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    2025 TVS Apache ADV Spied For First Time – New 300cc Engine, Alloys, USD Forks

    2025 TVS Apache ADV SpiedTVS Motor is gearing up to make its debut in the adventure motorcycle segment with the Apache RTX 300
    Spied for the first time, new TVS Apache ADV showcases a promising design and features that position it as a strong contender against rivals like KTM 390 Adventure and Royal Enfield Himalayan. It is likely to be powered by TVS’s newly unveiled 300cc RT-XD4 engine, marking a significant technological leap for the company.
    2025 TVS Apache ADV Spied For First Time
    The latest spy shots reveal several design and feature highlights of the Apache RTX 310. The motorcycle sports a semi-fairing design with a prominent tower-like instrument cluster, likely housing a full-color TFT display offering navigation, music controls, and advanced ride analytics. The instrument cluster looks similar to the one seen on Raider 125. Not the vertical one on other TVS and BMW bikes based on the 310 platform.
    2025 TVS Apache ADV Spied
    2025 TVS Apache ADV is equipped with alloy wheels, possibly sized at 19 inches for the front and 17 inches for the rear, catering to both on- and off-road adventures. Other notable elements include a rugged luggage rack, an upswept twin-shooter exhaust, and a scooped-out seat for enhanced rider comfort. Additionally, handlebar-mounted ORVM stalks and auxiliary lights, which might be standard fitment considering TVS’s feature-rich offerings, add to its practicality.
    The suspension system features USD telescopic front forks, with two finishes observed in the test mules—gold and black—indicating the possibility of multiple variants with differing features. A tall windscreen, side guards, and a well-thought-out seating arrangement further enhance its touring capability.
    2025 TVS Apache ADV Spied
    2025 TVS Apache ADV Engine
    At the heart of the Apache RTX 310 lies TVS’s newly developed 300cc RT-XD4 engine. This engine, unveiled at MotoSoul 2024, is a testament to the company’s advanced engineering. The RT-XD4 engine produces 35.45 PS of power and 28.5 Nm of torque, paired with a 6-speed gearbox and a slipper clutch.
    2025 TVS Apache ADV Spied
    With features like dual overhead camshafts, a dual cooling jacket cylinder head, and a split chamber crankcase with a dual oil pump, the engine is designed for linear torque delivery and improved fuel efficiency. This new platform also supports better cooling, reduced oil consumption, and compliance with future emission norms.
    Compared to the previous 312.12cc engine, the RT-XD4 engine likely to offer nearly identical performance numbers but promises better refinement, enhanced cooling, and potentially lighter weight, resulting in improved power-to-weight ratio and overall riding dynamics. These advancements make it ideal for adventure touring applications.
    2025 TVS Apache ADV Spied
    The TVS Apache RTX 300 is expected to hit the market by mid-2025. With its cutting-edge features, rugged design, and the advanced RT-XD4 engine, it is set to strengthen TVS Motor’s presence in the premium motorcycle segment and offer a compelling choice for adventure enthusiasts.

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    EV Batteries Of Today Likely To Have 40% Longer Life Than Expected – Stanford University Report

