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      Mahindra XUV400 EV Facelift Based On XUV 3XO Incoming? New Variants Homologated

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      Image for illustration onlyWhen launched, Mahindra XUV400 EV facelift will continue to rival MG ZS EV and Tata Nexon EV LR and the likesNew homologation documents filed by India’s de facto SUV manufacturer, Mahindra, sparks a few interesting questions. The company is on the verge of launching a new trim lineup for its electric offering, XUV400. Currently, we only have two trim levels – EC Pro and EL Pro. These will be replaced with a newer trim hierarchy.Mahindra XUV400 EV Facelift Incoming?Mahindra has homologated a new trim hierarchy with its electric offering XUV400. Currently, XUV400’s current trim hierarchy has EC Pro and EL Pro. Mahindra is keeping the EC and EL main trim levels intact. But the Pro suffix has been dropped in favour of new characters.Mahindra XUV400 EV New Variants HomologatedIn effect, EC will get L, L(O) and LL variants, while EL will get LL(O), LH, LH(O), PH and PH(O). Mahindra XUV400 EC L is the base variant, whereas EL PH(O) seems to be top-spec variant. Dimensions remain the same as current model. Launch timeline for the new trim hierarchy is not known yet.If you have been following developments from the house of Mahindra, you must be aware of the fact that the company updated XUV400’s trim hierarchy just a few months ago. So, why change their mind regarding trim hierarchy in just three or four months? Homologations are tedious affairs.Mahindra XUV 3XO Panoramic sunroofWhy though?Mahindra is likely to be facelifting XUV400 with the recently launched XUV 3XO’s design and styling. Now, the updated trim hierarchy makes a lot of sense as the company seems to be spreading out the excessive features seen on XUV 3XO in many variants to offer varied pricing with upcoming XUV400 facelift.Will get new Interiors with soft touch materials, L2 ADAS, panoramic sunroof, and more from XUV 3XO aboveInterestingly, Mahindra is retaining XUV400 name and not replacing it with XUV 4XO as they did with XUV300. That’s because Mahindra doesn’t have XUV 4XO trademark. The new naming scheme only has odd numbers in them (XUV 5XO and XUV 7XO) and XUV400 is not one of them. Expect XUV700 facelift to be named XUV 7XO.Where design is concerned, Mahindra XUV400 facelift will be almost identical to XUV 3XO, only slightly longer and a lot more proportionate. Fascia with large LED DRLs, 17-inch wheels, rear connected LED tail lights, Level-2 ADAS, panoramic sunroof, soft-touch plastics and other recently added attributes from XUV 3XO will be carried over to XUV400 facelift.Powertrains-wise, Mahindra XUV400 facelift gets around the same 34.5 kWh and 39.4 kWh batteries as before. There seems to be a sole 150 PS electric motor. Smaller 34.5 kWh battery is sourced from LG Chem, while larger 39.4 kWh battery has two sources, one being LG Chem and the other is Farasis.Also read – Mahindra launched XUV700 Blaze Edition More

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      Kia EV3 Compact Electric SUV Teased Ahead Of Global Debut

