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    Electric Vehicle Sales At 1.34 Lakh For FY21 – Cars, Scooters, 3 Wheelers

    Ather electric scooter sales start in DelhiEV segment appears to be on path of recovery after a challenging last year
    Data published by CEEW Centre for Energy Finance (CEEW-CEF) on its electric mobility dashboard reveals that close to 1.34 lakh EVs were sold in FY21. This is lower than the numbers in FY20 and FY19. However, when we look at percentage share of EVs in total vehicle sales of India, the figure is 0.88%. This is the highest ever in a financial year. Cumulative sales of EVs since FY12 have crossed 6.38 lakh units.
    Category wise EV sales
    Three wheeler EVs continue to lead in terms of sales numbers in FY21. A total of 88,378 units were sold, which is 66.04% of total EV sales. Two wheelers are next with sales of 40,837 units. Share in sales is 30.51%. 4-wheeler EVs are placed at third place with sales of 4,588 units. Percentage share in sales is 3.43%. Goods vehicle EV sales were just 28 units in FY21.
    EV Sales FY 2021. Data – CEEW-CEF
    Comparing the data with previous years, three wheeler EVs have lost quite a bit of their sales. Three wheeler EV sales in FY20 were close to 1.41 lakh units. In comparison, both two wheeler and 4-wheelers have registered significant YoY growth in FY21. As for goods vehicle EVs, their sales have been declining since FY18.
    4-wheeler EV segment is expected to register strong growth in the near future, as more than 23 new products are scheduled for launch by FY22. CEEW-CEF’s dashboard also reveals the savings one can make by switching from petrol to an electric vehicle.
    Tata Nexon EV is India’s best selling passenger electric car.
    In Delhi, if a user shifts from petrol sedan to EV sedan, the cost savings work out at Rs 30,000 per annum. In case of two wheeler EVs, the savings work out at around Rs 8k per annum.
    EV sales – statewise data
    Uttar Pradesh, Bihar and Karnataka are the top three states, based on their contribution to EV sales in FY21. Uttar Pradesh alone contributed close to a quarter of overall EV sales. A total of 31,584 EVs were sold in the state in FY21. The top ten states in EV sales contributed around 88% of the overall EVs sold in FY21.
    Data on FAME-II subsidy scheme reveals that there’s a lot more potential to be unlocked in EV space. Only 4.25% of sales targets have been achieved under FAME-II. It is possible that many buyers are still not aware of the various subsidies and benefits available under FAME-II.
    By 2030, total EV sales in the country are expected to cross 14.8 million units. To get there, all stakeholders will have to make efforts to resolve the current set of issues such as range anxiety, lack of readily available charging stations, high upfront cost of EVs, and limited finance options. More

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    Harley Davidson 300cc Cruiser Detailed In Real World Images

