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      Benda LFC700 Cruiser Officially Revealed – Global Debut In July

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      Benda LFC 700Benda LFC700 has been designed as a futuristic mid-displacement power cruiser and is based on the LF-01 Concept unveiled last year
      Chinese automakers are infamous for ripping off designs from international models and using them for their own local versions. However, Benda Motorcycles quashed this theory when it officially unveiled LFC700 recently and is expected to go on sale from July 1 this year in China.
      The cruiser takes heavy inspiration, in terms of design, from its pre-production concept version showcased at the Chongqing Motor Show in China in September last year. The brand must be credited for adopting a thoroughly fresh design instead of ripping apart a BMW or Harley Davidson even though the overall styling feels a bit polarising.
      Overall Styling
      The motorcycle looks sharp and beefy while sleek and sophisticated aluminium body panels make it look futuristic. This is contrasting to contemporary mid-capacity displacement cruisers which usually adopt a retro-styling for a cruiser in this space.
      In this case, the motorcycle flaunts styling elements such as a round LED headlamp, metallic fork covers and brawny tank shrouds. The most notable highlight, however, is the fighter jet-inspired headlight that gets small gaps serving as air intake vents.
      Benda LFC 700
      The single-piece seat follows the motorcycle’s fluid design language and is extremely accessible at a height of 695mm. Further complemented by a low scoop stance, forward-set footpegs and a drag handlebar, the motorcycle would ensure a comfortable riding posture. However, the production-spec version could feature footboards, instead of the small pegs. The fat tyres, especially the 310mm cross-section at rear further add a hint of a bobber to its appeal.
      Features on offer
      The concept bike revealed earlier last year presented features such as a full-colour TFT display, a slipper assist clutch, cruise control, ride-by-wire throttle, ABS as well as hill start assist. However, the production version misses out on a couple of techs including ride-by-wire throttle and cruise control. In spite of this, LFC700 is one of the better-equipped machines in its segment.
      Engine, Hardware Specs
      Coming to performance, LFC700 is powered by a 680cc inline-four liquid-cooled engine that is capable of churning out 96.55 bhp at 12000rpm. This unit is mated to a six-speed gearbox with a slipper clutch while top speed has been capped at 180 kmph. Speaking of its dynamics, the motorcycle is underpinned by a twin-spar frame with an all-aluminium body which constricts the weight of the motorcycle to 215 kilos.
      Benda LFC 700
      Hardware comprises a fully adjustable suspension setup featuring USD forks at front and a mono-shock at rear. It rides on 19-inch and 18-inch front and rear alloy wheels respectively. Braking duties are taken care of by disc brakes at both ends which are assisted by Bosch dual-channel ABS.
      Although prices are not yet revealed, its initial launch price is expected to be pegged between CNY 40,000 and CNY 50,000 (equivalent to INR 4.58 lakh-5.75 lakh). It is hardly expected to arrive at Indian shores since the company Benda Motorcycles has no base in India in the first place. More

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      Royal Enfield Thunderbird Gets Harley CVO Makeover That’s Drool Worthy

