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      Force Gurkha Electric Launched In UK (Rs 53 L) By MW Motors – Thar EV Rival

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      Force Gurkha Electric launched in the UKCzech automotive startup MW Motors’ Spartan EV 2.0 utilizes Force Gurkha’s chassis and bodyshell, while the electric powertrain is entirely newFor folks who want the G-Wagen experience at an affordable price point, Czech-based automotive startup MW Motors has launched the new Spartan EV 2.0. It is a new-gen version of the original Spartan EV that was based on a Russian military 4×4 model named UAZ Hunter. Spartan EV 2.0 is available in the UK at a starting price of £49,995 (approx. Rs 52.86 lakh).Spartan EV 2.0 design and featuresExteriors of Spartan EV 2.0 are largely the same as Force Gurkha. It includes the round LED headlamps with circular DRLs, prominent bumper with fog lamps, flared wheel arches, rectangular ORVMs, roof rack and running boards. At rear too, the vertically positioned tail lamps, bumper and roof ladder are the same as Force Gurkha. There’s a rear mounted spare tyre as well.Force Gurkha Electric launchedColour options for Spartan EV 2.0 are the same as Force Gurkha. There are five basic options of bright orange, army green, grey, white and red. Talking about some of the unique features of Spartan EV 2.0, the electric SUV gets a closed-off grille. A new set of alloy wheels have been used.Spartan EV 2.0 interiorsInside too, there are a number of similarities with Force Gurkha. It includes the design of the AC vents, steering wheel and the climate control dials. The outline of the 7-inch touchscreen and the instrument console seems familiar to that of Force Gurkha. However, Spartan EV 2.0 has a fully digital instrument console. The infotainment system is also likely to have a different OS.Force Gurkha Electric launchedSpartan EV 2.0 specs, range, performanceAt 4,116 mm long, Spartan EV 2.0 can be highly agile and maneuverable. Ground clearance is 200 mm and wading depth is 700 mm. The SUV has a gross weight of 3,375 kg and can carry a load of 1,025 kg. Towing capacity is 3,000 kg. Cargo storage space at the rear is 1,718 litres. In terms of off-roading capabilities, Spartan EV 2.0 has approach angle of 38° and departure angle of 35°.Spartan EV 2.0 is equipped with a 61.1 kWh Lithium-ion battery, connected to a permanent magnet synchronous motor. It generates 177 PS of max power and 1,075 Nm of peak torque. The SUV offers a range of 150 miles (approx. 241 km). Both standard and fast charging options are available. With the fast charger, 20% to 80% charge can be achieved in just 36 minutes. The SUV also has V2L (Vehicle-to-load) feature that can be used to charge tools and equipment.Spartan EV 2.0 has manually operated differential locks at front and rear. The SUV can be operated in 2WD High, 4WD High and 4WD Low configuration. Regenerative braking is available to improve range. Safety kit includes features such as hill descent control, ABS and tyre pressure monitoring system.Spartan EV 2.0 India launch prospectsIn the UK, the Spartan EV 2.0 has been homologated as a light commercial vehicle. It is primarily targeted at users associated with forestry, agriculture, mining, nature conservation and extreme sports sectors.Spartan EV 2.0 has global potential and enthusiasts in India will surely like to try it. It can even emerge a bestseller, as there are hardly any rivals in this space. Mahindra is working on Thar electric, but it is planned for launch in 2026. If MW Motors can expedite plans in collaboration with Force Motors, Spartan EV 2.0 can become a reality in India. More

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      Mahindra XUV.e9 EV Coupe Reveals Flamboyant Design

