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    How Hyundai Ioniq 5 Offers More Value Than Cars Twice Its Price

    Hyundai Ioniq 5 VersatilyWith a host of features and creature comforts for both 1st and 2nd row occupants, Hyundai Ioniq 5 offers a lot more than for the price
    India’s luxury car market offers several appealing options under Rs 1 crore (ex-showroom), but premium electric vehicles are now raising the bar, offering exceptional value. One standout in this category is the Hyundai Ioniq 5, delivering an impressive package for under Rs 50 lakh. Here’s how the Ioniq 5 competes with, and even outshines, cars priced at Rs 1 crore (ex-showroom).
    1. Pricing
    One of Hyundai Ioniq 5’s strongest selling points is its highly competitive price. Thanks to being imported via the CKD route, the Ioniq 5 benefits from lower taxes, making it a great value proposition. Available at Rs 46.05 lakh (ex-sh). For comparison, several electric crossover SUVs with smaller batteries, reduced range, less performance, and less dynamic FWD layouts are priced up to 50% higher than the Ioniq 5. Additionally, many similarly sized ICE SUVs cost significantly more than the Ioniq 5.
    Hyundai Ioniq5
    2. Design
    The Hyundai Ioniq 5 is undeniably a striking vehicle. While design preferences can be subjective, it’s hard to imagine anyone disliking its unique aesthetic. Hyundai has seamlessly blended retro charm with modern design elements, creating a cohesive and stylish machine. The silhouette is that of a large hatchback, enhanced with a crossover twist thanks to the rugged body cladding.
    Retro touches, such as pixel-inspired LED lighting at the front and rear and alloy wheels with a swirling pattern reminiscent of classic wire-spoke designs, add to its visual appeal. The Ioniq 5’s design makes a powerful first impression. Inside, the minimalistic approach is complemented by a range of innovative features, enhancing both style and functionality.
    Hyundai Ioniq 5 Eco Credentials
    3. Inviting & Eco-conscious Interiors
    On the inside, the Hyundai Ioniq 5 offers a minimalist yet luxurious and sophisticated atmosphere. Two large 12.3-inch displays—one for infotainment and the other for instrumentation—dominate the dashboard, add a modern, high-tech vibe. The seats are well-cushioned and upholstered with premium materials, with the front seats ventilated and both front and rear seats powered. Standout features include a stylish 2-spoke steering wheel, a sliding glove box, calf rests for the front seats, and other thoughtful design elements.
    In addition to its eco-friendly powertrain, Hyundai has incorporated sustainable materials into the Ioniq 5’s interior. Eco-processed leather, natural flower-derived paint, recyclable paperette on the door trims, seatbacks and door armrests made from recycled bottles, and headliners and carpets derived from plant waste are just a few examples. Hyundai India’s commitment to sustainability is further reflected in its RE100 (100% renewable energy) initiative, setting it apart from many rival brands in the market.
    Hyundai Ioniq 5 Interiors
    4. Accommodating Space
    Thanks to its E-GMP platform, the Hyundai Ioniq 5 boasts a generous 3,000 mm wheelbase, which is comparable to the current Mercedes-Benz E-Class LWB. This translates into a spacious interior that can comfortably cater to both families and chauffeur-driven owners, a versatility rarely seen in crossovers and SUVs under Rs 1 crore in India. The 531L boot space is also ample for a vehicle of this size.
    To further enhance its appeal to chauffeur-driven customers, the Ioniq 5 comes equipped with features like electrically operated rear seats, three adjustable headrests, a center armrest, rear window sunshades, and a dedicated blower with AC vents on the B-pillars. Additionally, the electrically operated Boss mode for rear passengers adds an extra layer of luxury. These features are rare in vehicles under Rs 1 crore and almost unheard of in those under Rs 50 lakh, making the Ioniq 5 stand out even more.
    Hyundai Ioniq 5 Comfort
    5. Versatility with Performance
    While the Hyundai Ioniq 5’s 0-100 km/h sprint in around 7.5 seconds may not be the fastest, it strikes an ideal balance between versatility and performance, making it one of the best crossover SUVs in India. While some dual-motor SUVs can achieve 0-100 km/h in about 5 seconds under Rs 1 crore, they often lack the practicality and versatility that the Ioniq 5 offers.
    The Ioniq 5 excels in its ability to be both a driver’s car and a chauffeur-driven owner’s vehicle, a rare combination. Its impressive ARAI-certified range of 631 km ensures that daily commutes and long road trips are hassle-free. The convenience of a steering column-mounted gear selector and Porsche-inspired mode selector on the steering wheel adds to its appeal, further highlighting its dual-purpose nature.
    Hyundai Ioniq 5 Boot
    In conclusion, the Hyundai Ioniq 5 redefines what an electric vehicle can offer in the sub-Rs 1 crore segment. With its competitive pricing under Rs 50 lakh, innovative design, eco-friendly materials, spacious interiors, and versatile performance, it effortlessly combines luxury and practicality. Whether you’re looking for a daily driver or a chauffeur-driven experience, the Ioniq 5 ticks all the boxes, providing incredible value without compromising on features. It’s a car that not only competes with much more expensive rivals but also sets a new benchmark for what buyers can expect in this price range. More

