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      TVS Norton Combat Trademarked In India – Royal Enfield 350 Rival?

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      Upcoming TVS cruiser motorcycle – Design patent leaksRoyal Enfield’s dominance in the 350cc segment has been the envy of many OEMs – Soon there could be a new rival from TVSAs of now, Royal Enfield enjoys an unrivalled dominance in 350cc space with unprecedented popularity. Honda, Bajaj, Jawa, and Yezdi brands have tried their luck at rivaling Royal Enfield but results are not very prominent. Now, Royal Enfield will face rivalry from two international legacy brands in the form of Harley-Davidson X440 and Triumph Speed 400.Speed 400 looks the most promising at the price of Rs. 2.33 lakh (ex-sh) to make a dent in Royal Enfield’s armour. Is Norton the next international legacy brand in the race to rival Royal Enfield? This seems to be possible as TVS-owned Norton Motorcycles has trademarked Combat name in India.TVS trademarks Norton Combat name in IndiaTVS Norton Combat trademarked in IndiaNorton is a British brand with a rich 125 years of motorcycling legacy to look back upon. TVS Motor Company currently is the parent company to this Solihull, UK-based motorcycle brand. As of now, Norton currently has two powertrains and it sells three motorcycles with these powertrains.Commando 961 is a cafe-racer-style motorcycle with a 961cc parallel-twin with an old-school push rod configuration and oil-cooling. V4CR and V4SV are much more modern in their construction and both feature a 74-degree 1200cc V4 engine with a DOHC configuration and gets liquid-cooling too.V4CR is a street fighter and V4SV gets full fairing. If Norton Combat is a Royal Enfield rival from TVS for both Indian and global markets, it will very well feature a single-cylinder engine. SOHC or DOHC layout with 4 valves per cylinder along with liquid-cooling and 6-speed gearbox is likely too. Displacement could be anywhere between 300cc to 500cc.What to expect?Design will probably take a lot of inspiration from Commando 961. There could be variations in it to carve out a cruiser and a cafe racer body style as well. Commando 961 is a gorgeous motorcycle that captivates retro styling and radiates an old-school aura.If TVS is positioning Norton Combat to rival Royal Enfield, these attributes will come in handy. TVS filed the Norton Combat trademark way back in 2020. But it seems to be “Accepted & Advertised” recently as the journal date reads 03/07/2023.Currently, TVS has Ronin on offer in India which seems to be primarily targeting Hunter 350. Maybe TVS will re-utilise Ronin’s 225.9cc engine that generates 20.1 bhp of power and 19.9 Nm of torque, mated to a 6-speed gearbox. This is possible too. More

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      Bajaj Sales Breakup June 2023 – Pulsar, Platina, Chetak, CT, Avenger