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      Kia EV3 Compact Electric SUV – Concept Vs Production Model TeasersWhere dimensions are concerned, Kia EV3 compact electric SUV might be positioned between Sonet and Seltos at around 4.2m lengthWith ambitions to be recognised among the leading electric car manufacturers of the world, Hyundai and Kia have been pushing the envelope for some time now. The duo’s efforts reflect in their born electric portfolio. Newest of the bunch is Kia EV3 which is set to be globally unveiled on May 23rd, 2024. Ahead of that, Kia has officially released teasers to give a glimpse of its upcoming eSUV. Kia EV3 Compact Electric SUV TeasedNot so long ago, Kia officially revealed EV3 and EV4 concepts. While EV3 is an electric SUV, EV4 takes a different route and is a crossover electric sedan-style vehicle. Production-spec EV3 has been teased by Kia for the first time. EV3 is highly likely to make its way to our shores. When launched, it will be positioned below Kia EV6 in brand’s electric portfolio.Kia EV3 TeasersThe EV3’s exterior design is showcased in the teaser images, highlighting its bold, geometric, and robust aspects. The vehicle’s dynamic styling is also emphasized in these images. Kia EV3 boasts boxy rear fenders, tailgate, and signature Star Map lighting contributing to a unique identity.Comparing to the Kia EV3 concept, we can see slightly redesigned LED headlights and DRLs at the front. However, rear seems to have been carried over as they were in the concept. The sculpted body adheres to Kia’s trademark ‘Opposites United’ design philosophy. The same design language can be seen in other Kia cars including their flagship EV9.Kia EV3 TeasersIncorporating innovative technologies, Kia aims to broaden its EV range to include affordable options for the masses and that is where EV3 seems to blend in. Kia has promised a comprehensive range of equipment with EV3. On the inside, we can expect eco-conscious attributes and a similar minimal design theme as EV6.What to expect from Kia EV3?A lot is riding on Kia EV3’s success. Kia aims to deliver an elevated customer experience derived from its flagship models into compact SUV segment where EV3 will fall. Considering that Kia is calling EV3 a ‘compact SUV’, we expect it to be slightly larger than Sonet and slightly smaller than Seltos at around 4.2m length. Think Mahindra XUV400.Kia EV3 TeasersAt this size quotient, we can expect relatively affordable pricing. This way, EV3 is set to accelerate faster transition to EVs and play a crucial role in expanding company’s reputation as an electric car manufacturer for the masses.Kia EV6 will be launched later this year and is expected to go on sale immediately. World premiere is later this month on May 23rd, 2024. We can expect around 150 bhp motor drawing power from a 40 kWh to 45 kWh battery pack promising around 400 km to 500 km range on a single charge.New Kia EV3 Concept New Kia EV3 Concept More

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      New MG Electric Hatchback Spied While Charging At A Hotel In Agra

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      New MG Electric HatchbackAcross international markets, MG Cloud EV is sold under the Wuling brand in Indonesia and as the Baojun Yunduo in ChinaPost the JV between MG Motor and JSW Group, the new entity has envisioned a major product onslaught for the Indian market. There are plans to launch new models every 3 to 6 months in India. Electric vehicles will be among the focus areas. One of the new upcoming products is the MG Cloud EV.MG Cloud EV spied in India – Key featuresWith its curvy, aerodynamic profile, the MG Cloud EV is naturally pleasing to the eyes. Furthermore, the unique design appeals to folks who are looking for exclusivity. Some of the key highlights include polygonal headlamp housings with automatic LED lights, full-width LED light strip on top and an appealing mesh-type lower grille.New MG Electric Hatchback – Cloud EVHat tip to automotive enthusiast Samarth Agarwal for the images. Side profile is distinguishable with blacked out B and C pillars, dual-tone rear view mirrors with integrated turn signals, unique 18″ Ferris-shaped alloy wheels and flushed door handles. At the rear, MG Cloud EV has eye-catching connected tail lamps, rear defogger and a powered tailgate.Dimensionally, MG Cloud EV is 4,295 mm long, 1,850 mm wide and 1,652 mm tall. It has a wheelbase of 2,700 mm. That’s slightly shorter than Ertiga’s 2,740 mm, but longer than Renault Triber’s 2,636 mm wheelbase. MG Cloud EV is underpinned by the E260 EV platform. There’s plenty of boot space (606 litres with Wuling Cloud EV), which can be further increased with the rear seats folded.New MG Electric Hatchback – Cloud EVMG Cloud EV – InteriorsWith intelligently designed interior spaces, MG Cloud EV offers ample legroom and headroom for all passengers. While the equipment list can vary from country to country, one can expect the India-spec model to offer a comprehensive range of comfort and convenience features.MG Cloud EV RearSome of the key highlights include soft touch interiors and ergonomic synthetic leather seats. There’s sofa mode with a 135° backseat recline, a large 15.6 TFT infotainment system and a fully digital instrument console.Other key features include rear AC vents, 360° surround-view camera system, digital AC with PM 2.5 filter, power windows and steering-mounted controls. There’s a wireless charger, keyless entry and smart start system and USB ports. A cocooned drive experience is guaranteed with a comprehensive range of safety features including ADAS. Users also have access to a wide range of connectivity features.MG Cloud EVMG Cloud EV – Range, performanceAcross international markets, MG Cloud EV is offered with two powertrain options. The one equipped with a 37.9 kWh battery pack has a range of 360 km. The higher-spec variant has a 50.6 kWh battery pack, offering a range of 460 km. MG could offer both options in India to target a larger segment of users.Upcoming MG Cloud EV will be using lithium iron phosphate batteries that will supply power to a permanent magnet synchronous motor. The EV will be available in front wheel drive format. MG Cloud EV could be launched later this year or sometime next year. It is expected to be offered at a starting price of around Rs 15 lakh.MG Cloud EV More