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    Honda Electric Motorcycle With Sidecar – Patent Leaks

    Image for reference onlyWhile it is early days to say that the sidecars have returned, but it is interesting to see the direction Honda is heading
    One of the most iconic aspects associated with a vintage motorcycle has to be sidecars. Popular in the past, sidecars are not exactly a thing in the modern world. We occasionally see one in a resto-mod of a vintage bike. But Honda thinks Sidecars need to be back and it will make them more technologically advanced than ever before.
    Honda Electric Motorcycle With Sidecar
    Sidecars are almost non-existent in today’s world. Once considered a practical attribute to multi-personnal transportation, is obsolete today. Today, we only see sidecars with motorcycles in museums, resto-mods of vintage bikes and old movies.
    Honda thinks there is more to sidecars and is working on a modern model. With technology taking centre stage, Honda’s new sidecar patent shows modernization and sophistication and is packed full of technology. We say this because Honda’s sidecar model is electrified and seems to be optimized for excellent dynamics.
    For starters, there are load sensors on Honda’s upcoming sidecar where the supports connect this external structure to the motorcycle. Sidecar’s wheel is powered by an electric motor which will work on data fed to it by various sensors. Also, controller of this electric motor detects if the vehicle is accelerating or decelerating.
    Honda Electric Motorcycle With Sidecar Patent Leaked
    Idea is that the Sidecar will work in tandem with motorcycle and will cause minimum alterations to bike’s dynamics. In a straight line, the electric motor drives itself when motorcycle is accelerating and brakes when the motorcycle is braking. With varying speeds, power delivery of electric motor modulates accordingly.
    How does it work?
    Honda aims to reduce or remove the sudden yaw movement with added sidecar on straight line conditions. Expecting a uniform motion, reducing change in direction expected with added sidecar. Thus giving riders more confidence to ride a motorcycle with a sidecar attached.
    While cornering, sidecar will either apply brakes or accelerate further with the help of an onboard electric motor, depending on said corner. If sidecar is on the outside of a curve, then it needs to cover a larger distance than motorcycle needing slight acceleration. If it is on the inside, it needs to brake to retain traction.
    All this sophistication is to neutralize the added effect of a sidecar on motorcycle’s original dynamics. As of now, the efficiency of this system is not yet revealed. It would be interesting to see where this development leads.
    We are yet to see sidecars for motorcycles gain more popularity in the future, to justify any input costs to develop a technology in this direction. Also, will this only work with electric motorcycles? Or sidecars will have dedicated batteries of their own? There seem to be more questions than answers. More

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    Citroen C5 Aircross EV Spied Testing Without Any Camouflage

