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      Hyundai Kona Electric Rally Spec To Produce An Insane 800 bhp

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      Paddon Rallysport’s champion rally driver Hayden Paddon has said that the Hyundai Kona Electric for the race track should be ready in the coming months
      The company plans to develop one prototype for the race-specific model and make it operational by next month. If everything goes as per plan, it will undergo complete public evaluation and development by December this year. The ultimate goal of the company is to make use of this high-performance fully electrified Kona for the New Zealand rally Championship next year and other races henceforth.
      Details of the Project

      The project was announced last year by Paddon in order to give New Zealand’s motorsport community a global reach. The Kona Electric Rally spec is being developed jointly by Hyundai New Zealand and Paddon Rallysport with assistance from Yes Power, University of Canterbury and STARD, which is an Austrian motorsport team working on electric rallycross vehicles and part of the Stohl Group.
      Paddon Rallysport recently unveiled the aftermarket suspension setup to be used in this Kona Electric rally version. The company had partnered with Italian aftermarket automotive manufacturer- Extreme Racing Shox in developing the custom made suspension setup. Thanks to this new suspension, the rally-spec Kona Electric sits very low as compared to the standard road-specific model. It also is heavier than the regular model.

      At the start of manufacturing the rally-spec Kona Electric, the car was dismantled to its last bit and later reassembled to form an electric car. The process saw a big delay in April and May this year when the Covid-19 pandemic hit hard and was at its peak in New Zealand.
      This made them cut their budget so that no member had to be dropped from their team due to this crisis. The team is back on track and is confident of completing the prototype ahead of next year’s New Zealand Rally Championship although they are likely to miss the first few rounds.
      Mechanical Details
      By June this year, the cage and chassis were almost ready with the transmission and motors to be incorporated next. The battery arrived at its expected time in July when most of the car was ready. As for the body-kit, Haydon had revealed that they will be using carbon to manufacture it. By early 2021, the team expects the custom Kona Electric to be doing hill ascents and short sprints.
      A total of four motors can be packed on the rally car, each of them capable of generating around 300 PS of power. In the rally though, a twin motor setup will be employed which would be generating nearly 600 bhp of power. However, for the short runs and hill ascents, all four battery packs could be used to give a power of around 800 bhp. Paddon is also expected to get behind the wheels of the Kona Electric during the rallies. More

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      Tata Nexon Electric Subscription Plan Prices Cut by Rs 7k – Now At Rs 35k PM

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      Whether or not subscription plans take off in India is yet to be seen but for now more and more manufacturers are ensuring that such an option is being offered to consumers
      Tata Motors had also announced subscription plans for Nexon Electric. This was first announced last month. Prices revealed that time, started from Rs 41,900 per month. Now, about a month later, Tata has revealed prices of subscription plan has been slashed by Rs 7,000.

      Today, Tata has revealed a subscription offer on Nexon EV, at an all-inclusive fixed rental starting at only Rs. 34,900/- per month. This is a limited period offer, and is only valid till till 30th November 2020. The offer duration coincides with the ongoing festive season, and is quite limited in availability.
      This isn’t unexpected since EV sales are right now low compared the the vehicle market size in India. The subscription offer can be availed by the first 100 subscribers only, and does away with commitments that are tied to traditional vehicle ownership, including road tax and registration, insurance renewals, servicing and maintenance.

