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    Hero Electric Dealers Demand Rs 500 Crore Pending Payments – Stage Protests At HQ

    Hero Electric DealersThe dealers claim that Hero Electric has not paid them in the past two years due to which outstanding payments have escalated to around Rs 500 croresThere is an ongoing battle between Hero Electric and the company dealers. The dealers complain that even as more than Rs 150 crores have been paid to the company in advance for supply of electric scooters, the company claims otherwise, ‘jo karna hai kar lijiye’ (you are free to take any recourse). In 2021, Hero Electric had stated that they aim to sell 10 lakh electric scooters / EVs per year.Hero Electric Dealers Protest at Gurugram HQOver 200 Hero Electric dealers have been protesting outside the Hero Electric headquarters in Gurugram, seeking dues that run into hundreds of crores. In the past year alone, the dealers have deposited over Rs 150 crores into the accounts of Hero Electric. This amount was taken in advance for the supply of the company’s range of electric scooters, however, neither were deliveries made nor were warranty for spare parts provided.Hero Electric dealers protesting at company HQ pic.twitter.com/jfoL3B3TTP— RushLane (@rushlane) August 9, 2024A letter written by the dealers to the Prime Minister seeks his intervention into their grievances. The pending payment currently amounts to Rs 500 crores while at the same time leaving around 50,000 customers in dire straits due to the warranty of spares issue not being sorted out.Hero Electric Dealers AngryThis disparity between the management and its dealerships have left many dealers at their wits end. Some have even attempted suicide. They are left facing the issue of depleting sales due to no batteries and chargers being supplied which are under warranty. Subsidies to be passed on to end-customers as per the FAME-II policy has also not been reimbursed till date. The dealers also have to face angry customers who have been attacking dealers due to no servicing being offered on their vehicles.Hero Electric dealers protest – Says company holding Rs 500 crores byu/UseSimilar3989 inindianbikesNishant Bansal, a Delhi-based dealer and the President of World Federation of ZE EV and Welfare Association has stated that dealers have been left with huge debts. They now seek immediate compensation and reimbursement from the company and the assurance that outstanding warranty and supply of spare parts will be addressed on a war footing. This issue has affected over 50,000 electric vehicles from Hero Electric, leaving scores of customers dissatisfied and angry.A point to be noted is that Delhi High Court along with Punjab and Haryana High Court have also admitted petitions by Hero Electric disputing actions of the Ministry of Heavy Industries and sought recovery of pending subsidies to the tune of over Rs 550 crore since 2021.Hero Electric Management Denies AllegationsIn response to the above contention from company dealers, Hero Electric held a meeting with the dealers at the company headquarters in Gurugram, but refused to pay even a part of the outstanding dues, according to Bansal. He also stated that when urged to pay at least a part of the dues, the management refused, stating ‘jo karna hai kar lijiye’ (you are free to take any recourse). The company claimed that these claims of Rs 500 crore pending amounts is false and mischievous.A spokesperson at Hero Electric stated “Dealers have separate agreements with the company, based on their sales estimates. Production shutdown for the last nine months has caused delays; however, the company has already started production, and dispatch of vehicles has already commenced with a commitment to the dealers to resolve open issues by December 2024”. More

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    in Motor News

    ChargePoint’s New ‘Omni Port’ Is One Port to Rule Them All

    ChargePoint has a new one-size-fits-all solution to public charging with the introduction of the “Omni Port.”The Omni Port combines the Level 2 SAE J1772 plug with the Combined Charging System (CCS1) and Tesla’s NACS plugs. According to ChargePoint, users on the network enter their vehicle’s make and model, and then the charger deploys the correct port as needed. The electric-vehicle charging landscape is a confusing one. Don’t believe us? Ask any friend with an EV what they think about Chevy Bolt owners using their local fast-charger. ChargePoint, an EV charging company, aims to simplify the process for EV owners throughout North America with its new “Omni Port.”The Omni Port combines the Level 2 SAE J1772 plug with the Combined Charging System (CCS1) plug and Tesla’s proprietary North American Charging Standard (NACS) plug. The new single port lets both Tesla and non-Tesla EV drivers pull up and charge at the same station without having to choose between plugs. Because electric vehicles from various automakers currently have different charging ports, not all EVs can replenish their battery at every charger. To simplify the process for consumers, automakers have been signing up, one at a time, to adopt Tesla’s NACS plug, though none have actually made the shift yet. You can find the full list of automakers who have agreed to join the NACS network here. According to ChargePoint, people who use the ChargePoint network will simply enter their vehicle’s make and model into the app and then initiate a charge. Omni Port-equipped charging stations will then automatically deploy the correct plug for your vehicle. Customers who aren’t on the ChargePoint network can still make use of the technology by manually selecting the correct plug at the station. ChargePoint’s Omni Port will begin rolling out later this year at new locations as well as existing AC and DC stations. The Omni Port can also be added to existing ChargePoint CP6000 and Express Plus Power Link 2000 models at a nominal cost, according to the company.The company is touting the new system as the “only publicly available solution to solve North America’s EV connector confusion across AC and DC charging.” In the words of the brand’s CEO Rick Wilmer, “With Omni port, ChargePoint solved the challenges associated with a multiple connector environment, ensuring Tesla and non-Tesla drivers can continue to expect a world-class driver experience.” We’d also suggest adding a sign scaring Bolt owners away from DC fast-chargers.More on Electric VehiclesJack 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 Motor News

