More stories

  • in

    Bajaj Pulsar N125 Launch Date, New Colour – Teaser Says ‘Zigzag Through Traffic’

    Bajaj Pulsar N125 – New colour teaserBajaj Pulsar N125 will take on the likes of TVS Raider and the Hero Xtreme 125R in the sporty 125cc category
    Bajaj Auto, one of India’s leading manufacturers of two-wheelers, is gearing up for the launch of the new Pulsar N125. Teasers have been released on social media, showcasing the bike’s aggressive and daring design with the tagline, “Made to zig zag through traffic, designed to cut the chaos.” The official launch is set for October 17, 2024, and expectations are high as Bajaj aims to solidify its dominance in the 125cc segment.
    Bajaj Pulsar N125 First Official Teaser Out
    2024 has been an eventful year for Bajaj Auto, marked by significant launches such as the Freedom 125 CNG, the world’s first CNG motorcycle, and the flagship Pulsar NS400Z. With the new Pulsar N125, Bajaj looks to further strengthen its presence in the 125cc category.
    Bajaj Pulsar N125 – New teaser
    The teaser images hint at the bike’s capability to maneuver through urban chaos with ease. Bajaj’s focus on a “daring” and “chaos-cutting” design is reflected in the overall aggressive look and performance orientation. The riding posture seems sporty yet comfortable, with a slight lean on the handlebars, making it an appealing option for young, dynamic riders.
    The Pulsar N125 will be positioned as the sportiest among Bajaj’s 125cc offerings, joining the Pulsar 125 and the Pulsar NS125. It features a sleek and aggressive design, staying true to the Pulsar family’s DNA. The muscular tank shrouds and sharp headlight design add to the sporty appeal, while the sculpted fuel tank, split-seat layout, and single-piece grab rail for the pillion rider complete its dynamic look.
    Bajaj Pulsar N125 – New teaser
    Features and Design Highlights
    New Pulsar N125 stands out with its fully digital instrument cluster, offering Bluetooth connectivity for a modern riding experience. Its 17-inch alloy wheels are reminiscent of the Pulsar P150, while the braking setup includes a front disc brake and a rear drum brake.
    In terms of power, the Pulsar N125 is equipped with a 125cc air-cooled single-cylinder engine that produces 11.8 PS of power and 10.8 Nm of torque, paired with a 5-speed gearbox. This makes it a strong competitor against the Hero Xtreme 125R and TVS Raider 125 in the Indian market.
    Bajaj Pulsar N125 – New teaser
    Official launch will take place on the 17th October, which is when the pricing and variant details will also be revealed. Expect the new Pulsar N125 to be priced aggressively to take on rivals in the segment. More

  • in

    BMW G310R and G310GS Festive Offers Launched

    BMW G310R and G310GS Festive Offers
    With attractive offers offered with BMW G310R and G310GS around the festive season, the company aims to boost sales and extend their reach
    The strategic partnership with TVS Motor has enabled BMW Motorrad to enter into a price segment where the company has never operated before. Based on a co-developed 310cc platform, BMW offers G 310 R street naked, G 310 GS ADV and G 310 RR faired machine both here in India and abroad.
    G 310 RR fully-faired motorcycle is the newest product from BMW based on this 310 platform. Whereas G 310 R was the one that kick started this genre for BMW and then popularised further by G 310 GS. For the 2024 festive season, BMW Motorrad is offering limited period offers with G 310 R and G 310 GS. Let’s take a look.
    BMW G310R and G310GS Festive Offers
    To light up the festive season with joy, BMW Motorrad has launched a comprehensive range of offers to benefit the buyers. The attractive offers are only offered with BMW G 310 R street naked motorcycle and G 310 GS ADV tourer, while the fully faired G 310 RR is missing from these benefits.
    The company is offering these attractive festive offers for a limited period of time. Buyers can avail these offers starting today, 15th of October, 2024. Because these offers are only for limited period, they will applicable to buyers who purchased G 310 R and G 310 GS by 15th November 2024.
    2024 BMW G310 Range Updated
    BMW Motorrad’s comprehensive festive offers include attractive finance options, comprehensive service packages along with extended warranty. As part of its attractive financing options around festive season, BMW is offering zero down payment options and EMIs starting from as low as Rs 6,999 for G 310 R and Rs 7,999 for G 310 GS.
    What are the benefits?
    These EMI costs incorporates ‘BMW Motorrad Service Inclusive’ that covers comprehensive maintenance of the bike for 3 years with applicable labour charges. Along with that, there is 2 years of extended warranty and 3 years standard warranty, offering peace of mind.
    On top of these, BMW promises flexible financial solutions with loans approved before delivery. Buyers can also opt for BMW’s road side assistance package promising prompt services during breakdowns and towing solutions. Buyers can go through BMW’s accessories catalogue for individualisation as well.
    2024 BMW G310 Range Updated
    Both BMW G 310 R and G 310 GS come equipped with a host of premium components. They are powered by a single-cylinder 313cc engine with DOHC 4V head and liquid-cooling setup that is capable of generating around 34 PS of peak power and 28 Nm of peak torque, mated to a 6-speed gearbox. More