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      Bajaj PulsarBajaj Auto had the Pulsar as its most sold model in domestic markets while it was the Boxer that captured buyer’s attention in export marketBajaj Auto ended June 2023 with total two wheeler sales (domestic + exports) at 2,81,585 units. This was a YoY de-growth from 3,07,084 units sold in June 2022 relating to a volume decline by 25,499 units. While the company has posted increased sales in domestic markets with almost all models showing off a YoY growth, exports have fallen significantly with every model in the company lineup ending in the red.Total sales (domestic + exports) had stood at 2,97,733 units in May 2023. Bajaj Auto 2 wheeler sales in domestic markets stood at 1,60,410 units in June 2023 up 29.66 percent as against 1,23,719 units sold in June 2022. This was a volume growth of 36,691 units.Bajaj Auto Domestic Sales June 2023The domestic sales list was headed by Bajaj Pulsar with 1,07,208 units sold in the past month, up 28.05 percent from 83,723 units sold in June 2022. Currently commanding a 66.83 percent share on this list, the Pulsar was also at No. 3 on the list of top 10 best-selling motorcycles in June 2023 after the Hero Splendor and Honda Shine.In the Pulsar lineup, it was the Pulsar 125cc that garnered the most attention with 67,134 units sold last month, up 30.22 percent from 51,554 units sold in June 2022. Pulsar 150cc sales however dipped 2.05 percent to 16,628 units while Pulsar 200 and 250cc saw increased demand with 16,296 units and 7,150 units sold respectively.Bajaj Domestic 2W Sales Breakup June 2023Platina sales also increased 31.80 percent to 36,550 units in June 2023 from 27,732 units sold in the same month last year to command a 22.79 percent share on the company list. Sales increased by 186.76 percent YoY for Bajaj Chetak e-scooter to 7,080 units, up from 2,469 units sold in June 2022. CT sales also improved in domestic markets by 163.57 percent to 6,360 units in June 2023 from 2,413 units sold in June 2022 with 4,608 units of the 110cc variant and 1,752 units of CT125cc sold during the month.Bajaj Avenger sales dipped 70.07 percent YoY to 2,076 units, down from 6,936 units sold in June 2022 while Dominar sales improved by 154.71 percent to 1,136 units last month. Dominar 250cc and 500cc each had 509 units and 627 units sold respectively.Bajaj Auto Exports Led by Boxer in June 2023With every model in the company lineup posting YoY de-growth, exports of Bajaj Auto stood at 1,21,175 units in June 2023. This was a YoY de-growth of 33.92 percent when compared to 1,83,365 units sold in June 2022 relating to a 62,190 unit dip in volumes.Bajaj 2W Exports Breakup June 2023Bajaj Boxer commanded the list with 71,021 units shipped in June 2023, down 24.42 percent from 93,962 units exported in June 2022. The Boxer commanded a 58.61 percent share in the export list. Maximum demand was seen for the Boxer 110cc with 56,960 units shipped last month while there were also 7,587 units of the Boxer 125cc and 6,474 units of Boxer 150cc exported in June 2023. Pulsar exports dipped by 37.50 percent YoY to 25,130 units from 40,205 units exported in June 2022. This included 17,566 units of Pulsar 200cc, 3,270 units of Pulsar 250cc, 2,902 units of Pulsar 125cc and 1,392 units of Pulsar 150cc.Even as Bajaj CT exports dipped 47.55 percent YoY to 13,191 units from 25,152 units sold in June 2023, it saw increased demand for its 150cc model, exports of which improved 300 percent to 1,152 units in June 2023 from 288 units shipped in June 2022. Exports also fell for the Discover (5,024 units) and Dominar (4,736 units), Dominar 250cc saw increased demand by 9.94 percent to 2,190 units in June 2023 from 1,992 units sold in June 2022. Exports of Platina (1,809 units) and Avenger (264 units) fell 17.40 percent and 65.63 percent respectively. More

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      Hero Karizma XMR New Details Revealed Ahead Of Launch

