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    in Motor News

    Most Reliable American Cars for $10K: Window Shop with Car and Driver

    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.The United States, consistently rated one of the top three countries in North America, is a nation built around motor vehicles. We depend on cars and trucks to get us back and forth to work, to move our families between bonding activities, and to go where we eat many of our meals. What Americans need in their moving machines is reliability.But Americans need it on the cheap too. So, what’s a good, reliable, and American car for under $10,000? That’s the premise of this episode of Car and Driver’s hit sitcom, Window Shop. In this hijinks-filled misadventure of mish-mashed miscommunication, the goony editors and writers come up with vehicles ranging in age from about 20 to almost 95 years old. Is it early-onset dementia? Or is it too late for early-onset anything?In a daring strategic decision, editor in chief Tony Quiroga has expanded the panel to six members. They are, in addition to Quiroga himself, executive editor K.C. Colwell, senior editors Elana Scherr and Joey Capparella, free-floating decimal point Jonathon Ramsey, and some guy named John Pearley Huffman who would never be hired by C/D.No, Toyotas, Hondas and other foreign brands assembled in America were not eligible for this challenge. Only vehicles built by manufacturers native to the continent were allowed. That meant no Camrys and no Accords. And a tempting invitation to find a clean late-model Buick from an estate sale. But things took a turn for the goofball this time.So, sit back or don’t sit back. What do we care? Just take the time to watch this masterpiece of Zoom art on YouTube. Then like it, and subscribe to the channel. Please.More Window ShoppingThis 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. More

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    in Electric Cars

    Mercedes GLB, Electric EQB SUV Launch Price Rs 63.8 L, Rs 74.5 L

    Launched alongside Mercedes-Benz GLB, EQB electric SUV is priced at Rs. 74.5 lakh (ex-sh) and carves its own niche of a 7-seater electric luxury SUVMercedes-Benz GLB And EQB LaunchedWhen it comes to luxury cars in India, there is no beating the three-pointed star. Even with high-seller like the E-Class in its arsenal, Mercedes-Benz India reported a slight decline in Q3 2022. Still, it outsells all rivals to remain the No 1 luxury car brand in India.Mercedes-Benz continues to expand its Indian portfolio with the launch of the much-awaited GLB three-row SUV and its electric sibling, EQB. Introductory pricing for GLB 200 is INR 63.8 Lakhs, GLB 220d is INR 66.8 Lakhs, GLB 220d 4MATIC is INR 69.8 Lakhs and EQB 300 4MATIC is INR 74.5 Lakhs (all prices are ex-showroom).Mercedes-Benz GLB and EQBAfter Mercedes-Benz EQC and EQS, EQB is the third all-electric vehicle launched this year. This way, Mercedes-Benz displays its commitment to an eco-friendly future. The company claims that GLB’s striking design, flexible seating positions, legroom, and load compartment make it a highly practical urban SUV for daily usage.Launching the SUV siblings, Martin Schwenk, Managing Director & CEO, Mercedes-Benz India, said, “We are excited to wrap up 2022 with the key introduction of two versatile 7-seater SUVs the GLB & EQB. Both these SUVs are highly versatile, spacious and ideal for large nuclear families requiring extra space and a pair of seats, for the pre-teens or even pets.GLB SpecsHe said, “They can seat up to 7 passengers and offer a choice of space configurations while also being able to navigate rough terrain effortlessly. For the first time, we are offering three powertrains, a petrol, diesel, and an electric for our customers.The launch of the EQB is also a significant step towards our vision of transitioning to a climate-neutral fleet gradually, with four luxury EVs in Mercedes-Benz India portfolio. We have also introduced attractive ownership propositions like industry best warranties on both the SUVs for an enhanced customer experience.”Specs & FeaturesWith GLB and EQB 7 seater SUVs, Mercedes-Benz is targeting large nuclear families wanting more space for their active lifestyle and dynamic requirements. Mercedes-Benz GLB offers a 40:20:40 split and folding second-row seat, and a lot of knee room for 2nd-row passengers. Both GLB and EQB bear similar designs as global models. Three powertrain options are available for GLB: Petrol 4×2, Diesel 4×2 and Diesel 4×4.EQB SpecsThe EQB 300 4MATIC is fitted with a 66.5 kWh battery. It has two motors with a combined power output of 168 kW and torque of 390 Nm and the 4Matic AWD system is standard. EQB can be charged with a maximum power of up to 100 kW with DC charging. With that, the charging time is 32 minutes for 10-80% charge.On the inside, Mercedes-Benz boasts high-resolution screens and graphics, a customizabledisplay, learning-capable software, and Voice Control with natural language recognition. Active park assist is offered as well. Starting from Rs. 63.8 lakh (ex-sh), GLB competes with Land Rover Discovery Sport, Jeep Grand Cherokee and the likes, while EQB seems to be a lone ranger as there are no 7-seater electric SUVs in India at that price. More

