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    in Motor News

    BMW EVs Could Become More Fun with Customizable Performance Traits

    BMW has submitted a patent with the United States Patent and Trademark Office for adjustable speed and acceleration curves, as first reported by Carbuzz. The system would let drivers customize throttle response and behavior under acceleration, even making it so that car could imitate the characteristics of a gas-powered vehicle.BMW calls it “a fun interactive option” and describes the customizable graphs as having “an emotional character.”These days, most cars can be tailored to different conditions through an array of drive modes, but a new patent filing from BMW suggests the next wave of electric vehicles may become even more customizable. As first reported by Carbuzz, BMW is developing a system that will let drivers create their ideal driving experience by adjusting specific elements of the drivetrain, such as acceleration curves and throttle mapping. The Driver Is the ProgrammerWhile the drive modes currently found across the automotive landscape can alter these same parameters, the amount of adjustability is typically predetermined by the programming of each mode. For example, Sport mode will intensify the throttle response in a specific way determined by the automaker, while Comfort mode will dial it back, but without any adjustability between the two preset values. BMWThe proposed BMW system, however, turns the driver into the programmer, in a sense, allowing for minute adjustments of each element irrespective of any preset drive mode. This level of personalization is only feasible with electric motors, where—as BMW explains in the patent filing—”… the development of power … can … be set much more finely and in particular can be varied much more flexibly than in the case of internal combustion engines.”The customized propulsion settings revolve around two adjustable graphs: a speed curve and an acceleration curve. The former allows mapping of the throttle position to directly correspond to speed. For example, the driver could set it so that at 30 percent throttle, the car will go 40 mph. The acceleration curve, on the other hand, equates throttle input to torque output. In this case, a driver could set 50 percent throttle to result in 50 percent acceleration, in affect determining how responsive the throttle pedal is by adjusting how aggressively the car responds to inputs.BMWThe patent suggests that BMW would offer preset graphs, with linear or exponential curves, but also the ability to customize the curves by dragging different points up and down. The two curves would combined to create a vast spectrum of unique behaviors, with throttle inputs controlling both the overall speed and how aggressively the vehicle accelerates. An Exercise to Increase Engagement BMW appears to view this system as a way to make high-performance EVs more engaging. The patent explains the customizable graphs “can have an emotional character and delight the vehicle user,” describing the system as “a fun interactive option” and that “technology-minded vehicle users will especially enjoy this.” The system would offer an alternative to the way many EVs currently drive, where torque and power delivery feels linear and immediate. The system would allow for speed and acceleration to build gradually, and the adjustable curves could even allow drivers to set up their cars to imitate the acceleration curves of gas-powered cars. It is unclear if and when BMW intends to implement this system, but it could appear on the quad-motor M division prototype under development and/or on the rumored 1000-hp i5 M coming later this decade.More Electric BMW M CarsThis 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 EditorCaleb Miller began blogging about cars at 13 years old, and he realized his dream of writing for a car magazine after graduating from Carnegie Mellon University and joining the Car and Driver team. He loves quirky and obscure autos, aiming to one day own something bizarre like a Nissan S-Cargo, and is an avid motorsports fan. More

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    2024 Range Rover Sport SV Shown Clowning Around Before May 31 Debut

    This content is imported from youTube. 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.New Range Rover Sport SV | Coming 31st May 2023Watch onYouTube IconYouTube IconLand Rover is set to reveal the 2024 Range Rover Sport SV on May 31.A teaser video posted to the official Land Rover YouTube page shows the Sport SV clowning around.The company promises the new SV will be “the fastest, most dynamic and technologically advanced Range Rover Sport ever.” Mark your calendars. Land Rover is set to reveal the 2024 Range Rover Sport SV on May 31. The company released a short teaser video on its official YouTube channel marking the announcement. Based on the video’s description, it looks like the upcoming SV will be a replacement for the current Range Rover Sport SVR. The Range Rover Sport has always been about wrapping performance and luxury into a single SUV package. The new SV looks to follow that trend, with extra emphasis on the sportiness. While storming through the sandy dunes surrounding Dubai, the driver in the video can be seen switching to “SV Mode” before showing a paddle shifter illuminated in red. The prominence of the paddle shifter is a recurring theme in the short teaser. As is the playfulness of a sliding Range Rover, which is shown repeatedly in the video.The supercharged 5.0-liter V-8 from the Supercharged and SVR models already makes 518 horsepower and 575 pound-feet of torque in each respective SUV. Both provide blisteringly quick acceleration as is, but Land Rover promises the new SV will be “the fastest, most dynamic and technologically advanced Range Rover Sport ever.” With six selectable drive modes for the all-wheel-drive system, and modes for snow, mud, sand, and rock crawling, the current SVR already offers a pretty sophisticated package. For most people who aren’t Bond villains (or henchmen), off-road features on the $100,000 luxury SUV are more for bragging rights than actual usage. That’s not expected to change when the new Range Rover Sport SV arrives.Range Rover ReviewsThis 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