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      New Hero Karizma XMR 210Upcoming Karizma XMR has potential to emerge a bestseller by offering an optimal mix of performance and affordabilityHero MotoCorp is bringing back the Karizma, which was once hugely popular for its sporty profile and powerful performance. The new Karizma XMR is scheduled to debut on August 29. It is expected to be offered in the price range of Rs 1.5 lakh to Rs 1.8 lakh, ex-sh.Earlier this month, a design patent of Hero Karizma XMR had revealed the top-side view of the bike. Now, some more patent images have leaked online. These are of individual components, which reveal the finer details of the bike.New Hero Karizma DetailsHero Karizma XMR new details emergeNew patent images reveal the design of Karizma’s LED headlight casing, front cowl and instrument console. LED headlamp casing has a curvy V-shaped design, with dual-projector LED lights in the centre. The unit appears pretty large, which will help achieve a prominent profile for the front fascia. The dual LED setup will also ensure improved illumination, thereby enhancing safety in dark conditions.Talking about the front cowl, it has a sharp, sporty profile. It complements the bike’s overall look and feel. A compact windscreen further enhances the bike’s look, while being functionally relevant. Patent images also reveal the panel of the new fully digital instrument console. It is a rectangular unit, with bevelled lower corners. Flaking the digital screen are spaces for indicators on both sides. These are likely for turn signals, side stand indicator, neutral, ABS, etc.New Hero Karizma DetailsOther details about new Karizma revealed earlier include the pulled-back handlebar, body-hugging fairing, sculpted fuel tank, split seat design and stubby upswept exhaust. Portions of the frame and engine assembly are exposed, which helps achieve a sinewy profile for the bike. New Karizma appears to have an aerodynamic design, which can boost both performance and fuel efficiency.New Hero Karizma DetailsHero Karizma XMR engine, specsIt is likely that Karizma XMR will be aiming for best-in-class performance or somewhere close to that. Some of the key rivals will be Bajaj Pulsar RS200 and Suzuki Gixxer SF 250. For reference, Pulsar RS200 is powered by a 199.5 cc, liquid cooled, triple-spark 4-valve engine that generates 24.5 PS of max power and 18.7 Nm of peak torque. Gixxer SF250 has a 249 cc, oil cooled motor that makes 26.5 PS and 22.2 Nm. According to industry insiders, Karizma XMR could be generating around 25 PS and 25 Nm. It is expected to get a 6-speed gearbox.Hero is likely to equip Karizma with Bluetooth-based connectivity features. It will be made available via Hero Connect platform. As of now, Hero Connect is offered with products such as Xpulse 200, Xtreme 160R, Destini 125 and Pleasure Plus. Some of the key connectivity features include topple alert, live vehicle tracking, tow away alert, geo fence alert, last parking location and speed alert. More

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      TVS XL Electric Design Patent Leaks – Rival To Kinetic Luna EV

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      Modified TVS XL Electric image for illustration purpose. Credit – Jayanta TechThe battery on TVS XL Electric could be enough to travel 60 km of range on a single rangeIndian 2W EV space has seen unprecedented growth in the past couple of years. Not only is EV making a lot of noise in mainstream passenger vehicle space, but in commercial 2W space too. There are more new entrants in commercial 2W EV space now, more than ever.Now, TVS wants a piece of this pie as well. TVS already makes XL 100 which is an ICE commercial workhorse. But TVS also makes iQube range of electric scooters. When both these ideologies fuse together, we get TVS XL Electric, which the company has patented in India.TVS XL Electric Design Patent LeaksTVS XL Electric Patented In IndiaAs of now, TVS only has a iQube lineup in its electric portfolio. There is a new 2W EV that the company is set to launch or unveil in August. This is likely to be a more high-end electric scooter, most likely something based on the Creon design concept.Sticking with XL Electric, it bears semblance with XL 100 ICE moped. We can’t call this a moped, though. Because there are no pedals on this. Construction is very minimal and follows the footsteps of XL 100. There is a central spine tubular chassis. This patent drawing doesn’t show body panels.With XL 100, the front apron area was its fuel tank. That is not necessary anymore. So, this area is empty. Where a petrol engine was, with XL 100, is now where batteries are. TVS could have gone with a hub motor, but has chosen to go with a mid-mounted setup. What looks like a chain drive, sends power to the rear wheel.Maybe TVS went with a mid-mounted motor because of pedals in the future? Motor position is perfect for pedal integration too. We say this because hub motors are generally less sophisticated and less expensive and are the preferred choice in economic and budget builds.What to expect?There are split seats. Rear seat should have a removable function to accommodate luggage. Headlights look identical to XL 100. There are RSU telescopic front forks and dual-shock absorbers in the back. Drum brakes do duties here. Battery and motor should eke out around 60 km of range on a single charge.TVS XL Electric could be an ideal vehicle for last-mile delivery businesses with both B2B and B2C models. That said, this design patent has a saree guard too. This could indicate that TVS is eying private buyers as well. More details will follow when TVS unveils it. Upon launch, it will take on the likes of Kinetic Luna electric, which is also nearing launch.Source More

