Aurelia Butler

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    Ather EL Platform To Debut At Community Day 2025 – More Affordable EV

    2025 Ather 450S and 450XWith a sub-Rs 1 lakh price, Ather’s new affordable electric scooter can target a broader segment of users
    Most of the leading electric two-wheeler manufacturers like TVS, Bajaj, Ola and Hero MotoCorp have tasted success with their affordable electric scooters. Ather Energy too saw similar success with the Rizta, having recently crossed the 1 lakh sales milestone. Encouraged with these positive outcomes, Ather is working on an entirely new affordable EL electric scooter platform. It will be unveiled at the brand’s 2025 Community Day. Let’s check out the details.
    Ather new EL electric scooter platform – What to expect?
    While Ather’s performance-oriented electric scooters have gained a sizable fan following, volumes were relatively limited due to the high pricing. Aligning its strategy with evolving market preferences, Ather expanded its portfolio to include the family-oriented Rizta electric scooter. It is available at a starting price of Rs 99,999, making it the most affordable Ather electric scooter.
    With its accessible price point and cool design, Ather Rizta emerged a bestseller. However, the Rs 1 lakh price tag can still appear costly to a large segment of potential buyers. Especially when more affordable options are available. For example, the Ola S1X is priced at Rs 66,999. Vida too has affordable electric scooters such as the Vida V2 Lite (Rs 74,000) and Vida V2 Plus (85,300).
    Ather New Affordable Electric Scooter Headlight Design
    India’s top selling electric scooter TVS iQube is available at a starting price of Rs 94,434. With its new EL scooter platform, Ather may have plans to challenge these more accessible electric scooters. While not revealing any details, Ather said that its new EL platform will be versatile and cost-effective. It will allow the brand to strengthen its portfolio and suit the needs of budget-conscious customers.
    Ather will be unveiling the EL platform and some concept models based on the EL platform at its 2025 Community Day. The event is planned to be held in August. While official details are not available, Ather’s new EL platform could essentially focus on a no-frills approach. For example, it could use a lower-configured instrument console, missing out on some of the premium connectivity features. Ather EL platform-based electric scooter could also get fewer ride assist features.
    Ather Stack 7.0 to be launched
    At its 2025 Community Day, Ather will also debut its upgraded software stack – Ather Stack 7.0. Multiple new features are likely which will be available with the Rizta, 450S, Ather 450X and 450 Apex. In the last Ather Stack 6.0, the updates included a refreshed mobile app, live charging notifications, WhatsApp messages on dashboard, Alexa voice commands, live location sharing and ping my scooter.
    Ather Rizta
    To ensure a seamless experience for users, Ather is also developing its next-generation of Grid fast chargers. These will allow faster charging in a hassle-free manner. As of now, the Ather Grid chargers are designed to load 1.5 km / minute. Vida electric scooters can also be charged at these Ather Grid chargers. However, Vida scooter charging speed is slightly lower at 1.2 km / minute. More details about the new-gen Grid fast chargers are expected to be revealed at the 2025 Community Day. More

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    Modified Royal Enfield Meteor 350 With Gold Colour Highlights

