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    Mahindra Owned Peugeot Motorcycles Lose Patent Infringement Case In France, Italy

    Piaggio MP3 and Mahindra Peugeot MetropolisIn addition to receiving a ban on sales of Metropolis in French and Italian territories, Peugeot Motorcycles has also incurred heavy fines in both the markets
    In what is a significant setback for Mahindra-owned Peugeot Motorcycles, the courts in Paris and Milan have ruled against the sale of popular Peugeot Metropolis three-wheeled maxi-scooter in France and Italy due to a patent infringement. On top of that, both courts levied hefty fines.
    Piaggio Group’s patent suit against Peugeot Scooters
    The legal battle between Italy’s Piaggio Group and Peugeot Motorcycles centers around the control system which enables a three-wheeler to tilt like a regular two-wheeler. The patent for the aforementioned technology is owned by Piaggio Group which implements the system on its Piaggio MP3 scooter.
    Both the Tribunal Judiciaire of Paris and Tribunale of Milan have found the control system employed by Peugeot Metropolis to be infringing Piaggio Group’s patent. As a result, the French court has banned Peugeot Motorcycles from producing, promoting, marketing, importing, exporting, using and/or possessing any three-wheeled scooter employing Piaggio’s patented technology in France. The court also imposed a fine of 1.5 million euros (Rs 12.95 crores) in addition to other penalties.
    The Milanese court also ruled on the similar lines, banning the Indian-owned French two wheeler maker from importing, exporting, marketing and advertising the Peugeot Metropolis scooter in the Italian territory. Moreover, the court has prescribed a fine of 6,000 euros (around INR 5.18 lakh) for every Metropolis sold 30 days after the announcement of this sentence. Failing to withdraw the contentious vehicles from sale within 90 days will lead to a further penalty of 10,000 euros (around INR 8.64 lakh) for every day of non-compliance.
    Image – AutoDevot
    What next?
    Given that the three-wheeled maxi-scooters are quite popular in both France and Italy, the ban on Metropolis comes as a huge blow to Peugeot Motorcycles which is entitled to appeal both the rulings. However, the company has not made its legal strategy public yet. Should the brand chooses not to pursue the legal battle further, or loses its appeal, we believe that a re-engineering process will be on the cards.
    Peugeot Metropolis
    As of now, the Peugeot Metropolis scooter continues to be listed on the company’s official Italian website. Priced a shade below 10,000 euros (around INR 8.64 lakh), the premium three-wheeler employs a 400 cc liquid-cooled engine with an automatic transmission. The power and torque figures stand at 35.6 hp and 38.1 Nm respectively.
    In comparison, the Piaggio MP3 is available in different flavours with three engine options – 300cc, 400cc and 500cc with prices ranging from 6,890 euros (around INR 5.95 lakh) to 11,590 euros (around INR 10.01 lakh).
    We expect Piaggio Group to initiate legal actions in all the markets where the Peugeot Metropolis is being sold. It is to be noted that while Peugeot Motorcycles evaluated a possible Indian entry a few years ago, nothing materialized. More

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    2021 Yamaha R15 V4 And R15M – Accessories, Service And Warranty Details

