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    in Motor News

    2025 VW Golf GTI Will Have More Tech, New Looks, Sadly No Manual

    VW revealed a camouflaged version of the updated Golf GTI hatchback.We spotted different headlights and taillights, plus a larger screen inside.We expect this to arrive in the U.S. for the 2025 model year. Sadly, there will be no manual transmission offered, as VW confirmed 2024 would be the last year for the three-pedal GTI.An updated version of the Volkswagen Golf GTI is coming soon, as indicated by this camouflaged prototype revealed as part of CES 2024. Several changes are coming to the hot hatchback for the 2025 model year, including revised headlights and taillights and a significantly larger touchscreen infotainment system inside that offers updated software that uses a ChatGPT-powered voice assistant.One change we’re not so pleased about is the discontinuation of the six-speed manual transmission. VW already confirmed that the 2024 Golf GTI 380 special edition would commemorate the last year of production for the stick-shift versions of the Golf GTI and Golf R. That means the 2025 GTI will likely only offer the seven-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission with the turbocharged 2.0-liter inline-four; perhaps VW will offer a bit more horsepower than the current GTI’s 241-hp output to soften the blow a bit.While the eye-catching camouflage on this prototype obscures the new front and rear-end designs, we think the updated GTI will look a bit more modern than before. That carries on inside, as it features a significantly larger touchscreen; it looks like the 15.0-inch screen found in the new ID.7, which would offer many more pixels than the current GTI’s optional 10.0-inch screen. We also spotted new steering-wheel controls that do away with the frustrating touch-capacitive sliders in favor of real buttons, which is a nice upgrade.We’re expecting similar changes to come to the more powerful Golf R hot hatchback as well. These two variants are the only Golf models sold in the U.S. since VW dropped the standard Golf hatchbacks from its North American lineup when the Mk 8 model first arrived here for the 2022 model year. Look for more information to come on the 2025 Golf GTI and Golf R models within the next few months.More on the GolfDespite being raised on a steady diet of base-model Hondas and Toyotas—or perhaps because of it—Joey Capparella nonetheless cultivated an obsession for the automotive industry throughout his childhood in Nashville, Tennessee. He found a way to write about cars for the school newspaper during his college years at Rice University, which eventually led him to move to Ann Arbor, Michigan, for his first professional auto-writing gig at Automobile Magazine. He has been part of the Car and Driver team since 2016 and now lives in New York City.   More

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    in Bike

    Royal Enfield Classic 650 Spotted? Or Is This Bullet 650?

