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    Ola S1 Pro Vs Ather 450X – Electric Scooters Compared Side By Side

    Image – Pradeep On WheelsCompetition in EV space will be a lot more intense and brutal owing to rapidly evolving technology
    Ather was among the first companies to launch their electric two-wheeler in India. Its flagship product is 450X, which has a comprehensive range of advanced features. However, 450X is likely to face stiff competition in the future from rival products like Ola S1 Pro. A side-by-side comparison between Ola S1 Pro vs Ather 450X can help understand which scooter offers more value.
    Ola S1 Pro Vs Ather 450X
    Ather 450X has a sporty profile, something that would appeal to young audiences. In comparison, Ola S1 Pro has a much simpler, clutter-free design. There are no unnecessary panels that could potentially increase drag. S1 Pro comes across as a cute scooter and its design is likely to be acceptable to a broader set of users. Moreover, there are 10 colour options for S1 Pro, as compared to 3 for Ather 450X.
    Ola S1 Pro has better numbers in most technical aspects. For example, S1 Pro has 3.97 kWh battery pack, connected to an 8.5 kW motor that generates 58 Nm torque at motor shaft. 450X has 2.9 kWh battery pack, connected to 6 kWh motor that generates 26 Nm of peak torque. Both scooters have fixed, non-removable batteries.
    In terms of range, S1 Pro offers almost double the numbers of 450X. In Normal mode, S1 Pro can travel 155 km, as compared to 85 km in Eco mode by 450X. For customers with range anxiety or folks who want to avoid frequent charging, Ola S1 Pro can be the preferred choice. However, range anxiety should not be a concern, as both manufacturers are building a wide network of fast charging stations. Take a look at the detailed comparison video below, credit to Pradeep on Wheels.
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    Another plus for S1 Pro is its speed and acceleration. It can reach 0-40 kmph in 3 seconds whereas 450X takes 3.3 seconds. Top speed is 115 kmph for S1 Pro and 80 kmph for 450X. When on the road, S1 Pro users can load 75 km in 18 minutes using a fast charger. 450X numbers are much less at 15 km in 10 minutes. Overall charging time at home is also faster for S1 Pro.
    For everyday needs, S1 Pro offers bigger boot space as compared 450X. But there’s no lighting inside S1 Pro boot, as compared to 450X that has a small light to illuminate the underseat storage. Some users have pointed out to the protruding floorboard of S1 Pro, which can create problems for carrying items like cartons, suitcase, etc. In comparison, Ather 450X has a more useful flat floorboard.
    In terms of tech features, both scooters seem to be equally capable. However, S1 Pro has some additional features such as keyless access, voice, assistant, hill hold control and cruise control.
    Image – Pradeep On Wheels
    Price
    On-road price of Ather 450X in Bengaluru is Rs 1.51 lakh. In comparison, Ola S1 Pro works out cheaper at Rs 1.41 lakh. While Ola S1 Pro appears to be better equipped and also cheaper than Ather 450X, other factors can also influence consumer purchase decisions. For example, users may enquire about after sales services, maintenance cost, running cost, life of battery, etc. Build quality is another thing that users may want to assess in more detail.
    It is to note that while Ather has conventional dealer and service network, Ola Electric has chosen to work directly with its customers. Ola electric scooters will be delivered directly to the customer and serviced at their preferred location. The effectiveness of this new setup remains to be tested. More

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    Hero Could Launch New Electric Scooters, Motorcycles Under VIDA Brand