    Harley Davidson 300cc CruiserIf launched in India, it will have a long list of rivals from Royal Enfield in addition to retro-styled classic motorcycles from Jawa and Honda
    About a month ago, we got a sneak peek of the upcoming SRV 300 roadster manufactured by Chinese bikemaker Qianjiang Motor. With Harley Davidson joining hands with Qianjiang in 2019, we suspect this bike to be rebadged wearing the logo of the iconic American brand.
    Another set of spy shots of what appears to be the final production-spec SRV 300 has surfaced on the internet. Qianjiang, the parent company of Italian brand Benelli, is planning to launch the motorcycle in its home market in a few weeks. The approval documents attached to the image that was leaked last month shared a few details about the upcoming cruiser.
    Mechanical Specs
    The SRV 300 will be propelled by an all-new 296cc V-Twin motor which has been tuned to produce around 30 bhp. This unit will be linked to a six-speed gearbox. The cruiser can clock a top speed of 128 kmph and would be rich on bottom-end torque thanks to its V-Twin configuration.
    A low kerb weight of 163 kg would translate to high power to weight ratio, thus ensuring a spirited performance. Also, it makes for a very efficient motorcycle for daily commutes.
    Harley Davidson 300cc Cruiser
    The cruiser borrows certain inspiration from Harley Davidson’s most popular bobber Iron 883. For instance, it features the same suspension setup comprising USD front forks and rear mono-shock apart from a water-cooled, overhead-cam V-Twin engine neatly fitted with a radiator.
    Other specifications known as of now are a wheelbase of 1400mm and 16-inch wheels with disc brakes on both ends. Not just mechanically, SRV 300 adopts the design philosophy of its American cousin.
    Harley-inspired Design
    It sports a traditional low-slung cruiser stance with a tapered handlebar, a low saddle and slightly forward-set footpegs. Other design highlights inspired by Harley models are a teardrop-shaped fuel tank, a round headlight and metal bodywork.
    Harley Davidson 300cc Cruiser
    The single-piece seat looks comfy enough for the rider but seems a little too short to accommodate a pillion. The motorcycle receives a blacked-out theme with a dark treatment given to the engine-gearbox assembly, suspension setup, swingarm, alloy wheels, handlebar and rearview mirrors.
    As far as features go, SRV 300 will be equipped with a full LED lighting setup and a digital instrument cluster. Safety will be taken care of by a dual-channel ABS as standard. It is yet to be confirmed if SRV 300 will indeed be rebadged into a Harley Davidson model but there are strong indications that it will. Launch in India could be on the cards under the new Hero MotoCorp – Harley Davidson partnership. More

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    Mahindra Mojo Aero Tested, Bolt-On Adv Body Kit By Autologue Design

    Mahindra Mojo ADV Kit by Autologue DesignMahindra Mojo doesn’t have a direct rival in the market but competes against the likes of Bajaj Dominar and Jawa
    Of all the touring bikes currently on sale in the market, Mahindra Mojo seems the most underrated. Clearly, it had to bear the brunt of poor marketing and substandard sales and service network of the company’s two-wheeler division that never really took off. Despite that Mojo has been able to create a small niche consumer base for itself even in such a competitive environment.
    At first glance, one has to admit that Mojo is able to grab all of his/her attention thanks to its unique design. The twin round halogen headlamps setup with an oddly shaped headlamp cowl gives it a quirky styling. Yet it possesses all basic qualities of a good touring machine.
    Mahindra Mojo ADV Kit by Autologue Design
    Updated Design
    Autologue Design, a Pune-based, aftermarket customisation workshop has developed a new body kit specifically for Mojo that turns it into an adventure motorcycle, at least on its look side.
    Dubbed Mahindra Mojo Explorer, the motorcycle wears a new aftermarket body kit over its stock body panels. In its new attire, Mojo Explorer looks a proper adventure tourer with a redesigned fuel tank, a tinted front screen to keep away the wind burst and a traditional beak as seen in most contemporary.
    Mahindra Mojo ADV Kit by Autologue Design
    Handlebar is taller for a better reach while tyres wrapped around 17-inch alloy wheels also seem to be dual-purpose ones. The Mahindra insignia is still intact beneath the fuel tank.
    Mahindra Mojo ADV Kit by Autologue Design
    However, hardware components such as the front forks, subframe and swingarm which are wrapped in golden paint in Touring Edition have been blacked out like the rest of the components. Therefore underneath it is the same motorcycle as the stock model.
    Specifications & Features
    In its BS6 iteration, Mahindra Mojo is powered by a 294.72cc single-cylinder, fuel-injected, liquid-cooled motor that churns out 25.37 bhp and a torque of 25.96 Nm. This unit is paired to a six-speed gearbox.
    Mahindra Mojo ADV Kit by Autologue Design
    Hardware of the bike consists of a Twin Tube Exposed frame suspended on conventional telescopic forks at front and a gas-charged mono-shock at rear. Disc brakes at both ends with 320mm and 240mm rotors at front and rear respectively carry out stopping duties.
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    In terms of features, it is offered with a semi-digital instrument console with digital readings for odometer, speedometer, tachometer and trip meter. Lighting setup comprises twin-pod halogen headlamps, LED DRLs and LED taillamp. Safety net is provided by a dual-channel ABS as standard. It is currently priced between Rs 1.99 lakh and Rs 2.11 lakh (ex-showroom, India). More

