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    Mahindra XUV Electric SUV Steering Patent Leaks – Octagonal, 2-Spoke, Digital

    Mahindra XUV Electric SUV Steering PatentAn octagonal, 2-spoke format is in line with innovative steering wheel concepts being used with next-gen electric vehiclesMahindra is working on its next-gen EVs that will be underpinned by the INGLO platform. Some major design transformations have been seen with the concepts and the test mules spotted on the roads. Now, a design patent reveals that Mahindra’s upcoming EVs will also be getting a unique, sporty steering wheel.Mahindra XUV EV steering wheel detailsAt first glance, Mahindra XUV EV steering wheel seems familiar to that of Tata’s newer models. Especially the flat central section and the 2-spoke design. The steering wheel seen with Nexon and Nexon EV has an illuminated Tata logo. As the Mahindra EV steering wheel also has a flat central section, it is possible that it too could get an illuminated logo. However, there are no official details available at this point of time.Mahindra XUV Electric SUV Steering PatentOr, Mahindra could take a different approach by installing a small display in the centre. This could provide the driver easy access to critical information. The steering wheel has mounted controls on both ends. These could feature touch-sensitive buttons with haptic feedback.Overall, Mahindra XUV EV steering wheel has sporty aesthetics. It is something similar to the steering wheel seen with high performance sports cars and other luxury vehicles. The rounded octagonal shape has flattened top and bottom sections, something that will improve legroom for the driver. This will be especially beneficial in urban driving environments with heavy traffic. The unique shape of the steering wheel can also work to provide enhanced visibility of the instrument console.Mahindra XUV700 ElectricEnhanced ergonomics and safetyWhile the steering wheel has an attractive profile, it is also likely to offer improved ergonomics. This will be even more relevant for long journeys. The steering wheel should be able to provide adequate support to the driver’s hands. The flattened sides and dedicated grips should work to ensure optimal control with minimal effort. This can work to improve safety by allowing better control during emergency situations.Mahindra BE.05 EV Interiors SpiedMahindra XUV EV steering wheel will likely use advanced airbag systems that can deploy faster and work more effectively. We have already seen how Tata had worked on their new steering wheel and the challenges faced with integrating the airbag system. It is likely that a similar set of advanced techniques have been used for Mahindra EV steering wheel.Mahindra EV steering wheel – A key USPConsumer preferences are strongly in favour of sporty styling and hi-tech features. In that context, Mahindra EV steering wheel can emerge as a major attraction for the target audience. The steering wheel suits the futuristic design of Mahindra’s upcoming next-gen XUV.e and BE range of electric cars. As this design moves from patent to production, it will be interesting to see how it transforms the driving experience for Mahindra’s customers. More

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    Suzuki eWX Patented In India – 2025 WagonR Electric To Rival Tiago EV?