    Image for reference. Hero Splendor converted into Electric motorcycleNew Hero MotoCorp electric scooter is getting ready for launch next year – It has been designed and developed at the company’s R&D centre in Jaipur, Rajasthan
    The entire global automotive industry is shifting towards electric mobility and the transition has started to take rapid steps. In India too, multiple new offerings in the electric vehicle space have been launched already, especially in the two-wheeler segment.
    However, the largest player in the two-wheeler segment hasn’t yet forayed into electric mobility. That said, Hero MotoCorp will soon be launching its first electric vehicle and some fresh details regarding the upcoming battery-powered two-wheeler have surfaced online. As we already know, this two-wheeler is expected to be launched by March 2022.
    Hero MotoCorp VIDA Electric
    Hero MotoCorp cannot use the ‘Hero’ brand for its upcoming battery-powered vehicles since Hero Electric, a separate EV manufacturing entity, holds exclusive rights for this brand in the EV segment. They are expected to launch an all new sub-brand, under which they will sell their range of upcoming electric scooters and motorcycles.
    Recently, Hero MotoCorp has registered multiple names with the name VIDA. The names that have been registered by Hero MotoCorp include – VIDA Electric, VIDA EV, VIDA Mobility, VIDA MotoCorp, VIDA Scooters and VIDA Motorcycles.
    Hero MotoCorp VIDA Electric
    It is likely that Hero will start its EV journey with an e-scooter which could be launched the first product under their ‘Vida Electric’ brand. The bikemaker has filed a trademark for this brand which is likely to serve as a sub-brand catering to only battery-powered vehicles.
    To be built in Chittoor
    The upcoming e-scooter will be manufactured at the company’s latest manufacturing facility located in Chittoor, Andhra Pradesh. Images of the upcoming e-scooter were leaked on the internet after Hero MotoCorp live-streamed its 10th anniversary celebration in August this year.
    Aptly called Garden Factory for its eco-friendly and sustainable manufacturing practices, this plant will provide an integrated ecosystem for Battery Pack Manufacturing and Testing, Vehicle Assembly, and Vehicle End of Line Testing (EOL). It is also the youngest facility of Hero which started operations in March 2020.
    Gogoro Electric Scooter. Hero MotoCorp has partnered with Gogoro.
    Gogoro & Battery Swapping Tech
    From the images leaked earlier, the e-scooter didn’t seem to share any noticeable element with Gogoro electric scooters. For the uninitiated, Gogoro is a Taiwan-based EV manufacturer with whom Hero MotoCorp has announced a partnership earlier this year. Through this joint venture, the Indian bikemaker could make use of battery swapping technology of Gogoro in its upcoming electric two-wheelers.
    The upcoming Hero Vida electric scooter will sport a more conventional design unlike the ones offered by Gogoro. Some striking highlights of the Hero e-scooter are a single-sided rear suspension and a seemingly mid-mounted motor, Unlike Gogoro electric scooters, the e-scooter from Hero MotoCorp misses out on double-sided swingarms.
    The Hero e-scooter gets black embellishments on the handlebar, side and rear fenders and floorboard which give it a dual-tone colour theme that looks very sporty. Other notable styling highlights include a long split seat, a short flyscreen and curvy bodywork. The pillion seat is detachable which is intended for use in last-mile services. More

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    Honda Grazia 125cc Scooter MotoGP Colour Edition Launch Price Rs 87k

