More stories

  • in

    Top 10 Scooters Dec 2023 – Activa, Jupiter, Access, Ola, Chetak, iQube, Pleasure

    TVS iQube electric scooterBajaj Chetak recorded the highest YoY growth of 277.70% in December 2023, whereas MoM sales improved by 53.54%Scooter sales in India in December 2023 saw the same names in the top 10 list with some changes in performance. Honda Activa topped the list, leading in scooter sales by a huge margin and the only scooter to cross sales above the 1 lakh mark.Top 10 selling scooters of India contributed a total sales of 3,89,267 units, witnessing a significant year-on-year (YoY) growth of 45.1 percent. This was over 2,68,158 units sold in December 2022 relating to a 1,21,109 unit volume growth. MoM sales however, fell by 16.52 percent from 4,66,291 units sold in November 2023.Top 10 Scooters Dec 2023 – Honda Activa LeadsOnce again it was the Honda Activa scooter that topped the sales charts and that too by a significant margin. Activa sales stood at 1,44,335 units in December 2023, up 49.65 percent from 96,451 units sold in December 2022. This was a YoY growth of 47,884 units with the Activa commanding a37.88 percent share on this list. However, its performance on a MoM basis was not as good as sales slipped 26.38 percent from 1,96,055 units sold in November 2023.TVS Jupiter was next in terms of sales with 59,538 units sold in December 2023 relating to a 49.41 percent YoY growth from 39,849 units sold in December 2022. This was a 19,689 unit volume growth. MoM sales fell by 18.28 percent over 72,859 units sold in November 2023. There were also increased sales noted for the Suzuki Access scooter, sales of which improved by 78.30 percent to 52,898 units in December 2023 from 30,228 units sold in December 2022 while MoM sales also grew by 2.64 percent from 52,512 units sold in November 2023.Top 10 Scooters Dec 2023Sales growth on a YoY basis was also reported for the Hero Pleasure (24,862 units) and TVS Norq (18,851 units), though Ntorq sales dipped 37.98 percent MoM from 30,396 units sold in November 2023. Sales of Honda Dio increased to 23,089 units in the past month, up 12 percent from 20,615 units sold in December 2022. MoM sales fell by 3.7 percent over 23,979 units sold in November 2023.3 Electric Scooters In Top 10Talking about sales in the electric scooter segment, it was the Ola S1 that has seen a huge growth of 74.21 percent YoY and 1.52 percent MoM to 30,263 units. This was retail sales. There had been 17,372 units and 29,808 units sold in December 2022 and November 2023 respectively.Improved demand for the Bajaj Chetak saw sales up 277.70 percent YoY to 13,008 units in December 2023 from just 3,444 units sold in December 2022. It was also a MoM growth of 53.54 percent over 8,472 units sold in November 2023. Bajaj Chetak received an update with a better design and improved ergonomics along with the addition of a new 5-inch colour TFT screen.The list of top 10 scooters also included the TVS iQube with 11,232 units sold last month and the Hero Destini of which 10,191 units were sold in December 2023, both showing off a YoY growth but a MoM decline in sales. More