    2024 Hyundai Ioniq 5
    While the general perception is that battery life spans fall short of claims, the new study suggests the opposite might be true
    For EV buyers, battery maintenance and potential replacement is a major worry. To fix that, EV manufacturers are heavily focused on developing advanced battery packs that can last longer. However, a new study reveals that such efforts may not actually be needed since battery packs can last much longer in real-world scenarios.
    EV batteries can have 40% longer lifespan
    In a new study conducted by scientists at the SLAC-Stanford Battery Center, it has been found that EV battery packs could have a longer lifespan. The study points to a flaw in existing battery testing methodologies that fail to replicate real-world scenarios. The results of the study seem counterintuitive, as general perception is that real-world scenarios will reduce battery life. But the study claims that the opposite might actually be true.
    The primary issue pointed out in the study is that battery testing is done based on constant discharge and recharge cycles. However, this may not be the case in a real-world driving scenario. That’s why battery life cycles determined in a laboratory environment may not indicate the real lifespan of EV battery packs. Real-life driving can have various variations instead of a constant discharge and recharge cycle.
    For Example, both short trips and long-distance touring may be involved. There are stops at the traffic signals and EVs spend significant time in the parking area. Things like regenerative braking and acceleration also impact battery lifespan. Charging behaviour also varies, with some users choosing daily charging whereas others might only charge once or twice a week. All these factors are not accounted for when testing EV battery packs in a laboratory environment.
    EV battery testing with real-world scenarios
    To get a more realistic estimate of EV battery lifespan, four distinct discharge profiles were created based on driving data. These were then used to test 92 commercially produced lithium-ion battery packs. The tests were conducted for a period of more than two years. The findings of the study were quite surprising and counter intuitive. For example, it was found that sharp, short acceleration can actually reduce battery degradation. Similarly, regenerative braking was found to improve the life of EV battery packs.
    However, factors like extreme heat and cold conditions can also impact battery lifespan. In this study, the temperature was set at a constant 35° Celsius. It is likely that more robust studies will be needed to get a more realistic view of EV battery lifespan.
    Findings of this study could encourage more people to shift to EVs. The data gathered can also help OEMs to improve their battery management software. It can help optimize battery lifespan in real-world driving conditions. Battery warranty could be extended, which will ensure greater peace of mind for EV buyers.
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    Yamaha NMax 125 Tech Max Debuts – New Features With 4.2″ TFT Screen

    New NMax 125 Tech MaxWhile it is not known if Yamaha NMax 125 Tech Max will launch in India, it is expected to be showcased at the 2025 Bharat Mobility Expo
    For international markets, Yamaha has introduced the NMax 125 Tech Max top-end variant. As the name suggests, the new NMax 125 variant gets multiple tech upgrades. However, the engine and other mechanical parts are the same as earlier. For India, however, Yamaha seems to be considering launching NMax 155.
    Yamaha NMax 125 Tech Max – What’s new?
    One of the key updates for Yamaha NMax 125 Tech MAX is a new 4.2-inch TFT dash. It is a full colour unit and allows users to choose from multiple theme options. Depending on the country, the new 4.2-inch TFT dash has Garmin navigation. It is free in countries where Garmin navigation is available.
    2025 NMax 125 Tech Max
    With the use of a Link Card Module, users can access a wide range of connectivity features. For example, users can view email, answer incoming calls, access SMS notification and listen to music. Another tech upgrade is a Type-C USB charger, located inside the front left pocket. On the right side, users can access a weatherproof storage compartment with a lid.
    This can be used to store small items such as wallets, keys, etc. User experience has been further improved with a keyless ignition system. As long as the smart key is with the user, there won’t be any hassle of inserting a physical key to start the scooter. The smart keyless ignition system also works to reduce the risk of theft.
    2025 NMax 125 Tech Max
    Yamaha NMax 125 Tech MAX complies with Euro5+ emission regulations. The carbon footprint is further reduced with the Start & Stop system. The engine automatically shuts off when the scooter comes to a standstill. To start the scooter, users just need to disengage the brake and twist the throttle. For those who care about the environment, Yamaha NMax 125 Tech MAX can be a preferred option.
    Improved styling
    Yamaha NMax 125 Tech Max scooter is better suited for everyday needs. For example, it gets a large 25-litres of underseat storage. This can be used to store a full-size helmet or other items such as groceries, gym gear or personal equipment. New Yamaha NMax 125 Tech Max scooter gets dual-eye projector headlights. These are accompanied with LED position lamps and integrated flashers.
    New NMax 125 Tech Max
    They combine to achieve a sporty and dominating presence for the scooter. At the rear, the scooter has stylish LED taillight and integrated LED flashers. For a premium feel, the NMax 125 Tech Max scooter gets black leather seat with gold stitching and suede detailing. Yamaha is offering two exclusive colour options for the scooter – Ceramic Grey and Dark Magma.
    No performance boost
    NMax 125 Tech Max scooter will be using the same 125cc engine, as offered with the standard NMax 125 variant. The liquid-cooled, SOHC, 4V/cylinder engine generates 12.2 PS and 11.2 Nm of torque. It is paired with a V-belt automatic gearbox. NMax 125 Tech Max has a telescopic fork at the front and unit swing rear suspension. Both ends have 13-inch wheels, with disc brakes. The scooter has a wet weight of 132 kg and a ground clearance of 125 mm. Seat height of 770 mm ensures optimal control and handling. More

