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    June 2024 Week 1 Auto News Roundup – Tata, Kia, Mercedes, BGauss, MG, Honda, Maruti, Bajaj, Force

    New Tata Altroz RacerNew models and variant updates were among the key happenings in the auto industry in the first week of June 2024One of the biggest events this week was the launch of Tata Altroz Racer. Similar variant updates were introduced by other OEMs as well. Here’s a quick look at some of the recent developments in the auto industry.2024 Tata Altroz / Altroz Racer launchedTata has updated the standard Altroz model with new features. Some new variants have also been introduced. Tata has also launched the Altroz Racer model that gets sporty styling and Nexon’s 120 hp turbo petrol engine. Altroz Racer is available in three variants and three colour options. A comprehensive range of features are available with Altroz Racer.Tata Altroz Racer Vs Rivals – FeaturesKia Carens achieves 1.5 lakh sales milestoneWithin a span of 27 months, Kia Carens has registered cumulative sales of 1.5 lakh units. More than 50% of the sales is from the mid-spec and top-spec variants of Carens. In 2025, Kia will be getting its EV version.Mercedes launches new C 300 AMG LineIn addition to the new C300 AMG, Mercedes has also introduced updated versions of the C200, C220d and GLC. Mercedes-Benz C300 AMG Line is equipped with a 2.0 litre, 4-cylinder, turbo-petrol engine. It works in combination with a 48V mild hybrid system. Output is 258 hp and 400 Nm. Top speed is 200 km/H and 0 to 100 km/H can be achieved in 6 seconds.New Mercedes C 300 AMG LineBGauss unveils RUV350 electric scooterAs part of its portfolio expansion, BGauss has unveiled the RUV350 electric scooter. The global debut is scheduled for 25th June, 2024. BGauss RUV350 is being positioned as the first RUV in India. Some key USPs include a sporty design, hi-tech features and robust performance.BGauss RUV350 Electric Scooter RevealedMG Gloster Desert Storm, Snow Storm launchedMG Motor has added more options for users with the launch of Gloster Desert Storm and Snow Storm. The focus is primarily on enhancing the visual appeal of the Gloster SUV. MG Gloster Desert Storm and Snow Storm models have been launched at a starting price of Rs 41.04 lakh.Honda CNG option for City, Amaze and ElevateIn a surprising move, Honda dealers are offering CNG option for City, Amaze and Elevate. Honda does not manufacture factory-fitted CNG cars. But users can choose the CNG option at the dealer level. The CNG kit costs Rs 78,000 and comes with a one-year warranty.Jeep Meridian X LaunchedJeep Meridian X Special Edition re-launchedBased on market demand, Jeep has relaunched the Meridian X Special Edition. Users will benefit from a range of visual updates and new features. The Jeep Meridian X Special Edition is being offered at a starting price of Rs 34.27 lakh.Maruti launches Dream Series – Most affordable cars in IndiaTo boost sales, Maruti has launched its Dream Series Limited Edition collection. It includes the Alto K10, S-Presso and Celerio. All three cars are available at Rs 4.99 lakh, as part of the offer scheme. The prices will be valid throughout June.Maruti Dream Series LaunchChetak new Base variant launchedBajaj has launched the most affordable variant of Chetak at Rs 96,000. It will take on rivals such as Ola S1 Air and Ather 450S. The new model is named Chetak 2901. It is available in 5 colour options. ARAI certified range is 123 km.Force Gurkha 4×2 incomingForce Motors has homologated the 4×2 version of its Gurkha SUV. 4×2 Gurkha will take on the Mahindra Thar RWD variant. The 4×2 option will be available with only the 3-door Gurkha. Based on market feedback, even the 5-door Gurkha could get 4×2 option at a later stage.XUV700 base MX variant to get automatic optionMahindra will soon introduce an automatic option with the base MX variant of XUV700. It will be available with the 5-seater, petrol variants only. As of now, rivals like MG Hector and Tata Harrier do not have automatic options with the respective base variants. More

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    Upcoming KTM ADV Motorcycle With AMT Gearbox Teased Off-roading

