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    in Bike

    Spied – Harley Davidson X210 Based On Karizma Or X440 With New Accessories?

    Harley-Davidson X440 New Accessories SpottedAs of writing this article, Harley-Davidson offers 4 accessories including a leg guard, engine guard, centre stand and front windscreenWith the launch of X440, the partnership between Hero MotoCorp and Harley-Davidson has officially spawned a product, with more to follow in the future. The company has already trademarked Hurikan 440 and Nightster 440 names in India which could be an ADV or a street bike. Ahead of that, Harley-Davidson seems to be testing more accessories for X440.Harley-Davidson X440 New AccessoriesHero MotoCorp and Harley-Davidson has mentioned that Indian customers have showed excellent responses to their maiden product. X440 is on offer in three trim levels – Denim, Vivid and S. Prices range between Rs. 2,39,500 and Rs. 2,79,500 (ex-sh) and deliveries have already commenced.On top of the four official accessories that are currently on sale, Harley-Davidson seems to be developing a new range of accessories that a recent test mule showed. These accessories were not showcased at launch or during deliveries commencing period. Multiple dealerships had informed buyers that there were new accessories incoming.The primary among the incoming accessories was rear pillion backrest. The spy shots taken near Hero MotoCorp tech centre, Jaipur, credited to automotive enthusiast XX, show a Harley-Davidson X440 test mule donning a rear pillion backrest. At first glance, this motorcycle looks like a mini bike owing to the large frame of test rider. But it is the X440 and there is no mini bike from Harley-Davidson.Harley-Davidson X440 test muleOther accessories that are expected to arrive, as per Harley-Davidson dealers (unofficial) is bar-end mirrors. However, the test mule spy shots we received didn’t have bar-end mirrors.Accessories on offer right nowCurrently, Harley-Davidson offers six elements as part of PDI kit for free and is offering four official accessories designed and developed for X440. The free elements as part of PDI kit include ORVMs, handlebar weights, saree guard, number plates and two exhaust heat shields, one on the end can and one on catalytic converter.As per paid accessories, Harley-Davidson offers a leg guard and engine bash plate both priced at around Rs. 800. Then there is a centre stand and a softer touring seat both of which are priced around Rs. 1,400. Lastly, there is a small windshield that lends a Cafe Racer look that costs approximately Rs. 400. All prices mentioned may include additional taxes and labour charges.Apart from these, Harley-Davidson also sell branded riding gears for both male and female riders of all sizes. Based on customer demand, there will be further additions to its accessories list for X440 to unlock more potential.Is this a new motorcycle based on Karizma XMR 210?Harley-Davidson has been compartmentalizing in key global markets and is spawning low-cost budget motorcycles to reach a wider range of audience. The partnership with Hero MotoCorp might turn fruitful for Harley-Davidson and the next motorcycle may have an even smaller capacity than current X440.This could be based on the recently launched Karizma’s 210cc platform. This very platform is spawning a version of Xpulse and Xtreme as well. There is a possibility that the recently spotted test mule will be based on 210cc engine as well. More

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    in Electric Cars

    Suniel Shetty Makes a Green Move – Embraces MG Comet EV as His First Electric Vehicle

