Aurelia Butler

More stories

  • 175 Shares199 Views

    in Bike

    Aprilia RS 457 Launch Price Rs 4.1 L – Bookings Open From 15th Dec

    Aprilia RS 457 launched in India. Image – apriliaridersclubbengaluruAprilia RS 457 will rival the likes of KTM RC 390, Kawasaki Ninja 400 and upcoming Yamaha R3With eyes on the 300cc to 500cc multicylinder bike segment, Aprilia has launched the RS 457 at India Bike Week. As the bike will be manufactured locally at the company’s facility in Baramati, Aprilia has been able to achieve a competitive price point of Rs 4.1 lakh. In comparison, the larger sibling RS 660 is imported and is priced much higher.Aprilia RS 457 – Key featuresWith its sporty profile, Aprilia RS 457 will target the new generation of bikers and racing enthusiasts. Some of the key highlights include sleek LED headlight with integrated turn signals, compact windscreen, sculpted fuel tank, dynamic fairing with sporty graphics, underbelly exhaust and short tail section. The bike has low-seat height, pulled-back clip-on handlebars and rear-set footpegs. The bike’s design promises exhilarating rides across standard roads as well as in a track environment.Aprilia RS 457 pricing announcedUsers can choose from three colour variants, each having a distinctive set of graphics and decals. The wheels are orange coloured or are blacked-out depending on the variant. For users who prefer a more personalized look and feel, Aprilia will be offering a range of accessories for RS 457.It includes seat cover, coloured transmission chain, high windscreen, tank bag, wheel stickers, etc. Functional accessories will also be available such as adjustable brake and clutch lever, helmet lock, side panniers, electronic antitheft and bidirectional quickshifter.Aprilia RS 457 launched in India.Aprilia RS 457 specs, performancePowering Aprilia RS 457 is a 457cc, parallel-twin, liquid cooled engine. It generates 47.6 hp of max power and 43.5 Nm of peak torque. The engine is mated to a 6-speed gearbox. The bike utilizes a dual beam aluminium frame, which has helped achieve a lightweight profile of 159 kg (dry weight). It helps improve the bike’s power-to-weight ratio. Seat height is 800 mm, whereas fuel tank capacity is 13 litres. The bike has 41 mm USD forks at front with 120 mm of travel. At rear, the monoshock suspension has 130 mm of travel.Aprilia RS 457 launched in IndiaAprilia RS 457 has 17-inch aluminium alloy wheels. These have also contributed to reducing the bike’s weight. The wheels are shod with 110/70 and 150/60 tyres at front and rear, respectively. The combo ensures exceptional grip without compromising on the bike’s agile characteristics. Braking duties are performed by 320 mm floating disc ByBre 4-piston radial callipers at front and 220 mm disc ByBre 2-piston callipers at rear. Dual-channel ABS with anti roll-over system is standard.Tech integrations include a 5-inch colour TFT display, backlit handlebar controls, three riding modes and traction control. The instrument console can be paired with the user’s smartphone via Bluetooth. It can be used to access a range of features including ride analytics and turn-by-turn navigation.To boost sales, Aprilia is in the process of expanding its dealer network across the country. RS 457 will also be exported to multiple global markets. As of now, RS 457 is being manufactured only in India. More

