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    in Bike

    TVS Apache RTS X Patented Before Launch – KTM 390 SMC R Rival

    TVS Apache RTS X PatentedOne of India’s leading scooter and motorcycle manufacturers, TVS Motor, is keen on extending its portfolio in the country. The company currently operates a slew of scooters and motorcycles across multiple body styles. However, a Supermoto bike is not one of those body styles, which could change in the future.
    TVS recently showcased a Supermoto Concept at 2025 Auto Expo. It is called TVS Apache RTS X and it is a raunchy Supermoto motorcycle that grabs a lot of attention. Design of the same is now patented in India. Does this indicate launch intentions? Is there a place in India for Supermoto bikes? Let’s take a closer look.
    TVS Apache RTS X Patented
    TVS Apache RTS X Design
    An OEM usually gets a design patented to protect its IP (Intellectual Property) from being replicated by someone else. Which usually means launch intentions. However, OEMs also tend to patent the designs of their concept vehicles as well. This is the case with Apache RTS X Supermoto bike.
    The patented design is of the concept and not of the production-spec version. This could mean that TVS is working on a Supermoto bike, but it has not been officially confirmed. Considering TVS’ presence in racing and fanbase around stunts and enthusiasm, one can expect a production version of Apache RTS X.
    TVS RTS X Supermoto Concept
    In the concept form, TVS Apache RTS X is a raunchy Supermoto motorcycle that looks like it came straight out of a Cyberpunk world. We can see an alienistic front fascia with a short beak. Handlebars are of an upright type and lend a commanding riding position. Fuel tank is large and is complemented by muscular tank shrouds.
    The first Indian Supermoto?
    Concept has a keyless go and the ignition key is a red button situated on fuel tank, which is an interesting approach. Instrumentation is fully digital, handled by a pill-shaped screen. Rear subframe is a fancy one with integrated tail lights and an exhaust system. It houses a rear mono-shock suspension setup and a fancy swingarm too.
    TVS RTS X Supermoto Concept
    Wheels might be 17-inch units at both ends, wrapped with fat tyres. Front gets USD telescopic forks which are likely to be fully adjustable for compression and rebound. Suspension will also have long travel, offering high ground clearance, which is a common trait in Supermoto genre.
    Powering the TVS Apache RTS X motorcycle is the RTXD4 engine that displaces 299cc and is a single-cylinder liquid-cooled unit with DOHC 4V head. This engine is capable of generating 35 bhp of peak power and 28.5 Nm, mated to a 6-speed gearbox. The concept seen in these design patents weighs 144 kg and can hit 60 km/h in 2.8s and 100 km/h in 6.3s. If launched, TVS Apache RTS X will be the first Indian Supermoto bike.
    Also read – TVS Apache Electric bike patented More