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      Royal Enfield Thunderbird Modified
      It’s one of those modification projects that you would want for your own motorcycle
      Royal Enfield motorcycles have been one of the preferred options for modification projects. Their relatively simpler assembly and the ability to support modifications without causing structural issues are among the key reasons for their popularity among customization shops and enthusiasts. The latest mod job comes from Bengaluru-based Bulleteer Customs, who have carried out a Harley Davidson CVO inspired customization on Royal Enfield Thunderbird.
      Key updates
      Most of the changes in this modification project have been undertaken at the front and rear of the motorcycle. The most noticeable change at the front is the addition of a broad fairing. This is one of the key features that give the motorcycle the CVO look and feel.
      The front fairing has a modest sized windscreen, which should provide adequate protection. The fairing appears to have an aerodynamic profile, which should be helpful in tackling headwinds.
      At the rear, the motorcycle gets hard case panniers on both sides along with a hard case top box. These additions are also in line with Harley Davidson CVO. The additional storage should suffice for luggage and other equipment that people usually carry on long distance tours.
      Royal Enfield Thunderbird Modified
      To make the rides even more comfortable, custom designed seats have been added. The motorcycle has alloy wheels and makes use of various other aftermarket components such as LED headlamp, LED turn indicators, rear view mirrors, exhaust and tyres.
      Royal Enfield Thunderbird Modified
      The modified motorcycle has been named Royal Enfield Odyssey. The ‘Odyssey’ badging can be seen on the front fairing and rear panniers. It’s placed as part of the golden pinstripping (Madras stripes), which has been a signature feature of Royal Enfield motorcycles. For the uninitiated, it is worth noting that this pinstripping is still done by hand by highly skilled artists.
      Work in progress
      According to the modifier, this project will witness some more changes in the days to come. There are plans to introduce a cooler compartment that will allow space for beverages. A complete music system could also be added to the motorcycle.
      Royal Enfield Thunderbird Modified
      Harley CVO inspired Thunderbird modification looks great, but there’s room for improvements. For example, the middle section looks a bit hollowed. The engine apparatus does not look proportional to the large front fairing and pannier loaded rear section. If you look at original Harley CVO, it has a fat profile all around. If the middle section can be fixed, this modified Royal Enfield Odyssey will turn out much better.
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      Ola Electric Scooter Will Also Be Sold Internationally – Post India Launch

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      Ola Electric Scooter
      Ola electric scooter will be launched in key international markets in FY22 following its Indian debut
      The impending launch of Ola scooter has garnered much attention. While the Indian electric vehicle market continues to grow, volumes hardly make a dent. What’s needed is the right push button to make electric scooters a popular choice. And for now, that’s majorly missing.
      With Ola e-scooter mega factory project bringing spearheading a larger than life development, this could very bring a much needed growth impetus for electric scooters. Already product ready, Ola is currently working round the clock to bring up its production facility.
      Ola electric scooter launch
      While it may all seem a distant, Ola pretty much only needs a few weeks to bring its product to the market. Tentatively in July 2021. And that’s only a start. The company has a multi prong growth plan wherein international business is important. And this too will be executed in the current fiscal.
      In fact, opportunities are endless. And the giant 2.4k crore Tamil Nadu plant is just one chapter in this saga. The company is keen to take its Ola scooter product range to key markets in India within a short period of beginning sales in India.
      Ola Electric Scooter India Plant – 3D Render
      Work on the Hypercharger Network is ongoing. This in itself will be scaled up to be a force to reckon with. Plans are afoot to a lakh charging points over 400 cities. This offers insight to Ola’s plans of expansion in India. While most manufacturer’s selling electric two-wheelers in India have chosen to go from city to city as part of expansion, Ola has already set its sight over a larger territory.
      Hypercharger Network potential
      Another major difference from other electric two-wheeler manufacturers is its immediate focus on international markets. Traditional manufacturers are making space within existing plants to manufacture electric scooters.
      Newer manufacturers are building smaller plants. But Ola has spearheaded its idea with guns blazing. And with little or no competition in this space, Ola could very well lead as soon as it commences ops.
      Even the Hypercharger Network proffers possibilities. It will be expanded to cater to electric cars. And with that, the company offers just the slightest hint regarding its advent into production of electric four-wheelers in the years to come. One can start counting down the days to Q2 FY22, which will herald Ola’s electric scooter debut. More

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      Bajaj Trademarks Fluir, Fluor Names – For Future Electric Motorcycle?

