Aurelia Butler

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    Tesla Applies For Homologation Of Model 3 and Model Y in India

    Tesla Model YAfter finalizing its first ever showroom in Mumbai, Tesla has now applied for homologation of two cars – Model Y and Model 3
    Tesla’s plans to enter India have been in the works for at least the last 3-4 years. The subsidiary entity, Tesla India Motors and Energy Private Limited, was registered in Bengaluru in 2021. Some of the Tesla models were spotted on road tests as well in India. However, a commercial launch was continually delayed.
    Tesla Model Y and Model 3 to be homologated
    Things are vastly different in 2025, as Tesla is finally moving towards the launch phase at an accelerated pace. The first showroom has been finalized, hirings are on and now, homologation applications for Model Y and Model 3 have been filed. Both of these have been spotted earlier on road tests in India. Homologation is one of the final steps before launching a new car in India. It applies to all cars, irrespective of whether they are manufactured in India, assembled in India or imported as CBUs.
    Tesla Model 3
    In India, the Automotive Research Association of India (ARAI) is the centralized agency for conducting homologation of vehicles. A wide variety of tests are performed to ensure that the vehicle meets the quality, safety, performance, emissions and regulatory requirements, as per Indian laws. Once a vehicle passes all the tests, a Type Approval Certificate (TAC) is issued. It is essentially a confirmation that the vehicle is roadworthy and meets all the mandated standards.
    While Tesla was earlier planning to manufacture cars in India, the brand will initially focus on taking the CBU route. It will allow Tesla to get a better understanding of consumer sentiments and demand for its cars in India. Later, as the situation evolves across both domestic and international locations, Tesla can think about local manufacturing in India. As of now, Tesla has manufacturing units in the United States, China and Germany. Tesla is building a new manufacturing plant in Mexico, but completion can take a couple of years.
    Tesla Autopilot
    Import duty reduced for EVs
    Tesla’s fast progress into the Indian market comes at a time when the government has plans to reduce import duties on specific EVs to 15%. Earlier, this tax was around 70% to 110%. It was a key reason that had resulted in delays in Tesla’s entry into India. Reports indicate that Tesla is pushing for an even more lenient tax system, wherein its EVs would attract zero tax. It remains to be seen if such demands will be accepted.
    Tesla could benefit from other policy updates also such as the proposed changes to the domestic value addition (DVA) criteria. The government could also change the minimum value mandated for imported vehicles under the EV manufacturing scheme. Such changes could increase profit margins for Tesla cars sold in India.
    But the red carpet being rolled out for specific EVs comes with some terms and conditions. For example, the lower import duties will be applicable only for OEMs that commit to Make In India and invest at least $500 million (approx. Rs 4,340 crore). Such commitments need to be fulfilled within 3 years. These measures will protect the interests of homegrown carmakers that have invested thousands of crores for building their EV portfolio. More

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    BYD Denza Z9 GT Design Patented In India – 952 Bhp, CNY 335K (Rs 40 L)