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      Mahindra XUV.e9 EV CoupeWhen compared to XUV.e8 with a regular monocoque SUV proportions, Mahindra XUV.e9 EV Coupe emerges as significantly more stylishCoupe SUVs have been catching up in recent times. What started as a design trend with BMW X6 has reached mainstream car markets. Mahindra is also taking up the trend and developing XUV.e9 and BE.09. There have been spy shots showing profile, but the new spy shots show rear section as well.Mahindra XUV.e9 EV CoupeFor starters, the new XUV.e9 is essentially an electrified version of upcoming XUV700 Coupe or XUV800. While XUV.e8 is an electrified version of XUV700, XUV.e9 is an electrified version of XUV800, which could be launched at a later date. To ace aerodynamic performance of a coupe SUV, Mahindra seems to be benchmarking a Tesla Model Y, spotted at Mahindra’s premises.The recent XUV.e9 spy shots were captured by automotive enthusiast Anto Leo Thomson. This particular test mule was found trundling along near Paranur toll gate outside Mahindra City, Chengalpattu, Tamil Nadu. These are the clearest and the closest pictures of XUV.e9 yet. Most of the components like tail lights and headlights seem to be production-spec.In many Mahindra prototypes, we have seen temporary tail lights, but these seem to be finalised. We can see how massive Mahindra XUV.e9 looks and the massive road presence it exudes. Wheels look a tad small for a vehicle of this size. However, the coupe roof line is the primary highlight here.Mahindra XUV.e9 EV Coupe shapeIt smoothly flows into rear section that features a connected tail light design along with a fake air vent-type element. We can see split aero rear spoiler along with a shark fin antenna. Front door handles are flush, but rear door handle is in the C-pillar. Chunky body claddings will cut down on visual mass too.Immersive interiorsAnto Leo Thomson also mentioned that this particular test mule features a triple-screen setup – one for main infotainment, one for driver’s instrumentation and one for front passenger. We will see Mahindra’s new steering wheel which looks to be inspired by Tata’s new steering design. Like BE.05, XUV.e9 could feature a fixed glass roof too.Powertrain-wise, Mahindra’s new INGLO platform will underpin this stylish coupe SUV. Battery size will vary between 60 kWh to 80 kWh. Single motor RWD and dual motor AWD layouts will be offered as options. Performance with these SUVs will be plenty with instant electric torque. Mahindra demonstrated a 200 km/h top speed as well.Mahindra BE.09 Production DesignIn India, Tata Tigor was the first mainstream coupe vehicle, followed by Maruti Suzuki Fronx. That said, Mahindra had established interests in coupe vehicles much earlier and had even showcased XUV500 Aero Concept with a sloping roof line. The new BE.09 and XUV.e9 are spiritual successors of that design. More

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      Volvo C40 Recharge Electric Car Catches Fire – Volvo India Official Statement

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      Volvo C40 Recharge Electric catches fireQuick Thinking Ensures Escape from Burning C40 – How Will This Incident Impact Electric Vehicle Adoption?In a surprising turn of events, a video has surfaced online showing a Volvo C40 Recharge, known for its reputation as one of the safest car brands globally, engulfed in flames. The incident occurred in Chhattisgarh, while the owner was driving, raising concerns about the safety of electric vehicles.The Volvo C40 Recharge, an all-electric car, has been gaining attention for its eco-friendly features and advanced safety measures. Priced at Rs 62.95 lakh (ex-showroom), it is one of the premium electric offerings available in India. However, a shocking video shared by the car owner reveals a different side to the vehicle’s safety record.Volvo’s Safety Reputation TestedThe video, recorded by the owner at the time of the incident, captures the moment the Volvo C40 Recharge caught fire. Fortunately, everyone on board managed to escape unharmed before the flames engulfed the car completely. The cause of the fire is yet to be determined, and investigations are underway to understand the circumstances that led to this unexpected incident.Volvo, known for its commitment to safety, has not released an official statement regarding the incident at the time of writing. Owners of the C40 Recharge and electric vehicle enthusiasts are awaiting an explanation from the company, seeking reassurance about the safety standards of their vehicles.[embedded content]This incident is likely to spark discussions about the safety of electric cars, particularly as they become more prevalent on roads worldwide. While electric vehicles are generally considered to be safer than traditional combustion engine cars, isolated incidents like these can raise concerns among consumers and prompt manufacturers to revisit their safety protocols.What Can the Electric Car Industry Take Away from This Incident?It is important to note that the swift evacuation and the absence of injuries in this incident highlight the importance of vehicle occupants being aware of safety procedures and emergency exits. The incident also emphasizes the need for continued research and development in the electric vehicle industry to enhance safety measures and prevent such incidents in the future. As investigations into the Volvo C40 Recharge fire continue, the incident serves as a reminder for both manufacturers and consumers to prioritize and stay vigilant about the safety aspects of electric vehicles.Update – Volvo India StatementWe are aware of an incident on Saturday involving a fire on a C40 while being driven. The embedded safety features informed the driver to take the car aside and step out of the car. There were no injuries & all occupants were safe. Our Customer Care call center was online to guide the customer on requisite safety measures. At Volvo Cars we pride ourselves on the safety of our cars and have taken this incident very seriously. The said vehicle will be minutely examined by our technical experts to ascertain the cause. We are in touch with and continue to support the customer. More

