More stories

  • in

    Toyota C-HR Revealed for Europe, Adopts Prius’ Hybrid Powertrains

    Toyota pulled back the veil on a new generation of the C-HR, ushering in a new era for the small crossover in Europe.It features three hybrid powertrain choices including a new plug-in-hybrid option. Unfortunately for American fans of the C-HR, the new version won’t make it stateside, as Toyota killed off the C-HR in the U.S. after the 2022 model year. The Toyota C-HR subcompact crossover is entering a new generation, and it has been redesigned from tip to tail. The new car shows up looking like a dead ringer for Toyota’s Prologue concept from December. The production vehicle sports 20-inch wheels and more reasonable-looking taillights than the concept, but many of the playful style choices—such as available two-tone paint—remain. Unfortunately for U.S. buyers the C-HR was discontinued for America after the 2022 model year, and this new one is only destined for Europe.ToyotaThe new C-HR will come with three powertrain options, and all are hybrids. A front-wheel-drive-only hybrid with a 1.8-liter gas engine will sit at the bottom of the lineup, with a more powerful 2.0-liter hybrid setup offering either front- or all-wheel drive. A new plug-in-hybrid configuration, also with the 2.0-liter gas engine, sits at the top. These powertrains appear to be lifted directly from the Prius, which should imbue the new C-HR with quite a bit more power than before, especially the 2.0-liter options. For reference, the U.S.-spec Prius hybrid’s standard 2.0-liter setup produces 194 horsepower and the plug-in-hybrid Prius Prime has 220 hp. We’d expect the C-HR PHEV’s electric-only range to be similar to the Prius Prime’s, too, which is rated at 39 miles.Related StoriesThe interior of the new generation is just as overhauled as the exterior. A new 12.3-inch digital gauge cluster sits behind the steering wheel. An 8.0-, or 12.3-inch center infotainment touchscreen sit beside the gauge cluster. The new infotainment system adds a virtual assistant and wireless connections for Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. Additionally, the new system can provide EV range information and local charging locations. ToyotaToyota is ushering in the new car with a set of special edition models, headlined by a GR Sport edition. The GR adds a G-mesh pattern for the grille, 20-inch alloy wheels, with GR badging on the exterior, and embossed to the headrests. This content is imported from poll. You may be able to find the same content in another format, or you may be able to find more information, at their web site.Associate News EditorJack Fitzgerald’s love for cars stems from his as yet unshakable addiction to Formula 1. After a brief stint as a detailer for a local dealership group in college, he knew he needed a more permanent way to drive all the new cars he couldn’t afford and decided to pursue a career in auto writing. By hounding his college professors at the University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee, he was able to travel Wisconsin seeking out stories in the auto world before landing his dream job at Car and Driver. His new goal is to delay the inevitable demise of his 2010 Volkswagen Golf. More