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    New KTM 390 Adventure Bookings Start (Unofficially) Ahead Of Launch

    KTM 390 EnduroWith KTM 390 Adventure S and 390 Enduro R, Team Orange is catering to enthusiasts and thrill seekers, upgrading from small bikes
    With Indian automotive market maturing, there is an increased demand for premium motorcycles. Majority of these buyers are upgrading from smaller motorcycles and aspire to own something bigger. KTM is among the OEMs catering to this niche with its 390 lineup, which just got larger with the introduction of new 390 Adventure and 390 Enduro.
    Team Orange recently unveiled 390 Adventure S and 390 Enduro R at India Bike Week event held in Goa. These motorcycles are set to launch soon and the company is expected to announce prices in January 2024. Ahead of launch, a few dealerships have commenced unofficial bookings for these motorcycles.
    New KTM 390 Adventure Bookings
    Ahead of an official launch, few KTM dealerships has commenced unofficial bookings of the upcoming 390 Adventure S and 390 Enduro R. These motorcycles are expected to launch soon and are some of the hottest and most anticipated launches in India.
    With excitement levels high among buyers, many would be tempted to reserve one for themselves. Getting a highly anticipated motorcycle at the earliest after launch is a nice thing. KTM dealers understand this and are accepting unofficial bookings from enthusiasts. Booking amount will vary as it is dealer-level.
    India-spec KTM 390 Adventure S, 390 Enduro R
    390 Adventure is getting a major generational update with all-new powertrains, improved cycle parts and revamped features. That said, 390 Enduro is the new motorcycle lineup from KTM which debuted at 2024 EICMA alongside 390 SMC. At India Bike Week in Goa, KTM showcased 390 Adventure S and 390 Enduro R.
    The new 390 Adventure S needs no introduction as it is the successor of a well-established adventure tourer. The S variant is below the fully loaded R variant but is well kitted out than X variant. 390 Enduro, however, is being introduced for the first time and was showcased only with the top-spec R variant.
    What do they pack?
    Depending on market reception, KTM might introduce more variants in the future for both Adventure and Enduro offerings. 390 Adventure S Adventure Tourer packs 21-inch front and 17-inch rear wire-spoke wheels, non-adjustable suspension, a tall windscreen, a semi-fairing for wind protection and a TFT instrument screen.
    390 Adventure S
    390 Enduro R, on the other hand, gets a smaller instrument screen, 21-inch front and 18-inch rear wire-spoke wheels, fully adjustable suspension with more suspension travel and is a proper off-roader. Both bikes are powered by the same 399cc liquid-cooled motor with 45 bhp and 40 Nm, mated to a 6-speed gearbox. More

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    New Electric Pickup Truck Spied Testing – Rivals Tata Ace EV, Mahindra Zeo EV