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      Tata New EVs Incoming – Curvv, Harrier (2024), Sierra, Altroz (2025)

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      Tata New EVs IncomingWith a diversified electric portfolio, Tata Motors can sustain its dominance in mass market EV segmentWith bestsellers like Nexon EV and Tiago EV, Tata Motors has captured a large chunk of the entry-level EV segment. Punch EV has also been launched and is expected to deliver similar results. With multiple affordable EVs, Tata Motors seems like the new Maruti of EV world. There’s more in store, as Tata Motors is readying 4 new SUVs for 2024-2025.Curvv EV, Harrier EV launch in 2024With its sporty design and hi-tech features, Curvv SUV has potential to disrupt the compact SUV segment. Curvv SUV will have both electric and ICE versions. The electric variant will be launched first to establish a lead over the upcoming Hyundai Creta EV. As of now, the compact SUV segment is dominated by the likes of Creta, Kia Seltos and Maruti Grand Vitara. The compact EV SUV segment will also see the launch of Maruti eVX next year. It will be Maruti’s first electric offering, based on an entirely new born-electric platform. eVX will be one of the key rivals of Tata Curvv EV.[embedded content]For Curvv EV, Tata is using the new, born-electric acti.ev platform. Punch EV was the first Tata car to get this new advanced architecture. Apart from Curvv EV, all other upcoming new Tata passenger EVs will share the same platform. Acti.ev architecture offers multiple benefits spread across technology, performance, modularity and optimal space utilization.After Curvv EV, Tata will introduce Harrier EV later this year. The production variant will closely match the design and features seen with the Harrier EV concept showcased at 2023 Auto Expo. Harrier EV will retain the Omega architecture, a derivative of the legendary Land Rover D8 architecture.New Tata Harrier EV design patentHowever, the platform has undergone some major modifications to support electrification. Also, Tata’s Gen 2 EV architecture has been combined to create the new architecture for Harrier EV. Tata is also working on Harrier turbo-petrol that will be launched after Harrier EV.Sierra EV, Altroz EV launch in 2025Tata had showcased the Sierra EV concept at 2020 and 2023 Auto Expo. Launch is expected in 2025. A number of features are borrowed from Tata Avinya concept. Sierra EV will retain the overall look and feel of its predecessor, while also introducing new styling elements. Some of the key highlights include sleek headlamps, fine mesh grille, rugged bumper and a backlit Tata logo (part of the full-width LED light bar). Sierra EV will have spacious interiors and a comprehensive range of advanced features. It is likely that Tata will also introduce the ICE version of Sierra.Altroz EV was showcased at the 2019 Geneva Motor Show. It is apparent that launch has been delayed due to the pandemic. Altroz will also share the new acti.ev platform like Punch EV. It could have a range of around 400-450 km. New features including ADAS are likely. More

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      Tata Punch.ev On-Road Prices Compared With Bigger SUVs