    Upcoming KTM ADV Motorcycle With AMT GearboxThe upcoming KTM ADV motorcycle with AMT gearbox gets a foot-operated gear selector and shifters on handlebar, but it lacks a clutch leverJust recently, BMW Motorrad patented ASA (Automated Shift Assistant) on R 1300 GS ADV motorcycle. Now, KTM is at it too, teasing motorcycling fraternity with a teaser of its upcoming ADV motorcycle equipped with an AMT gearbox. Also, the prototype teased could very well be the upcoming KTM 1390 Super Adventure.Upcoming KTM ADV Motorcycle With AMT Gearbox TeasedJust like automatic transmission is getting more and more popular on cars, there is an increasing number of motorcycle manufacturers that are exploring this substratum too. Honda Africa Twin DCT and Goldwing DCT are among the first motorcycles that pop up in our mind when speaking of an automatic gearbox equipped motorcycle.Upcoming KTM ADV Motorcycle With AMT GearboxRecently, BMW Motorrad made a lot of headlines by patenting an AMT gearbox option that they are calling ASA. Now, we get to see KTM’s take on an automatic gearbox, which is dubbed AMT (Automated Manual Transmission). Company is teasing their upcoming AMT gearbox on an ADV prototype.This prototype participated in Redbull’s Erzberg Rodeo in Eisenerz, Austria, ridden by French enduro rider, Johnny Aubert. We can see in the video how the bike handles a proper enduro track and showcases its off-road prowess. The prototype in question participated in Iron Road Prologue category, where only twin-cylinder motorcycles are allowed.Upcoming KTM ADV Motorcycle With AMT GearboxSo, this prototype is likely to be based on the company’s new 1390 platform and could be the upcoming 1390 Adventure or 1390 Super Adventure. The camouflage on this prototype clearly says KTM, AMT and Prototype, summing up exactly what it is.How does it operate?The prototype demonstrated in Austria, showed a traditional gear lever along with handlebar-mounted shifters, paddles or triggers. However, there is no clutch lever on the handlebar where you would usually find one. So, this is a clutchless operation and allows rider to either shift from the foot or shift from the handlebar.KTM ADV Without ClutchTraditional (not with motorcycles, though) auto mode also exists and one might ride this motorcycle without worrying about shifting or clutch and the bike would take care of everything. Even when starting or stopping the motorcycle. Something that will command a slight learning curve for existing riders.The trend of automatic transmission on motorcycles seems to be primarily centred towards ADVs or large baggers. Predominantly ADVs. These big adventure machines with automatic transmission options aim to provide added comfort on continental rides and take the hassle of gearshifts and allow riders to fully focus on off-road terrains.KTM ADV Bike With AMT GearboxIn India, KTM is busy testing their upcoming 390 platform motorcycles. There are two – one is 390 Adventure and the other is 390 Enduro. Apart from that, KTM is also developing the new RC 390 that is also likely to launch in India. More

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    TVS iQube Recalled To Inspect Chassis Bridge Tube

