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    VinFast VF e34 Spied In India – Creta EV, Curvv EV, Maruti eVX Rival

    Vinfast VF e34 Electric Car SpiedRenowned EV maker VinFast will likely enter India via CBU route and later transition to local manufacturingWith the Indian EV market expected to register strong growth in the coming years, a number of overseas brands are lining up their respective offerings. Earlier this year in February, VinFast commenced construction plans to set up its integrated EV manufacturing facility in Tamil Nadu with a ground breaking ceremony. Initially, two models will be launched – VF e34 and VF 5.VinFast VF e34 spied in IndiaWhen Vinfast VF e34 was first spotted in India, it had no camouflage. But this time around, Vinfast has thoroughly hidden the identity of their test mule. However, the distinct design language of Vinfast is immediately evident. Recent spy shots were taken by automotive enthusiast Avinash Anushe in Pune’s Ravet area, Maharashtra state.Vinfast VF e34 FasciaExterior profile of VinFast VF e34 is largely the same as that of the Vietnam-spec model. VinFast VF e34 has sleek LED headlamps, top-mounted DRLs, boomerang-style fog lamp housings and a prominent bumper. Body panelling is smooth and curvy, something that should help achieve a low drag coefficient.Side profile is distinguishable with thick body cladding, 5-spoke design alloy wheels, door claddings, body-coloured door handles, chrome window garnish and body colour pillars. ORVMs have cameras, indicating the presence of 360° surround view and blind spot monitering. At the rear, the SUV has edgy taillamps in a wraparound and connected format.[embedded content]Overall, VinFast VF e34 has a simple, yet elegant design. It measures 4,300 mm in length, 1,768 mm in width and 1,615 mm in height. Wheelbase is 2,611 mm. VinFast VF e34 will compete with the likes of the upcoming Creta EV, Curvv EV and Maruti eVX.VinFast VF e34 InteriorsWhile interiors have not been revealed in the spy shots, it is expected to be largely the same as that of the Vietnamese model. The SUV has a 10-inch vertically positioned touchscreen infotainment system and a 7-inch full colour instrument cluster. VinFast VF e34 has ventilated fabric seats, air filter, USB ports, Wi-Fi connection, keyless entry, Android Auto and Apple CarPlay.Vinfast VF e34 FrontA comprehensive range of safety features are available. There is tyre pressure monitoring system, 6 airbags, occupant status detection and rear parking camera. ADAS kit includes rear cross-traffic alert, adaptive cruise control, blind spot detection, rear parking assist, time fencing, remote vehicle location, intrusion alert and self-diagnosis.VinFast VF e34 – Performance, rangeIn Vietnam-spec model, power is sourced from a 41.9 kWh LFP battery pack. It connects to a front-mounted single electric motor that generates 150 hp and 242 Nm. Drive modes of Eco, Comfort and Sport are available. VinFast VF e34 can accelerate from 0 to 100 km/h in less than 9 seconds and has a top speed of 130 km/h. Certified range is 318.6 km as per NEDC standards. With a fast charger, VinFast VF e34 can achieve 10% to 70% charge in around 27 minutes.Vinfast VF e34 RearVinFast will shift to local manufacturing when its India plant is ready. However, it is possible that the battery packs will still be imported from Indonesia. From its plant in Tamil Nadu, VinFast will cater to export markets as well. The VF 5 sub-4-meter compact electric SUV will also be manufactured at the same facility. VinFast VF 5 will take on rivals such as Tata Nexon EV and Mahindra XUV400. More

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    MG Intelligent CUV Spied – India’s First Crossover Utility Vehicle Launch Soon