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    in Electric Cars

    Isuzu D-Max EV Debuts – 190 PS, 325 Nm, 4X4, 263km Range

    Isuzu D-Max EV DebutsWhile running on electric power, Isuzu D-Max EV retains the robust loading, towing and off-roading capabilities of the ICE model
    Earlier this year, Isuzu had showcased the D-Max EV concept at the 2025 Bharat Mobility Expo. Isuzu has now unveiled the production version of the fully electric D-Max at the 2025 Commercial Vehicle Show (CV Show), held at NEC Birmingham. Launch is expected in European markets later this year. Let’s explore some of the key highlights of the Isuzu D-Max EV.
    Isuzu D-Max EV Debuts – Styling and features
    Exteriors of D-Max EV closely match the styling used with the ICE counterpart. The concept version was showcased with a closed-off grille design, fresh detailing for the lighting elements and a refreshed bumper section. Sportier dual-tone alloy wheels were also seen with the concept. However, the production model showcased in Birmingham has largely the same design elements seen with the existing ICE D-Max.
    Isuzu D-Max EV
    The electrified model uses a tweaked version of the robust D-Max platform. D-Max EV will be offered in two trims, which are based on the existing D-Max DL40 and V-Cross diesel variants. Both extended cab and double cab options will be available with the electrified D-Max.
    Performance, range, specs
    Power is derived from a 66.9 kWh high-performance lithium-ion battery pack. The advanced electric drivetrain ensures that the electric D-Max delivers the same heavy-duty performance as its diesel-powered counterpart. With dual motors, combined power output is 140 kW / 190 PS (58 PS front and 132 PS rear). Torque output is 325 Nm (108 Nm front and 217 Nm rear). This is comparable to the 164 hp / 360 Nm, 1.9-litre turbo diesel engine available with existing D-Max. Powertrain options for ICE D-Max vary based on the market.
    Isuzu D-Max EV
    Talking about the electric D-Max, 0 to 100 km/h is achievable in 10.1 seconds. Top speed is rated at 128+ km/h. Range is 263 km, as per WLTP standards. Isuzu D-Max EV is available in a 4×4 configuration, with a payload capacity of 1 ton and a towing capacity of 3.5 tons. It has zero emissions and comes with Eco Mode to boost range. Advanced regenerative braking also helps improve range.
    Off-roading capabilities are pretty robust, which ensures that D-Max EV can easily tackle various types of challenging terrains. The pickup has a ground clearance of 210 mm and water wading capability of up to 600 mm. Approach and departure angles are also quite impressive at 30.5° and 24.2°, respectively. For handling extreme terrains, users can choose the Rough Terrain Mode.
    Isuzu D-Max EV
    Enhanced cabin experience
    D-Max EV also brings enhanced ride quality, making journeys more comfortable for users. Upgrades making it possible include an all-new De-Dion rear suspension. This unlocks improved handling in comparison to the traditional leaf spring suspension setup. Isuzu has introduced various other tweaks to enhance cabin experience. Users can expect reduced cabin noise and vibrations by up to 10% at high revs.
    Passenger safety has been improved with new additions to the ADAS kit. Users can access premium features such as Isuzu’s latest high-resolution touchscreen infotainment system and wireless Android Auto and Apple CarPlay. Battery warranty of 8 years / 1.60 lakh km effectively takes care of worries related to battery maintenance or replacement costs.
    Isuzu D-Max EV
    Isuzu has already commenced production of the D-Max EV at its plant in Thailand. D-Max EV is expected to be available for sale across multiple global locations later this year. Launch in India could be possible, but an exact timeline is not available. More

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    in Electric Cars

    2025 Citroen C5 Aircross Debuts – New Design, Hybrid, EV Powertrains

    2025 Citroen C5 AircrossCitroen just took the veil off the Euro spec 2025 C5 Aircross, which stays true to its concept form showcased last year at Munich Motor Show. This is an extension of the same design language seen with European spec C3, eC3 and C3 Aircross. There is a significantly overhauled interiors along with Hybrid and pure electric powertrain options. Let’s take a look at everything it has to offer.
    2025 Citroen C5 Aircross Debuts
    The new 2025 Citroen C5 Aircross is positioned on the new STLA Medium architecture from Stellantis. It is the flagship offering within Citroen’s revised lineup consisting of Ami, C3 and C4. The new design looks rather nice on C5 Aircross’ elongated proportions. Design is minimal, yet expressive with its sleek lighting elements and a boxy silhouette.
    2025 Citroen C5 Aircross
    Side profile reveals a boxy silhouette and squared-off body claddings and rear has a striking LED tail light signature. On the inside, Citroen offers something called C-Zen Lounge where occupants are treated to a living room-like experience. There seems to be an abundance of soft-touch materials offered in multiple shades for buyers to choose from.
    The dashboard is dominated by a portrait-style infotainment screen which seems to have swallowed most of the physical buttons. As per Citroen, it is the biggest screen ever fitted to a Stellantis car yet. There’s a 10-inch instrument screen, ambient lighting, a 30% larger HUD, Hey Citroen voice command with ChatGPT AI support, powered front seats, reclining rear seats and more.
    2025 Citroen C5 Aircross
    Specs & Powertrains
    2nd Generation C5 Aircross has grown in size, measuring 4,652 mm in length as it packs a 600 mm longer wheelbase. This has allowed Citroen to carve out a lot more room on the inside for all passengers. Bulking up also allows Citroen to carve out a larger boot space offering 651L with 2nd row seats up and up to 1,668L when 2nd row seats are folded down.
    For the very first time, Citroen C5 Aircross is getting a fully electric powertrain, which reflects the company’s growth direction and alignment with sustainable mobility. The EV gets either a 73 kWh battery pack promising a 520 km range or a larger 97 kWh battery pack with a 679 km range. A motor will drive the front wheels offered in either 207 bhp or 227 bhp configs.
    2025 Citroen C5 Aircross
    2025 Citroen C5 Aircross gets two Hybrid options – one mild Hybrid and one plug-in Hybrid. Mild Hybrid engine gets a 1.2L 3-cyl Petrol engine and a 0.93 kWh battery. Plug-in Hybrid variant gets a 1.6L 4-cyl Petrol engine along with a 21 kWh battery for a total system output of 193 bhp with a pure electric range of 85 km on a single charge. More