  • in

    Hero Xtreme 125 Leaks Ahead Of Debut At Hero World 2024 – New Details

    New Hero Xtreme 125RHero World 2024: Hero MotoCorp To Unveil Exciting New Motorcycles and Scooters On 23rd Jan 2024Hero MotoCorp is set to take the stage at Hero World 2024 on January 23, unveiling an impressive lineup of motorcycles that promise to redefine the biking landscape. Among the highlights is the global reveal of their first-ever motorcycle developed in collaboration with Harley Davidson, aptly named the Hero Mavrick.Hero Mavrick: A Game-Changing CollaborationHero Mavrick has been generating significant buzz on social media, with teaser images and spy shots circulating in anticipation of its grand debut. Built on the foundation of the X440, the Mavrick promises to combine the best of Hero MotoCorp and Harley Davidson, embodying a blend of style, power, and innovation.Hero Mavrick DesignHowever, the Mavrick is not the only star of the show. Hero MotoCorp will also be introducing the Hero Xtreme 125R, a new 125cc motorcycle poised to compete with rivals like the TVS Raider. Leaked details suggest it will share the engine with the Glamour 125, offering a potent combination of performance and efficiency.Hero Xtreme 125R Specifications:Engine: 124.7cc, air-cooledPower: 11.5 hp at 8,250 rpmTorque: 10.5 at 6,250 rpmGearbox: 5-speedBrake: Front – Disc (CBS) 240mm, Disc (ABS) 276mm; Rear – Drum 130mmSuspension: Telescopic and Mono shockTyre: Front – 90/90 – 17; Rear – 120/80 – 17New Hero Xtreme 125R spiedThe Xtreme 125R boasts a sleek design, sharp LED headlights, and a youthful appeal, making it an exciting addition to Hero MotoCorp’s portfolio. Expected to be priced around Rs 95,000, it will be available in two variants – single-channel ABS and CBS.New 250cc-300cc Engine and Zero Electric MotorcyclesAdding to the excitement, Hero MotoCorp will unveil a new engine in the 250cc-300cc segment at Hero World 2024. This engine will feature a liquid-cooled design, promising a thrilling riding experience for enthusiasts. In a groundbreaking move, Hero MotoCorp has acquired US-based Zero Electric Motorcycles. At Hero World 2024, attendees will witness the official unveiling of these electric bikes under the Hero branding, marking a significant step towards sustainable mobility.Hero Xoom 125: The Future of ScootersCompleting the lineup is the Hero Xoom 125 scooter, powered by a 124.6cc engine generating 9.5hp and 10.14Nm of torque. Equipped with a CVT gearbox, 14-inch wheels, and a digital cluster with connectivity features, the Xoom 125 promises a futuristic and efficient urban commuting experience.[embedded content]Hero World 2024 is poised to be a milestone event for Hero MotoCorp, showcasing their commitment to innovation, collaboration, and a diverse range of offerings. Stay tuned for live updates and exclusive insights as the biking world eagerly awaits the grand unveiling on January 23.Source More

  • in

    Royal Enfield Sales Breakup Dec 2023 – Classic, Hunter, Meteor, Himalayan, 650 Twins

    New Royal Enfield Himalayan 450Royal Enfield Himalayan sales have improved – Thanks to the launch of new versionRoyal Enfield total sales (domestic + exports) stood at 63,387 units in December 2023. This was a YoY de-growth over 68,400 units sold in December 2022. The company suffered a setback both in terms of YoY domestic sales and exports while exports improved on a MoM basis. Sales in domestic markets stood at 57,291 units in December 2023. This was a 4.23 percent YoY decline over 59,821 units sold in December 2022, relating to a 2,530 unit volume difference. MoM sales also fell by 23.75 percent from 75,137 units sold in November 2023 with a massive 17,846 unit volume de-growth.Royal Enfield Domestic Sales December 2023Once again it was the 350cc bikes that saw most sales in domestic markets with the Classic 350 commanding the list with 21,234 units sold in the past month. This was a 2.67 percent YoY growth from 20,682 units sold in December 2022 to capture a 37.06 percent share. MoM sales however, dipped by 29.84 percent from 30,264 units sold in November 2023 when share had stood at 40.28 percent.Royal Enfield sales breakup Dec 2023Bullet 350 also posted a YoY growth of 3.36 percent but a MoM decline of 27.75 percent to 12,607 units. There had been 12,197 units and 17,450 units sold in December 2022 and November 2023 respectively. RE Hunter 350 (11,705 units) and Meteor 350 (6,071 units) each posted both YoY and MoM decline in sales. However, RE Himalayan saw outstanding demand with a 50.91 percent YoY growth to 3,406 units in December 2023 from 2,257 units sold in December 2022. MoM sales also increased by 87.76 percent from 1,814 units sold in November 2023.In the larger category, it was also the 650 Twins that commanded higher sales, up by 44.32 percent YoY to 1,625 units in December 2023 from 1,126 units sold in December 2022. MoM sales however, fell by 23.06 percent over 2,112 units sold in November 2023. RE Super Meteor sales stood at 643 units in the past month, down 49.37 percent over 1,270 units sold in November 2022.Royal Enfield exports breakup Dec 2023RE 650 Twins atop Export List in December 2023With total exports of 6,096 units in December 2023, the company has seen a 28.94 percent YoY de-growth over 8,579 units sold in December 2022. MoM exports grew by 19.20 percent from 5,114 units shipped in November 2023. Highest global demand was seen for the 650 Twins with 1,597 units shipped in the past month, a growth of 368.33 percent YoY over just 341 units sold in December 2022. Share currently stands at 26.20 percent, up from 8.92 percent held in November 2023. MoM exports also grew by 250.22 percent from 456 units shipped in November 2023 relating to a 1,141 unit volume growth.At No. 2 on the export list was Classic 350 which has seen a YoY de-growth of 45.40 percent down to 1,448 units in December 2023 as against 2,652 units exported in December 2022. MoM sales however saw an improvement of 8.14 percent from 1,339 units shipped in November 2023. Both the RE Meteor 350 (1,260 units) and Hunter 350 (656 units) saw a YoY and MoM de-growth in exports. Super Meteor (564 units) and Bullet (420 units) have shown off a 320.90 percent and 76.47 percent MoM growth respectively.Exports also fell significantly for the RE Himalayan down to just 151 units in December 2023 from 1,531 units shipped in December 2022 relating to a 90.14 percent de-growth while on a MoM basis, exports slipped by 20.53 percent from 190 units exported in November 2023. Royal Enfield’s new Shotgun 650 has entered production and comes in at a launch price of Rs 3.59 lakh. In the pipeline are a fleet of bikes in the 650cc segment slated for launch in 2024/25, among which are the Classic 650, Bullet 650 and Himalayan 650. More