    Image – Wheels Alert2021 Yamaha R15 V4 is offered in three colours of Racing Blue, Dark Knight, and Metallic Red, while Yamaha R15M gets Metallic Grey
    As bookings commence for the newly launched 2021 Yamaha R15 V4 and Yamaha R15M start, the company has also released a list of accessories that buyers can opt for along with a service schedule and warranty pack. Deliveries have already started across India.
    2021 Yamaha R15 V4 and R15M are priced at Rs 1,67,800 and Rs 1,77,800 respectively. There is also a limited edition Monster MotoGP in Black, priced at Rs 1,80,000. Despite the fact that both the bikes come in with a range of outstanding features, buyers still prefer to add a touch of individuality to their bikes and this is where the accessory list comes into play.
    Yamaha Official Accessories
    Starting off with the Frame Slider at Rs 1,650 for a set of two, the list also includes a pair of LED Flashers at Rs 1,490, a Mobile Charger at Rs 750 and Skid Plate priced at Rs 550. The accessory list also includes a Seat Cover at Rs 450 and Tank Pad at Rs 190.
    The Frame Sliders offer better protection to the fairing of the motorcycle in the event of collision while the company is also offering adjustable clutch and brake levers with an anti-slip surface. Each of these accessories are on sale via Yamaha authorized dealerships.
    Yamaha R15 V4 Accessories
    Free Service and Extended Warranty
    Standard warranty being offered on 2021 Yamaha R15 V4 and R15M is for 24 months or 30,000 kms (whichever is earlier) from the date of sale. The services pack is for 6 free services and starts off from 30 days of purchase or 1000 kms with a service redemption rate of Rs 105.
    Yamaha R15 V4 Service Schedule And Cost
    The 2nd free service is after 150 days or 5,000 kms at Rs 115 while buyers can avail of their 3rd and 4th free service after 270 days of purchase of 9000 kms at service redemption rate of Rs 125 and after 290 days/13,000 kms at Rs 140.
    The 5th and 6th services are after 510 days/17000 kms and 630 days/21000 kms with no service redemption charges. Post free services, Yamaha offers an extended warranty of 36 months/40,000 kms ranging from 90 days of date of sale for Rs 777, 91-180 days at Rs 999 and from 181-730 days at Rs 1,111.
    Yamaha R15 V4 Accessories
    2021 Yamaha R15 V4 and R15M come in powered by a 155cc, 4 stroke, liquid cooled, SOHC, 4 valve engine that offers 18.4 hp peak power at 10,000 rpm and 14.2 Nm torque at 7,500 rpm mated to a 6 speed gearbox. It receives slipper and assist clutch as standard along with dual channel ABS. Yamaha R15 V4 and R15M will take on the KTM RC200 and the upcoming KTM RC 125 in the entry level sports bike segment. More

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    Bajaj Sales, Exports Breakup Aug 2021 – Pulsar, Platina, CT, Dominar, Avenger

    New Bajaj PulsarBajaj Auto Limited has reported 9.81 percent de-growth in terms of domestic sales while exports increased 27.44 percent YoY
    Bajaj Auto Limited sold a total of 3,32,486 units in August 2021 which included 1,53,437 units in domestic markets while 1,76,049 units were exported. Domestic sales of Bajaj Auto posted a de-growth of 9.81 percent to 1,53,437 units in the past month, down from 1,70,132 units sold in August 2020.
    Bajaj Pulsar Range In Aug 2021
    The Pulsar range, which is generally the most sought after, has seen a dip in demand to the extent of 24.19 percent to 66,107 units, down from 87,202 units sold in August 2020. It was however, the Pulsar 125 that contributed most to these sales at 32,659 units with the Pulsar 150 making up the remain numbers of 24,621 units along with the Pulsar 200 with 4,666 units sold in the past month besides 4,161 units of the Pulsar 250.
    Bajaj Platina sales increased 40.50 percent to 56,615 units in August 2021, up from 40,294 units sold in August 2020 commanding a 39.90 percent share in the company lineup. Bajaj CT, Avenger and Dominar each recorded sales de-growth in August 2021. CT sales dipped 23.76 percent to 26,578 units, up from 34,863 units sold in August 2020.
    Avenger sales fell 49.88 percent to 2,751 units from 5,489 units sold in August 2020 with the Avenger 200cc (2,110 units) more in demand as compared to the Avenger 250cc (641 units). Dominar sales also dipped 51.15 percent to 1,022 units YoY but it was the Bajaj Chetak that saw its domestic sales surge 89.58 percent to 364 units in the past month, up from 192 units sold in August 2020.
    Bajaj Domestic Sales Breakup Aug 2021
    Bajaj Chetak e-scooter is now available in more cities and the company has opened bookings for the Chetak via the brands official website in Pune, Bengaluru, Nagpur, Mysore, Mangalore and Aurangabad.
    Bajaj Exports Increase Aug 2021
    Even as the company did not fair too well in domestic markets, its performance in terms of exports are noteworthy. Exports increased 27.44 percent YoY to 1,76,049 units, up from 1,38,141 units shipped in August 2020. Every model in the company lineup saw an increase in demand except for the Avenger.
    It was the Bajaj Boxer that topped the export list with 1,05,594 units sold in August 2021, up 29.45 percent over 81,574 units shipped in August 2020. Currently the Boxer holds a 59.98 percent share. Bajaj Boxer 110cc was more in demand over the 125cc and 150cc counterparts.
    Bajaj Exports Breakup Aug 2021
    Bajaj Pulsar exports also increased 19.61 percent YoY to 34,243 units, up from 28,628 units sold in August 2020 with the Pulsar 200cc more in demand (15,754 units) over the entry level Pulsar 125cc (4,352 units) and Pulsar 150cc (11,641 units) or the Pulsar 250 ( 2,496 units).
    Even as Bajaj CT exports increased 125.38 percent to 17,958 units over 7,968 units shipped in August 2020 that of Bajaj Discover dipped 26.71 percent to 11,480 units down from 15,664 units exported in August 2020. It was the Discover 125cc that saw more exports at 10,040 units over 1,440 units of the Discover 110cc in the past month.
    Bajaj Platina and Dominar both received increased attention in global markets up 54.84 percent and 108.02 percent respectively while exports of Avenger dipped 50 percent to 343 units, down from 684 units shipped in August 2020. More