    BYD Denza Z9 GT Design Patented In IndiaAfter launching the Sealion 7 in India, BYD seems to be on the verge of expanding its portfolio to incorporate more luxurious and performant vehicles. Recently, BYD patented the design of its flagship SUV, Denza N9, in India. Now, we see BYD patenting Denza Z9 GT in India, which is a flagship Estate or Shooting Brake vehicle. It could be just IP protection exercise from BYD or they could have launch intentions. Let’s take a closer look.
    BYD Denza Z9 GT Design Patented
    Denza Z9 GT is a Shooting Brake or Estate version of Denza Z9 sedan. This is a luxurious large size sedan sold in China and its intended markets include Europe. In contrast, Denza Z9 GT is a sleek and stylish Shooting Brake version with mesmerising looks, owing to its sloping roofline and is more practical as it has a 5-Door form factor with a lift-up hatchback-style tailgate.
    BYD Denza Z9 GT
    In China, prices of BYD Denza Z9 GT start from CNY 334,800 (approx Rs 40 lakh) for base PHEV variant and goes till CNY 384,800 (approx Rs 46.25 lakh) for top-spec fully electric variant. Called 630 4WD Max EV, this top-spec variant packs a 100 kWh battery with triple motors for a peak power of 952 bhp and 630 km range along with 0-100 km/h sprint in 3.4s.
    BYD Denza Z9 GT Design Patented In India
    In India, we used to get Taycan Cross Turismo, which was an Estate or Shooting Brake version of Taycan. It has been discontinued for some time. If BYD launches Denza Z9 GT in India, it will enjoy a niche. If BYD brought the 630 4WD Max EV variant into our market, it would be the most affordable near 1,000 bhp vehicle ever sold by a long shot, attracting enthusiasts.
    BYD Denza Z9 GT
    There is a base PHEV version for Denza Z9 GT which packs BYD’s DM 5.0 Technology. It consists of a 204 bhp 2.0L IC engine along with a 38.51 kWh Blade battery pack. Pure electric range is 201 km and total system range is 1,100 km. There are three electric motors with combined output of 858 bhp and promises 0-100 km/h sprint in 3.6s.
    BYD Denza Z9 GT Side Profile
    Where dimensions are concerned, BYD Denza Z9 GT PHEV measures 5,195 mm in length, 1,990 mm in width, 1,500 mm in height and has a 3,125 mm long wheelbase. Denza Z9 GT EV version is slightly shorter in length measuring 5,180 mm and shares all of the other dimensions with PHEV version.
    BYD Denza Z9 GT
    ‘Elegance in Motion’ design language
    Denza Z9 GT is based on Elegance In Motion design language. It gets swooping lines and elongated lighting elements, flush door handles, long bonnet, sloping roofline, split roof spoiler, a diffuser, wraparound tail lights, large alloy wheels and more. It has to be noted that BYD Denza Z9 GT design patented in India does not get the optional rear-view cameras.
    BYD Denza Z9 GT
    On the inside, Denza Z9 GT gets 5 displays – 17.3-inch infotainment screen, 13.2-inch screen for instrumentation, 13.2-inch screen for passenger and two displays on door trims to relay rear-view camera feed. There’s also a 50-inch HUD as well. Denza Z9 GT gets electrically operated doors and all seats are electrically operated, heated, ventilated and offer massage.
    BYD Denza Z9 GT
    Other notable elements on the inside include a large panoramic sunroof, exquisite materials, premium audio system with retractable Devialet speaker, extensive sound deadening measure, rear privacy glass, dual 50W wireless charging pads, hidden AC vents, multi-zone climate control, a floating centre console, 4-spoke steering wheel, a 4L refrigerator at the front and 10L refrigerator at the rear, and 128-colour ambient lighting. More

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    TVS Apache RTX 300 ADV Design Trademarked Ahead Of Launch

    TVS Apache RTX 300 ADV Design PatentedAt Auto Expo 2025, TVS Motor briefly showcased its upcoming Apache RTX 300 ADV motorcycle and then took it out of the stage. The keen eyes of Indian automotive fraternity captured images of this motorcycle in production-spec before it happened. Now, TVS Apache RTX 300 launch seems to be nearing as it is patented in India.
    TVS Apache RTX 300 ADV
    This is the first time TVS is venturing into ADV genre and Apache RTX 300 will be their maiden product in this category. The patent design shows that TVS is going for an Adventure Tourer format, instead of an all-out off-roader. This is a rather welcome approach by TVS Motor as it is their first ADV and more off-road worthy products may launch in the future.
    TVS Apache RTX Name Trademarked
    Apache RTX 300 will target both off-road enthusiasts and tourers alike. The motorcycle looks large and accommodating for long journeys. It seems to have an upright riding posture and a tall windscreen (which may be adjustable) to protect riders from windblast. We can see a luggage rack at the rear to accommodate a top box along with multiple provisions to mount luggage.
    Where design is concerned, TVS is going for a semi-fairing with muscular tank extensions that flow into the headlight section. Speaking of headlight, it seems to be a quad barrel LED reflector setup split into two sections (low beam and high beam). Turn indicators are sleek LED units and protrude out of the fairing.
    TVS Apache RTX 300 ADV Design Patented
    Adventure Tourer
    Seat is of split design and has a pronounced step for pillion, offering more comfort. Handlebar are slightly high set, offering a relaxed riding posture for rider. Also, TVS Apache RTX 300 have ORVMs mounted on handlebar and not on its fairing. Rear gets LED tail lights, sleek LED turn indicators and a tyre hugger.
    TVS’ maiden ADV is getting premium components too. We get USD telescopic front forks finished in a lovely Gold shade along with rear mono-shock setup. Front wheel is likely to be 19-inch and rear 17-inch. It gets single petal disc brake setup at both ends and switchable dual channel ABS may be part of the package.
    TVS RT-XD4 Engine
    New RT-XD4 engine
    This motorcycle is expected to be powered by TVS’ new RT-XD4 engine, mated to a slipper clutch, a quickshifter and a 6-speed gearbox. Peak power is around 35 bhp and peak torque is around 28.5 Nm. This is a 299cc engine which is liquid-cooled and could get a DOHC 4V/cylinder head.
    Spy shots have shown a horizontal instrument cluster which might be a colour TFT unit. Bluetooth connectivity along with SmartXonnect app integration might allow music control, notification alerts and even navigation. Launch is likely to happen soon and price could start from around Rs 2.8 lakh (Ex-sh). More