    Modified Royal Enfield Meteor 350
    Royal Enfield motorcycles are quite popular in the custom bike universe as these retro classic cruisers act as perfect vanilla donor bikes. Custom bike builders then drizzle their artistic taste on them and carve out sensational looking builds that are befitting to customer needs and preferences.
    Neev Motorcycles is a renowned custom bike builder in the country and is known to have made quite a few masterpieces based on Royal Enfield donor bikes. Their recent creation is based on a Meteor 350 and has emerged as an absolute cake in this Red, Black and Gold shades along with a host of custom components. Let’s take a closer look.
    Modified Royal Enfield Meteor 350
    Modified Royal Enfield Meteor 35
    Considered as the spiritual successor of Thunderbird 350, Royal Enfield Meteor 350 is an important product in the company’s portfolio. It is a cruiser apt for long distances and supports the riders to embark on their journeys in comfort. Neev Motorcycles have carved out a custom build based on this machine.
    There are many changes on this bike. For starters, we can see a dark Red shade on this bike that sort of looks like an expensive wine. This is perfectly complemented by the overall Blacked-out finishes all across this build. For contrast, there is a lovely Gold shade in a glossy finish that is just icing on the cake.
    Modified Royal Enfield Meteor 350
    Fuel tank looks the same, but is finished in a Gold custom logo along with Gold pinstriping. Bike’s mainframe, subframe and engine compartment look identical to stock motorcycle. Custom elements include a custom belly pan, chopped front and rear fenders, muscular front fork covers, new handlebar and a custom fly screen.
    Custom elements
    This bike gets a single-seat setup. We can see a circular instrument cluster and Tripper screen beside each other, flanking this fly screen. Circular LED headlight is an aftermarket unit and so are its alloy wheels. These wheels are wrapped with high-profile tubeless type tyres with block pattern treads.
    Modified Royal Enfield Meteor 350
    Powering this modified Royal Enfield Meteor 350 is likely to be the same 349cc single-cylinder air-cooled SOHC 2V/cyl engine that is capable of generating close to 20 bhp of peak power and 27 Nm of peak torque, mated to a 5-speed gearbox.

    Also read – Royal Enfield Guerrilla 450 modified into a race bike
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    Honda Activa e Battery Rental Prices Reduced – New Concept Store In B’luru

    Honda Activa eHonda Motorcycles and Scooters India (HMSI) has finally entered the highly coveted electric scooter segment of the country. With the launch of Activa e and QC1, Honda became the first Japanese brand to enter India’s electric scooter segment, beating Suzuki and Yamaha to the finish line.
    However, it has not been smooth sailing for Honda as launch prices were considered quite high. Battery rental prices were also considered to be on the higher side, souring the deal further. Getting down to damage control, Honda has introduced a more affordable BaaS Lite Plan with Activa e that is expected to boost its appeal considerably. Let’s take a closer look.
    Honda Activa e Battery Rental Prices Reduced
    Activa e Battery Rental Prices
    Launched with a price tag between Rs 1.17 lakh and Rs 1.52 lakh (Ex-sh) in India, the Honda Activa e is a little late for the party. HMSI has ensured that their products stand out as it offers a battery swapping system that no mainstream electric scooter manufacturer is currently offering.
    It has to be noted that Activa e can’t be charged at home or at DC charging stations. Only battery swap. However, that turned out to be a costly affair for many as the base BaaS plans started from Rs 1,999 for up to 35 kWh per month in Basic Plan and Advance Plan commanded Rs 3,599 for up to 82 kWh per month.
    Honda EV Concept Store
    Now, Honda has launched a new Lite Plan for Activa e priced at Rs 678 for up to 20 kWh (all plan prices excluding GST). These BaaS plans are employed on top of the base price of Activa e and the battery swapping stations are maintained in the country by Honda Power Pack Energy India operating only in Bengaluru as of writing this article.
    Because of its removable batteries, Activa e has negligible boot space under the seat. It is powered by a mid-mounted motor sipping juice from two 1.5 kWh removable battery packs promising a range of 102 km on a single charge. There’s a 7-inch instrument cluster without touch support and all-LED lighting.
    Honda EV Concept Store
    New EV Concept Store in Bengaluru
    To boost sales of its electric scooters, HMSI has inaugurated an EV concept Store in Mantri Square Mall, Malleshwaram, Bengaluru. This new showroom showcases Honda’s profound advancements in land mobility and aviation, showcasing its remarkable journey and contribution to the world.
    Honda EV Concept Store
    At Product Display Zone, customers can get up close with Activa e and QC1 and even offers Kids Interaction Zone. Safe Tech Zone gives a detailed look at core components like battery, motor, charger and Mobile Power Pack, among other international flair including Honda Jet scale model, Honda Electric Racing Go-Kart, Honda Moto Compacto and others. More