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    Bajaj Chetak Electric Scooter Chennai And Hyderabad Launch Soon

    Image – Nitish NeoBajaj Chetak electric scooter recently received a price hike of up to Rs 28k – Bookings are currently closed
    The Bajaj Chetak electric scooter, launched in January 2020 entered the electric two wheeler segment with much fanfare. It managed to garner bookings to the extent of 2,000 units but then the COVID-19 pandemic struck and sales ebbed. Till March 2021, Chetak scooter sales stood at about 1,400 units.
    Chetak’s Next Two New Cities
    This is only from two cities – Pune and Bangalore. Bajaj has not launched Chetak in any other city till now. They had plans to launch Chetak in multiple cities by end of 2020, but due to Covid19, that plan has gotten delayed.
    As on date, Bajaj Auto is only selling this e-scooter via its 13 dealerships in the cities of Pune and Bengaluru. Bajaj Auto has just announced the next two cities which will get their state of the art electric scooter. These are Chennai and Hyderabad. Both these cities are expected to get the Chetak in the next few days. Exact timeline has not been announced yet.
    Bajaj Chetak Electric Expansion Plans
    Chetak Price Hike
    Bajaj Chetak is presented in two variants of Urbane and Premium. At the time of launch in Jan 2020, these were priced at Rs.1,00,000 and Rs.1,15,000 respectively. After the recent price hike in April 2021, these variants are now priced at Rs 1,42,620 and Rs 1,44,620. All prices are ex-sh.
    Both the variants are powered by the same powertrain with the key difference being a drum brake in the Urbane. The company has also revealed future plans to make the Chetak a global brand with the first step being initiated to patent the Chetak electric design for the European markets.
    Bajaj Chetak e-scooter is powered by an electric motor producing 3.8kW/4.1kW continuous/peak power along with a 3 kWh lithium ion battery. It promises a range of 95 kms while in Eco mode and 85 km in Sports mode. The battery has a 3 year/50,000 km warranty.
    Software Update
    Bajaj recently announced a software upgrade, the first for the e-scooter since launch. This software update will see the Chetak with a more accurate range indicator. The company has been contacting owners to bring in the Chetak for the software update which has to be done by a technician at the company’s authorized service center.
    There is a diagnostic tool required for the software upgrade. A port will connect this tool to e-scooter which is located near the right hand side of the pillion footrest. The installation takes a matter of 10 minutes to install but it takes more than 24 hours to take effect.
    Steps to be followed for the software upgrade includes the complete 100 percent SoC charge of the vehicle battery. The e-scooter then has to be ridden till 15 percent SoC following which it has to rest for 12 hours and then again battery should be charged upto 100 percent SoC and again taken for a ride till 15 percent SoC. This will once again be followed by a 12 hour rest and recharge upto 100 percent SoC so as to complete the software upgrade.
    Once completed, the Chetak e-scooter will note two changes. Firstly there will be an improved accuracy in range reading. The fluctuations in actual and displayed distance to empty will be reduced particularly in the case of downhill riding. This will give the rider an accurate assessment of remaining charge. The range will also be enhanced. When taken to the test, the Bajaj Chetak with the software update could travel over a 94 km distance using 94 percent charge while the remaining 6 percent charge allowed the rider to continue till 100 kms. More

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    New Royal Enfield Classic And Hunter Spied Together – Differences Detailed