    New Electric Pickup Truck SpiedThe long and flat load bay without wheel well intrusions might be the main strength of this new electric pickup truck from Montra
    The electric SCV (Small Commercial Vehicle) segment currently has fewer offerings. Notable among them are Tata Motors’ Ace EV and Mahindra’s just-launched ZEO EV with BaaS (Battery as a Service) program. There seems to be a new entrant into this segment, as suggested by the recent spy shots of an electric SCV, there seems to be a new player.
    Said spy shots look like they’re from Chennai, Tamil Nadu. From the looks of it, this particular test mule seems to be from Montra Electric by Murugappa Group, a subsidiary of TII (Tube Investments of India). This particular test mule from Montra Electric looks close to production as well. Let’s take a look.
    New Electric Pickup Truck
    New Electric Pickup Truck Spied
    India as an automotive market, is quite young. Electric vehicle penetration is still in the infant stages and most of the effort is reflected in electric 2W PV and CV segments. While electric 3W rickshaws and cargo trucks have caught on, there are fewer electric 4W PVs on sale in India. OEMs are taking notice of this.
    Montra Electric has commenced testing of their maiden electric SCV and it has quite a few likeable qualities about it. For starters, the design is boxy, which lends strong road presence. At the same time, it allows for better space optimisation for the cabin. Speaking of the cabin, we could not get a sneak peek through these spy shots.
    Montra Electric SCV
    Just like the exteriors, Montra has covered interiors with camouflage too. Notable elements on the outside include dual windshield wipers, manually adjustable IRVMs, low-set headlights, steel wheels, and a pronounced cavity near the bumper that acts as a step for the ingress and egress of occupants.
    What to expect?
    Behind this cabin, we have a rather long load bay. Considering the comercial applications, this is a flat load bay without any wheel well intrusions. Large load bay is likely to be the main strength of this un-named electric pickup truck from Montra. We can also see a sliding window in this cabin’s rear.
    Montra Electric SCV
    Montra Electric is among the electric mobility providers in India looking at the coveted eSCVs. The company already has an established electric 3W portfolio in the form of Super Auto. This electric auto rickshaw has an attractive design and spacious cabin. It boasts a ‘Super Range’ of up to 203 km (claimed).
    There’s a good probability that Montra’s upcoming electric SCV might share most of its powertrains and features from Super Auto. Features like fully digital instrument cluster and Super Drive Modes might make their way on this new electric pickup truck too. Launch could be in 2025.
    Montra Electric SCV More

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    2W Retail Sales Nov 2024 – Hero, Honda, TVS, Bajaj, Suzuki, Yamaha, Ola, Ather

    Hero PassionThe two-wheeler segment showed off strong performance as it recorded double-digit YoY, MoM and YTD growth in retail sales
    As announced by the Federation of Automobile Dealers Associations (FADA), the two-wheeler segment has recorded outstanding sales growth. Sales in Nov 2024 improved by 26.67% to 26,15,953 units which was well over the 20,65,095 units sold in October 2024. The segment also posted a 15.80% YoY improvement from 22,58,970 units sold in Nov 2023.
    Taking into account year-to-date sales, the 2W segment saw a 14.04% growth to 1,32,59,744 units in the FY25 period. There had been 1,16,27,404 units sold in the FY24 period. New model launches, both in the ICE and electric segment have played a vital part in these improved sales.
    2W Retail Sales Nov 2024 – Hero at No. 1
    Hero MotoCorp topped sales charts once again with 9,15,468 units in Nov 2024. This was a marked growth from 8,04,498 units sold in Nov 2023. The company commanded a 35% market share. The new Hero Mavrick 440 and the upcoming Vida V2 line-up is set to contribute to efficient sales in the coming months.
    At No. 2, Honda also saw its sales surge considerably in the past month. Sales stood at 6,54,564 units in Nov 2024, well over 5,15,128 units sales in Nov 2023. Market share also went up to 25.02% from 22.80% YoY.
    2W Retail Sales Nov 2024
    TVS Motor has seen retail sales at 4,20,990 units in Nov 2023. This was a 54,094 unit volume increase from 3,66,896 unit sales in Nov 2023. 2025 TVS Ronin has just been unveiled. This upcoming model, prices of which are yet to be revealed, will be a direct rival to the RE Hunter 350 in its segment.
    Retail sales of Bajaj Auto also went up dramatically to 3,04,221 units in Nov 2024 from 2,75,119 units sold in Nov 2023. Bajaj Auto is now gearing up for the launch of the new Chetak electric scooter later this month. It promises to come with several feature updates over its current version along with improvements in range.
    Royal Enfield too saw its retail sales improve to 93,530 units in Nov 2024 from 83,974 unit sales in Nov 2023. Suzuki sales were at 91,972 units, up from 83,121 units on a YoY basis while Yamaha sales went up to 68,266 units in the past month, well over 64,133 units sold in Nov 2023.
    Ola Electric Sales Decline YoY
    In the electric two-wheeler segment, even as Ola Electric recorded sales well over that of Ather, the company suffered a YoY decline as retail sales stood at 29,204 units in Nov 2024. This was down from 30,073 units sold in Nov 2023. In Nov, the company also teased a new electric scooter with a removable battery which will be directed towards the last-mile mobility sector.
    Ather sales grew to 12,760 units last month. This was a significant improvement over 9,342 unit sales of Nov 2023. Greaves sales saw a marginal YoY growth to 4,469 units in Nov 2024 from 4,416 units sold in Nov 2023. Classic Legends too saw its sales increase to 4,148 units from 3,316 units YoY.
    Piaggio sales, on the other hand, declined to 3,154 units in the past month from 3,475 units sold in the same month last year. Other two-wheeler OEMs, which also included some EV makers, added 13,207 units to total retail sales last month. This was a marked decline from 15,479 units sold in Nov 2023. More