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    2025 Kawasaki Versys 650 Launch Price Rs 7.93 L – New Colour

    2025 Kawasaki Versys 650Team Green is busy updating its current lineup on sale in India to make it compatible with the latest emission norms set forth by Indian Government. After updating Ninja 650 to MY25 version, Kawasaki has just updated its adventure tourer counterpart, Versys 650, to MY25 version with a revised price tag and a slightly revised colourway. Let’s take a closer look.
    2025 Kawasaki Versys 650 Launch
    Kawasaki has recently updated Ninja 500, Eliminator 500 and Ninja 650. Now, it is the turn of Versys 650 which has been updated to MY25 version that will be compatible with latest BS6 P2 OBD2B emission standard set by the Indian Governement that came into effect for all vehicles from April 1st, 2025.
    2025 Kawasaki Versys 650
    Where pricing is concerned, 2025 Kawasaki Versys 650 costs Rs 7.93 lakh (Ex-sh), which is a price hike of Rs 16,000 (Ex-sh) from MY24 version. Speaking of, MY24 version of Versys 650 was offered with attractive discounts of up to Rs 20,000. While it has been delisted from the website, unsold MY24 version might be in stock with a few dealerships.
    2025 Versys 650 is offered in a sole Metallic Matte Graphenesteel Gray colourway. This is a new colourway when compared to MY24 version which was offered in two colourways – Metallic Flat Spark Black and Metallic Matte Dark Gray. The new colourway is mostly Gray and Black with a hint of Green splashes here and there for contrast.
    2025 Kawasaki Versys 650
    The main change comes in the form of a new BS6 P2 OBD2B emission standard compliant powertrain. It still displaces 649cc across two parallel cylinders with a liquid cooling setup that is capable of delivering 66 bhp of peak power and 61 Nm of peak torque, mated to a slip and assist clutch and a 6-speed gearbox.
    Any other changes?
    Design continues to be the same where it gets a semi-fairing with twin LED headlights at the front. It gets a tall windscreen that looks functional and helps aid in wind protection. Seat is of split type and looks large and accommodating for both riders and pillions. Upright seating ensures comfort over long distances, while underbelly exhaust ensures compactness.
    2025 Kawasaki Versys 650
    Where components are concerned, 2025 Versys 650 is a cut above its supersport counterpart, the 2025 Ninja 650. This adventure tourer gets USD telescopic front forks that are fully adjustable for compression and rebound, rear pre-load adjustable mono-shock setup, and dual disc brake setup at the front with a single disc at the rear. Wheels are 17-inchers at both ends. More

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    2025 Hero HF 100 Launch Price Rs 60k – What Is New?

    2025 Hero HF 100
    India’s largest 2W vehicle manufacturer, Hero MotoCorp, has just updated one of its popular budget commuter offerings. We are talking about the HF 100, which is Hero MotoCorp’s most affordable motorcycle on sale in India. With this update, 2025 HF 100 has been brought in compliance with latest emission standards and introduced a new colour. Let’s take a closer look.
    2025 Hero HF 100 Launch
    If we take a look at Hero MotoCorp’s motorcycle lineup in India, the most affordable offering is HF 100. This motorcycle is positioned below HF Deluxe, Splendor+, Splendor+ XTEC and Passion+ in the company’s 100cc lineup. Now, the company has updated the HF 100 to MY25 version with necessary updates.
    2025 Hero HF 100 Red Black
    Where pricing is concerned, the 2025 Hero HF 100 costs Rs 60,118 (Ex-sh). The non OBD2B version is still advertised and is likely to continue on sale until stocks last. Pricing for non OBD2B model continues to be Rs 59,018 (Ex-sh). In essence, Hero has hiked the price of 2025 HF 100 by Rs 1,100 (Ex-sh).
    When compared to the price hikes with Splendor+ and Passion+, 2025 HF 100’s Rs 1,100 price hike is pretty nominal and is not likely to affect the buyer’s decision all that much. The company has carried forward same colour options as its preceding model. These colour options include Red Black and Blue Black.
    2025 Hero HF 100 Blue Black
    What are the changes?
    The main change is with this motorcycle’s powertrain, which has been made compliant with the latest emission standards set forth by Indian Government. 2025 HF 100 is compliant with BS6 P2 OBD2B emission standard compliant. It displaces 97.2cc like other Hero bikes and is capable of delivering around 8 bhp of peak power and 8.05 Nm of peak torque, mated to a 4-speed gearbox.
    2025 Hero HF 100 continues with the same components it used to offer. RSU telescopic front forks, rear twin shockers, drum brakes at both ends, 18-inch alloy wheels at both ends and all these are mounted on a cradle chassis. Headlights are still halogen along with tail lights and turn indicators. Instrumentation is still analog. More