  • in

    BMW Shows First Glimpse of M5 Wagon Hybrid that Could Pack 738 HP

    BMW has teased the next-generation M5, specifically the wagon model that’s called the M5 Touring.We expect the M5 to have the same plug-in-hybrid V-8 powertrain as the XM, which produces up to 738 hp in the Label Red version.The exciting rumor from earlier this year is that BMW will bring the wagon version to the U.S.A new generation of the BMW M5 is enticing enough on its own, but news of an M5 wagon is guaranteed to send car enthusiasts into a tizzy. These new teaser photos show the upcoming M5 Touring for the first time, and we’re particularly intrigued given the rumor that the longroof M5 could come to the U.S.BMWFrom what we can see in these photos of the camouflaged prototype, the new M5 takes the latest G60-generation 5-series’ bodywork and adds flared fenders and an aggressive-looking rear bumper with quad exhaust tips. It appears to have a staggered wheel and tire setup with wider Michelin Pilot Sport 5 rubber in the rear.More on Future and Past BMWsBMW has confirmed that the M5 will come with a hybrid powertrain, and we’re expecting it to have a similar setup as the BMW XM performance SUV. That model combines a twin-turbo 4.4-liter V-8 engine with electric motors for 738 horsepower and 738 pound-feet of torque in the top Label Red configuration. We’re hearing that the M5 will only be offered with this high-output setup, rather than the 644-hp tune in the “base” XM. It’s also slated to add rear-wheel steering, optional 22-inch wheels, and a wide variety of drive modes that control everything from the steering to the regenerative braking levels.BMWOnly two generations of the M5 so far have even offered a Touring variant, the E34 and the V-10–powered E60/E61, and neither was sold in the U.S. But it wouldn’t be unprecedented for BMW to bring it here given that Audi sells the RS6 Avant here and Mercedes has offered the AMG E63 wagon on our shores for some time now.We’re hoping to hear something soon about the new M5 sedan, as the 2024 5-series is already out, but more news on the wagon version will likely have to wait. BMW says it won’t be released until next year, but we’re eagerly awaiting its arrival and hope to hear further confirmation that it will be sold in America at some point in the near future.This content is imported from poll. You may be able to find the same content in another format, or you may be able to find more information, at their web site.Senior EditorDespite being raised on a steady diet of base-model Hondas and Toyotas—or perhaps because of it—Joey Capparella nonetheless cultivated an obsession for the automotive industry throughout his childhood in Nashville, Tennessee. He found a way to write about cars for the school newspaper during his college years at Rice University, which eventually led him to move to Ann Arbor, Michigan, for his first professional auto-writing gig at Automobile Magazine. He has been part of the Car and Driver team since 2016 and now lives in New York City.   More

  • in

    500cc+ Motorcycles Sales May 2023 – RE 650, Ninja, Hayabusa, Z900

    kawasaki Z900For the month of May 2023, 500cc+ motorcycles sales chart saw quite some decline, especially when compared to numbers from April 2023Big bike sales for the month May 2023 took a steep dive with respect to sales. We say this because all the big bikes added, accounted for 1978 units in total last month, which was not enough to surpass 3,278 units sold in April 2023. Even though there was a 19.37% YoY growth with 321 units volume gain, big bike sales went down by 1,300 units MoM.The main reason for this might be due to loss in sales with heavy hitters like Royal Enfield 650 Twins and Super Meteor 650. The former sold 970 units with a 28.52% YoY decline and sales halved MoM as opposed to 1,865 units. A month before, Super Meteor 650 sold 1,139 units, which is reduced to 838 units in May 2023. Still, Royal Enfield maintained 91.41% market share.500cc+ Motorcycles Sales May 2023India’s most affordable 4-cylinder bike Kawasaki Z900 took 3rd spot with 63 units and saw 50% YoY growth. Versys 650 and Ninja 1000 SX sold 14 units each with the same 7.69% YoY growth. Triumph Tiger 900 saw 13 units sold with 8.33% YoY growth. India’s most affordable 200bhp bike Kawasaki ZX-10R saw a 40% YoY decline by selling 9 units only.Kawasaki Z650 RS neo-retro offering saw 200% YoY growth (highest in this list) by selling 6 units over 2 last year. Other motorcycles that sold 6 units are Triumph Speed Twin 900, Harley-Davidson Sportster S and Kawasaki Versys 1000. Triumph Rocket III has the largest production-engine in the world and sold 4 units last month with 33.33% YoY growth.500cc+ Motorcycle Sales ChartHarley-Davidson Nightster and Triumph Speed Twin 1200 also sold 4 units each, but there was no positive growth associated with them. Kawasaki Z650, Suzuki Hayabusa, Triumph Bonneville T120, and Harley-Davidson all sold 3 units each. Kawasaki Z650 was the only one that balanced sales, while others registered a decline in sales.Honda sold 0 big bikes againTriumph Tiger 1200 and Harley-Davidson Roadking sold 2 units each. Triumph saw 92.86% YoY decline in sales. Kawasaki Vulcan S, Z H2, Triumph Street Scrambler, Bonneville Speedmaster and Harley-Davidson Road Glide all sold 1 unit each. There is a big list of motorcycles that didn’t sell even a single motorcycle in May 2023.They are Kawasaki Ninja 650, W800, Honda Africa Twin, CBR 650R, Goldwing, Harley-Davidson Fat Boy 114, Pan America, Street Glide, Heritage Classic, 883 Iron, Standard, Triumph Tiger 660, Trident 660, Bonneville T100, Street Twin, Street Triple, Bonnelille Bobber, Speed Triple and Suzuki V-Strom 650.Surprisingly, Honda sold 0 units again and has been the case for quite some time now. Being one of the world’s largest motorcycle manufacturers, Honda should revamp its product big bike lineup in India and re-structure pricing as well. More