    Suzuki eWX Patented In IndiaWith a high level of localization, Maruti will be able to launch its entry-level EV hatchback at an affordable price pointAlthough late in the EV race, Maruti Suzuki is currently stepping up focus in the electric segment. Maruti’s first electric car will be the eVX compact SUV, planned for launch in 2025. Another key project is the eWX, an affordable electric car that will take on the likes of Tata Tiago and MG Comet EV.Suzuki eWX patented in IndiaUpcoming eWX electric hatch was showcased last month at the 2024 Bangkok Motor Show. Suzuki has now filed the design patent for eWX in India. The overall design is largely the same as the model that was unveiled last year. In Suzuki’s terminology, the eWX is referred to as an EV miniwagon. It has a quirky, attractive profile, with the tallboy design similar to that of WagonR.Suzuki eWX Patented In IndiaExteriors boast of unique features such as rectangular LED lighting elements on top and vertically positioned ice cube LED headlamps. Suzuki eWX has a prominent front bumper with hexagonal detailing. The lighting setup design format at the front has been copied at the rear in most parts.Other key highlights include thick body cladding and smooth body panelling. The sheet metal across the bonnet and doors is largely flat, which helps achieve a clutter-free profile for the electric hatch. This is in line with the minimalistic approach being used for designing EVs across the globe. Dimensionally, Suzuki eWX is 3,395 mm long, 1,475 mm wide and 1,620 mm tall.Suzuki eWX InteriorsOne of the features that instantly grabs attention is the use of neon yellow highlights. Suzuki eWX has these eye-catching accents on the front bumper, alloy wheels and the windows. Overall, eWX design seems to be a seamless integration of various rounded rectangular shapes. While being unique, this design format also comes across as being friendly and lively.Suzuki eWX InteriorsMaruti Suzuki eWX interiorsExperimentation with rounded rectangular shapes continues on the inside. It is evident across the dashboard, the horizontally positioned integrated infotainment and instrument screens and the control hub located between the front seats.Doors and seats also follow the same design approach. Even the steering wheel comes in a unique rounded squarish design. The neon yellow theme has been extensively used across the dashboard, doors and the seats. Interiors are largely minimalistic and focus on ensuring roominess and comfort.Suzuki eWXMaruti eWX range, launch date, pricingeWX tech specs have not been revealed. Concept eWX was showcased with a claimed range of 230 km. It is possible that the production model could get a longer-range version as well. Talking about the launch date, Maruti eWX could take a couple of years to reach showrooms. It could be launched in the financial year 2026-27.With a high level of localization, Maruti should be able to launch the eWX electric hatch at a starting price of around Rs 10 – 12 lakh. Prices could be even lower, as battery packs are getting cheaper with each passing year. Large scale production will also help reduce overall costs. More

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    Toyota Hilux Electric Launch Confirmed In 2025 – Fortuner EV Next?

    Toyota Hilux ElectricToyota will initially produce the electric Hilux only For Thailand; other markets could be covered laterAs compared to other carmakers, Toyota hasn’t voted for a dramatic shift to electric vehicles. Instead, Toyota has been focusing on hybrid cars. It’s the company’s belief that market share of electric cars will never go beyond 30 percent. Even when much of the ecosystem is chasing a zero-emission future.Electric Hilux debut in 2025But that doesn’t mean Toyota has entirely shunned electric vehicles. Even when not as aggressive as other brands, Toyota’s EV plan is progressing in the desired manner. One of Toyota’s upcoming EVs is Hilux Revo BEV, which will be launched in 2025. Electric Hilux will be assembled in Thailand and sold exclusively in Thailand initially.Toyota Hilux ElectricToyota can consider export opportunities at a later date. Information about the upcoming electric Hilux was recently confirmed by a company executive. Thailand seems like a relevant choice, as there’s significant demand for pickup trucks in that country.More than half of all cars sold in Thailand are pickup trucks. This presents a significant opportunity for Toyota. Rival offerings such as the upcoming electric Isuzu D-Max could also have necessitated the introduction of electric Hilux. The electric Isuzu D-Max will also be assembled in Thailand.Toyota Hilux ElectricElectric Hilux – Specs, rangeToyota had earlier stated that the electric Hilux will have a range of around 200 km. The test cycle used for determining the range was not mentioned. A range of 200 km seems quite low, but it’s a common issue with electric pickups. A higher range will require a larger battery, which in turn can limit the pickup’s load carrying capacity. Manoeuvrability and practicality issues can also arise with a large battery pack used in a pickup truck.Toyota Hilux ElectricWith the new-gen ICE Hilux expected to debut in 2025, it is likely that the electric Hilux will be based on the new-gen model. However, there is no official confirmation from Toyota. New-gen Hilux can be better equipped to support advanced features that electric vehicles generally have.Across South American markets, the new-gen ICE Hilux will debut in 2026. It is possible that Toyota may introduce both new-gen ICE and electric versions of Hilux simultaneously in 2025. Based on the same platform, Toyota is likely to launch Fortuner Electric in the future.Toyota Hilux ElectricOther upcoming Toyota pickupsEarlier in 2021, Toyota had showcased a pickup truck that looked similar to the Tacoma. At the 2023 Japan Mobility Show, an EPU concept was showcased. It had a unibody construction and was dimensionally similar to the Fiat Toro. At the same event, Toyota had also unveiled a small IMV-0 concept. This was presented as a small modular electric pickup truck.Toyota is already using the IMV-0 platform in several countries. Although, it currently comes with combustion engines and is sold as the Hilux Champ. The name was recently registered in Brazil. It presents the possibility of production in Argentina. Hilux Champ shares several components with the standard Hilux.Source – Reuters More