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    Tata Harrier EV Patented – Design Details Revealed Before Launch

    Tata Harrier EV Patented
    Expected to be launched later this year, Tata Harrier EV will primarily challenge Mahindra XEV 9e and BYD Atto 3
    A few days back, Tata Motors had showcased the Harrier EV at its Pune plant. And now, a patent has been filed for Harrier EV. Let’s take a look at some of the key features and design elements.
    Tata Harrier EV – What the patent reveals?
    Similar to the approach followed with other ICE / EV combos from Tata Motors, the Harrier EV has largely the same look and feel as the ICE model. The lighting elements across the front and rear are the same as that of the ICE Harrier. However, the Harrier EV does get some distinctive features. For example, there’s a closed-off grille with horizontal trims and a lower bumper with vertical and diagonal slats. A similar design for the lower bumper can be seen with the Curvv EV as well.
    Tata Harrier EV Patented
    Side profile of Harrier EV has conventional door handles, dual-tone ORVMs with integrated turn signals, blacked-out pillars and body cladding. Running boards are expected to be available as an accessory. What makes the side profile distinctive in comparison to the ICE model is a new aerodynamic design for the alloy wheels. The dual-tone finish with sharp cuts and grooves on the wheels truly enhance the SUVs powerful road presence. One can also see exclusive ‘ev’ badging on the front doors. The ICE model has the ‘Harrier’ badging on the front doors.
    Rear profile is also mostly the same as the ICE Harrier. Some of the key highlights include a shark fin antenna, a roof mounted spoiler, raked windshield, wraparound tail lamps in connected format and a chunky bumper.
    Tata Harrier EV
    Harrier EV interiors
    Inside, the vibes of Harrier EV are quite similar to that of the ICE model. Shared parts include the 12.3-inch freestanding touchscreen infotainment system, a 10.25-inch TFT instrument cluster and wireless Android Auto and Apple CarPlay. Similarities also extend across the centre console, gear selector, rotary dial for the terrain modes and the 4-spoke steering wheel with illuminated Tata logo. Harrier EV also has an electronic parking brake, dual-zone climate control and dual-pane sunroof.
    Tata Harrier EV
    Harrier EV – Exclusive features, performance, range
    With the electric Harrier, vibrations and noise levels inside the cabin will be less. Users can also expect a smoother experience, as Harrier EV will utilize a multi-link suspension. In comparison, the ICE Harrier has a torsion beam rear suspension. A multi-link suspension has better capabilities to absorb imperfections on the roads. Safety aspects such as traction and cornering stability will also be enhanced with a multi-link suspension setup.
    Tata is yet to reveal the detailed specifications of the Harrier EV. In an earlier statement, Tata had said that the Harrier EV will have a range of more than 500 km. The SUV will be available with dual motors in AWD format. Peak torque output will be around 500 Nm. Tata Harrier EV could be launched at a starting price of around Rs 25 lakh. More

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    New KTM Supersport Bike Spied Without Camouflage – Is This RC 160?

    Is this the new KTM RC 160?
    KTM seems to be working on a 160cc platform to position below its 200cc lineup, which might replace its 125cc lineup (125 Duke and RC 125). Speculations suggest the launch of both RC 160 and 160 Duke. A new KTM RC motorcycle has been spied in India, sparking speculations of it being the new KTM RC 160. Let’s take a closer look.
    New KTM RC 160 Spied?
    Team Orange is poised to make major revisions in its Indian portfolio. We’re talking about the phase-out plan of its 125cc lineup (125 Duke and RC 125) and replacing them with more potent motorcycles to directly rival Yamaha’s R15 and MT-15. Bajaj has not officially confirmed these speculations in any capacity.
    However, a recent spy shot shows a KTM RC motorcycle in launch-ready form without any camouflage. It even has graphics and other paraphernalia like a vehicle already launched or about to launch. It features a new colourway with White at the front and Black at the rear and Orange wheels, which KTM currently does not offer with RC 125, RC 200 and RC 390.
    The source of this spy shot mentioned that they witnessed a “RC 160 sticker embossed” on its fairing. If it is to be believed, this is an interesting development where we can see KTM directly taking on Yamaha R15 and MT-15. This duo has been clocking 20K+ sales every month like clockwork and are priced at a premium.
    KTM RC 200 : Image for reference
    What to expect?
    A combination of price and sales potential seems to have attracted KTM India to carve out a new motorcycle below its 200cc portfolio. We can expect both Duke and RC versions of this new platform with premium components. We’re talking about USD front forks, rear mono-shock, premium braking with dual-channel ABS, fat tyres, a quickshifter and more.
    Where pricing is concerned, we can expect it to cost around Rs 2 lakh (Ex-sh). For context, KTM RC 125 is priced at Rs 1.92 lakh (Ex-sh) and RC 200 is priced at Rs 2.21 lakh (Ex-sh), while Yamaha R15 prices start from Rs 1.85 lakh (Ex-sh). Bajaj or KTM India are yet to confirm these developments.
    Where powertrains are concerned, speculations suggest a new 160cc DOHC 4V/cylinder single cylinder liquid cooled engine derived from KTM’s 20cc mill. This engine is expected to deliver a peak power of around 18 bhp and can be mated to a slipper clutch, a quickshifter and a 6-speed gearbox.
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    New Electric Scooter Spied – Is This Affordable Bajaj Chetak?