  • in

    KTM Sales, Exports May 2023 – Duke, RC, 125, 200, 250, 390 ADV

    Image – MotobikeKTM India has posted a YoY and MoM growth in domestic sales while exports fell on both counts
    KTM India, which has a current lineup of the Duke 125, RC 125, Duke 200, RC 200, Duke 250, ADV 250, Duke 390, RC 390 and ADV 390, have been seeing outstanding sales in domestic markets while exports have been dull. This has resulted in an overall de-growth for the company both in terms of YoY and MoM sales.
    Earlier this month, the company launched the 2023 KTM 200 Duke while there is also the new KTM Duke 390 to look forward to which is expected to launch by the upcoming festive season.
    KTM Domestic Sales May 2023
    Total domestic sales stood at 5,117 units in May 2023. This was a YoY growth of 68.99 percent from 3,028 units sold in May 2022 relating to a 2,089 unit volume growth. MoM sales improved marginally by 0.77 percent from 5,078 units sold in April 2023.
    It was KTM 200 (Duke and RC) that led the sales charts last month with 2,324 units sold, up 27.41 percent over 1,824 units sold in May 2022 to currently command a 45.42 percent share. MoM sales however, decreased by 13.06 percent from 2,673 units sold in April 2023 when share had stood at 52.64 percent.
    KTM India sales May 2023
    KTM 250 range also posted a YoY growth of 115.58 percent to 1,384 units in May 2023 from 642 units sold in May 2022 but MoM sales dipped by 1.42 percent or by 20 units from 1,404 units sold in April 2023.
    Increased demand was also seen for the KTM 390 range with 1,117 units sold last month, 100 percent over 558 units sold in May 2023 while it was a 33.29 percent MoM growth over 838 units sold in April 2023. Sales of KTM 125 increased by 7200 percent from just 4 units sold in May 2022 to 292 units in the past month while it was also a 79.14 percent MoM growth from 163 units sold in April 2023.
    KTM Exports May 2023
    KTM exports in May 2023 fell significantly. It was a 38.45 percent YoY de-growth to 3,932 units shipped in May 2023 from 6,388 units exported in May 2022 relating to a 2,456 unit volume. MoM exports also fell by 40.88 percent from 6,651 units shipped in April 2023 with a 2,719 unit dip in volumes. Every model in the company lineup, except for the KTM 200 has seen lower exports.
    KTM exports May 2023
    In export markets, it was the KTM 390 that amassed most sales at 1,099 units in May 2023, despite a YoY and MoM decline. Exports dipped 54.19 percent YoY and 71.17 percent MoM, taking share percentage down to 27.95 percent from 57.31 percent held in April 2023.
    Of the KTM200 range, sales increased 12.94 percent YoY and 4.29 percent MoM to 2,190 units. There had been 1,939 units exported in May 2022 and 2,100 units shipped in April 2023. Share improved from 31.57 percent to 55.70 percent MoM. KTM India exports of its 250 (464 units) and 125 (179 units) range slipped by 39.43 percent and 86.06 percent YoY and by 13.91 percent and 10.50 percent MoM respectively.
    KTM India total – May 2023
    KTM Total Sales May 2023
    Lower exports brought down total sales figures for KTM India in May 2023. Total sales dipped 3.90 percent YoY to 9,049 units in the past month from 9,416 units sold in May 2022. MoM sales also fell by 22.85 percent from 11,729 units sold in April 2023.
    KTM200 sales stood at 4,514 units, up 19.96 percent from 3,763 units sold in May 2022 but dipped 5.43 percent from 4,773 units sold in April 2023. KTM 390 however posted both a 25.06 percent YoY and 52.34 percent MoM decline in total sales to 2,216 units.
    Of the 250 range, total sales improved by 31.25 percent to 1,848 units YoY but fell 4.89 percent MoM while KTM 125 saw a 63.43 percent dip in sales to 471 units from 1,288 units sold in May 2022. MoM sales performance improved by 29.75 percent over 363 units sold in April 2023. More

