Electric Cars

Subterms

    More stories

    • 150 Shares169 Views

      in Electric Cars

      New Hyundai Micro UV Spied First Time – Maruti WagonR Electric Rival?

      by

      Hyundai Micro UV
      Hyundai’s mass market electric car for India is expected to be ready by 2023

      Hyundai has gone on record to state that they are studying the possibility of a mass market EV for India. With the help of its Namyang R&D HQ, Hyundai’s Indian team has already commenced a study to arrive at optimal key parameters (range, power, price, etc) for a mass market EV.
      Hyundai AX1 micro UV spied in Korea
      Prototypes of what could eventually emerge as a mass market electric vehicle for the Asian markets have been spotted on a truck in South Korea. The Venue-style low-mounted headlamps and a prominent grille give away Hyundai’s identity. International media reports claim that these are Hyundai AX1 (codename) micro UV prototypes.
      The camouflaged test mules appear to have near-production body panels. From what we can see, the vehicle features an SUV-ish tall-boy design with a compact footprint. The angular design elements gives the car an interesting and unconventional shape. Finer elements are under wraps but it is reasonable to expect radical design conforming to the brand’s current language.
      Specifications
      The technical details of the new Hyundai AX1 small car are scarce for now but the tall wheels and narrow tyres are indicative of a configuration which is commonly preferred for an electric vehicle.
      Hyundai Micro UV Codenamed AX1 – Rival to Maruti WagonR Electric in India?
      With global automotive markets including India scrambling to adopt electric mobility at the earliest, it would be prudent for any upcoming mass market product to prioritize pure electric powertrain during the development phase even if it has to adopt conventional IC power units at the beginning of its life cycle.
      If the Hyundai AX1 is to be propelled by fossil fuel, then the most likely powertrain candidate is the 1.0-liter three-cylinder unit which is available in both NA and turbocharged guises. As far as electric propulsion system goes, Hyundai is likely to have multiple motor and battery configurations to suit different markets.
      Will it come to India?
      It would be surprising if a car of this size and shape from Hyundai does not make it to India. We expect it to be showcased in the form of a concept at Auto Expo 2022 before its market launch sometime later that year or in 2023. Hyundai’s mass market electric vehicle will be pitted against the upcoming Maruti WagonR EV, Mahindra eKUV100, Citroen sub Rs 8 lakh EV for India, etc.
      Just like Hyundai India’s current mass market products, the upcoming electric vehicle will have over 90% localization in order to achieve a competitive price point. The future is electric and Hyundai knows it very well.
      Source More

    • 113 Shares199 Views

      in Electric Cars

      India-Made Pravaig Extinction Mk1 Electric Car Debut Next Month

      by

      Pravaig Extinction Electric Car
      The Pravaig Extinction Mk1 will be revealed later this year with launch sometime in late 2021

      In global markets, while Tesla is a leader in the electric vehicle segment with models such as Model 3, Model S, Model X and Roadster, electric vehicle technology in India is still in its nascent stage. However, automakers such as Hyundai, MG and Tata Motors have the Kona, ZS EV and Nexon EV respectively in this segment and several other electric cars are being tested. Even as these mainstream automakers make their entry into the electric vehicle segment, there are also some startups making inroads into this cleaner and greener electric vehicle space.
      Pravaig Extinction Mk1 features
      Earlier this year, Bangalore-based mobility startup Pravaig Dynamics had revealed details of the new electric car called Pravaig Extinction Mk1 which the company expects to put on the global map. It is an electric car which is set for a reveal next month, and launch date scheduled for sometime in 2021.

      Extinction Mk1 sports a two door coupe design with a swooping roof line while in its production stance it will come in as a 4 door electric sedan. It will receive a low slung profile, projector LED headlamps, well designed front bumper and sleek LED strips connecting both headlamps with a similar LED bar connecting the tail lamps as well with side indicators on fenders.
      The electric car will also see ‘Pravaig’ lettering on the rear and will ride on multi spoke alloy wheels. It will also come in with disc brakes at the front and rear while multiple drive modes. Regenerative braking and smartphone connectivity would also be among its features.