      Pankaj Jhunja, Head- Mobility Services, Tata Motors said, “It is ideal for customers preferring ‘usership’ over ownership amidst the rapidly growing phenomenon of shared economy.” Tata Nexon limited-period subscription offer is available for a tenure of a minimum period of 12 months, to 24, and 36 months. The service is on offer in Delhi/NCR, Mumbai, Pune, Hyderabad and Bengaluru.
      What is included
      Available as part of a partnership with Orix Auto, the subscription package includes comprehensive insurance coverage, on-call 24×7 roadside assistance plus free maintenance with periodic servicing, and doorstep delivery. A complimentary personal EV charger will be offered for home or office installation.
      Once subscription tenure concludes, customers can either extend subscription, or return the vehicle. The offer is customised, and suited for corporates inclined to lease, those with frequent inter-city job transfers, and expatriates in the country, who are here on fixed tenure, among others. A number of such jobs entail a company car, which would mean companies themselves would need to make a shift to EV procurement for their top employees for such offers to be successful.
      Also Read – Tata Nexon EV Owner Does 250+ kms
      Designed to offer flexibility to customers who already know they would require a vehicle for a fixed period, it’s difficult to imagine other customers making a beeline for subscription offers. For the current financial year, Nexon EV sales has already reached the thousand mark. This includes an order of 150 units from EESL.
      No doubt Tata Nexon EV is on top, but sales volume is noticeably small. A further boost in EV sales can be expected as and when state governments step in to build EV infrastructure and offer benefits for those who adapt. For now, the onus lies on those who are considered to be more environmentally conscious. The current subscription plan is designed to be smarter, affordable and convenient, and to make EVs even more accessible. More

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      Tata Nexon Electric Joins Kerala Motor Vehicle Department

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      Tata Motors also bagged order of 150 Nexon EVs from EESL earlier this month
      The Motor Vehicle Department (MVD) of Kerala had placed an order of 65 units of the Nexon EV earlier this year. Now we can confirm that the deliveries of the Nexon EVs have commenced from Tata Motors’ end.

      The photos show Nexon Electric SUVs in white colour, in the top end XZ+ trim.These EVs will be part of the ‘Safe Kerala’ project (launched in order to ensure better enforcement of the Motor Vehicle Act) and will be used for law enforcement duties in the coastal state.
      The electric SUVs in the photo come along with heavy MVD branding. The MVD logo can be seen on the side and even on the bonnet. Additionally, some more livery can be seen on the side of the car.

      It isn’t clear if these EVs got any additional equipment over the standard Nexon EV. Most MVD vehicles get a dedicated radio, strobes, cameras and radar speed sensors and it is highly likely that these units would have also got the same. However, it is difficult to figure out any additional details on the equipment list from the photos alone.
      Tata Nexon EV EESL Order
      The procurement of EVs for various government offices is being led by the ESSL (Energy Efficiency Services Ltd) which is a department under the Ministry of Power. In the early days, Tata and Mahindra were leading the EV bids and almost had a duopoly.
      However, with more electric vehicles coming in, even vehicles like Hyundai Kona EV are getting additional orders from the ESSL. The procured vehicles for the MVD will be maintained by the ESSL which will also be installing electric charging stations at all offices where these Nexon EVs will be stationed.

      The Nexon EV is one of the most cost effective full-sized electric vehicle on sale in India. It is sold in 3 different trim levels and has its pricing starting at INR 13.99 lakhs. All variants draw power from a 30.2 kWh lithium ion battery pack.
      Total power output of the EV stands at 129 bhp and 245 Nm of peak torque, which it extracts out of its electric motor. ARAI claimed drive range stands at 312 km on a single charge and if driven judiciously, real-life customers also have managed to get a drive of 250+ kms on single charge.
      Competition of the Nexon EV are currently limited, which just include the ZS EV from MG Motors and Kona EV from Hyundai. However, going ahead in the future, Nexon EV might face considerable challenge from upcoming competitors. Speaking of sales, Nexon EV is the best selling EV currently, with over 60% market share this fiscal year. More

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      The new EVs we're most excited about – Roadshow

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      Audi/Ford/Nissan/Rivian
      More and more electric cars are coming. Today, there may only be a baker’s dozen on sale, but over the next few years, the choices will grow tremendously. It’s a big switch from the traditional internal-combustion engine, but honestly, we’re excited for some great new cars that happen to run on battery power.To prove it, in this list, each of our editors picks the electric car they’re most excited about and explains why. We left it open to EVs already announced but awaiting launch, EVs we know only slivers of info about and some that are already sale today that await new variants. Be sure to let us know what EVs get you excited in the comments, too.