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    in Motor News

    Tesla’s Controversial Steering Yoke Now Costs $250

    The available steering yoke on the Tesla Model S and Model X is now a $250 option.Earlier this year, Tesla made a regular steering wheel a no-cost option alongside the controversial yoke, which had been mandatory since a 2021 redesign.The irony is that Tesla CEO Elon Musk once said there’s no chance a traditional steering wheel would return.Tesla’s steering-yoke saga continues. Back in January of this year, the automaker made the decision to once again offer a regular steering wheel on the Model S and Model X. It was a no-cost option that was available along with the yoke-style wheel that had been mandatory on both models since their 2021 redesign. Now, the configurator on Tesla’s website shows the sawed-off steering wheel as a $250 option.TeslaThe steering yoke was controversial from the start, with questions surrounding whether it was even legal. From there, critics and fans quibbled over its safety as well as how well it worked in real-world driving. During Car and Driver’s test of a 2021 Tesla Model S Plaid, we pointed out that the yoke’s main flaw is that the company didn’t pair it with a quicker steering ratio, which at times resulted in awkwardly reaching for the wrong side of it when starting to turn.Of course, the most ironic part of all the yoke hoopla is comments made by Tesla CEO Elon Musk back in July 2021. When directly asked on Twitter whether there was any chance a normal steering wheel would be offered again as an option, Musk tweeted back, “No”.This content is imported from twitter. 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.Well, it looks like the turns have tabled, as not only is a regular steering wheel back, but it comes standard. Plus, now people who like the yoke have to put their money where their mouth is and shell out $250.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 EditorEric Stafford’s automobile addiction began before he could walk, and it has fueled his passion to write news, reviews, and more for Car and Driver since 2016. His aspiration growing up was to become a millionaire with a Jay Leno–like car collection. Apparently, getting rich is harder than social-media influencers make it seem, so he avoided financial success entirely to become an automotive journalist and drive new cars for a living. After earning a degree at Central Michigan University and working at a daily newspaper, the years of basically burning money on failed project cars and lemon-flavored jalopies finally paid off when Car and Driver hired him. His garage currently includes a 2010 Acura RDX, a manual ’97 Chevy Camaro Z/28, and a ’90 Honda CRX Si. More

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    Watch This Hyundai Ioniq 5 Crab Walk into a Parking Space

    This content is imported from youTube. 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.This is the first time we’ve seen Hyundai’s “e-Corner” four-wheel independent steering system in action on public roads for the first time, and we’re mesmerized. The system, first shown in January, uses a Hyundai Ioniq 5 as a testbed to show off how it can turn each wheel up to 90 degrees individually, allowing for some truly impressive turning maneuvers and ultra-tight park jobs. More on the Ioniq 5With all four wheels at full 90-degree lock, parallel parking is easy. All the car has to do is pull up to the spot and drive sideways, slotting perfectly into place. The e-Corner system can also perform tight 180-degree pivot turns by adjusting just the back wheels, or pull off a 360-degree tank turn by adjusting all four wheels, all without occupying more than the car’s initial footprint. The e-Corner system, a product of Hyundai’s Mobis parts division, uses in-wheel motors along with bespoke brake-by-wire and steer-by-wire systems. The company hasn’t said whether it plans to develop the system for mass production, though it’s easy to see why it’d be nice to have, especially if you live in a tight urban environment. Road & Track staff writer with a taste for high-mileage, rusted-out projects and amateur endurance racing. More