    2025 Ford Police Interceptor Keeps the Hybrid Powertrain

    The 2025 Ford Police Interceptor Utility just launched with quality-of-life improvements and better driver safety tech. While the hybrid powertrain has been dropped from the production Explorer, it remains standard on the Interceptor.There’s also a new 12.3-inch LCD digital instrument cluster with a certified speedometer.Ford dropped the 3.3-liter V-6 hybrid powertrain from the production Explorer’s lineup following the 2023 model year. We’re happy to report that Ford Pro just launched the 2025 Police Interceptor Utility and the hybrid sticks around. Ford ProIt’s got a 285-hp naturally aspirated V-6 and a 44-hp electric motor that brings the total output to 318 horsepower. Since officers spend most of their time in the field tootling around in traffic or idling while performing routine duties like speed enforcement and traffic control—the hybrid’s battery can take over the brunt of the idle work from the engine. According to Ford, the hybrid system can save up to 838 gallons of fuel per year—resulting in savings of $17,500 over six years, assuming gas prices of $3.50 per gallon. The nonhybrid engine options are back as well, with the 285-hp 3.3-liter V-6 returning, along with the turbocharged 3.0-liter V-6 that makes 400 horsepower and 415 pound-feet of torque. The 2025 Interceptor adds some new quality-of-life changes to make officers’ lives easier. There’s a new 12.3-inch LCD digital instrument cluster with a certified speedometer to make information clearer to officers while they’re driving. More Ford Police VehiclesStandard features have also been improved, with the Police Perimeter Alert system now standard. Ford says it can detect moving threats around the vehicle, activate the rear camera, sound a chime, roll up the windows, and lock the doors. Driver safety tech is improved as well, with systems like automated emergency braking, blind-spot monitoring with cross-traffic alert, rear parking sensors, and reverse brake assist all added. 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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    2024 TVS Ntorq 125 Updated With New Colours – Black Edition Launched

    2024 TVS Ntorq 125TVS Motor Company Introduces Exciting New Colour Options for TVS NTORQ LineupTVS has launched new colour variants for the Ntorq 125 and the Race XP series. This move aims to cater to diverse consumer preferences, combining style with performance. The new colours are – Turquoise, Harlequin Blue, and Nardo Grey. These additions reflect the growing trend towards minimalist and modern designs.2024 TVS Ntorq Updated – New ColoursMeanwhile, the TVS NTORQ Race XP, aimed at thrill-seekers, introduces a matte black special edition, featuring a mix of matte and glossy piano black textures, enhancing its edgy appeal. Complementing the stylish new colours, the TVS NTORQ 125 boasts a robust 124.8 cc, three-valve engine, delivering 9.5 PS at 7,000 RPM and 10.6 Nm of torque at 5,500 RPM. The scooter is equipped with several practical enhancements, including Bluetooth connectivity, a fully digital display, dual ride modes, and a signature LED headlamp, ensuring an exceptional riding experience.2024 TVS Ntorq 125 – Black EditionThe TVS NTORQ Race XP edition, built for ultimate adventure, is powered by a 124.8 cc three-valve engine that produces an impressive 10.2 PS at 7,000 RPM and 10.9 Nm of torque at 5,500 RPM, making it the most powerful scooter in its class. The scooters feature an Automatic Centrifugal Clutch, enabling smooth and effortless acceleration, with the NTORQ 125 achieving a 0-60 km/h sprint in just 8.9 seconds.2024 TVS Ntorq Key HighlightsPricing and SpecsThe new variants of the TVS NTORQ 125 and TVS NTORQ Race XP are now available at authorized TVS Motor Company dealerships across India, starting at Rs 86,871 (Ex-showroom Delhi) for the NTORQ 125 and Rs 97,501 (Ex-showroom Delhi) for the Race XP.2024 TVS Ntorq 125In terms of dimensions, both models measure 1861 mm in length, 710 mm in width, and 1164 mm in height, with a wheelbase of 1285 mm and a ground clearance of 155 mm, providing stability and comfort on various terrains. Ntorq has a kerb weight of 111 kg, making them easy to handle and manoeuvre.2024 TVS Ntorq 125For suspension, the front features Telescopic Suspension with Hydraulic Dampers, while the rear is equipped with a Coil Spring with Hydraulic Dampers, ensuring a smooth ride even on rough roads. The scooters ride on tubeless tires, with a 100/80-12 tire at the front and a 110/80-12 tire at the rear, providing excellent grip and stability.Braking is managed by a 220 mm front disc with Synchronized Braking Technology (SBT) or a 130 mm drum with SBT, along with a 130 mm rear drum brake, offering reliable and efficient stopping power. The fuel tank capacity is 5.8 liters, allowing for extended rides without frequent refuelling.2024 TVS Ntorq 125Mr. Aniruddha Haldar, Senior Vice President, Marketing – Scooters, Commuter Motorcycles & Corporate Brand, TVS Motor Company, said, “At TVS Motor, it is our endeavour to provide a platform for self-expression to our customers. The TVS NTORQ 125 and TVS NTORQ Race XP exemplify our commitment to this vision. The new striking colour variants showcase a modern approach to scooter design, seamlessly combining excitement with self-expression.” More