    Citroen C5 Aircross EV SpiedCurrently, 48V self-charging Hybrid and PHEV versions are on sale and for the first time, we can see a Citroen C5 Aircross EV
    Globally, Stellantis conglomeration is under a major crisis and Citroen, one of its subsidiaries, has been facing tough times as well. Recently, Citroen even called it quits in Australia after operating there for over 100 years. Amidst all these crises, Global Citroen is soldiering ahead with a new all-electric C5 Aircross SUV and seems to be in final stages of testing.
    Citroen C5 Aircross EV Spied
    After launching C3 and C3 Aircross SUVs (global-spec), Citroen has turned its gaze towards C5 Aircross SUV. It has to be noted that C5 Aircross is the largest SUV Citroen makes and is of paramount importance for the brand in the premium segment.
    Citroen C5 Aircross EV Spied
    Even amidst dwindling sales and unsure future of C5 Aircross, Citroen is willing to launch an all-electric version of it, showing its commitment to electric powertrains and its projected future. The test mules of an all-electric Citroen C5 have been spotted for the first time in Southern Europe.
    Currently, Citroen sells a 48V self-charging hybrid and a more advanced plug-in hybrid version of C5 Aircross SUV. But a fully electric model is spotted for the first time. CEO of Stellantis, Carlos Tavares, had confirmed the development of an all-electric Citroen C5 Aircross and a year later, we get to see prototypes in what seems like final stages of testing.
    Citroen C5 Aircross EV Battery
    The test mule in these spy shots carry identical bodywork as outgoing C5 Aircross Hybrid. We can even see a Hybrid badge at the back, which the company hopes will mask the actual identity of this fully-electric test mule. Like hiding in plain sight. Internally, it is known as CR3 and it will be positioned on Stellantis’ STLA Medium platform.
    However, there are a few new elements on this particular test mule suggesting that it is indeed, a fully-electric offering and not a PHEV with a small battery. For starters, there is no exhaust at the back, something both C5 Aircross Hybrid and C5 Aircross PHEV have. Also, there is a giant battery protruding downwards from the floor.
    Citroen C5 Aircross EV Deceiving Hybrid Badge
    What can we expect?
    The 13.2 kWh battery in C5 Aircross PHEV does not protrude downwards like this. This battery unit seems to be stretching across the wheelbase, which was not the case in C5 Aircross PHEV. All these hints and the CEO of Stellantis confirming the development a year ago, suggest that the test mule in this spy shot is indeed, a fully-electric Citroen C5 Aircross EV.
    There won’t be a lot of visual changes between outgoing model and the upcoming C5 Aircross EV. It might be called Citroen e-C5 Aircross, upon launch. Interiors are likely to be carried over too. We can expect a large 86 kWh battery pack with up to 500 km of range on a single charge. Similar to Peugeot E-3008 and Opel Grandland Electric. This particular model is less likely to launch in India.
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    MG Windsor Running Costs Explained – Battery Included In Rs 9.99 Lakh Price

    MG Windsor EVWith the battery cost not included in the pricing, MG Windsor EV is easily accessible, starting at just Rs 9.99 lakh (Ex-sh)
    MG Motor has launched its third electric offering in India, the Windsor EV, positioned as a CUV. With its quirky design and comprehensive range of advanced features, MG Windsor EV can attract a wide segment of users. Another beneficial aspect is the unique Battery-as-a-Service (BaaS) ownership program.
    MG Windsor Running Cost – Key highlights
    Affordable pricing – With the BaaS in place, MG Windsor EV is available at a starting price of just Rs 9.99 lakh. In comparison, Tata Punch EV starts at Rs 10.99 lakh, whereas Nexon EV is priced at Rs 14.49 lakh. However, customers investing in Windsor EV will have to pay the rental money for using the battery.
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    Battery rental cost – Along with the upfront cost of Rs 9.99 lakh, users will have to pay a battery rental cost of Rs 3.5 per km. There’s a battery rental charge of a minimum of 1,500 km. It implies that users will need to pay Rs 5,250 as a single recharge amount. It is to be noted that this is just the rental for using the battery. The expenses for the charging will be additional.
    Free fast charging for one year – To ensure early adopters are not burdened with high variable costs, MG Motor is offering free fast charging at its charging stations. This offer will run for a year and will be available to only a specific number of initial buyers. MG has not revealed exactly how many customers stand to gain from the free one-year charging.
    MG Windsor BaaS Program
    Lifetime battery warranty – MG Motor is offering the Windsor EV with a lifetime battery warranty. However, this will apply only to the first owner. If the car is sold, the standard warranty of 8 years or 1.6 lakh km will be applicable.
    BaaS to promote faster EV adoption
    High initial cost is among the key reasons why many people are unable to make the switch to EVs. MG Motor has effectively solved the problem with its BaaS ownership program. Even though customers have to bear the rental cost and charging expenses, these will be relatively much smaller amounts. As the battery rental is priced based on kilometres used, it suits the needs of both occasional users and heavy users.
    MG Windsor Benefits
    MG Windsor running costs will be lowered by using the free one-year fast charging option being offered. Users also benefit from the Buyback plan applicable to the CUV. As is evident, MG Motor’s unique ownership program for Windsor EV brings in multiple benefits for customers. Depending on the response, other OEMs may also introduce similar plans shortly.
    The upfront cost of Windsor EV works out cheaper than Punch EV, whereas the equipment list matches that of Nexon EV and Mahindra XUV400. Windsor EV also has various first-in-segment features such as Aero lounge seats with 135° recline and an infinity view glass roof. There’s an extra-large 15.6-inch touchscreen, 256 colour ambient lighting and a 6-way power driver seat.
    MG Windsor EV Variants and Colours More

