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      New Aprilia SR GT 125cc ADV Scooter Debuts At EICMA 2021

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      New Aprilia SR GT ADV ScooterAprilia SR GT is expected to go on sale in select international markets, launch in India remains uncertain as of now
      While adventure bikes in recent years have turned out to be the new blue-eyed boys in the global motorcycling community, it is time for scooter lovers to get a taste of adventure as well. At the ongoing edition of EICMA, a couple of ADV scooters made their maiden appearance, the most prominent of all being a 350cc ADV scooter from Honda.
      The list gets longer with Aprilia revealing not one but two adventure scooters at the biennial auto event. Unlike the ADV from Honda, the scooters from Aprilia are entry-level models and will serve a wider range of consumers. Called SR GT, the Italian brand has described the model as an ‘urban adventure scooter’.
      Aprilia SR GT – Design
      Starting with their design, the SR GT twins draw inspiration from other Aprilia models with a few elements borrowed from the SXR range. In true essence, SR GT is a Maxi scooter with an ADV-like stance. This translates to edgy styling with signature tri-LED headlights upfront on the apron.
      Other typical ADV elements include a smoked windscreen on top of the apron and a front-heavy faired body. Like most Maxi scooters, SR GT doesn’t feature a flat floorboard with the transmission tunnel running down its spine. The silver-coloured footrests extend to double up as bash plates for undercarriage protection. The single-piece saddle provides lumbar support to the rider.
      New Aprilia SR GT ADV Scooter
      At rear, the flat tail section features a single-piece grab rail along with a sharp LED taillight. SR GT can be had in three colour options namely Aprilia Black, Street Grey and Infinity Blue. Those wanting even sportier paint schemes can opt for the more premium Sport trim which offers three different liveries like Street Grey, Red Raceway, and Street Gold.
      To complement the sporty attire, SR GT gets a premium red-stitched seat cover along with the red alloy wheels. The alloys are shod with knobby dual-purpose tyres, commonly seen in adventure tourers to take on rough roads. In fact, a wide handlebar, increased ground clearance and long-travel suspension are all inspirations taken from contemporary ADVs.
      Mechanical Specs
      Underpinned by a double cradle chassis, the frame sits on 33mm telescopic forks upfront and twin shock absorbers at rear, both derived from Showa. Braking duties will be carried out by petal-shaped discs with 260mm and 220mm rotors at front and rear respectively. The SR GT twins ride on 14-inch front and 13-inch rear wheels.
      SR GT will be available in two derivatives- SR GT 125 and SR GT 200. The former is powered by a 125cc, single-cylinder engine that pushes out 14.75 bhp at 8,750rpm and peak torque of 12Nm at 6,500rpm. The latter, on the other hand, features a 174cc, single-cylinder unit that kicks out 17.43 bhp at 8,500rpm and 16.5Nm at 7,000rpm. Both cooters tip the weighing scales at 144kg and 148kg respectively. More

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      Suzuki Sales Breakup Oct 2021 – Access, Burgman, Gixxer, Intruder

