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    May 2024 Week 2 Auto News Roundup – Maruti, Ford, Tata, MG Motor, Kia, Yamaha, Royal Enfield, Bajaj

    Swift Racing Roadster EditionMost significant development in second week of May 2024 is the new Maruti Swift, launched at a starting price of Rs 6.50 lakhApart from new Swift, the past week also provided glimpses of various upcoming products. Updated 2024 versions of existing models were also launched. Here’s a quick look at some of the recent developments in the auto industry.New Maruti SwiftNew Maruti Swift launched4th-gen Maruti Swift has a sportier profile and gets premium features. It has a wireless charger, a 9-inch touchscreen, rear AC vent and cruise control. Safety has been enhanced with ESC (electronic stability program) and hill hold assist. All variants get 6 airbags as standard. There’s a new engine as well, offering best-in-class mileage of 25.72 km/L.2025 Ford EcoSport Render by Motor1Ford EcoSport Europe relaunchOne of the popular SUVs across multiple global markets, Ford EcoSport is expected to be relaunched in Europe. It will be available at a competitive price point and target the mass market. Launch is expected in 2025. New-gen Ford EcoSport will primarily rival the new Dacia Duster across European markets.2024 Tata Altroz Racer EditionAltroz Racer features revealedTo challenge Hyundai i20 N Line, Tata Motors is working on the performance-oriented Altroz Racer. It will be the new flagship variant of Altroz, powered by the 120 PS turbo petrol motor borrowed from Nexon. Altroz Racer will have multiple segment-first features such as ventilated leatherette seats, a 360° camera setup and a voice-activated electric sunroof.New Tata Nexon Diesel Base variants launchedNexon affordable petrol, diesel variants launchedFacing a decline in sales in April and recent launch of XUV 3XO, Nexon gets new base petrol and diesel variants. The new Smart (O) petrol variant is priced at Rs 7.99 lakh. Nexon new base-spec diesel variant Smart+ starts at Rs 9.99 lakh.MG Celebrates Centenary Year With 100-Year EditionsMG centenary edition models launchedAs part of its centenary year celebrations, MG Motor has introduced new, 100-year Edition models of its popular cars. It includes Hector, Astor, Comet and ZS EV. The new 100-year Limited Edition models focus primarily on cosmetic enhancements across exteriors and interiors.Kia Krystal Digitized After SalesKia brings transparency with live streaming of car servicingIn a move that will provide complete peace of mind to customers, Kia has started live streaming of the servicing process. Named Kia Krystal, this new feature can be accessed via video consulting. Customers can also use ‘My Kia’ app to see all updates of the servicing process. Kia Krystal is available for all Kia car owners.Royal Enfield Classic 350 Bobber Patent Image LeakedRoyal Enfield Classic Bobber 350 patent reveals new detailsOne of the upcoming new Royal Enfield bikes is the Classic 350 Bobber. Some of the key highlights include a new handlebar, white-walled tyres and a split-seat setup. Most other features are expected to be the same as the existing Classic 350. The Bobber version will rival the likes of Jawa Perak and Jawa 42.Kia Syros Name TrademarkedKia Trademarks Syros nameAs part of its plans to introduce new models, Kia has trademarked the Syros name. It is possible that Kia Syros could be the ICE version of Kia Clavis. The Clavis name was registered in 2023. While Clavis will challenge Punch EV, Kia Syros could be targeted at Punch ICE model.2024 Yamaha FZS FI V42024 Yamaha FZS FI V4 launchedYamaha has introduced the 2024 Yamaha FZS FI at a starting price of Rs 1.30 lakh. Two new colour options are on offer – Ice Fluo-Vermillion and Cyber Green. These exciting new colours are in line with the aspirations of the young generation. Most other features are the same as earlier.Top 10 Cars April 2024 vs April 2024 – YoY ComparisonPunch is top selling car in April 2024Tata Punch has topped the list of best-selling cars in April 2024. It has registered an impressive 84.32% growth, with a market share of 12.43%. Maruti WagonR is second, followed by Brezza, Dzire, Hyundai Creta, Mahindra Scorpio / N, Maruti Fronx, Baleno, Ertiga and Maruti Eeco.MG Cloud EVMG Cloud EV spotted in IndiaAs part of its portfolio expansion plans, MG Motor has plans to launch multiple new products in the coming years. In the electric segment, MG is working on the Cloud EV. It is expected to be offered in two variants, with a range of 360 km and 460 km. MG Cloud EV could be launched later this year at a starting price of around Rs 15 lakh.Bajaj CNG Bike Blueprint LeakedBajaj CNG Blueprint leaks – New details revealedTo reduce operational costs for users, Bajaj is working on its pioneering CNG bikes. Ahead of their launch, some interesting details have been revealed via leaked blueprints. Bajaj CNG bikes are expected to offer an impressive mileage of around 90 to 100 km/kg. The first Bajaj CNG bike will be launched on 18th June 2024.Tata Nexon CNG DebutsNexon CNG incomingTata Motors is working to launch the CNG model of its popular Nexon SUV. This will be the first time in India that CNG option will be provided with a turbo petrol engine. With the CNG variant, Nexon can target a larger segment of users. It is expected to be available at a starting price of around Rs 9.15 lakh. More