    Is this the new affordable Bajaj Chetak?Chetak has single handedly propelled Bajaj to the top of the electric two-wheeler segment and more opportunities could be unlocked with newer models
    After achieving leadership position in the electric two-wheeler segment, Bajaj will be looking to further increase its market share. The next phase of growth could be powered by newer, more affordable models. Recent spy shots of a new electric scooter with a new design and dimensions, which could be Bajaj’s new affordable Chetak electric scooter. Let’s find out all that’s new and exciting about the new model spotted on road tests.
    Bajaj new electric scooter – What to expect?
    While the identity of this electric scooter test mule is not confirmed, speculations point towards an affordable Bajaj Chetak, which is currently dominating the segment. This new scooter looks smaller in size too, when compared to Chetak, currently on sale. Bajaj could be on the journey to aggressively expand Chetak portfolio with a smaller and more affordable scooter than current Chetak.
    Bajaj new electric scooter could be offered at a starting price of around Rs 80,000. In comparison, the Chetak range starts at Rs 96,000. Launch could happen by 2025 end or in 2026. Bajaj has a slew of names registered in India and one of them might make it to this scooter. These include Technik, Tecnica, Zinger, Bomber, Elixir, Aura and more. Or we can see it as Chetak XXXX, bearing a smaller number than current base model, Chetak 2903.
    Retro vibes, as seen with Bajaj Chetak, are there with the new model as well. It has circular headlamps, oval rear-view mirrors and a broad front fender. It is possible that the scooter could be using a circular instrument console, something similar to that of Chetak. There are likely to be other retro design elements too, but difficult to peek through the heavy camouflage.
    Is this the new affordable Bajaj Chetak?
    Hardware that can be seen includes alloy wheels (likely to be 12-inch units) and dual rear shock absorbers. Braking setup comprises a front disc brake, whereas the rear could get a drum setup. While Chetak has dual tail lamp design, this new model can be seen with a single-piece tail lamp format. Dimensionally, the new Bajaj electric scooter seems to have a more compact profile in comparison to Chetak. That makes it suitable for handling the heavy traffic seen in urban centres.
    Performance, range
    Assuming that this new Bajaj electric scooter will be affordably priced, its performance could be relatively lower. It could use a smaller capacity battery pack, resulting in a lower range. For context, Chetak base variant (2903) is offered with a 2.9 kWh battery pack. It has a range of 123 km.
    The top Chetak variants, 3501 and 3502, are equipped with a 3.5 kWh battery pack. They have a range of 153 km. Top speed could also be lower for the upcoming Bajaj electric scooter. Chetak base variant has a top speed of 63 km/h, whereas top variants can reach 73 km/h.
    Is this the new affordable Bajaj Chetak?
    No-frills scooter
    While Chetak has a mid-mounted motor, the new scooter is expected to use a hub-mounted motor. The latter uses less components and is relatively cheaper to manufacture. Such changes will reduce production cost, allowing Bajaj to launch the new scooter at an affordable price.
    With focus on targeting the entry-level electric scooter segment, the new Bajaj scooter could also be missing out on some of the premium features. For example, the colour LCD instrument panel of Chetak could be replaced with a negative LCD display. Base variants of the new scooter could also get fewer connectivity features in comparison to the options available with Chetak.
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    2025 Hyosung Aquila 125cc Bobber Launch Price EUR 4,699 (Rs 4.42 L)