  • in

    Ola Electric Shares Clarification With The BSE Regarding BOSS Sale Discounts

    Ola Electric Scooter outside a service outletOla Electric, facing increased regulatory scrutiny over its recent BOSS sale discounts, has clarified its position in a formal response to the Bombay Stock Exchange (BSE)
    Ola Electric share price has seen a massive drop recently, raising concerns regarding its pricing strategy, particularly for the S1 X 2kWh model. From a peak of Rs 157 in August, Ola Electric share price was at Rs 87.46 at the end of trading day on 14th October.
    Ola Electric ‘BOSS’ Discounts
    Following reduced sales and complaints of flawed after sales service, Ola Electric is now resorting to the ‘BOSS’ offer to cash in on festive buying. The S1 X 2kWh model is being presented at Rs 49,999 which is lower than the ex-factory price. This according to ARAI was done without them being informed in advance.
    Ola Electric Scooter At Rs 50k
    ARAI has hence asked Ola Electric to offer more clarity on this significantly reduced pricing. Failure to give any satisfactory reasons, the company could lose the subsidies which are being offered under PM Electric DRIVE Revolution in Innovative Vehicle Enhancement (PM E-DRIVE) scheme, which recently replaced FAME-II. The company also faces strong action in terms of widespread consumer complaints, compounding this issue even further.
    Called BOSS (Biggest Ola Season Sale), the Ola Electric S1 X 2kWh model is being offered at Rs 49,999. This is a Rs 25,000 discount on actual pricing of Rs 75,001. Failure to inform ARAI about this new pricing policy prior to announcing the ‘BOSS’ promotional scheme is what has resulted in this questioning.
    ARAI now seeks clarity on this new price reduction and Ola Electric could face lawsuits if found guilty of violating regulatory guidelines. Ola Electric could also face the risk of losing financial benefits under the new subsidy scheme while Ministry of Heavy Industries (MHI) has also asked ARAI to confirm if Ola Electric is conforming to warranty terms and conditions and maintenance of service centers.
    Ola Electric’s Clarification
    Ola Electric has now provided clarification on the issue following inquiries from the Automotive Research Association of India (ARAI). Ola Electric received an email from ARAI on October 8, 2024, seeking confirmation about whether the S1 X 2kWh was being sold at the discounted price of Rs 49,999. In response, Ola Electric clarified that:
    The company has not permanently changed the price of the S1 X 2kWh model. The reduced price is part of a limited-time festive campaign, offering a general discount of Rs 5,000 to all customers, while a Rs 25,000 discount was applied only to select customers with limited inventory available.
    Supporting documents, including an invoice dated October 6, 2024, and a screenshot from their app, were provided to ARAI as evidence of this selective pricing. Additionally, Ola Electric noted that they had promptly supplied further documentation upon request from ARAI on October 9, 2024. To date, they have not received any further communication from the regulatory body.
    Addressing Stock Price Volatility
    Ola Electric also addressed the recent movement in its share price, clarifying that they are not aware of any undisclosed information that could explain the fluctuation. The company assured that all material events and information required under SEBI’s Listing Obligations and Disclosure Requirements have been duly disclosed to the relevant stock exchanges. Ola emphasized that the media report on the regulatory scrutiny has had no material impact on the company’s overall operations or financial health.
    Ola Electric Fall from Glory – Piling Complaints, Lawsuits, Falling Share Price
    Ola Electric, even as it is currently the top selling electric 2W maker in India, with a 27% market share as of September 2024 ended the month in the red. The company reported a 10.31% MoM de-growth. Sales fell to 24,679 units in the past month with competitors Bajaj, TVS and Ather all witnessing increased demand.
    Sales of Ola Electric have been fast dwindling as consumer issues mount. A series of complaints pour in with regard to deliveries substandard performance, service delays, documentation and mileage issues etc., with the National Consumer Helpline portal receiving nearly 10,000+ complaints to date. The complaints which pile in have even termed Ola service centers as ‘graveyards of electric scooters’ on social media. CCPA has also sought a response from Ola Electric within 15 days.
    Following these concerns and falling of share price to Rs 87.34, down 44.48% from a record high of Rs 157.53, on August 20, 2024, Ola Electric has promised stringent measures. Among these remedial measures are expansion of service networks by the end of this calendar year. AI relation maintenance program with Move OS 5 and augmented training to service personnel along with Hyper Service facilities and 1 day fix are also some of these measures being adopted. More