    Suniel Shetty buys MG Comet EVMG Comet EV has been making headlines as India’s most affordable electric car since its launch in May 2023Bollywood actor Suniel Shetty recently made waves on social media with an electrifying announcement – the purchase of his first electric vehicle, MG Comet EV. Sharing his enthusiasm, Shetty posted a picture alongside the sleek Comet EV, captioned with, “My first EV The MG COMET … love it !!” Offering a range of features that blend style, sustainability, and innovation, this vehicle has captured the attention of not just automotive enthusiasts but also prominent figures like Suniel Shetty.MG Comet EV: Redefining Affordable Electric CarsWith a starting price ranging from Rs 7.98 lakh to Rs 10.63 lakh (ex-showroom), MG Comet EV is not only cost-effective but also packs a punch in terms of specifications and warranties. Boasting an impressive 8-year or 1,20,000 km battery warranty, it aims to instill confidence in its users regarding the longevity and performance of its power source.Suniel Shetty buys MG Comet EVOne of the standout aspects of Comet EV is its extensive customization options, providing over 80 choices for extended vehicle warranty and service packages, beginning at just Rs. 5,000. Additionally, MG offers an Assured Buy Back Program, ensuring customers a 60% buyback of the original ex-showroom value after 3 years, making future upgrades more feasible.Safety and Technological BrillianceSafety remains a priority with Comet EV, equipped with a high-strength vehicle body consisting of 17 hot stamping panels for structural safety. The array of safety features includes Dual Front Airbags, ABS +EBD, Rear Parking Camera & Sensor, and ISOFIX Child Seat, promising a secure driving experience.From a technological standpoint, Comet EV doesn’t disappoint. The i-SMART system boasts over 55 Connected Car Features and 100+ Voice Commands, complemented by a Floating Twin Display with a 10.25” head unit and digital cluster. The intelligent tech dashboard and smart key add sophistication to its futuristic design.Sustainability and PersonalizationFurthermore, MG’s focus on sustainability extends to offering an encouraging charging cost of Rs 519 per 1,000 km, aligning with the growing need for eco-friendly commuting options.Adding a touch of personalization, MG presents special editions like the Gamer edition and the LIT packs, catering to diverse personalities and interests, particularly targeting the Gen Z demographic. With over 250 combinations of stickers and graphics, Comet EV aims to resonate with the next generation of urban commuters, be it gaming enthusiasts or fashionistas.Suniel Shetty’s Eco-Conscious CommitmentSuniel Shetty’s embrace of MG Comet EV not only highlights his commitment to sustainability but also amplifies the message of embracing eco-conscious choices in the automotive landscape. With its blend of affordability, advanced features, and sustainability initiatives, the Comet EV stands poised to make a significant impact on India’s electric vehicle market. More

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    in Bike

    Motorcycle Sales 300cc to 500cc Nov 2023 – Bullet, KTM 390, Harley X440, Triumph 400, Jawa, Yezdi

    Harley-Davidson X440Motorcycle Sales in India’s 300-500cc Category Witness Robust Growth in November 2023In the vibrant landscape of India’s motorcycle market, the 300cc to 500cc segment has witnessed a substantial surge in sales during November 2023, showcasing a remarkable growth trajectory compared to the same period last year. The total sales in this particular segment soared to an impressive 84,794 units in November 2023. This figure signifies a notable upswing of 17.90% from the 71,920 units sold during the corresponding month in 2022.Motorcycle Sales 300cc to 500cc Nov 2023 – Royal Enfield DominanceRoyal Enfield continued its reign with multiple models securing prominent positions in the sales charts. Royal Enfield Classic 350 emerged as the frontrunner, registering a substantial sales figure of 30,264 units, marking a robust 13.34% growth compared to November 2022. Bullet 350 also showcased an outstanding performance, recording a staggering 40.94% increase with sales reaching 17,450 units.Motorcycle Sales 300cc to 500cc Nov 2023 vs Nov 2022 – YoY comparisonHowever, it wasn’t all smooth sailing for the Royal Enfield lineup. Royal Enfield Hunter 350 experienced a slight downturn, dropping by 9.06% with 14,176 units sold in November 2023 compared to 15,588 units in the same month last year. Similarly, the Royal Enfield Himalayan witnessed a dip of 14.47%, clocking in at 1,814 units.Other manufacturers also made significant strides in this competitive segment. Honda’s CB 350 marked an impressive 21.36% increase in sales, totalling 2,466 units, while KTM’s 390 showcased an astounding growth rate of 120.00% with 1,001 units sold in November 2023 compared to 455 units in November 2022. Furthermore, a recent entrant in this segment, Triumph 400 registered 2,661 units in sales. Jawa Yezdi witnessed a decrease of 15.05%, amounting to 3,166 units sold in November 2023, while the Bajaj Dominar 400 experienced a slight decline of 6.16%, with 381 units sold.Motorcycle Sales 300cc to 500cc Nov 2023 vs Oct 2023 – MoM comparisonMonth on Month comparisonRoyal Enfield experienced mixed results. While Bullet 350 saw a commendable upsurge of 22.19% from October, reaching 17,450 units, Classic 350 encountered a slight downturn, recording a 5.12% decrease with 30,264 units sold in November. Several models faced challenges in November compared to the previous month. Hunter 350 and Meteor 350 observed declines of 20.05% and 20.61%, respectively. Additionally, Himalayan saw a substantial decrease of 38.38%, totalling 1,814 units.Among other manufacturers, Jawa Yezdi witnessed a notable increase of 17.74%, reaching 3,166 units sold in November, contrasting its October performance. Conversely, models like KTM 390 and TVS Apache 310 experienced declines of 36.32% and 33.94%, respectively.This month-on-month comparison serves as a crucial indicator for manufacturers and industry analysts, signaling the need for adaptive strategies to navigate the dynamic landscape of India’s mid-sized motorcycle market. The evolving market trends emphasize the importance of agility and innovation to stay competitive and meet evolving consumer demands.As the year approaches its end, these fluctuations set the stage for a compelling end-of-year scenario, prompting manufacturers to reassess strategies and potentially introduce new tactics to secure their positions in this fiercely competitive segment. More