  • in

    2024 Bajaj Pulsar N150, N160 Teased Again – New Digital Console Features

    2024 Bajaj Pulsar N150, N160 Teased AgainBajaj Auto Set to Rev Up the Riding Experience with Upcoming Pulsar N150 and N160 UpdatesBajaj Auto is gearing up to unveil refreshed versions of its popular Pulsar N150 and N160 models in 2024. With a significant contribution of over 50% to Bajaj Auto’s total two-wheeler sales, the Pulsar range holds a pivotal position in the market, making it a key focus for updates and enhancements.Latest Teaser Confirms New FeaturesThe latest teaser shared on social media by Bajaj Auto reveals exciting details about the upcoming Pulsar N150 and N160. Alongside eye-catching new colours and stylish graphics, the motorcycles will feature a host of functional updates aimed at enhancing the overall riding experience. One standout addition is the new digital instrument console with Bluetooth connectivity, bringing modern technology to the forefront of the rider’s experience.Bajaj Pulsar N150 and N160 new teaser pic.twitter.com/4usV00iWJm— RushLane (@rushlane) January 20, 2024The teaser showcases the digital speedometer console’s reflection on the rider’s helmet, hinting at the inclusion of Bluetooth-enabled features such as message and call notifications. This move aligns with the evolving market dynamics and consumer preferences, offering riders greater connectivity options while on the road.The Pulsar range has consistently evolved to meet the demands of performance-oriented bike enthusiasts, and the 150cc to 200cc motorcycle segment has witnessed substantial growth. As of last month, Bajaj led this space with a 28.37% market share, reflecting the brand’s strong presence in the segment.2024 Bajaj Pulsar N150 / N160 launch teaserFor the Pulsar N150, potential updates include the addition of rear disc brakes, providing users with enhanced confidence in the bike’s braking capabilities. Another anticipated addition is the option for a split seat, catering to riders who seek a sportier seating arrangement. The current model features a single-piece saddle, and the split-seat design, already present in the Pulsar N160, could be extended to the N150.Performance-oriented UpdatesOn the other hand, the Pulsar N160 might see the introduction of USD (Upside Down) front forks, an upgrade from the current telescopic front forks. Both models are likely to receive new color options and graphics, further enhancing their visual appeal. The inclusion of Bluetooth-based connectivity features, coupled with a new digital instrument cluster, will bring a tech-savvy edge to the riding experience for both N150 and N160 riders.While the engine options are expected to remain unchanged, with the N150 powered by a 149.68 cc engine and the N160 featuring a 164.82 cc engine, there is speculation about potential tweaks to deliver enhanced performance. Other hardware elements such as wheels and tires are expected to retain their specifications, though colour treatments could be introduced to complement the new variants.As these updates promise to elevate the riding experience for enthusiasts, the anticipation grows for the official launch of the refreshed Pulsar N150 and N160 models. The market is eagerly awaiting the unveiling of these bikes, and depending on the extent of the updates, pricing adjustments may accompany the launch. The current starting prices for the Pulsar N150 and N160 are Rs 1.18 lakh and Rs 1.30 lakh, respectively. Stay tuned for more details as Bajaj Auto continues to innovate and cater to the ever-evolving preferences of motorcycle enthusiasts. More

