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      Baojun Yep Plus (Comet Based SUV) Debut Soon – Punch EV, Exter EV Rival

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      MG Comet based new SUV Spied. Image – Tycho de FeijterCapable of carrying more passengers, the Baojun Yep Plus 5-door SUV will cater to a broader segment of users in comparison to the 3-door modelAvailable for sale in its home market China, the Baojun Yep 3-door electric SUV was launched in 2023. Latest spy shots reveal a new 5-door version in the works. The MG Comet EV based 5-door model is expected to be called Baojun Yep Plus. Launch in China is expected soon, most likely in Q1, CY2024.Baojun Yep Plus – Styling and featuresJust like the 3-door Yep, the 5-door Baojun Yep Plus has a boxy profile. Yep Plus will be longer than the 3-door Yep that measures 3.4 meters in length. However, Yep Plus will still be a sub-compact SUV, being less than 4 meters in length.MG Comet based new SUV SpiedExteriors of Yep Plus won’t have any major deviations in comparison to the 3-door Yep. This is evident with the test mule’s bumper and tail lights that are largely the same as seen with 3-door Yep. Front fascia of Yep Plus is also expected to be the same as that of 3-door Yep. Only some minor touch-ups can be introduced.However, with the longer size and additional doors, the side body panelling has changed. As compared to 3-door Yep that has the ORVMs mounted on the A pillar, the 5-door Yep Plus carries the ORVMs on the front door. Another thing to note is that this particular test mule does not have roof rails and running boards. Alloy wheels appear to be new for the 5-door Yep Plus.MG Comet based new SUV SpiedBaojun Yep Plus – Specs, performanceWith larger dimensions and more passengers to carry, 5-door Baojun Yep Plus will need a larger battery than the 28.1 kWh unit in use with the 3-door Yep. Range will be around the same as that of 3-door Yep that offers 303 km, as per CLTC standard. Performance details of 5-door Yep Plus are yet to be revealed. For reference, the 3-door Yep churns out 68 hp of max power and 140 Nm of peak torque. Its top speed is capped at 100 km/h.Baojun Yep Plus India launch prospectsIt is unlikely that an MG-badged 5-door Yep Plus electric SUV will be launched in India. However, MG Motor is developing a new EV (codenamed E260) for the Indian market, which will essentially be a rebadged version of 3-door Yep. Only minor styling changes are expected. MG’s new EV will be underpinned by Comet’s Global Small Electric Vehicle (GSEV) platform. It will have slightly larger dimensions than Comet and share a 3-door layout. Launch is expected in 2025.Just like the Comet, MG Motor will aim to launch the new EV at a competitive price point. It will be made possible with a high level of localization. Even the battery pack will be sourced locally. For Comet, the battery pack is sourced from Tata Autocomp. The new 3-door EV will be positioned above the Comet EV. It is expected to be launched in the price range of Rs 12 lakh to Rs 15 lakh.Source More

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      Maruti To Export Electric Cars, Cells, Battery Packs – Japan, Europe Among Clients

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      Maruti EVX Electric SUVMaruti is aiming to sell approximately half a million EVs per annum by FY2031, which will be around 15% of its overall salesAlthough Maruti Suzuki is a late entrant in the electric car segment, the company is looking to step up focus in this space. There are plans to launch at least 6 electric vehicles by the end of this decade. Maruti’s first EV will be eVX compact SUV that will rival the likes of upcoming Hyundai Creta EV and Tata Curvv EV.Maruti to export EVs, battery cells and battery packsAlong with the domestic market, Maruti Suzuki will also target exports of its EVs. In addition, the company will also be exporting advanced lithium-ion battery cells and battery packs. The exports are targeted to commence this year itself. The export markets for EVs and related components include Japan and European countries.Maruti EVX Electric SUVSpeaking about the plans, Maruti Suzuki India Executive Director Rahul Bharti said that the company is looking at exports worth Rs 750 crore in the current financial year. The exports will include battery cells, battery packs and modules.Maruti Suzuki sources the battery cells and packs from the Automotive Electronics Power Private Ltd (AEPPL). This entity is a joint venture between Maruti’s parent company Suzuki Motor Corporation and Toshiba Corporation and Denso Corporation. The components are manufactured at a lithium-ion battery plant location in Hansalpur, Gujarat.Maruti EVX Electric SUV Render by Motor.ESSuzuki to invest 3,200 crores to boost BEV productionSuzuki Group has allocated funds worth Rs 3,200 crores for the expansion of Suzuki Motor Gujarat (SMG) plant. It currently has a production capacity of 7.5 lakh units per annum. The fourth production line will add 2.5 lakh units per year, thereby increasing the overall production capacity of the plant to 1 million units per year. This new production line will cater exclusively to Maruti’s upcoming electric cars. It is to note that Suzuki Motor Corporation has around 58% shareholding in Maruti Suzuki.Suzuki is also setting up a new plant in Gujarat. An investment of Rs 35,000 crores has been earmarked for the project. The new plant will have a production capacity of 1 million units per annum. With increased production capacity, Maruti will be able to handle rising demand for its cars across both domestic and international markets. Apart from BEVs, Maruti will also be focusing on other fuels such as CNG, flex fuel, biogas and hybrid electric vehicles. By FY 2030-31, the company will have a total of 28 models in its portfolio. It has 18 models as of now.This year, Maruti will be launching the Creta EV-rivalling eVX compact SUV. In 2024, Tata will be introducing the Curvv ICE and EV models. Creta EV is expected to debut this year around the festive season. It will be a new battleground and difficult to say who will take the lead. Maruti is also working on a new entry-level EV that will primarily rival Tata Tiago EV. Based on a new born electric K-EV platform, the small EV is expected to give a big boost to the company’s EV goals. It will be launched in 2026-27. More