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    in Bike

    Aprilia RS 457 Naked Version Spotted – Duke 390, MT03 Rival

    Aprilia RS 457 Naked Version SpottedSpotted with multiple improvised equipment, Aprilia’s new naked bike is still several months away from reaching production stageAprilia recently launched the RS 457 at India Bike Week at a starting price of Rs 4.10 lakh. Even though many international markets are yet to get the RS 457, a new naked Aprilia bike has been spotted overseas on road tests. From the images, it appears to be the naked version of the RS 457.Aprilia 457 naked bike detailsFrom the round headlamp, it is clear that the naked Aprilia 457 will have a neo-retro profile. But much of the skin is missing, making it difficult to carry out a detailed analysis. Equipment such as the front USD forks appear to be borrowed from RS 457.Aprilia RS 457 Naked Version SpottedHowever, the naked model has the USD forks in golden finish in comparison to black coloured units used with RS 457. The cast aluminium alloy wheels and the 110/70-17 front & 150/60-17 rear tyres are the same as RS 457.Same is true for the braking setup that has 320 mm and 220 mm discs at front and rear. Then, there’s the 457cc, in-line two-cylinder, liquid-cooled engine. It generates 47.6 hp of max power and 43.5 Nm of peak torque. It is mated to a 6-speed gearbox and comes with ride-by-wire tech.Aprilia RS 457 Naked Version SpottedDifferent chassis and swingarmTalking about some of the unique aspects of RS 457’s naked sibling, the bike uses a steel frame. In comparison, the RS 457 has a dual beam aluminium frame. The relatively simple tubular steel frame will be adequate for the naked version. It remains to be seen if the bike’s weight is increased with the use of a steel frame. But the naked version won’t have the fairing, which will help reduce weight. For reference, RS 457 has a wet weight of 175 kg.Aprilia RS 457 Naked Version SpottedAt the rear, the naked bike has a different swingarm in comparison to RS 457. The change has been necessitated, as the rear suspension is mounted on the right side. It is not centrally placed, as is the case with RS 457. Essentially, utilizing a decentralized spring strut instead of the conventional central spring strut.The naked version of Aprilia RS 457 will have a comfortable riding stance. The test mule reveals that the optimal positioning of the foot pegs is currently being evaluated. It is evident from the perforated plates being used for mounting the foot pegs. This allows easy adjustment of the foot pegs, as needed. There is various other makeshift / WIP equipment being used such as the fuel tank and exhaust. The front section is also WIP, evident with the exposed wires, nuts & bolts and mounting brackets.Aprilia RS 457 Naked Version SpottedAprilia naked 457 launch and pricingIn its current format, the naked Aprilia 457 will take several months to reach near-production level. In 2024, Aprilia is likely to focus exclusively on the RS 457. In that case, the naked version will only be launched in 2025. Pricing will be approximately the same as that of RS 457.Source More