    New RE Classic and Hunter 350The new-gen Classic 350 is likely to be Royal Enfield’s next big-ticket launch while Hunter 350 might launch towards the end of this year
    Royal Enfield is planning to launch a host of new motorcycles in the coming few years based on its new-gen J platform. The entry-level motorcycles will be powered by the new 350cc motor that currently powers Meteor 350 and will soon be extended to the next generation Classic 350 and other models in future as well.
    Among the many models in prospect, one that has grabbed attention of many is the Meteor 350 based classic roadster which is speculated to be named Hunter. A spy video uploaded by Grasholt Vlogs on YouTube shows the upcoming motorcycle in its near production-spec model alongside the upcoming new-gen Classic 350.
    New Classic 350
    At first glance, Hunter does remind us of Meteor 350 which sports a similar stance as the latter. As already mentioned, the roadster will share its underpinnings with the latest cruiser from Royal Enfield but looks a tad sportier.
    Test mules of Hunter have been frequently spied on Indian roads over the last few months. Although the motorcycle in the latest images is only partially wrapped in camouflage thereby revealing its attributes to a greater extent.
    New Hunter 350
    Retro Yet Sporty Styling
    As all Royal Enfield bikes, Hunter also carries a retro-style design with signature styling highlights such as a teardrop-shaped fuel tank, a round headlamp, a round turn taillamp with turn indicators, a single-piece seat and a short rear section.
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    Like Meteor 350, Hunter will also ride on alloy wheels but likely to be wrapped by 17-inch rubber on both ends. Other notable highlights include an upward sweeping exhaust canister, muscular front, muscular front end, split grab rails, wide tyres and redesigned side panels.
    The bike’s sporty appeal is highlighted by an all-black theme carried by its handlebar, alloy wheels, engine casing, exhaust pipe and suspension setup. The shortened muffler further accentuates its sportiness. It is likely to offer a comfortable riding position as the footpegs are centre placed with a wide raised handlebar and low saddle.
    Features
    The most highlighted attribute, however, is the semi-digital instrument console which features a Tripper Navigation Pod. Interestingly, this pod was missing in the previous set of spy shots that was leaked. Powered by Google Maps and Royal Enfield App, Tripper provides turn-by-turn navigation on the console when paired to one’s smartphone via Bluetooth. The analogue unit contains the speedometer while the digital display should read information from the odometer and fuel gauge.
    Mechanical Specs
    Powering the Hunter will be a 349cc single-cylinder air-cooled OHC engine that can push out 20.2 bhp and 27 Nm of peak torque. This motor will be paired with a 5-speed gearbox and is more refined than the previous generation 350cc engine thanks to a counter-balance shaft. Suspension duties will be handled by 35 mm telescopic forks at front and twin gas-charged shocks at rear. Stopping duties will be carried out by disc braked on both wheels assisted by dual-channel ABS.
    Upon its launch, Royal Enfield Hunter will directly rival the likes of Honda H’NEss CB350, Jawa Forty-Two and Benelli Imperiale 400. It is likely to be priced around Rs 1.80 lakh (ex-showroom). More

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    2021 Yamaha FZ-X Specs Leak Ahead Of Launch – Based On FZ 150