    2025 Hyosung Aquila GV125 X BlackIndian motorcycling fraternity is no stranger to Hyosung brand, which briefly operated in the country under the strategic partnership with DSK. From Hyosung, we had the Aquila lineup in India consisting of Aquila GV250 and Aquila Pro GV650. In Germany, Hyosung just launched GV125 X, which has seen a major design transformation of this Bobber style motorcycle.
    2025 Hyosung Aquila GV125 X
    The 125cc Aquila cruiser motorcycle, called GV125 S, is a popular offering in markets like Germany as a beginner motorcycle. Now, South Korean brand Hyosung has introduced a new version of GV125 for 2025 model year. Called Hyosung Aquila GV125 X, this motorcycle has been transformed in terms of design and bears a much youthful appeal.
    2025 Hyosung Aquila GV125 X
    When compared to GV125 S, 2025 Hyosung Aquila GV125 X is a much more special motorcycle, bearing a Bobber style. In Germany, Hyosung Aquila GV125 X is priced at EUR 4,699 (approx Rs 4.42 lakh) and it gets quite a lot of elements as standard fitment. There are two colour options – Titan Glossy and Black.
    In Germany, Aquila GV125 X is popular as a beginner motorcycle as it can be used by individuals above 16 years with A1 class driving license and with the extension of car driver’s license class B196. In Germany, GV125 S usually fares in the country’s top 20 new motorcycle registrations.
    2025 Hyosung Aquila GV125 X
    Bobber Style
    Notable elements are the shiny engine casing, a 2-in-2 exhaust system, dual-tone cast aluminium wheels, fat tyres (120-section front and 150-section rear), a chiseled 14L fuel tank with Hyosung logo, single disc brakes at both ends with ABS, single-piece seat, LED lighting all around, low set handlebar, bar-end mirrors, USD front forks and more.
    It is an absolute style statement and gets a Muscle Bike look. The main highlight continues to be its powertrain. Which is a 125cc V-Twin engine with a 60-degree cylinder angle. This engine gets a 3V/cylinder SOHC head and is a liquid-cooled unit. It is capable of generating 14 bhp of peak power and is Euro-5+ emission compliant.
    2025 Hyosung Aquila GV125 X
    The power is sent to rear wheels via a belt drive. Top-speed is 100 km/h on this motorcycle. Hyosung Aquila GV125 X weighs 172 kg and the company promises 2.8L / 100 km fuel efficiency rating, which turns out to be around 35.7 km/l. This is good for around 500 km tank range. More

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    Tata Harrier EV Interiors Revealed Ahead Of Launch – What All Is New?

    Tata Harrier EV Interiors RevealedAhead of its official launch, Tata Motors recently showcased Harrier EV at their Pune manufacturing facility. There were a couple of stunts demonstrated as well, performed by trained personnel. In that teaser video, Tata has also showcased bits and pieces of Harrier EV’s interiors, lending us an idea of what to expect from their upcoming flagship electric SUV.
    Tata Harrier EV Interiors Revealed
    In their latest teaser, Tata Motors revealed production spec version of Harrier EV to the world after its global premier at Auto Expo 2025. At their Pune facility, the company even demonstrated Harrier EV’s agility and performance in a slew of co-ordinated stunts. When launched, Tata Harrier EV will rival Mahindra’s XEV 9e.
    Tata Harrier EV Interiors
    For the first time, we can see a glimpse of Tata Harrier EV production version’s interiors as seen in their latest teaser. For starters, we would say that Harrier EV stays very close to, if not, identical to Harrier ICE’s interiors. That’s because Harrier EV borrows almost every single element we have seen with Harrier ICE.
    It gets the same 12.3-inch free-standing infotainment screen which is capable of wireless Android Auto and Apple CarPlay along with the same 10.25-inch TFT instrument cluster which boasts advanced functions including full-screen map view. Along with these, Harrier EV also gets the same centre console as Harrier ICE.
    Tata Harrier EV Interiors
    We can see the same stylish and chunky gear selector and a rotary dial to control the new and improved Terrain Modes. Steering wheel is also the same 4-spoke unit with an illuminated Tata logo and steering mounted controls. Touch and toggle type panel for dual-zone climate control, electronic parking brake and dual pane sunroof are also the same.
    What are the changes?
    Where we can expect changes are in EV specific graphics running on Harrier EV’s infotainment and instrument screens. Harrier EV’s cabin will be much quieter owing to its electric powertrain and occupants inside Harrier EV will be more comfortable as it gets independent suspension at the rear, which Harrier ICE miss out on.
    Tata Harrier EV Interiors
    Exterior design stays more or less the same as Harrier ICE, a strategy which Tata has used on all of its EVs. Powertrain-wise, there are no definitive numbers disclosed by the company. However, the company has promised a range of 500+ km on a single charge and 500 Nm of peak torque from Harrier EV dual motor AWD version. More