  • in

    Royal Enfield Bear 650 Scrambler Spied – Yellow and White Dual Tone Colour

    Royal Enfield Bear 650 ScramblerUpcoming Royal Enfield Interceptor Bear 650 Scram will have multiple distinctive features in comparison to RE’s existing 650cc bikes
    Royal Enfield is working on several new bikes across the 350cc, 450cc and 650cc segments. In the 650cc space, one of the most anticipated motorcycle launches is a new scrambler model. It will go on sale as the Interceptor Bear 650. The name was registered last year in 2023.
    Royal Enfield Interceptor Bear 650 Scram – Styling and features
    Test mules have been spotted frequently in recent months, indicating that the bike will be launched soon. Now, a fully undisguised, production-ready version has leaked online – donning dual tone paint scheme of yellow and white with black stripes on the fuel tank and blue coloured seat.
    Royal Enfield Bear 650 Scrambler
    A quick glance reveals that the new scrambler bike has the DNA of Interceptor 650. Some of the borrowed equipment includes the fuel tank and the tubular steel chassis. However, as the Interceptor Bear 650 will have relatively better off-roading capabilities, it gets a more robust suspension setup.
    One of the key differences is longer suspension travel, as compared to other 650cc bikes from Royal Enfield. Interceptor Bear 650 gets USD forks at front and dual rear shock absorbers. In comparison, the existing Interceptor 650 has telescopic front forks. The dual rear shock absorbers seem common, but the Bear 650 has a new spring/damper unit. It does not get the gas reservoirs in use with existing Interceptor 650.
    Royal Enfield Scrambler 650 Interceptor Bear Spied
    Interceptor Bear 650 is likely to be offered with 19-inch front and 17-inch rear wheels. These are shod with knobby profiled dual-purpose tubeless tyres. With a new suspension setup and tyres, it appears that Interceptor Bear 650 will have better off-roading capabilities. It should be able to handle mild off-road tracks with ease.
    New equipment
    Talking about some of the unique aspects of Interceptor Bear 650, the bike has a two-into-one exhaust setup. The perforated heat shield is functionally relevant and also enhances the bike’s rugged character. The merged exhaust setup is a first for a Royal Enfield bike. It will ensure an agile performance across both urban roads and off-road tracks. With the new exhaust, the bike will be lighter, which in turn will increase its power to weight ratio.
    Another feature that adds more dynamism is the oval, race-style number boards. Other key highlights of Interceptor Bear 650 include circular headlamp, all-LED lighting, circular rear-view mirrors, braced handlebar, tear-drop shaped fuel tank, new mudguards and an upswept exhaust. Overall, Royal Enfield Interceptor Bear 650 looks attractive with its minimalistic, neo-retro aesthetics. Tech kit will include a circular TFT instrument screen. Something similar to that of Himalayan 450 and Guerrilla 450. With the Royal Enfield app, users will be able to access various connected features including full map navigation.
    Royal Enfield Interceptor Bear 650 – Performance
    Engine will be the same as other 650cc Royal Enfield bikes. The 648cc, inline twin cylinder, 4-stroke, SOHC unit churns out 47 PS and 52.3 Nm. It is offered with a 6-speed gearbox. Overall ride dynamics could be relatively better, owing to the bike’s lightweight profile and distinct ergonomics. Debut is likely to take place at the EICMA 2024 next month.
    Source More