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      Image – Sinha SuzukiSuzuki found its Access scooter most in demand in domestic markets commanding 82 percent of sales while the Gixxer had most buyers in export markets
      The two wheeler industry continues to battle challenges in view of the ongoing pandemic while the segment is also affected due to rising fuel prices and input costs along with supply chain disruptions. Suzuki Motorcycle India, SMIPL, posted a 15.53 percent decline in domestic sales to 56,785 units in October 2021. The company had sold 67,225 units in the same month last year. MoM domestic sales however, noted a marginal increase by 2.12 percent over 55,608 units sold in September 2021.
      Suzuki Sales Breakup Oct 2021 – Access Tops
      Domestic sales for October 2021 saw the Access scooter in top form despite an 11.42 percent YoY de-growth. The Access was also the third bestselling scooter in India following the Activa and Jupiter. Sales in the past month stood at 46,450 units, down from 52,441 units sold in October 2020. MoM sales performed better with a 3.13 percent growth over 45,040 units sold in September 2021. Share in the company lineup increased marginally from 81 percent held in September 2021 to 81.80 percent in the past month.
      At No. 2 was the Suzuki Burgman. Posting a YoY de-growth of 32.17 percent, sales dipped to 7,199 units last month from 10,613 units sold in October 2020. MoM sales also dipped 16.96 percent over 8,669 units sold in September 2021.
      Suzuki Gixxer and Gixxer 250 posted a 15.19 percent and 57.43 percent YoY decline in sales to 2,775 units and 255 units respectively in October 2021. MoM sales however improved for the Gixxer up 107.09 percent over 1,340 units sold in September 2021 while Gixxer 250 sales dipped 16.94 percent over 307 unit sold in September 2021.
      Suzuki Sales, Exports Oct 2021 vs Oct 2020 (YoY)
      Sales in domestic markets for the Suzuki Intruder dipped 77 percent YoY and 69.74 percent on a MoM basis. Sales stood at 69 units last month from 300 units sold in October 2020 and from 228 units sold in September 2021. Suzuki V-Strom 650 sales stood at 13 units in October 2021.
      Suzuki Two Wheeler Exports Oct 2021
      In terms of exports, the company performed better in a YoY basis with a 28.64 percent growth reported. Sales which had stood at 9,640 units in October 2020 increased to 12,401 units in the past month. MoM exports however remained flat with 12,404 units shipped in September 2021.
      In export markets, it was the Gixxer that found most demand. Sales increased 29.31 percent YoY to 6,092 units, up from 4,711 units sold in October 2020 and currently commanding a share of 49.13 percent. However sales in September 2021 had stood at 6,406 units relating to a de-growth of 4.92 percent while share had stood at 51.65 percent.
      Suzuki Sales, Exports Oct 2021 vs Sep 2021 (MoM)
      Suzuki Burgman posted YoY and MoM growth. Sales increased 225.52 percent YoY to 5,000 units over 1,536 units sold in October 2020. MoM sales surged 50.65 percent over 3,319 units sold in September 2021.
      Thereafter, the Gixxer 250 (380 units), Hayate (498 units), Access (257 units) and Lets (0 units) all posted YoY and MoM de-growth. Suzuki Intruder was in more demand with a 64.15 percent YoY growth to 174 units shipped last month over 106 units exported in October 2020. MoM exports also increased 89.13 percent over 92 units shipped in September 2021.
      Suzuki Avenis has just been launched in India which could boost sales in the coming months. It is the company’s third offering in the 125cc scooter market, following the Access 125 and Burgman Street 125. The Avenis is based on the Access 125 platform and gets its power via a 125cc engine that makes 8.7hp and 10Nm. More

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      TVS Plans Rs 1,200 Cr Investment For Upcoming Electric Motorcycles, EVs