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      New Tata Punch EV. Image – Shubhadip SinghaTata Punch.ev is not very small compared to sub 4m SUVs and looking at features, powertrains and dynamics, it is the best vehicle to buy under Rs. 16 lakh (on-road)With the launch of Punch.ev, Tata Motors aim to push electric mobility to the masses. Thus hoping to speed up electric adoption rate in India. Launched recently, Punch EV (sold as Punch.ev) costs between Rs. 11.99 lakh and Rs. 14.49 lakh (ex-sh). These are killer prices and Tata is offering sunroof and 7.2 kW fast charger for an additional Rs. 50,000 each.Tata Punch.ev On-Road Prices ComparedThe prices are introductory and are bound to change at a later date. However, buying one now will make a lot of sense. We have driven the car around Bengaluru at Punch.ev media drive event organised by Tata Motors including off-road track and on-road handling track. You can read our first impression review here.In the review, we concluded that car buyers looking at cars below Rs. 16 lakh across any segment should consider Punch.ev before finalising. To fully understand the gravity of Punch.ev’s brilliance, we should look at a car’s on-road pricing and compare it to sub 4m SUVs/crossovers.We say this because electric cars only attract nominal registration charges, while ICE cars attract full-fat road tax. In the price table below, you can see how Tata Punch.ev on-road prices hold up against on-road prices of IC engine equipped sub 4m SUVs. I took on-road prices from Karnataka of automatic variants. Read comparison with Citroen eC3 here.Tata Punch.ev On-road Prices ComparedThe prices mentioned above, are for reference only and are not accurate. They include indicatory RTO tax, insurance and other charges. When comparing on-road prices, Punch.ev starts to look a lot more VFM than larger sub 4m SUVs with an IC engine. For context, we took top-spec Punch.ev Empowered+ LR with 7.2 kW ACFC for this comparison.Why we call Punch.ev a game changer?At around Rs. 16 lakh (on-road, Karnataka), Punch.ev has a lot of features and equipment. For starters, Punch.ev gets an electronic parking brake with auto hold, a fancy gear selector with an integrated display, new-age steering wheel from Nexon with an illuminated logo, paddle shifters, ventilated front seats, all-four disc brakes, LED projector headlights and a lot more.Not just that, Punch.ev has sequential LED indicators, full-width LED DRL with welcome and goodbye functions, leatherette seat upholstery, leather-wrapped steering wheel, LED projector fog lights, cornering light function, auto headlights, rain-sensing wipers, auto-dimming IRVM, 360-degree camera, air purifier, telematics, fancy touch and toggle-style climate control panel and steering mounted controls.Tata Punch.ev interiorsThen comes the new 10.2-inch touchscreen infotainment screen with wireless Android Auto, Apple CarPlay and Arcade.ev app suite for video streaming from many OTT platforms. Add to it, a 10.2-inch single-piece TFT colour instrument cluster that is fully configurable with a full-screen maps feature and shows a plethora of vehicular information.A package of all these features and technology in itself is note-worthy at Rs. 16 lakh. But zooming out further, Punch.ev is an electric car with supremely low running costs. It offers a 35 kWh battery with LR models, packing 121 bhp and 190 Nm claiming 0-100 km/h sprint in 9.5 seconds. Range is a claimed 421 km, with a real-world range of around 300 km. There are drive modes and adjustable regen modes too.Tata Punch EV First Drive ReviewThe chassis optimisation of Acti.ev platform is definitely an added masala to an already incredible package. Tata Punch.ev is easily the most agile mainstream vehicle in sub 4m segment and promises spirited and sure-footed driving dynamics. Ride quality, rough road ability and off-road capability are pretty impressive too. More

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      Maruti Suzuki eVX Spotted With ADAS Module – Launch Nearing?