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      Image of Zero Motorcycle for reference
      The upcoming Bajaj electric motorcycle will rival the likes of other electric motorcycles such as Revolt RV400 and Okinawa Cruiser among others
      Bajaj Auto, like every other OEM in India, is looking to broaden its product portfolio. It has come to light that the Pune based two-wheeler manufacturer has filed new trademarks for Fluir and Fluor monikers in the country. Speculations indicate that these names would be used for the brand’s upcoming range of electric products.
      Fluir is a Spanish word that stands for flow (of steam or fluids). Since both the names sound similar, it might be the case where only one brand name gets utilised. Bajaj already retails an electric two-wheeler in the form of Chetak electric scooter. It is possible that at least one of these two trademarks could be used for an electric motorcycle.
      Bajaj FLUIR
      Upcoming Electric Two-wheelers
      While trademark applications don’t say that they can only be used for a battery-powered vehicle. However, adding more sub-brands for conventional IC engine-powered vehicles does not make much sense since Bajaj already has at least five of them in its current lineup.
      If Bajaj uses these monikers for conventionally powered two-wheelers, the company will most probably have to delete some models from its portfolio which is not likely to happen in the near future.
      Bajaj FLUOR
      An electric motorcycle seems the best bet since the trio alliance of Bajaj, KTM and Husqvarna are planning to amplify their electric lineup of models. While the Austrian and Swedish bikemakers will be utilising the platform of Chetak Electric to build their own respective e-scooters, Bajaj might very well do the same with its own version of a rebadged Husqvarna E-Pilen which was recently revealed to the world.
      If it turns out the way we speculate, the new electric bike from the Indian automaker is expected to be powered by a 8kW electric motor. While other specifications are yet to be revealed, the bike in all probability will feature a battery swapping technology to address range anxiety issues. A similarly specced bike is also expected to don the orange of KTM at some stage.
      Chetak Electric
      On the other hand, Chetak Electric is powered by a 3kWh battery pack paired with a 4kW electric motor which returns a peak output of 16 Nm torque. It is offered with two drive modes- Eco and Sport.
      The e-scooter offers a maximum range of 95km in Eco mode while in Sport mode it offers a range of 85km on a single charge. Bajaj retails Chetak in two trims namely Urbane and Premium at a starting price of Rs 1.42 lakh (ex-showroom). More

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      Two Wheeler Sales April 2021 – Hero, Bajaj, Honda, TVS, Suzuki, Royal Enfield

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      Image – MRD VlogsWhile Hero leads in domestic sales, Bajaj tops export markets in April
      Adverse impact of Covid second wave is clearly evident on two wheeler domestic sales in April, which are down by -33.95% (MoM). A total of 9,53,338 units were sold in April 2021, as compared to 14,43,320 units in March 2021. All two wheeler manufacturers except Suzuki have negative MoM growth in April. The adverse situation could continue in the coming months since there’s a lot of uncertainly from rising Covid cases and lockdowns.
      Two wheeler domestic sales April 2021
      Even though its MoM sales are down by -37.06%, Hero continues to be the top selling brand. The company sold a total of 3,42,614 units in April, as compared to 5,44,340 units in March. Market share is at 23.74% in April.
      Honda is next with sales of 2,40,100 units in April. MoM growth is down by -39.22%, as compared to 3,95,037 units sold in March. Honda commanded a market share of 16.64% in April. At number three is TVS with sales of 1,31,386 units in April. MoM de-growth is at -35.01%, as compared to 2,02,155 units sold in March. TVS market share is at 9.10% in April.
      At number four is Bajaj with sales of 1,26,570 units in April. MoM growth has come down by -30.22%, as compared to 1,81,393 units sold in March. Market share is at 8.77%. Suzuki is placed at fifth place with sales of 63,879 units in April. MoM sales are positive at 6.07%, as compared to 60,222 units sold in March. Suzuki market share is at 4.43% in April.
      Two Wheeler Sales and Exports – April 2021
      Royal Enfield is next with sales of 48,789 units in April. MoM sales are down by -18.92%, as compared to 60,173 units sold in March. Royal Enfield market share in April is at 3.38%.
      Two wheeler exports April 2021
      Bajaj’s strategy to focus aggressively on both domestic and international markets appears to be paying rich dividends in these challenging times. While the company’s domestic sales are down, it is utilizing opportunities available in international markets. As a result, Bajaj exports have zoomed close to 50% in April. A total of 2,21,603 units were exported in April, as compared to 1,48,740 units in March. Percentage share in exports is a whopping 69.63%.
      TVS is another home-bred two wheeler manufacturer that has strong focus on exports. However, export growth in April is negative at -9.95%. A total of 94,807 units were exported in April, as compared to 1,05,282 units in March. Percentage share in exports is 29.79%.
      At number three is Honda, with a staggering 168.41% rise in MoM export growth. A total of 42,945 units were exported in April, as compared to 16,000 units in March. Share in exports is at 13.49%. Other two wheeler brands in the list include Hero (29,671 units), Suzuki (13,970), and Royal Enfield (4,509). Of these, only Suzuki has positive MoM growth. More