    Royal Enfield Classic 650Whether this is Royal Enfield Bullet 650 or Classic 650, it will get the same 648cc parallel-twin motor from other 650cc bikes in the company’s portfolioRoyal Enfield currently has around 15 motorcycles pending in the pipeline. These include 350cc motorcycles, 450cc motorcycles and 650cc motorcycles. Out of these, there are test mule sightings for around four motorcycles. These are Classic 350 Bobber, 450cc 390 Duke rival, Shotgun 650 and more recently, Classic 650.Royal Enfield Classic 650 spotted – Spy shots surfaceA recent report covers a new 650cc test mule. Looking at it, we can’t help but wonder whether this is the Bullet 650 that we all crave. Bullet brand recently got a slight re-design as seen with new Bullet 350. This new 650cc motorcycle is either a Classic 650 or is very well the real deal, which is a Bullet 650.We say Royal Enfield Bullet 650 is the real deal because it is an absolute timeless legend. This motorcycle has stood the test of time and still has a huge draw in Indian audience. The word Bullet is legitimately more popular than its maker Royal Enfield in India. Such is its popularity. Making a 650cc version of this design seems to be a strategic move.This motorcycle bears uncanny semblance with Bullet 350 and bears an overall similar silhouette. Making the bump to 650cc class, Royal Enfield seems to be giving it slightly upmarket elements. A retro headlight cap seen with Classic 350 and split seat design and wire-spoke wheels are notable elements.Royal Enfield Classic 650 profileAs opposed to Super Meteor 650, there are less premium bits on this test mule. For example, front suspension is RSU telescopic units like Interceptor 650 and Continental GT 650 and not USD telescopic units such as Super Meteor 650 and Shotgun 650. The latter’s blacked-out engine bay and exhaust are absent with the recently seen test mule as well.Is this Classic 650 or Bullet 650?There is a very high probability of this being a Classic 650 as well. For starters, Classic 350 is the highest-selling 350cc motorcycle in India and is slowly becoming a default for retro classic motorcycles. Bringing this vibe into 650cc portfolio will establish familiarity and might become the go-to motorcycle for existing Classic 350 owners while upgrading.Semblance with Classic 350 design is evident too. Both Classic and Bullet lines used to get a 500cc engine and is not on sale anymore. This test mule will be the logical replacement for those.Royal Enfield Classic 650 SpottedThe next highest-selling middle-weight motorcycle?If it bears either Classic 650 or Bullet 650 name, yeah. We can see this motorcycle quickly climbing up the sales charts to surpass Super Meteor 650 and even the OG 650cc Twins Interceptor 650 and Continental GT 650. The retro charm this motorcycle radiates, is unshakable and will probably invoke more nostalgia than Interceptor 650.Regardless, this motorcycle will feature the same 648cc parallel-twin engine that generates 47 bhp of power and 52 Nm of torque. A 6-speed gearbox, RSU telescopic front forks, twin shock absorbers at the rear, wire-spoke wheels, chrome ORVMs, chrome exhaust are notable highlights.Source More

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    in Bike

    Honda Vithalapur Plant Drives Expansion with 3rd Assembly Line

    Honda two wheeler’s 3rd Assembly Line at its Gujarat plantHonda Vithalapur Plant’s 3rd Assembly Line Boosts EfficiencyHonda Motorcycle & Scooter India (HMSI) propels its growth trajectory with the inauguration of the innovative 3rd Assembly Line at the Vithalapur plant in Gujarat. This state-of-the-art facility signifies a colossal leap forward. And augments annual production capacity by an impressive 6.5 lakh units.At the core of this expansion are key models such as the ever-popular Activa and Dio, alongside their 125cc variants. This strategic move at the Gujarat plant holds particular significance. Especially in the global engine production arena. This comes about through dedicated focus on the 250cc and above engine category to meet global market needs.Honda Empowers Female Workforce in Gujarat’s Manufacturing LandscapeHonda is unwaveringly committed to the development and empowerment of its female workforce. This proactive approach aligns with the company’s vision for accelerated and robust growth within the two-wheeler manufacturing sector. While also setting an exemplary standard for the industry.Sustainability takes centre stage at the Vithalapur facility. A remarkable 75 percent of the electrical power utilized is sourced from renewables, underscoring Honda’s dedication to environmentally friendly practices. The facility actively engages in rainwater harvesting. And contributes to zero liquid discharge and zero waste to landfill, solidifying its commitment to eco-conscious operations.Wheels of Change: Honda’s Visionary Road to Carbon Neutrality by 2030 in GujaratBeyond operational excellence, Honda integrates Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) initiatives seamlessly. These initiatives span healthcare, education, road safety, and gender equality, reflecting the company’s holistic commitment to societal welfare and empowerment.Looking towards the future, Honda Motorcycle & Scooter India sets a visionary goal. Achieving carbon neutrality by 2030, with a specific focus on the Gujarat plant. This commitment resonates with the global call for sustainable practices and dovetails harmoniously with manufacturing excellence. In the process, cementing the plant’s role in this transformative journey.Scooter Revolution: Powers the Scooterisation Movement from the frontThe 3rd Assembly Line at the Vithalapur plant is not merely an expansion in capacity. It marks a significant stride towards a sustainable and efficient future. Honda’s dedication to innovation and environmental consciousness positions it at the vanguard of the two-wheeler manufacturing industry.With this accelerated expansion and steadfast commitment to sustainable practices, HMSI solidifies its position as a global leader. Alongside it underscores the transformative impact of the Vithalapur facility in shaping the future of the automotive industry. The significance of this expansion extends beyond quantitative measures. And etches a qualitative shift towards a greener, more inclusive, and technologically advanced future. More