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    Top 5 Changes In Royal Enfield Guerrilla 450 Over Himalayan 450

    Royal Enfield Scram 450 (Guerrilla 450) RenderThe neo-retro Roadster appeal of Royal Enfield Guerrilla 450 puts it against rivals like Speed 400, X440, Mavrick 440, CB300R and othersSticking to its four launches per year strategy, Royal Enfield is cooking a bunch of new motorcycles for India to launch in 2024. The recently trademarked Guerrilla 450 is likely to launch soon and is among the most anticipated launches in Indian motorcycling industry. It is a stripped-down version of New Himalayan (a.k.a. Himalayan 450). Let’s take a look at the top 5 changes in Royal Enfield Guerrilla 450 over Himalayan 450.1. Design & AestheticsWhile Himalayan 450 aims to look like an ADV, Guerrilla 450 is shooting for a Roadster look. Himalayan’s front beak, split seats and tall windshield are gone and so is the unappealing clamp that was holding the Tripper Dash. Guerrilla 450 will directly target the recently launched Harley-Davidson X440, its Hero counterpart Mavrick 440 and others like Yezdi Roadster, and Triumph Speed 400.2024 Royal Enfield Guerrilla 450 Logo Trademarked2. FunctionalityHimalayan 450 was equipped with a lot of exposed frames, mounts and a sturdy rear luggage rack for saddle bags, side panniers, top box and jerry cans. All these are missing on Guerrilla 450. That said, there will be accessories sold separately to achieve these functionalities. With Guerrilla 450, the priority is ease of use on daily commutes, rather than going on an expedition.3. Cycle PartsTransitioning from an ADV to a Roadster, Guerrilla 450 has embraced RSU telescopic front forks, 17-inch alloy wheels with road-biased tubeless tyres and less suspension travel. Steering geometry has been revised for Roadster genre and the headlight is now conventionally mounted on the triple tree and moves with the handlebar.2024 Royal Enfield Guerrilla 4504. Ride & ErgonomicsRoyal Enfield Guerrilla 450 will pack a revised rider’s triangle that is geared towards sportiness for short power-packed commutes and the occasional highway use. Rider’s footpegs are slightly rear-set and the handlebars command a slight lean. The ride is likely to be slightly less robust and corner-carving a lot more natural when compared to Himalayan 450. Guerrilla 450 should weight a lot less in comparison to Himalayan 450 as well.5. PricingWe expect Royal Enfield Guerrilla 450 to cost less than Himalayan 450. For context, Himalayan 450 costs between an eye-watering Rs. 2.85 lakh to 2.98 lakh (ex-sh) and in Karnataka (where I’m from), the on-road price goes very close to Rs. 4 lakh. If we take a look at rivals, Bajaj is offering a similar calibre motorcycle for Rs. 1.85 lakh (ex-sh). Factoring in the fancier gizmos Guerrilla 450 is bringing to the table, can we expect it to cost Rs. 2.3 lakh (ex-sh)? Only time will tell.Royal Enfield 450cc bike is likely to be Guerrilla 450Apart from the changes, Guerrilla 450 and Himalayan 450 will have a lot in common too. For starters, both get the same chassis, new Sherpa 450 engine, new Tripper Dash, fancy tail lights, full LED headlights and more. With the Guerrilla 450, Royal Enfield has an opportunity to work on all the issues that were reported with Himalayan 450 and we can expect a more polished product.Also read – Royal Enfield New Himalayan long-term review.  More