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      Honda Scooter, Motorcycle Sales April 2021 – Activa, Dio, Shine, Hornet, CB350

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      Honda ActivaHonda 2Wheelers reports total (domestic wholesales and exports) sales in April 2021 at 2,83,045 units
      The market is a strange place now. In a most astounding fashion, Bajaj has surpassed Honda Two Wheelers total sales in April 2021. This is on account of notable growth in exports for Bajaj.
      Total sales stood at just below 3.5 lakh units. Honda Two Wheelers sold a total of 2,83,045 units. MoM decline stood at 31.14 percent, down from 4,11,037 units. Volume decline stood at 1,27,992 units. Best sellers include Activa, CB Shine, Dio, Grazia, Unicorn, Dream, Hornet, etc. CB350 too recorded decent sales.
      Honda Sales April 2021
      Of this, domestic sales stood at 2,40,100 units. MoM decline stood at 39.22 percent, down from 3,95,037 units. Volume decline stood at 1,54,937 units. Exports for the month are reported at 42,945 units. MoM growth was reported at 3 figures, up from 16k units. Volume gain stood at 26,945 units.
      Temp production halt
      Disruption in production, processes, supply chain, and distribution networks is a matter that manufacturers are having to deal with on a daily basis. Through April 2021, Covid-19 infection numbers being reported have continued to touch new highs.
      This in turn has prompted states to announce curated lockdowns yet again. This is not too different from what auto manufacturers experienced in April 2021 when manufacturing and sales had come to an absolute halt.
      And given the current need to proritise on safety, and save lives, a number of manufacturers have announced a production halt for a varying number of days. Starting on Labour Day, Honda Two-Wheelers has temporarily halted production until May 15, 2021. The shutdown will be used effectively to advance annual maintenance schedules.
      Decisions in regard to resuming production will be made in accordance with the what the Covid-19 situation looks like in a fortnight. For now, those who can work from home are doing so, and only essential staff is being called in to work at the company’s plants, and offices.
      HMSI scope
      On the global front, Honda is working on electric motorcycles and scooters. Given the potential India supposedly has, one could expect a Honda electric scooter to be a first product from the brand here.
      Honda Two Wheelers India plays an important part in Honda’s global strategy. For one, Honda has a large marketshare in India. And in the last two decades, it has expanded its global footprint from here through exports. Last year with the introduction of CB350, HMSI has chalked out a new path to make inroads.
      For one, this is a sizeable segment in India with rather few competitors where brands are concerned. It’s more like Royal Enfield pitting its bikes against each other. And Honda has finally put it’s foot through the door. It’s 350cc range isn’t just being sold here, but is also being exported. More

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      New Benelli Electric Scooter Makes Global Debut With 60 Kms Range

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      Benelli Dong Electric Scooter
      Dong e-scooter has been designed strictly as an urban mobility solution with a single-charge range of only 60km
      Now, the Chinese are very well known for quirky and out-of-the-box designs and not in a good way. That is why most of their automotive designs are ripped off from international models. If you think, you have seen the craziest automotive designs then you are in for a treat, thanks to the new Benelli Dong electric scooter.
      Benelli recently introduced the mini e-scooter in Indonesia and it is certainly difficult to ignore despite its miniature size. The design is something very original that we doubt has been witnessed anywhere around the world. It has been designed to position as an affordable means of electric mobility.
      Benelli Dong Electric Scooter
      Quirky Design
      The e-scooter gets a curvy front apron that gels well with a cylindrical shape rear section with an under-seat panel housing the battery and electric motor. The floorboard tapers towards the rear to meet a silver-coloured serpentine-style swingarm.
      The e-scooter will be made available in three colour options- blue, dark grey and white. Other highlights include full-LED lighting, a circular LED DRL, turn indicators mounted on the handle, a large grab rail at rear and a negative LCD display for the instrument cluster.
      Benelli Dong Electric Scooter
      Modest Specs
      Speaking of its specifications, the majority of under-seat space is taken up by the 1.56kWh lithium-ion battery pack which is paired to a 1.2kW electric motor rated to produce a peak torque of 24.8 Nm. This powertrain returns a range of 60km on a single charge and can attain a top speed of only 45 kmph.
      Benelli Dong Electric Scooter
      Needless to point that it has been solely designed for short-distance urban commutes. The hub motor employed ensures that there is no need for either a chain or shaft drive system.
      This setup doesn’t leave much space for anything else in the under-seat storage, hence it isn’t the most practical scooter going around. The shape of the seat also wouldn’t be exactly ideal for a pillion. Another interesting bit of feature is the fake exhaust noise which gives it the vibe of a conventional IC engine-powered scooter. Fortunately, this feature could be turned off.
      Benelli Dong Electric Scooter
      Benelli Electric Scooter Price
      The Italian bike brand is owned by Chinese automaker Qianjiang Motors and little to doubt, we believe that QJ must have been involved in the development of this mini e-scooter on some level. Dong has been priced at 36.8 million Indonesian Rupiah that is equivalent to INR 1.89 lakh. Dong is surely a head-turner but is it valuable enough to be owned?