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    in Bike

    QJ Motor Slashed Price By Up To Rs. 40K – SRC 250, SRC 500, SRV 300

    QJ Motor slashed priceWith QJ Motor slashed price, SRC 250 is cheaper by Rs. 30,000 along with SRC 500 and SRV 300 both shedding up to Rs. 40,000 from the original price tagPrice revision for low-selling motorcycles seems to be a mantra that many 2W manufacturers are employing in India. We recently saw Honda use this strategy twice with CB300F and CB300R. Now, Chinese 2W Juggernaut, QJ Motor, is employing a similar strategy. The company slashed prices of select motorcycles under SRC and SRV lineup.QJ Motor Slashed Price By Up To Rs. 40KFor starters, QJ SRC 250 used to cost Rs. 2.1 lakh, SRC 500 Rs. 2.69 lakh and SRV 300 Rs. 3.49 lakh (all prices ex-sh). This is a welcome strategy as QJ Motors is a new brand for Indian market with less recall among enthusiasts, unlike QJ’s subsidiary Benelli. The price revision accounts for up to Rs. 40,000 (ex-sh).QJ Motors SRC 250SRC 250Where product positioning is concerned, SRC 250 is a retro classic motorcycle packing a twin-cylinder engine. Yes, a twin-cylinder engine. Up until now, it was priced at Rs. 2.1 lakh, which was already a steal. The new pricing is even more attractive at Rs. 1.79 lakh (ex-sh). Which is down by Rs. 31,000 (ex-sh).For around Rs. 1.8 lakh, one can’t even buy a Royal Enfield Classic 350’s base variant that only has a single-cylinder engine. SRC 250 has twice the number of engine components as that of a single-cylinder engine. This engine makes 17 bhp and 17 Nm, which are less than that of any Royal Enfield. Colours include Silver, Black and Red.QJ Motors SRC 500SRC 500Unlike SRC 250 which was a twinner, SRC 500 is a single-cylinder motorcycle that rivals the likes of Harley-Davidson X440, Royal Enfield Classic 350 and others. This 480cc single-cylinder engine packs 25.15 bhp and 36 Nm, mated to a 5-speed manual. This is purely an air-cooled engine too, unlike SRC 250 which had active air cooling with a large radiator.Where pricing is concerned, SRC 500 used to cost between Rs. 2.69 lakh and Rs. 2.79 lakh, depending upon colours opted. Now, QJ Motors has reduced prices to Rs. 2.39 lakh (ex-sh), which is down by Rs. 30,000 and Rs. 40,000 when compared to earlier prices. There doesn’t seem to be price disparity between colours anymore.QJ Motors SRV 300SRV 300This is QJ’s only V-Twin motorcycle on sale in India and is vastly similar to Keeway Benda V302C, which falls under QJ umbrella as well. SRV 300 used to cost between Rs. 3.49 lakh and Rs. 3.59 lakh (ex-sh), depending on colours. Just like SRC 500, there is no price difference with colours anymore.The new price is Rs. 3.19 lakh, which is Rs. 40,000 less than the pricier colour option of MY2023. Funny enough, Keeway Benda V302C, which is vastly the same bike, costs around 4.3 lakh (ex-sh). Extra cost for a belt-drive, negligible design changes and a slightly larger fuel tank don’t make any sense.QJ Motor SRV 300 is powered by a 296cc V-Twin motor that generates 29.88 bhp and 26 Nm, mated to a 6-speed transmission and chain drive. The weight is only 164 kg, which is commendable and SRV 300 is now the most affordable V-twin engine-equipped bike in India. Rs. 1,000 cheaper than Keeway K-Light 250V. More

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    in Electric Cars

    New Punch EV Features Detailed – Which Variants Get What?