    MG Intelligent CUV SpiedWhere product positioning is concerned, JSW MG Motor is pitting their upcoming premium EV as an ‘Intelligent CUV’JSW MG Motor JV has announced a product offensive in India and aims to populate its portfolio with intelligent NEVs (New Energy Vehicles). The company intends to recreate the Maruti moment in India with at least 1 new vehicle launch every three to six months. First of these vehicles from MG is termed as an ‘Intelligent CUV’ as seen with the recent spy shots.MG Intelligent CUV Spied – What is a CUV?The company’s electric portfolio in India is currently populated with Comet EV at the lower end of the spectrum, followed by ZS EV. MG seems to be eying the premium electric vehicle segment and is developing India’s India’s first ‘Intelligent CUV’.New MG Electric HatchbackThe same term has been spotted on the side of the company’s upcoming premium electric vehicle test mule. MG is positioning their upcoming electric vehicle as an Intelligent CUV. Where CUV stands for Crossover Utility Vehicle.Considering that MG has begun to use its marketing terms and looking at increasing frequency of test mule sightings, one can speculate that the launch is nearing. Say, around the festive season, perhaps? MG intends to redefine premium electric vehicle experience in India with their upcoming Intelligent CUV.MG Intelligent CUVWhat to expect?Looking at the test mule, MG has taken greater strides to cover it up with camouflage. Even the wheels get camouflage to hide its aero design. This upcoming electric vehicle is likely to take the ‘Excelor EV’ name that has been recently trademarked.Where design is concerned, this vehicle looks like it is a large hatchback. However, the company might incorporate a few crossover elements with this vehicle to fit into the Indian market. Length could be between 4.3m and 4.5m and we should expect a lot of space on the inside.MG Intelligent CUVLooking at the silhouette, MG Intelligent CUV has a large glass area all-around and the front windshield is steeply raked for better aerodynamics. There are quarter glasses at the front and rear for better visibility too. Owing to its premium positioning, there will be a large panoramic sunroof as well.On the inside, we can expect soft-touch materials and good overall fit and finish, in typical MG fashion. A large free-standing touchscreen infotainment screen, fully digital instrument screen, minimal centre console, electronic parking brake, circular steering control pods, circular rear AC vents, and others are spotted attributes.MG Intelligent CUVWhere powertrains are concerned, MG Intelligent CUV may be powered by the same battery and motor as MG ZS EV. This means around 50 kWh battery with around 500 km promised range and a 175 bhp and 280 Nm single motor, driving the front wheels. There is a good probability that MG might launch their upcoming Intelligent CUV around the festive season.MG Intelligent CUV More

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    Electric Car Sales May 2024 – Tata, MG, Mahindra, Hyundai, Kia, BYD, Mercedes, BMW

    Tata Punch EV – Car MarvelTata Motors electric car sales have reported a 15.5% decline YoY in May 2024 – MG has posted a staggering growth of 210%Electric car sales in India in May 2024 saw a marginal decline of 1.24% on a YoY basis while MoM sales escalated by 3.01%. Total sales last month stood at 7,638 units, a decline over 7,734 units sold in May 2023 while sales were significantly higher when compared to 7,415 units sold in April 2024.Electric 2W Retail May 2024 YoY and MoMOf a total of 7,638 units of electric cars sold last month, Tata Motors captured a major share of 66% with 5,083 units sold in May 2024. For the company, this may have been a 15.54% YoY decline when compared to 6,018 units sold in May 2023 however, MoM sales however grew by 2.56% from 4,956 units sold in April 2024. Tata Motors has the highest number of electric cars on sales among which are Tiago, Tigor, Punch and Nexon priced from Rs 7.99-19.49 lakh (ex-sh). The company now gears up for launch of the Curvv EV along with the Harrier EV, Sierra EV and Avinya EV.Electric Car Sales May 2024MG Motor was at No. 2 with 1,441 units sold last month, a 210.56% YoY growth from just 464 units sold in May 2023. The company’s electric lineup includes the Comet and ZS EV which are priced from Rs 6.99-25.2 lakh. The company witnessed a 19.78% MoM growth from 629 units sold in April 2024.With its single offering in this electric car segment, Mahindra has seen a 44.62% improvement in sales of its XUV400. Sales grew to 564 units in the past month from 390 units sold in the corresponding month last year but fell by 10.33% on a MoM basis. The company plans expansion in this segment and recently the XUV700 EV has also been sighted on test. Mahindra has also announced investment of Rs 12,000 crore in the EV business over the next three years.Electric Car Sales May 2024 – YoY ComparisonPosting an 11.64% YoY and 18.12% MoM growth in its Seal, E6 and Atto3 electric car sales, BYD India has seen increased demand for these models which are priced from Rs 29.15-53 lakh (ex.sh). Hyundai sales dipped 43.56% YoY but improved by 12.94% MoM to 96 units. The company sells the Kona and Ioniq5 in this segment both of which are priced from Rs 23.84-45.95 lakh (ex.sh). Hyundai Creta EV is set to enter production by the end of this year and is likely for launch in January 2025. Citroen sales fell both on YoY and MoM basis by 73.46% and 32.81% to just 86 units while there had been 324 units sold in May 2023 and 128 units sold in April 2024.Electric Car Sales May 2024 – MoM ComparisonBMW Claims Top Spot Among Luxury BrandsThere was a reshuffle in the electric luxury segment. Mercedes Benz, which was the best-selling OEM in April 2024, lost its position to BMW in May 2024. BMW sales were at 72 units last month, while the company experienced a 4% YoY de-growth, sales improved by 33.33% on a MoM basis. BMW sells four products, i7, iX, i4, iX1, in this segment, all priced between Rs 67-250 lakh (ex.sh).Mercedes sales on the other hand grew by 200% YoY from 19 units sold in May 2023 to 57 units in May 2024. MoM sales fell by 55.47% over 128 units sold in April 2024. The Mercedes EV portfolio, which currently includes the EQB and EQE SUVs along with the EQS sedan, are all priced from Rs 74.5-245 lakh (ex.sh). Lower down the list was Volvo with 35 units sold last month resulting in a 22.22% YoY and 7.89% MoM de-growth. Audi (6 units) and Porsche (2 units) both suffered severe YoY and MoM decline.Kia India also saw its YoY sales decline by 55.32% to 21 units of EV6 sold during the past month, though there was a 5% MoM improvement over 21 units sold in April 2024. Kia EV6 is priced from Rs 61-66 lakh. There were others in this segment that added just 12 units to total sales, a 45.45% YoY and 29.41% MoM de-growth. More