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      Maruti Suzuki eVX spotted with ADAS moduleProduction-spec Maruti Suzuki eVX spotted testing, will rival ZS EV, upcoming Creta EV, Curvv EV, Elevate EV, Mahindra BE.05 and othersIndia’s leading carmaker, Maruti Suzuki, currently lacks an electric offering. This auto giant has a strategic partnership with Toyota and together, both the manufacturers are expected to launch their first electric vehicle for Indian markets. Maruti Suzuki eVX has been spotted testing multiple times and will launch before Toyota counterpart, based on Urban Crossover Concept.Maruti Suzuki eVX Spotted Testing AgainGlobal Suzuki has unveiled exteriors and interiors of eVX e-SUV in concept form. However, eVX has been spotted testing multiple times both overseas and here in India. Looking at the testing prototypes, we would wager that this product will probably take a lot more time than what was earlier predicted.But the testing is running in full swing, as observed with increasing frequency of test mule sightings. We can predict a launch timeline around the end of 2024. That said, the recent spy shots are some of the clearest, lending a perspective as to what we can expect from upcoming Maruti Suzuki eVX e-SUV.Considering that Suzuki has already revealed exteriors in concept form, we can compare how close the final production-spec model is going to be. Especially when compared to what was showcased as a concept.Maruti Suzuki eVX ConceptHow true is production model to conceptMaruti Suzuki eVX production model looks like it is toned down a lot from the concept version. We say this because the concept looked a lot more chiselled, edgy and flexed character lines that were quite complex to achieve in mass manufacturing. However, production model does retain design ethos where core silhouette is concerned.Front fascia ditches the sleek LED headlights in favour of a more conventional one. Concept has a closed-off grill, but production model features a grill that is a lot more open. Almost like a normal IC engine-equipped vehicle. Upper grill has a radar module too for ADAS suite. This could be the first Maruti vehicle to get ADAS. Maybe Grand Vitara may offer ADAS before eVX launch.Wheels are nothing fancy like the aero ones seen on concept model. A rear-view camera and flush door handles on concept make way for conventional ones with production-spec models. Rear door handle is on C pillar, which is interesting. Side profile almost carries design ethos from concept including an almost three-box design.Maruti Suzuki eVX dummy tail lightsTail lights of this particular test mule were dummy units for a temporary purpose. When launched, Maruti Suzuki eVX will feature connected tail lights that almost every car is offering these days. Other notable attributes include a shark-fin antenna, a subtle rear spoiler and a non-flashy bumper.Where powertrains are concerned, Maruti Suzuki eVX e-SUV will be based on born-electric YY8 skateboard, which is derived from Toyota’s 27PL platform. Battery options might include 45 kWh and 60 kWh units with single motor FWD and dual motor AWD layout options. Range can be around 550 km on a single charge.Maruti Suzuki eVX alloy wheel designSource More

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      Tata Sanand Plant To Start EV Production Soon – Curvv, Harrier, Safari EVs Spied Together

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      Along with Harrier EV, Tata is also planning the launch of Curvv EV and Safari EVTata Passenger Electric Mobility Ltd, a unit of Tata Motors, had acquired this Sanand facility from Ford India in January 2023Tata Motors, with an extensive range of electric vehicles in its portfolio, is planning to commence production from its new Sanand plant from April 2024. This plant was acquired from Ford India early last year and it is from this manufacturing unit that Tata Motors also produces the ICE versions of Nexon.Tata to make EVs at Sanand PlantThe Sanand plant which has been acquired from Ford India at Rs 725.7 crore, has a current capacity of 3 lakh units per annum though production capacity can be extended to 4.2 lakh units. Even as the company has announced that production of the Nexon EV will soon commence, Tata Motors also plans launch of the Curvv EV and Harrier EV, all of which will be produced from the same plant.[embedded content]There is also the Safari EV in the making. All three of these new EV SUVs were spied together recently in Pune. Targeting a 5 percent growth in the passenger vehicle segment, Tata Motors Passenger Vehicles MD Shailesh Chandra revealed the timeline for launch of the Curvv EV and Harrier EV. The Curvv EV is planned for launch in Q3/Q4 of CY 2024 while later this year the company will also launch the Harrier EV.Earlier this week the company introduced Punch.ev. It comes in at a competitive pricing of Rs 10.99 lakh to Rs 14.49 lakh, ex-showroom and booking open at Rs 21,000. It competes with the Citroen eC3 and upcoming Hyundai Exter EV and Kia Clavis. Punch.ev is being offered with two battery packs. The standard model gets a 25-kWh battery pack offering a 315 km range while the Long Range (LR) variant sports a larger 35 kWh battery pack with a 421 km range.Tata Safari EV spied in PuneTata Curvv has been spied on test and prices are likely to be announced by June 2024. It enters the compact SUV space and will have both ICE and electric powertrains. The ICE variant will take on the Hyundai Creta and Kia Seltos along with the Maruti Grand Vitara while the electric version of Curvv will compete with the upcoming Creta EV, Maruti eVX and Mahindra BE.05.Tata Harrier EV spied in PuneTata Harrier EV, Safari EV Design Patent LeakedTata Harrier and Safari EVs will be the company’s flagship electric vehicle. Design leaks show off a more futuristic design with extensive exterior updates along with a host of interior features. These include a twin spoke steering wheel, panoramic sunroof, touch based HVAC system, a 360 degree camera and ADAS. Cabin comforts also extend to automatic climate controls, wireless charging, ventilated seating in the front and ambient lighting.Tata Harrier EV and Safari EV will be positioned on the company’s Gen II EV architecture, an improvement over the Gen I platform seen on the Nexon EV. It will likely draw its power via a 60 kWh to 80 kWh battery pack to offer a range of around 500 kms on full charge. Expect prices to be in the Rs 25-35 lakh range upon launch. More