    Tata Punch EVAs of now, Tata Motors has not revealed expected features list of Smart+ trim among new Punch EV features detailedTata Passenger Electric Mobility is expected to launch a new superstar in the form of Punch EV (sold as Punch.ev). The company’s current darling for sales charts is Tiago EV, which is India’s most affordable 5-door EV. Punch EV, however, has all the qualities to be TPEM’s new best-seller. Let’s check variant-wise features.New Punch EV Features DetailedBookings for Punch EV have commenced and a glitch in Tata’s system has revealed price quotations to booked customers too. So, Punch EV cost is likely to be well under Rs. 17 lakh (ex-sh), while price for Nexon EV’s top-spec variants go till Rs. 20 lakh (ex-sh). The company has only revealed a few key features with trim levels ahead of launch.Speaking of, Tata Punch EV will be sold in 5 trim levels – Smart, Smart+, Adventure, Empowered and Empowered+. These trims will further spawn variants with LR (Long Range) and regular along with a sunroof and 7.2 kW charger being popular variable attributes. It is to be noted that Smart and Smart+ trims are not bundled with LR models.Buyers choosing Punch EV LR model get Adventure, Empowered and Empowered+ trim levels to choose from. While regular Punch EV buyers get all five trims, or Personna, as Tata calls them. Smart and Smart+ only get Pristine White shade. From Adventure onwards, Seaweed DT, Daytona Grey DT and Fearless Red DT are added.New Punch EV features detailedEmpowered and Empowered+ get an additional Empowered Oxide DT shade. Base Smart trim gets LED headlights, DRLs, multi-mode regen, ESC and 6 airbags. Upgrading to Adventure trim adds cruise control, LED fog lights with cornering function, a 7-inch touchscreen by Harman, wired Android Auto and Apple CarPlay and an optional sunroof.Adventure LR model gets additional features like an electronic parking brake and jeweled control knob. We wish Tata had given alloy wheels with Adventure trim, but that isn’t the case.What is offered with top-spec variantsSpeaking of alloy wheels, Empowered trim offers it. These are 16 inches in size and get a diamond-cut finish. Other than that, Empowered also get a built-in air purifier, auto folding ORVM, a 7-inch digital instrument cluster, a 10.2-inch infotainment screen by Harman, SOS function and an optional sunroof.Kudos to Tata Motors for offering a sunroof as an option even with top-spec Empowered+ trim. We would encourage more automakers to follow a similar approach. Lastly, we have Empowered+ trim that adds leatherette seats, 360-degree camera, blind-spot monitoring, ventilated front seats ( a Godsend), Arcade.ev app suite, wireless phone charger and a larger 10.2-inch instrument screen.Tata has not yet revealed the features list of Smart+ trim. The launch could happen by the end of this month. Although, a definite date is not yet announced. More