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      TVS Motor Sales April 2021 – Apache, Jupiter, Ntorq, XL Super

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      TVS ApacheTVS Motor now gears up for the launch of the updated Apache RR 310 which has been rescheduled due to the pandemic situation in the country
      TVS Motor Company has released their sales report for April 2021. While sales cannot be compared with that of April 2020, the period when the country went into a complete lockdown in view of the pandemic, we can compare sales MoM which also suffered a de-growth.
      TVS Motor total sales stood at 238,983 units in April 2021 a significant increase over 9,640 units sold in April 2020. Even April 2021 has been bogged down by lockdowns announced in some states in view of the second wave of the COVID-19 pandemic, but retail sales continued to be ahead of dispatches. TVS Motor has reduced dealer stocks so as to not to put added burden on channel partners but production will continue so as to meet customer demands once the situation is back to normal.
      TVS Motor Two Wheeler Sales and Exports
      TVS Motor registered two wheeler sales at 2,26,193 in April 2021 as against 8,134 units sold in April 2020. In domestic markets, two wheeler sales stood at 131,386 units in April 2021. Of these, scooter sales stood at 65,213 units in April 2021 while motorcycle sales were at 133,227 units in April 2021.
      Total exports on the other hand stood at 107,185 units in April 2021 as against 9,640 units exported in April 2020. Two wheeler exports stood at 94,807 units in April 2021 as against 8,134 units in April 2020. Leading two wheelers in terms of sales and exports include Apache, Jupiter, Ntorq, XL Super, Star City, Pep+, etc.
      TVS Motor Sales April 2021 vs March 2021
      The fear of the second wave, lockdowns in several states and supply constraints saw lower footfalls through the month of April 21 over that in March 21, the month when Covid positive cases in the country was on the ebb.
      Where MoM two wheeler domestic sales were concerned, TVS Motor Co had sold 1,31,386 units in March 21, a de-growth of 35.01 percent over 2,02,155 units sold in March 21. Two wheeler exports also dipped MoM by 9.95 percent from 1,05,282 units exported in March 21 to 94,807 units exported in the past month. Total two wheeler sales stood at 2,26,193 units in April 21 down 26.43 percent over 3,07,437 units sold in March 21.
      TVS Motor Three Wheeler Sales and Exports
      Taking into account YoY three wheeler sales, the company reported sales of 12,790 units in April 2021 as against 1,506 units in April 2020. Three wheeler MoM sales however, dipped both in terms of domestic sales and exports. Domestic sales fell 62.75 percent to 412 units in April 21 even as sales had stood at 1,106 units in March 21.
      Exports on the other hand dipped 12.46 percent from 14,140 units exported in March 21 to 12,378 units exported in the past month. This took total two and three wheeler sales (domestic and exports) down 25.94 percent to 2,38,983 units in April 21 down from 3,22,683 units sold in March 21.
      Future Plans
      Where future plans are concerned, TVS Motor gears up for the launch of the updated Apache RR 310 in the months ahead while the company also plans to expand sales of the iQube electric scooter in new cities across the country. More