  • in

    KTM 390 ADV R Showcased In Camo Version Ahead Of Global Debut

    KTM 390 ADV R ShowcasedThe highlight equipment seen on KTM 390 ADV R are present on Hero Xpulse 200 4V Pro, but missing on Royal Enfield Himalayan 450
    Expanding its 390 lineup, KTM has been working on an updated 390 Adventure along with two entirely new models – 390 Enduro R and 390 SMC R. These motorcycles are expected to debut at EICMA show set to happen next month. Ahead of that, KTM has showcased a camo version of upcoming 390 Adventure R at a rally in South Dakota, USA. Let’s take a look.
    KTM 390 ADV R Showcased
    Ahead of their global debut, KTM has showcased two of their upcoming models during the 2024 KTM Adventure Rally happening in South Dakota, USA. One was a 1390 Adventure R, which is a top-tier product from the brand. But the most interesting for Indian market is 390 Adventure R, which is a more off-road worthy version of 390 Adventure.
    KTM 390 ADV R
    The just debuted 390 Adventure R is a more off-road-worthy version of 390 Adventure and looks like it gets a lot of equipment as seen in the images credited to Simon Cudby. It is not yet confirmed whether 390 Adventure R will be launched in India. Regardless, it will be manufactured in India by Bajaj Auto.
    What are the upgraded features?
    It is no secret that KTM is developing an update to 390 Adventure and has been testing in India for a very long time. However, this is a regular 390 Adventure which is focused to be a tourer and take on the rough stuff, when needed. This version is likely to come with 19-inch front and 17-inch rear wire-spoke rims.
    KTM 390 ADV R Adjustable Suspension, Handlebar Risers
    These wheels are wrapped with fatter tubeless dual-sport tyres to suit its dual nature. However, a more off-road-worthy version of 390 Adventure was spied testing abroad and it had a larger 21-inch front wheel and looked like it had an 18-inch rear wheel. These are wire-spoke units too and will probably get tubeless tyres. But they are skinnier and more off-road friendly.
    Where equipment is concerned, 390 Adventure R packs more than standard 390 Adventure. Apart from larger wheels and off-road tyres, we can see fully adjustable WP USD front forks. These will allow riders to adjust compression and rebound as per their needs. Not just that, rear suspension is adjustable too, as confirmed in the images.
    KTM 390 ADV R Side
    More features with R
    Other than these, we can see a few elements on 390 Adventure R, which are not seen on 390 Adventure test mules in India. These include round ORVMs, chunky knuckle guards along with handlebar risers. Looks like KTM has equipped 390 Adventure R to take on the Royal Enfield Himalayan, which currently lacks these aforementioned features. These features are seen present on Hero Xpulse 200 4V Pro, though.
    Where powertrains are concerned, KTM 390 ADV R will be equipped with the 399cc DOHC 4V liquid cooled single-cylinder engine with around 45 bhp and 40 Nm. It will be loaded with electronics and advanced instrumentation enabled with a 5-inch TFT unit with smartphone connectivity suite.
    KTM 390 ADV R More