      Pravaig Extinction Mk1 504km range planned
      As per the company’s website, Pravaig Extinction Mk1 could draw its power via a 96 kWh li-ion battery pack. It will generate output of little over 200 hp and will have a top speed of 196 km/h and an electric range up to 504 km. This range, if proved correct at the time of launch will make it the longest range electric car in the Indian market.
      It will also come in with fast charging facility with up to 80 percent charge in 30 minutes. The company could also introduce Mk1 in a range of variants with varying battery packs offering different levels of performance.

      Launch Date, Pricing & Availability
      No fixed date of launch has been revealed though a late 2021 launch is what is estimated. Pravaig Extinction Mk1 has a sales projection of 250 units per year and will be sold in Delhi and Bangalore for a start. It will then be extended for sale in cities such as Mumbai, Chennai, and Hyderabad. No prices have been announced as on date as the company is looking at a leasing model.
      As is seen with other automakers, Pravaig Dynamics does not plan to set up any dealership or showroom but will instead offer the Extinction Mk1 via the online platform with service stations planned in metro cities. More

    • 213 Shares129 Views

      in Electric Cars

      Tesla Model Y rolls out new winter tire and wheel packages – Roadshow

      by

      If you don’t have warm temps year round, winter tires are the best.
      Tesla
      All-season tires might make things nice and easy on vehicle owners, but trust me, there’s nothing like a set of proper winter tires when the S-word stars falling from the sky. If this doesn’t apply to you in your area, I am jealous.Anyway, for Tesla Model Y owners, the automaker a new option as it rolls out expanded winter wheel and tire packages for those that want to keep their 20-inch wheels on throughout the snowy and cold months. Smaller wheels will help with range issues, but for those that want to keep it simple, this is just the ticket. The 20-inch wheels follow the introduction of a 19-inch wheel package with winter tires as well. They’ll let you keep the same wheels, but provide the much-needed grip from winter tires when needed.

      For more like this
      Subscribe to the Roadshow newsletter, receive notifications and see related stories on CNET.

      However, as Electrek rightfully pointed out, you can also purchase the the winter tires that fit the 19-inch wheels by themselves and save a bit of cash — roughly $2,500. But if you want specific wheels for each season, Tesla’s package is the bundle deal for you. It costs $3,500 total. Winter tires to fit 20-inch wheels exist, but as mentioned, range may suffer. We recently covered the topic extensively, thanks to our favorite explainer-in-chief, Jason Fenske. If you do want to keep the 20-inch wheels and nab the winter package from Tesla, prepare to drop $4,000.

      Now playing:
      Watch this:

      Nissan Ariya EV is the Model Y’s worst nightmare

      2:19 More

    • 188 Shares199 Views

      in Electric Cars

      Want more range from your EV? Get smaller wheels – Roadshow

      by

      It’s safe to say that range is king when it comes to marketing electric vehicles. I mean, there’s a reason manufacturers keep pushing pack sizes up to eke out every bit of range possible. Here’s the thing, though: bigger batteries are good for storing more energy, but they adversely affect the vehicle in other ways, namely in the weight department.So, knowing that weight is the enemy of performance and that bigger packs mean more weight, what if I told you there was a way to get a measurable boost in range from your electric vehicle without touching any of the drivetrain components? Would you believe me? Of course not. I’m not an engineer. Jason Fenske of YouTube’s Engineering Explained is, and he’s ready to drop some science on you.

      For more like this
      Subscribe to the Roadshow newsletter, receive notifications and see related stories on CNET.