  • 175 Shares199 Views

    in Electric Cars

    Upcoming Electric Cars in India in 2024-25 – eVX, Creta EV, XUV.e8, Curvv EV

    Mahindra BE.05Major players in the electric car segment in India shortly will be Maruti Suzuki, Hyundai, Mahindra and Tata MotorsThere has been a paradigm shift in the Indian auto industry with the arrival of electric cars. Every automaker worthy of its name has not only ventured into this segment but has also reaped rich rewards. Set to take this leap of success even further, new and improved electric cars are on the horizon for launch in 2024 and beyond.Tata Motors the current leader in India’s electric vehicle onslaughtApart from manufacturers’ intent to conserve energy and preserve the environment, consumers have also shown concern about lending a hand to reduce carbon footprint, curb their dependence on fossil fuel and reap the benefits of home charging. On parallel lines, the government is doing everything in its power to ensure a smooth and efficient transition into the electric arena.However, despite these varied benefits, the electric car scenario in India also faces certain constraints. Primarily, there is also an urgent need for expansion of public charging facilities. Buyers also have to address higher initial purchase costs as compared to petrol and diesel variants. Customers are also faced with range anxiety, limited top speed and lower battery life. There are a host of upcoming electric cars set to launch in 2024. Here we list out these models, all of which have already been spied on test.Upcoming Electric Cars in 2024New Tata CurvvTata Curvv EVTata Motors will be adding one more electric car to its list with the Curvv EV which was showcased as a concept at the 2023 Auto Expo. It has been spied on test on public roads and boasts of a couple-like design. It will borrow its drivetrain from the new Nexon EV facelift with two battery pack options of medium range and long range. As of date, the Nexon EV boasts a 30 kWh battery and a larger 40.5 kWh battery with a drive range of around 500-550 km. The Curvv EV, spied in a production-ready format, could launch in early 2024 while the company also plans to add the Harrier EV and Safari EV to its electric portfolio.Maruti Suzuki eVXMaruti Suzuki eVXTests of the new eVX have commenced in India. It was showcased at the 2023 Auto Expo earlier this year and more recently showcased at the 2023 Tokyo Motor Show. Maruti eVX, the company’s first electric vehicle, will be positioned on the 27PL platform which has been derived from Toyota’s 40PL electric skateboard architecture while it will be produced from the Maruti Suzuki plant in Gujarat.Set to come in with a host of driver and passenger convenience features and the latest in technology, the Maruti eVX will also boast of advanced driver assistance systems (ADAS). Power showcased on the concept was a 60kWh battery pack offering a 550 km range though the production model could come in with a 48 kWh battery offering 400 km range.Mahindra BE.05 ProfileMahindra XUV700 Electric a.k.a. XUV.e8Mahindra XUV.e8 and BE.05Mahindra has released teaser videos of its three soon-to-be-launched electric SUVs – XUV.e8, XUV.e9 and BE.05 while they were spied undergoing extreme speed tests at the company’s track in Chennai. The XUV.e8 and XUV.e9 are based on the XUV700 and could launch either at the end of 2024 or in early 2025. The BE.05 on the other hand is set to be introduced in India in October 2025. All three electric models will be based on new INGLO platform which uses progressive battery technology, platform architecture and offers enhanced aerodynamics.Hyundai Creta Electric spied at a charging station in HaryanaHyundai Creta EVHyundai was the first automaker to bring in an electric SUV in India with the Kona. The company then launched the Ioniq 5 electric hatchback and now plans the Creta EV which has been spied on test in both Chennai and Haryana. The Creta EV will share some common elements with its ICE counterpart. It will be positioned below the Kona Electric and Ioniq 5. It is slated to be powered by a 55-60kWh battery pack with a range of around 550km on a single full charge. The automaker could showcase the Creta EV at 2025 Auto Expo ahead of its official launch in India. More