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    Maruti EVX Electric SUV Spied Next To Brezza, Seltos, HyRyder, XL6

    Maruti EVX Electric SUV SpiedMaruti Suzuki’s Electric SUV eVX Spotted Testing on Public Roads – Launch in 2025In an exciting development for electric vehicle enthusiasts, the Maruti Suzuki Electric SUV eVX has been spotted undergoing road tests. The latest spy shots reveal the vehicle’s imposing road presence as it shares the streets with popular models like the Kia Seltos, Maruti XL6, Maruti Brezza, and Toyota HyRyder. Latest spy shots are credited to automotive enthusiast Sandeep from Rushlane Spylane.Maruti EVX Electric SUV SpiedThe Maruti Suzuki eVX, which stands for Emotional Versatile Cruiser, is an electric vehicle designed and developed by Suzuki Motor Corporation. The SUV is built on a ground-up all-electric platform, which will serve as the foundation for future electric vehicles from Maruti Suzuki. The company has committed a substantial investment of Rs 100 billion for the production of these electric vehicles and their batteries, signaling a significant shift towards sustainable mobility.Maruti EVX Electric SUV Spied next to XL6The eVX is characterized by its muscular stance and dimensions, measuring 4,300mm in length, 1,800mm in width, and 1,600mm in height. The design includes a long wheelbase with short overhangs, providing a spacious and comfortable cabin. It is likely to deliver an impressive driving range of 400-500 kilometers on a single charge.The spy shots, although heavily camouflaged, hint at the SUV’s robust design elements. The eVX features a horizontal hood, high seating stance, large alloy wheels, and elevated ground clearance. Signature LED lighting at the front and rear, a closed-off grille, projector headlamps, sloping DRLs, and prominent wheel arches are expected to enhance its visual appeal and aerodynamic efficiency.Maruti EVX Electric SUV Spied next to BrezzaIt also has a decent road presence, as can be seen in the spy shots. Inside, the eVX promises class-leading comforts and conveniences, along with state-of-the-art connectivity features, catering to the modern driver’s needs. Detailed spy shots of the interiors of EVX were discussed in the previous post.Maruti EVX Electric SUV Spied next to SeltosLaunch and RivalsUpon its launch, the Maruti Suzuki eVX will compete directly with the upcoming Hyundai Creta EV, both planned for launch in 2025. The eVX is expected to be priced in the Rs 20 lakh range, making it a competitive option in the growing electric SUV market.Maruti EVX Electric SUV Spied next to HyRyderMaruti Suzuki eVX, with its promising specifications and cutting-edge features, is poised to make a significant impact on the electric vehicle market in India. Maruti Suzuki aims for a comprehensive testing phase to ensure the eVX meets market-specific requirements and performs well under various Indian weather conditions. The vehicle’s production will take place at Maruti Suzuki’s Gujarat plant, marking a significant milestone in the company’s journey towards electrification. More

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    BYD Seal X Homologated – Production Version Of Ocean-M Concept