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    China’s Chery Exeed Platforms to Power Future Jaguar Land Rover Electric Cars

    Future JLR EVs to be built on China’s Chery platformJLR is following other Western legacy car manufacturers to source platforms for their next-gen vehicles from Chinese OEMsYou must have seen Land Rover’s official teasers of the new all-electric Range Rover testing in extreme conditions. The company claims it will be the quietest Range Rover ever made, owing to the obvious advantages of an electric powertrain. Now, it is revealed that, JLR’s (Jaguar Land Rover) future EVs will be based on platforms sourced from Chinese carmaker Chery.Jaguar Land Rover And Chery – The long-standing partnershipIt is a known fact that JLR and Chery have a long and fruitful partnership, mainly in the Chinese market. Both brands entered a partnership in 2012 and have been co-producing vehicles. The two companies even share a car manufacturing facility in China that has been manufacturing cars from 2014.Super Hybrid Platform By Chery To Be Used On Jaguar Land Rover CarsIn a major move by Tata Motors owned JLR and Chery Group owned Exeed, the joint venture is now extended where JLR will use two of the potent platforms developed by Exeed for their future vehicles. As confirmed by Yin Tongyao, president of Chery Group, JLR will be their new platform recipient. JLR will source Exeed’s M3X and E0X platforms.As per the agreement, JLR will be able to freely use both platforms on their next-gen vehicles that could be launched under Range Rover, Discovery and Defender umbrellas. M3X is locally also called T2X and it supports both traditional ICE powertrains and even PHEV (Plug-In Hybrid Electric Vehicle) powertrains.Electric Range RoverWhat are these platforms capable of?This very platform, touted as ‘Super Hybrid’ in a few Chery cars like Exeed RX PHEV, Chery Fulwin T9 and others, is capable of achieving nine operating modes, 11 gear combinations, over 1000-km range, and a thermal efficiency of 44.5%. All this, with the help of an IC engine and two electric motors paired to the world’s first gearbox to adopt two electric motors.The other modular platform that JLR is sourcing from Chery Group owned Exeed is the E0X, which was co-developed with Huawei. This platform is suitable for both EVs and EREV (Extended Range EVs) hybrids and incorporates an 800V architecture. With 12 kWh/100 km consumption rating, air suspension, advanced autonomous driving and attributes, it is fit for high-end vehicles with range extenders.Currently, E0X platform underpins Chery Group vehicles like Exlantix ES, Exlantix ET, Luxeed S7, and Luxeed R7. These platforms could fill in the blanks where JLR is currently lacking, which is new energy vehicles.JLR’s move to source Chinese platforms might prove shocking to many. However, it is a more widespread phenomenon than one might think. Auto giant, Volkswagen, has announced XPeng’s platform. Audi is sourcing SAIC’s platform. Brands like Lotus, Smart and Volvo are using Geely’s platforms and Renault is sourcing Chinese technology for its upcoming Twingo too.Source More