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    2024 Royal Enfield Guerrilla 450 Logo Leaks Ahead Of Launch

    2024 Royal Enfield Guerrilla 450 Logo LeaksWith a minimalistic profile and basic equipment list, Royal Enfield Guerrilla 450 will be affordably priced at around Rs 2.40 lakhRoyal Enfield will be launching multiple new products in the current financial year. One of these will be the Guerilla 450 neo-retro roadster. Launch is expected during the second quarter of FY 24-25.Royal Enfield Guerrilla 450 – What to expect?Test mules of Royal Enfield Guerrilla 450 have been spotted in India and overseas locations as well. The bike will be based on the new 450cc platform that underpins the new Himalayan 450. Ahead of launch, Guerrilla 450 logo has now leaked online.2024 Royal Enfield Guerrilla 450 Logo LeaksThough based on new Himalayan 450, Guerrilla 450 won’t be getting as many premium features as the Himalayan 450. For example, Guerrilla 450 will be getting standard telescopic forks at front and not the USD forks seen with Himalayan 450. Similarly, the Tripper TFT display offered with the Himalayan 450 could be replaced with a semi-digital instrument console. It could be the same unit, as used with the Super Meteor 650.True to its roadster profile, Guerrilla 450 will be getting 17-inch alloy wheels at both ends. In comparison, the Himalayan is equipped with 21-inch and 18-inch wire spoke wheels at front and rear, respectively.2024 Royal Enfield Guerrilla 450As seen with test mules, Guerrilla 450 has a minimalistic profile. The retro bits include the circular headlamp and rear-view mirrors. The bike has a classic teardrop shaped fuel tank and a single piece saddle. At rear, the tail lamp and turn signals are seamlessly integrated into a single unit. This feature is similar to that of the new Himalayan.2024 Royal Enfield Guerrilla 450Royal Enfield Guerrilla 450 – Ride comfortGuerrilla 450 has an upright, comfortable riding stance. It seems suitable for city commutes as well as longer journeys across highways. Although the bike won’t be getting USD forks, the telescopic forks and the rear monoshock unit should be able to provide optimal comfort to the rider. In its stock form, Guerrilla 450 will be primarily targeted at solo riders. The rear seat section seems narrow and may not be comfortable for the pillion over longer durations.2024 Royal Enfield Guerrilla 450Royal Enfield Guerrilla 450 – Performance, specsPowering Royal Enfield Guerrilla 450 will be the 452cc, liquid cooled, single cylinder engine that delivers 40 PS and 40 Nm. It is mated to a 6-speed gearbox and equipped with a slip and assist clutch. The engine has electronic fuel injection and a ride by wire system. The bike will be using a steel, twin spar tubular frame. Braking setup will comprise 320 mm and 270 mm disc brakes at front and rear, respectively. Dual-channel ABS will be offered as standard. Royal Enfield Guerrilla 450 will have an all-LED lighting setup.Upon launch, Guerrilla 450 will take on rivals such as Triumph Speed 400, Husqvarna Svartpilen 401 and Honda CB300R. It will be one of the most affordable options in its class. Along with the domestic market, Guerrilla 450 will also be aggressively pushed across international markets. The new Himalayan 450 is already gaining popularity across multiple export markets. Something similar could be achievable with the Guerrilla 450 neo-retro roadster. More

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    Ola ADV And Roadster Motorcycles, Rickshaw, Cargo Vehicles Patented