  • in

    Shah Rukh Khan Regrets Not Wearing Helmet 31 Years Ago

    Shar Rukh Khan in Deewana, 1992On Twitter, Shah Rukh Khan regretted not wearing a helmet in the movie Deewana, released in 1992, 31 years agoHuman beings as a whole are not impervious to some of their actions done while they were young. It is only when we grow up and mature, our perspectives change. Then we look back and question ourselves why we did what we did. A similar feeling swept past B-Town A-lister Shah Rukh Khan’s mind recently.A Twitter user Pratt (@thatladka) posted a clip from the movie Deewana released in 1992. In that clip, we can see a young Shah Rukh Khan on a Yamaha ADV motorcycle accompanied by a bunch of his friends in the movie, who were riding Yamaha RX100s, Hero Honda CD100s and Royal Enfield motorcycles singing Koi Na Koi Chahiye song.Shah Rukh Khan regrets not wearing a helmetPratt asks Shah Rukh Khan (@iamsrk) “Sir how do you feel when you watch this epic entry of yourself. It’s been 31 years and it still gives us chills”. He expresses his awe to this entry scene from Deewana in which none of the riders and pillions, including Shah Rukh Khan wore a helmet.Shah Rukh Khan replied responsibly, “Should have worn a helmet”. People often forget that the scene that they see on big screens is staged and said road is temporarily converted to a set with the permission of responsible authorities and that’s how they can get away from not wearing a helmet.Should have worn a helmet!!! https://t.co/pFr5hbNdXg— Shah Rukh Khan (@iamsrk) June 25, 2023Instead of understanding this, people tend to recreate the same on roads that are not only dangerous but illegal as well. We should all strive to be responsible citizens and wear mandated helmets at all times.Is it time for movie stars to wear helmets in the movies too?A big fat yes. Movie directors tend to overlook what kind of an impact celebrity actions in movies make on general consensus. If you take the most iconic motorcycle chase scene from Mission Impossible Rogue Nation involving a bunch of BMW S1000RRs, Tom Cruise doesn’t wear a helmet in that scene.In this movie, after crashing his car, Tom Cruise picks up a motorcycle from a dead/injured accomplice of the antagonist. The character didn’t care enough to pick up the helmet of this fallen rider, who was just beside where he picked up sunglasses and motorcycle.This attitude of moviemakers should probably change in the future and show responsible and safe motorcycle commutes. Helmet is often one of the most crucial safety elements for a rider at any speed. Manufacturers like TVS are developing helmet detection systems and Ola Electric is going a step ahead and developing a system mandating helmets. More

  • in

    New Hero Maxi Scooter Spied Testing – Aerox 155 Rival?

    New Hero Maxi Scooter SpiedConsidering the maxi-scooter’s brawny proportions, the 163cc engine from Xtreme 160R seems like a perfect matchWith recent launch of Xtreme 160R 4V and upcoming Karizma fully-faired bike, it is evident that Hero MotoCorp has stepped up focus on premium segment. The company seems to be following a similar strategy for its scooter portfolio as well. Earlier this month, a design patent had revealed details about Hero’s new maxi-scooter.In the latest development, a maxi-scooter in camouflage has been spotted near Hero MotoCorp’s R&D centre in Jaipur. It appears to be largely the same as the scooter revealed in the design patent. As the test mule looks near-production ready, it won’t be surprising to see its launch around festive season or by end of this year. Hat tip to automotive enthusiast Pushpender for sharing these exclusive spy shots.New Hero Maxi Scooter SpiedHero maxi-scooter featuresSome of the key highlights of Hero’s first-ever maxi-scooter include split headlamp setup, angular front fascia, trendy rear view mirrors and sharp turn indicators. An all-LED lighting setup is likely for the scooter. It can be seen with a stubby upswept exhaust. Side panels have sharp design elements, which help achieve a sporty profile for the scooter.Raked design of the stepped seat ensures a sporty stance, all while allowing optimal control and handling across busy city streets. The single-piece seat seems comfortable for both rider and pillion. The test mule is missing the rear rack that was seen in the design patent. It is likely that the rear rack will be offered as an accessory. The scooter is equipped with an ergonomically placed handlebar.New Hero Maxi Scooter SpiedAlthough not clear in the images, it is likely that Hero’s new maxi-scooter will have a fully digital instrument console. It could get telematics features, accessible via Hero Connect mobile app. Some of the key telematics features could include ignition alert, SoS alert, accident/crash alert, topple alert, over-speed alert, theft alert, battery removal alert, geofence alert and remote immobilization.Hero maxi-scooter performance, specsHero’s maxi-scooter could be a rival to Yamaha Aerox 155. In that case, it could borrow the 163 cc, air-cooled engine from Xtreme 160R. It generates 15 bhp of max power and 14 Nm of peak torque. Some tweaks could be performed to align the engine with the specific needs of the scooter. For reference, Aerox 155 is equipped with a 155cc, liquid cooled engine. It makes 15 PS and 13.9 Nm.Hero new maxi-scooter has telescopic forks at front and a single-sided monoshock unit at rear. It gets a disc brake at front. Single-channel ABS could be offered as standard. One of the most notable features is the large alloy wheels, which appear to be 14-inch units. Large wheels not only improve street presence, but also offer smoother and safer rides across bad patches.To push sales, Hero could offer its first-ever maxi-scooter at an affordable price. While Aerox 155 is available at a starting price of Rs 1.43 lakh, Hero maxi scooter could be launched at around Rs 1.20 lakh (ex.sh). More