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      Citroen eC3 Shine Launched – New Features To Rival Punch EV

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      Citroen eC3 Shine trim launchedCitroen eC3 Shine claims acceleration from 0-60 km/h in 6.8 seconds, a top speed of 107 km/h and DC charging facilities up to 80% in 57 minutesThe new top-spec Citroen eC3 Shine trim has been launched in India priced between Rs. 13.2 lakh and Rs. 13.5 lakh (ex-sh). It was earlier presented in two variants – Live and Feel, launched at Rs 11.50 lakh and Rs 12.13 lakh (ex-sh) respectively. With the launch of Punch.ev with its stellar packaging and fat brochure, Citroen is upping its EV game too.Citroen eC3 Shine LaunchedIts ICE counterpart, C3 Hatchback, was also offered in Live and Feel trims initially and added top-spec Shine trim later on. When compared to ICE C3 Shine Non-Turbo variant, Citroen eC3 Shine costs Rs 5.44 lakh more and Rs. 4.92 lakh more for Turbo variant. The eC3 Shine trim is also offered in Vibe Pack, Dual Tone and Dual Tone Vibe Pack priced at Rs 13.35 lakh, Rs. 13.35 lakh and Rs 13.50 lakh respectively (all prices are ex-showroom).The new Citroen eC3 Shine marks the company’s attempt to better rival against newly launched Tata Punch.ev. It goes up against the Tiago EV and MG Comet. But the apples to apples comparison points towards recently launched Punch EV. Deliveries of the eC3 will commence soon.Citroen eC3 Shine trim sports all the same dimensions and features as seen on its ICE counterpart. It measures 3,981mm in length, 1,733 mm in width and 1,586mm in height and has a wheelbase of 2,540mm. It boasts a ground clearance of 170mm too.Citroen eC3 Shine ColoursAdded features over Feel trimThe main feature additions have to be 15-inch alloy wheels, electrically adjustable ORVMs, rear washer and wiper, rear defogger, rear parking camera and a leather wrapping to its steering wheel. External design additions include front and rear silver faux skid platesOther features carried over from Feel trim include dual front airbags, manual air conditioning, remote locking, power windows at the front and rear and a height adjustable driver’s seat. It also sports onboard equipment such as a 10-inch touchscreen infotainment system with wireless Android Auto and Apple CarPlay, connected car technology and a 4 speaker sound system.Connected car tech is via the MyCitroen Connect app that offers users information on vital statistics such as charging status, location and navigate to the nearest charging station. Safety is via dual airbags, ABS with EBD.Citroen eC3 Shine infotainmentNo changes to powertrainCitroen eC3 Shine continues to draw power from a 29.2 kWh battery pack with a single electric motor offering 57 hp power and 143 Nm torque. It offers a 320 km range and fast charging via a DC charger that can charge the battery upto 80 percent in 57 minutes. It can also be charged from 10 to 100 percent via a home charger in 10.5 hours.Acceleration from 0-100 km/h is achieved in 16.88 seconds. The Citroen eC3 also gets two driving modes of Eco and Standard along with regenerative braking. Citroen eC3 is presented with a 7 year/1,40,000km warranty on battery pack, 5 year/1,00,000km warranty on e-motor and 3 year/1,25,000km warranty on the vehicle.Citroen eC3 Shine exteriors More