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      TVS electric motorcycle render. Credit – Abin DesignsThe latest MoU between TVS and Tamil Nadu will have a significant beneficial effect on small and medium industries directly or indirectly associated with TVS
      TVS Motor has taken a giant leap towards electrification. The company has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the government of Tamil Nadu. According to the MoU, TVS will be investing a whopping Rs 1,200 crore over a period of four years in the electric vehicle (EV) space in the state.
      The MoU was signed at the Tamil Nadu Investment Conclave 2021 in Coimbatore in the presence of Chief Minister of Tamil Nadu, M K Stalin and Venu Srinivasan, Chairman, TVS Motor Company. The investment will cater to building EVs and developments of future technologies in the electric mobility space.
      TVS Upcoming Electric Vehicles – New EV factory
      A majority of this investment will be spent on building a new manufacturing facility in the state which will specifically cater to design, development and manufacturing of new products and capacity expansion in the EV space. The investment also reflects TVS’ continued commitment towards the state’s overall economic growth as a responsible corporate citizen.
      TVS stated that it is transforming itself into a digital age company with a connected, sustainable and electric brand. The company is committed to leading the technology development in EV and green fuel and leading the way to the electrification of the two-wheeler segment in the country.
      TVS Creon Electric Scooter Concept
      This development comes after Ola Electric made a swashbuckling entry into the country’s EV space earlier this year with a new Futurefactory, which is the world’s largest electric two-wheeler manufacturing facility.
      TVS might retail its future battery-powered models in a separate vertical dedicated to EVs. TVS reportedly has plans to launch a range of new electric vehicles including scooters, motorcycles, three wheelers, etc in the coming years. All these are expected to be manufactured at this new plant.
      TVS iQube- Mechanical Specs & Features
      Currently, TVS has only one EV offering in the form of iQube electric scooter in its entire lineup. Initially launched in January last year, the e-scooter is now available in many cities across the country. Priced a little more than Rs 1 lakh, it directly rivals the likes of Ather 450X, Bajaj Chetak and Ola S1. TVS iQube sales crossed the 4k mark for 2021 last month. It has stayed ahead of rival Chetak by a margin of about 200 units.
      Powering iQube is a 4.4kW hub-mounted BLDC motor that derives its energy from a 2.25kWh battery pack. This powertrain returns 3kW power and 140 Nm of peak torque and a claimed range of 75km for a single charge. The e-scooter gets two modes- Eco and Sport.
      iQube also comes loaded with features such as full-LED lighting along with a full-colour TFT instrument cluster sporting TVS’ SmartXonnect function. It allows connecting the display with a smartphone through Bluetooth for giving access to various information such as ride stats, remote battery range and geo-fencing. More

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      Hero Electric Scooter, EV Sales Double In 2021 Festive Season

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      Hero Electric ScootersHero Electric sales touched the 24k mark in the period from 1st Oct 2021 to 15th Nov 2021
      Hero Electric scooter and EV sales numbers foster a spirited outlook this festive season. Through 2021 festive season (October 01 – November 15, 2020), Hero Electric sales stood at 24,000 units. In comparison, for the same period last year, sales were at 11,339 units.
      Amended FAME II policy and fuel price fluctuations have helped strengthen focus on electric vehicles, and thereby resulted in increase in demand. Overall focus on EVs sees certain segments spearhead growth. This includes government backed public transport developments, and the focus of electric fleets by delivery businesses.
      On the consumer front, electric scooters and motorcycles are being projected as the next big thing. To support this, there’s been more awareness around such development. Updates to FAME II policy mean one can avail of rebates for specified vehicle segments. Over time, investments have been enhanced to strengthen charging infrastructure to help reduce range anxiety.
      Hero Electric Retail Sales Double In 2021 Festive Season
      Hero Electric’s growing customer base has seen the company report retail sales of 24k units during 2021 festive season. The manufacturer’s ‘30 days, 30 bikes’ festive offer fuelled sales momentum this festive season. And was designed for customers purchasing a Hero Electric two-wheeler with a chance to get their vehicle free.
      Hero Electric Scooter Sales
      FY2022 gaols revolved around ‘strong sales target’ and ‘market share’. During the time, sales touchpoints expansion is targeted at a 1,000 units. 300 new sales touchpoints will be made operational, adding to the current network of 700 such units. Expansion targets are in tandem with segment growth projection of 20 percent over the next five years. Production capacity expansion is on the cards.
      Electric Two Wheeler segment growth
      In the longer run, Hero targets to add 1 million customers annually. A strong EV ecosystem is being developed by installing charging infrastructure in major cities. A partnership with EV charging start-up Charzer targets 10k charging stations to start with.
      Through first year ops, chargers will be set up across Hero Electric dealerships. Charzer mobile app and website will aid users find the nearest charging station.The collab targets 1 lakh such stations, and the job is to be completed in 3 years. Simultaneously, the mechanic network is being developed by training those servicing petrol bikes to handle upkeep of electric two-wheelers.
      Sohinder Gill, CEO, Hero Electric, said, “We saw two clear indicators in our showrooms this festive season. A significant percentage of customers chose Hero Electric bikes over the Petrol bikes and many factored environment and sustainability as influencing factors in their purchase. This is a good indicator for Hero and the E2W industry to step into an exponential growth and bring around an EV revolution that will help reduce air pollution and make our cities a better place.” More