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      Volkswagen
      Volkswagen ID BuzzYes, in spite of a slew of sexy and high-power electric performance cars on the horizon, the EV launch I’m most excited about really is a minivan. But not just any minivan, I’m amped for the production version of the Volkswagen ID Buzz, the battery-powered revival of the brand’s legendary Type 2 Microbus.Due in 2022, VW’s electric Bus revival will hopefully get a better name, but even if it doesn’t, this charismatic-looking thing promises to provide guilt-free performance, flexible seating configurations and more utility than most SUVs.The ID Buzz is slated to be built in Chattanooga, Tennessee, riding atop VW’s MEB platform. Packing available all-wheel drive, gobs of tech, plenty of range (well over 300 miles) and wrapped in nostalgia-soaked looks, VW’s ID Buzz doesn’t just look like a winner, it has the potential to create a new vehicle category all by its lonesome.– Chris Paukert
      Ford
      Ford Mustang Mach-EThe upcoming electric vehicle I’m anticipating most is the Mustang Mach-E. Yeah, I get it, this is pretty low-hanging fruit, but hear me out. Not only is this vehicle a fashion-forward SUV, it has available all-wheel drive, should offer potent performance and is far more versatile than any vehicle that Ford’s ever put the Mustang name on before. It has the potential to be a truly groundbreaking new product and transform this hallowed nameplate in the 21st Century.As Tesla’s proven, there is a market for upscale, feature-rich EVs, something mainstream automakers have taken nearly a decade to figure out. Instead of building another boring hatchback with kidney bean-like proportions and utterly forgettable features, designers and engineers in Dearborn decided to do something different, to build an aspirational electric car. Like various Tesla models, the Mach-E is intended to show that battery-powered vehicles can be sporty, fun and interesting. One look at the specs sheet and it sure looks like they’ve succeeded. Another reason I’m excited about the Mach-E launch is because I want to see how the Mustang community reacts to such an “imposter.” Diehard fans were quick to decry this EV when it was unveiled late last year, and I’m sure their disdain has only grown during COVID-19 quarantine. Keep a bowl of popcorn handy, because once this thing starts showing up at dealerships and your local cars and coffee, there will be some heated discussions and likely a few epic tantrums.– Craig Cole
      Tim Stevens/Roadshow
      Polestar 2From a pure aesthetics standpoint, it’s hard for me to not be drawn in by the look of the Polestar 2. It’s handsome and simple, and while I wish it had more of a proper hatch on the back, inside and out it has the clean vibe that I’ve come to love about modern Volvos. It’s one of the few EVs that genuinely makes me look twice, and that’s doubly so thanks to the interior. It’s like slotting into a cool, relaxing cabin.Beyond aesthetics, that interior also is the first on the road to feature Android Automotive, which takes many of the concepts of Android Auto and effectively expands that to control the entire car’s interface. No more need to pair your phone, it’s Android all the way — maybe a little concerning if you’re not into Google, which I appreciate, but if you are, it’s amazing to just sign in to the car and have everything already there.But most importantly, this is just a great car. I’ve been lucky enough to spend a day in one and it’s quick, fun, comfortable, smooth and, of course, quiet. 275 miles of range is plenty for me. My only concern? The price. $60,000 is a little rich for my blood right now. Not to say that it’s not worth it, of course.– Tim Stevens
      Hyundai
      Hyundai Ioniq 6The Hyundai Prophecy EV concept has the look. Now, the Korean automaker has me hyped after announcing the Prophecy will indeed enter production as part of its spun-off Ioniq sub-brand. This sexy design will become the Ioniq 6, scheduled for launch in 2022. Crappy name, great-looking car.I’m basing my excitement on the hopes Hyundai designers find a way to keep the lovely bodywork just as stunning for production, but if recent Hyundai designs are any indicator, I think they’ll be successful. There’s just something refreshing about the Prophecy’s looks. Perhaps it’s the utter shunning of jagged angles and angry, slanted headlights. The Prophecy looks friendly, curvy and sort of like a 993-generation Porsche 911. It just looks good. I don’t know squat about the powertrain other than it will be totally electric. That was the only major criteria for this list.What’s even cooler, if Hyundai manages it, is that the Ioniq 6 should have suicide doors. This is actually a sedan, and the concept sports some killer doors that reveal a plaid-laden cockpit. If Hyundai wants its upcoming Ioniq division to snap some necks, I think the 6 is going to accomplish the mission with ease. Just don’t screw it up, please.– Sean Szymkowski
      Rivian
      Rivian R1TThe Rivian R1T is the first truck to get the full-EV treatment. What’s even better, the thing looks to be more than just a grocery getter with a bed. The biggest 180-kilowatt-hour battery is allegedly good for 400 miles of range and it boasts some fairly impressive off-road numbers.Ground clearance is a remarkable 14 and a half inches while approach and departure angles are 34.8 degrees and 30.5 degrees, respectively. Further, it can ford 42.7 inches of water. For those keeping score, those numbers beat the dirt-slaying Ford F-150 Raptor and its challenger the Ram 1500 TRX.While it still remains to be seen how the R1T will perform in the real world, its range should be enough for day trips into the wild. The design is pretty boss, too, with some cool pass-through storage behind the rear seats and a spare tire that hides neatly in the bed. It won’t go on sale until 2021 due to a coronavirus shutdown, but the company assures me it’s working to bring the R1T to consumers as soon as possible.– Emme Hall