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    in Bike

    2023 Yamaha Neo’s Electric Scooter – New Colour Launched, Price Hike

    2023 Yamaha Neo’s Electric ScooterYamaha Neo’s electric scooter has showcased to dealers in India – Yamaha is working on launching an electric scooter soon
    Yamaha currently sells the R15, MT-15 and FZ range of motorcycles in India while the company’s scooter range includes the likes of Aerox 155, RayZR Street Rally 125 FI, RayZR 125 FI and Fascino 125 FI. The electric two wheeler segment has seen a near 188 percent YoY growth in FY2023 from sales in FY 2022 and Yamaha expects to garner some portion of this pie.
    Keen to have an electric offering in the country where demand is increasing by leaps and bounds, a new Yamaha electric scooter India launch is planned for next year. Yamaha has already showcased two electric scooters to their dealers in India. These are E01 and Neo’s. Both these electric scooters are likely to play a major role in Yamaha’s global two wheeler EV portfolio.
    2023 Yamaha Neo’s Electric Scooter
    Yamaha has updated the Neo’s electric scooter with new features and colour schemes. It gets a new turquoise colour scheme as a part of its update for the 2023 model year. This new colour option is being offered along with Midnight Black and Milky White that have been available on the NEO’s electric scooter ever since its launch in 2022.
    Yamaha Neo’s electric scooter sports retro styling with sleek lines and minimalist body work. It gets LED headlamps with LED DRLs, LED tail lamps positioned on its number plate LED turn signals. There is an LCD display with smartphone connectivity, offering the rider updates on battery status, calls, messages and route tracking.
    2023 Yamaha Neo’s Electric Scooter
    Battery Specs, Range
    Yamaha Neo’s electric scooter draws its power via a 2.03kW electric motor paired with two removable lithium-ion batteries. Yamaha claims a 70 km range on the Neo’s electric scooter and a top speed limited to 40 km/h.
    Charging time is around 8 hours. In 2022, the Yamaha Neo’s electric scooter was priced at 3,199 Euros (US $3,527 or Rs 2.88 lakh). Following its recent update, it now sells at 3,599 Euros (US $3,968 or Rs 3.24 lakh).
    New Yamaha Electric Scooter for India
    Compared to the electric scooters on sale in India, the Yamaha Neo’s seems a lot more expensive. India launch of the Neo’s might not happen. Instead, we are more likely to get a Neo’s based localized version of Yamaha electric scooter.
    2023 Yamaha Neo’s Electric Scooter
    Yamaha has confirmed that the prototype testing of their first electric scooter for India has started. Launch is expected sometime next year. Upon launch, it will rival the likes of Ather 450X, TVS iQube, Bajaj Chetak, Hero Vida, etc. Yamaha electric scooter price could be in the Rs 1.5 lakh range. More

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    Royal Enfield Himalayan 450 Inching Towards Launch – New Spy Shots

    New Himalayan 450 Liquid-cooled EngineThe 450cc liquid-cooled engine on Royal Enfield Himalayan 450 is expected to develop 35 bhp power and 40 Nm torque
    Royal Enfield is expanding its portfolio to include a new 450cc lineup. The first of which is likely to be Himalayan 450, followed by Scram 450 at a later date. Both these motorcycles will sit above the current 411cc Himalayan and Scram lineup. Royal Enfield’s new 450cc platform is likely to be in final testing stages.
    This new 450cc motor will throw powerful jabs against fast-paced rivals like BMW G 310 GS and current 390 Adventure and upcoming 2024 KTM 390 Adventure. Another rival will be the upcoming Hero Xpulse 420. Recent spy shots reveal most of the componentry and hardware offered by Royal Enfield. Let’s take a look.
    The beefy Royal Enfield Himalayan 450
    After Classic 350 Bobber test mules, we get to witness Himalayan 450 testing as well. For starters, Royal Enfield has used hard cladding instead of wraps or soft cladding to camouflage its upcoming motorcycle. It reminds me of creative improv masks from Covid-19 pandemic era. Except for that, there are a lot of firsts associated with this upcoming motorcycle.
    Himalayan 450 is the first single-cylinder motorcycle from the company to get LED headlights, LED turn indicators, USD front forks, and a fully digital instrument cluster among others. Other 350cc and 411cc motorcycles from Royal Enfield miss out on these features. In terms of powertrain-related firsts, Himalayan 450 will be the first single-cylinder bike to get a liquid-cooling setup and rumoured to get a 6-speed gearbox.
    New Himalayan 450 Digital Console
    To keep costs in check, Royal Enfield is unlikely to offer ride-by-wire, slip and assist clutch, quick shifter and the likes. That said, dual-channel ABS with switchable functionality at the rear wheel is highly probable. Allowing fast-paced rear wheel turns and associated fun. The fully digital instrument cluster can get navigation and Bluetooth functionality built-in, negating the need for a Tripper screen.
    A large radiator at front, upmarket switchgear, a new sump guard, grippy off-road foot pegs with removable rubber, and a new brake fluid reservoir are notable elements. Royal Enfield isn’t offering fins on the engine for the retro vibe as Jawa Adventure does. The test mule looks production ready.
    Performance, handling, price, rivals
    Exact figures for the new 450cc engine are not yet out. 35 bhp of power and 40 Nm of torque are likely figures. Rider’s triangle is fairly comfortable with an upright riding position. Standing and riding should be easy as well. The rumoured sixth gear will offer better long-leggedness, sitting at lower engine speeds at higher vehicle speeds.
    New Himalayan 450 USD Forks
    The front wiser looks like it offers decent wind protection, and seats look comfy enough as well. We would have liked wire-spoke wheels with tubeless tires. But that is not the case. Front 19” and rear 17” wheel sizes could be similar to Himalayan 411 as well. Royal Enfield Himalayan 450 prices could be around Rs. 2.5 lakh. Launch expected early next year. More