    TVS iQubeTVS iQube is one of the best selling electric scooter on sale in India – With about 3 lakh units sold till dateThe TVS iQube has firmly established itself as one of India’s most popular and widely accepted electric scooters, especially among families. With nearly 300,000 units sold to date, the iQube has become a household name in the Indian electric vehicle market. To maintain its leading position, TVS has been diligent in refreshing the iQube lineup, consistently incorporating more features, options, and extending the range to meet the evolving needs of its customers.TVS iQube Recalled – What’s the fuss about?Recently, the iQube gained significant attention on social media due to a viral video that brought to light a potential flaw in the scooter’s chassis. The video, which has garnered almost 32 million (3.2 crore) views, shows a concerning issue that prompted TVS to take swift action in the form of a recall.The issue came to public attention when Mohit Badaya shared a video on social media, revealing that iQube scooter’s chassis had been damaged even though the scooter had not been involved in any accident or crash. The video quickly went viral, sparking a wave of responses from other iQube owners who reported experiencing similar issues with their vehicles. The widespread attention and the nature of the complaints highlighted a significant concern that needed to be addressed promptly to ensure customer safety and satisfaction.Official recall initiatedIn response to these concerns, TVS Motor has issued a voluntary recall for its popular iQube electric scooters. The recall affects iQube electric scooters manufactured between July 10, 2023, and September 9, 2023. TVS will conduct thorough inspections on these scooters to verify the integrity of the chassis bridge tube, ensuring that the ride and handling remain up to specifications over extended usage.TVS has not disclosed the exact number of scooters affected by this recall. However, industry speculations suggest that the recall could involve around 45,000 units, based on the production volumes between July 10, 2023, and September 9, 2023.TVS dealerships will be contacting affected iQube owners individually to initiate the recall process. Each affected scooter will undergo a comprehensive inspection to check for chassis damage and potential weaknesses. Any necessary repairs or replacements will be carried out free of charge to the customers. This proactive measure aims to maintain the high safety and performance standards that TVS iQube is known for.This recall underscores TVS’s commitment to customer safety and its proactive approach in addressing potential issues. By swiftly responding to the concerns raised by users, TVS not only aims to rectify the problem but also to reinforce the trust that customers have in the brand. As electric vehicles become increasingly popular, ensuring the highest standards of safety and reliability remains paramount for manufacturers. More

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    2024 Bajaj Chetak New Variant Launch Price Rs 96k – 123 Kms Range, 5 Colours

    2024 Bajaj Chetak New VariantNew entry-level model of Bajaj Chetak will compete with other budget-friendly electric scooters like the Ola S1 Air and Ather 450SWith its rugged full metal body and reliable performance, Bajaj Chetak has emerged as one of the popular electric scooters in the country. In FY2024, Chetak was ranked at fourth place in the list of bestselling electric two-wheelers. Its market share was at 11.31%.New Chetak base variant to boost salesBajaj has launched a new affordable version of Chetak, called Chetak 2901. It is priced at Rs 95,998, ex-sh Bangalore. 5 colour options are on offer – Red, White, Black, Lime Yellow and Azure Blue. It will be available in over 500 showrooms across India. It delivers 123 kilometres (ARAI-certified) range.2024 Bajaj Chetak New VariantMr. Eric Vas, President, President, Urbanite, Bajaj Auto Ltd., shared, “We are pleased to announce the start of shipments of Chetak 2901 to Chetak dealerships. The Chetak 2901 is designed, specced and priced to attract customers who are currently purchasing a petrol scooter to a proper full size metal body electric scooter that can match and exceed a petrol scooter, without denting their wallet.The Chetak 2901 can be had for an on-road price close to that of a petrol scooter and comes with more than 123 kms of ARAI certified range. Retails to consumers shall start from 15 June onwards. We believe Chetak 2901 shall dramatically expand the electric scooter market.”2024 Bajaj Chetak New VariantChetak 2901 offers a range of features designed to enhance rider comfort and convenience, including a Coloured Digital Console, Alloy Wheels, and Bluetooth Connectivity. For those seeking additional upgrades, the TecPac package is available. The TecPac provides advanced features such as Hill Hold, Reverse, Sport and Economy modes, Call and Music Control, Follow Me Home lights, and enhanced Bluetooth App connectivity.3 Chetak Variants On OfferThis new Chetak 2901 variant joins the existing 2 Bajaj Chetak variants – Chetak Urbane and Chetak Premium. These are equipped with 2.9 kWh and 3.2 kWh battery packs while range is 113 km and 126 km, respectively. Both scooters have a top speed of 73 kmph. Chetak Urbane variant is available at a starting price of Rs 1.23 lakh. Chetak Premium starts at Rs 1.47 lakh.Bajaj’s strategy to launch an affordable version of Chetak is in line with emerging trends in the industry. Many electric two-wheeler brands such as Ola Electric and Ather have introduced affordable variants for consumers. One of the objectives is to reduce the adverse impact coming from reduction in government subsidies. It is to note that many states have completely stopped subsidies for EVs, as the allocated funds have been exhausted.Affordable EVs will make it easier for consumers to make the switch from ICE to electric. If ICE age were to end, the new breed of affordable electric two-wheelers would play a crucial role. Chetak Premium, Chetak Urbane, and Chetak 2901 have received approval for the Electric Mobility Promotion Scheme (EMPS) subsidy from the Ministry of Heavy Industries (MHI). Bajaj Auto Ltd. is part of the Government of India’s Production-Linked Incentive (PLI) Scheme for Electric Vehicles. More