      Andrew Krok/Roadshow
      Mercedes-Benz G-ClassI love the Mercedes-Benz G-Wagen. Like, really love it. So when news broke that an electric version of the G would be coming within the next few years I got extremely excited. All the best parts of the G-Class without the horrible gas mileage? Sign me up.Sure, part of the G’s appeal is the burbly V8 and side-exit exhaust, but I think the SUV’s character will lend itself really well to EV power. A large battery pack should be a benefit to the G’s center of gravity too, thus making it a little less tippy in corners. While I don’t know any powertrain details yet, the electric G is sure to be as immensely good off-road as the normal one, and it will probably be the quickest version, as well. And if going electric can allow the G to continue on for decades to come, we should all be grateful.– Daniel Golson
      Steven Ewing/Roadshow
      Porsche MacanThe Porsche Macan is an outstanding midsize SUV. Porsche has already proven its EV prowess with the Taycan. It stands to reason, then, that a combination of the two should be pretty freakin’ righteous.While there’s still a whole lot I don’t know about the forthcoming Macan EV, I do know that it’s already in the works, and that it should arrive within the next year or two as part of the Macan’s generational overhaul.Moving the Macan to an electrified platform will be quite interesting for the segment as a whole. Will there be notable holdouts who continue to cater to gas-guzzling buyers, or will Porsche become a pioneer and set the course that everyone else follows? It’ll be an interesting few years to come.– Andrew Krok
      Rivian
      Rivian R1SThe R1S brings back the undeniably cool aesthetics of the Range Rover Classic with a modern twist and that’s a good thing. It’s also a reasonable size and the interior (at least on the prototype) is sensible and looks hard-wearing. That sensible thing is a big part of the attraction to Rivian, at least for me. There’s not much in the way of kooky concept stuff going on. It’s all practical and I could easily imagine living with one on a day-to-day basis.The R1S (and its R1T sibling) are exciting from an engineering standpoint. The way that Rivian has designed the battery pack and its enclosure as well as its ability to tank turn, etc., make it look like a beast off-road and also well-suited for bragging in the Whole Foods parking lot.– Kyle Hyatt
      Audi
      Audi E-Tron GTThough we’ve only seen the Audi E-Tron GT in concept form, it’s supposed to go into production by the end of 2020. The four-door sedan has quite a bit in common with the Porsche Taycan, which is a good thing, packing some slick looks and good dollop of performance.With a 90-kWh battery and pair of electric motors on each axle, Audi says the GT will pack a not-shabby-at-all 590 hp, capable of getting the four-door to 62 mph in 3.5 seconds. It’ll have wireless and 800-volt charging capabilities. When hooked up to the latter, it means adding 200 miles of range after just 20 minutes of charge time.And yes, I like the GT’s looks. The front end isn’t as rounded off as its Porsche counterpart with more defined lines. It’s hunkered down with a fast roofline and high beltline. The chunky taillights, meanwhile, have the Roadshow staff split. I personally think it looks all right but will reserve judgment until I see it in production form. — Jon Wong
      Volvo
      Volvo XC40 RechargeA compact SUV makes a lot of sense as an electric vehicle. It allows for better battery packaging without sacrificing passenger or cargo space. And as far as small SUVs go, the Volvo XC40 is definitely my favorite. That’s why I’m stoked about the upcoming XC40 Recharge.The XC40 Recharge will share a lot with its platform-sharing corporate sibling, the Polestar 2, and that’s no bad thing. It should be relatively quick, able to accelerate to 60 mph in less than 5 seconds, and with a low center of gravity and Volvo’s already-great chassis and steering tuning, hopefully pretty nice to drive. Plus, it’ll have the same modern, high-quality interior as the standard XC40, not to mention Google’s new Android Automotive infotainment system, which is some seriously sweet tech.No, it won’t have crazy driving range — I’m guessing low-to-mid-200-mile stuff — but that’ll be plenty for most buyers. More importantly, it takes solid EV tech and puts it in a usable, stylish, premium package. I could totally see myself in one of these as a daily driver.– Steven Ewing
      Nissan
      Nissan AriyaOne look at the original Leaf tells you everything you need to know about Nissan’s EV designers: they’re insane. And they’re at it again with the upcoming Nissan Ariya. The electric SUV seamlessly blends angular and organic elements to create a look that is sure to polarize. Then again, the best designs often do. Personally, I love that there are so many weird and smart details to discover around the body. Meanwhile, the cabin is deceptively simple with a minimalist dashboard and illuminated buttons that disappear when deactivated.With optional all-wheel drive, a low center of mass due to its battery pack and 50:50 weight distribution, Nissan has a pretty good jumping off point for tuning the EV’s ride and performance. Two battery sizes will be offered — 63 and 87 kWh — with the larger good for an impressive 300 estimated miles per charge.EV shoppers will soon be spoiled for choice with a number of compact electric SUVs hitting the market in the around-$40,000 range in 2021, including the Volkswagen ID 4, Ford’s Mach E, Audi’s Q4 E-Tron and more. More choice and competition for affordable EVs can only be a good thing for consumers and for pushing electric cars into the mainstream. The Ariya will arrive to the party with very competitive range and style that certainly stands far apart from the rest of the pack when it begins production in late 2021.– Antuan Goodwin