    Ola Motorcycles & RickshawThere is no timeline mentioned for Ola 3W vehicles, but Ola electric motorcycles are supposed to break cover by 2024 endAfter dominating Indian electric scooter space, Ola Electric is poised to expand its presence in new type of electric vehicles. In that regard, we have been promised cars, motorcycles, rickshaws and 3W cargo vehicles from Ola Electric. Ola car might be further ahead in the future, but Ola motorcycles and 3W vehicles seem to be arriving first as hinted by design patents.Ola ADV And Roadster MotorcyclesIf you remember Ola motorcycle unveiling event, only the Roadster concept was functional and we predicted that it could be the one to launch first. That seems to be true and M1 Cyber Racer (production name of Ola Roadster) has been patented by Ola Electric in three different variants. All three variants bear design distinctions to establish a visual distinction.Ola M1 Cyber Racer Base VariantM1 Cyber Racer looks like it is being developed into three distinct variants. The base variant gets slightly uninspiring wheels, probably cast alloys in a monotone finish. This variant gets a hub motor at the back, a very basic box-section swingarm and twin shock absorbers. Then comes the top trim with fancier dual-tone alloy wheels, mono-shock rear suspension, front and rear disc brakes, a mid-mounted motor, fancy swingarm and sophisticated fairing.This top trim gets two variants – single-seat and twin-seat variants, with slight design differences. Single-seat variant gets rear footpegs for some reason too. All three M1 Cyber Racer variants get RSU telescopic front forks and a flat-tracker-like headlight assembly. If you want premium components, you have to step up to Ola M1 Adventure which is also patented.Ola Cyber Racer Top VariantOla Cyber Racer Top VariantM1 Adventure electric ADV patentedWith M1 Adventure, Ola is venturing into electric off-road motorcycle niche. It gets premium componentry like USD telescopic front forks, twin discs at the front and single disc at the rear, wire-spoke wheels, knuckle guards, edgy styling, fancy swingarm and more. Where design is concerned, it gets twin vertically stacked headlights and a large windscreen reminding us of upcoming KTM 390 Adventure.Ola M1 AdventureApart from these motorcycles, Ola showcased M1 Cruiser which looked the best among the four. Also, Diamond Head futuristic concept that looked way ahead into the future. There was another patent of right-side switchgear that is likely to go into all these motorcycles to control the 5-inch instrument cluster which Ola showed with all its motorcycles.Ola Motorcycle SwitchgearVenturing into 3W spaceOla Electric has patented two 3W electric vehicles as well. Both these vehicles are essentially different variations of the same base vehicle. This is the first time Ola is venturing into electric 3W CV space and is likely to implement aggressive pricing strategies to quickly garner a lot of interest and push volumes.Ola Electric Rickshaw CVOla Electric Cargo CVThe electric rickshaw version seems to have a shorter wheelbase, a fixed hard top and a weather-proofed body. The electric cargo version gets a flat bed which is shorter in height. Buyers can modify this load bed for a taller body with the help of third-party fabricators. Ola ADV and Roadster motorcycles are supposed to break covers by the end of 2024. It would be interesting to see when 3W vehicles will debut. More

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    Royal Enfield Classic Bobber 350 Patent Image Leaked – Reveals New Details