      The secret is all in the wheel and tire package for a vehicle. Smaller wheels weigh less and therefore require less energy to get them rolling, making them more efficient. It seems like a no-brainer, right? Then why do companies keep fitting larger and larger wheels to their vehicles? Because people think they look cool. That’s it.Just how much of a difference is there in the range of a Model 3 Performance on 18-inch wheels versus 20-inch wheels? Well, according to Jason’s math (which is much better than mine), the 18s are good for an additional 39 miles of range. That’s a 15% difference, which is huge in EV terms. You also get the benefits of lower cost and increased comfort from using a tire with a taller sidewall.So, there’s the not-so-secret formula for more range on your EV: Slap the smallest wheels you can realistically fit on there, along with some low-rolling-resistance tires, and you’re good to go. Make the tires narrow too (at the expense of a little cornering grip) and laugh all the way past the charging station. More

    • 150 Shares119 Views

      in Electric Cars

      Tata Taureo, Epiq, Spyk Registered – New SUV, MPV, Electric Car Names?

      by

      Digital Render.
      Tata Motors has plans to launch multiple new cars in India by 2022 – Including new SUVs, MPV and electric car

      Aiming to provide more options to customers, Tata Motors will be launching several new products in the near future. More than a dozen new cars are expected to be launched, which will be utilizing either the OMEGA or ALFA platforms. While there isn’t much info available about these new Tata cars right now, some names have been revealed in the trademark applications filed by the company.
      Tata Motors new cars trademarked names
      A total of three names have been revealed – Taureo, Epiq and Spyk. These names are expected to be used for the company’s new sedan, an MPV and a midsize SUV (codename Blackbird) that will rival the likes of Hyundai Creta and Kia Seltos.
      Some of these names could also be used for the upcoming range of electric cars from Tata Motors. However, we will have to wait for some more time to know the exact timeline for the launch of these new models.
      Tata’s new MPV is likely to be based on ALFA platform and it is possible that it could be launched as Tata Taureo. The new MPV is expected to be powered by a 1.5 litre diesel and petrol engine from Nexon. Its primary rival will be Maruti Suzuki Ertiga, which is currently the top selling MPV in the country.
      Future Tata Car Names – Taureo, EPIQ, SPYK
      Tata Motors new sedan and SUV
      There are talks that Tata Motors is working on a new 1.5-litre petrol motor that will be used for its upcoming sedan and midsize SUV. Both of these will be based on the ALFA platform. Tata is also working to launch the next-gen variants of its current bestsellers, Nexon, Tiago and Tigor.
      Products that have already been revealed and are expected to be launched next year include the Gravitas 7-seater SUV and HBX micro SUV. The former is expected by March next year, while HBX will be launched sometime later in 2021.
      Tata Electric Cars
      With demand for electric cars set to rise as the EV ecosystem grows in India; Tata Motors has plans to launch multiple new electric cars in different price brackets, starting from as low as Rs 8 lakhs. Even today, Nexon EV is the best selling electric car in India. And Tata would want to remain at the top of EV sales charts with regular new launches. They have plans to launch HBX EV, Altroz EV, Blackbird EV
      With growing preference for made in India products, Tata Motors has registered strong sales in recent months. Some products like Nexon and Altroz are also gaining popularity owing to their 5-star safety rating in Global NCAP crash tests. In October, Tata Motors sold a total of 23,600 units, which is a 99 month high. YoY growth is a whopping 79.20%, as compared to 13,169 units sold in October last year. More

    • 225 Shares199 Views

      in Electric Cars

      More Rivian R1T and R1S details revealed, configurator goes live Nov. 16 – Roadshow

      by

      The R1T in the dunes of Glamis, California.
      Emme Hall/Roadshow
      Listen up, EV nerds. The Rivian configurator goes live on Nov. 16 — for those who preordered one of the R1T trucks or R1S SUVs, anyway. The rest of you will have to wait until Nov. 23. But in the meantime, Rivian announced a number of new details on Wednesday, including pricing and equipment for various trim packages.Both vehicles will be offered with Adventure or Explore packages and come with Wi-Fi, over-the-air updates, vegan seats and a snazzy panoramic glass roof. Regardless of model, the Adventure package adds an onboard air compressor and sturdier underbody protection, as well as heated and cooled seats and what the company calls a Rivian Elevation 360 stereo system with a removable Bluetooth speaker. For the R1T truck, the Adventure package also adds a remote monitoring system and a power tonneau cover so your kit won’t get nicked while you’re out on a hike. Vehicles with the Adventure Package will be available in January 2022 and will have 300 miles of range. The R1T will be priced at $75,000 while the R1S will go for $77,500.
      Here’s the Rivian R1T electric pickup truck in action off-road
      See all photos