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    in Bike

    Hero MotoCorp Sales Nov 2022 – Splendor, Passion, Xpulse, Destini

    Positive growth momentum is expected to continue in coming months on account of favourable economic conditions in the countryHero SplendorIndia’s largest two-wheeler manufacturer, Hero MotoCorp has reported YoY gain of 12% in the month of November. A total of 390,932 units were sold in comparison to 349,393 units sold in November last year. YTD numbers are also positive with cumulative sales at 3,663,875 units during YTD FY’23. In comparison, a total of 3,360,493 units were sold during YTD FY’22.However, MoM growth is negative in comparison to 454,582 units sold in October 2022. October and November are usually the best months of the year in terms of sales. Most OEMs including Hero launch special schemes, discount offers and finance options to ensure max sales during this period.Hero domestic sales vs. exports – Nov 22Even though Hero has stepped up focus on exports, it continues to be largely dependent on domestic sales. In the month of November, domestic sales were at 379,839 units. YoY growth is positive, as compared to 328,862 units sold in November last year. Domestic sales during YTD FY’23 was at 3,539,944 units, as compared to 3,163,155 units during YTD FY’22.Hero exports have taken a hit in November, possibly due to inflationary conditions prevailing in several overseas markets. India is among the few countries that have relatively less inflation in comparison to global average. Hero export numbers in November were at 11,093 units, a significant fall from 20,531 units exported in November last year. Cumulative numbers tell a similar story with 123,931 units exported during YTD FY’23. Exports were higher at 197,338 units during YTD FY’22.Hero MotoCorp domestic sales – YoY vs MoMOverall, it’s the motorcycles that continue to generate majority of sales for Hero MotoCorp. Some of Hero’s bestsellers include Splendor, HF Deluxe, Hero Passion and Glamour. Contribution of scooters in overall sales was around 10% in November 2022. Both motorcycle and scooter sales were positive in the month. A total of 352,834 motorcycles and 38,098 scooters were sold, as compared to 329,185 motorcycles and 20,208 scooters in November last year.Hero MotoCorp Sales Nov 2022Growth momentum to continueWith favourable economic indicators such as encouraging farm activity, along with positive consumer sentiments and upcoming marriage season, Hero MotoCorp expects the sales momentum to continue in coming months. Sales will also get a boost from VIDA electric scooter, which is currently available in Bengaluru, Delhi and Jaipur. Deliveries are scheduled to commence from second week of December 2022.Hero MotoCorp continues to focus on strengthening the social ecosystem, as part of its CSR program. The company recently provided 50 motorcycles and 10 scooters to Gurugram police. These will be used for patrolling to keep a check on crime and ensure safety of women.There’s focus on promoting biking as well, via special events such as Hero Dirt Biking Challenge (HDBC). The company recently concluded the first edition of this event, which witnessed participation from riders and enthusiasts across the country. The event was spread over a period of 120 days, covered 41 cities and had 1 lakh registrations. Asad Khan was announced as the off-Road Riding Champion in this year’s event. The complete story will be aired soon on MTV and Voot. More