  • in

    Hero Splendor Electric Spied In Pune By ARAI – Testing By GoGo A1

    Hero Splendor Electric Spied in PuneAs opposed to current electric conversion kit on sale, Hero Splendor electric spied in Pune could feature GoGoA1’s newly developed kitElectric mobility is catching on in India at a faster pace than anticipated. That is because India is world’s largest 2W market and EV adoption rate can take new directions. GoGoA1 is among the players operating in 2W EV realm, but their approach to electric mobility involves electrifying existing ICE vehicles, rather than pushing new EVs.Hero Splendor Electric Spied In Pune By ARAIThe talk about GoGoA1 arises because there is an electric Hero Splendor on testing, spotted in Pune. This Hero Splendor prototype motorcycle dons red temporary number plates and gets camouflaging all around its body including its engine bay.Hero Splendor Electric Spied TestingOr what used to be an engine bay, because it is a prototype vehicle running on electric power. Looking at the motorcycle, it is a Hero Splendor and even has seat cover that reads Splendor. Rear grab rail design suggests that this particular motorcycle might be an older unit.Also, the overall condition of this motorcycle suggests that it could be an older bike. Because it was spotted testing in Pune with prototype electric powertrain, we would wager that this Hero Splendor electric spied, could be demonstrating range tests conducted by ARAI and other concerned authority.Hero Splendor Electric Motorcycle Kit – GoGoA1Said prototype is highly likely to be developed by GoGoA1 as it is the leading company to develop electric conversion kits. That said, there is a possibility of this being the work of a new player that is set to reveal themselves in the coming months.Is this a new electric conversion kit from GoGoA1?If we take a look at GoGoA1’s product lineup, we can see pre-engineered and ready to retrofit electric conversion kits for almost every Hero MotoCorp and Honda 2W vehicles along with electric conversion kits for 4W vehicles including battery and two hub motors.So, GoGoA1 already made an electric conversion kit dedicated to all Splendor motorcycles. However, there may be a new kit under testing that incorporates a slightly bigger battery for better range from a single charge. Previous homologation documents did not specify battery capacity. The company has type-approved new kit as well, as seen in the images below.Hero Electric Bike from GoGoA1We can see a new hub motor that is white in colour. It will probably be painted black with production-spec kit for a stealthier approach. Currently GoGoA1’s electric conversion kit for Splendor packs a rear hub motor with 3.94 kW (5.28 bhp) peak power and 2 kW (2.7 bhp) continuous power.Maybe there is a new kit in development with a more powerful motor than current kit on sale. As of now, GoGoA1 is selling its ARAI-approved and patented motorcycle conversion kit for Rs. 29,000, excluding the donor motorcycle. Will there be an increase in pricing too? Only time will tell.The company’s new and approved electric conversion kit caters to as many as 45 different vehicles as listed in the new homologation documents. Just like before, majority of these are from Hero MotoCorp and a few others include Honda vehicles.GoGoA1 kit for Hero bikesSource More