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    2024 Tata Punch EV Safety Rating – 5 Stars

    2024 Tata Punch EV crash tested by Bharat NCAP2024 Tata Punch EV Safety Rating: BNCAP’s First Small Electric Car Safety Test – Driver SafetySafety ratings for the TATA PUNCH.EV have been announced by BNCAP today. Adult Occupant Protection scores 31.46 out of 32, nearly perfect. The Frontal Offset Deformable Barrier Test results in 15.71 out of 16, showing strong front-end collision resilience. Side Movable Deformable Barrier Test scores 15.74 out of 16, indicating excellent side-impact protection.Child Occupant Protection achieves 45.00 out of 49. With Child Restraint Systems in use, Dynamic score for the TATA PUNCH.EV is maxed at 24.00 out of 24. This measure reflects the vehicle’s stability and control during crash simulations. CRS Installation Score is perfect at 12.00 out of 12, ensuring child restraint systems are securely and effectively installed. Vehicle Assessment Score reaches 9.00 out of 13.2024 Tata Punch EV crash tested by Bharat NCAPTata Punch EV – Frontal crash protectionTested on the TATA PUNCH.EV EMP+ S LR variant, this small car weighs in at 1626 kg. Safety ratings apply to all listed variants for transparent assessment of protection across the range.Frontal crash protection features include standard driver and passenger airbags, with no rear airbags. Belt pretensioners and load-limiters are standard for the front seats. Knee airbags are unavailable, focusing protection on vital areas. Side crash protection is attained with the standard side head curtain airbags for all occupants. The vehicle also includes side chest airbags for front occupants, and no side pelvis airbags.2024 Tata Punch EV crash tested by Bharat NCAPTata Punch EV Child ProtectionChild protection in the TATA PUNCH.EV includes ISOFIX anchor points in the rear outboard seats. The passenger benefits from a manual airbag cut-off switch. Safety assist technologies bolster protection, with ESC meeting UN GTR No.8/UNECE R140 AIS-133 standards.2024 Tata Punch EV crash tested by Bharat NCAPPedestrian protection is standard, adhering to AIS-100 regulations. This technology minimizes injury risks in collisions with pedestrians. Seat belt reminders (SBR) comply with AIS-145, alerting occupants to buckle up. These reminders are standard for the driver, front passenger, and rear passengers, promoting consistent seat belt use.Safety Assist in Tata Punch EVAssessment in April 2024 confirms the applicability of safety ratings across various TATA PUNCH.EV variants. These include SMT LR ACFC, SMT + LR ACFC, ADV LR ACFC, ADV S LR ACFC, and more. Each variant ensures standardised safety assist technologies.[embedded content]Safety Assist Technologies (SAT) Standard fitments include ESC, a Side Head Protection System, Pedestrian Protection System, and Seat Belt Reminders. Technological advancements in vehicle safety are a standard requirement today. Compliance with regulatory standards like AIS-197 and UNECE R140 help with reliability. Certified and standardized safety features in our cars are the need of the hour.Also Read – Tata Nexon EV Scores 5 Star Safety Rating In Bharat NCAP 2024 More

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    2024 Tata Nexon EV Safety Rating – 5 Stars