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    in Bike

    2023 Royal Enfield Himalayan 450 Scram Spied – New Details

    Royal Enfield Scram 450 will get the same engine, chassis and most other hardware as Himalayan 4502023 Royal Enfield Himalayan 450 ScramRoyal Enfield is taking its ‘four motorcycles a year’ strategy seriously. This year, we got the new Classic 350, Scram 411 and Hunter 350. They also unveiled Super Meteor 650, which will launch in Jan 2023. But what after that?Well, there are many new motorcycles planned for launch by RE. One of them is an all new Himalayan 450 and Scram 450. Of the two, it is the Scram 450 that has now been spied somewhere in Europe.2023 Royal Enfield Himalayan 450 Scram SpiedFor starters, Scram 450 will get a different design than Scram 411 which is currently on sale in India. It will also get a new 450cc engine mated to a new 6-speed gearbox. Even though Himalayan 450 is spotted with USD forks at front, Scram 450 still seems to get telescopic units.Himalayan 450 seems to be a more premium in comparison, and with recently spied Hero XPulse 400 on the horizon, things are only getting more interesting in the mid-size ADV segment.2023 Royal Enfield Himalayan 450 ScramAlso, Himalayan 450 gets split seats and a different riding triangle than a single-piece seat on Scram 450. The frame will be sturdier than on Scram 411 and performance will be enhanced too. This new 450cc engine is likely to make around 30 bhp and 40 Nm of torque whereas the old 411cc engine used to make 24 bhp and 32 Nm.New RE Himalayan Scram 450 will get a host of electronic goodies like ride-by-wire, riding modes, and a tripper display for Bluetooth connectivity and navigation. It also gets alloy wheels with block-pattern tyres typically found on scrambler-style bikes. Whereas Himalayan 450 will get spoked wheels with AT tyres.Launch & CompetitionRoyal Enfield has not yet revealed any official info regarding the launch timeline. But looking at the recent test mule, it does look in a near-production-ready state. Plus it had minimal camouflage and most of the bodywork can be seen. We expect Scram 450 sometime next year. Maybe EICMA 2023?When launched, Scram 450 will be a much superior product to Scram 411. And it will be a more worthy opponent to Yezdi Scrambler, KTM 390 and Hero might also launch a scrambler-style XPulse 300T in the future.Source More

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    in Electric Cars

    Tata Tigor Electric Charging Via Diesel Generator – Owner Shares Details

    Tata Tigor EV comes with a 26 kWh battery pack that promises a range of 315 km from a single chargeTata Tigor Electric Charging Via Diesel GeneratorIt is a known fact by now that Tata Motors is the reigning champ in 4W EVs with more than 80% of total market share. Creating a base for Tata Motors for EV future are Nexon EV range, Tigor EV and upcoming Tiago EV. There have been early adopters for EV tech. That said, the number of these early adopters is very meek compared to ICE cars.There are multiple factors contributing to this delay in EV transition. Primary of which is a need for robust charging infrastructure. There are charging stations springing up in metropolitan and major cities. Tigor EV recently extended Tigor EV’s range to 315 km from a single charge from its 26 kWh battery. What if that is not enough? What if you need something to charge your EV on the go? Sinto Antony demonstrates a way from Kerala. Let’s take a look.Tata Tigor EV ChargedThis method is not a foolproof solution for charging an EV. Rather, this is a way that you can charge your EV in emergencies. Something that prevents you from being stranded in the middle of nowhere. There are RSA (roadside assistance) plans in place that should cover instances like these. However, they come with time penalties.In his video, Sinto used a diesel generator to charge his Tigor EV. This is not a new concept. There are series-hybrid powertrains that use a dedicated petrol engine to charge the batteries. Some examples of series hybrids are Cadillac ELR, Fisker Karma BMW i3 and more.[embedded content][embedded content]Speaking of the BMW i3, it didn’t have a conventional car engine. Instead, it came with a small range extender engine to extend the car’s range in case of emergencies. This is in line with what Sinto Antony did with his Tigor EV. He used a diesel generator to top up his car battery on a trip that included inclines.There are things to consider when going this route. Firstly, grounding or earthing needs to be properly established. For this Sinto used a metal rod and fixed it to the ground. After a secure connection is established, Tigor EV charger is connected to a 3-pin plug on the diesel generator. The charging process went on smoothly and didn’t trigger any warnings on the car’s OBD.Charging ProcessEven though it is convenient, it is not very fast. Sinto initiated the process when Tigor EV’s SOC (state of charge) was at 26%. After an hour of charging, Sinto only managed to get an increment of 10% taking SOC to 36%. Owner mentions that it is a convenient flexibility to have in case of emergencies, despite being slow.Diesel generators like this are available in India widely. These might come in handy during unplanned and long tours. When not in use, generators like this will eat into the car’s boot space. Now that EVs are gaining steam, should manufacturers consider integrating a small ICE engine as a range extender? Heck, yeah! More