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    New KTM RC 125, 200, 390 Front Look Modified Via Render

    2021 KTM RC 200 RenderKTM has introduced significant changes to its RC range across styling, features and ride dynamics
    Auto companies invest a lot of time and effort to ensure their products meet customer expectations. However, as tastes and preferences vary, it’s usually not possible to get positive reaction from each and every user.
    Whenever a new product is introduced, there are bound to be some negative feedback. This has been the case with KTM’s new RC range. Some users have been critical of the front fascia and fairing design of new RC range. In view of this feedback, digital artist Pratyush Rout has come up with an alternative version of new RC range.
    2021 KTM RC Front Modify – Render
    Primary focus of this render is to give a different front look. This is not a complete makeover project. Much of the bike has been retained in its original format. Most changes have been incorporated at the front and sides.
    At the front, stock headlamp has been replaced with a sharper two LED units on each side. These are flanked by LED DRLs have a similar boomerang shape, but there are changes to its angle and placement. Windscreen is now flatter and wider and wears a blacked-out look.
    2021 KTM RC 125 Render
    Another key change is the sleek rear view mirrors that have been equipped with an auxiliary set of LED lights. All these changes have helped achieve a dominating street presence for the bike. These changes have been introduced in a precise manner, so as not to disturb the aerodynamic properties of the bike.
    At the sides, fairing has been expanded to merge seamlessly with the fuel tank. It fills the gaps that can be seen on original RC motorcycles. Changes to the fairing ensure a more cohesive look and feel for the bike’s components. The fairing also gets new graphics. Apart from these, rest of the bike is the same as the original version.
    KTM new RC range details
    While new RC 125 and RC 200 have much in common, they have some unique features. For example, RC 125 uses LED headlamp whereas RC 200 has halogen light. Another key difference is upswept side exhaust for RC 125 and underbelly exhaust for RC 200. There are variations in colour options as well. Both bikes get an updated trellis frame with bolt-on sub-frame.
    2021 KTM RC 390 Render
    Talking about suspension, RC 125 gets WP Apex open cartridge fork whereas RC 200 has WP Apex big piston fork. At the rear, both bikes get a new WP Apex shock absorber. Engine is the same as earlier for both bikes. However, KTM has carried out some tweaks to ensure higher torque delivery and faster acceleration.
    Changes on RC 390 are not very different from that of RC 125 and RC 200. The bike gets a new single-piece LED headlight flanked by LED DRLs. Other components such as handlebar, front fairing, and turn indicators have been updated. A new TFT instrument console with Bluetooth connectivity has been added. Engine is the same as earlier, but torque output has been increased to 37 Nm. This pushes the top speed of the bike by a good 11 kmph. More

