More stories

  • in

    TVS Apache 310 Render Based On Ntorq Design Language

    TVS Apache 310 rendered with Ntorq design languageOne of the bestselling 125cc scooters, TVS Ntorq is popular for its sporty, dominating profile
    Rendering artists are known for their boundless imagination and we have seen some really awe-inspiring transformations from these folks. Whether it’s adding new design elements, new colours, creating concept models or imagining next-gen variants of popular vehicles, automotive artists have always delighted us with their brilliant creations.
    The latest comes from Kerala-based Abin Design, who has carried out a remarkable rendering of a fully-faired sports bike based on the popular TVS Ntorq 125 scooter.
    TVS Ntorq sports bike – key features
    For this rendering project, the primary inspiration has been derived from Race Edition TVS Ntorq. There are two colour options for Race Edition, Red with Black and Yellow with Black. It’s the yellow colour theme that has been chosen for the rendered TVS Ntorq sports bike.
    It’s clear from the rendering that special care has been taken to retain the core theme of TVS Ntorq scooter. At the front, the rendered sports bike has an aggressive profile, quite similar to Ntorq scooter.
    TVS Apache 310 rendered with Ntorq design language
    The motorcycle’s headlight gets T-shaped DRLs, which are derived from Ntorq scooter’s tail lamp. The front turn indicators have been moved to the side fairing and wind screen has been increased in size to match the motorcycle’s bigger proportions.
    Talking about the side profile, we can see that the sports bike’s engine cowl section is similar to the floorboard area of Ntorq scooter. Other similarities include trendy rear view mirrors, sporty stubby muffler, and 3D Ntorq logo.
    There’s an addition of a curved swingarm that gives a distinctive identity to the sports bike. Rendered Ntorq sports bike has red accents and graphics, which further enhance the bike’s visual appeal.
    TVS Apache 310 rendered with Ntorq design language
    There are specific features that appear to be borrowed from TVS Apache RR310 motorcycle. These include the handlebar, golden USD front forks, fuel tank, seat design, and front and rear fenders.
    Possible engine option for Ntorq sports bike
    If this rendering could come alive and if it were to use a TVS engine, it would most probably borrow the one offered with Apache 310. The 312.2cc liquid cooled, single cylinder, reverse inclined engine is capable of delivering 34 ps of max power and 27.3 Nm of peak torque. This is available when the motorcycle is used in Sport or Track riding mode. Performance output drops to 25.8 ps / 25 Nm when Urban or Rain mode is engaged.
    TVS Apache 310 rendered with Ntorq design language
    Rendered Ntorq sports bike could have top speed similar to RR310 that can reach 160 kmph in Sport and Track mode and 125 kmph in Urban and Rain mode. Acceleration can also be close to Apache RR310 that can reach 0-100 kmph in 7.17 seconds. More

  • in

    Yamaha Y16ZR Sport Moped Based On R15 V3 Launched In Malaysia

    New Yamaha Y16ZRYamaha has decided to expand the range of 155cc VVA motor powering YZF R15 to other models in the company’s lineup
    Yamaha YZF R15’s powertrain and underpinnings are so robust and popular, that the Japanese manufacturer keeps on expanding this combination across its lineup. Recently, Yamaha introduced the updated Aerox 155 and NMax 155 based on the same powertrain as the entry-level faired sports bike.
    Sadly, none of these extended members of the R15 family has ever reached the Indian shores. Now, the company has introduced a new R15-based moped named Y16ZR in Malaysia at a price of RM 10,888 (approximately INR 1.91 lakh). The same model was introduced as Yamaha Exciter in Vietnam in December 2020.
    New Yamaha Y16ZR
    Updated Mechanical Specs
    First things first, this sport moped is powered by the same 155cc single-cylinder, liquid-cooled VVA motor featuring in YZF R15. Unlike its scooter siblings mentioned above, Y16ZR receives a slightly higher output of 17.5 bhp at 9,500 rpm and 14.4 Nm of peak torque at 8,000 rpm.
    For reference, R15 receives an output of 18.3 bhp and 14.1 Nm of torque featuring the same engine. This unit is mated to a six-speed gearbox with a slipper and assist clutch. Take a look at the official TVC below, where the sport moped is taking on a race track at top speeds of over 120 kmph.
    [embedded content]
    In terms of dynamics, it is built on a new frame that has been reshaped to incorporate this new 155cc VVA motor. The architecture features a thicker 4.5mm engine mount with a new Y-Shaped reinforcement collar.
    Yamaha claims that this new chassis has been optimised for improved cornering performance at high speeds. Its suspension setup consists of telescopic forks at front and a preload-adjustable mono-shock at rear. It rides on 17-inch wheels on both ends while stopping duties are handled by single disc brakes at both ends.
    Features on offer
    As far as features are concerned, it gets fairly loaded equipment that consists of full-LED lighting and a full LCD instrument console that displays critical information from the speedometer, tachometer, gear position indicator and more. The handlebar switchgear also comes with a passing light on the left and a kill switch on the right.
    In addition to these, Y16ZR also gets features such as a 12-Volt DC charging socket, keyless operation with call back function and engine immobilizer, some of which are missing even in YZF R15. Fuel capacity has been increased from 4.2-litres in its previous iteration Y15ZR to 5.4-litres in the latest iteration. The sport moped tips the weighing scale at 119kg while saddle height has been pegged at 795mm.
    Yamaha is offering the new Y16ZR in three colour options Arrow Blue, Raging Yellow and Phantom Grey. Also, the first 5,000 consumers of this new moped will receive a Royal Selangor Y16ZR key pouch which can be customised according to the owner’s name. It is highly unlikely to reach India’s shores anytime soon. More