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    in Electric Cars

    Tata Nexon EV Discounts Increased To Rs 1.8 Lakh – A Day After Curvv EV Launch

    Image – JayarajA day after Tata Motors launched Curvv EV at a starting price of Rs 17.49 lakh, they have increased discounts on the Nexon EVTata Passenger Electric Mobility Ltd. (TPEML) has introduced a series of discounts and special benefits on its range of electric vehicles through the month of August 2024. These discounts follow the special pricing being offered on the company’s ICE models.Tata EV Green Bonus August 2024 – Tiago, PunchDiscounts and benefits on the Tiago EV, Punch EV and Nexon EV range from Rs 10,000 to Rs 1.80 lakh depending on model and variant and are valid from August 7-31, 2024.Tata EV Discounts Aug 2024 – Tiago, Punch, NexonStarting with the Tata Tiago, currently the most affordable EV on offer from Tata Motors, the XE and XT mid-range models, green bonus benefits are at Rs 10,000 for MY24 models. This extends to Rs 50,000 on the Tiago EV XY long range. Tiago XZ+ 3.3 kW receives a Rs 40,000 green bonus while the Tiago EV 7.2 kW along with XZ+ Teck Lux variants can be handed a green benefit of Rs 25,000. For MY23 Tiago EV the green bonus is at Rs 15,000 over and above the MY24 bonus and is inclusive of all taxes and GST.The green bonus also being offered across the Punch EV range is at Rs 10,000 for the 3.3 kW mid-range variant and at Rs 30,000 for the 3.3 kW and 7.2 kW long range trims. Tata Punch in the sub 4m SUV segment, available in both ICE (Petrol and CNG) and EV versions and recently crossed the 4 lakh sales milestone, a feat achieved in 34 months of launch.Tata Nexon EV discounts increased a day after Curvv EV was launchedTata EV Green Bonus August 2024 – NexonTata Nexon EV MY24 range is also a part of these green bonus discounts. Starting with the Nexon 3.0 mid-range Creative+ the benefits are at Rs 20,000. Buyers of the Fearless and Fearless+ variant can avail of benefits upto Rs 1,00,000 while the Fearless +S is now cheaper by Rs 1,10,000.The Green bonus on Tata Nexon 3.0 EV higher trims, that include the Empowered and across all variants of the Fearless Long Range, the benefits extend upto Rs 1,20,000. The highest green bonus is being offered with the Nexon 3.0 7.2 kW Empowered + and Dark Empowered + which is at Rs 1,80,000. For MY23 range of Tata Nexon, these benefits are at Rs 25,0000 over and above that offered for MY24 models.With this aggressive pricing for Nexon EV, Tata Motors is making sure that there is not much cannibalization within their own EV range. Especially after the launch of new Tata Curvv EV yesterday, at an aggressive price tag of Rs 17.49 lakh, ex-sh. More

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    Bajaj To Launch 2 New Triumph 400 Motorcycles Before Diwali 2024