    Tata Nexon EV crash test – Bharat NCAP 20242024 Tata Nexon EV Safety Rating: BNCAP’s First Compact Electric Car Safety Test – Driver SafetyWhat’s the 2024 Tata Nexon EV Safety Rating? The compact car in the first EV in the segment to be tested by BNCAP. Gross vehicle weight stands at 1816 kg. Driver safety in the TATA Nexon EV includes multiple airbags.Frontal airbag, side head curtain airbag, and side chest airbag come standard. Belt pretensioners and load-limiters also enhance driver protection. Knee and side pelvis airbags are not available as si true with the segment.Tata Nexon EV crash test – Bharat NCAP 2024Tata Nexon EV Passenger SafetyPassenger safety mirrors driver protection with similar standard features. Frontal, side head curtain, and side chest airbags. Belt pretensioners and load-limiters are standard for passengers too. The absence of knee and side pelvis airbags aligns with the design strategy prioritising critical safety areas.Rear seat safety emphasises child protection. Standard ISOFIX anchor points support outboard seats, facilitating secure child seat installation. Rear passengers benefit from side head curtain airbags with focus on primary crash protection.Tata Nexon EV crash test – Bharat NCAP 2024Safety Assist in Tata Nexon EVSafety assist technologies include Standard Electronic Stability Control (ESC) . This caters to vehicle stability during critical manoeuvres. Pedestrian protection systems and seat belt reminders for all seats further demonstrate a comprehensive approach.[embedded content]TATA Nexon EV’s ratings applicability specifies the variants it’s applicable to. The Long Range (LR) including CRE, EMP and EMP DK, and FEA and FEA DK. Medium Range (MR) variants include CRE, EMP, FEA for transparent safety evaluations.Why Safety Matters in EVs – Tata Nexon EV Safety RatingWhy is safety a priority cars/EVs? The importance of crash protection in vehicles manifests itself as a safety badge. Incorporating features like airbags, ESC, and pedestrian protection meets laid out crash test standards. Indian government says, the future is electric.Tata Nexon EV crash test – Bharat NCAP 2024Evaluating the safety equipment a car reveals its strengths and areas for improvement. Understanding the impact of standard safety assist technologies is crucial. ESC enhances vehicle control, while seat belt reminders ensure occupants’ safety. These technologies reflect the integration of essential safety features, aiming to reduce accident risks and impact, and enhance occupant protection.Hence, integrating key safety features and assist technologies is a reliable protection approach. And needs to match evolving standards of vehicle safety expected from electric vehicles. Tata Nexon EV BNCAP 5 star rating entails a score of Adult Occupant Protection (AOP) 29.86/ 32 and Child Occupant Protection (COP) 44.95/ 49. Adult Occupant Protection scores are rated as follows – Frontal Offset Deformable Barrier Test: 14.26 out of 16.00; Side Movable Deformable Barrier Test:15.60 out of 16.00. Child Occupation Protection is rated at 44.95/ 49.00.Also Read – Tata Punch EV Scores 5 Star Safety Rating In Bharat NCAP 2024 More

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    Tata Curvv, Harrier EV, Sierra EV, Avinya – Launch Timelines Officially Revealed

    2025 Tata Sierra RenderAiming for 4-6% jump in market share, Tata Motors will introduce new models across both ICE and EV segmentsTata Motors has drawn up aggressive plans to boost its market share over the next 2-3 years. From the existing market share of around 14%, the goal is to achieve an increase of around 400-600 basis points. Tata’s upcoming new car launches will play a key role in achieving that target.Tata new launches – Curvv and Harrier EVSome of the upcoming new Tata cars will be available in both ICE and EV formats. A relevant example is Curvv, which is expected to debut during FY24-25. Curvv EV and diesel variants will be launched first. Petrol option is expected to be added at a later stage.Tata Curvv and Nexon CNG Spied Testing TigetherICE Curvv will challenge popular compact SUVs such as Hyundai Creta, Kia Seltos, Maruti Grand Vitara, Toyota Hyryder, Honda Elevate, Skoda Kushaq and Volkswagen Taigun. Curvv EV will take on the upcoming Creta EV, Maruti eVX and Toyota’s rebadged version of eVX.In the mid-size SUV segment, Tata is working on the petrol and EV versions of Harrier. Both these models are expected to be launched by the financial year ending March 31, 2025. Harrier is currently offered with only a 2.0-litre diesel engine. It generates 170 PS and 350 Nm. Transmission choices include 6-speed MT and 6-speed AT.Tata Harrier EV spied in PuneTata Harrier EV will be underpinned by the new Acti-EV architecture. This is already in use with Punch EV. Harrier EV is expected to get a 60-kWh battery pack, with a range of around 500 km. It will have a dual-motor setup and AWD system. Harrier EV will primarily rival the upcoming electric version of Mahindra XUV700. The latter will go on sale as XUV.e8.Tata Sierra design patent leaksSierra EV and Avinya models expected in FY26Similar to Harrier EV, the upcoming Sierra EV is expected to get a dual-motor setup and an electric all-wheel drive system. Tata Motors has already filed a design patent for Sierra EV. A number of design features have been borrowed from the original ICE Sierra that was in production from 1991 to 2003. At a later stage, Tata could introduce an ICE powertrain for the new Sierra.Tata’s flagship EV brand will be Avinya. It will spawn multiple new electric cars, underpinned by JLR’s EMA platform. With Avinya, Tata will be able to make its entry into the premium EV segment. Tata Avinya will have a range of more than 300 km. It will be equipped with a comprehensive range of premium features.Tata Safari EV Testing ContinuesEV-exclusive showrooms, charging network expansionTata’s upcoming electric cars will be one of the key growth drivers. To improve customer experience, Tata is focusing on expanding its EV-exclusive showrooms and charging network. More than 50 EV-exclusive showrooms will be launched over the next couple of years. Tata currently operates two EV-exclusive showrooms. Tata’s charging network is also set to witness a major leap. From the current 10,000, the number will be increased to 1 lakh charging stations by FY30. More