  • 150 Shares119 Views

    in Bike

    2W Retail Sales November 2023 – Hero, Honda, TVS, Bajaj, Royal Enfield

    Hero Karizma XMR 2102W retail sales November 2023 grew 21.08 percent YoY and 49.05 percent MoMThe 2W retail sales November 2023, as announced by Federation of Automobile Dealers Associations (FADA), for November 2023 saw a total of 22,47,366 units sold. This was a growth of 21.08 percent when compared to 18,56,108 units sold in November 2022. It was also a staggering MoM growth of 49.05 percent as against 15,07,756 units sold in October 2023, the month in which the segment recorded lower sales despite it being a festive month.2W Retail Sales November 2023Positive 2W sales of 22.47 units were seen surpassing previous highest recorded in March 2020 when sales had stood at 20.7 lakh units. Every two wheeler maker on this list has seen outstanding YoY growth in November 2023 except Piaggio and Classic Legends.Hero MotoCorp topped the list with 8,02,234 units sold in the past month, up from 6,37,534 units sold in November 2022 to command a 35.70 percent market share. It was also a significant growth over 4,17,750 units sold in October 2023 marking a near 50% MoM growth.At No. 2 was Honda with 5,12,865 units sold last month, up from 4,63,145 units sold in November 2023. Market share, however, dipped to 22.82 percent from 24.95 percent YoY. Honda has just launched the new Honda CB350, a retro-styled motorcycle in two variants – DLX and DLX PRO. It will take on the Royal Enfield Classic 350 in its segment.2W Retail Sales November 2023TVS Motor retail sales also improved to 3,65,295 units in the past month, up from 2,71,925 units sold in November 2022. It was also significant MoM growth from 2,51,435 units sold in October 2023.YoY growth in retail sales was also seen by Bajaj Auto Group with 2,74,181 units sold in the last month, up from 2,11,391 units sold in November 2022. Bajaj Auto is now testing the new Pulsar P125 which has been recently spied with fresh feature and engine updates. Once launched, it will rival TVS Raider 125, Honda SP 125 and Hero’s Glamour XTEC.Suzuki, Royal Enfield, YamahaThere was also Suzuki Motorcycle India at No. 5 with 82,443 units sold in November 2023 with a 3.67 percent market share. It was above 72,466 units sold in November 2022. Suzuki also reported a MoM growth from 79,782 units sold in October 2023.Royal Enfield retail sales also grew to 81,319 units in November 2023 to command a 3.62 percent market share, up from 70,139 units sold in November 2022 when market share had been at 3.78 percent. The company has introduced the new Reown outlet for sales, purchase and exchange of pre-owned RE bikes.With 63,781 unit sales in November 2023, India Yamaha Motors reported YoY growth from 70,139 units sold in November 2022 while MoM sales also grew from 55,289 units sold in October 2023.Electric 2W Retail Sales November 2023In the electric two wheeler segment, it was Ola Electric that saw the most retail sales at 29,808 units in the past month. This was over 16,385 units sold in November 2022. Ola Electric has introduced special discounts through December 2023 with ‘December to Remember’ bringing the S1 X+ down by Rs 20,000. With this discount, the S1 X+ which was originally priced at Rs 1,09,999 is currently being offered at Rs 89,999 (ex-showroom).Ather retail sales were up at 9,171 units last month from 7,839 units sold in November 2022 while Greaves Electric has seen outstanding sales growth to 4,411 units in November 2023 from 189 units sold in November 2022.Sales of Piaggio (3,423 units) and Classic Legends (3,166) dipped on a YoY basis. There had been 3,711 units and 3,727 units sold by these two wheeler makers in November 2022. Other two-wheeler OEMs on this list have reported a drastic dip in retail sales down to 15,269 units in November 2023 from 43,863 units sold in November 2022. More

  • 100 Shares119 Views

    in Bike

    EVolutionary Strategy – Hero MotoCorp and Ather Energy

    Ather Electric ScooterPublic Charging Infrastructure Evolution – Interoperable and FastProgressive collaboration between Hero MotoCorp and Ather Energy is set to expand EV public charging infrastructure across 100 cities. And could be a transformative moment for the Indian electric vehicle (EV) industry. This dynamic partnership aims to accommodate EV owners. And addresses concerns related to quick and convenient charging. Possibly almost anywhere.LECCS Breakthrough: Hero and Ather’s ConnectorThe collaboration’s centrepiece is the development of Light Electric Combined Charging System (LECCS). A system that has received approval from the Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS). This modern grid integrates AC and DC combined charging connectors.Hero Vida V1 Pro Global DebutAt the heart of this collaboration is the plan to establish 1900 fast-charging points strategically. A widespread network that focuses on delivering a qualitative charging experience. Ather and My VIDA apps, designed with user-centric interfaces, provide EV users with info as needed. These apps play a pivotal role in helping users navigate to charging stations.The Scale of India’s EV Charging EcosystemAccessibility to original equipment manufacturers (OEMs) adopting the LECCS standard, contribute to unifying the charging infrastructure. It not only fosters collaboration but also delivers convenience to EV users. LECCS is tenacious in its contribution to the expansion of public charging infrastructure. And looks set to grow as an agile response to the growing demands of the EV market.Overall exponential growth in charging infrastructure through the efforts of many OEMs and private players is not just a numerical milestone. It represents a progression chart in the evolution of EV infrastructure in India.Hero and Ather’s 1900-Point EV Power PlayThe selection of 100 cities for LECCS expansion is not arbitrary but a deliberate and strategic choice. And targets collaborative commitment to creating a comprehensive and accessible charging network. One that caters to expected growth in EV adoption.As India takes small steps towards an electric future, the Hero MotoCorp and Ather Energy partnership stands as a beacon of progress. A harmonious and unifying effort towards establishing the largest EV charging ecosystem. The collaboration is not merely a confluence; but one that aims to find a seat at the top. More