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      Hummer Electric Massive Tyres, Alloys Revealed in New Teaser Video

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      The fully electrified Hummer was earlier slated to be unveiled in May but GMC had to defer the plans due to the Covid-19 pandemic
      General Motors Company (GMC) had earlier this year shared the first teaser of electric Hummer. At the announcement of this project, GMC managed to make everyone take notice of this beast. To enter production next year, it will be offered in the form of an SUV as well as a pick-up truck.

      Now, the American auto giant has teased us with the electric pick-up truck once again with a rather peculiar functionality. The upcoming Hummer EV pick-up will be revealed in its full-form on October 20 with a special ‘Crab Mode’ function, something unheard till now.
      What’s this ‘Crab Mode’?
      This new Crab mode lets the vehicle move in a diagonal direction with the help of rear-wheel steering. This exclusive feature helps to turn all four wheels in the same direction so that the vehicle can move sideways. Apparently, this functionality enhances its already impressive off-roading credentials.
      [embedded content]
      GMC says that this particular function will increase the manoeuvrability of the vehicle. It will be interesting to see whether this one of a kind feature could come to use in parallel parking, given Hummer’s huge size. Also, as a bonus, the video also reveals the massive tyres and alloys design that will be on offer with production spec Hummer EV.
      Design
      The Hummer moniker has always been loved for its robust demeanor and enormous size. Many design elements of the IC engine Hummer will be carried forward to the Hummer EV. For instance the six slat vertical grille which gives an imposing figure to the Hummer EV. In the video, you can also see the EV with a removable roof. The interiors of the cabin haven’t been revealed yet but are expected to go a few notches higher in terms of quality of materials and features on offer.
      Performance
      Coming to its performance, the Hummer EV will be powered by the next generation 200kWh Ultium battery setup. This battery pack is expected to generate a humongous power of 1000 bhp and a mind-boggling torque of 15,592 Nm. Those are insane output figures. This heavy SUV/pick-up truck would take only 3 seconds for its 0-96 kmph sprint which easily puts it into the supercar vicinity.
      The Hummer EV pick-up truck will be revealed next month, almost a year ahead of its official launch. The SUV configuration of Hummer EV is also expected to be unveiled sometime soon. Upon its launch, Hummer EV pick-up will lock its horn against the Tesla Cybertruck which is also scheduled to be launched sometime next year. More