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    MG Windsor EV Launch Price Rs 9.99L – 331km Range, 136bhp, 200Nm

    MG Windsor EV launchWith its unique design language, MG Windsor EV is marketed as a CUV, instead of an SUV, catering to a niche with acres of interior space
    With massive ambitions, JSW MG Motor JV has set out their journey together with a product offensive, starting from MG Windsor EV. While MG had ZS EV and Comet EV on sale in India, Windsor EV caters to a different audience. With a starting price of Rs 9.99 lakh (Ex-sh, introductory), Windsor EV emerges as a very tempting proposition, considering everything it offers.
    MG Windsor EV Launch Price
    Advertised as a CUV (Crossover Utility Vehicle), MG Windsor EV is a unique vehicle. We say this because it is a crossover between what looks like a hatchback and an SUV. Unlike the vehicles sold in India (as SUVs) with similar ethos, MG Windsor EV leans more towards the hatchback side, than SUV. These are three variants (Excite, Exclusive & Essence) and four colour options (Turquoise Green, Starburst Black, Pearl White & Clay Beige).
    MG Windsor EV Variants & Colours
    Thus achieving a unique silhouette with soothing lines and an overall friendly appearance. All the sheet metal profiling has been done in a tasteful way and there is large glass area to complement the space on the inside. There are flush door handles along with large 18-inch alloy wheels and all-four disc brakes.
    Split headlight design with connecting LED DRLs, connected LED tail lights, multiple gloss black elements around the body, a very small bonnet and electrically operated tailgate are some of Windsor EV’s notable exterior highlights.
    MG Windsor EV
    According to MG, Windsor EV accentuates the vastness, expansiveness and luxury of Windsor Castle, one of Britain’s most popular tourist attractions. MG also associates Windsor EV’s interiors as “business class” with many comparisons in its marketing material. With up to 1,707L of storage capacity, space is likely to be Windsor EV’s key strength.
    Features and Specifications
    Owing to its large 2,700mm wheelbase and 135-degree reclining Aero-Lounge seats, MG Windsor EV might emerge as the most spacious offering among similarly sized vehicles. Speaking of size, Windsor EV measures 4,295 mm in length, 1,850 mm in width and 1,652 mm in height. There is a 604L boot with all seats up.
    MG Windsor EV
    On the inside, MG Windsor EV offers a plush feeling with many soft-touch elements. Seats get ‘Italian Bubble-Style’ leatherette seat covers, rear seat gets sofa mode with 135-degree recline. Both front seats are electrically adjustable and there is a giant glass roof that lets in a lot of light. Largest-in-class 15.6-inch TFT infotainment screen, 8.8-inch instrument screen dominate the dashboard.
    There’s a wireless charging pad, configurable ambient lighting, automatic climate control, rear AC vents, 9-speakers by Infinity, keyless entry, push-button start, an air filter, home-to-car features, connected car features, electronic parking brake, TPMS and more. Safety-wise, there are 6 airbags and more.
    MG Windsor Interior
    Where powertrains are concerned, MG Windsor EV is powered by a 38 kWh battery pack, good for an ARAI-claimed 331 km of range from a single charge. A single electric motor with 136 bhp of peak power and 200 Nm of peak torque drives the front wheels. There will be DC fast charging too.
    60% resale value under assured buyback program for 3 years, industry-first unlimited km warranty, 1-year free charging at MG e-Hub are notable perks as well. To overcome price disparity between ICE and EV, MG Windsor EV will get battery as a service and then pay per km as you drive along. More