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    2025 TVS Apache RTR 160 2V, RTR 180 Teased – Launch Soon

    2025 TVS Apache RTR 160 2V and RTR 180 TeasedIn addition to OBD-2B compliance, updated 2025 versions of TVS Apache RTR 160 2V and RTR 180 may also get fresh graphics and possibly some new features
    As part of its portfolio refresh, TVS Motor has already introduced updated versions of bikes like Apache RR 310 and Apache RTR 200 4V. Based on new teasers posted by the brand, the next in line to get the updates include the Apache RTR 160 2V and Apache RTR 180. Let’s see what new features could be introduced with these bikes.
    2025 TVS Apache RTR 160 2V and Apache RTR 180 – What to expect?
    Updated TVS Apache RTR 160 2V and Apache RTR 180 will comply with the stricter OBD2B emission standards. Engine performance is expected to remain largely unchanged. TVS Apache RTR 160 2V is equipped with a 159.7 cc, air cooled, SOHC engine that generates 16.04 PS and 13.85 Nm of peak torque in Sport mode. In Rain and Urban mode, power and torque output are reduced to 13.32 PS and 12.7 Nm.
    TVS Apache RTR 180 BS6
    TVS Apache RTR 160 2V has a top speed of 107 km in Sport mode and 97 km/h in Urban / Rain mode. The bike has a 5-speed gearbox. TVS Apache RTR 180 utilizes a 177.4 cc, oil cooled engine, mated to a 5-speed gearbox. In Sport mode, the engine delivers 17.02 PS and 15.5 Nm. These numbers reduce to 14.54 PS and 14.2 Nm in Urban / Rain mode. TVS Apache RTR 180 has a max speed of 113 km/h.
    Cosmetic touch-ups are likely for updated TVS Apache RTR 160 2V and Apache RTR 180. Some new colour options could be introduced, although the primary focus may be on introducing fresh graphics for both Apache bikes. TVS has already used a similar strategy for the 2025 Apache RTR 200 4V. Visually, both the RTR 160 2V and RTR 180 are expected to have a stronger road presence.
    TVS Apache RTR 160 Race Edition
    Core hardware to be retained
    TVS Apache RTR 160 2V and Apache RTR 180 utilize a double cradle frame, with telescopic front forks and dual rear shock absorbers. 17-inch wheels at both ends are common, although the RTR 180 uses a larger rear tyre for enhanced traction. RTR 160 has option of disc-drum and disc-disc, whereas RTR 180 has disc brakes at both ends.
    Single channel Super-Moto ABS is common for both bikes. Safety package also includes Roto Petal disc brakes and Remora tyres. Both bikes have TVS SmartXonnect™ connectivity suite with Bluetooth support and voice assist. Users can access a range of functions including call and SMS alerts. Other features include crash alert, race telemetry, lean angle mode, turn-by-turn navigation and low fuel warning.

    Pricing, Launch
    It remains to be seen if prices will be increased for the updated versions. It will depend on the type of updates introduced with these bikes. If updates are limited largely to a cosmetic refresh, the bikes may continue with the earlier pricing.
    As of now, TVS Apache RTR 160 2V is available at a starting price of Rs 1,21,420. The variant with SmartXonnect is priced at Rs 1.29 lakh. The top-spec Racing Edition has a price tag of Rs 1,30,520. In comparison, the TVS Apache RTR 180 is available in a single ‘RM Disc BT’ variant. It is priced at Rs 1.35 lakh. More

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    2026 Renault Kwid EV Spied Up Close – Tiago EV, Comet EV Rival