  • in

    2023 Hero Xtreme 160R 4V Review – Defying Expectations, Embracing Adventure

    New Hero Xtreme 160R 4V ReviewA Close Look at the Upgraded Design and Performance – 2023 Hero Xtreme 160R 4V ReviewIntroducing the 2023 Hero Xtreme 160R 4V – A motorcycle that has the potential to emerge as the true champion of its segment. With a design that exudes a hint of Bajaj-inspired flair, this upgraded version of the Xtreme 160R boasts an impressive addition of two extra valves. A key differentiator that sets it apart from its predecessor.Hero has meticulously engineered its efforts into crafting a package that not only meets but exceeds the expectations of today’s discerning buyers in this competitive segment. Let’s delve into the intricate details of this bike and explore if it outshines its rivals.New Hero Xtreme 160R 4V Review2023 Hero Xtreme 160R 4V: Embodying Style and Functionality for the Gen Z BuyerThe Hero Xtreme 160R 4V immediately captivates with its dynamic design, which elegantly blends elements reminiscent of Bajaj motorcycles. When bathed in sunlight, its contours come alive, leaving an impression.In a conversation with a Gen Z buyer looking for a bike in the 150cc segment, the focus is on finding a bike with a cool and trendy appearance. The customer seeks a bike with vibrant and funky colours, muscular craftsmanship, and a sporty appeal. They desire a headlamp that resembles those found on higher-displacement bikes, a kickass belly pan, and inverted forks that are visibly large, creating the illusion of a more powerful cc machine approaching.New Hero Xtreme 160R 4V ReviewThey are drawn to a thick exhaust, similar to the Dominar, and insist on a split seat design that looks striking, with a significant step where they can position themselves. Additionally, they express the need for a digital instrument console in a dark theme, complete with Bluetooth connectivity to a smartphone app, and a built-in USB charger for convenient device charging.Performance is paramount to this buyer. They aspire to overtake bikes like the Dukes and Pulsars. However, they also emphasise the importance of a soft suspension that can absorb the impact of speed breakers and potholes commonly found on Indian roads. Vibration-free riding, even at top speeds, is a non-negotiable requirement. Price is a significant factor for them, as they are willing to wait for the best deal that offers the desired features and performance.Xtreme 160R 4V Races Ahead with its Impressive Power Output2023 Hero Xtreme 4V is a motorcycle that combines such real-world expectations into a competitive and affordable package, especially in its base variant.The inclusion of the “4V” moniker, which gained popularity with the Xpulse 200, is expected to work in favour of the Xtreme 160R. Hero has made significant engineering changes to the engine, including the addition of two valves and an oil cooler to manage increased performance. Redesigned crankcase and cylinder block, along with a revamped gearbox, contribute to improved engine responsiveness and seamless gear shifts. During our test ride, gearshifts were exceptionally smooth and precise.New Hero Xtreme 160R 4V ReviewThe 2023 Xtreme 160R 4V boasts impressive performance specifications, with a maximum power output of 16.9 hp at 8,500 rpm, surpassing its predecessor by 1.7 hp (around 10%). This results in noticeably quicker acceleration without compromising overall top speed. Hero MotoCorp claims it has the fastest acceleration in its segment, and although we couldn’t objectively verify this, we can confirm that the acceleration felt notably aggressive. The bike maintained its power effortlessly as it surged past 80 kmph, accompanied by minimal vibrations that were more of a bark than a bite.Mastering the Handling Track and Conquering Different Road SurfacesOur test ride took place at Hero’s Global Centre of Innovation and Technology in Jaipur, featuring a 16-kilometre-long test track with 45 different road surfaces designed to replicate real-world riding conditions. While we couldn’t experience all of them, our brief encounter with the Xtreme 