    2021 Yamaha FZ-XFZ-X will help Yamaha strengthen its portfolio in 150cc-200cc motorcycle segment
    Several speculations have been put to rest with Yamaha FZ-X getting type approval certificate. Earlier, it was believed that Yamaha was planning to launch XSR 250 in the Indian market. That too may be in the works. But it’s now certain that Yamaha will be launching FZ-X first in the Indian market.
    Yamaha FZ-X design and styling
    As revealed in spy shots, Yamaha FZ-X features modern-retro styling. This could be advantageous for the motorcycle, as there’s significant consumer interest in retro themed two-wheelers.
    Some of the key features include fork gaiters, a bulkier looking, box-type fuel tank, flat seat design and short tail. The motorcycle has been equipped with alloy wheels, sleek turn indicators, digital instrument cluster, and upswept exhaust.
    Yamaha FZ-X will offer a comfortable riding stance, which will be suitable for urban commutes as well as long distance touring. It is expected that FZ-X will have multiple India-specific features to suit driving conditions and consumer preferences in the country. Yamaha has followed the same strategy for its other motorcycles such as MT15 and R15.
    2021 Yamaha FZ-X Specs
    Yamaha FZ-X powertrain and specs
    Based on FZ, Yamaha FZ-X will be using the same 149 cc engine. The air-cooled, SOHC unit is capable of generating 12.4PS of max power at 7,250 rpm and 13.3 Nm of max torque at 5,500 rpm. It is mated to a 5-speed, constant mesh transmission.
    Other hardware could also be same such as telescopic front forks and 7-step adjustable monocross rear suspension. Braking duties on FZ are performed by 282 mm disc at the front and 220 mm disc at the rear. Single channel ABS is offered as standard.
    In terms of dimensions, Yamaha FZ-X is longer, wider and taller than FZ. It measures 2020 mm in length, 785 mm in width and 1115 mm in height. In comparison, FZ measures 1,990mm x 780mm x 1,080mm (length x width x height). However, wheelbase of 1330 mm is the same for both motorcycles.
    2021 Yamaha FZ-X
    Yamaha already has a strong presence in 150cc-200cc motorcycle segment with products like FZ, R15 and MT15. Together, these motorcycles command around 20% market share in this space. In February list of bestselling 150cc-200cc motorcycles, FZ, R15 and MT15 were ranked at 4th, 5th and 6th place, respectively. Addition of FZ-X could help boost sales further.
    Talking about pricing, Yamaha FZ-X could retail at around the same price band as that of FZ. Yamaha FZ is available at a starting price of Rs 1.05 lakh (ex-showroom, Delhi). More

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    New Hero HF100 Launch Price Rs 49.4k – Cheaper Than Splendor, HF Deluxe

    2021 Hero HF100Hero HF 100 motorcycle launched to give Hero MotoCorp an all new entry price point in the competitive two-wheeler market
    Commuter segment motorcycles in the 100cc-110cc segment are what make for great volumes. And manufacturers understand this rather well. So, it’s no surprise that Hero MotoCorp now has an even more affordable motorcycle in the popular segment.
    This time the brand has introduced a new entry level product, which in simple words is available for just below 50 grands ex-sh price. For the auto manufacturer, Hero HF 100 its their most affordable offering at present. The entry price point product is an entry level HF Deluxe. This gives, Hero MotoCorp a pedestal to compete against the Bajaj CT 100. The latter has a kickstart variant available at a price of Rs 44,890.
    In keeping with the opportunities the segment presents, Bajaj Bajaj CT110X was launched as a top-end CT variant earlier today. The competitive nature of the segment means manufacturers are leaving no stone unturned and covering all bases to ensure they have something for everyone.
    Hero HF 100 kickstart variant
    In keeping costs competitive, HF 100 is a kickstart and drum brake model in basic trim. Its skeletal form sucks to functionality and form over frills. Buyers will have to pick a black bike. Alloy wheels, and handlebar are in black too.
    2021 Hero HF100
    The black grab rail is slimmer. The unit does use the same 97.2cc, air-cooled engine to return 7.91bhp of power, and 8.05Nm of peak torque, paired to a four-speed gearbox. Shared features include telescopic forks, dual shock absorbers, 130mm drum brakes, and 18-inch wheels.
    The large scale commuter market has such great potential that it can be tapped into again and again. And each time, there are new buyers. Of course FY21 has been a trying period but that doesn’t undermine the potential of the segment. Hero’s 2nd best selling motorcycle, HF Deluxe is priced from Rs 50,700, ex-Delhi. Hero’s best selling motorcycle is Splendor. It is priced from Rs 62.5k, ex-Delhi.
    Segment practicality is enhanced considering such units are workhorses and could very well be a requirement for those who are keen on delivery jobs, among other things. Furthermore, current needs to shield ourselves against the spread of Covid-19 means two-wheelers can be that platform of safe daily commute.
    2021 Hero HF100
    Hero MotoCorp market dominance
    Hero MotoCorp already dominates the market in more ways than why. Whether it be their wide range of products, competitive price points and humungous sales volume, Hero has a handle on things. Its dominance will likely take long to be challenged, if at all.
    Considering their wide ranging product availability, introducing a new motorcycle as HF 100 is all about tapping into market research that determines what the market wants. Through FY21, Hero MotoCorp was able to improve its market share. More