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      Hero Xtreme 200S 2V Discontinued From Portfolio – Now 4V Only

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      Hero Xtreme 200S 2VAhead of the launch of new gen Karizma next month, Hero MotoCorp has discontinued the 2V version of Xtreme 200SHero MotoCorp is one of the largest 2W manufacturers in the world. Most of their sales are thanks to budget commuters like Splendor range. That said, Hero is now increasing focus on larger cc motorcycles.In recent times, they have launched 2023 Xpulse 200 4V and Xpulse 200 4V Pro, Xpulse 200T 4V, Xtreme 160R 4V and Xtreme 200S 4V. They have also launched X440 in association with Harley Davidson. Next they plan to launch new gen Karizma.Hero Xtreme 200S 4V coloursHero Xtreme 200S 2V discontinuedEarlier this month, Hero launched Xtreme 200S 4V with a new and more powerful engine setup along with improved braking setup. Adding sporty credentials were 6% more power and 5% more torque as opposed to the 2V model. The 4V head ensured a higher number of lighter and smaller valves that increased reliability as well. Better valve control ensures increased fuel efficiency too.Xtreme 200S 4V launched at Rs. 1.41 lakh (ex-sh) price tag. Surprisingly, Hero kept the old 2V model on sale until now. It has now been removed from the official website. It is likely that Hero kept the 2V model on sale till now to clear existing stock.Hero Xtreme 200S 4VWe saw a similar strategy when Hero launched Xpulse 200 4V. Now, Hero has taken Xtreme 200S 2V from the website and Xtreme 200S 4V is now the only fully-faired offering from the brand. It features an appealing fairing and looks sporty, especially with new colours on offer.Hero Xtreme 200S 4V specsXtreme 200S 4V model on saleFeatures include an LED headlight, LED tail light, a fully digital instrument cluster, Bluetooth connectivity, smartphone connectivity, call alerts, notification alerts, turn-by-turn navigation and others. Componentry include RSU telescopic front forks, mono-shock rear suspension, 100/80-17 front tyre and 130/70-17 rear tyre.Fuel tank capacity is 12.8L, which should offer a decent tank range from the new and improved engine. Speaking of, this 199.6cc 4V engine now makes 19.1 PS of power and 17.35 Nm of torque and is mated to a 5-speed gearbox. Panther Black Metallic, Mat Axis Grey Metallic and Moon Yellow are colour options. Hero MotoCorp is prepping to launch new Karizma XMR 210 on 29th Aug 2023. It will sit above Xtreme 200S 4V. More

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      Ola S1 Air Price Increase From 31st July – By Rs 10,000