    Triumph Speedmaster 400 renderWhile one of the 2 new Triumph 400 motorcycles is Thruxton 400, second model could be Street 400, Daytona 400 or Speedmaster 400The strategic partnership between Bajaj Auto and Triumph has resulted in the new 400 platform. Based on this platform, Triumph has launched two new single-cylinder affordable motorcycles – Speed 400 and Scrambler 400X. Now, the Bajaj-Triumph duo is expanding the 400 lineup to incorporate two new motorcycles. Let’s take a look.2 New Triumph 400 MotorcyclesFor a very long time, Triumph stayed as a premium brand. Even their most affordable model would come off as expensive for general consensus. That was changed with the new Speed 400 and Scrambler 400X, offering Triumph badge at a much more affordable cost. Thus opening a portal for a vast majority of motorcycling enthusiasts.Triumph Thruxton 400 bikini fairingThis portal is now being expanded beyond Speed 400 and Scrambler 400X. As per a recent report by CNBC-TV18, Triumph is on the verge of launching two new motorcycles based on this affordable 400 platform. They will be based on the same chassis and be powered by the same 398.15cc single-cylinder engine.As per this report, the new incoming motorcycles will feature an updated design. Also, they will reportedly come with new price points that will boost sales in the ballpark of 10,000 units per month. People in the know have told CNBC-TV18 Bajaj will have the production capacity to manufacture 10,000 Triumph motorcycles by October 2024.Triumph Thruxton 400 renderWhat can we expect?For starters, Triumph has commenced testing of Thruxton 400 which might be one of the two upcoming 400cc motorcycles. This is a semi-faired and sportier version of Speed 400. Triumph is going for a retro semi-faired cafe racer look with this motorcycle, inspired from Triumph Thruxton R design.As seen in spy shots, it gets design highlights like round headlight, fin-like elements flanking the headlight, bar-end mirrors, a clear windscreen and more. Alloy wheels, fuel tank, main frame, sub frame, seat, and other componentry looked identical to Speed 400.The main mystery is around Triumph’s second upcoming 400cc motorcycle. There have not been any spy shots regarding this and we could only speculate what it might emerge as. There is a possibility of it being a Speedmaster 400, a cruiser with a long wheelbase based on Speed 400 design.Another possibility is a 400cc Street motorcycle with a significantly wilder design than current retro-oriented 400cc motorcycles. Imagine the looks of a Street Triple with its bug-eye fascia with a 400cc engine to take on KTM 390 Duke. There might be a Daytone 400 too, a fully faired sporty 400cc offering to rival KTM RC 390. More information will be revealed in the future.Source More

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    Supercar Blondie features an Indian automobile brand for the first time!

    Supercar Blondie testing Ultraviolette F77 Mach 2Designed by experts from the aviation industry, the Ultraviolette F77 Mach 2 is the world’s most advanced electric motorcycle.The Supercar Blondie Test – With its advanced capabilities, Ultraviolette F77 Mach 2 was recently evaluated by SuperCar Blondie. Arguably the biggest auto influencer in the world, SuperCar Blondie has presented some exceptional cars and motorcycles to its viewers.Ultraviolette F77 Mach 2 Electric Motorcycle – Racing against a JetWhen reviewing the Ultraviolette F77 Mach 2, the motorcycle was put up against an RC jet in a drag race. While the RC jet has speeds of over 300 km in air, this contest was limited to the runway. With the Ballistic mode on, Ultraviolette F77 Mach 2 scored a win. Even though the race was neck and neck demonstrating the top notch acceleration of the motorcycle to keep up with the nimble and quick jet that runs on aviation fuel.Ultraviolette F77 Mach 2 Electric Motorcycle Submerged In The Deepest Man-made Pool in the worldUnderwater Feat – In a world-first, the F77 Mach 2 was submerged 20 meters underwater at Deep Dive Dubai, the world’s largest and deepest man-made pool. This incredible stunt highlights the motorcycle’s engineering prowess and build quality. The bike now holds a place of honour underwater, accessible to all visitors at the Dubai Dive Centre.[embedded content]Ultraviolette F77 Mach 2 – Specs, rangeDesigned for folks who prioritize performance and style, the Ultraviolette F77 Mach 2 utilizes cutting-edge technology and innovation. The F77 Mach 2 electric motorcycle has a 7.1 kWh battery pack. Power and torque output is 36.2 hp and 90 Nm. In comparison, the top-spec F77 Mach 2 Recon variant has a 10.3 kWh battery pack. It delivers 40.2 hp and 100 Nm. Both variants have a top speed of 155 km/H. The Recon variant can achieve 0 to 60 km/H in just 2.8 seconds, while the standard variant does it in 2.9 seconds.Ultraviolette F77 Mach 2 Electric Motorcycle Towing 15,000 KgAs per IDC standards, Ultraviolette F77 Mach 2 has a 211 km range. The Recon variant has a higher range of 323 km. Range will depend on the mode selected. In Glide mode, the F77 Mach 2 Recon offers a range of 266 km. In Combat and Ballistic mode, the range is 209 km and 186 km, respectively. Users can enhance the range by using the regen braking system. F77 Mach 2 has 10 levels of regenerative braking.Supercar Blondie impressed with made in India Ultraviolette F77 Mach 2Using a standard charger, 20% to 80% can be achieved in 3 hours. The Recon variant takes 5 hours. Charging is much faster when using the Boost charger or a 12 kW DC fast charger. Ultraviolette F77 Mach 2 utilizes a steel trellis frame, with 41 mm USD forks and a monoshock rear suspension. Braking setup comprises 320 mm front and 230 mm rear disc brakes.Ultraviolette F77 Mach 2 Electric Motorcycle Is Now Permanently Placed In The World’s Deepest Man Made PoolAdvanced safety featuresUltraviolette F77 Mach 2 is equipped with a comprehensive range of safety features. It includes auto dimming LED headlight, side stand sensor, traction control, hill hold, dual-channel ABS and dynamic stability control (DSC). Safety is also improved with features such as tyre pressure monitoring system, Delta Watch, Lockdown, anti-collision warning system and crash alert. The battery pack comes with a patented 5-level safety system. It’s the only battery pack in India to be equipped with cell level fuse technology.Made in India Ultraviolette F77 Mach 2 Electric MotorcycleMaking in India, for the worldEngineered by experts from the aviation industry, this high-performance electric motorcycle is not just for Indian roads but is set to make waves globally. Ultraviolette F77 Mach 2 will be the first Indian electric motorcycle to be launched in Europe soon. With capabilities to establish a global footprint, the Ultraviolette F77 Mach 2 can be described as the ‘Tesla of India’. More