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    in Electric Cars

    Hyundai To Invest Rs 6,180 Cr In Tamil Nadu – EV Battery And Car Manufacturing

    Hyundai India at Tamil Nadu Global Investors Meet 2024Hyundai commitment towards a sustainability and a green future sees the company earmark an additional Rs 6,180 crores investment in Tamil NaduTamil Nadu Global Investors Meet 2024 held on January 7 and 8, at Chennai Trade Centre has wooed investors from various segments and from across the globe. It was at this meet that Hyundai Motors, a leading automaker in India, has announced investment to the tune of Rs 6,180 crores in Tamil Nadu and an MoU to this effect was also signed between Hyundai Motor India and Guidance Tamil Nadu.Hyundai Signs MoU of Rs 6,180 Crore Investment in Tamil NaduThe MoU was signed between Mr. Unsoo Kim, MD and CEO, Hyundai Motor India Limited and Mr. V Arun Roy, IAS., Secretary to Government, Industries Department, Government of Tamil Nadu. Thiru M K Stalin, Hon’ble Chief Minister of Tamil Nadu, Thiru Piyush Goyal, Hon’ble Union Minister of Commerce and Industry, Consumer Affairs, Food and Public Distribution, and Textiles, and Dr. T R B Rajaa, Hon’ble Minister for Industries, Investment Promotion and Commerce were present at the signing.Hyundai India signs an MoU to establish a dedicated ‘Hydrogen Valley Innovation Hub,’ at IIT – Madras with an investment of Rs. 180 croreAlong with this investment and signing of MoU, Hyundai also signed another MoU with IIT Madras to set up a dedicated ‘Hydrogen Valley Innovation Hub’. The auto maker also showcased its fuel cell electric vehicles at the NEXO and ADAS Experience Zone at the show.Out of this investment of Rs 6,180 crores in Tamil Nadu, Hyundai Motors has set apart Rs 180 crores towards a Hydrogen Valley Innovation Hub along with IIT Madras. This is in addition to Rs 20,000 crore investment which will be spread over 10 years in the development of electric vehicles, setting up of charging infrastructure and generating employment and developing skill in the region.Hyundai has been specially concentrating on investments in Tamil Nadu over the past 27 years. With this new investment, the company continues to show their support towards the state, both in terms of socio economic development and self-reliance. Hyundai continues to pay special attention to project the state of Tamil Nadu in terms of the hydrogen technology ecosystem in its aim towards achieving a milestone of becoming a $1 trillion economy.Hyundai Showcase Fuel Cell Electric VehiclesHyundai Motor and Kia are set to incorporate advanced PEM technology into next-generation fuel cell systems for passenger cars. Apart from passenger vehicles, the company is also actively expanding its fuel cell business to include commercial vehicles, marine vessels, aerospace applications, power generation, etc.Hyundai recently showcased its Fuel Cell Electric Vehicles (FCEV) NEXO and Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS) Engagement Zone at Tamil Nadu Global Investors Meet 2024. NEXO is the company’s initiative towards a cleaner and greener environment with hydrogen fuel cell engine generating electricity. It combines oxygen with compressed hydrogen to emit only water. Visitors to the show were also shown Hyundai SmartSense (Level 2 ADAS) technology which has been integrated and demonstrated using an immersed experience with Gaming. More

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    in Electric Cars

    Tata Motors EV Sales Growth At 59% – Almost 70k Electric Cars Sold In 2023

    New Tata Nexon EVTata Tiago EV, launched in January 2023, has been instrumental in raising company’s EV sales substantially over the past yearTata Motors foray into the electric vehicle segment has been a game changer for the company. Its endeavour to venture into a more sustainable avenue with environmentally friendly products towards a greener and cleaner future has led the company to outstanding success in CY 2023. During the past year, the company has seen a 59 percent increase in EV sales and Tata Motors continues to add more products to their EV range with the new Tiago launched last year.What has aided the company in its growth is the fact that these electric vehicles are being offered in three body styles of hatchback (Tiago EV), sedan (Tigor EV), and SUV (Nexon EV), thus appealing to customers both in the premium and mass market segments.Tata Motors’ Electric Vehicle (EV) Sales PerformanceTalking about Tata Motors EV sales during the past calendar year, sales touched 69,153 units in CY 2023, a 59 percent YoY growth over 43,451 units sold in CY 2022. EV sales contributed to 12.55 percent of the company’s passenger vehicle sales that stood at 5,50,883 units in CY2023, relating to a growth of 8 percent over sales in CY 2022.Monthwise EV sales have seen positive results through the past year. Sales stood at 4,133 units in Jan 2023, up 39 percent over 2,982 units sold in Jan 2022. February 2023 sales escalated to 5,318 units while in March and April sales touched 6,509 units and 6,516 units respectively.Tata Motors EV sales in 2023 vs 2022Sales of EVs were the highest to date in June 2023 at 7,025 units relating to a 95 percent YoY growth while in the following months sales dipped marginally but yet posted sales growth as compared to corresponding months in CY 2022. Tata Motors’ EV sales averaged at 5,762 units in CY 2023 up from an average of 3,720 units sold in CY 2022. Even in terms of electric vehicle retail sales, Tata Motors has seen outstanding success with a 118 percent increase to 81,000 units in CY 2023.Tata Motors – EV Market LeaderTata Motors is a market leader in the EV segment in India with a 70 percent share. It is the company’s endeavour to have its EV range command a 50 percent share in its portfolio by 2030. A major portion of its sales are seen for the Tigor EV which is also offered in X-Press T fleet only EV. Tata Motors has also found more demand from rural areas and outside of the top 20 cities while preferred by first time owners and 24 percent by women buyers in the country.As on date, the company has an EV portfolio of the Tata Nexon EV, Tata Tiago EV and Tata Tigor EV while the new Punch EV is also set to roll out soon. Along with its range of electric vehicles, the company is also actively testing Harrier and Safari EVs, both of which will be flagship offerings positioned above the Nexon EV. More