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      Ola S1 Air Introductory pricesThe purchase window for Ola S1 Air introductory price of Rs. 1,09,999 (ex-sh), opens on 28th July and stays till 31st of JulyThe Bengaluru-based electric mobility startup has created quite a niche for itself. Result is Ola is now highest-selling 2W EV brand in India. Recent reduction in FAME II scheme subsidy rates has wreaked havoc on 2W EV makers. Ola is no different. This necessitates launching less expensive models with smaller batteries for damage control and retaining sales.Ola S1 Air is that vehicle for the company. It is quoting an attractive Rs. 1,09,999 introductory price (ex-sh). For this price, Ola seems to be offering a 3 kWh battery and a touchscreen as well. The hub motor and conventional forks and rear suspension along with drum brakes are some of major cost-cutting measures.2023 Ola S1 Electric Scooter LineupOla S1 Air Introductory Price Rs. 1.1 LakhThis is a bargain value and almost feels unreal. Ola promised three variants with S1 Air. A 2 kWh battery model, 3 kWh battery model and a 4 kWh battery model. But now, there seems to be just one S1 Air variant that the company is currently offering. Other two variants will probably go on sale later.With this sole variant, Ola claims 125 km of range from a single charge and 90 km/h top speed. This points towards the 3 kWh model. While the 2 kWh model promised 85 km of range and the 4 kWh model promised 165 km of range. But in previous presentations, Ola mentioned S1 Air top speed is 85 km/h with all battery variants. Now, Ola has increased S1 Air top speed to 90 km/h.Ola price hike incomingThe purchase window for Ola S1 Air opens on 28th July. Introductory prices of Rs. 1,09,999 are only limited to all orders made on July 28th. All the purchase orders made from 31st July onwards will not benefit from introductory prices and will cost Rs. 1,19,999. Hat tip to automotive enthusiast Enrico D’mello for sharing the update.What’s the confusion?We will quote Ola Electric’s words here. “Purchase window opens on 28th July”. “The price (introductory) is only valid if you reserve before 28th July”. “31st July onwards, S1 Air will be available for Rs. 1,19,999”. You must be slightly confused too.As of now, Ola’s website has “Order” option and “Reserve” and they both lead to the same bookings page. To get introductory pricing between 28th to 31st July, Ola wants customers to have reserved their S1 Air before 28th July. Only then will they get lower introductory pricing.If prospective buyers haven’t reserved their Ola S1 Air before 28th and then proceed to place an order between 28th to 31st July to attain introductory pricing, they will have to pay the full fat Rs. 1,19,999 (ex-sh). Just like buyers placing orders after 31st July. So, we would recommend reserving now and placing an order when the purchase window opens on 28th July to get introductory pricing. More

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      2024 Honda X-ADV Scooter Launch Price GBP 11.2k (Rs 11.77 Lakh)

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      2024 Honda X-ADV launchedThe 745cc parallel twin engine on 2024 Honda X-ADV is in the same tune as before – Makes 58 bhp and 69 NmThe radicalisation of the scooter segment is no new story. We have seen multiple new genres within scooter segments. One of utmost appeal seems to be the ADV scooter segment which has seen more entrants now, than ever before. Honda is no stranger to ADV scooters.Honda’s creme-de-la-creme ADV scooter X-ADV with a 750cc parallel-twin engine is now brought to MY2024. Honda’s new naming strategy dictates this scooter as 2024 X-ADV. Even though India will never witness X-ADV launch, it is an interesting proposition nonetheless. Let’s take a look at what’s new and what’s not.2024 Honda X-ADV with Travel pack2024 Honda X-ADV – The ultimate ADV of scootersFor starters, there is not a lot new with 2024 Honda X-ADV. Except for the new colours, of-course. It now gets a red and silver combination colourway that Honda calls Grand Prix Red. This combination gets Red majorly in the front and rear subframe and other areas get Black. Iridium Grey Metallic is an interesting colour with Grey base shade and neon yellow highlights.Matte Ballistic Matte Metallic is the stealthiest of the bunch with a Black shade throughout and silver engine casing. Lastly, we have Paco Blue which looks the most intriguing off the bunch, it has a faded teal shade and the rear subframe gets Black shade. Only Paco Blue and Matte Ballistic Black Metallic shade gets USD forks in gold shade.2024 Honda X-ADV FeaturesWhile Iridium Grey Metallic and Grand Prix Red get Black USD front forks. Speaking of forks, the 2024 Honda X-ADV gets USD front forks and a rear mono-shock unit. It is a non-step-through scooter with a spine in the middle. This is where the fuel tank is and it liberates 21L of underseat storage and a smart top box is optional too.The most striking scooter in the world?In terms of design, 2024 Honda X-ADV is macho and packs a lot of muscle. It has a smart front fairing that should provide decent wind protection. Fascia has a dual LED headlight, sharp LED DRLs, and a lot of mean attitude. Handlebar is upright and ensures a comfortable seating posture.Honda offers ride-by-wire throttle with five riding modes namely Standard, Sport, Rain, Gravel and User. Last option allows customisation as well. Just like Honda Activa and recent Dio, X-ADV also packs a smart key. Honda offers 17” front and 15” rear wire-spoke wheels and dual disc setup at front and single disc setup at the rear.2024 Honda X-ADV ColoursThe engine is a 745cc parallel-twin unit with 4 valves per cylinder. This engine packs around 58 bhp of power and 69 Nm of torque. Transmission is a 6-speed dual clutch transmission that enables manual shifts via trigger shifters in the left switchgear. Pricing in the UK starts from around GBP 11,199 which roughly translates to Rs. 11.77 lakh in today’s conversion rates. If you wanna wait to buy it in India, chances are probably close to 0%. More