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      2022 Honda ADV 350 Scooter Debuts At EICMA – New Features

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      2022 Honda ADV 3502022 Honda ADV 350 will be launched in Europe first – It is not expected to be launched in India
      2022 Honda ADV has made its global debut. This adventure scooter will be on public display at the EICMA 2021, being held from November 25-28. This is the company’s third offering in the adventure scooter segment – that also includes models like the X-ADV and the ADV150.
      Honda ADV 350 comes with styling borrowed from the X-ADV. It will be presented in three colour options of Spangle Silver Metallic, Matte Carbonium Gray Metallic and Matte Carnelian Red Metallic. It sits on a tubular steel frame. Speaking about dimensions, it is 2200mm in length, 895mm in width and 1295mm in height. It has a 1520 mm wheelbase. Though based on the Honda Forza 350, the ADV 350 is bigger and heavier than the former at 186 kgs.
      2022 Honda ADV 350 – Features and Styling
      Honda ADV 350 sports dual LED headlamps. It gets a two stage adjustable windscreen which can be adjusted via a slide-lock mechanism through 2 stages and 133mm travel. A USB Type C socket is positioned in the left glove box while seat height is at 795m. Under seat storage is at a premium with 48 liter capacity making it large enough to accommodate two full face helmets.
      On board features include an LCD instrument cluster with Honda Smartphone Voice Control system, Honda RoadSync All. It also gets connectivity via Bluetooth to the user’s smartphone allowing for voice management of phone calls and music. Smart Key controls the main ignition switch knob and seat locking from the rider’s pocket and automatically locks the scooter when the rider is out of a certain range.
      2022 Honda ADV 350
      Engine Specs
      Honda ADV 350 is powered by a 330cc, SOHC, four valve engine making 21.5 kW (29 PS) peak power at 7,500 rpm and 31.5 Nm torque at 5,250 rpm. Fuel efficiency is rated at 30km/l economy (WMTC mode) with a potential 340km+ range on a full tank.
      Ideally suited both for city and out of city riding, the ADV 350 gets 37mm inverted fork with 125mm travel in the front. Rear suspension is via twin shock absorbers with 130mm travel. Front tyre is 120/70 R15 while rear tyre is 140/70 R14. Braking is via single disc in the front and rear via 2 channel ABS.
      Connectivity
      Keeping its rider fully connected, the ADV350’s LCD dash integrates the Honda Smartphone Voice Control system, which links the rider to their smartphone while on the move and allows voice management of phone calls and music. A helmet-mounted headset and Honda’s RoadSync app are all that is needed to activate the system, and the smartphone connects via Bluetooth; management of Honda Smartphone Voice Control System is from the left switchgear.
      Honda is also offering the ADV 350 with a list of accessories. These include a 50 liter smart top box, rear carrier rack, inner bags and heated grips. The list also includes a U lock and outdoor cover. More

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      MV Agusta 550cc Adventure Motorcycle Concept At EICMA 2021