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    BYD eMAX 7 Electric MPV Spied Without Camouflage Ahead Of Launch

    BYD eMAX 7 SpiedReplacing e6, BYD eMAX 7 electric MPV will launch soon and might strike an attractive price point of around Rs 30 lakh (Ex-sh)
    After teasing its upcoming electric MPV for Indian market, BYD has also revealed the name of this product. Called BYD eMAX 7, it is a facelift or an update to e6, which has been delisted from company website. The company is soon to launch eMAX 7 electric MPV in India. Here’s what it looks like without camouflage.
    BYD eMAX 7 Electric MPV Spied
    Indian electric vehicle market has seen a lot of new entrants. In the 4W sector, new electric car launches are getting more frequent. Many OEMs are willing to try their luck in this segment, which might prove fruitful. BYD is at it too, with vehicles like (now delisted) e6, Atto 3 and Seal electric sedan with a performance edge.
    The company recently revealed the name – eMAX 7. Set to launch soon, it will replace the now-delisted BYD e6. BYD has only teased its upcoming electric MPV. However, spy shots of eMAX 7 are out ahead of an official launch, lending us an insight at what we can expect with BYD’s next launch.
    Globally, BYD eMAX 7 is also called M6 or Song Max. It is a mid-life facelift for e6 electric MPV, offering a new fascia and freshening up the looks to make it more desirable than before. Looking at the spy shots, we can see eMAX 7 from the side and rear angles.
    BYD eMAX 7 Electric MPV Spied
    The test mule in these spy shots dons a red number plate from Tamil Nadu state. From the sides, we can see an almost identical silhouette to e6, as eMAX 7 is only a facelift. However, we can see new alloy wheels in a dual-tone finish, which are far more stylish than what BYD offered with e6.
    From the rear, we can see an entirely new look, starting with larger and more sophisticated LED tail lights. Roof spoiler has a sporty character now and rear bumper looks more premium as there are fewer black bits to reduce visual mass. Even though these spy shots don’t show front fascia, we can expect it to look identical to M6 sold globally.
    Vastly more premium interiors
    While exterior changes seemed subtle, we expect a major overhaul on the inside with an identical interior to M6. We expect a larger rotating screen as seen with other BYD vehicles, more premium materials, a re-designed centre console with improved switches and buttons and more equipment than e6 sold in India.
    BYD M6
    BYD eMAX 7 (M6) measures 4,710 mm in length, 1,810 mm in width, 1,690 mm in height and a 2,800 mm long wheelbase. There will be 3 rows of seating with a lot of room. Battery is likely to be a 71.8 kWh unit with up to 531 km range on a single charge (NEDC claimed). A single electric motor with around 200 horses and 310 torques driving the front wheels might take BYD eMAX 7 to 100 km/h in 8.6 seconds. More

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    Tata EV Price Cut Up To Rs 3 Lakh – Punch EV Rs 10 L, Nexon EV Rs 12.5 L, 6 Months Free Charging