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    2022 KTM Duke 250, Duke 125 Spied Testing – New Details Revealed

    2022 KTM Duke 125, 250 Spied TestingKTM currently retails Duke 125 and Duke 250 in India at a price of Rs 1.51 lakh and Rs 2.17 lakh (ex-showroom)
    KTM is aggressively working towards revamping its current portfolio of products, especially the ones in the lower end of the spectrum. The lower end of KTM’s lineup (up to 400cc) has a sizeable market share in developing countries such as India. While we already know about KTM’s plan of bringing a new generation model of RC 390, it is certainly not the only which will receive a major upgrade in the near future.
    The Austrian bikemaker is also developing a new generation model of its entry-level Duke 125 along with its quarter-litre sibling Duke 250. Test prototypes of both models were recently spotted somewhere in Europe. Both motorcycles received their latest updates last year with emission standards upgraded to BS6 and Euro-5 norms.
    2022 KTM Duke 125, 250 Spied Testing
    The company also took this opportunity to provide the bikes with a few aesthetic updates. However, going by the images it looks as if the upgrades this time around will be sufficiently more prominent.
    For starters, it appears both motorcycles have ditched the looks of Duke 390 and worn bodywork of their own. Along with new styling elements, the bikes have incorporated some major changes under their skin in the form of chassis and powertrain updates.
    2022 KTM Duke 125, 250 Spied Testing
    Duke 125 Redesigned Style
    Starting with the smallest member of Duke family, KTM 125 flaunts the same two-piece frame configuration however the Trellis frame construction is visibly different with additional crossbeams making it more robust. In addition, the subframe looks much longer than the current version. It also gets a new swingarm with a new support brace that arches up and over the chain drive.
    2022 KTM Duke 125, 250 Spied Testing
    Interestingly, the Duke 125 mule spotted was not wearing any of its bodywork hence it is not possible to compare it with the current model although it does get a new headlamp unit.
    Duke 250- Mechanical Updates
    On the other, Duke 250 prototype was fully clothed with a new set of body panels giving it a new sense of identity. Unlike its smaller sibling, Duke 250 completely does away with the Trellis subframe and replaces it with a composite version in line with the flagship Duke 1290 which got upgraded earlier this year.
    2022 KTM Duke 125, 250 Spied Testing
    In accordance with the new subframe, the suspension setup now consists of a side-mounted rear shock that is starkly different from the center-mounted setup of the current iteration of Duke 250.
    The swingarm gets the same arched support brace from Duke 125. Seeing the similarity between the design of two swingarms, it is possible that the 125cc derivative could also feature a side-mounted shock at rear. Duke 125’s swingarm also boasts a new wavy design in line with the conventional trellis frame pattern. Other updates include knuckle guards at front and a redesigned headlamp unit.
    2022 KTM Duke 125, 250 Spied Testing
    Powertrain Specs
    Powertrains on both motorcycles are also expected to witness some updates. However, the nature of updates is yet to be known. Currently, Duke 125 is powered by a 124.7cc single-cylinder liquid-cooled engine that pumps out 14 bhp at 9,250rpm and a peak torque of 12 Nm at 8000rpm. Whereas, Duke 250 draws its energy from a 248.8cc single-cylinder liquid-cooled DOHC engine that cranks out 29 bhp at 9000rpm and 24 Nm at 7500rpm. Both units are paired with a 6-speed gearbox.
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