    New Honda Grazia 125cc In MotoGP ColoursHonda Grazia 125 Repsol Honda Team Edition gets vibrant orange coloured accents to add a sportier stance
    Honda Motorcycle and Scooter India Pvt. Ltd. (HMSI) has just launched the Grazia 125 in their official Repsol Honda Team colours in India. It is seen with vibrant orange coloured accents, the signature colour of Honda MotoGP team, across its wheel rims for a sportier appeal which will instantly appeal to racing fans in the country. Grazia 125 Repsol Honda Team Edition is priced at Rs 87,138 (ex-showroom, Gurugram).
    Mr. Atsushi Ogata, Managing Director, President & CEO, Honda Motorcycle & Scooter India Pvt. Ltd said, “Repsol Honda racing team infuses the spirit of competing in the extreme challenge on the racetrack. With rich legacy paving the way for Honda’s bright future in racing, we are delighted to unveil the Grazia125 Repsol Honda Team Edition for racing enthusiasts in India.”
    Mr. Yadvinder Singh Guleria, Director, Sales & Marketing, Honda Motorcycle & Scooter India Pvt. Ltd. said, “The unveiling of Grazia125 Repsol Honda Team Edition brings the spirit of racing, catching the fascination of MotoGP fans yet again. Its sportier looks and trademark orange, red & white scheme of smart graphics teamed up with a sporty engine makes it an irresistible package for racing enthusiasts.”
    Honda Grazia 125 – More details
    Honda Grazia 125, which received an overhaul in 2020 with BS6 update, is offered in the highly competitive 125cc segment. It is priced from Rs 76,823 -84,148 (ex-showroom Delhi) and is a sportier alternative to the Activa 125. All prices are ex-sh.
    New Honda Grazia 125cc In MotoGP Colours
    It comes in with a bold design and advanced technology among which are Programmed Fuel Injection (PGM-FI) engine and Idling Stop System and Enhanced Smart Power (eSP). It also gets rider comforts among which are features such as LED DC headlamp, multi-function switch and an integrated passing switch.
    Features are also extended to side stand indicator with engine-cut off, intelligent instrument display, 3-step adjustable rear suspension and front telescopic suspension. Honda Grazia competes with the TVS NTorq 125, Hero Maestro Edge, Aprilia SR 125 and the Yamaha Fascino 125 FI Hybrid.
    Honda Plans Electric Two-wheeler for India
    Like its other counterparts Bajaj, TVS and Hero MotorCorp, HMSI also plans to enter the electric two wheeler segment. It will bring out its first electric two-wheeler in the next financial year. A Honda Benly e electric scooter has been spied testing at the ARAI (Automotive Research Association of India) facility in Pune earlier this year.
    The Benly e was showcased in 2019 at Tokyo Motor Show and has been positioned as an electric two-wheeler for commercial use. Honda sells four different models of the Benly e in Japan and in other global markets that include the Benly e I, Benly e I Pro, Benly e II and Benly e II Pro.
    The Benly will come in with LED headlamps, a digital instrument cluster and accessory power socket. It will get a flat rear deck and large basket in the front. The e-scooter will sport reverse assist function and ride on 12 inch tyre in the front and 10 inch tyre at the rear. As on date, Benly e I and I Pro are powered by a 2.8 kW electric motor offering 13 Nm peak torque. Benly e II and II Pro come in with a 4.2 kW electric motor generating 15 Nm peak torque. More

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    Ola Electric Scooter New Variant Likely To Be Priced In Activa, Jupiter Range

    Ola electric scooterThe new affordable iteration of Ola S1 e-scooter will be followed by a new electric motorcycle
    Ola is planning to launch an assault in the electric mobility space by expanding its lineup with multiple battery-powered two-wheelers in the near future. The company is even intending to foray into the passenger vehicle segment and has reportedly hired key personnel for development of an electric car.
    The next big launch from the Bengaluru-based EV manufacturer is another electric scooter that will be more affordable than the current S1 range. According to a new report, Ola is developing a new e-scooter that will be positioned below S1 and would be the entry-level model in the company’s two-wheeler lineup. It is likely to be called Ola Series S. Ola has already registered the name.
    Less in power, range
    This new e-scooter is most likely to be based on the same S1 series and could miss out on certain features to make it more cost-friendly. The most effective way to cut costs is to replace the current 3kWh battery in S1 with a lower-rated battery. This battery could send energy to an electric motor with a smaller capacity. This would also result in more conservative performance as well as a lower single-charge range.
    Even with more modest battery and motor specifications, the new e-scooter is expected to offer a range of around 100km on a single charge along with a top speed of around 75-80 kmph. However, it is too early to speculate exact numbers from the powertrain.
    Ola Series S could be the name of this new upcoming electric scooter
    Ola Series S Electric Scooter – Modest equipment
    Ola is also expected to cut down on some features such as a touchscreen display, cruise control, speakers and keyless ignition. Other premium goodies such as remote boot lock/unlock, proximity lock/unlock, voice assistant, Wifi connectivity and geo-fencing are likely to be given a miss. The new scooter might ride on simple steel wheels instead of 12-inch alloys in the current models.
    The prie of this new Ola Scooter variant will also be less. Current base variant of Ola electric scoter S1 is under Rs 1 lakh, which goes down further with FAME-II and state subsidies. The upcoming cheaper version of Ola electric scooter is expected to be priced in the Rs 70k to Rs 80k range, making it a direct rival to India’s best selling scooters Honda Activa, TVS Jupiter – in terms of price range.
    Ola S1, S1 Pro Specs
    Currently Ola Electric is offering two scooters- S1 and S1 Pro which share most of the underpinnings including the same permanent magnet motor between each other. The former is powered by a 2.98kWh battery pack while the latter features a larger 3.97kWh battery. Peak output in both models is rated at 8.5 kW (11.4 bhp) and 58 Nm. While S1 returns a range of 121km, the more premium S1 Pro returns 181km on a full charge.
    Top speed on S1 is restricted at 90 kmph whereas S1 Pro can reach a top speed of 115 kmph. It takes 4 hours and 48 minutes for the smaller battery pack and 6.5 hours for the larger battery pack to get fully charged using a standard AC charger. On using Ola’s fast charger, it could replenish a 75km range for 18 minutes of charging. While S1 weighs 121kg, S1 Pro tips the scales at 125kg.
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    Royal Enfield Meteor 350 Modified Into A Single Seat Bobber