    Tata EV Price Cut Up To Rs 3 LakhTata.ev Celebrates ‘Festival of Cars’ with Unmatched Prices on Electric Vehicles – Nexon Ev now priced on par with petrol/diesel variants
    TATA.ev, a leader in India’s electric mobility space, has announced a groundbreaking pricing strategy for its bestselling electric vehicles (EVs) as part of the ‘Festival of Cars’ celebration. The company aims to make electric vehicles more accessible to the masses by offering never-before-seen prices and benefits on its popular models, including the Tiago.ev, Punch.ev, and Nexon.ev.
    Tata EV Price Cut Up To Rs 3 Lakh
    This bold move comes as carmakers across India face declining sales, leading many to offer significant discounts on previously in-demand models that rarely received price cuts. TATA.ev’s new pricing structure is part of this trend, with the Nexon.ev seeing a price drop to just Rs 12.49 lakh, aligning it with its petrol and diesel counterparts.
    Tata EVs New Prices – Valid till 31st Oct 2024
    Tata Punch.ev now starts at Rs 9.99 lakh, while the Tiago.ev remains competitively priced at Rs 7.99 lakh. Customers can enjoy savings of up to Rs 3 lakh on the Nexon.ev and Rs 1.20 lakh on the Punch.ev, further enhancing the appeal of electric mobility. This comes a day after Tata Motors slashed prices of their ICE cars.
    Mr. Vivek Srivatsa, Chief Commercial Officer, Tata Passenger Electric Mobility Ltd., said, “Our singular purpose at TATA.ev is to mainstream EVs, by breaking barriers and making EVs more accessible to regular car buyers. With these special, limited period prices, we are breaking the high acquisition cost barrier for EVs, and bringing EV prices closer to similar petrol and/or diesel-powered vehicles.
    Tata EV Price Range – Old vs New
    Customers now have the perfect opportunity to start enjoying our new age, high-performance, zero emission and zero noise EVs, which also offer low running costs and greater driving comfort. Customers will additionally benefit immensely from the complimentary public charging offering at Tata Power chargers. We look forward to welcoming customers at their nearest Tata Motors and TATA.ev showrooms as they join the EV revolution.”
    Tata EVs Range as per new MIDC Standard
    TATA.ev’s aggressive pricing strategy follows improvements in localization and technology, enabling the company to pass on these benefits to customers. In addition to the reduced prices, customers purchasing during this festive period will benefit from six months of free charging at over 5,500 Tata Power charging stations across the country, simplifying both urban and long-distance travel. More

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    BYD eMAX 7 launch nears – India

    BYD eMAX 7 MPV launchBYD eMAX 7 MPV: A New Chapter in Electric Mobility
    A next-generation electric MPV, BYD eMAX 7 MPV follows the success of the BYD e6. Enhanced in key areas, it features an electric drive system and improved performance. Range is optimised to meet diverse needs, focusing on sustainability and practicality.
    Feedback from existing BYD customers influenced the eMAX 7’s design. Market research identified the demand for a versatile, reliable electric vehicle. BYD has refined the MPV to ensure it meets the expectations of a growing customer base seeking comfort, tech and modernity in a single vehicle. The model represents BYD’s commitment to providing high-performance electric solutions for everyday use.
    BYD M6 Electric MPV Teased
    BYD’s Electric Journey: 2.3 Million Vehicles and Counting
    BYD ‘born EV’ portfolio is now a key focus area for the automotive major. A philosophy that allows for more efficient energy usage. In terms of market performance, BYD has already sold over 2.3 million new energy vehicles globally by 2024, a significant milestone. It operates in 94 countries and continues to expand its influence. As a Fortune Global 500 company and the leading manufacturer of new energy vehicles (NEVs) worldwide, BYD continues to grow as a dominant force in the electric vehicle industry.
    The BYD eMAX 7’s electric drive would offer a smooth drive while keeping up with global electric goals. Its electric motor is at the heart of balancing power and efficiency. Improvements over the e6 ensure that the new car is more responsive and adaptable to offer over and above what its predecessor did.
    Small Niche, Big Impact: BYD eMAX 7 in the eMPV Segment
    With electric mobility being a major discussion platform, BYD eMAX 7 positions itself in a small volume segment. MPVs by themselves don’t enjoy a large market share here, and teh auto manufacturer’s offering finds itself in the eMPV space. An even smaller marketplace.
    eMAX 7’s would work as an efficient vehicle for a comfortable and spacious ride. Modern features and user-friendly interface are part of its appeal.
    A Family-Friendly, Eco-Friendly MPV
    BYD India has played a significant role in promoting electric mobility in the region. Over 11 years, BYD has contributed to the local electric vehicle market. The eMAX 7 continues this legacy, offering advanced features and practical benefits through a eMPV.
    Rajeev Chauhan, Head of Electric Passenger Vehicles (EPV) Business at BYD India, said, “BYD personifies sustainable luxury, and it is our constant endeavour to evolve and offer best-in-class technology and features to our customers. The BYD eMAX 7 is a testament to our efforts, which are designed after careful study of the market and feedback from the existing customers. It is a forward-thinking vehicle ideal for consumers who prioritise both sustainable luxury and practicality. The BYD eMAX 7 is a perfect fit for families seeking eco-friendly solutions without compromising on style and performance.” More