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    Hyundai Set To Strengthen India’s Fast Charging Infra With 600 New EV Chargers

    Hyundai India EV ChargersOut of these 600 planned EV chargers, 100 will be installed in Tamil Nadu state – 10 of which will, will be functional by 2024 end
    Electric vehicle penetration is becoming more and more evident in the mainstream segment. This encourages car manufacturers to invest in electric mobility and offer compelling EVs to the masses. However, launching EVs is only half the story. The other half is offering a robust fast charging infrastructure.
    Among India’s leading car manufacturers, HMIL (Hyundai Motor India Ltd), has recognised a need to establish a robust EV charging infra in the Asian subcontinent. The company is committing to empower Indian EV buyers by installing up to 600 electric vehicle fast chargers across the country in the next 7 years.
    Hyundai India EV Chargers
    Ahead of the launch of its maiden mass-market electric car, Hyundai India has announced the launch of 600 electric vehicle fast charging stations across the country. The company is set to install these EV chargers across major cities and highways through strategic partnerships with partners like ChargeZone, Statiq and Shell India.
    The goal is to empower Indian EV buyers (irrespective of car brand) to facilitate long-distance travelling with EVs. A hassle-free Kashmir to Kanyakumari drive is what the company aims as an example to illustrate their vision. HMIL’s myHyundai app will play a crucial role in this ambitious move of offering a robust 24X7 charging station network.
    Hyundai Ioniq 5
    Key locations for the charging stations include all major cities in India like Gurugram, Mumbai, Pune, Bengaluru, Hyderabad, Ahmedabad, and Chennai. All major highways like Delhi-Chandigarh, Delhi-Jaipur, Hyderabad-Vijayawada, Mumbai-Pune, Mumbai-Surat, Bengaluru-Pune, and Pune-Kolhapur will benefit from this move.
    Time Frame
    HMIL’s 600 charging stations planned for India will come equipped with multiple configurations like DC 150 kW + DC 60 kW + DC 30 kW or DC 150 kW + DC 30 kW + DC 60 kW. The company aims to install up to 600 EV charging stations across India within the next 7 years. By the end of this month, Hyundai promises to have 50 stations functional.
    Out of these 600 charging stations planned, Hyundai will install 100 within the Tamil Nadu state as part of an MoU signed between HMIL and Tamil Nadu Government. 10 of these 100 will be operational by the end of this month.
    Upcoming Hyundai Creta EV Spied
    Statement from HMIL
    Commenting on the announcement, Mr. Jae Wan Ryu, Function Head – Corporate Planning, HMIL said, “The EV market is expected to grow robustly by 2030. Studies conducted by HMIL have highlighted that customers are apprehensive about driving their EVs for long- distance commutes on highways due to a lack of charging infrastructure.
    Keeping this in mind, HMIL has taken the initiative of installing fast EV chargers on key highways, in addition to major cities. With access to HMC’s global EV and battery technology, HMIL is well-positioned to build a comprehensive EV ecosystem in India. We are actively investing in infrastructure to support the expected growth in demand for electric vehicles.” More