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      Mercedes EQG Synchronized 360° Tank Turns At Vegas Strip – Theatrics Or Practical?

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      Mercedes EQG G-Turn360° tank turn capabilities have been displayed earlier by other cars also such as BYD YangWang U8 and Hyundai Ioniq 5 prototypeMercedes has showcased the 360° tank turn feature of its new Electric G-Class in multiple videos posted earlier. The company has chosen to call this feature the ‘G’ turn. Taking it a step further, 4 EQG prototypes can be seen performing synchronized 360° tank turns at the Las Vegas Strip. The spectacular show highlights the superior technological prowess of electric cars in comparison to ICE vehicles.Mercedes EQG G turns – Practical usesWhile the synchronized show at the Las Vegas Strip was an impressive publicity stunt, the 360° tank turn can find practical uses. For example, it can come in handy during off-roading when the user needs to manoeuvre the vehicle to the right or left. Dodging a big boulder or other such obstacles can be possible with the G-turn feature.One may not need to use the full 360° turn. Instead, even a slight move to the left or right can be useful while negotiating challenging off-road tracks. In other uses, the 360° tank turn can find applications while negotiating tight urban spaces. Or driving through single-lane streets or accidentally reaching a dead-end.And of course, the G turn seems like a great way to have some fun with friends and family. With the synchronized G-turn option, the possibilities are limitless for individuals and organizations alike. Something similar can already be seen with Tesla’s synchronized light shows. The EQG can perhaps add more dynamism to such shows with its 360° tank turn capabilities.[embedded content]EQG 360° spin – How it works?Although the Mercedes-Benz’s G turn looks effortless, a high level of precision engineering, AI and sensors are required to make it possible. The EQG does it automatically, without requiring any significant inputs from the driver.It works by transferring forward and reverse power to diagonally opposite wheels. This allows the vehicle to rotate on its axis. The wheels don’t turn left or right during this process. As the 360° tank turn puts significant stress on the vehicle, the chassis and suspension need to be strong to support such features.G-turn will be available with production modelIn the past, some other cars have also shown capabilities to perform a 360° tank turn. In 2019, the Rivian R1T pickup was shown making tank turns. However, the feature was not offered with the production model. This is unlikely to be the case with production EQG or the baby G-Class, as the company is promoting the 360° tank turn in a big way. It has already received wide appreciation from enthusiasts.Mercedes EQG G-Turn Aerial ViewMercedes EQG utilizes an independent front suspension, in combination with a rigid rear axle. A body-on-frame chassis has been used, specially developed for EVs. To protect the drivetrain components, the EQG utilizes carbon-kevlar underbody panels. The SUV has 4 electric motors that generate a combined output of around 600 to 670 hp. More

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      Tata Punch EV Reach Dealerships – Interior Similar To Nexon EV