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      Kia's first dedicated electric car coming to US next year, plans 6 more this decade – Roadshow

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      Lots of EVs on the way.
      Kia
      Kia on Tuesday revealed more information about what it calls “Plan S.” That’s Kia speak for its roadmap to a largely electric future. While we already knew a total of 11 electric cars are in the works, we now know seven of them are meant for the US. The Korean automaker teased the seven future EVs in a basic design sketch, above, but the middle vehicle is the focal point.This vehicle, codenamed “CV,” will launch next year and mark Kia’s first dedicated electric car. So far, the brand has outfitted vehicles designed with an internal combustion engine with batteries and electric motors. The Niro EV and Soul EV (we have it on good authority the latter isn’t meant for the US any longer) aren’t dedicated electric cars. A vehicle designed from the start as an EV can execute its mission far better, most of the time. That’s not to say the Niro EV and Soul EV are poor cars, but the CV should package all of the zero-emissions powertrain gear far better. Indeed, Kia mentioned its Electric Global Modular Platform will provide “best-in-class interior spaciousness” for the upcoming EVs in their respective segments.

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      We can’t really tell what form the CV will take, since we only see the front view. It could be a sedan judging by this angle, but the greenhouse looks like it’s on the taller side. Perhaps it’s a hatchback. We just don’t know yet. If we’re taking a shot in the dark, the vehicle to the CV’s left is the next Niro EV. The car to its right appears sportier with a seriously short front overhang. The brand said it plans to spread these electric cars across “several” segments, so hopefully we don’t end up with a bunch of crossovers and SUVs.The cars come from a $25 billion investment Kia made into EVs earlier this year, but don’t expect them to all show up at once. The electric cars will gradually roll out through 2027.

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      Kia to Launch 7 New Electric Cars, SUVs by 2027 – Lineup teased

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      The first dedicated Kia electric vehicle codenamed CV will be launched next year in several international markets
      Kia Motors has just announced a battery electric vehicle blitzkrieg that will see the company introduce 7 new products globally by 2027. The South Korean automaker has teased its future BEV range via an image and from the looks of it, majority of them are going to be crossovers.
      Kia’s EV strategy

      The future Kia electric vehicle range will consist of products of different size and configuration to cater to a varied customer base. The company has also revealed that it will partner with several charging companies across the world.
      Since the introduction of its first electric vehicle in 2011, the Kia Ray EV, the company has sold over 100,000 EVs worldwide. With increased push for electrification, Kia is predicting that 25% of its total sales by 2029 will be accounted for by electric vehicles. In advanced markets like Korea, North America and Europe, the automaker is expecting EVs to contribute to 20% of total sales by 2025.
      Kia teases 7 new Electric Cars
      Seven new BEVs
      Of the seven new Battery Electric Vehicles teased, the first is set to be unveiled in 2021. Codenamed Kia CV, it will be the brand’s first dedicated BEV and it will be sold in several international markets. The new range of vehicles will be based on Kia’s new Electric-Global Modular Platform (E-GMP) which is claimed to offer best-in-class interior space.
      When it comes to body style, the new Kia electric vehicle range seems to comprise of at least 4 crossover SUVs of various sizes, a sportcars of sorts and a pair of compact hatchbacks/fastbacks. No further details have been furnished at this stage.
      Retail model
      In addition to launching new BEVs, Kia is also preparing to introduce new sales practices aimed at offering its EV customers diversified options. A new subscription model will be introduced apart from EV battery leasing and rental schemes. The company is also looking into ‘second-life’ battery related businesses to promote circular economy.
      Kia teases 7 new Electric Cars
      A marketing push for EVs of this magnitude will also warrant strengthening of after sales service operations to suit the new-age powertrains. To this end, Kia has announced that it will significantly increase the EV service bays at its dealerships across the world in the coming years in addition to developing its own service training programs.
      Will Kia BEVs come to India?
      With electric vehicle market slowly picking up in India, Kia would certainly be interested in bringing its future BEVs to our market. The key to success will be a rapid growth in the nation’s EV charging infrastructure. Meanwhile, the Kia Seltos and Sonet are expected to build a solid base for the brand in India. More