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    in Electric Cars

    Tata vs MG Electric Cars: An Advertising War for Your Attention

    Tata vs MGTata vs. MG: The Electric Car War of Words – Advertisement Get Creative – Join the Debate
    The advertising war between auto manufacturers is an interesting phenomenon that has been going on for years. In this case, we have jabs being traded over 2 respective electric vehicles.
    What started as a single image shared by a Tata dealership on Facebook, has taken on a life of its own during the course of the day. The launch of the MG Comet micro EV has sparked a new advertising war. And it keeps the focus on electric cars. The marketing messages used on behalf of both companies reflect the growing conversations around electric vehicles, and the need to distinguish oneself in the marketplace.
    Tata and MG: A Battle of Electric Proportions
    “Own a car vs not a cartoon,” was the first find of the day. Highlighting the practicality of their electric cars. The word “car” suggests that Tata is offering a legitimate mode of transportation, while the word “cartoon” implies that the MG Comet is not a serious option. It likely plays on notions of being a more serious choice, as opposed to a quirky and playful vehicle like the MG Comet. Aka cartoon in this instance.
    In response, the ongoing banter now positions the Comet as a new, modern, and technologically advanced option with their messaging “Ice age vs new age.” The word “ice age” suggests that Tata’s cars are outdated and old-fashioned, while “new age” implies that MG’s cars are futuristic and cutting-edge. MG is targeting customers who are looking for a stylish and cool car that stands out from the crowd. It positions MG Comet EV as a modern and forward-thinking option. It’s a clever play on words that plays on the idea of a technological revolution from the Ice Age to the New Age.
    Tata vs MG
    Electric Car Advertising 101: Tata and MG Get Competitive
    The messaging “Old school vs new cool” is a further attempt to position MG Comet as a modern and trendy car. The word “old school” could suggest that Tata’s cars are traditional, outdated, and reminiscent of the past, while “new cool” implies that MG’s cars are modern and fashionable. And thereby targeting customers who are looking for a car that reflects their personality and sense of style.
    The notion “taxi or tech” is another dig at Tata, suggesting that their cars are only good for commercial use, while MG’s cars are high-tech and trendy. Probably to click with those who want a car that is not only functional but also represents their lifestyle and values.
    Tata’s Taxi Cars vs. MG’s Sexy EVs: Electric Car Marketing Heats Up
    Finally, “say tata to taxi vs drive something sexy” sounds a bit more like a direct challenge to Tata’s brand image. The word “taxi” suggests that Tata’s cars are taxis / cabs, while “sexy” implies that MG’s cars are sleek, stylish, and desirable.
    These marketing messages are all about positioning respective brands in trying to distinguish themselves, and capture a share of the growing electric car market. If you are in the market for an electric car, take a test drive, weigh your options, and make an informed decision that suits your lifestyle and values. More