    Royal Enfield Classic 350 Bobber Patent Image LeakedWhen launched, upcoming Royal Enfield Classic 350 Bobber will rival real Bobber motorcycles like Jawa Perak and 42 BobberIndia’s leading classic motorcycle manufacturer, Royal Enfield, is adding yet another offering to its belt. We’re talking about Classic 350 Bobber which has been spied in India on multiple occasions. Now, the design patents of Classic 350 Bobber have been leaked on the internet, revealing interesting details.Royal Enfield Classic Bobber 350 Patent Image LeakedMany OEMs aim to recreate the Royal Enfield magic in the 300cc to 500cc segment. Royal Enfield has managed to reach 75K units per month mark which is a huge achievement in price-sensitive Indian market. Company’s 350cc portfolio has done most of the heavy lifting here.Royal Enfield Classic 350 Bobber Patent Image LeakedCurrently, there are as many as four 350cc Royal Enfield motorcycles on sale in India – Classic 350, Bullet 350, Hunter 350 and Meteor 350. The upcoming entrant into Royal Enfield’s 350cc portfolio is Classic 350 Bobber. There is a probability of this motorcycle taking the name Goan Classic 350 when launched too.As seen in the patent image, there are quite a few elements that distinguish it from Classic 350 it is based on. That said, the new Bobber is not exactly successful in masking its roots either. It looks like a slight variation of Classic 350, just like Bullet 350. The effect is more profound with the upcoming Classic 350 Bobber.Royal Enfield Bobber 350 Twin SeatAs seen in the spy shots we posted before, Classic 350 Bobber gets a split-seat setup that looks like a workaround for the pillion. This pillion seat looks like it is small and uncomfortable and could be offered as an option. We have seen single-seat Classic 350 Bobber on testing too and that could be standard.The most notable design distinction over Classic 350 is the new handlebar. This is a typical bobber-style ape-hanger handlebar and should allow for a relaxed riding triangle. White walled tyres is another attribute that is a visual distinguishing factor for Classic 350 Bobber. Other than that, it looks almost identical to Classic 350.Royal Enfield Classic 350 Bobber vs Classic 350 Single seatIs the wheelbase increased?Componentry seems to be identical too. For starters, we can see the same headlights, front RSU telescopic forks, round ORVMs, same double cradle frame, identical side body panels, rear twin shock absorbers, front and rear fenders, wire-spoke wheels, disc brakes with dual channel ABS and more.The engine is going to be the same J-Series 349cc single-cylinder air-cooled SOHC 2V engine that is capable of generating 20.2 bhp of peak power and 27 Nm of peak torque. When launched, Royal Enfield Classic 350 Bobber is highly likely to be a Bobber-style motorcycle and not a real Bobber. We say this because spy shots reveal an almost identical wheelbase to Classic 350. More

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    2024 Yamaha FZS FI V4 Launch Price Rs 1.3 L – New Colours

    2024 Yamaha FZS FI V4Yamaha Introduces Eye-Catching Colours for FZ-S Fi Version 4.0 DLX to Appeal to Young RidersIndia Yamaha Motor (IYM) Pvt. Ltd. has launched new colours for its acclaimed streetfighter model, the FZS-S FI Version 4.0 DLX, in line with its brand campaign, ‘The Call of the Blue’. With the introduction of the vibrant Ice Fluo-Vermillion and lively Cyber Green colour schemes, Yamaha aims to entice the discerning tastes of the youth market segment.2024 Yamaha FZS FI New Colours – PricesPriced attractively at INR 1,29,700/- (Ex-Showroom, New Delhi), these fresh colour options are meticulously designed to resonate with the evolving preferences of customers, particularly the youth demographic. The inclusion of these dynamic hues expands the FZ-S Fi Version 4.0 DLX lineup to six distinct colour choices, offering a wide range of options for customers to express their individuality. The existing palette includes the striking Majesty Red, Yamaha’s classic Racing Blue, and the timeless Matte Black & Metallic Grey.2024 Yamaha FZS FI V4Mr. Eishin Chihana, Chairman, Yamaha Motor India Group of Companies said, “We at Yamaha recognize that young riders of today are not just looking for transportation but are seeking a complete lifestyle. They are aspirational and are equipped with insights of global trends and style. Their tastes and preferences are diverse, and they seek differentiated experiences that are unique and sets them apart. In India as well as globally, we have witnessed that the youth is closely following new colour trends and are associating their personalities with it.This continuous shift is powering us to innovate, and we stay committed to meeting these expectations of our young customers. Today’s introduction of the fascinating colour options in the FZS-FI DLX portfolio is an example of our commitment to the Indian market to keep our brand and offerings always relevant to our customers. We shall continue our pursuit to consistently reform and refresh our products to captivate the imaginations of youngsters and enhance consumer delight.”2024 Yamaha FZS FI V4SpecsThe new Yamaha FZS-FI V4 comes equipped with an air-cooled, 4-stroke, SOHC, 2-valve engine with a displacement of 149cc. It boasts a compression ratio of 9.6:1 and delivers a maximum horsepower of 9.1 kW (12.4PS) at 17,250 r/min, along with a maximum torque of 13.3 N.m (1.4kgf.m) at 15,500r/min. The bike features an electric starter system and is E20 compatible.2024 Yamaha FZS FI V4In terms of dimensions, it measures 2,000 mm in overall length (FZ-S FI V4.0 & V4.0 DLX) and 1,990 mm (FZ-S FI V3.0 & FZ FI), 780 mm in overall width, and 1,080 mm in overall height, with a seat height of 790 mm and a wheelbase of 1,330 mm. The minimum ground clearance stands at 165 mm, and the kerb weight varies between 134 kg for FZ-S FI V3.0 / FZ FI and 135 kg for FZ-S FI V4.0 & V4.0 DLX.The bike features front telescopic fork suspension and rear 7-step adjustable monocross suspension, paired with 100/80-17M/C 52P-Tubeless tires at the front and 140/60R17M/C 63P-Radial Tubeless tires at the rear. It is equipped with a single-channel ABS, with disc brakes measuring 282 mm at the front and 220 mm at the rear.2024 Yamaha FZS FI V4The fuel tank capacity is 13 liters, and the fuel supply system is fuel injection. The transmission type is constant mesh, 5-speed, and the bike features a digital clock, speedometer, and ECO indicator. Additionally, it comes with Yamaha Motorcycle Connect, traction control system, and a side stand engine cut-off switch for enhanced safety and convenience. More