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    in Bike

    TVS Sales Breakup November 2023 – Domestic And Exports, Scooters, Bikes

    TVS Apache RTR 310Every single vehicle on the TVS sales breakup November 2023 charts showed positive growth where domestic market performance is concernedThe leading Indian 2W and 3W manufacturer, TVS Motor, has been fortifying its grounds in the market. After posting the highest-ever sales of around 3.45 lakh units in October 2023 around the festive season, TVS has sold 2,87,017 units in India with 19.7% YoY growth and shipped 64,348 units abroad with an 8.07% YoY decline.TVS Sales Breakup November 2023 – Domestic salesWhen compared to 1,91,730 units sold in November 2022, TVS gained 95,287 units in volume in domestic market. In India, TVS’ highest-seller was Jupiter scooter range with 72,859 units sold last month and 25.38% of total company’s sales. When compared to 47,422 units sold in November 2022, Jupiter saw 53.64% YoY growth along with 25,437 units gained in volume.XL and Apache range took 2nd and 3rd positions with 43,482 and 41,025 units sold, securing 15.15% and 14.29% market shares respectively. Where XL saw 26.16% YoY growth with 9,017 units gained in volume, Apache registered a higher growth margin of 51.26% YoY with 13,903 units gained in volume.Raider 125 and Ntorq 125 sold 39,829 and 30,396 units with 13.88% and 10.59% of TVS’ total sales respectively. Raider grew sales numbers by 47.53% YoY, while Ntorq’s numbers grew by 78.77% YoY. Volume gain stood at 12,832 and 13,393 units for Raider and Ntorq respectively. In 6th position, we have TVS Sport with 17,157 units sold and 50.26% YoY growth.TVS Sales Breakup November 2023 – DomesticIn 7th and 8th positions, we have iQube and Radeon with 16,702 and 10,720 units sold and registered a healthy 66.09% and 26.83% YoY growth respectively. Zest and Star City sold 7,922 and 4,125 units with 150.93% and 55.95% YoY growth respectively. TVS’ premium products Ronin and RR 310 sold 2,107 and 693 units respectively.Exports witnessed YoY sales declineWhere exports are concerned, Star City 125 was the best-seller abroad with 37,814 units sold as opposed to 28,259 units shipped last year. Star City alone accounted for 58.76% of TVS’ total exports. Star City registered 33.81% YoY growth with 9,555 units volume growth YoY. In 2nd and 3rd positions, we have Apache and TVS Sport with 11.86% and 9.71% of TVS’ total exports respectively.Where Apache registered 4.49% YoY growth with 328 units volume increment, Sport saw 49% YoY growth and 2,055 units volume increment. Highest-seller in India, Jupiter saw 4th place in exports with 4,374 units shipped. Jupiter registered an impressive 914.85% YoY growth as opposed to just 431 units shipped last year.TVS Sales Breakup November 2023 – ExportsTVS shipped 4,195 and 3,416 units and Raider and Ntorq with 100.53% and 27.75% YoY growth respectively. The company’s multi-genre motorcycle, Ronin, shipped 436 units. The company shipped exactly 80 units of both Radeon and iQube in November 2023. XL and RR 310 saw 36 and 34 buyers abroad, respectively. In total, TVS’ total exports stood at 64,348 units and as opposed to 69,996 units shipped in November 2022, TVS saw an 8.07% YoY decline, losing 5,648 units in volume. More