  • in

    Hero MotoCorp Price Hike Up To Rs 2,500 – Splendor, Xpulse, Maestro, HF Deluxe

    Hero SplendorPrice revision announced on Hero MotoCorp two wheelers wef April 1, 2021
    At the fag end of FY21, one is left with no choice but to look back on the year that’s gone by. Last year this time, people were just waking up to Covid-19 pandemic. With it came a lockdown. Stringent norms meant for the first time ever, the auto industry collectively sold no vehicles in April 2020. Production and sales were at nought, and movement of people was restricted to only emergencies.
    Since then, a lot has changed. Step by step businesses have inched their way back. And come April 2021, similar to most manufacturers, Hero MotoCorp is revising the ex-sh price of its motorcycles and scooters. Price hike comes in effect on April 1, 2021.
    Price hike of upto 2.5k
    Keeping in mind Hero’s wide product portfolio, price increase across the two-wheeler range will be up to Rs 2500. Exact hike varies depending on model/variant, and specific market. Price of best selling Hero products like Splendor, Passion, Maestro, HF Deluxe, Xpulse, etc – will also be increased.
    Hero MotoCorp attributes the upward revision to partially offset impact of increased commodity costs. The company has accelerated its cost savings program. This is turn ensures minimal impact on the customer.
    Hero Destini and Maestro – 100 Million Edition
    FY22 price revision
    Manufacturers have had to tread carefully in the quarter ending March 2021. Following a largely inactive Q1, it’s only in Q2 FY21 that business were slowly able to bob their head above the surface. The October to December quarter saw much activity considering traditional purchases during the festive season.
    When the previous fiscal came to an end, companies were in a transition phase to BS6 compliant vehicles. The deadline for this was April 1, 2020. And that transition wasn’t the smoothest owing to Covid-19 pandemic related lockdown restrictions.
    Luckily though, there has been an uptick in conversations related to the need of private commuter vehicles keeping in mind safety. Keeping in mind Hero MotoCorp’s ability to make sales of 5 lakh units on any given month look like a cakewalk, it seems its business as usual.
    For 2021, this is the second public price revision announcement from Hero MotoCorp. The first again by design was made as we stepped into 2021. As is customary, new manufacturing year vehicles warrant a price hike at the start of each year. At the time, price revisions were made to the extent of 1,500 bucks depending on model and state of sales. In theory, this means a purchase decision deferred by 3 months can prove to be dearer by 4 grands for a prospective Hero customer. And this will not be the last of it. More