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    2W Retail Sales April 2024 – Hero, Honda, TVS, Bajaj, RE, Yamaha, Ola, Ather

    Ola Electric ScooterNew model launches and improved market sentiments boosted two wheeler retail sales by 33.21% YoY and 7.43% MoM growth in April 2024Two wheeler (2W) retail sales moved up by 33.21% to 16,43,510 units in the past month as compared to 12,33,763 units sold in April 2023, reveals FADA. New two wheeler launches supported growth while higher demand was seen across the 125cc segment. Positive market sentiments, stable fuel prices and estimates of favourable monsoons also contributed to an affirmative effect.2W Retail Sales April 2024 – Hero, Honda LeadWhile Hero and Honda commanded this segment with a combined market share of 53%, every OEM on this list has shown off increased sales with the exception of Ather and Piaggio. Hero MotoCorp has reported a 19.5% YoY growth in retail sales to 5,11,599 units in April 2024 to command a 31.13% market share.Two Wheeler Retail Sales April 2024Honda also experienced double digit growth as retail sales stood at 3,94,147 units last month, a 38% growth from 2,44,732 units sold in April 2023. At No. 3 was TVS Motor with 2,80,204 units of motorcycles, scooters and electric scooters sold last month to command a 17.05% market share.Bajaj Auto sales also showed a YoY growth to 1,95,842 units in April 2024, a near 50,000 unit growth over 1,46,538 units sold in April 2024. Suzuki (77,898 units) and Royal Enfield (72,056 units) each posted significant YoY growth while India Yamaha Motors has seen sales up to 55,956 units last month from 38,189 units sold in April 2024.Two Wheeler Retail Sales April 2024 vs April 2023 – YoY ComparisonElectric Two Wheeler Retail Sales April 2024New Electric Mobility Promotion Scheme (EMPS) 2024 came into effect from April 2024 after FAME II ended in March 2024. This has had an impact on sales in the past month. Even as Ola Electric reports outstanding YoY growth in retail sales to 33,963 units, sales of Ather Energy dipped substantially. Ather sales fell to 4,062 units last month from 7,802 units sold in April 2023.Piaggio also reported a YoY decline in retail sales to 2,855 units while Classic Legends Jawa / Yezdi brand (2,778 units) and Greaves Ampere (2,511 units) saw sales improve considerably. There were others in this list that also included electric two wheelers which saw retail sales dip to 9,639 units in the past month from 24,744 units sold in April 2023.Two Wheeler Retail Sales April 2024 vs March 2024 – MoM ComparisonMonth on Month ComparisonTotal two-wheeler retail sales soared to 16,43,510 units, marking a significant 7.43% increase over March 2024 figures. Hero MotoCorp was up by a substantial 13.32% from the previous month. Following closely behind, Honda Motorcycle & Scooter India and TVS Motor Company also reported impressive gains in April. Honda witnessed a 10.93% increase in sales, with 3,94,147 units sold, while TVS recorded sales of 2,80,204 units, marking an 11.05% growth.Bajaj Auto and Royal Enfield maintained their momentum in April, albeit with slightly more moderate growth rates. Bajaj reported retail sales of 1,95,842 units, marking an 8.13% increase, while Royal Enfield saw a healthy 11.82% rise with 72,056 units sold.Challenges for Electric Two-WheelersWhile most traditional manufacturers witnessed positive growth, electric two-wheeler manufacturers faced challenges in April. Ola Electric and Ather Energy reported significant declines in sales, with Ola experiencing a sharp 36.30% drop and Ather recording a staggering 76.43% decrease compared to March 2024. More