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    in Motor News

    Aston Martin Valhalla Shown Testing in All Its 998-HP Hybrid Glory

    Aston Martin has revealed a new series of images showing the upcoming Valhalla hypercar testing at the Silverstone Circuit. The Valhalla sources 998 horsepower from a twin-turbocharged V-8 and a plug-in-hybrid system.Aston Martin will build 999 examples of the Valhalla and it is on pace to enter production in 2024. If you’re a bit confused by all the various hypercar projects coming out of Aston Martin lately, we sympathize. There are only two of them, but they both feature names inspired by Norse mythology, so let us clear things up. There’s the Adrian Newey brainchild called the Valkryie, which was originally called the AM-RB 001. It produces an immense 1139 horsepower from its hybrid V-12 powertrain. Then there’s the upcoming Valhalla you see here, which started life named the AM-RB 003.Aston MartinThink of the Valkryie as Aston Martin’s ultimate vision for what a hypercar can be, and the Valhalla as an (only slightly) more accessible track weapon. The Valhalla has been more or less shrouded in mist until now, though the company just released a new set of images showing the car testing at Silverstone. The images come as Aston Martin begins a more aggressive phase of real-world testing for the upcoming hypercar.The Mercedes-AMG–sourced twin-turbocharged 4.0-liter V-8 feeds power to the rear wheels through an eight-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission. It pairs with a set of three electric motors, including one in the transmission to bring the Valhalla’s combined output to 998 horsepower. Aston MartinAston MartinMore on Aston Martin HypercarsJust like the Valkyrie before it, the Valhalla will be built in limited figures. Aston Martin kept the Valkyrie extremely exclusive, offering only 150 build slots globally. The Valhalla will be more available to the bourgeoisie—well, kinda. There will still only be 999 of them, and pricing is expected to start in the $800,000 range. According to Aston Martin, the Valhalla is still on track to enter production in 2024. Jack Fitzgerald’s love for cars stems from his as yet unshakable addiction to Formula 1. After a brief stint as a detailer for a local dealership group in college, he knew he needed a more permanent way to drive all the new cars he couldn’t afford and decided to pursue a career in auto writing. By hounding his college professors at the University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee, he was able to travel Wisconsin seeking out stories in the auto world before landing his dream job at Car and Driver. His new goal is to delay the inevitable demise of his 2010 Volkswagen Golf. More

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    in Bike

    Top 150cc To 200cc Motorcycle Sales November 2023 – Pulsar, Apache, FZ, R15

    Image – The Bikers DiaryOf all the contenders in the top 150cc to 200cc motorcycles sales charts for November 2023, Honda Unicorn was the only one with decline in salesIn the month November 2023, the motorcycles sales falling between 150cc to 200cc accounted for 1,66,803 units. This was a 47.12% YoY growth as opposed to 1,13,380 units sold in November 2022. This 47.12% YoY growth accounted for a 53,423 unit volume growth. When compared to 1,80,417 units sold in October 2023, there was a noticeable MoM decline.Top 150cc To 200cc Motorcycle Sales November 2023Topping the sales charts within 150cc to 200cc motorcycle segment, we have Bajaj’s ever-popular Pulsar lineup with 47,320 units sold last month. Pulsars hold a 28.37% market share within this displacement space and registered 74.66% YoY growth when compared to 27,092 units sold a year ago. Volume gain for Pulsars was 20,228 units YoY.TVS Apache stood at 2nd place with 41,025 units and captivated 24.59% market share. TVS does put up quite a fight against Bajaj with Apache series that registered 51.26% YoY growth as opposed to 27,122 units sold last year. Volume growth was respectable 13,903 units. In 3rd place, we have Honda Unicorn with 20,146 units sold.When compared to the likes of Pulsars and Apaches, Unicorn comes off as unappealing and less exciting. Unicorn saw 29.88% YoY decline losing 8,583 units in volume YoY. It is the only one on this list to show declined sales. Yamaha FZ took 4th place with 16,233 units. Yamaha doubled its sales with 103.22% YoY growth and gained 8,245 units in volume YoY.Top 150cc to 200cc motorcycle sales November 2023Despite the cost, Yamaha R15 is a popular offering in India with 11,270 units sold last month. R15 has an impressive 6.76% market share and saw sales increase by 51.74% YoY. It’s naked sibling MT-15 registered 9,140 units with 44.28% YoY growth. Honda X-Blade’s replacement, SP 160, has proved to be a people pleaser with 7,310 takers last month.Honda CB200X saw unprecedented growthAnything is better than 0 units of X-Blade, but 7,310 units is impressive. Hornet 2.0 is a more premium 180cc offering that saw 3,214 takers last month. Sales almost doubled YoY at 94.20% YoY growth accounting for 1,559 units of volume growth. KTM’s 200 range is company’s highest-seller in domestic market and registered 2,777 units with 21.11% YoY growth.Hero’s Xtreme range have seen decent success after introducing 4V head to both. Sales doubled YoY from 1,196 to 2,655 units with 121.99% YoY growth. Suzuki Gixxer range sold 1,648 units with 153.93% YoY growth. The update to Gixxers earlier this year should have allowed this.Hero’s Xpulse 200 ADV tripled its numbers with 1,453 units sold and 149.66% YoY growth. Bajaj’s Avenger 160 sold 1,369 units with 38.84% YoY growth and 383 units volume growth. At 14th place, we have Honda CB200X that saw an unprecedented 1233.33% YoY growth.The sales numbers stood at 1,240 units as opposed to just 93 units sold a year ago. Lastly, we have Kawasaki W175 with just 3 units sold. The recent price revisions should ensure a better sales prospective in December 2023. More