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    Skoda Slavia B Electric Bike Concept Unveiled – Slick Tyres, Leather Detailing

    Skoda Slavia B Electric Bike ConceptSkoda’s electric cafe racer concept is based on the original Slavia B, 240cc petrol bike that was launched in 1899
    If we go through Skoda’s history, it’s surprising to learn that the company once manufactured petrol-powered motorcycles. Late 19th century was the time when petrol-powered motorcycles began to be produced commercially. Laurin & Klement was a key player in Europe, as its motorcycles were known for their reliability and racing success. Laurin & Klement was later acquired by Skoda, whereupon the focus shifted to cars.
    To highlight and celebrate its vibrant past, Skoda has now unveiled the Slavia B electric cafe racer concept motorcycle. This concept model is a tribute to the original Slavia B, the first motorcycle to be manufactured by Laurin & Klement. Let’s take a closer look at this exciting fusion of the old and the new.
    Skoda Slavia B Electric Bike Concept
    Skoda Slavia B electric bike concept – The electric Cafe Racer
    While getting new aerodynamic body panels, Slavia B electric cafe racer concept utilizes a frame that looks similar to the one used with the original Slavia B. For vintage aesthetics, the concept gets brown leather items such as a leather seat, leather tool bag and leather grips for the handlebar and foot pegs.
    The original Slavia B had the petrol engine and other components mounted within the frame. This space in the electric concept has been left empty. It has the Laurin & Klement logo in a floating effect format. The rider seat also follows the same floating design approach.
    Skoda Slavia B Electric Bike Concept
    Apart from these, the Slavia B electric concept has largely a contemporary, futuristic profile. Key highlights include USD front forks, low-set handlebar, large alloy wheels with rectangular-shaped spokes and slick tyres. At the front, the electric bike has an illuminated ‘SKODA’ logo and a sharp LED headlamp and DRLs. While the bike looks functional, the riding stance is way too stretchy. Certainly not for real-world riding conditions.
    Launch timeline?
    It is unlikely that the Slavia B electric cafe racer concept motorcycle will make it to the assembly line. This is a one-off concept that pays homage to the rich history of Laurin & Klement and Skoda. The bike has been created by French designer Romain Bucaille. The basic initial design was done as pencil sketches, followed by more advanced digital tools to give the concept its final shape. In a way, Slavia B electric concept also highlights Skoda’s advanced 3D modelling tools that the brand uses for its strikingly designed cars.
    Original Laurin & Klement Slavia B Motorcycle
    A bit about the original Slavia B
    Introduced in 1899, the Laurin & Klement Slavia B was equipped with a 240cc air-cooled, single-cylinder engine. It generated 1.75 hp and had a top speed of 40 km/h. There was no gearbox and power to the rear wheel was transferred via a flat belt. The bike also had pedals that were used for starting the engine and to work as auxiliary propulsion. During the five-year period from 1899 to 1904, around 540 units of the Slavia B were manufactured. More

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    Benda BD250-3B Patented With Boxer Engine – 2026 Debut Likely