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    in Electric Cars

    Mahindra BE.05 Spied Next To Dzire – Could Be A Sub-4m-SUV

    Mahindra BE.05 Electric SUVAmong Mahindra’s BE range of electric cars, the BE.05 will be the smallest in size and have the lowest pricingMahindra has revealed 5 new electric SUVs, based on the born-electric INGLO platform. These are broadly classified into XUV and BE range. Test mules have been spotted frequently in recent months.Mahindra BE.05 spotted next to DzireLatest spy shots reveal interesting details about the size of BE.05. In its concept form, BE.05 was presented as a 4,370 mm long SUV. With that size, BE.05 is slotted into the compact SUV segment. But in this recent sighting, BE.05 can be seen alongside a Maruti Dzire sedan that is 3,995 mm in length. While BE.05 appears taller and has larger alloy wheels, the length seems to be almost the same as Dzire.Mahindra BE.05 Electric SUVIt’s difficult to arrive at a definitive conclusion, since images are known to trick the mind via optical illusion. A difference of 37 cm can be tough to identify, especially when the image has been taken from a distance. Camera angle can easily alter the perception of size. If one car is slightly angled or positioned in a way that affects visual comparison, it could skew the apparent size difference.Dimensional details of the production-spec BE.05 are not available at this point of time. In other aspects such as design and styling and equipment list, Mahindra has closely matched the features seen with the concept model.Mahindra BE.05 Electric SUVTop-spec variants of BE.05 have quirky C-shaped LED DRLs, sculpted body panelling, squared-off wheel arches and a coupe-like sloping roofline. The design at the rear also focuses on C-shaped light signatures.Mahindra BE.05 Electric SUVMahindra BE.05 interiorsWith the cockpit space clearly segmented in the middle, BE.05 promises a distinct cabin experience for the driver and front passenger. Most of the features seen with the concept are available with the production version. Some of the key highlights include a hexagonal steering wheel and integrated infotainment and instrument screens. Fabric upholstery has been used, most likely made from recyclable materials.Centre console has a circular dial that is likely for terrain modes or drive modes. A big gear selector and electronic parking brake will also be there on the centre console. Digital sliders will be available to control volume, brightness and sunroof. Test mules have confirmed the presence of ventilated seats. Bronze highlights have been used liberally all across the cockpit section.Mahindra BE.05 Electric SUVMahindra BE.05 – Specs, rangeBE.05 is expected to get a battery pack of around 60 kWh capacity. While base variants will have RWD, top-spec variants could deliver a more exhilarating performance with an all-wheel drive setup. Mahindra had revealed that SUVs based on the INGLO platform will be able to achieve 0 to 100 km/h in just around 5-6 seconds. INGLO-based SUVs will also offer class-leading range. Top-variants of BE.05 could have a range of around 450 km. Enhanced aerodynamics and advanced regen system will help optimize range. More