    2026 Renault Kwid EVRenault India has been in hibernation mode as the company continues to sell Kwid, Triber and Kiger since the discontinuation of Captur in 2020 and Duster in 2022. Even the trail of Kiger EV went cold after that one test mule spotted without any camouflage. Renault has been updating its portfolio in India to keep it fresh with some editions and even CNG options.
    The company is on the verge of launching a new Duster and Boreal in 2026 and Hybrid versions will follow later. In the meantime, there is one other vehicle with launch probability and that is Kwid EV. It has been spied testing in India multiple times and since 2024 and again recently. Let’s take a closer look.
    2026 Renault Kwid EV
    2026 Renault Kwid EV
    Unlike the Kiger EV test mules that never made another appearance, looks like we’re more likely to see frequent Renault Kwid EV test mules here onwards. The last time Renault Kwid EV test mules made an appearance, it was strapped on top of a flatbed truck. The latest test mule is rolling on its own wheels.
    Interestingly, these test mules get Red temporary registration plates from Tamil Nadu, which is where Renault Nissan Automotive India Pvt Ltd operates from. Where design is concerned, upcoming Renault Kwid EV looks almost identical to Dacia Spring EV that is currently on sale in global markets.
    Renault Kwid EV (Dacia Spring) – Rear
    It has to be noted that Dacia Spring EV and Renault Kwid EV (name not confirmed) are badge engineered vehicles. For India, Renault Kwid EV might pack the same 26.8 kWh battery pack promising 220 km on a single charge or come up with an Indian version of this vehicle with localized components for cost effectiveness.
    What to expect?
    As seen in these spy shots, we can see Renault Kwid EV’s rear right quarter. It is completely camouflaged and even has camouflage wrap stuck to its windows, which is interesting. Rear gets a windshield washer and wiper and parking sensors. Antenna is conventional type and not fancier shark fin type.
    Renault Kwid EV (Dacia Spring)
    Because of its budget nature, Kwid EV does not get alloy wheels, but wheel covers are present. Side turn indicators are on ORVMs and hence they could be electrically operated as well. Door handles are of pull-up type, in-keeping with its budget bracketing. Front design will be fairly plain with LED DRLs and there will be side body cladding to lend that SUV look.
    When launched, Renault Kwid EV will directly rival affordable EVs in India like Tata Tiago EV, MG Comet EV and Citroen eC3. One can expect a starting price tag of around Rs 7 lakh (Ex-sh). While the company has not confirmed it, Kwid EV might be launched in India by the end of 2025 or early 2026.
    Renault Kwid EV (Dacia Spring) – Interiors More

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    Tata Harrier EV Bharat NCAP Crash Test Results Out – Gets 5 Star Rating

    Tata Harrier EV Bharat NCAP Crash TestReaffirming their commitment to vehicular safety in cars sold in India, Tata Motors has come a long way. From India’s first 5 Star rated vehicle from Global NCAP (Tata Nexon), Tata Motors has embarked a remarkable journey in vehicular safety and the just launched Harrier EV is no different as it just achieves a prestigious 5 Star rating from Bharat NCAP.
    Tata Harrier EV Bharat NCAP
    Just yesterday, Tata Motors announced prices for all RWD variants of Harrier EV and today, we get the Bharat NCAP’s assessment results of Harrier EV’s crashworthiness. At this point of time, Tata Motors has become synonymous with vehicular safety and Harrier EV further accentuates that as it scores a full-fat 5 Star rating in Bharat NCAP crash tests.
    Harrier EV Bharat NCAP Crash Test
    Harrier EV is the company’s flagship electric SUV and it leaves no stones unturned where vehicular safety is concerned. Positioned on the acti.ev platform, Harrier EV is built from the ground up as an electric vehicle even though it shares its top hat with Harrier ICE. Bharat NCAP’s rigorous crash safety assessment puts Harrier EV’s crashworthiness to the test.
    Harrier EV Bharat NCAP Crash Test
    As revealed by Bharat NCAP, the tested variant was Harrier EV Empowered 75 kWh and Empowered 75 kWh AWD (QWD as per Tata). It is a two-row SUV with maximum seating capacity of five occupants. The weight of crash tested vehicle was rated at 2,574 kg and these ratings are applicable to all variants of Harrier EV.
    Harrier EV Bharat NCAP Crash Test
    5 Star Ratings
    Speaking of ratings, Harrier EV has scored 5 Star rating in both Adult Occupant Protection and Child Occupant Protection tests. Harrier EV comes with front and side airbags as standard along with ESC (Electronic Stability Control), seat belt reminders on all seats, belt pretensioners and load limiters on front seats and ISOFIX child seat mounts in the rear.
    Harrier EV Bharat NCAP Crash Test
    In Adult Occupant Protection tests, Harrier EV scored 32 / 32 points as it secured 16 / 16 points in both frontal offset deformable barrier test and side movable deformable barrier test. All the assessment points of a human body in front seats showed ‘Good’ protection with Green zones all the way.
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    In Child Occupant Protection tests, Harrier EV scored 45 / 49 points as it secured 24 / 24 points in dynamic score, 12 / 12 points in CRS installation score and 9 / 13 points in vehicle assessment score. It has to be noted that the immediate rival of Tata Harrier EV, Mahindra XEV 9e, has also scored identical results with 5 Star rating in both Adult and Child occupant protection. More