  • in

    2021 Bajaj Pulsar 220F New Colours – Moon White, Matte Black

    2021 Bajaj Pulsar 220F White Colour. Credit – Jet WheelsWith its updated graphics, 2021 Bajaj Pulsar 220F gets sportier and more aggressive
    Bajaj is in the process of updating its bestselling Pulsar range in line with evolving customer needs and market dynamics. The basic idea is to introduce cosmetic enhancements, which will make Pulsar range more attractive to customers. The latest to get these updates is Pulsar 220F, one of the bestsellers in its class.
    As may be recalled, Bajaj had earlier introduced updates in Pulsar 150 and Pulsar 180. These updated motorcycles have started reaching dealerships and official launch is expected soon. It is likely that prices may be increased slightly for 2021 Pulsar models. Prices will be announced by the company at the time of launch.
    2021 Bajaj Pulsar 220F Moon White Colour
    2021 Bajaj Pulsar 220F Matte Black
    If we talk about existing 220F, it is offered in colour options of Black Blue and Black Red. For 2021 Pulsar 220F, Bajaj has introduced new colour options. One of these is Matte Black, which is a combo of black and red.
    While the new colour shades look similar to existing ones, the overall look and feel of the motorcycle has undergone a significant change. That’s because the graphics have been completely revamped and their placement has also been updated.
    2021 Bajaj Pulsar 220F Matte Black. Image – Jet Wheels
    In 2021 Pulsar 220F, the graphics cover a significant portion of the fuel tank. In addition, the contrasting shades of red have been introduced on the headlight cowl as well. The updated graphics can also be seen on engine cowl, front fender, and rear tail section. Colour coded alloy wheel decals are quite the same as earlier.
    2021 Bajaj Pulsar 220F
    2021 Pulsar 220F also gets faux carbon fibre cues on the front fender, side panels, engine cowl and rear tail section. Overall, the updated motorcycle has a blacked-out profile. This is evident in the blacked-out engine, handlebar, alloy wheels, exhaust and heat shield, and suspension.
    2021 Bajaj Pulsar 220F Moon White
    This colour combo gets relatively more chaotic, as there are three contrasting shades vying for attention. Against a white background that’s visible on the fuel tank, fairing and tail section, the motorcycle utilizes red and black graphics. The design and placement of the graphics is the same as that of Matte Black version. The underside is completely blacked out as well.
    [embedded content]
    2021 Bajaj Pulsar 220F will continue to use the same engine as earlier. The 220cc, oil cooled Twin Spark, DTS-i FI engine is capable of generating 20.4 PS of max power and 18.55 Nm of peak torque. It is mated to a 5-speed gearbox. Most other mechanicals such as suspension, brakes, and electricals will be the same as earlier. More

  • in

    New Yezdi Or Jawa Scrambler Test Mule Spied – RE Hunter, CB350RS Rival

    New Yezdi or Jawa Scrambler on testThe crank case design of the engine is remarkable similar to that of the Yezdi RoadKing
    An interesting new camouflaged prototype of a retro-classic scrambler was spotted testing along the Pune to Nashik highway. While the identity of the test mule was concealed, there are some strong clues which point towards it being the upcoming Yezdi motorcycle under Classic Legends. It could also be the Jawa Scrambler that is currently in the works.
    Is it a new Yezdi motorcycle?
    We all know that Classic Legends, a part of Mahindra, is working on reviving BSA and Yezdi brands after bringing back the venerable Jawa nameplate to life. With added support from Mahindra in terms of hiring new personnel both in India and abroad to support the projects, Classic Legends’ medium term plans seem to be afoot at a brisk pace.
    New Yezdi or Jawa Scrambler on test
    When Classic Legends derived the new Jawa Motorcycles from the Mahindra Mojo platform, particular care was taken to replicate the brand’s vintage design traits including the crankcase. In the same fashion, the test mule which was spied recently, although devoid of production spec body panels, does feature a crankcase which is pretty similar to the yesteryear’s Yezdi RoadKing.
    Design
    The prototype is still far away from being production ready but we can see that it is progressing towards a scrambler body style. The cantilevered tailpiece, the tyres, riding posture and the general minimalist approach are expected to be carried forward to the final version as well.
    Engine casing resembles Yezdi
    We also expect the motorcycle to be equipped with modern features like LED taillight, a digital console (at least partially digital) and dual-channel ABS. From what we can see, the motor is a liquid-cooled unit with twin-silencers.
    New Yezdi or Jawa Scrambler on test
    The exhaust canister is still work in progress, but the configuration reminds us of the first iteration of Mojo. The new Yezdi motorcycle’s displacement should be around 300 cc. Power is estimated to be in the same ballpark as the Jawa siblings – around 27 to 30 hp.
    Market positioning
    Yezdi brand still evokes a strong sense of nostalgia among the Indian motorcycle enthusiasts. The new motorcycle will benefit from the lessons Classic Legends learnt from the execution of its Jawa projects. The upcoming motorcycle, from the looks of it, is expected to be positioned as a sportier alternative to the Jawa models. Competition will come from the likes of newly launched Honda CB350RS and the upcoming Royal Enfield Hunter 350.
    Classic Legends is also working on reviving BSA, yet another long forgotten two wheeler brand that has a strong potential in the current times. While Mahindra could not make the Mojo work commercially, it surely has found a way to extract the untapped potential of the platform through Classic Legends’ business model. More