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      Piaggio Ape Electric Rickshaw 3W Subscription Model Launched – 30k Down Payment, 8k EMI

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      Piaggio Ape Electric Rickshaw 3W CargoPiaggio’s new Battery Subscription Model makes 3W EV ownership even more attractive and highly affordable by eliminating upfront battery costThe recent announcement by the Government of India with regard to electric vehicle subsidy has upset the segment. An earlier Faster Adoption and Manufacturing of Electric (and Hybrid) Vehicles-II has been replaced by Electric Mobility Promotion Scheme 2024 (EMPS), which offers lower subsidies for both electric 2Ws and 3Ws when compared to the earlier FAME-II scheme, which expired on March 31, 2024.Piaggio Ape Electric at Rs 2.59 Lakh Plus Battery RentPiaggio is a well known entity in the electric three wheeler electric segment, scoring high in sales each month ahead of Bajaj Auto, Mini Metro and Unique International. They have now brought in a special scheme that will appeal to buyers of its Ape Electric electric three wheelers. This battery subscription model aims to revolutionize three wheeler ownership with more affordability by separating upfront cost of the vehicle from the cost of the battery.Piaggio Ape Electric Rickshaw 3W PVBuyers of the Piaggio Ape Electric can now make their purchases at Rs 2.59 lakh (ex-showroom). They can then subscribe to Piaggio approved battery pack at a monthly rent via the company dealership. While the chassis and powertrain are registered in the name of the customer, allowing them to avail loan facilities. Such an option will allow buyers to own electric vehicle without the stress of battery cost, maintenance, battery life span and replacement expenses.Piaggio dealerships offer these batteries to customers at a monthly rent for a lease period of 120,000 kms or 8 years for its cargo movers and at 150,000 kms or 8 years for passenger vehicles. On reaching the designated mileage, there is no more monthly rent to be paid. Piaggio also takes on the full onus of battery health even in the case of long term ownership. This special battery subscription module also includes battery replacement at the same amount of rent following the initial lease period.Piaggio Ape Electric Rickshaw Subscription Model Launched In 30 CitiesPiaggio Battery Subscription Model across 30 Indian CitiesThe Piaggio Battery Subscription Model has been introduced initially across 30 Indian cities. These include Gurgaon, Agra, Warrangal, Raipur, Mathura, Nizamabad, Nagpur, Lucknow, Kurnool, Bangalore, Kanpur, Anantpur, Tumkuru, Allahabad, Vijaywada, Mysore, Delhi, Guntur, Kolar, Noida, Vizag, Mumbai, Ghaziabad, Chennai, Ahmedabad, Greater Noida, Hyderabad, Pune and Faridabad. It requires no added documents from customers while buyers are given the liberty to unsubscribe from this program or sell their vehicle as they desire without any binding to the subscription scheme.Speaking on this special battery subscription model, Mr Diego Graffi, Chairman and MD Piaggio Vehicles Pvt Ltd said, “Piaggio India has a long history of prioritizing customer satisfaction through innovative products and solutions. The industry-first ‘Battery Subscription Model’ removes another barrier to EV adoption by addressing battery concerns and offering a cost-effective ownership option. We are confident this model will sustain EV growth in a post-subsidy environment.”Piaggio Ape Electric Rickshaw SpecsMr Amit Sagar, Executive Vice President – CV Domestic Business at Piaggio Vehicles Pvt Ltd has also stated that, “Customer can now own an electric 3W at down-payment of Just INR 30,000 and an EMI of INR 8,000 per month which makes it as easy to own as compared to 3W CNG. Battery Subscription model will bring in a new wave of EV adoption in the industry. Our initial interaction with channel partners and consumers makes us believe that we have a winner. We believe that the model will also continue the EV adoption in a post subsidy world ensuring that customers and manufacturers get the best from the massive EV opportunity.” More