    BYD Seal X HomologatedBased on the recently showcase Ocean-M Concept, BYD Seal X is a handsome-looking pure electric hatchback, larger than MG4 EVElectric car juggernaut, BYD, is set to expand its product portfolio with a bunch of new vehicles. One of them is the BYD Seal X, which is the production-spec version of Ocean-M Concept recently showcased at Beijing Auto Show. The car was recently homologated by Chinese MIIT and it could emerge as a very important product for BYD.BYD Seal X HomologatedRecently revealed by Chinese MIIT (Ministry of Industry and Information Technology), BYD Seal X is homologated as a pure electric sedan. Because it has Seal in the name, it falls under BYD’s popular Ocean lineup accompanied by Seagull and Dolphin, among others. BYD Seal lineup currently has Seal 06, Seal EV, Seal DM-i, and Seal U (a.k.a BYD Song Plus).Initial speculations suggest the ‘X’ in BYD Seal X may be a variable nameplate placeholder. This is because the homologation declaration by Chinese MIIT had nameplates like Seal 06GT, Seal MINI and Seal 05EV. For the time being, let’s just call the recently homologated vehicle, BYD Seal X.Overall design is very handsome and looks like an extension of BYD Seal EV. At the front, we like the new headlights with a wrap-around effect. BYD logo proudly sits between these headlights. Front bumper is all new with pronounced boomerang-shaped air ducts. The lower grill opens outwards and in the middle, gets a radar module for ADAS features.BYD Seal X RearAt the side, front quarter panel has a stylised plaque similar to BYD Seal EV. ORVMs, flush-mounted door handles and the design patterns on side running board look similar to BYD Seal too. Wheels and overall silhouette of Seal X is unique and pays tribute to Ocean-M Concept on which it is based.Hatchback style design is more evident at the rear and we have a flatter tailgate. Tail lights are connected in a black plaque. Rear bumper gets a black finish. Unlike the BYD Seal, there is no rear diffuser with BYD Seal X. Rear bumper is kept black to cut down on visual mass and overall rear design lends a sporty appeal.Specs & hardwareBYD Seal X measures 4,630 mm in length, 1,880 mm in width, 1,490 mm in height and has a 2,820 mm long wheelbase. Wheels are 18-inchers wrapped with 225/50-R18 tyres and can be opted to have 19-inch wheels too. Both RWD and AWD variants will be on sale. Single motor variant will have 214 bhp and dual motor variant will pack 416 bhp.BYD Seal X FasciaThe homologation document also shows a mid variant with 308 bhp as well. Battery size is unknown, but they’re BYD Blade cells sourced from FinDreams (Lithium Iron Phosphate chemistry). BYD Seal X might go on sale in the coming months. India launch could be on the cards, but nothing can be said for certain.Also read – BYD Seal EV First Drive Review More

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    Mahindra BE.05 EV Interiors Spied – Electrifying Acceleration On Ghats (Video)