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    Bajaj Brazil Plant Starts Production – 2025 Pulsar NS160, Pulsar NS200 Launched

    2025 Pulsar NS200 (Dominar 200)When compared to Indian models, both Dominar 160 (Pulsar NS160) and Dominar 200 (Pulsar NS200) miss out the new fascia and fully digital instrumentationThe Pune-based 2W and 3W manufacturing stalwart, Bajaj Auto, has been very active in both the Indian market and in international markets. Late last month, Bajaj’s international ambitions gains more prominence as the company’s Manaus plant in Brazil commenced production. At the same time, 2025 Puslar NS160 and Pulsar NS200 were launched in Brazil with subtle updates.Bajaj Brazil Plant Production CommencedIn the Indian market, Bajaj’s manufacturing presence is spread across a wide variety of vehicle types ranging from ICE and electric 2W vehicles, ICE and electric 3W vehicles along with commercial 4W vehicles (Qute). Nameplates like Pulsar and Chetak hold some of the most brand recall and cult following.2025 Pulsar NS160 (Dominar 160)Most of Bajaj’s international business operated with a manufacturing setup in India. Soon, Bajaj commenced operations in Colombia plant so that they could better cater to more than 75 countries. Bajaj is expanding its manufacturing operations and has eyed Brazil for a long time. Almost a year ago, Bajaj Auto announced its Manaus manufacturing facility in Brazil.This facility will be set up under its wholly-owned subsidiary, Bajaj Do Brazil. Where location is concerned, Bajaj has chosen Manaus as its new production base, which is a special economic zone in Northern Brazil. Currently, Bajaj only sell Dominar 400, Dominar 200 (Pulsar NS200) and Dominar 160 (Pulsar NS160) in Brazil.2025 Pulsar NS160 (Dominar 160)All of these vehicles will now be manufactured in Brazil instead of assembling them in association with Dafra in the capital city of Amazonas state in Brazil. Plant capacity is touted to be 20,000 units per annum with scope for expansion. The company is highly likely to manufacture alliance vehicles from KTM, Husqvarna and Triumph as well.This way, marketing and logistics in both Americas and Europe are more cost-effective and establish better relevancy. The new Manaus plant in Brazil is said to reach full capacity by the end of this month and manufactured units will reach dealerships soon.2025 Pulsar NS160 (Dominar 160)2025 Pulsar NS200 and Pulsar NS160Along with commencing production of its first overseas manufacturing facility, Bajaj has also launched 2025 Pulsar NS200 and Pulsar NS160 in Brazil. However, these are called Dominar 200 and Dominar 160 over there.The main update has to be the inclusion of dual-channel ABS with both Dominar 160 and Dominar 200. Also, smaller Dominar now gets the same set of fat tyres from Dominar 200. Which are 100/80-17 at the front and 130/70-17 at the rear. Other than that, there are new colours on offer with wheels and USD front forks painted in Grey.2025 Pulsar NS160 (Dominar 160) InstrumentationPowertrains remain the same and Dominar 160 continues to get a 17 bhp 160cc engine and Dominar 200 continues to get a 24.5 bhp 199cc engine as before. Apart from the changes mentioned above, cycle parts and other components remain the same. Notably, Brazilian models miss out on the new fascia and fully digital instrument cluster we get in India.Also read – Bajaj trademarked Fighter name Source More

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    Royal Enfield Trademarks Two New Logos – For Upcoming 650cc Bikes?