    Royal Enfield Meteor 350 ModifiedThis modification project was commissioned by Royal Enfield Europe in Netherlands and created by Amsterdam-based Ironwood Custom Motorcycles
    Needless to say, Royal Enfield motorcycles are one of the most custom-friendly two-wheelers not just in India but in overseas markets as well. In India, aftermarket workshops are warier and keep modifications in check since they are illegal to move on public roads.
    However, that isn’t the case in some foreign markets where workshops are at freedom to show their creativity on the machines on wheels. One such instance has surfaced online in which a Royal Enfield Meteor 350 has been modified into a single-seater bobber which looks gothic. It also has a flair of being a cafe racer, as well as a scrambler.
    Royal Enfield Meteor 350 Modified
    Inspiration from Star Wars
    Built by Amsterdam-based Ironwood Custom Motorcycles, the modified cruiser even derives its name- Starship Meteor from the Star Wars movie franchise. The bike gets a dark theme with each and every component, including mechanical and running gears, has been painted black. The factory-rolled donor model was wrapped in Fireball Yellow which already gets the mechanical parts like engine, gearbox and exhaust blacked out.
    Now, the bike wraps itself in ‘Meteor Rain’ paint which is further accentuated by the special Royal Enfield insignia with a cosmic livery on the fuel tank and side covers. Coming to its styling, the motorcycle has undergone several modifications to achieve this image. For starters, the alloy wheels are now shod semi-knobby rubbers while the front telescopic forks now get gaiters.
    Royal Enfield Meteor 350 Modified
    Meteor 350 Modified bobber – Mechanical Updates
    Ergonomics of the bike has also been tweaked with a new black Supercross handlebar replacing the standard unit. Both front and rear mudguards have been chopped short. The rear suspension unit now gets twin “Piggy-Back” shock absorbers from YSS. While the main chassis of Meteor hasn’t been tinkered, it gets a modified rear subframe.
    Royal Enfield Meteor 350 Modified
    The single-seat now gets a CNC-milled mount while the floating bobber-style saddle is quilted in a diamond pattern. Another major change is the new aftermarket exhaust which is shorter than the stock unit. The Akrapovic racing canister provides a throaty exhaust note which adds to the overall appeal of the bike.
    The neo-retro theme of the donor bike is carried forward with a new aftermarket headlight which is circular and a pair of bar-end rearview mirrors. The aftermarket taillamps also double as turn indicators and are now positioned below the saddle. The license plate mount has been installed on the left swingarm. Overall, the custom-built motorcycle definitely looks like a head turner now.