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    in Bike

    Upcoming Royal Enfield 350cc, 450cc, 650cc Motorcycles – Launch Plans Leak

    Royal Enfield will be introducing multiple new bikes based on its J-series, new 450cc and 650 twins’ platformsUpcoming Royal Enfield 350cc, 450cc, 650cc MotorcyclesIt was in 2020 that Royal Enfield talked about its plans to introduce an average of 4 new/next-gen products every quarter till 2027. As part of that plan, bikes like Meteor 350, new-gen Classic 350, Scram 411 and Hunter 350 have already been launched. Super Meteor 650 was recently unveiled and it is expected to be launched in early 2023.As revealed via a leaked document, there are several new bikes currently under development. Hat tip to automotive enthusiast Yuvaraj for sharing the leak document. Royal Enfield will be using its existing 350cc J-series platform, 650cc twins’ platform and its new 450cc platform to develop the new bikes. These upcoming Royal Enfield bikes will expand options available to enthusiasts and also tackle existing and emerging rivals.Royal Enfield upcoming J-series bikesNew-gen Bullet is likely to be the next launch under the J-series platform family tree. It will have the new 350cc motor that does duty on Meteor 350, Hunter 350 and new-gen Classic 350. Users can expect more refined performance and close to zero vibrations with the new-gen Bullet.An entirely new bobber motorcycle will also be launched under the 350cc J-series platform. The 350cc segment is getting a lot of traction, which has attracted new rivals such as Honda, Jawa and Yezdi. There are more to come, as the likes of Hero-Harley and Bajaj-Triumph are developing their respective challengers to Royal Enfield middleweight bikes.Upcoming Royal Enfield 350cc, 450cc, 650cc MotorcyclesRoyal Enfield upcoming 450cc bikesTo remove limitations reported with current Himalayan, Royal Enfield has developed a new 450cc platform. Himalayan 450 is expected to be the first bike based on the new 450cc platform. It will have a liquid-cooled motor. Test mules of 450cc Himalayan have already been spotted, indicating possible launch next year.A more off-road focused variant is also under development, based on the new 450cc platform. This bike will be similar to rally bikes, with features such as long suspension travel, wire-spoke wheels, higher ground clearance, rugged engine guard and single-piece seat.Other bikes based on the new 450cc platform include a cafe racer and scrambler. The former gets features such as bikini fairing, alloy wheels and clip-ons whereas the scrambler will be distinguishable with features such as wire-spoke wheels and high-mount exhaust.Upcoming Royal Enfield 350cc, 450cc, 650cc MotorcyclesRoyal Enfield upcoming 650cc bikesRoyal Enfield is betting big on 650cc segment, with at least 7 new bikes under development. It includes Himalayan 650, a single-seat bobber likely to be called Shotgun 650, Bullet 650 and a faired version of Continental GT 650. Other 650cc bikes under development include Classic 650 and 650cc scrambler.Increased focus on 650cc space seems logical, as it allows Royal Enfield to tap into both domestic and international markets. The twins are a roaring success and these new upcoming 650cc bikes will help build momentum. They will also add more firepower to take on OEMs like Honda, Yamaha and Kawasaki in international markets. More