  • 113 Shares199 Views

    in Electric Cars

    Kia K-Charge introduced Across 1,000 charging stations in India

    Kia K-Charge ServicesK-Charge services are offered via the ‘MyKia’ app, are free for 3 months for Kia customers and can also be availed by non-Kia customersOne of the major concerns of an electric vehicle user is its range. Range anxieties or being caught out of battery power has deterred many a buyer, steering them towards the more tried and tested petrol/diesel powered vehicles. Lack of ample electric charging stations, especially in rural and semi urban areas are a major concern that needs to be tackled prior to the wholehearted acceptance of EVs in the country.Kia India introduces K-Charge Charging Initiative Accessibility for Every EV UserKia India has announced a special charging initiative with K-Charge being offered for users of the EV6 electric vehicle in India. This new K-Charge initiative is being offered across 1000+ charging stations in the country. This initiative will be offered to all Kia customers free of charge for 3 months while non Kia customers can also avail of the services.Kia India’s K-Charge can be accessed via the ‘MyKia’ App and is done by NumoCity Technologies – a leading CMS service provider. It will help to alleviate EV users range anxieties. This facility is also an industry first where it is also being offered to non-Kia users and via Relux Charging Stations in a special tie up for free 3 months charging to Kia EV6 owners.For the K-Charge services, Kia India has partnered with CPOs (Charge Point Operators) – Statiq, Charge Zone, Relux Electric, Lion Charge and E-Fill chargers to expand EV infrastructure. K-Charge offers the following services via the MyKia App. It aids EV users to access a range of EV services, view and locate charging stations through a Made-in-India map service provider – Map My India, check charging slots and locate the closest charging station.New Kia EV6Payments can also be made via the wallet service within the app. K-Charge offers several benefits to customers. Apart from allowing them more confidence in terms of range, the facility also removes the need to rely on external applications thereby enhancing the vehicle ownership experience.Kia India K-Charge ConvenienceThe Kia EV6, is currently the only electric vehicle in the company portfolio as on date even as the EV5 electric SUV has also made its debut in August 2023with an expected launch in January 2025. With the ‘EV for All,’ initiative, Kia India is aiming to achieve annual sales target of one million EVs by 2026. It will take this expansion plan further to target 1.6 million units annually by 2030.The Kia EV6 facelift is also on test, debut of which could take place in early 2024. Though under heavy camouflage, the new EV6 is sure to come in with some feature update which could include dual-tone alloy wheels, new headlight and taillight clusters along with some new exterior colour options. It will, however, continue to draw power via the same 77.4 kWh battery pack mated to electric motors which on the RWD version offers 266 hp power and 350 Nm torque going up to 321 hp and 605 Nm on the AWD version. Claimed range is at 708 kms on full charge.Words from the manufacturerAs stated by Mr. Hardeep Singh Brar, National Head of Sales and Marketing – “K-Charge is not just a convenience initiative for our customers but a step towards making sustainable mobility convenient and accessible for everyone. We strongly believe that the technology transition towards a complete EV future ought to be smooth, and the K-Charge, integrated into the ‘MyKia’ app, is a well-thought-out step in that direction.With this aim, we will continue our efforts towards expanding the charging network through the onboarding of new CPOs in the future. We are confident that seamless, user-friendly solutions like these will play a pivotal role in accelerating the adoption of electric vehicles in India.” More