      The Explore package is cool, but it doesn’t have as many features. The vegan seats are there but the cooling technology isn’t. There’s a surround-sound audio system but there isn’t a Bluetooth speaker. And with this package, the R1T will get a manual tonneau cover instead of a power one. However, the Explore package’s price is lower to account for this lack of kit. Explore-equipped Rivians will come online in January 2022 with 300 miles of range, with the R1T costing $67,500 and the R1S coming in at $70,000.If you want a Rivian right away, you’ll have to snag one of the limited Launch Edition models. The R1T Launch Edition will be ready in June 2021 with the R1S following a few months later in August. The Launch Edition includes the Adventure package and 300 miles of range, and drivers will be able to add upgraded wheels and tires for free. It comes painted in a unique color called launch green and will of course have special badging. The Launch Edition doesn’t cost any more than the R1T or R1S with the Adventure package, but quantities are limited.And what of the 400-mile battery pack that we’ve heard so much about? On the R1T it will be available in January 2022. The R1S will be available a little later, though Rivian hasn’t said exactly when that’ll be. Lower-priced, 250-mile R1T and R1S variants should be announced at the same time. The R1S will have a boxy, utilitarian look.
      Rivian
      As for tech, Rivian says the Driver Plus hands-free assistance system will be standard on every vehicle. This geofenced system uses 12 ultrasonic sensors, 10 exterior cameras, five radars and high-precision GPS, allowing the vehicles to steer, change lanes and keep up with traffic on their own. But be aware: This is not a self-driving feature. Owners will have to pay attention at all times and there is an interior camera to monitor driver alertness.For those worried about charging their Rivian, the company says it will soon launch the Rivian Adventure Network, with fast-charging stations throughout the US that can add 140 miles of range in just 20 minutes. However, no specific timeline is available for that rollout.As the only journalist to actually drive a Rivian R1T (so far), I greet this bit of news with a smile. Even the preproduction truck I drove had plenty of range and the off-road chops to charge up sand dunes and soak up whoops. Conventional, gas-powered trucks should be nervous. I can’t wait for the Rivians to launch.

      Now playing:
      Watch this:

      The R1T concept from Rivian is the electric truck we’ve…

      1:46

      Climb in the driver’s seat for the latest car news and reviews, delivered to your inbox twice weekly. More

    • 138 Shares129 Views

      in Electric Cars

      Tata Nexon Electric Wishes Happy Birthday To Owner Via Instrument Cluster

      by

      Tata Nexon Electric
      Tata Nexon EV has also been made available at subscription rates in limited places