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    Top 10 Motorcycles 500cc+ Aug 2021 – RE 650 Twins, Hayabusa, Trident, Pan America

    Image – Neev Motorcycles
    The premium segment of motorcycles include mostly foreign brands such as Triumph, Kawasaki, Harley Davidson barring Royal Enfield
    Popularity of big bikes with an engine displacement greater than 500cc has grown over the last few years with entries of many premium brands in the Indian market. Last month 1,247 motorcycles from this space were sold in the country, therefore, witnessing a YoY growth of 17.64 percent.
    Top 10 Motorcycles 500cc+ Aug 2021 – RE 650 Twins Lead Segment
    During the same period last year, 1,060 bikes from this category were sold. The segment was led by the 650cc Twins from Royal Enfield- Interceptor and Continental GT. Cumulatively, both these motorcycles witnessed a sales volume of 834 units last month which is 30 units short of August last year. It resulted in a YoY decline of 17.64 percent.
    Kawasaki dispatched 55 units of its flagship naked Z900 last month whereas Triumph sold 43 units of its entry entry-level naked motorcycle- Trident 660. Suzuki delivered 42 units of its flagship supersport Hayabusa last month and Honda sold 37 units of its middleweight naked CBR650. British brand Triumph dispatched 27 units of the recently launched new-gen Speed Twin. All these motorcycles have been fairly new entrants to the Indian market.
    Harley Davidson Continues Trotting
    Team Green sold 24 units of Ninja 650 in August this year as opposed to 33 units sold in August last year which translated to 27.27 percent YoY negative growth. The latest entrant to this list is Harley Davidson Pan America.
    Motorcycle sales 500cc+ Segment in Aug 2021
    While the iconic American motorcycle brand has quite independent operations in the country, it continues to retail its motorcycles through dealerships run under Hero MotoCorp. The Indian bikemaker sold 20 units of the flagship adventure tourer last month.
    Another Harley product Low Rider made it to the list at the ninth spot with 19 units sold in August this year instead of seven units during the same month last year. The flagship supersport offering from Kawasaki Ninja ZX-10R witnessed a sales volume of 14 units. Triumph siblings Speed Triple and Street Twin also witnessed the same number of units sold.
    Kawasaki, Triumph Feature Multiple Models
    Ninja 1000 from Kawasaki witnessed a YoY decline of 47.83 percent in August this year as only 12 units of the sports bike were dispatched. The sole cruiser from the Japanese brand registered a sales volume of 11 units. Honda sold 10 units of its flagship adventure tourer last month while Triumph sold an identical number of Street Triple. All other models witnessed a volume of fewer than 10 units last month.
    This includes models such as Versys 650, 1200X Forty-Eight, Versys 1000, Iron 883, Fat Boy and more. Most of the motorcycles in this list are fully imported via the Completely Built-up Unit (CBU) route while others are CKD units. Only the 650 Twins for Royal Enfield are completely locally manufactured in India. More

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    TVS iQube Electric Scooters Reach World’s Highest EV Charging Station