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    New Hyundai Inster EV Teased With 355km Range – Punch EV Rival?

    Hyundai Inster EV TeasedHyundai Inster EV is not confirmed for India, but similar powertrain might make its way to upcoming Exter EV and rival Punch EVElectric cars are currently gaining popularity in India and is among the priorities for most car manufacturers. Hyundai seems to be diving in at the idea with Creta EV, speculated to be launched in early 2025. What about the A-segment where faster adoption of E-mobility makes more sense? Recently teased Hyundai Inster gives us an idea.Hyundai Inster EV Teased – Design and AppealEver wondered what an electric version of Hyundai Casper would look like? Hyundai just gave us the answer in the form of Inster EV. If you’re wondering if Exter means outdoorsy adventure lifestyle and Inster means something to be driven inside the city, that would be wrong. In fact, Inster name has nothing to do with Exter at all.Hyundai Inster EV NameAccording to Hyundai, Inster name is inspired by the words “intimate” and “innovative”, combined with Casper name, the vehicle on which it is based. As of now, Casper is Korea only and Hyundai is tight-lipped about the intended markets for the recently teased Inster EV.Hyundai Inster EV Casper’s SilhouetteCasper was first introduced in 2021 and the upcoming Inster will carry a similar silhouette as seen in Hyundai’s teaser image. Inster will get a unique fascia, but is reminiscent of Casper. We can see a similar bonnet, windscreen and overall side silhouette. Charging port is at the front, but not centred, like in Punch EV.Hyundai Inster EV Vs CasperInster boasts new pixel-style quad-element circular LED DRLs and pixel-style 7-element LED turn indicators too. Tail lights get a pixel effect as well. Alloy wheels of Hyundai Inster look unique, though. Just like Casper, Inster will come equipped with crossover bits like roof rails, body cladding and reasonably high ground clearance.According to Hyundai, INSTER is poised to set new standards in driving range and technology, and safety features. Speaking of range, company has revealed that Inster will do 355 km (WLTP) on a single charge. Battery and motor specs were not disclosed.Hyundai Inster EV FasciaShould Hyundai launch it in India?India has been embracing e-mobility solutions at a decent pace. More companies have been exploring EVs today, than they ever did, in India. Hyundai is one of the companies selling electric cars in India. Soon, the company will explore electric mobility solutions in the mainstream segment.Currently, Hyundai Kona price starts from Rs. 23.84 lakh (Ex-sh) and Creta EV, when launched, is likely to start upwards of Rs. 16 lakh (Ex-sh). Lion’s share of India’s electric car sales is from smaller electric vehicles like Punch EV, Tiago EV and MG’s Comet EV. So, targeting this space is paramount for any OEMs to push more volumes.Hyundai Inster EV Charging PortEven though the South Korean brand has not confirmed Inster for India (yet), it makes perfect sense. Inster’s crossover design looks miles better than Exter launched in India and it would naturally target Punch EV, which is currently the hottest EV in mainstream segment. Or, the powertrain from this Inster EV will be similar to what we will get in Exter EV in the future. Or Kia Clavis EV or Syros EV.Hyundai Inster EV LED DRLs More