    No Update in Powertrain
    No updates have been made to the powertrain of the donor motorcycle. It is powered by the same 349cc, single-cylinder, air-cooled engine that propels the stock Meteor. This unit pushes out 20.2 bhp and 27 Nm of peak torque. The engine is paired with a 5-speed gearbox via a slipper and assist clutch. More

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    Boom Corbett Electric Scooter Launch Price Rs 87k – 100 Kms Range

    Boom Corbett Electric ScooterThe base variant of Boom Corbett 14 offers a range of 100km whereas the EX trim offers a range of 200km on a single charge
    Coimbatore-based Boom Motors has launched its first electric scooter in the form of Corbett 14. In India. The e-scooter has been offered in two variants- Corbett 14 and Corbett 14-EX. The former has been priced at Rs 86,999 whereas the latter has been priced at Rs 1,19,999 (both prices ex-showroom).
    These are introductory prices and Boom will hike the prices by Rs 3,000 on the base variant and by Rs 5,000 on the EX trim at a later stage. Bookings for the electric scooter have already commenced online at a token amount of Rs 499. Deliveries of the e-scooter will start from January 2022.
    Boom Corbett Electric Scooter – Moped-inspired Design
    Corbett 14 competes against Rugged G1 and G1 Plus and looks quite similar to the latter as well. Like G1 and G1 Plus, Corbett deviates from the conventional design of a scooter and flaunts a design resembling old-school mopeds. It features a minimalist design with barely any side body panels. The styling looks neat with highlights such as a circular LED headlamp cluster and simple ergonomics.
    The e-scooter gets a flat seat, a straight line handlebar and slightly forward-set footpegs. Staying true to its moped-inspired design, it doesn’t have a very large floorboard. Corbett 14 features a unique exoskeletal frame that forms the projection bar for the scooter and extends at the rear to form a grab rail.
    Boom Corbett Electric Scooter
    Powertrain Specs
    Powering the Boom electric scooter are two BLDC hub motor options that have been indigenously developed. The base trim gets a 3kW motor while the EX trim is propelled by a larger 4kW. Evidently, the latter offers better performance than the former with top speeds of 75kmph and 65kmph on the EX and standard derivative respectively.
    Sending energy to the motor is a 2.3kWh swappable battery pack on the base variant. The EX trim gets two of these battery packs which means a total capacity of 4.6kWh. This results in a greater range of 200km on a single charge in comparison to the 100km range on the base version. Charging time for both variants is between 2.5 and 4 hours which depends on whether one uses a fast charger or a regular one.
    Features on offer
    Boom is also offering portable chargers for increased convenience. The IoT-enabled smart battery comes with a 5-year warranty cover whereas the double-cradle steel chassis underpinning Corbett 1r4 is covered under a 7-year warranty. The chassis is suspended on anti-dive 4-point adjustable springs at front and 4-point adjustable dual springs at rear.
    Boom Corbett Electric Scooter
    Braking duties are handled by single disc brakes at both ends. In terms of features, Corbett 14 offers all-LED illumination, 30 litres of under-seat storage and a tracking app that provides a ton of information including petrol savings tracking, CO2 offset tracking, a parental mode for extra safety and accident/theft detection. More

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    New Honda CB150X 150cc Adventure Motorcycle Makes Global Debut