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      Zero Electric Motorcycles India Launch Confirmed – Via Hero MotoCorp

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      Zero Electric Motorcycle India Launch ConfirmedPartnership with entities like Zero Motorcycles allows Hero MotoCorp to be future-ready and diversify its EV portfolioWhile Hero MotoCorp leads in ICE-segment, it is yet to show any significant progress in EV segment. Vida electric scooter has potential, but sales haven’t been as per expectations. Nonetheless, Hero has been working on a multi-pronged strategy to strengthen its position in EV segment.One of the key focus areas is establishing partnerships with leading players in EV space. Hero already has a 35% stake in Ather Energy. Another key collaborator is California-based Zero Motorcycles that manufactures a wide range of high-performance electric bikes. Last year, Hero MotoCorp had announced an investment worth $60 million (approx. Rs 491 crore) in Zero Motorcycles.Zero Electric MotorcycleZero electric motorcycles to launch in India soonHero MotoCorp’s annual report confirms that enthusiasts in India will soon have access to high-performance electric machines produced by Zero Motorcycles. However, an exact timeline is not available at this point of time. But looking at the fast-paced growth in electric two-wheeler segment, it is highly probable that Hero will be looking to introduce Zero electric bikes as soon as possible.Hero will be aiming to get the first-mover advantage, as currently there aren’t many players in premium electric motorcycle segment. One example is TVS-backed Ultraviolette Automotive that manufactures the premium F77 electric bike. It is likely that Hero will focus on the premium segment as well as introduce more affordable versions for Indian market. The latter can be targeted at specific overseas markets as well. We are already witnessing this strategy in action with bikes like Harley X440 and upcoming Nightster 440.Zero Electric Motorcycle India Launch ConfirmedHero’s partnership with Zero Motorcycles will allow access to world-class electric powertrains and electric two-wheeler products. Hero will contribute by leveraging its low-cost manufacturing prowess and its vast sales and service network. This partnership is an important step in Hero’s sustainable mobility journey. Such collaborations will help accelerate adoption of electric mobility in India and across overseas markets.Upcoming Zero electric motorcycles for IndiaSelecting the bikes relevant for Indian market can be a bit challenging. One reason is that Zero Motorcycles offers a wide range of Street and Dual-Sport options. Decision making can be simplified if the direct import route is chosen. However, such a system will make the bikes hugely expensive and inaccessible to a large segment of potential buyers. It appears that local sourcing and local manufacturing can work, which is where Hero is likely to focus.It remains to be seen how many compromises will be made to achieve an affordable price point. In their original form, Zero electric motorcycles offer world-class ride experience. An example is Zero SR/S that generates 110 hp of peak power and 190 Nm of max torque. The electric motor gets its power from a 17.3 kWh battery pack. Range is an impressive 187 miles (301 km) in City conditions. Max top speed and sustained top speed are rated at 124 mph (200 km/h) and 110 mph (177 km/h), respectively.Zero electric motorcycles have batteries with 7.2 kWh to 17.3 kWh capacity. These bikes are priced in the range of $13,000 to $25,000, which is around Rs 10.64 lakh to Rs 20.46 lakh. It remains to be seen what strategies Hero deploys to achieve a lower price point for Indian market. More