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    in Bike

    Bajaj Sales Breakup March 2023 – Pulsar, Platina, CT, Chetak, Dominar

    Image – MRD VlogsBajaj Chetak electric has accounted for the highest percentage growth in domestic markets in March 2023
    Bajaj Auto Limited has seen outstanding demand in domestic markets for its two wheeler range. Exports on the other hand fell significantly with most models showing off a YoY de-growth. Total sales (domestic + exports) stood at 2,33,827 units in March 2023 down from 2,47,933 units sold in March 2022. It was however, a MoM growth from total sales (domestic + exports) which had stood at 2,18,975 units in Feb 2023.
    Bajaj Auto sales in domestic markets improved by 41.22 percent to 1,45,873 units in March 2023 from 1,03,292 units sold in March 2022. This was volume growth of 42,581 units. It was the Pulsar range that topped sales charts with 1,00,252 units sold in the past month, a 48.88 percent YoY growth from 67,339 units sold in March 2022.
    Bajaj 2W Domestic Sales Breakup March 2023
    The Pulsar range commands a 68.73 percent share. It was the Pulsar 125cc that received the most attention with 60,352 units sold last month, up 52.07 percent from 39,687 units sold in March 2022. Pulsar 200cc (17,156 units) and Pulsar 250cc (9,144 units) posted a YoY growth while Pulsar 150cc saw sales dip to 13,600 units in the past month from 18,044 units sold in March 2022 relating to a 24.63 percent YoY de-growth.
    Sales of the Bajaj Platina also improved by 27.30 percent YoY to 34,311 units from 26,952 units sold in March 2022. Platina currently commands a 23.52 percent share on this list. De-growth was seen in the case of Bajaj CT which dipped 15.93 percent to 4,381 units in March 2023 from 5,211 units sold in March 2022. It was the CT110cc that saw sales dip 52.29 percent to 2,486 units while CT125cc sales stood at 1,895 units.
    Bajaj 2W Sales Breakup March 2023
    Bajaj Chetak electric scooter sales zoomed by 249.30 percent on a YoY basis to 3,514 units in March 2023 from 1,006 units sold in March 2022 relating to a 2,508 unit volume growth. The 2023 Bajaj Chetak is in the making and is said to come in with an increased range which could be around 18 km more than that seen on its current counterpart.
    Bajaj 2W Sales Breakup March 2023
    Sales of Bajaj Avenger (1,952 units) and Dominar (1,463 units) posted YoY growth at 16.19 percent and 32.52 percent respectively in March 2023. Of this, the Avenger 200cc received more demand at 1,572 units over the Avenger 250cc of which only 380 units were sold last month. Dominar, on the other hand, had 820 units of its 500cc model sold in the month while there had been 643 units of the 250cc sold. Bajaj Auto has recently registered three new names – Bajaj Aura, Bajaj Racer and Bajaj Hammer; likely for upcoming new motorcycles / scooters / EVs.
    Bajaj Boxer, Pulsar Top Exports Charts – March 2023
    Bajaj Auto has seen its exports fall by 39.19 percent YoY. Exports stood at 87,954 units in March 2023 down from 1,44,641 units shipped in March 2022. This was volume de-growth of 56,687 units. Bajaj Boxer was most in demand globally with 40,252 units sold in March 2023, down 55.28 percent over 90,016 units sold in March 2022. This was a 49,764 unit volume de-growth with the Boxer commanding a 45.76 percent share on this list. Boxer 110cc had 22,426 units shipped last month while Boxer 150cc saw 11,914 units exported in March 2023 along with 5,912 units of Boxer 125cc.
    Bajaj 2W Exports Breakup March 2023
    The Pulsar range had 18,646 units shipped in the past month, a 17.67 percent YoY de-growth from 22,648 units sold in March 2022. Pulsar 200cc was the most in demand with 13,692 units shipped last month, a growth of 42.36 percent from 9,618 units sold in March 2022. There were also 2,340 units of Pulsar 250cc, 1,657 units of Pulsar 125cc and 957 units of Pulsar 150cc shipped to global markets in March 2023.
    Exports of Bajaj CT improved just marginally by 0.29 percent YoY to 16,416 units with the CT 110 cc commanding a major share of 8,136 units in March 2023. There were also 7,992 units of CT 125cc and 288 units of CY 150cc shipped, both of which saw lower YoY exports.
    Bajaj Discover (8,952 units) and Dominar (2,440 units) each posted YoY de-growth of 15.67 percent and 8.68 percent respectively. Avenger sales improved by 190.41 percent YoY to 636 units in March 2023 from 219 units sold in March 2022. Out of this, there were 444 units of Avenger 250cc sold and 192 units of Avenger 200cc sold last month. Platina exports also fell 70.88 percent to just 612 units in March 2023 from 2,102 units sold in March 2022. It was Platina 110cc that received more attention with 324 units sold in March 2023 along with 288 units of Platina 125cc. More