    Mahindra BE.05 EV Interiors SpiedAmong the five INGLO-based SUVs showcased, Mahindra BE.05 EV is likely to be the most popular owing to its expected size and pricingStrategies for Mahindra’s electric vision have been unfolded in the past couple of years. The Indian auto giant is launching five new electric SUVs based on its born electric INGLO platform. Most affordable of these five is BE.05 which is poised to be the most flamboyant compact electric SUV in India or even the world.Mahindra BE.05 Production Interiors SpiedFor the first time ever, we got a sneak peek at the upcoming Mahindra BE.05’s interiors thanks to automotive enthusiast Amanjot Singh Dua. Mahindra is currently testing BE.05 along with XUV.e8 and XUV.e9 for varied altitudes, temperatures and terrains. So, test mules have been spotted in both deserts as Himalayan mountains.Mahindra BE.05 EV Interiors SpiedWhile there have been innumerous sightings of BE.05’s exteriors, this is the first time production-spec interiors have been leaked. We can see a lot of similarities with Mahindra BE.05 concept showcased at M.A.D.E headquarters in UK. At the event, Mahindra promised most design highlights to be carried over to production model.The company is staying true to its word. Overall layout of BE.05’s interiors looks very similar to its concept. A pronounced split with Bronze finish between driver and passenger lends a cockpit-like feel. Design elements like the twin-spoke hexagonal steering wheel along with a vertical bronze strip at the top and touch and toggle steering controls stay true to its concept.Mahindra BE.05 EV Interiors SpiedIn the centre console, dial from the concept is retained. It might control terrain modes or drive modes. There might be a yacht-like dedicated gear selector and electronic parking brake in this area too. We can also see three digital sliders that could be used to control volume or interior lighting brightness or sunshade or sunroof.Mahindra BE.05 EV Interiors SpiedCar’s interiors were riddled with testing equipment, wires, hose pipes and whatnot. Another notable element we can grasp from BE.05’s interior is frameless IRVM that we saw with newly launched XUV 3XO and white leatherette upholstery with perforations that are likely to have ventilation function.Altitude testing and overtaking in Leh LadakhBE.05 is currently under altitude testing too and has been spotted trundling along the highway between Leh and Kargil. Thanks to automotive enthusiast Lakshmi Prasad, we have a glimpse of Mahindra BE.05’s instant and electrifying acceleration as it overtook a truck in the twisties.[embedded content]There is a good possibility of it being the higher-spec dual motor AWD variant. Battery capacity could be around 60 kWh+ and will feature a single-motor version as well. When launched, it will rival the likes of MG ZS EV, Hyundai Creta EV, Maruti Suzuki eVX and its arch-rival is the upcoming coupe-styled Tata Curvv EV.BE.05 is likely to be the volume generator (among INGLO-based EVs) for Mahindra owing to its sheer design and segment positioning. It is the smallest among all XUV.e and BE vehicles showcased and will appeal to masses. It has wild written all over its design and looks futuristic and aggressive with a massive road presence. More

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    2025 Kia EV6 Facelift Debuts – Bigger Battery, Sharper Design, India-Bound

    2025 Kia EV6 Facelift DebutsThe new 2025 Kia EV6 facelift brings iterative updates in design, powertrain and equipment, while packing a bigger batteryKia’s critically acclaimed EV6 has been detrimental in establishing the brand as a high-performance electric car manufacturer for enthusiasts. We have to note that EV6 is Kia’s foray into electric mobility solutions and is a big deal. So, the 2025 Kia EV6 facelift debuts ahead of launch, is an important launch for the brand. Let’s take a look.2025 Kia EV6 Facelift DebutsIf there was one vehicle that put Kia on the global electric vehicle map, it has to be EV6. Offered in RWD and AWD along with a high-performance GT trim, Kia EV6 has managed to appeal to both sensible buyers and thrill-seekers alike. The car’s sleek and crossover design is well-received and is eye-candy.2025 Kia EV6 GT-LineThe new MY25 Kia EV6 builds on these attributes and emerges as a fitting replacement to an iconic vehicle that started Kia’s electric mobility journey. However, this is a mild mid-life journey and the design changes are more evolutionary than revolutionary.Most prominent of these design changes include a refreshed fascia. The eyebrow-like LED DRLs of current model have been replaced with much sleeker and stylistic C-shaped elements that lend a sporty aura. Base EV6 Air and mid-spec EV6 GT-Line feature slight design differences for distinction.[embedded content]Where Air gets a Tiger Nose grill, GT-Line gets a connecting LED bar in the middle. Starmap adaptive LED headlights are now sleeker and blend in well with overall design of both trims. GT-Line gets a slightly more sportier front bumper, for added aggression. Air gets a choice of 19-inch and 20-inch alloy wheels, while GT-Line gets unique 20-inch alloy wheel designs.At the rear, there are hardly any changes with a few nip and tuck measures here and there. Where the rear bumper on EV6 Air looks a little sober, GT-Line spruces things up quite nicely. We should expect more aggression with top-spec GT trim whenever it breaks cover.2025 Kia EV6 AirNew and bigger batteryOn the inside, we get a new 2-spoke steering wheel with off-set Kia badge on Air model, while GT-Line gets a sportier 3-spoke steering. New here, is an electric adjustment with steering column. Dual 12.3-inch displays running ccNC UI are positioned in a new housing. Other than these, there are very few changes with dashboard, centre console and door trims continue as they were.Safety features include up to 10 airbags, Highway Driving Assist Level 2 semi-autonomous driving software, updated smartphone as a key feature, remote Smart Park Assist function with diagonal parking support and a built-in dashcam. The new 84 kWh battery is a nice upgrade from the old 77.4 kWh unit and promises upto 494 km range in South Korean testing.2025 Kia EV6 InteriorDespite the increase in battery size, Kia claims 0 to 80% charge in 18 minutes from a 350 kW DC fast charger. Single motor RWD configuration comes with 225 bhp peak power and 350 Nm peak torque, while dual-motor AWD config promises up to 320 bhp peak power and 605 Nm peak torque.Also read – Hyundai Ioniq 5 facelift debuts with larger battery More