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      Maruti Ignis Electric 200 Kmph Top Speed – Fastest Indian Modified EV

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      Maruti Ignis Electric does 200 kmphPune based Northway Motors demonstrates 200 km/h top speed on EV converted Ignis indicated by car’s original speedoIgnis from Maruti Suzuki has been one of the cute little vehicles on sale in India. This car is the entry portal into their premium Nexa experience. Ignis is not exactly shattering sales charts and is currently maintaining sub 3K units. So, nothing interesting, right? But what if we told you someone converted it to run on electricity and made it go 200 kmph? Not so boring now, is it?Maruti Ignis Electric ModifiedIndia’s four-wheel juggernaut, Maruti Suzuki is known for its small and affordable hatchbacks that are easy on the wallet. While there are many Maruti cars following this ethos sold through Arena dealerships, there is only one for Nexa dealerships, the Ignis. With steady sub 3K sales, Ignis is currently India’s 11th best-selling hatchback.Maruti Ignis Electric does 200 kmphBut for Maruti Suzuki, sub 3K sales puts it at the bottom parts of the charts and is 13th best-selling Maruti car. For Pune-based Northway Motors, however, Maruti Ignis was a good donor car to retrofit one of their EV conversion kits. The company specializes in Retrofit EV conversion kits for Tata Ace, EV products and sales, custom OEM products and energy storage solutions.We’re not sure whether Northway Motors used the same EV conversion kit designed and developed for Tata Ace (Rs. 2.75 lakh excluding vehicle) or a custom solution. Regardless, the result is quite fascinating. As seen in the video, we can see a Maruti Suzuki Ignis converted to run on electric power donning green number plates.[embedded content]This EV conversion on Ignis is for R&D only and is tested in a controlled environment on a dynamometer and not on public roads. The conversion is done on a top-spec Ignis Alpha and the car gets green-painted alloy wheels to show its green credentials. Or to match the green registration plates.Maruti Ignis Electric does 200 kmphIgnis 200 kmph!As seen in the video, Northway Motors’ Maruti Ignis electric modified version is powered by a battery and a motor. EVs sold by almost every single OEM are equipped with a single-speed gearbox. Northway Motors, however, seems to have kept Ignis’ 5-speed gearbox for torque optimisation.Maruti Ignis Electric by Northway MotorsThe dyno run of this EV-converted Ignis shows good performance across all five pre-determined gear ratios. The headline figure of 200 km/h top speed is shown on the car’s original speedometer. Even if there is a variance, this is still impressive as it reveals the benefits of running a conventional gearbox with EVs as they tend to have a ratio close to 1 in their top gears or even an overdrive ratio. For OEMs, incorporating a conventional gearbox is more expensive, complicated and heavy. But for EV conversions, this could prove to be a good direction. More

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      Toyota Unveils Two New EVs – Launch Expected In 2025