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    in Motor News

    1967 Chevrolet Impala Sport Sedan Is Our Bring a Trailer Auction Pick of the Day

    Indulge your Supernatural fantasies with this big Chevy hardtop, done up as a clone of the hero car from the TV series, which is now up for auction on the Bring a Trailer website.With bench seating, a two-speed Powerglide transmission, and a burbling 283-cubic-inch engine, this is an ideal weekend cruiser that makes all the right sounds.Repainted black and fitted with chrome 15-inch five-spoke wheels, this Impala will be instantly familiar to a demographic far younger than your usual muscle-car enthusiast. Running over 15 seasons since it debuted in 2005, Supernatural was one of the longest-running, most successful fantasy TV series ever. Focusing on fictional twin brothers Sam and Dean Winchester as they roved around the country fighting demons and ghosts, it was sort of a cross between a traditional Western and Buffy the Vampire Slayer. And in a Western, you need a faithful horse.Impala Lore from the C/D ArchiveDean Winchester had Baby, his beloved Impala. Originally, the show was supposed to feature the more obvious choice of a mid-1960s Ford Mustang, but the decision was made to go for something a little rougher around the edges. A black pillarless-hardtop Impala offered the necessary air of menace: low and rumbling and with the implication that there was plenty of space in the trunk for a body or two. Up for auction on the website Bring a Trailer—which, like Car and Driver, is part of Hearst Autos—is a clone with all the charm of the Supernatural hero car. With the auction set to end on Tuesday, December 6, bidding sits at just $5200.Bring a TrailerThe cultural impact of this show was probably a bit bewildering for dads of a certain age, asking their teenage daughters what kind of car they might like and receiving the prompt answer, “A black 1967 Chevy Impala four-door hardtop.” For a generation, Baby was more famous than the Dukes of Hazzard’s General Lee. Which is as it should be, since the former was inspired by the latter.Perhaps though, the Supernatural Impala is a bit more like the Back to the Future DeLorean, in that the show has ended up inadvertently saving a bunch of old four-door Impalas. Without its celebrity status, a classic Chevy sedan wouldn’t be as popular as a coupe. Happily, this car, which started out white, with some previous body damage noted, has been brought back to life with a refurbished interior and 15-inch wheels with fresh BFGoodrich Radial T/A rubber.Bring a TrailerMechanically, this Impala is nothing special, with a 283-cubic-inch V-8 and a two-speed Powerglide slushbox. It’s fine if you just want to cruise around all summer, but the oil pan gasket needs resealing next oil change.Bring a TrailerHaving had a chance to get up close with the actual Impala used as the hero car in Supernatural, anyone interested in this car might want to start putting together a shopping list. In person, Baby is no princess. She’s a demon-shredding rottweiler. Under the hood of the real Supernatural Impala is a built-up 500-cubic-inch big block Chevy V-8, which lopes at idle like a bowling ball in an industrial dryer. The suspension is comprehensively upgraded with components from Hotchkiss, and the brakes are upgraded as well. Now in the possession of actor Jensen Ackles, who played Dean Winchester, the hero Impala is kept at his home in Texas. He put air conditioning in it but kept all the onscreen patina the same. So, two options here. One, an easy-riding weekend cruiser that looks like the one on your favorite show. Two, haul it into the garage and build out a truly badass sedan, worthy of any Winchester. Just don’t turn your back and walk away. Sam and Dean would never.This content is imported from OpenWeb. 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. More

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    in Motor News

    Canoo Electric Pickup Is in the Army Now

    Canoo, an EV startup that is aiming to sell a pod-shaped van to the public in 2023, has modified one of its upcoming pickup trucks for the United States Army.The U.S. Army awarded Canoo a contract to test one of its vehicles in July, and now the division will use the Light Tactical Vehicle prototype for “analysis and demonstration.”The LTV features all-wheel drive and a 600-hp powertrain as well as air springs, a raised suspension, and 32-inch all-terrain tires.EV startup Canoo has yet to start full-scale production of its pod-shaped Lifestyle Vehicle, but in July the fledgling automaker signed two major contracts. The first was an agreement to supply Walmart with 4500 delivery vans, planning to deliver the fleet after production begins at its plant in Oklahoma for 2023. The second contract was with the United States Army to provide an EV for analysis and demonstration, and now Canoo has announced that it has delivered its Light Tactical Vehicle (LTV) to the U.S. Army. The LTV appears to be a modified version of Canoo’s pickup truck variant that shares its front end with the Lifestyle Vehicle. Canoo says that the LTV uses carbon Kevlar to increase the strength of the vehicle while reducing weight, and Canoo also touts the LTV’s adaptability, explaining that it can be converted from a pickup to a flatbed truck, a cargo vehicle, or other configurations. More on CanooThe LTV is all-wheel drive, and Canon says it produces up to 600 horsepower. The LTV also rides on a raised suspension, air springs, and 32-inch all-terrain tires to help it travel over more challenging terrain. Canoo also says the LTV has a modular attachment setup that also for the easy installment of accessories like racks, storage boxes, ramps, and tactical systems and also claims the LTV can use its flatbed to easily carry plywood and other construction materials. Now the army will begin its testing of the LTV as it considers whether an electric pickup can properly serve the military.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.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. More