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    New Bajaj Electric 3W Launch Planned To Take On Cheap e-Rickshaws

    Image for illustration onlyRajiv Bajaj has announced plans to launch an affordable electric 3W which will rival unbranded Rickshaws made from illegal import kitsBajaj Auto, a global leader in the manufacturing of 3-wheelers (3Ws), stands as a cornerstone in India’s automotive landscape, excelling in both the two-wheeler (2W) segment within the passenger vehicle (PV) space and the 3W segment within the commercial vehicle (CV) arena.Bajaj’s Affordable Electric Rickshaw ProjectRenowned for its pioneering strides in electric 3Ws, the company is now embarking on a mission to create a more accessible electric 3W platform, with the aim of steering Indian consumers away from unbranded import kits and towards safer, more reliable options.Image for illustration onlySpeaking with CNBC TV18, Rajiv Bajaj, the MD of Bajaj Auto, confirmed the company’s ongoing efforts to develop an affordable electric 3W vehicle. This vehicle, envisioned as a versatile platform, holds the promise of spawning multiple body styles in the future, catering to a diverse range of consumer needs.As a key player in the global 3W market, Bajaj feels a sense of responsibility to drive the segment forward in the right direction. Mr Bajaj emphasizes the substantial market potential of the electric rickshaw sector, estimated at approximately 50,000 to 60,000 units. However, he expresses concerns regarding the dominance of cheap, unbranded products comprising imported kits, which often fail to meet safety standards, posing significant risks on the road.Recognizing this market niche as a lucrative opportunity, Bajaj is committed to developing an affordable offering that matches the pricing of unbranded electric rickshaws while surpassing them in terms of quality and safety. The primary target demographic for this initiative, according to Bajaj, is North India, encompassing regions such as Delhi, Uttar Pradesh, Bihar, and others.While Bajaj may not currently have a foothold in this specific segment, Rajiv Bajaj hints at an impending unveiling. When questioned about a potential launch timeline, he suggests that the introduction of this budget-friendly electric 3W from Bajaj is imminent, promising a transformative impact on the Indian electric vehicle market.Bajaj’s Venture into Affordable Electric TransportationNotably, the company has made significant strides in offering a robust portfolio of Compressed Natural Gas (CNG) 3Ws, which have gained popularity both in the Indian market and in various export destinations.Bajaj has also made notable inroads into the realm of electric 3W mobility solutions, gaining considerable momentum in the process. Presently, the company offers the EV RE electric 3W rickshaw (also known as a tuk-tuk) and the Maxima XL Cargo, both powered by the E-TEC 9.0 powertrain, featuring an 8.9 kWh battery. For those seeking greater power and capacity, Bajaj also offers the Maxima XL Cargo with the E-TEC 12.0 powertrain, boasting an 11.8 kWh battery.In terms of pricing, the Bajaj EV RE E-TEC 9.0 starts from Rs. 3.65 lakh, while the Maxima XL Cargo E-TEC 9.0 begins at Rs. 4.04 lakh, and the Maxima XL Cargo E-TEC 12.0 starts from Rs. 4.5 lakh (all prices ex-showroom). These competitive prices underscore the pressing need for an affordable electric 3W rickshaw in the market.Source More