  • in

    Hyundai To Launch 4 New EVs For Mass Market – All Under Rs 20 Lakhs

    2024 Hyundai Inster EVAlong with the Creta EV, Hyundai will also launch an Inster-based EV and possibly all-electric versions of Venue and Grand i10
    Hyundai has big plans for the Indian market, as evident with its massive IPO worth Rs 27,870 crore. In the coming years, Hyundai will be looking to boost growth by expanding its EV portfolio. Four new EVs for the mainstream market are planned, the first of which will be the Creta EV.
    Hyundai Creta EV – What to expect?
    In the compact SUV segment, electric options are already available such as Tata Curvv EV and MG ZS EV. Upon launch, Hyundai Creta EV will also take on BYD Atto 3 and upcoming Maruti eVX and its Toyota rebadged version. As evident with recent spy shots, Creta EV is largely the same as the ICE Creta in visual terms. Even the interiors and several of the features are common. This will help the Creta EV leverage the immense popularity and fan following associated with its ICE model.
    Hyundai Creta EV Interiors
    Similar looks and equipment list will also help reduce development and production cost. Creta EV is expected to be offered at a starting price of Rs 15-18 lakh. In comparison, the Curvv EV starts at Rs 17.49 lakh. The MG ZS EV is priced higher at Rs 18.98 lakh, whereas the BYD Atto 3 starts at Rs 24.99 lakh. It will be interesting to see what type of pricing strategy Maruti deploys for the upcoming eVX. The company has always focused on competitive pricing, something that could be applicable for its electric cars as well.
    In terms of performance, Creta EV is expected to get a 45-kWh battery pack. While certified range could be around 450 km, real-world range is estimated around 350 km. With an advanced regenerative braking system, users should be able to maximize the mileage from the EV. The electric motor onboard Creta EV will deliver 138 hp and 255 Nm.
    2024 Hyundai Inster EV
    Inster-based EV
    After Creta EV, Hyundai will be introducing a localized version of the Inster EV (codenamed HE1i) sold internationally. It will primarily challenge the bestselling Tata Punch EV.
    Hyundai Inster Interior
    Hyundai Inster-based EV is based on the company’s born-electric E-GMP (K) platform. It is expected to be available at showrooms in the second half of 2026. Competitive pricing can be expected for the Inster-based EV. Rival Punch EV is currently available with a festive offer, starting at Rs 9.99 lakh. Earlier, the starting price of Punch EV was Rs 10.99 lakh.
    Venue EV and Grand i10 EV
    While the Creta EV and Inster-based EV have been confirmed, Hyundai is also evaluating the possibility of electric versions of Venue and Grand i10 Nios. Venue EV will be based on the next-gen ICE model that will debut next year across global markets. The EV version of Venue will be launched sometime after that.
    2025 Hyundai Venue New-Gen
    Venue EV will be an important product for Hyundai, as it will directly challenge the bestselling Nexon EV (priced from Rs 12.5 lakh). Another key rival will be the Mahindra XUV300 EV. Similarly, the Grand i10 Nios-based EV will target Tata Tiago EV. The latter is currently available at a starting price of Rs 7.99 lakh.
    In addition to the domestic market, Hyundai will also aggressively target export markets. India will be developed as a key manufacturing hub for mass-market EVs. Initial production targets are around 26,000 units for Creta EV and 65,000 units for Inster-based EV. A significant percentage of the production will be allocated for export markets. Helping with increasing production capacity will be their new manufacturing plant in Talegaon near Pune.
    Source More

  • in

    2025 MG ZS EV Revealed – Radical New Design Over Next-Gen Astor

    New 2025 MG ZS EV Revealed as ES5When compared to the recently debuted new-gen Astor (ZS HEV), the new 2025 MG ZS EV (ES5) bears a unique appearance
    ZS EV is among the first electric cars in India to offer a larger realistic range and bring more buyers onto the EV train. This is the first electric offering from MG and has received one major facelift since launch. Now, the next-gen 2025 MG ZS EV has broken cover and looks significantly radical than it did before.
    2025 MG ZS EV Revealed
    There is a new generation of ZS EV, which the company is calling ES5. It may potentially launch in India, replacing the current model. ZS EV, currently on sale, and Astor look identical except for a closed-off grill on the former as opposed to that on the latter. This is to reduce costs by sharing most of their components and sheet metal.
    However, that isn’t the case with just debuted ES5 (ZS EV) and recently debuted ZS (Astor). That is because they seem to be two different vehicles. It has to be noted that Astor is known as ZS globally and ZS EV is an electric version of it called, well, ZS EV.
    The just debuted ES5 will replace MG’s ZS EV and is likely to be positioned as a new vehicle rather than being called ZS EV. Hence the deviation in naming strategy and vastly different design language and sheet metal used. More information will be revealed officially soon.
    New 2025 MG ZS EV – Front
    Dimensions are different too. For context, New ZS (Astor) measures 4.43m long, 1.81m wide and ES5 (ZS EV) measures 4.48m long and 1.85m wide. Just from the pictures, we can see that ES5 looks a lot more sportier, yet sophisticated in its own way.
    Radical new design
    It is yet to be confirmed if ES5 will take ZS EV name in the future or will be called ES5. Design-wise, we can see a complete departure from recently debuted ZS. We get split headlight design with triple LED DRL signature on top and headlamps positioned below them. ES5’s grill is of a closed design as it doesn’t need a lot of air flow.
    ORVMs on ES5 are new and so are the alloy wheels. ES5 also has different sheet metal than the recently debuted ZS and window line is unique as well. At the rear, ES5 gets a new and sporty spoiler design, while ZS’ appear plain. ES5 is the only one to get connected rear LED tail lights with a much sportier design.
    New 2025 MG ZS EV
    Powertrain details are not known yet. Speculations suggest the same electric underpinnings will be offered on ES5 as MG 4 electric hatchback. This means an LFP battery pack of up to 77 kWh promising around 520 km of range on a single charge. Powering the new ES5 (2025 MG ZS EV) might be either a 168 bhp motor, or a 201 bhp or even a 241 bhp unit. More