160R 4V on the handling track, as well as on the plain and hilly surfaces, left us with the impression that it is one of the most comfortable bikes available. It is particularly suitable for riders with lower-back and spinal issues, often recommended by doctors just like the Honda Unicorn.New Hero Xtreme 160R 4V ReviewThe suspension, particularly at the rear, is exceptionally soft, hindering aggressive cornering and quick manoeuvres. While we didn’t experiment with different settings, the 7-step adjustable Showa monoshock at the rear allows for customization if a slightly stiffer setup is desired. On the other hand, the 37mm KYB USD front fork is well-tuned. The braking performance is adequate, although the bike’s aesthetics and muscular appearance may create expectations of a more aggressive bite. Nevertheless, the bike remains nimble and easy to adapt to. The stock tyres provide sufficient grip on dry, sunny roads. Xtreme 160R 4V Ownership: The Perfect Blend of Affordability and ExcitementMoving on to areas of improvement, there are a few notable points. The mirrors could offer a wider field of vision, although they do not suffer from excessive vibration. The front brake could have smoother operation, avoiding the false sensation of braking occurring prematurely. The placement and angle of the USB port could be more conducive to preventing cable bending and potential failure over time. The instrument cluster, while impressive in the dark, suffers from low brightness during daylight, making it challenging to read under sunlight. Additionally, the awkward tilt angle of the cluster exacerbates the issue. These issues should be addressed to fully utilize the cluster’s well-designed features.New Hero Xtreme 160R 4V Review2023 Hero Xtreme 160R 4V is an impressive motorcycle that caters to both young riders and commuters. It exudes a fresh and captivating appeal, featuring a vibrant and refined engine that operates without any noticeable vibrations. With its comprehensive range of features and amenities, owning and riding this bike is a delightful experience. To put it simply, it’s the kind of motorcycle that would make even conventional dads look cool in the eyes of their kids and be embraced by the younger generation. Hero has truly hit the mark with this one!What sets it apart – Key Features, Specifications, and PricingPerformance:163cc 4 Valve Air-Oil cooled BS-VI engineMaximum power output: 16.9 Ps @ 8500 RPMPeak torque:14.6Nm @ 6500 rpmBest-in-class acceleration: 0-60 km/h in 4.41 secondsFastest 160cc motorcycle in its segment (as per internal testing)Handling and Control:37mm dia inverted Front Fork Suspension by KYB (Pro Variant)7-step Pre-Load adjustable rear suspensionSharp handling and maneuverabilityLowest-in-class kerb weight: 144 kg (Base & Connected 2.0 Variant), 145 kg (Pro Variant)Powerful petal disc brakesDesign:Muscular and sporty design languageRobotic Headlamp with fairing wingletsChiseled fuel tank and under cowlInterchangeable seats (single and split options)Ride Comfort:Well-balanced ergonomicsIncreased legroom for rider and pillionLowered handlebarComfortable pillion split seat optionAmple split rear gripsTech-Laden Features:All-LED package for position lamp, low beam, high beam, tail lamp, signature tail lamp, and winkersInverted speedometer with over 20 features on displayBluetooth-enabled features such as call and SMS alerts, turn-by-turn navigation, find my vehicle, etc.Hero Connect 2.0:Vehicle health and safety notificationsRemote immobilization for enhanced securityGeo Fence feature for geographical area alertsSOS alert, low fuel alert, over-speeding alert, topple alert, etc.In-app navigation services and real-time vehicle trackingCaptivating Colours:Standard (Single Ch ABS with Front & Rear Disc): Blazing Sports Red, Matt Slate BlackConnected 2.0 (Single Ch ABS With Front & Rear Disc): Matt Slate BlackPro (Single Ch ABS With Front & Rear Disc, USD Forks, Split Seat): Neon Shooting Star and Matt Slate Black.Pricing (Ex-Showroom, Delhi):Standard Variant: INR 127,300/-Connected 2.0 Variant: INR 132,800/-Pro Variant: INR 136,500/- More