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      MV Agusta 550cc Adventure Motorcycle ConceptThe Lucky Explorer 5.5 Concept previews the upcoming 550cc adventure tourer from MV Agusta which is based on QJ 500GS
      Whenever the brand MV Agusta pops up in mind, one is bound to think of high-speed sports bikes. Even though the Italian brand has a motorcycle like Turismo Veloce, which is a deviation from its usual track-spec machines, the bikemaker has mastered the art of racing with such finesse that riders tend to associate it only with the latter.
      However, MV Agusta has been making attempts to break its image and step out of its comfort zone in recent times. Hence, at the ongoing 2021 EICMA in Milan, Italy, the company has unveiled its upcoming adventure tourer. Named Lucky Explorer 5.5, this pre-production concept has been designed to take on rough roads as well as munch long miles.
      Lucky Explorer 5.5 – Styling Highlights
      The motorcycle has been jointly developed in association with its Chinese partner Qianjiang Motors. In fact, the concept is based on QJ 500GS since a large number of parts in Lucky Explorer 5.5 have been derived from the Chinese ADV. Even the design of both bikes are largely similar to each other.
      The front end of the bike gets an almost flat nose featuring twin-beam round LED headlights and integrated circular LED DRL rings giving it an angry-looking face. The heavily-faired front body panels get a prominent blacked-out air intake for improved aerodynamics. Other highlights include a front windscreen, a large engine bash plate and split-style seats.
      MV Agusta 550cc Adventure Motorcycle Concept
      The split seating setup should offer ample comfort since the stepped-up pillion seat also acts as lumbar support to the rider. The raised tail section gets split grab rails and a mounting rack for luggage. The side-on canister is attached to an exhaust pipe which appears to be mounted on the rear swingarm. The tall and wide handlebar along with centre-set footpegs should offer comfortable riding ergonomics.
      Underpinnings & Mechanical Specs
      The overall rugged appearance is well-rounded by some snazzy graphics on the white panels. To further accentuate its ADV character, the motorcycle rides on wire-spoke wheels that are shod with chunky dual-purpose tyres. The Lucky Explorer 5.5 appears to be underpinned by the same steel frame used by both QJMotor and Benelli for their respective 500cc offerings.
      That said, MV Agusta has used its own 550cc parallel-twin motor that has a 70.5mm bore and 71mm stroke. This powerplant has been designed from scratch and is said to offer a wide torque curve available all through the rev range. Other mechanical components such as the 41mm front forks and disc brake calipers sourced from Brembo seem to be high spec.
      It should be reminded to our readers that this isn’t the final production-spec bike and its official specs are yet to be revealed. With this middleweight adventure tourer, MV Agusta is targeting Asian markets and a few European markets with a product that could be the brand’s most affordable offering to date. MV Agusta also revealed 950cc adventure concept, which can be seen below. More

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      New Greta Electric Scooters Launch Price Rs 60k Onwards – Range 100 Kms

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      Greta Electric Scooter Harper ZXVast untapped potential of electric two-wheeler segment has been consistently attracting new players from diverse business backgrounds
      In terms of number of parts and complexity, electric two-wheelers are fairly easy to manufacture as compared to their petrol-powered counterparts. It explains why startups and tech companies are aggressively targeting this space.
      Latest entrant in this segment is Greta Electric Scooters that has launched four new electric scooters. Greta is part of Raj Electromotives, which specializes in converting pedal powered bicycles, rickshaws, tricycles, and bikes to electric. The company had received approval for its electric scooters in 2019 from International Centre for Automotive Technology (ICAT).
      Greta electric scooters
      The four scooters launched by Greta are Harper, Harper ZX, Evespa and Glide. Each has different body styling and is offered in unique colour options. For example, Harper and Harper ZX have a sporty profile with prominent front apron, sharp body panels and sleek turn signals.
      One key difference between the two is that Harper has dual headlamp unit whereas Harper ZX has single headlamp. Other features such as handlebar cowl, rear view mirrors, and seat are largely the same on both scooters. Pillion riders can expect extra comfort, as both scooters have backrest.
      Greta Electric Scooter Evespa
      Evespa is a retro-styled electric scooter, quite similar to petrol-powered Vespa scooters. It comes with classic flat front apron, curvy body panels, round headlamp and round rear view mirrors. Turn signals are mounted on the front apron.
      Greta Electric Scooter Harper
      Fourth scooter Glide comes across as a futuristic, no-frills electric scooter. It has a unibody-styled design with a round headlamp mounted on the front apron. Glide also gets round rear-view mirrors. Other key features include flat handlebar, compact flyscreen and pillion backrest.
      All four Greta scooters have a flat floorboard, which will come handy in everyday use. Powering the scooters will be 48-volt / 60-volt lithium-ion battery packs. On a full charge, the scooters will have range of 70km to 100km. Charging time from 0 to 100% is approximately four hours. Customers will have the option to choose from different configurations of battery packs.
      Greta Electric Scooter Glide
      Taken together, the four Greta scooters will be offered in 22 colour options. Features that are common across all four scooters include digital instrument cluster, ATA system, reverse mode, anti-theft alarm and keyless start. In terms of hardware, Harper, Harper ZX and Evespa are equipped with drum disc combo braking. Glide has disc brakes at both ends. All four scooters offer above average storage space.
      Greta e-scooters global expansion
      Greta is already operational in international locations such as Nepal. They have two showrooms currently and have plans to open more. Greta is also carrying out tests in Europe and is hopeful of getting legal approval soon. Post approval, Greta electric scooters will be available in multiple European countries.
      In domestic market, Great electric scooters are priced in the range of Rs 60k to Rs 92k. The company is working to expand its dealer network across the country. More