  • in

    Electric 2W Sales Sept 2024 – Ola, Bajaj, TVS, Ather, Hero, Revolt, Kinetic

    New TVS iQubeElectric two wheeler sales are reporting YoY growth, but the growth rate is not the same as a few months ago
    The two-wheeler segment continues to remain the biggest volume driver in the EV arena. Total retail sales in the past month stood at 90,007 units. This was a 40.45% YoY growth over 64,086 units sold in Sept 2023. MoM sales improved albeit marginally by 1.74% from 88,472 units sold in Aug 2024. The segment, now impacted by reduced subsidy, and declining demand has resulted in many players offering attractive discounts.
    Electric 2W Retail Sales Sept 2024 – Ola Leads
    Ola Electric, though in the midst of much controversy, has seen the highest sales in this segment. Sales stood at 24,679 units in Sept 2024 which was a 31.90% YoY growth from 18,711 units sold in Sept 2023. MoM sales however, declined by 10.31% from 27,517 units sold in Aug 2024. Consumer complaints have surged and Ola Electric faces several issues in terms service complaints and battery malfunctions.
    Electric 2W Sales Sep 2024 – YoY Comparison
    Bajaj Chetak numbers improved to 19,137 units which was a 169.27% YoY. This was over 7,107 units sold in Sept 2023. August 2024 sales had been at 16,706 units which related to a 14.53% MoM improvement. TVS iQube was No 3 in Sept 2024 with sales of 18,108 units. This related to a 15.96% YoY and 3.22% MoM growth. There had been 15,616 units and 17,543 units sold in Sept 2023 and Aug 2024 respectively.
    Ather Energy has seen the relatively new Rizta electric scooter boost its EV sales to 12,718 units in Sept 2024. This was a 76.76% YoY growth from 7,195 units sold in Sept 2023. MoM sales growth was at 17.43% when compared to 10,830 units sold in Aug 2024.
    Electric 2W Sales Sep 2024 – MoM Comparison
    A 708.63% YoY growth in electric 2W sales was reported by Hero MotoCorp Vida with 4,310 units sold last month. This was over 533 units sold in Sept 2024. MoM sales however, suffered a decline by 9.11% when compared to 4,710 unit sales of Aug 2024.
    Greaves Electric (Ampere) suffered a YoY and MoM decline in electric 2W sales last month. Sales figures dipped to 2,777 units, 23.14% decline from 3,613 units sold in Sept 2023. MoM sales also fell by 1.38% over 2,816 units sold in Aug 2024.
    BGauss Electric Posts YoY and MOM Growth
    BGauss Electric has seen sales improve tremendously in this segment. Sales stood at 1,237 units last month, a 32.30 growth from 935 units sold in Sept 2023. MoM sales were also higher by 11.44% when compared to 1,110 units sold in Aug 2024. Bounce was another electric 2W OEM that has been receiving added attention from buyers in India. Sales grew by 687.58% YoY and 52.34% MoM to 1,205 units in Sept 2024.
    Revolt electric 2W sales on the other hand declined by 21.46% YoY and 3.05% MoM to 699 units. The list also included Wardwizard Joy eBike (645 units), Kinetic Green (467 units), KLB Komaki (402 units), Quantum Energy (336 units) and Okaya (316 units) of which only Wardwizard and Okaya posted YoY sales decline., though each of these OEMs, with the exception of Kinetic Green, have suffered from lower MoM sales. Other electric 2W OEMs added 2,971 units to total sales, recording a 56.78% YoY and 12.36% MoM de-growth. More