  • in

    Hero Destini 125 Platinum Edition Launch Price Rs 72k – Activa 125 Rival

    2021 Hero Destini 125 Platinum EditionThe special edition Destini 125 gets new matte black colour theme with contrast plastic panels and chrome embellishments
    Hero Motocorp has been on a special edition offensive of late as it crossed an important production milestone of 100 million two wheelers. In addition to an array of special edition models commemorating this milestone, the Indian motorcycle and scooter giant also have been introducing other special editions to keep its product lineup fresh and relevant.
    Hero Destini 125 Platinum Edition
    The Hero Destini 125 Platinum Edition has been launched at INR 72,050 (ex-showroom, Delhi). In comparison, Honda Activa 125 alloy wheel variant is priced from Rs 74,198. The Platinum Edition adopts a snazzy matte black and chrome theme with contrast brown plastic panels and seat cover with Platinum hot stamping.

    Hero Destini 125
    Price Rs, Ex-Delhi

    Drum Brake
    66,960

    Alloys
    70,450

    Platinum Edition
    72,050

    100 Million Edition
    72,250

    In addition to the usual chrome applique on the apron, the special edition scooter also features chrome finished rear view mirrors, muffler protector, fender stripe and handlebar end weights. The black alloy wheels now get sleek white rim tapes.
    Feature highlights of the 125 cc automatic scooter includes LED guide lamps, sheet metal body, 3D premium badging, side stand indicator, digital analog instrument console, and service due reminder. The Platinum edition of the Destini 125 comes after the Pleasure+ Platinum received good response from the customers. The enhancements are purely cosmetic and there is no mechanical change whatsoever.
    2021 Hero Destini 125 Platinum Edition
    Specifications at a glance
    The Hero Destini 125 Platinum edition continues to employ the brand’s 125 cc air-cooled fuel-injected motor that also serves the Maestro 125. The motor is tuned to deliver 9 hp and 10.4 Nm of torque. Gearbox is a conventional CVT unit. The scooter also benefits from Hero’s i3S Idle stop-start system which enhances the fuel efficiency.
    2021 Hero Destini 125 Platinum Edition
    The Hero Destini 125 competes with the likes of Suzuki Access 125 and Yamaha’s entire 125 cc scooter range. Hero’s extensive network presence and a proven powertrain with start-stop technology are its key selling points.
    The Hero Destini 125 is the second best selling scooter in the company’s portfolio after the Pleasure. In February 2021, the product in question clocked a YoY growth of 64% at 12,031 units sold. With the launch of both 100 Millionth and Platinum special editions, the figures are expected to witness a considerable bump in the month of March.
    2021 Hero Destini 125 Platinum Edition
    As far as Hero Motocorp’s overall sales performance is concerned, the company finished last month with a near flat growth compared to February 2020. However, with market showing signs of recovery, things are expected to get better in the coming months.
    The two wheeler industry is taking a sharp turns towards electric mobility and the market is flooded with several startups which are leading the way. It is high time for OEMs to quit the wait-and-watch game and jump in the field if they want to stay competitive in long term. We hope to see Hero Motocorp take a significant step in this direction this year. More