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    Bajaj Dominar Facelift Launch Confirmed – To Get Comprehensive Updates

    Dominar spy shot. File photo.New Dominar 250 and Dominar 400 will focus on a fresh new look, upgraded safety and enhanced cruising capabilitiesTo infuse new life into the Dominar range, Bajaj is planning some major updates. Although sales haven’t met desired targets, the Dominar range still holds significant potential. With a new skin and updated equipment, Dominar 250 and Dominar 400 can emerge as a more viable option in comparison to rival offerings.Updates planned for Dominar 400 faceliftExecutive Director of Bajaj Auto, Rakesh Sharma, has confirmed that the company is working on plans to update the Dominar bikes. The inputs were provided during the launch event of the biggest Pulsar NS400Z. It is expected that Dominar 400 will be getting smartphone connectivity and a new TFT instrument console. Turn-by-turn navigation could also be introduced with the updated Dominar 400.Other features that could be added include a basic cruise control system and traction control. New Bajaj Dominar Facelift can get ABS modes, multiple riding modes and ride-by-wire throttle. These features will significantly enhance overall ride dynamics and the bike’s cruising capabilities.The existing model offers features such as full LED with auto headlamp on, USD forks, dual-channel ABS and a split reverse LCD display. A comprehensive range of factory-fitted touring accessories are available with Dominar bikes.Existing Bajaj Dominar. Image – Shahrukh AkhtarFeatures that will be carried forward include the 43 mm USD forks with 135 mm travel and the Nitrox monoshock suspension at rear with 110 mm of travel. Braking setup is likely to remain unchanged with the 320 mm and 230 mm disc brakes at front and rear, respectively.Dominar 400 has 17-inch wheels at both ends, shod with 110/70 front and 150/60 rear tubeless tyres. The 373.3 cc, single cylinder, liquid cooled engine will be carried forward. It delivers 40 PS and 35 Nm and is mated to a 6-speed gearbox. Assist and slipper clutch is offered as standard.Updates planned for Dominar 250As compared to Dominar 400, the updates will be relatively fewer for Dominar 250. It could include an updated LCD instrument cluster with support for turn-by-turn navigation. The 248.77 cc engine will be carried forward. It generates 27 PS and 23.5 Nm and is mated to a 6-speed gearbox. Dominar 250 has 37 mm USD forks with 135 mm travel and Nitrox monoshock suspension with 110 mm of travel. Braking setup comprises 300 mm and 230 mm discs at front and rear, respectively.Facelifted Dominar bikes will be getting some new colour options, along with refreshed graphics. With the updated equipment, Dominar 250 can witness a price hike in the range of Rs 3,000 to Rs 5,000. The existing model is available at a starting price of Rs 1.85 lakh. In comparison, updated Dominar 400 is expected to become costlier by Rs 10,000 to Rs 15,000. It is currently offered at Rs 2.31 lakh.Updated Dominar 250 and Dominar 400 are expected to be launched in 2025. A shorter launch timeline is unlikely as Bajaj’s next big move will be its pioneering CNG bikes. Bajaj is also working to introduce an affordable variant of Chetak electric scooter. More