  • in

    Ather Rizta Electric Scooter Teased – Launch Soon, Deliveries In 6 Months

    Ather Rizta Electric Scooter TeasedAther Energy has announced the name of their new scooter – Ather Rizta will be a family focused electric scooterIn an exciting development, Ather Energy, the pioneering Indian electric vehicle manufacturer, has officially teased its upcoming electric scooter, aptly named “Ather Rizta.” The announcement came from none other than the company’s CEO, Tarun Mehta, who shared the news on social media, generating a buzz among electric vehicle enthusiasts.Ather Rizta is the name and not DieselAddressing the anticipation surrounding the new release, Mehta playfully referenced the company’s previous model, stating, “Well, we had our fun with ‘Diesel.’ But we are definitely not naming our first family scooter Diesel (sorry, Fast and Furious fans).” This statement suggests a departure from the engineering-focused nomenclature of their previous models to a more consumer-oriented approach.Ather Rizta Electric Scooter nameMehta highlighted that the Ather Rizta marks a significant shift in focus, catering specifically to families. Unlike their previous sporty and youthful models like the 450 Series, the Rizta is expected to be bigger, more practical, and family-oriented. Mehta emphasized that Indian buyers are seeking a different kind of experience from Ather Energy, and the Rizta aims to meet those demands.The CEO provided insights into the scooter’s development, stating that the teams at Ather have been diligently working on the Rizta since 2019. The scooter boasts some groundbreaking integrations that are industry-first, promising to elevate the ride experience for users. Mehta assured that despite the new family-oriented direction, the Ather Rizta will maintain the quality and reliability that the brand is renowned for.Well, we had our fun with ‘Diesel’.But we are definitely not naming our first family scooter Diesel (sorry, Fast and Furious fans)Unlike our usual names which have been more of an engineering nomenclature, we are taking a different route this time.Introducing ‘Ather Rizta’… pic.twitter.com/OHyRMwLoht— Tarun Mehta (@tarunsmehta) January 19, 2024Launch Details and ACDC 24 UnveilingAther Energy has set the stage for the grand unveiling of the Ather Rizta at ACDC 24 – Ather Community Day Celebration 2024. Mehta encouraged enthusiasts to stay tuned for more information, promising that details about the highly anticipated family scooter would be revealed soon.Image for reference onlyAdditionally, the company has taken steps to protect the identity of its latest creation by trademarking the name “RIZTA” in India, hinting at the significance and uniqueness of this new addition to their electric scooter lineup.2024: A Milestone Year for Ather EnergyAs Ather Energy prepares to launch the Ather Rizta, it aligns with recent sightings of test mules in Bengaluru, Karnataka, indicating that the scooter is already undergoing real-world testing. The CEO’s confirmation that the scooter will pack ample size, comfort, storage, and more suggests a well-rounded offering that aims to address the diverse needs of family riders.The Ather Rizta is poised to make its mark in the electric scooter market, adding a family-focused dimension to Ather Energy’s innovative lineup. With the promise of industry-first features and a commitment to quality, the Ather Rizta is set to capture the attention of electric vehicle enthusiasts and families alike. Stay tuned for further updates as Ather Energy gears up for an electrifying 2024. More

  • in

    Ola Launched Move OS 4 After Beta Testing – New Features Detailed

    Ola Move OS 4 Care ModeWith Move OS 4, Ola Electric has introduced and improved features and functionalities to better rival offerings from Ather, TVS, Simple and othersIndia’s leading electric 2W manufacturer, Ola Electric, has launched Move OS 4 in India. The new OS is set to bring generational updates to current features and user interface. Along with that, Ola has introduced new features as well. Combined, Ola S1 range is now the most feature-rich electric scooter in India.Ola Launched Move OS 4 After Beta TestingThe beta testing of Move OS 4 software has been underway since last quarter of 2023. Ola Electric had selected 50,000 Ola customers for beta testing and the cumulative data collected, shaped final stable release of Move OS 4 for general consensus. Move OS 4 update is now live for S1 Pro, S1 Air and S1 X and their respective sub variants.Depending on the model – S1 Pro, S1 Air and S1 X, Move OS 4 unlocks new possibilities for customers. As per Ola Electric, Move OS 4 has introduced 100+ features for their scooters. If this gets overwhelming, Move OS 4 brings a new UI that puts most frequently used features accessible from the main home screen.This adds convenience and safety as it negates scrolling around UI to find stuff. The new update brings something that Ola had been working from a long time, Ola Maps. Dedicated navigation from Ola Maps, ‘Find My Scooter’, ‘Share Location From App’, favourite locations and other features are noteworthy. There’s now a Dark Mode too in themes too.Ola Launched Move OS 4 – New DashboardBiometric unlock was a long time waiting too, which uses Apple’s FaceID or fingerprint sensor of Android phones to unlock Ola scooter. Passcode recovery mode brings idiot-proofing too and works via cloud and Bluetooth. There’s a Garage Mode to control other (compatible) scooters from Ola app. Concert Mode connects to other Ola scooters and sync music and lighting across all connected scooters.Care Mode shows a dedicated page with readouts of carbon emissions, fuel cost savings and an equivalent number of trees planted (hypothetical). Ride journal now combines multiple attributes for a detailed trip readout.Improved AIAI is making its way in almost every single thing. Ola Electric is riding on the AI wave as well. Improved AI now has a clever automatic Indicator Control feature that learns user behavior and preferences. Ola Move OS 4 also brings AI-powered tamper alert and fall alert along with hill descent control.Ola S1 Pro Gen 2Hill hold feature has been improved too. Cruise control is now offered with Eco Mode too, which was not the case before. There’s still no word of ADAS features though, which were teased before. Improved geo fencing adds to overall functionality and ease of use by pre-defining geographical boundaries. There is now a time fencing option too, that allows users to give their scooter to others for a pre-determined time. More