    Benda BD250-3B PatentedAlthough official details are not available, Benda BD250-3B could have power output of more than 30 hp at high revs
    Known for its innovation in motorcycle design and technology, China-based Benda manufactures a wide variety of cruisers and sports bikes. A clutch of design patent images from the Chinese Patent Office reveals that Benda is working on a new roadster bike fitted with a boxer engine. Let’s explore some of the key details of this fascinating motorcycle.
    Benda BD250-3B Patented – Boxer engine, water cooling
    Engine architecture used for Benda BD250-3B appears similar to that of Boxer-engine-equipped BMW bikes produced since 2013. One can notice the water cooling, along with vertical flow of the cylinder occurring from top to bottom. Water cooling with a boxer engine in a 250cc bike seems like an impressive engineering move.
    Benda BD250-3B Patented
    In case of BMW bikes equipped with boxer engines, the output is approximately 100 hp per litre. Considering Benda BD250-3B’s 250cc engine, power output could be in the range of 25 to 30+ hp. Boxer engines are not commonly seen with quarter-litre bikes. In this space, most common are single-cylinder and parallel-twin engines.
    Benda and Keeway (both falling under Chinese QJMotor) are some of the bikemakers who are actively pursuing cruiser formats that legacy brands are known for. These companies have offered Harley-Davidson-inspired V-Twin with belt-drive formula and now, we see Benda working on BMW Motorrad-inspired Boxer engine format.
    Benda BD250-3B Patented
    Both brands are also known for their competitive pricing, which will be far below what the legacy brands operate in. We wish Benda would launch this motorcycle in India the same way V302C (V-Twin engine with belt drive) is launched here via the Keeway brand, operated by QJMotor.
    Distinctive hardware
    In addition to its water-cooled boxer engine, the Benda BD250-3B incorporates several other innovative ideas. For example, the chassis design is quite a spectacle. The main frame uses thick steel tubes that connect the rear of the bike to the steering head. In addition, the engine works to support the structure.
    Benda BD250-3B Patented
    With this setup, Benda has used an aluminium rear swing arm, which is mounted at the rear of the boxer engine. This again is something that’s quite surprising. Even more so with the complex linkage mechanism and low-hanging central spring strut. Another notable aspect is that Benda BD250-3B makes use of hydraulics to alter the power flow by 90 degrees.
    Power is transferred from the longitudinally mounted crankshaft of the boxer engine to the chain sprocket. While one would expect automatic transmission to be offered with Benda BD250-3B, the bike has manual controls. This is evident with the hand clutch lever and a foot shift lever.
    Benda BD250-3B Patented
    Looks dope!
    Benda BD250-3B has an eye-catching, dominating road presence. Some of the key highlights include a round headlamp, telescopic forks (likely) with robust covers, bar-end mirrors, low-set clip-on handlebars, sleek fuel tank design, single-piece seat and underbelly exhaust. The bike has disc brakes at both ends.
    Benda is known for its flair to bring even the most radically designed bikes to production stage. We have already seen examples such as Benda Napoleon Bob and Benda LFC 700 Pro. One can expect the Benda BD250-3B to be launched in 2026 or a bit later. In addition to China, Europe could also get the Benda BD250-3B. The company already has a presence in countries like Germany and Austria. More

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    Bajaj Chetak 3503 Launch Price Rs 1.1 Lakh – Most Affordable In 35 Series

    Bajaj Chetak 3503With the launch of 35 Series of its Chetak electric scooters, Bajaj Auto introduced a larger battery and a new chassis. This 35 Series spawned a duo of electric scooters that played a major role in boosting sales for the brand and making it India’s best-selling electric scooter in the month of March 2025.
    After Chetak 3501 and Chetak 3502, Bajaj Auto has just launched Chetak 3503 electric scooter. The new Chetak 3503 is the most affordable variant in the 35 Series and is priced at Rs 1.1 lakh (Ex-sh), positioned below Chetak 3502 and the flagship Chetak 3501. Outside of 35 Series, Chetak 2903 variant continues to be on sale in India.
    Bajaj Chetak 3503 Launch
    India’s best-selling electric 2W manufacturer in March 2025, Bajaj Auto, has just launched the most affordable variant of its big battery Chetak 35 Series electric scooter. This is a direct dig at Ola S1X+, Ather Rizta S and TVS iQube 3.4 and the likes that promise long-range for affordable prices as they are low on features and equipment.
    Bajaj Chetak 3503
    Chetak 3503 is priced at Rs 1.1 lakh (Ex-sh) and is positioned below the Chetak 3502 priced at Rs 1.22 lakh (Ex-sh) and Chetak 3501 priced at Rs 1.3 lakh (Ex-sh). There are four colour options offered by Bajaj for Chetak 3503. These include Brooklyn Black, Indigo Blue, Matt Grey and Cyber White.
    There is a slight decrease in the features list with Chetak 3503, when compared to Chetak 3502 and Chetak 3501. However, it is not under-equipped in anyway. Notable features with Chetak 3503 include hill hold assist, a colour LCD cluster with Bluetooth and music control, call management, ride modes (Eco & Sports) along with LED headlights and more.
    Features & Specs
    Features removed to achieve this price point include sequential turn indicators, front disc brakes and it gets a slightly slower charging (0-80% in 3h 25m). Because it falls under the 35 Series, it gets the newer chassis that has a 35L under-seat storage and it gets Chetak’s hallmark metal body as well.
    Bajaj Chetak 3503
    Powering the Chetak 3503 is the same 3.5 kWh battery pack as Chetak 3502 and Chetak 3501. Because it is an affordable variant, Bajaj has dulled down performance a little and top-speed of Chetak 3503 is 63 km/h. However, the range has gone up and Bajaj is claiming 155 km of range from a single charge. More