  • 138 Shares169 Views

    in Electric Cars

    Kia EV6 Facelift Spotted Testing Again – Flagship EV9 Inspired Design

    New Kia EV6 FaceliftAs opposed to significant exterior changes with Kia EV6 facelift, interiors might be carried over or see minimal changesIn the push towards electric cars, Kia and Hyundai have been very active by launching multiple global vehicles and market-specific vehicles. First among the global electric vehicles from Kia was EV6 which is getting a mid-life facelift soon. Test mules have been spotted abroad and feature a radical new fascia influenced by its flagship EV9.Kia EV6 Facelift Spotted Testing AgainThe South Korean brand’s first EV for India is among the 28 electric cars that money can buy in India. It has been garnering good sales numbers too, where CBU vehicles are concerned. Even though EV6 is relatively new, Kia is keen on giving it a facelift that should eventually make its way to India as well.Just like the Carnival facelift recently unveiled, Kia EV6 facelift is inspired by the company’s flagship EV9 electric SUV. At front, we can see a heavily redesigned fascia. Kia has thoroughly camouflaged EV6 facelift test mule at the front, side and rear areas. Usually, camouflaged areas are the ones that will bear design changes.Going by that logic, we could witness a heavily reworked fascia, slightly different sheet metal stamping in profile and minimal changes with rear section. For starters, the headlights are now vertically arranged like on EV9 electric SUV, as opposed to horizontal arrangement on current model.[embedded content]There seems to be a new alloy wheel design along with slightly different lines and creases in profile. Rear gets new LED signature in its tail lights. However, overall tail light design aesthetic seems to have been retained from current model. Front and rear bumpers will see a revision too, bringing more aggression and flair to its design.Changes in powertrains?On the inside, we don’t expect much difference over what Kia is offering with current EV6 on sale globally. That’s not a bad thing as it has twin 12.3-inch horizontal displays, one for infotainment and other for instrumentation. Two-spoke steering wheel, physical switches and dials for crucial elements are notable aspects with Kia EV6’ interiors.Where powertrains are concerned, Kia is offering two versions of EV6 in India – RWD and AWD. Both of them get the same 77.4 kWh battery pack. Single motor RWD version boasts 226 bhp and 350 Nm, whereas dual motor AWD version packs 321 bhp and 605 Nm. Both these versions are based on GT Line trim.EV9 inspired headlightsWe hope Kia India launches the maxed-out EV6 GT with facelifted model. This GT version gets 575 bhp and 740 Nm with eye-watering 0-100 km/h time of around 3.6 seconds. India launch could happen in 2025. Official confirmation regarding the same is due. More

  • 138 Shares109 Views

    in Bike

    Benelli BKX 300 Debuts – New ADV Bike, Launch In 2024

    Benelli BKX 300 DebutsA lightweight, versatile machine, Benelli BKX 300 promises fun rides across off-road tracks as well as asphalt roadsFor budding enthusiasts, Benelli has unveiled an all-new BKX 300 adventure bike. It is primarily targeted at the younger generation of riders who have a greater propensity to move freely and explore new routes. Benelli BKX 300 will go on sale in China in 2024. It will also be available in multiple European markets.Benelli BKX 300 Debuts – Key featuresBenelli BKX 300 has a striking profile that instantly gets one’s attention. The bike has been designed at Benelli Style Centre in Pesaro, Italy. Overall styling is a fusion of conventional ADV signatures and progressive, futuristic design elements.Some of the key highlights include an aggressive front fascia, sharp headlamp with DRLs, large side panels, hand guards, sculpted fuel tank, rally-style seat and under seat exhaust. A dual-tone colour theme of white and fluorescent yellow brings more dynamism to the bike.Benelli has also introduced a road variant named BKX 300 S. It is based on the same platform, but has a distinct profile. BKX 300 S is more agile and lightweight, as it gets minimal bodywork. Both bikes are equipped with an LCD instrument display.Benelli BKX 300 ProfileBenelli BKX 300 specs, performancePowering Benelli BKX 300 is a brand new 292.4 cc, liquid cooled, four-stroke single-cylinder engine. It generates 29.2 PS of max power and 24.5 Nm of peak torque. The engine is mated to a 6-speed gearbox. The new 292.4 cc engine is an evolved version of the existing 250cc engine in use with Benelli bikes such as TRK 251 and Leoncino 250.A number of tweaks have been performed in the engine architecture, covering parts such as intake and exhaust valves, combustion chamber and transmission components. The counter balance shaft has been redesigned in order to increase reliability and reduce vibrations. An entirely new exhaust system has been used, focused on achieving a desirable torque curve.Benelli BKX 300 comes with a slipper clutch for smoother gear shifts. The bike utilizes a Trellis frame, integrated with 41mm USD forks at front, offering 180 mm of travel. At rear, the bike has a swingarm and mono-shock suspension with 180 mm of travel. The bike uses 19-inch and 17-inch wheels at front and rear, respectively.Benelli BKX 300These are shod with 100/90 and 140/80 tyres. Braking duties are performed by 280 mm and 240 mm discs at front and rear, respectively. Dual-channel ABS is offered as standard. Benelli BKX 300 weighs 165 kg and has ground clearance of 220 mm.Will Benelli BKX 300 launch in India?The bike complies with Euro 5+ emission norms, which makes it India-ready. Whether or not it is launched here remains to be seen. Demand for entry-level ADVs is on the rise in India. Benelli BKX 300 can be a good option, especially if made available at an affordable price point. If launched here, Benelli BKX 300 will take on rivals such as Himalayan 411, Yezdi Adventure and BMW G310GS. More