    New Honda CB150X. Image – AutonetmagzWhile styling is similar to CB200X, the new Honda CB150X gets a more sophisticated powertrain and a higher 181mm ground clearance
    A number of interesting models have been presented at the ongoing 2021 Gaikindo Indonesia International Auto Show (GIIAS). One of them is the Honda CB150X which has now been officially launched in Indonesia. It has become the first 150cc adventure tourer from Honda.
    CB150X beats the India-made Honda CB200X to become the smallest motorcycle in the CBX lineup of the Japanese brand. Just like CB200X, the new CB150X is based on its naked streetfighter counterpart, in this case, it is CB150R Streetfire. The CB150X is more of a tourer bike in a clothed avatar with a semi-faired body upfront.
    New Honda CB150X – Design
    Like CB200X, the CB150X is an ADV bike on paper with no mechanical credentials to support any off-roading abilities. It flaunts the same design language of the X line of ADVs from the Japanese bikemaker. Therefore, it gets a signature ADV-style front beak along with a sculpted fuel tank with long shrouds and a short windscreen. Honda has even provided CB150X with a bash plate to protect the engine bay.
    Unlike CB200X, the tank shrouds in CB150X are functional which protect the bike’s radiator from any debris. The motorcycle offers an upright seating posture with a turned in straight line handlebar and centre-set footpegs which should result in comfortable riding ergonomics, thus embracing its touring DNA. Other styling highlights include a tall windscreen, a single-piece saddle, a raked-up tail section, an upswept side-on exhaust and a beefy fuel tank.
    New Honda CB150X
    Mechanical Specifications
    Honda hasn’t yet revealed the exact specs of CB150X but it is expected to borrow the 149cc liquid-cooled single-cylinder engine from CB150R. This motor is capable of delivering an output of 16.5 bhp at 9000rpm and 13.8Nm of peak torque at 7000rpm. The engine paired with a 6-speed gearbox should return identical engine output as the CBR150R mentioned above.
    However, tuning of this power plant might be tweaked slightly in order to suit its touring abilities. CB200X sits on a familiar diamond-type frame suspended onto 37mm Showa USD forks at front with 150mm of travel, and a mono-shock at rear. Braking hardware comprises single disc brakes at both ends complemented by ABS.
    Further, CB150X gets a ground clearance of 181mm, which is 14mm more than the CB200X. That said, the saddle of the former is more accessible at 805m in comparison to the seat height of 817mm in CB200X. The same 17-inch multi-spoke alloys seen in CB150R have been employed on the baby adventure tourer. Take a detailed look at the first look, credit to Autonetmagz.
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    Price
    In Indonesia, CB150X has been priced at RP 32 million (approx. INR 1.67 lakh) and goes up to Rs 35 million (approx. INR 1.83 lakh). This makes it Rs 21,000 dearer than the India-spec CB200X. Therefore, Honda is unlikely to bring this motorcycle to India shores anytime soon. More

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    Ola Electric Scooter Test Ride Starts For Owners In Bangalore

    Ola Electric Scooter Test Ride Starts
    Feedback received made it clear that buyers wanted to have test rides of the Ola S1 and S1 Pro e-scooters prior to paying balance amount
    Even as Ola Electric decided to take final payments for its S1 and S1 Pro scooters from customers who had made bookings, the company has now changed its strategy. The company has now announced that it will only take final payments for the S1 and S1 Pro electric scooters after they have taken a test ride.
    Ola Electric Scooter Test Ride Starts
    First batch of test ride has commenced in Bangalore, revealed Ola CEO. Soon Ola electric scooter test rides will be held in other cities of India. Test rides are open only to Ola electric scooter scooter customers who have paid the first part of payment of Rs 20k.
    Test rides are being performed in batches. Ola electric scooter will invite eligible customers to a pre-decided location during a set time slot. It is only in that time slot on that day, at that location you will be able to get a chance to test ride the Ola electric scooter.
    Only the person who has booked the scooter will be able to test ride. In case you cannot make it, you cannot send a replacement on your behalf. In case any customer wishes to cancel their booking of the S1 and S1 Pro e-scooter, the company has assured a full refund.
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    Bookings and Price
    Ola Electric had launched the S1 and S1 Pro e-scooters on 15th August. Priced at Rs 1 lakh and Rs 1.30 lakh respectively, the company claims to have seen bookings to the extent of Rs 1,100 crore in two days. The next phase of booking was set to start from 1st November 2021. But that has now been postponed to 16th Dec 2021.
    Noting this outstanding demand, the company states that production which will initially start at 10 lakh units per annum will be enhanced to 20 lakh units annually. The Ola Electric plant is set to have an annual capacity of 1 crore units once completed.
    Ola S1 and S1 Pro Range
    Prices of the two electric scooters varies as per Government subsidies offered in states of Delhi, Maharashtra, Gujarat and Rajasthan. Price of Ola S1 and S1 Pro is at Rs 79,999 and Rs 1,09,999 in Gujarat. The Ola S1 and S1 Pro draw their power via a 5.5 kW electric motor offering peak output of 8.5 kW and 58 Nm peak torque and two battery pack options of 2.98 kWh and 3.97 kWh respectively.
    On the S1, it offers a claimed range of 120 kms on a single charge and a top speed of 90 km/h. The S1 Pro gets a 180 km range on single charge and a top speed of 115 km/h. Suspension and braking setups are same on both variants. More