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    Royal Enfield Guerrilla 450 Modified Into A Custom Race Bike

    Royal Enfield Guerrilla 450 ModifiedWhen Royal Enfield launched Himalayan 450, it was a completely new direction for the brand. For the first time, we saw a Royal Enfield motorcycle with modern technology and features, which were then translated on to Guerrilla 450, a Roadster bike. Now, XTR Pepo has customized Guerrilla 450 into a race bike with a tonne of upgrades. Let’s take a closer look.
    Royal Enfield Guerrilla 450 Modified
    There is always a special place for Royal Enfield motorcycles in the custom bike world. There are a lot of custom bike builders across the world who have carved out stunning masterpieces based on Royal Enfield bikes. Renowned custom bike builder Pepo Rosell running XTR Pepo has tastefully modified a Guerrilla 450 into a custom race bike.
    Royal Enfield Guerrilla 450 Modified – GRR 450
    Called GRR 450, this build was showcased at Wheels and Waves Festival 2025 in Biarritz, France. This build was commissioned by Royal Enfield Factory with a Guerrilla 450 Roadster as the donor bike. Looking at the build details on XTR Pepo website, it is clear that this is a massive project and involves a lot of work, but the spectacular results speak for themselves.
    The main change is in the bodywork, which is completely custom. We can see a sculpted fuel tank, quarter fairing, belly pan and other elements made of fiberglass. Then we have XTR carbon fibre rear mudguard and tyre hugger along with a single-seat setup and an integrated pillion seat cowl with a backrest.
    GRR 450 by XTR Pepo
    Then there are the premium components and changes to GRR 450. This build is based on a modified mainframe and a custom subframe along with Aprilia RS 660’s rear swingarm. The front end is heavily customized with a shorter trail angle, low-set clip-on handlebars, repositioned Tripper Dash TFT cluster and fully adjustable USD front forks from Aprilia RSV 1000.
    Premium components
    Rear suspension is handled by Nitrox mono-shock setup and foot pegs are significantly more rear-set than what they are in Guerrilla 450. We can also see a major overhaul in the braking department as GRR 450 gets dual disc brake setup at the front with Discacciati callipers along with a single disc setup at the rear with Brembo callipers.
    GRR 450 by XTR Pepo
    Royal Enfield Guerrilla 450 modified into the GRR 450 runs on Dyman forged aluminium 17-inch alloy wheels at both ends, wrapped with Continental ContiSport Attack 2 tyres (120/70 front and 160/60 rear). Other notable elements include a lighter Lithium based battery, aluminium sprockets and S&P CNC machined triple clamp.
    While it is not confirmed, XTR Pepo might have made some changes to the powertrain to eke out more performance when compared to the stock 40 bhp and 40 Nm figures. We can see a new carbon fibre airbox and a titanium custom exhaust from SPARK. The motorcycle is finished in race-inspired colourway to lend a sporty look. More