  • 113 Shares159 Views

    in Bike

    Royal Enfield ‘Reown’ Launched – Company’s Pre-Owned Motorcycle Initiative

    Royal Enfield Reown Program LaunchedReown offers a wide range pre-owned Royal Enfield motorcycles, allows for exchange and also facilitates sale of Royal Enfield modelsRoyal Enfield has launched a one-stop solution for customers to sell, purchase and exchange pre-owned Royal Enfield motorcycles. Reown outlets will be spread across cities of Delhi, Mumbai, Kolkata, Bangalore and Chennai and offer buyers a completely hassle-free experience with the guarantee of fair price, easy transfers and complete documentation.Royal Enfield Launches ‘Reown’ ProgramBuyers and biking aficionados in India, who find the cost of a brand-new Royal Enfield bike beyond their economic limits can take advantage of these Reown outlets to pick up a pre-owned bike at a fraction of the cost.The love for a Royal Enfield motorcycle grows among the riding fraternity in the country. Purchasing such a bike that currently starts at Rs 1.93-2.25 lakh (ex-showroom) for the Royal Enfield Classic 350 and goes up to Rs 3.19-3.45 lakh (ex-showroom) for the Royal Enfield Continental GT 650 could be a difficult proposition.To aid this, the company has introduced Reown which gives access to buyers of pre-owned motorcycles. The outlets are backed by trust, convenience and assurance and are a one-stop solution for a wide range of pre-owned Royal Enfield motorcycles.Bikes on Reown undergo 200+ technical and mechanical checksCustomers have access to both in-store and online services. They can sell or exchange their existing Royal Enfield bike and will be assisted through the process by a relationship manager for a hassle-free selling or exchange experience. Customers wishing to sell their bikes will have to fill up a form, to book an inspection.Each pre-owned bike undergoes a series of 200+ technical and mechanical checks and defective parts are replaced by genuine parts at Royal Enfield service centers. On purchasing a pre-owned motorcycle, the buyers are offered brand warranty and 2 free services while sellers can avail loyalty benefits of Rs 5,000 on genuine motorcycle accessories on their next purchase of a new Royal Enfield motorcycle.To ensure this sale, exchange and upgrade with ease, Royal Enfield has also entered into a partnership with HDFC and IDFC to offer buyers attractive finance options. Adroit Auto is offering its services for doorstep evaluation of motorcycles while Shriram Group will enable buyers to upgrade from other two-wheeler brands to Royal Enfield models.In related news, Royal Enfield has commenced deliveries of the Himalayan 450 in India. It is priced at Rs. 2.69 lakh (ex-showroom) for base Kaza Brown shade, while the top-of-the-line Hanle Black colour carries a price tag of Rs. 2.84 lakh (ex-showroom). In October, the company updated the RE Meteor 350 with new features and colour options and a brand new Aurora trim level has been added. More