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    in Electric Cars

    Gensol EV Spotted Testing For The First Time – 3W EV Will Pack ADAS, Auto Park

    Gensol EV spotted testingConsidering Gensol EV spotted testing has three wheels, it might be sold as a motor tricycle and may require just a motorcycle licensePrimarily known for its solar business, Gensol Group is now foraying into electric car business. The company aims to provide urban mobility solutions to reduce city congestion. Last month, the company teased Gensol EV online and the car is now spotted in testing — hat tip to automotive enthusiast K Pratham who spotted this test mule in Chakan, Pune.Gensol EV Spotted Testing For The First TimeThe electric car startup, Gensol Electric Vehicles PVT LTD, has set up a base in India’s biggest auto cluster, Pune. The HQ seems to be in Mundhwa, Pune and the manufacturing facility is in Chakan, boasting production capacity of 30,000 units per year. The test mule is running temporary registration provided by Chinchwad RTO and the plates read ‘on test’.Gensol aims at affordable EV category that has very few action. We’re talking about a segment that will sit below MG Comet EV in terms of pricing and above PMV. Refreshing your memory, PMV has launched a mini electric car in India for Rs. 4.79 lakh (ex-sh). It is a four-door, two-seater (back-to-back) electric car with interior parts from Honda cars.Other players are toying with launch plans in this segment too. We’re talking about Ligier Mygi, a French contender, running for this segment whose test mules have been spotted in India too. Renault is planning Kwid EV that will end up in this segment as well. So, this is a potent segment for Gensol to target.Gensol EV 3-Door TeasedBut there is one oddity with the Gensol EV which is absent in the expected rivals we just mentioned. Which is, Gensol EV is a 3W vehicle, something that even PMV is not. The 3W architecture has two wheels at front and one at the back. So, it doesn’t look like a rickshaw or a Reliant Robin (Jeremy Clarkson would approve).How the seating arrangement could be?Considering Gensold EV spotted testing is aimed at affordable urban electric mobility, we might see a small battery pack capable of 200 km claimed and 150 km of real-world range and a single motor FWD layout, driving both front wheels. Top speed is claimed to 80 km/h. Gensol EV may provide seating for four adults (three in comfort) and a decently sized boot space.Doors are limited to just two and then a tailgate. Gensol is going for a tallboy design, which might be concerning to prospective buyers. High centre of gravity and three wheels are like oil and water. Gensol is developing ADAS tech and auto parking features too, that will be offered with their maiden EV. On the inside, there are two electric windows, manual AC, Android-based touchscreen infotainment (likely aftermarket), a single-pane sunroof and more.Gensol EV DashboardThis particular test mule had basic halogen reflector-style tail lights. Looking at rear section, Gensol might be using axle braking instead of wheel braking for rear single wheel. There might be RWD setup too looking at all the camouflaged components around rear wheel. Launch might happen around 2025 and the price might be below MG Comet’s. The main question remains, though – Can we drive it with a motorcycle license? More