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    Vinfast VF 6 and VF 7 Showcased At A Chennai Mall Ahead Of India Launch

    Vinfast VF 6 and VF 7 Showcased In a Mall In ChennaiVietnamese carmaker Vinfast will begin its India innings with the VF 6 and VF 7 electric SUVs, followed by other models such as Vinfast VF e34 and VF 3
    Demonstrating strong confidence in the Indian market, Vinfast has committed an investment of USD 2 billion. Production is set to commence in July at the company’s plant in Thoothukudi, Tamil Nadu. Vinfast will start with the VF 6 and VF 7 electric SUVs, which will be launched later this year. Ahead of that, these SUVs have been showcased at a Chennai mall, as seen in pictures from automotive enthusiast Manoj Prabakaran. Let’s check out the details.
    Vinfast VF 6 – Key features, specs
    Details about the Vinfast VF 6 for the Indian market haven’t been revealed. However, it is likely to be a close match with the Vinfast VF 6 sold in other Asian markets. Vinfast VF 6 in Vietnam is available in two variants VF 6 Eco and VF 6 Plus. Dimensionally, the crossover SUV is 4,241 mm in length.
    Vinfast VF 6 Showcased
    Both variants utilize a 59.6 kWh battery pack, offering a range of 480 km (Eco) and 460 km (Plus), respectively (NEDC). Power and torque output is 130 kW (177 PS) / 250 Nm (Eco) and 150 kW (204 PS) / 310 Nm (Plus). A number of features are common for both VF 6 and VF 7. For example, users can access drive modes of Eco, Normal and Sport. Both variants have sporty LED lighting.
    Vinfast VF 6 Showcased
    Also common are features like a head-up display (HUD), 12.9-inch touchscreen infotainment system, 8-way power adjustable driver seat, artificial leather upholstery and Android Auto and Apple CarPlay. Many safety features are also common across VF 6 and VF 7. It includes traction control, ESC, hill start assist, blind spot warning, tyre pressure monitoring system. Also, traffic sign recognition, lane keeping assist, automatic emergency braking and 360° camera.
    Vinfast VF 6 Showcased
    Vinfast VF 7 – Key features, specs
    VF 7 is larger (as available in Vietnam), measuring 4,545 in length and having a wheelbase of 2,840 mm. Three variants are on offer – Eco, Plus and Plus AWD. While the Eco variant has a 59.6 kWh battery pack, the other two are equipped with a larger 75.6 kWh battery pack. Range is 498 km with the Eco and 496 km with the VF 7 Plus AWD variant (NEDC). Vinfast will reveal the range of the Plus variant at a later date.
    Vinfast VF 7 Showcased
    VF 7 Eco variant generates 130 kW (177 PS) and 250 Nm of torque. In comparison, the VF 7 Plus variant has output of 150 kW (204 PS) / 310 Nm. For best performance, users can choose the Plus AWD variant of VF 7, which generates 260 kW (354 PS) and 500 Nm of peak torque.
    Vinfast VF 7 Showcased
    Key features of Vinfast VF 7 include electric foldable and adjustable ORVMs, auto dimming IRVM, fine dust filter, rear AC vents and 8-speaker sound system. VF 7 has smart control features such as geofencing, operating time limits, online entertainment, navigation, OTA updates, voice commands, virtual assistant and gaming options.
    Vinfast VF 7 Showcased
    Pricing will be one of the key factors that will determine Vinfast’s success in the Indian EV market. In Vietnam, the Vinfast VF 6 is available at a starting price of 689,000,000 VND or Rs 22.72 lakh. The Vinfast VF 7 starts at 799,000,000 VND, which is approximately Rs 26.35 lakh.
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