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      Oppo Electric Scooter, Car Planned For India Launch – Name Trademarked

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      Image for reference.Oppo’s sister brands like OnePlus, Vivo, and Realme are also reportedly planning to launch electric vehicles in India
      Total number of electric two-wheeler brands in the country has already exceeded their petrol-powered counterparts. However, EV sales are still a small fraction of overall auto sales in the country. A lot more traction and momentum is expected in the future, as more brands enter the EV space.
      A new name that’s been added to the list is Oppo, one of the leading smartphone manufacturers. While customers may be a bit wary of dealing with newer brands, they will have more confidence when buying from popular brands like Oppo.
      Oppo EV launch plans
      It may take a couple of years for Oppo to launch EVs in India. The first of Oppo EVs could be unveiled in late 2023 or early 2024. While electric two-wheeler segment in the country is evolving at a fast pace, mainstream manufacturers continue to focus on petrol powered vehicles. This may give adequate time to companies like Oppo to develop EVs that are especially suited for Indian conditions.
      As of now, it is not known what type of EVs Oppo is planning for India. Earlier, reports had indicated that the company has already commenced work on EV manufacturing. Oppo has been holding meetings with battery manufacturing companies and parts suppliers. Some of these firms supply parts to leading companies like Tesla.
      OPPO applied for registering trademark under EV category in India
      EVs will be a completely new experience for Oppo, as this is the first time it is exploring its options beyond mobile devices. The company will have the option of manufacturing the EVs locally or importing them. If the objective is to generate high volumes, local manufacturing will be preferred to keep costs down.
      Along with Oppo, others like Realme, OnePlus and Vivo have also filed trademark applications for EVs. Taken together, these companies could launch various types of EVs including electric cars and electric two-wheelers. Realme has received approval for trademark names ‘realme TechLife‘ and ‘TL Device’.
      The registration, which is valid up to April 2031, allows Realme to manufacture a range of EVs. It includes electric vehicles, self-balancing scooters, self-balancing boards, electric bicycles, electric wheelchairs, and anti-theft devices for automobiles. As of now, only Realme has managed to get its trademark registration approved. The status for others like Oppo, OnePlus and Vivo is either under progress or ‘objected’.
      Competition from Xiaomi
      Chinese manufacturer Xiaomi is also planning to enter the EV space in a big way. It already sells portable electric scooters in international markets. It has plans to mass produce EVs, starting in the first half of 2024. The company has earmarked investments worth $10 million to develop its EV business.
      Xiaomi is a key rival to the likes of Oppo, Vivo, OnePlus and Realme. The latter four are part of China-based BBK Electronics, a global electronics manufacturing company. While the rivalry between these companies in smartphones and electronics is apparent, it will be interesting to see how it pans out in EV space. More