  • in

    Honda NX500 Launched In India – Best Multi-Cylinder ADV For Rs. 5,90,000?

    Honda NX500 LaunchedThe direct rivals of Honda NX500 launched, are Benelli 502 and 502X along with Kawasaki Versys 650 and to some extent Triumph Tiger Sport 660ADV segment is currently on the rise with more additions than before. However, within 300cc to 500cc segment, there are little to no multi-cylinder ADVs for sale. Honda is fixing that by launching NX500 in India, sold exclusively through their premium BigWing dealerships. Honda NX500 launched, costs Rs. 5.9 lakh (ex-sh). There are three colours – Grand Prix Red, Matte Gunpowder Black Metallic and Pearl Horizon White.Honda NX500 Launched In IndiaIt has to be noted that NX500 is CB500X’s replacement, considering brand positioning and pricing. At the end of its life-cycle, CB500X was priced at Rs. 5.8 lakh (ex-sh), down from its initial pricing of Rs. 6.87 lakh (ex-sh). We have to also note the fact that CB500X was a locally assembled CKD model and was initially priced close to Rs. 7 lakh (ex-sh).In contrast, Honda is importing NX500 as a CBU model, which costs less than CB500X CKD model, despite packing significantly more premium features and hardware. This is interesting to see, which shows that Honda is rethinking its pricing strategies for Indian market. The Rs. 5.9 lakh (ex-sh) pricing for NX500 is reasonably justified, being an import and packing all the extra features over CB500X.For the money, Honda is offering a crossover vehicle. The design theme for Honda NX500 launched, is called “Daily Crossover”, where the bike doesn’t look out of place, whether it is in the city, winding road, highway or gravel trail. A do-it-all proposition, if we may. The bike gets a compact adventure styling to have an imposing, yet nimble silhouette.Honda NX500 ConnectivityAll-LED headlights, tail lights and turn indicators look premium and perfectly accentuate bike’s overall styling. The fairing has a dual-tone effect with black elements to cut down on visual bulk. There is a non-offensive rear subframe with a single-piece seat. Seating posture is upright and there is a decently tall windscreen too.Specs and performanceHonda is even offering a 5-inch TFT display with Bluetooth connectivity along with IOS and Android compatibility. Switchgear is extensive with buttons to control instrument cluster. Honda RoadSync enables navigation, call and music controls from a connected phone. There is an emergency stop signal too.Componentry includes 19-inch front and 17-inch rear aluminium wheels wrapped with 110-section front and 160-section rear tyres, Showa 41mm SFF-BP USD telescopic front forks, Pro-Link mono-shock rear suspension, dual 296mm front disc and single 240mm rear disc, dual channel ABS and has a 17.5L fuel tank. All this is mounted on a steel diamond frame.Honda NX500 FasciaHonda NX500 launched, gets a 471cc parallel twin-cylinder engine with DOHC setup and liquid cooling that generates 47 bhp at 8,600 RPM and 43 Nm torque at 6,500 RPM. This engine is mated to a 6-speed gearbox and gets a slip and assist clutch along with traction control. The Rs. 5.9 lakh (ex-sh) is introductory and can change at Honda’s discretion. More