  • in

    Triumph Electric Motorcycle Prototype Project TE-1 Sketches Revealed

    Triumph Electric Motorcycle Prototype – Project TE-1The Triumph TE-1 project’s innovative AC motor produces 180 hp and weights only 10 kg
    Back in May 2019, Triumph Motorcycles announced that it is working on an electric sportsbike project called TE-1 as a part of a joint research project funded by the Office For Zero Emission Vehicles, Government of the UK. Fast forward to the present day, phase 2 of the 4-phase project has reached completion, and the British marque has unveiled the electric powertrain prototype in addition to design sketches of the Triumph TE-1 electric motorcycle.
    Triumph TE-1 – An Overview
    The Triumph TE-1 project is being developed in collaboration with Williams Advanced Engineering, Integral Powertrain Ltd, and WMG of University of Warwick. The project is is a part of Innovate UK program run by the government, has already exceeded the targets set by the UK Automotive Council for 2025.
    Triumph Electric Motorcycle Prototype
    The phase 2 involves developing and testing the critical components of the motorcycle such as the battery, motor and vehicle control units. The end of phase 3 will involve realizing a full functional prototype of the motorcycle which will be used in phase 4 for final validation process.
    Puny Yet Powerful AC Motor
    While detailed specifications of the powertrain are still under wraps, we know that the new innovative AC motor developed by Integral Powertrain’s e-Division weights only 10 kg and produces a staggering 180 hp (130 kW), making it one of the best units in the motorcycle business in terms of power density. The company has worked on integrating the motor and inverter into a single unit so as to improve packaging and reduce mass.
    Triumph Electric Motorcycle Prototype
    Compact Battery Pack
    Williams Advanced Engineering spearheaded the development of the Triumph TE-1 project’s battery module, battery management system and vehicle control unit. The system is heavily optimized for mass, performance, ideal location of center of gravity to enable sharp handling, and ease of recharging. The performance specifications of the battery is still under wraps but Williams says that the unit offers the best-in-class power and energy density, and has been successfully validated on test bench.
    Triumph Electric Motorcycle Prototype
    Advanced Modelling and Simulation
    WMG at the University of Warwick brings its academic might to this joint research and development program. The university team has been working on model-based engineering techniques to aid the whole development process.
    During phase 1 various models simulating the behaviors of motor, battery, control systems, etc., were developed to aid in selection and sizing of right kind of critical systems. The fidelity of the models of each sub-systems were improved during the second phase to aid the partners in optimizing the performance of the high-performance pure electric powertrain. The university also realized a Hardware-in-loop (HIL) test rig to validate the motorcycle’s various control units.
    [embedded content]
    Triumph’s Contribution
    Triumph Motorcycles focuses on developing a new chassis and rear sub-frame to underpin the modern electric motorcycle in addition to coming up with a fitting design. The company also developed the fully digital colour instrument console and software for the vehicle control unit by integrating functional safety measures that is required for the final version to be homologated for road use.
    The styling is an evolution of the brand’s street fighter design with the quintessential two-piece headlamp design. The Triumph TE-1 project is expected to be completed sometime in 2023. More details are expected to be released as the joint research project reaches the end of phase 3. More

  • in

    Ather 450X Electric Scooter Launched In Jaipur – Bangalore Deliveries Restart

    Ather 450X Electric ScooterAther’s new retail outlet in the pink city is being opened in association with Akhand Distributors
    Ather Energy continues with their expansion spree. Following the new experience center in Pune at the end of February, an Ather Space will open in early April in Jaipur.
    Ather Energy Experience Centre will be opened at BL Tower-2 on Tonk Road near Durgapura Flyover in Jaipur. This marks the foray of the electric scooter maker into Rajasthan and Ather 450X and 450 Plus e-scooters will now be available at this new dealership.
    Test rides have already commenced and deliveries are set to be initiated by early April 2021. Ather Energy aims to be present in as many as 40 Indian cities by the end of this year.
    Ather Grid by Month End
    Along with the setting up of the new dealership in Jaipur, Ather Energy will be installing fast charging points across key spots in the city. Targeting 3-4 outlets by the end of this month, Ather Energy hopes to double this count by the end of 2021. With around 120 public fast charging points across Indian cities, the company seeks to partner with hosts including cafes, restaurants, tech parks, malls and gyms for easy accessibility of EV owners.
    Ather Electric Scooter In Jaipur
    In Jaipur, the Ather 450X and 450 Plus retail at Rs. 1,59,524 and Rs. 1,40,514 respectively. The Bengaluru-based electric vehicle manufacturer is also offering a buyback scheme to customers who will be assured of a guaranteed cash back of Rs.85,000 on the Ather 450X on completion of a 3 year period. The e-scooters are also offered on lease at Rs.3,394 per month.
    Ather 450X e-scooter Specs
    Ather Energy currently retails the 450X and 450 Plus e-scooters. The earlier two models, 340 and 450 has been discontinued. The company has noted increased demand for the 450X which is India’s quickest and smartest e-scooter. It is presented in three colour options of Grey, Green and White.
    The 450X gets a 4G SIM and Bluetooth connectivity via which users can access phone calls and music on the 7 inch touchscreen dashboard. The dashboard comes in with colour depth of 16M and a Snapdragon Quad-Core processor. Android Open Source gives access to Google map navigation, on board diagnostics along with Over-the-air updates, Auto Indicator off and Guide-me-home lights.
    Ather Electric Scooter Deliveries Restart In Bangalore
    Ather 450X e-scooter comes in with a 6 kW PMSM motor along with a 2.9 kWh lithium-ion battery pack. It receives four riding modes namely Eco, Ride, Sport and Warp and claims a range of 85kms in Eco Mode. In the warp mode, the scooter can accelerate from 0 to 40 km/h in 3.3 seconds, thus making it the fastest scooter in the 125 cc category. Top speed is at 80 km/h.
    Akhand Distributors Pvt Ltd, are involved in various businesses in retail and wholesale distribution and in retail of Telecom, CE and FMCG and Lifestyle products. Apart from Rajashtan, the company has a presence various other states of Haryana, Madhya Pradesh and Gujarat. More