    TVS iQube Electric Scooter at the highest EV charging station in the world
    This new EV charging station is situated at an altitude of 3,720m – It is setup by goEgoNetwork, who claim that this is the highest EV charging station in the world
    goEgoNetwork, a Pune-based company has set up two EV chargers for two and four wheelers in Kaza. Located in the state of Himachal Pradesh, in the district of Lahaul and Spiti. This endeavor was a part of the World Zero Emission Day celebrations and a part of the Government of India’s Make-in-India policy.
    World’s highest electric vehicle (EV) charging station is a bid to promote electric vehicle infrastructure in Himachal Pradesh. Its inauguration was marked by a Mission 0 Emission ride launched from Manali to Kaza with two TVS iQube scooters which was ridden by two woman bikers Ms. Maanvi Rawlley, Marketing Communication Specialist at goEgoNetwork, and Ms. Pratiksha Das, motorcycle influencer from Mumbai. The riders went through the Manali-Kaza route passing over the Kunzum-La Pass.
    TVS iQube Electric Scooter Ride To Kaza
    The EV charging station was installed with Bharat AC and Dual Socket Type 2 charger and has set a record of being the world’s highest EV charging stations (at 3,800m) in Kaza, Spiti valley. The two TVS iQube electric scooters did not encounter any problem while crossing the Kunzum Pass, which is at an altitude of 4,551m.
    The two riders covered the distance of 320 kms from Manali to Kaza by charging their TVS iQube EVs at 3 points. The scooters took on adverse weather conditions and mountainous terrain on the dangerous road from Manali to Kaza via Batal with ease. The ride was taken by these two women riders who also wanted to dispel the myth that EVs are not practical for long-distance travel.
    TVS iQube Electric Scooter In Spiti Valley
    Kaza Sub-Divisional Magistrate (SDM) Mahendra Pratap Singh, who inaugurated the EV charging station, stated that this would motivate people in the area to adopt use of electric vehicles. It would significantly help to reduce auto emissions and protect the mountains which are ecologically fragile.
    Made-in-India EV Charging Station
    The setting up of this charging station came after complaints were received from tourists about there being no EV charging stations in Spiti Valley. It is also a part of Government of India’s vision to becoming a 100 percent EV nation by 2030 and Pune based goEgoNetwork is committed to setting up more such charging stations at popular destinations in the country.
    The Bharat AC and dual socket Type 2 chargers possess a Made-in-India certificate and are in compliance with ARAI and OCA certifications. The main charging station is located at Hotel Dayzor and can be used for charging of all electric two and four wheelers.
    Access via goME App
    goEgoNetwork charging networks can be accessed via the goME App which can be downloaded from App Store and Play Store and helps users get to the nearest charging station via the quickest route. It also gives information on the type of chargers and charging capacity available at the station. More

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    New TVS Raider Vs Bajaj Pulsar Vs Honda SP Vs Hero Glamour – 125cc Comparo

    Image – Deepak Rao VlogsTVS Raider and Hero Glamour Xtec are the most feature-packed models in the 125cc motorcycle segment
    TVS has thrown in a very strong card in the form of Raider as the Hosur-based bikemaker makes its return to the coveted 125cc bike segment after a hiatus of over a decade. At first glance itself, Raider manages to grab everyone’s attention with its impressive styling and sporty design elements.
    The 125cc commuter segment is already a crowded space with multiple strong players and TVS has put everything into making this a compelling product. Here we have compared it some of its strongest rivals such as Honda SP 125, Bajaj Pulsar 125 and Hero Glamour and see how does it stack up against its counterparts.
    For convenience, we have only considered the top-spec disc brake variants of each of the models mentioned above. The current disc brake variant Raider, in this comparison, has been considered as its top-spec trim. The bike will receive a new range-topping model with a range of connectivity features in the next couple of months. That model will be discussed at length later.
    Dimensions
    Starting with dimensions, the newly launched Raider is by far the longest in the segment and hence offers space for the rider and pillion alike. It also has the lowest seat height in this segment with 780mm and the joint highest ground clearance of 180mm, same as Glamour. At a kerb weight of 123kg, Raider feels extremely agile and nimble on road. However, on paper, SP 125 is the lightest at 116 kg.
    New TVS Raider Vs Bajaj Pulsar Vs Hero Glamour Vs Honda SP 125
    Features on offer
    In terms of features, TVS has loaded Raider with many features that are usually offered in a segment above. However, it gets trumped by the top-spec Glamour called X-Tech which comes with a wide range of exclusive features including Bluetooth connectivity, Navigation Assist and AutoSail. Other notable features such as a digital instrument console, side stand engine inhibitor and USB charging option are available in most of these bikes.
    The instrument console of Sp 125, Raider and Glamour Xtec provide a lot more information than the one in Pulsar 125. Barring Pulsar 125, all other models receive a full LED headlamp in their top-spec trim. Apart from SP 125, all other motorcycles receive an LED taillamp. TVS and Honda offer an integrated starter generator in their respective offerings for a silent start. This feature also turns off the engine when the bike is idle and can be started at just a blip of the throttle.
    Specifications
    Coming to specifications, all are powered by 125cc engines but Pulsar 125 is the most powerful in this segment with 12 PS whereas Raider is the torquiest of them all by a whisker at 11.2 Nm. Raider gets the advantage of 3 valves which should offer a smoother and linear power delivery. All these bikes are offered with a 5-speed gearbox paired with a multi-plate wet clutch.
    New TVS Raider Vs Bajaj Pulsar Vs Hero Glamour Vs Honda SP 125
    All motorcycles mentioned above feature telescopic forks upfront. While Pulsar 125 and Glamour receive twin shock absorbers, others receive a mono-shock at rear. Braking hardware consists of disc brake at front and drum brake at rear assisted by a Combi Brake System (CBS) for safety.
    As far as price is concerned, Hero Glamour has the most affordable base variant in this segment at Rs 74,900. Whereas the split-seat disc brake variant of Pulsar 125 is the most expensive in this space at Rs 87,409 (all prices ex-showroom). More