    Royal Enfield Trademarks Two New LogosThe new pictorial logo trademarked by Royal Enfield is already offered with a few colourways of Classic 350 and Interceptor 650If we take India’s classic or retro styled motorcycle market, it is completely tilted towards one brand, Royal Enfield. The company has a lot of vehicles in the making and the next launch is Guerrilla 450. Now, Royal Enfield has patented two new logos and one of them could go on a future motorcycle.Two new Royal Enfield Trademarks – What are they for?With a slew of 350cc, 450cc and 650cc motorcycles, Royal Enfield has positioned itself as the country’s de facto classic bike manufacturer. The company has went strength to strength and has successfully garnered an unprecedented cult following and impeccable brand loyalty among customers.Royal Enfield New LogoMost of this following is because of the nostalgia Royal Enfield invokes. To further dwell on this nostalgia, Royal Enfield has trademarked two new logos in India for future use. One of them is the one Royal Enfield has been using since the post World War II era. This logo has company’s current word logo and a crown on top of it, housed in a winged background.In recent times, Royal Enfield has used this same logo on some of their bikes including Classic 350 and Interceptor 650. To be more specific, Canyon Red, Cali Green and Mark II colourways of Interceptor 650 along with Chrome Bronze and Chrome Red colourways on Classic 350 get this exact logo.Royal Enfield New Logo DetailEven though the logo is not really new and has been used on existing motorcycles, Royal Enfield has trademarked it recently. As seen in the image below, trademark application is dated 5th of June 2024, which is yesterday. Said trademark status reads ‘Formalities Chk Pass’.Royal Enfield is currently working on a multitude of vehicles and this logo can make it to one of them. Most probably, it will go on upcoming Classic 650 and Classic 350 Bobber along with Scram 650, considering the same logo is seen on Classic 350 and Interceptor 650.Royal Enfield New LogoCompany’s new word logo (font)There was another logo that Royal Enfield has trademarked alongside the aforementioned logo. Comparatively, this is an all-new logo and is more of a wordmark in a stylised font. It reads ‘Royal Enfield’ with an underline beneath it. This logo is less likely to make it on a motorcycle’s fuel tank.Royal Enfield New Logo DetailRoyal Enfield sells a lot of merchandise and printables. We can see this logo on a T-shirt or luggage or some other clothing and baggage. For fans and followers to showcase their brand affiliation. More details regarding these new logos will be revealed in the future.Also read – Royal Enfield Guerrilla 450 logo trademarked More

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    2024 Honda BeAT Scooter Range Launched Starting IDR 18.43 Million (Rs 94.5K)

    2024 Honda BeAT Scooter RangeConsidering OEMs like Aprilia, Yamaha and Hero (upcoming) are offering scooters with 14-inch wheels, we hope Honda offers one tooIndonesia is among the biggest scooter markets in Asian continent. Many legacy manufacturers and other OEMs have been operational here. Honda is among major players in Indonesia. To further consolidate its position in the market, Honda has just launched MY24 BeAT and BeAT Street with subtle updates to design and features.2024 Honda BeAT Scooter Range – What are the updates?In Indonesia, Honda’s BeAT has been one of the popular scooter offerings with good reception from the buyers. Capitalising on it further, the company has just launched 2024 Honda BeAT with a multitude of exterior revisions and feature updates to keep the product fresh.Where exterior design changes are concerned, Honda has implemented a new design language with body panels radiating a sharper look. Overall design now looks less edgy and a lot less busier than it did before. There are new headlights and tail lights design. New BeAT gets LED headlights too.Standard 2024 Honda BeAT gets taller 14-inch alloy wheels as standard fitment. There is a new instrument cluster too, with a digital LCD screen in the middle. All variants gets battery charge state indicator and alarms, while CBS variant onwards get 12W USB charger, parking brake lock feature and side stand engine kill switch.2024 Honda BeAT StandardHigher-spec Honda BeAT Deluxe variant gets an engine idling start/stop system along with and a silent starter/generator system. Notably, Honda BeAT Deluxe is the only variant to get company’s new Smart Key.Changes with Honda BeAT StreetApart from the standard BeAT, Honda has also launched the 2024 BeAT Street. Where design is concerned, not a lot is different between the two. For starters, we can see a unique design with the Street where it gets an exposed handlebar and misses out on a cowl in this area that standard BeAT gets.Other than that, there are unique colourways and graphics with BeAT Street. When we bring scooter’s stance into the picture, there are stark differences between BeAT and BeAT Street as the latter comes equipped with smaller 12-inch alloy wheels with fatter tyres, as opposed to 14-inch alloys on the former.2024 Honda BeAT StreetOther than that, both scooters share almost all of their features and attributes. Powertrain-wise, both scooters come equipped with the same 110cc engine that generates 8.85 bhp of peak power and 9.2 Nm of peak torque. Claimed fuel efficiency is around 60.6 km/l. Both BeAT and BeAT Street start from IDR 18.43 million OTR (94.5K) and we hope Honda considers offering a 14-inch wheel-equipped scooter in the Indian 110cc scooter segment.2024 Honda BeAT Engine More