      While the electric vehicle (EV) segment might still not be booming in India, it has definitely grown leaps and bounds, especially in the last few months. Several new products from this segment have been lined up for launch in the near future which should make things a little interesting in the automotive industry.
      Currently, among the limited options, Tata Nexon EV is by far the highest-selling electric car in India. It is much affordable than its nearest rivals MG ZS EV and Hyundai Kona and, therefore, has the most value for money proposition. With Tata Motors expanding the sales network of Nexon EV soon, we could definitely see more of it on roads in future.
      Nexon EV’s Birthday Wish
      Barring the powertrain, Nexon EV gets the identical specifications and equipment list as its IC engine counterpart. We have extensively discussed its features on previous occasions, however, there is one new feature that has come up recently and is sure to take many Nexon EV owners by surprise.
      When Mr. Siva N Rai stepped onto his Nexon EV, he received a surprising and the most unusual wish on his birthday from his car. The message read “Happy Birthday” with the visuals of a cake and balloons on its instrument cluster.
      Tata Nexon EV wishes Happy Birthday to Owner
      The owner was extremely surprised and happy to receive this birthday wish from his Nexon EV in the morning. He believes that someone at Tata Motors’ dealership took the effort to integrate details of his KYC done at the time of the purchase to the telematics system. This is probably the first time something like this has been offered in an Indian made car.
      A personalised touch like this can go a long way in creating a loyal customer base and it seems Tata Motors is certainly enjoying a fruitful run in market in the last couple of years. The homegrown brand is currently the third-largest passenger vehicle manufacturer in India as far as sales volumes are concerned.
      Nexon EV Details
      Coming to Nexon EV, it was launched earlier this year in January and is offered in three variants- XM, XZ+ and XZ+ LUX. Its prices start at Rs 13.99 lakh and go upto Rs 16.25 lakh (both prices ex-showroom). Standard features across the range include projector headlamps, automatic climate control, LED DRLs, keyless entry, push-button start, electric tailgate and lots more.
      Nexon EV is based on the brand’s Ziptron powertrain technology which consists of an electric motor powered by a 30.2kWh lithium-ion battery. This setup provides a claimed range of 312 km on a single charge and an output of 129 PS and 245 Nm. More

    • 163 Shares99 Views

      in Electric Cars

      2021 Hyundai Kona Electric Facelift Debuts – To Go On Sale Next Year

      by

      2021 Hyundai Kona Electric
      Hyundai Kona Electric carries on with the same set of powertrains offered in the pre-facelift model

      Electric cars have taken a sizeable portion of the passenger vehicle segment in global markets over recent years. With EV-related technology evolving at a rapid pace, we are seeing more and more electric cars come up in recent times. We have also witnessed demands for EVs rising due to their cheap running cost and powerful performances.
      Hyundai is one such brand that has found success globally with EV offering Kona Electric over the last couple of years. The Korean automaker has given a mid-life facelift to its most popular electric crossover for 2021 and is scheduled to go on sale in the United Kingdom early next year.

      Exterior Styling Updates
      2021 Kona Electric comes with a healthy dose of cosmetic upgrades both inside and outside its cabin and a host of technological updates as well. Its exterior witnesses the highest number of updates, the most dramatic of them being the revised front nose.
      The new grille gets a smooth nose cone which is starkly different from the radiator grille on the petrol-powered Kona thus distinguishing itself from the latter. This also lends a slight aerodynamic update over the pre-facelifted model.

      New Kona Electric also gets a redefined front bumper which receives a pair of vertical inlets that reduce the amount of turbulent air in the front wheel arches to minimise drag. This is complemented by fresh LED DRLs and a pair of redesigned LED headlights.
      The rear end is very much similar except for slightly reconfigured tail lamps. Black claddings on the old car are now colour-coded. In addition to five colours offered on the electric crossover, another five new paint schemes have been added to its palette.
      Interior & Feature Updates
      Interiors of 2021 Kona electric have seen a fair share of updates including a new 10.25-inch touchscreen infotainment system carried from the new-gen i20 and Tucson.

      The new infotainment system is compatible with Apple CarPlay, Android Auto and Hyundai’s connected tech BlueLink which offers features such as Voice Activated Commands, remote climate control to preheat/precool the cabin and remote charging to benefit from off-peak energy rates.
      In addition, it receives new ambient lighting which complements the two-tone interior colour. Safety equipment too receives enhancements such as rear cross-traffic assistance, safe exit warning, blindspot assistance and eCall which in the event of an accident automatically alerts emergency services.

      Powertrain
      Speaking of its powertrain, there is no change in this department. The facelifted model still receives two powertrain options- 39.2kWh battery pack paired with a 134 bhp motor and a larger 64kWh battery pack mated to a 201 bhp electric motor.
      The former claims a single-charge range of 189 miles and a top speed of 154.5 kmph while the latter claims a range of 300 miles and 167 kmph of top speed. The company will provide a 100kW fast-charger which could juice up the battery by 80 percent in just 47 minutes. More