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    in Electric Cars

    Tata Electric Car Showrooms Inaugurated In Sector 14 And Sohna Road, Gurugram

    Tata Electric Car ShowroomsAs opposed to regular dealerships, Tata Electric car showrooms will feature personalized services with stress on sustainability, community and technologyTata Passenger Electric Mobility (TPEM), a subsidiary of Tata Motors has inaugurated two new Tata.ev dealerships fortifying its new brand identity. The primary objective behind this step was to provide a tailor-made experience to their electric car buyers that differs significantly from their ICE vehicle buyers.Tata Electric Car Showrooms InauguratedTPEM has chosen prominent auto hubs of Sector 14 and Sohna Road in Gurugram. These are to lay emphasis on evolving expectations of electric car buyers in India. These new EV-specific dealerships bearing Tata.ev brand identity, promise to deliver a seamless amalgamation of personalized services, advanced technology and sustainable practises.These Tata.ev dealerships will be open to public from January 7th, 2024 onwards. The company is stressing on ‘Move with Meaning’ philosophy with these EV-specific dealerships and revolve around the core values of sustainability, community and technology. More Tata.ev showrooms will spring up in prominent cities in the future, in the next 18 months.Tata Motors currently has a 71% market share in India’s electric car sales and has crossed an astounding 1 lakh sales mark as well. The primary contributors to this massive success are Tiago EV and Nexon EV along with Tigor EV. Punch EV, Curvy EV, Sierra EV, Harrier EV and Safari EV are in the pipeline too.Tata Electric Car Showrooms fascadeTata.ev embracing sustainability, community and technologyAs per TPEM, the Tata.ev showrooms are designed and constructed with sustainability in mind. In this sense, all major materials are recyclable or recycled. Locally sourced materials were used in the construction too, negating long-distance transportation. Even the day-to-day operations will stress sustainability.The company is keen on building a community of Tata electric car owners through these EV-specific dealerships. Elevating customer experience to include meaningful interactions with fellow Tata.ev owners and glancing the events on EVOLVE community calender. There will be digitalization too, with multiple screens for personalised welcomes for EV buyers and airing testimonials from existing owners.Words from the manufacturerCommenting at the inauguration of the new showrooms, Shailesh Chandra, MD, Tata Motors Passenger Vehicles Ltd., and Tata Passenger Electric Mobility, said, “With insights gathered from over 1 Lakh Tata EV customers, we understand that the EV consumers seek a different kind of customer experience. They are sensitive to how the planet is evolving, very conscious about the cost of driving, and desire cutting-edge technology.Tata Electric Car Showroom interiorsThis is in line with the new brand identity’s core values – sustainability, community, and technology. The new flagship showrooms are the first physical manifestations of this brand philosophy and we have mapped the customer journey accordingly. We want to empower our customers so our plans include the creation of a harmonious community space to facilitate customer gatherings/services, sustainability-focused workshops, and events for customers. These showrooms are not just about retailing EVs but they become TATA.ev community centres in Gurugram.According to Vivek Srivatsa, Head, Marketing, Sales and Service Strategy, Tata Passenger Electric Mobility Ltd. “Every aspect of the in-store experience has been reimagined at TATA.ev stores. Digital, physical, and human elements come together in harmony to deliver a uniquely memorable car-buying experience, with moments of authentic surprise to delight our community at every step along the way.Tata Electric Car Showroom interiorsRecognising the very different expectations of EV buyers, the in-store experience has been designed to offer information, advice, and guidance in a friendly environment. While we use the power of technology to elevate the experience, the human touch remains ever-important. From new retail roles to passionate individuals immersed in the essence of our brand, our home of electric has been designed to be warm and welcoming, friendly and fun.” More