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      Toyota BZ3C UnveiledShowcased at the 2024 Beijing Auto Show, the BZ3C and BZ3X EVs will be manufactured by FAW Toyota and GAC Toyota, respectivelyAs part of its plans to expand its EV portfolio, Toyota is working on two new EVs – BZ3C and BZ3X. These are expected to be launched in China next year. While powertrain details have not been revealed, enthusiasts were able to explore the exteriors and interiors of these EVs at the Beijing Auto Show.Toyota BZ3C – An urban marvelAs may be recalled, the BZ3 name was announced in China in October 2022. It was planned to be Toyota’s first electric sedan. The powertrain for BZ3 was to be developed via a joint collaboration between Toyota and BYD. With the BZ3C now unveiled, it appears that the original name has been transferred for a new line of EVs.Toyota BZ3C ProfileToyota BZ3C is essentially the production version of BZ Sport Crossover Concept that was showcased at the 2023 Shanghai Auto Show. Remarkably, there are very few changes in BZ3C in comparison to the concept. Most of the features have been retained, although some trimming may be done in the production model.As of now, only a few features have been changed. For example, side view cameras seen with the concept have been replaced with more conventional rear-view mirrors. Also, the lower lip at the front is not as sharp as seen in the concept model.Toyota BZ3C InteriorsBZ3C InteriorsBZ3C’s front fascia looks absolutely stunning with a full-width, C-shaped light cluster and a curvy, sculpted bonnet. Some of the features have similarities with Prius, such as the sleek, elegant bumper. Both the BZ3C and BZ3X are equipped with Lidar mounted on the roof. BZ3C has a crossover design and feels like an electric version of Toyota C-HR.Side profile is quite impactful with large, low-drag alloy wheels and flush door handles. At the rear, the prominent spoiler lip adds to the EVs sporty persona. The lighting setup at the rear is similar to that at the front.Toyota BZ3C DashboardInside, BZ3C has a mesmerizing racy red theme. It is accentuated with yellow LED lighting across the dash, doors and central console. There’s a large touchscreen infotainment system and a digital instrument cluster. BZ3C will be manufactured by FAW Toyota, a joint venture between China-based FAW Group and Toyota.Toyota BZ3X UnveiledToyota BZ3X – Classic eleganceBZ3X is essentially the production version of BZ FlexSpace Concept that was unveiled last year. As compared to the BZ3C, the BZ3X has more conventional vibes. It makes a powerful street presence and seems to focus on space and utility. The relatively sober profile indicates that this model could be closer to production.Toyota BZ3X ProfileSome of the key highlights of BZ3X include full-width LED DRLs on top, lower mounted LED headlamps and prominent bumper. Side profile has thick body cladding, large spoke-styled alloy wheels, flush door handles and blacked-out roof and pillars. At the rear, key highlights include a full width lighting setup and chunky bumper.Toyota BZ3X InteriorsInside, BZ3X gets a large touchscreen, a compact instrument cluster and a massive sunroof. The BZ3X EV will be manufactured by GAC Toyota. It is a joint venture between China-based GAC Group and Toyota.Toyota BZ3X Dashboard More

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      Honda Ye S7 And Ye P7 Real-World Images Out – Electric Compact SUVs

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      Honda Ye S7 and Ye P7 UnveiledBoth Honda Ye S7 and Ye P7 are similar where hardware is concerned and are largely the same vehicles, but differ in stylingFirst real-world images of Honda’s newest Ye eSUV lineup for China have been revealed from the stage. These cars were recently unveiled and are expected to go on sale in China by the end of 2024. These vehicles feature an almost identical profile along and interiors while differing in fascia and rear section for unique stylistic propositions.Honda Ye S7 And Ye P7 Real-World Images OutRemember Honda e:NS2 and e:NP2 concept vehicles that Honda showcased at 2023 Shanghai Auto Show? They were supposed to evolve into production-spec models by mid 2024 and launch by the end of 2024. Right on time, Honda has translated e:NS2 and e:NP2 concepts into Ye S7 and Ye P7 electric SUVs respectively.Honda Ye S7 FasciaHonda Ye S7 RearDesign themes from showcased concepts have successfully made it to production-spec vehicles. In this sense, Honda Ye S7 gets a much more sporty design and appeal with arrow-like Y-shaped DRL elements at the front and back. Just like e:NS2 concept. Horizontal slats in lower grill and connecting LED DRL from e:NS2 have made it to Ye S7 as well.Wheels from concept vehicle have made it to production too, which is a 5-spoke design with punched-in-like cut-outs. Instead of ORVMs, we get cameras. Door handles are flush to the body. to increase aerodynamic efficiency. Overall silhouette is quite strong and adheres to tough SUV aesthetics with a slight sloping roofline.Honda Ye P7 FasciaHonda Ye P7 RearWhere Ye S7 positions itself as the sporty offering, Ye P7 appears to be far more sophisticated, mature and premium. While side profile and wheel designs are identical, fascia and rear section differ vastly. Ye P7 sticks to classic Honda design elements with a thick bar connecting the headlights. Just like in e:NP2 concept.Headlights and tail lights get C-shaped LED elements that look nice and premium. Lower grill is a lot more conservative and finished in gloss black. Rear tailgate is different from what we saw in Ye S7 and is less angular and a lot more soothing. Same goes for roof spoiler rear bumper and other attributes. New Honda logo and illuminated HONDA lettering on front fenders were common between the two.Honda Ye S7 profileHonda Ye P7 profileFresh new interiorHonda Ye S7 and Ye P7 have the same interiors but different finishes and colour schemes. While Ye S7 gets white on a light grey colour scheme, Ye P7 gets a darker colour scheme that exudes sportiness. The three-spoke steering wheel gets HONDA lettering in the middle. Overall layout is smart.There are two displays for rear view camera feed – one on each door. The instrument screen is sleek and wide, lending a sportscar vibe, whereas the centre infotainment screen is massive. We like the new design direction that Honda’s interiors are taking. Except for the larger display and fewer buttons, this is a well-thought-out cabin.Honda Ye S7 InteriorHonda Ye P7 InteriorBuilt on W platform, Honda is offering both single-motor RWD and dual-motor AWD layouts with batteries from CATL. It has to be noted that Ye S7 is sold by Dongfeng Honda and Ye P7 is sold by GAC Honda. Both are China-only as of now with possibilities to break out of the dragon land in the future.Also read – Honda Amaze scored 2 Stars in GNCAPYe S7 Image source Ye S7 Image source More