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    Royal Enfield Himalayan 450 Engine Mount Snaps – Here Is What Happened

    Himalayan 450 Engine Mount SnapsChassis snapping or breakdown is a known issue with older Royal Enfield Himalayan 411 and has happened on multiple instancesRoyal Enfield New Himalayan 450 has earned quite a reputation for being a rugged off-road machine that can take anything India has to throw at it. It boasts robust construction along with a reputation of being indestructible (relatively). However, new images from the internet have made quite a splash, showing a few potential chinks in Royal Enfield Himalayan 450’s armour.Himalayan 450 engine mount snaps on two bikesA recent event from Tinsukia, Assam state, sparked a debate on social media platforms and other forums regarding structural integrity and soundness of Royal Enfield’s newest ADV. We can see in the images that the bike’s left chassis part has been damaged and it appears like a clean shear of the bike’s tubular trellis frame.Himalayan 450 Engine Mount Snaps – 1st IncidentDamage looks like it occurred close to bike’s left-side engine mount and subframe mount. However, engine is still in place as the right-side engine mount could have been intact. Radiator hose pipe looks like it came right off and there was quite some coolant spillage on the road. Considering this was a one-off instance, it seemed like there was user error or some external factors involved. Soon, another Royal Enfield Himalayan 450 (Tamil Nadu registered) encountered a very similar situation.Himalayan 450 Engine Mount Snaps – 2nd IncidentOnly this time, damage was more severe, that both side engine mounts have been damaged and the engine ‘fell’ right off its frame. In Royal Enfield Himalayan 450, engine is a stressed member and is an integral part of its chassis. It is held bolted onto the main frame at multiple locations.Himalayan 450 Engine Mount Snaps – 2nd IncidentRoyal Enfield Explains What HappenedAll of the top mounts holding this engine seem to have been damaged and the engine just ‘fell’ off the bike’s mainframe. Looking at the motorcycle, it doesn’t look like it was in a crash. So what went wrong? Rushlane reached out to Royal Enfield, and as per their initial analysis by their tech team, the 2nd incident is similar to the 1st one.Himalayan 450 Chassis and Engine MountSpeaking about the 1st incident, Royal Enfield says that it happened because owner had installed aftermarket crash guard which was not approved by RE. It is likely that the engine mount was damaged because of aftermarket accessory, which resulted in the incident. Royal Enfield have fixed the Himalayan 450 from Assam and the said customer is happy with the result. 2nd incident also happened because of the same reason, says Royal Enfield.Owing to its off-roading appeal and go-anywhere capability, buyers looking at a Royal Enfield Himalayan 450 will expect a certain degree of over-engineering to achieve a durable product that doesn’t break down with minor incidents. There have been multiple instances where Himalayan 411 has had chassis damage and the company must have logically worked on it when developing the new Himalayan 450.Notably, Royal Enfield provided Rushlane with a long-term Himalayan 450 review sample and it was ridden on trails, hill climbs and other off-road scenarios and we didn’t face a similar issue on our unit. More