 450 Raid performanceAnother key upgrade will be tubeless spoke wheels. These will be offered as standard with Himalayan 450 Raid. Royal Enfield already uses the tubeless spoke wheels for the standard model, but only for export markets. It is currently not offered in India, as it needs approval from the Bureau of Indian Standards. This process may take some time. Tubeless spoke wheels are preferred, as they offer the best of both worlds.Powering the bike will be the 452cc, single-cylinder, liquid-cooled DOHC engine that generates 40.02 PS of max power and 40 Nm of peak torque. It is mated to a 6-speed gearbox. Himalayan 450 Raid will be getting a new exhaust, which can help boost performance with better airflow. A lightweight profile can also help increase power to weight ratio.Himalayan Raid RenderHimalayan 450 Raid launch in 2027It is believed that Himalayan 450 Raid will be launched in 2026. However, recent reports indicate that the launch has been delayed by a few months. As a result, there’s a high probability that Himalayan 450 Raid will be launched in early 2027.With the updated equipment and features, Himalayan 450 Raid will be priced higher in comparison to the standard model. The existing model is available in the price range of Rs 2.85 lakh to Rs 2.98 lakh. Himalayan 450 Raid could be offered at a price of around Rs 3.5 lakh. This will closely match the pricing of next-gen KTM 390 Adventure.Source More