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      BYD Ocean M Hot Hatch Concept Debuts – Launch Likely From $20k (Rs 17 L)

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      BYD Ocean M Hot Hatch. Images – BYD FanExpected to be available for sale in China in Q3, the production version will take on rivals such as MG4 and Volkswagen ID.3At the Beijing Auto Show, BYD has taken the wraps off the Ocean M hot hatch concept. With its sporty profile and an extravagant body kit, the concept looks absolutely stunning. Post launch in China, the production model is likely destined for European markets.BYD Ocean M Concept – Key FeaturesSome design elements that are an instant draw include the massive splitter at front, large sill extensions, GT3-style diffuser and high-rise rear spoiler. The production variant won’t be getting these features, but still, the electric hatchback will continue to have a significantly attractive profile.BYD Ocean M Hot HatchOcean M concept’s front fascia seems to derive inspiration from the Lamborghini Aventador. But such similarities may be diluted in the production version. The same could be true for the camera-based door mirrors, at least for the base variant. The rising waistline adds more dynamism to the hatch and enhances its road presence.Ocean M’s aerodynamic body panelling, sleek headlamps with integrated LED DRLs, sporty alloy wheels, thick body cladding, flush-type door handles and blacked-out roof and pillars make the electric hatch a wondrous looking car. At rear, the EV gets funky wraparound tail lamps with interconnected LED panelling in a pleasing wave format.[embedded content]While interiors have not been revealed, one can expect the electric hatch to offer a comprehensive range of premium features. Some of the key features could include a large touchscreen infotainment system, a digital instrument console, dual-tone interiors, vegan leather seats, etc.BYD Ocean M Hot HatchIt also gets panoramic sunroof, premium sound system, wireless charging and wireless Android Auto and Apple CarPlay. With Europe on the target, BYD will ensure that Ocean M gets 5-star ratings in Euro NCAP crash tests. Safety kit will include a comprehensive range of advanced features including ADAS.BYD Ocean M specs, performanceIn the company’s lineup, BYD Ocean M will be placed between the Dolphin hatch and Seal sedan. Speculations suggest that the production model will spawn a hot hatch version as well. It will be equipped with a rear-wheel drive setup.BYD Ocean M Hot HatchBYD has stated that Ocean M will be based on a new electric architecture. Existing popular BYD cars like Dolphin and Seal are based on e-Platform 3.0. The new platform for Ocean M could be the next-gen e-Platform 4.0. Improvements are expected around aesthetics, safety, efficiency and intelligence.While powertrain options have not been revealed, BYD Ocean M will be fun to drive. However, BYD could be focusing more on range rather than going after the best-performer tag. Just like other BYD cars, the Ocean M will be offered at a competitive price point. While BYD-Tesla battles are often highlighted, BYD is also focused on ending the ICE age. The production version of Ocean M could be launched in the price range of $20,700 to $27,600 (Approx. Rs 17.24 lakh to Rs 22.98 lakh). More