  • in

    Traffic Cops’ Jobs Changing as Some Cities Ban Minor Traffic Stops

    As cars, drivers, and road rules change, law enforcement strategies must also adjust.In Ann Arbor, Michigan, the city council will vote next month to change the rules surrounding the reasons a police officer can use to pull someone over to reduce racial profiling.In Washington, D.C., the city will send text and mail messages to high-risk drivers, warning them that “Someone in your household is driving dangerously.”American roads are changing. Whether it’s the challenging public discussion about the best way for police officers to conduct traffic stops or the rise in traffic fatalities during the pandemic, things are different out there. That’s why, from Michigan to New York, strategies to make roads safer for everyone are changing, too.In Michigan, the Ann Arbor City Council voted 9–0 earlier this month to propose a new law that would reduce police officers’ ability to pull someone over for “minor offenses.” The proposed Driving Equality Ordinance draws a line between routine traffic stops and eventual incarceration outcomes for Black, Indigenous, and People of Color (BIPOC). The council’s proposed solution is to take away an officer’s right to pull someone over for minor offenses such as a cracked windshield.Interesting New Ways to Get a TicketThe stakes for these pretextual stops can also be higher than being locked up, too. “The harms of traffic stops are not equally felt,” the proposal reads. “More than a quarter of people killed in traffic stops are Black, despite Black people making up only 12 percent of the population.” The proposal also notes that stops for minor offenses “are disproportionately carried out against people of color and return negligible public safety benefits.””When you get pulled over, you have to wonder if I did something wrong or am I being profiled,” the founding chairperson of Ann Arbor’s Independent Police Oversight Commission, Lisa Jackson, told local ABC 7 News.A final vote on the proposed law is scheduled for early July. Bigger cities, including Pittsburgh and Philadelphia, have passed similar legislation in recent years, as Bloomberg has reported.Unwelcome Texts from the CityOver in Washington, D.C., the city’s Department of Transportation has a different idea to reduce the number of traffic deaths, crashes, and other traffic violations. In partnership with The Lab @ D.C. (a part of the city government), the city will send text messages and physical mail to drivers who have had some sort of traffic citation or violation. The customized messages are meant to get drivers to think about their actions and will reference details about the driver’s vehicle, the violations it has been connected to in the past and a warning that the vehicle is at higher risk of a crash than others because of this history.According to the Washington Post, one of the mailers includes the text: “Someone in your household is driving dangerously. Your vehicle has a history of speeding and/or running red lights and this is placing the drivers and passengers of your vehicle at a high risk of getting into a crash.”The city created a list of 100,000 high-risk drivers, and a subset of these people will get the text or mail messages (or both). Drivers can opt out of the messages after the first one. During the 12-month program, the DOT and The Lab will then see which category of drivers, if any, see any noticeable improvements.”The goal is to create awareness, regardless of whether or not anybody has signed off for specific alerts,” The Lab director Sam Quinney told the Post.Contributing EditorSebastian Blanco has been writing about electric vehicles, hybrids, and hydrogen cars since 2006. His articles and car reviews have appeared in the New York Times, Automotive News, Reuters, SAE, Autoblog, InsideEVs, Trucks.com, Car Talk, and other outlets. His first green-car media event was the launch of the Tesla Roadster, and since then he has been tracking the shift away from gasoline-powered vehicles and discovering the new technology’s importance not just for the auto industry, but for the world as a whole. Throw in the recent shift to autonomous vehicles, and there are more interesting changes happening now than most people can wrap their heads around. You can find him on Twitter or, on good days, behind the wheel of a new EV.  More