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    Super Soco CT3 Electric Scooter Debuts – 180 Kms Range, First In Class Features

    SuperSoco CT-3 Electric ScooterSuper Soco CT-3 will rival the likes of BMW CE-04 that was unveiled earlier this year in July
    One of the leading manufacturers of electric scooters and motorcycles, China-based Super Soco has unveiled its first electric maxi-scooter named CT-3. This provides Super Soco the opportunity to make its mark in the premium electric two-wheeler space.
    The new electric scooter was unveiled during China International Motorcycle Trade Exhibition, held at Chongqing International Expo Center in China. In addition to its home market, Super Soco CT-3 will be launched in European markets as well.
    Super Soco CT-3 design and features
    Maxi-scooters are known for their beefed-up proportions and Super Soco CT-3 follows on the same design language. It has a broad front fascia with LED headlamp and DRLs placed on the apron. Lighting apparatus has a simple, elegant design that’s neither too loud nor too dull. The scooter has a large visor, which should be able to provide adequate wind protection. It is held to the frame with four protruding hooks, which enhance the scooter’s sporty character.
    Body panels come with sharp curves and grooves, which work to ensure a dominating street presence for the scooter. They also help reduce drag and boost aerodynamic properties. This becomes all the more important for a scooter that runs on battery. It will allow the scooter to cover more miles on a full charge.
    SuperSoco CT-3 Electric Scooter
    Users can expect comfortable rides with Super Soco CT-3, as it has an ergonomic riding stance. The scooter has wide, elevated handlebar, which should work as an appropriate resting angle for the hands. Foot comfort has also been taken into consideration by providing ample space on the floorboard.
    For the pillion rider, the scooter has been equipped with large sized split grab rails. Pillion footrests are foldable units that fit in snugly inside the frame when not in use.
    Super Soco CT-3 gets a comprehensive range of hi-tech features such as NFC smart unlocking, parking assist function, and facial recognition. The scooter has a large 7-inch TFT screen with Bluetooth connectivity. Users can pair their smartphones with the digital instrument console to access a range of features such as turn-by-turn navigation.
    SuperSoco CT-3 Electric Scooter
    Super Soco CT-3 engine and specs
    CT-3 performance is just as good as conventional ICE powered maxi-scooters. It packs in an 18kW motor, connected to a 7.2kWh battery pack. On a full charge, the scooter can travel a distance of 180 kms. Top speed is around 125 kmph. These numbers are pretty good for an electric maxi-scooter. BMW CE-04 has comparable top speed of 120 kmph. However, its range is 130km. Recently launched Ola S1 Pro has top speed of 115 kmph whereas range is 180 km on full charge.
    Suspension system of Super Soco CT-3 comprises telescopic fork at front and twin gas-charged shock absorbers at rear. The scooter has disc brakes at both ends and ABS is offered as standard. More