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      Maruti Solido, Espaco, Libertas Car Names For New SUV, MPV, Electric ?

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      Maruti Suzuki has planned slew of new car launches in India by 2022-23
      Providing a glimpse of what Maruti Suzuki’s portfolio might look like in the near future, trademark names of some of the company’s upcoming cars have been leaked online. The names revealed in the trademarks journal are Espaco, Libertas and Solido.

      All the names were filed by Maruti Suzuki India Limited (MSIL) on August 13 and approved on September 14. The trademarks are applicable for Class 12 products and the description reveals that the names are to be used for “vehicle; apparatus for locomotion by land, air or water”.
      Next-gen products or all-electric variants?
      It is possible that these new names could be used for all new cars and SUVs the company is planning to launch in the near future. There is a higher probability that these new names could be used for all-electric variants of Alto, Celerio and WagonR. The names come across as youthful and trendy and will go well with all-electric cars. Something like that will be really surprising, as bestselling products usually don’t go for a name change.
      Maruti Libertas
      At this stage, it would be too early to predict which new name will be used for which car. However, there’s no harm in a little guesswork. While Espaco and Libertas are entirely new names, Solido sounds similar to Solio, which is a mini MPV produced by Suzuki since 1997.
      Maruti Solido
      As Solio looks like a larger and more premium version of WagonR. It is possible that the new name Solido could be applied to the all-electric variant of WagonR. The name could also be given to the 7-seater WagonR MPV that Maruti is expected to launch in the coming months.
      Maruti Solido
      Other line of thought says that Solid could be an SUV. Considering that it has the word Solid in the name, which probably suits more to an SUV, than a hathback. Solido could be used for the Toyota-Maruti SUV, which will rival the Hyundai Creta and Kia Seltos. This is expected to be launched by 2022.
      Maruti ESPACO
      Similarly, Espaco could be the name of Toyota-Maruti MPVs electric version. As the name somewhat implies that the car has to do something with ‘space’ – it more suits an MPV. We all know that Toyota and Maruti are planning to launch an MPV in 2023, which will sit above the Ertiga in company line-up. This new next gen Maruti Toyota MPV could come in electric as well, and thus the name eSpaco.
      Maruti ESPACO
      Maruti continues to dominate the Indian auto industry with close to 50% market share in passenger vehicle (PV) segment. However, it cannot stay immune to the new challenges that are coming its way. Things can change pretty fast in the auto industry, as we have seen with new products such as MG Hector, Kia Seltos, Hyundai Venue, and Kia Sonet. We have already seen Maruti Brezza’s dominance in compact SUV space cut short with new rival products. Something similar can happen in other segments as well.
      The battle to dominate EV space
      If it wants, Maruti can emerge as a major player in the all-electric segment over the next 5-10 years. The company is yet to launch a product in this space, but considering its capabilities and wide dealer network, it could easily catch up with rivals. As of now, there are primarily three fully-electric cars in the Indian market – Hyundai Kona, MG ZS and Tata Nexon EV.
      All-electric WagonR could be launched as an affordable EV with decent range for city needs. The same applies to electric versions of Alto and Celerio. With cool sounding names such as Espaco, Libertas and Solido, Maruti could be on its way to create a new breed of bestsellers in the Indian automotive space. More