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    Maruti eVitara Electric SUV Spied Up Close Ahead Of Launch In 2025

    New Maruti eVitara Electric SUVIn India, Maruti eVitara electric SUV will rival the likes of Tata Curvv EV, Mahindra BE 6, MG ZS EV and upcoming Hyundai Creta EV
    In the Indian market, Maruti Suzuki used to be known as the maker of small and budget cars. The company has successfully expanded its portfolio with many premium offerings. All of Maruti’s vehicles are either ICE or self-charging Hybrids. Now, the company is gearing up to launch its maiden electric vehicle.
    eVitara debuted recently in Milan, Italy. Testing of this electric vehicle is underway and makes periodic appearances. The most recent spy shots are credited to automotive enthusiast Ankit who spotted this test mule in Gurgaon, Haryana. Let’s take a closer look at Suzuki’s maiden electric vehicle for the world and India.
    Maruti Suzuki eVitara Spied
    Maruti eVitara Electric SUV Spied
    The strategic partnership between Suzuki and Toyota has proved fruitful for both brands with multiple badge-engineered products between them. Suzuki’s new EV, which has been under rigorous testing, will spawn a Toyota counterpart, as confirmed by the brand recently. Production will commence in Spring 2025 and launch will happen by Summer 2025.
    The recent spy shots show eVitara from up close. It was draped in camouflage like previous test mules. We can see that it has quite a bit of road presence, owing to its strong design elements. Design-wise, recently debuted eVitara shows a striking sporty fascia with a closed-off grill and some aggression.
    Maruti eVitara Electric SUV Spied
    Headlights with LED DRLs look muscular with a strong presence and bumper includes an opening in the shape of a bull bar along with fog lights. Charging port is positioned at the front left quarter panel. Suzuki seems to be aiming for a slightly sloping roofline, which is in-trend currently in India and major global markets.
    It will measure 4,275 mm in length, 1,800 mm in width, 1,635 mm in width and has a 2,700 mm long wheelbase. Minimum ground clearance is 180 mm and it has a kerb weight between 1,702 kg and 1,899 kg. There’s disc brakes on all four wheels. Wheel sizes will go up to 19-inches, but the one spotted in India had 18-inch wheels wrapped with 225/55 MRF Wanderer tyres.
    Maruti Suzuki eVitara Spied
    Specs & Features
    Suzuki eVitara and its Toyota counterpart will come equipped with either a 49 kWh or 61 kWh battery pack, with the latter offering dual-motor 4WD option. Based on a born-electric platform, eVitara is primarily a FWD vehicle packing up to a 172 bhp and 189 Nm motor. With 61 kWh variant, 4WD variant brings a rear electric motor with 64 bhp at the rear for a total system output of 181 bhp and 300 Nm.
    Interiors have been revealed too, featuring a floating centre console, vertically oriented AC vents, a 2-spoke steering wheel, dual free-standing screens with the latest connectivity suite and high-quality materials, as it is a global product. Speculations suggest Suzuki eVitara will launch in Europe and Japan first and then in markets like India, even though part of the production happens here. A similar strategy to Jimny lifestyle SUV. More