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      Tata Punch EV Reach DealershipsAs opposed to ICE Punch, Tata Punch EV has an overhauled interior that shares most components with pricier Nexon EVWithin Tata Motors’ SUV lineup, Punch is the smallest offering and has created a special segment of its own below Nexon sub 4m SUV. With 5 Star crash safety rating from GNCAP, rugged looks and a well-packaged features list, Punch soon became popular in India. Now, Tata is launching an electric version of Punch to expand its EV portfolio.Tata Punch EV Reach DealershipsIf Nexon is the highest-selling vehicle (of any segment) in India, Punch is 3rd highest-selling vehicle with 13,787 units sold in December 2023. In comparison, Tiago and Tigor garner much lower sales numbers. Electrifying Punch would unlock a new horizon of expanding the brand’s reach to target demographic.Considering growing SUV craze in India, Punch EV could very well be India’s best-selling EV upon launch too, sidelining Tiago EV. The potential that Punch EV packs is very high and pricing is likely to play a big role in establishing this effect. The company has revealed exterior design elements of Punch EV ahead of launch.For the first time, Punch EV interiors have been spotted of units that have been arriving at Tata’s EV-specific dealerships. There is a massive departure in interiors from what the company is offering with ICE model. The overall look and feel of Punch EV is a big leap in terms of aesthetics, appeal and technology.Punch EV new 10.2-inch instrument screenWe say this because there are a lot of parts sharing with its bigger and more expensive brother, Nexon EV, which was recently launched. The Punch EV spotted at dealership seems to be top-spec Empowered+ trim and hence it gets the same 10.2-inch fully digital instrument cluster that Tata offers with Nexon, Nexon EV, Harrier and Safari.Interior overhaulOther than that, Punch EV should get the same 10.2-inch touchscreen infotainment screen that supports wireless Android Auto and Apple CarPlay along with Arcade.ev app suite from Tata. Punch EV gets Tata’s new 2-spoke steering wheel with an illuminated logo similar to Nexon EV. There should be a new centre console with touch and toggle design HVAC controls as well.These are a major uplift when compared to the interiors of Punch ICE with a small 7-inch head unit and other shared parts with Tiago and Tigor. Punch EV gets rear disc brakes too, something that Harrier doesn’t get as standard even today. Tata is offering standard Punch EV and Punch EV LR (Long Range) with battery choices and an electrifying performance.Punch EVEven the sunroof is optional and not standard, which is much appreciated. Other choices include either a 3.3 kW AC charger or the faster 7.2 kW AC charger. The car sits on a dedicated Acti.ev electric vehicle platform that allows for a front trunk as well, which is the first on any Tata EV before. Charging port is in the front too, which is so much convenient than side ports.Image – Chotharamparmar More

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      Maruti To Launch Entry-Level EV In 3 Years – Tiago EV Rival

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      Suzuki eWX ConceptUnlike some OEMs that have initially relied on ICE to EV conversions, Maruti will start its EV journey with a born-electric platformAlthough late in the EV game, Maruti Suzuki had mega plans for this segment. More than 10,000 crore investment has been earmarked for localization of EVs. The first product will be eVX compact electric SUV, expected to be launched in late 2024. Later in 2026-2027, Maruti will target the entry-level EV space, currently dominated by Tata Tiago EV.Maruti small EV detailsA few years back, Maruti was working on an ICE to EV conversion project in the form of Wagon R EV. That project was scrapped due to cost and technical aspects. Maruti is now developing a born-electric EV architecture (codenamed K-EV) that will be used for its compact electric vehicles.Suzuki eWX ConceptIt is different from the eVX that will spawn the Creta EV rivalling compact EV. Both these platforms will be used to develop multiple new EVs. Having two platforms will help add more variety and fulfil cost, efficiency and performance requirements.Similar to the strategy followed by Tata Motors, Maruti Suzuki will also focus on achieving a high level of localization. Suzuki has tie-ups with Denso and Toshiba for manufacturing battery packs. For the upcoming eVX, Suzuki will be sourcing the blade cells from BYD. However, the battery supplier for K-EV small EV could be a different entity.Suzuki eWX ConceptMaruti targeting half a million EV sales by FY31Maruti has plans to ramp up its EV operations at a fast pace. By the end of this decade, Maruti is looking to add at least 6 new electric cars. By FY2031, Maruti EV sales will comprise around 15% of its overall sales. That’s around half a million units per annum. Maruti’s EV portfolio will have a wide range of options including hatchbacks, SUVs and MPVs. All EVs will be born electric and there won’t be any ICE to EV conversions.To achieve a high level of localization, Suzuki has committed an investment of more than Rs 10,000 crore. The funds will be used for localization of cells as well as for production. Maruti EVs will compete with Tata EVs across both pricing and features.As of now, Tata dominates with a market share of more than 70%. Entry-level Tiago EV is a key contributor, averaging sales of around 1,000 to 1,500 units per month. Tata will also launch Punch EV, which is expected to provide a significant boost to the company’s EV sales.EV prices to match ICE-car prices in coming yearsAs of now, electric vehicles are sold at a premium. In the case of ICE Tiago and its EV version, the price difference is around 35%. Such price gaps are expected to reduce in future, as production volumes increase and battery prices fall. It will allow a faster transition from ICE to EVs. It will still be a long journey, as EV share in overall PV sales in 2023 was just around 2 percent.Source More

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      Punch EV Off-Roading Capabilities, Dual-Display Revealed – Launch Soon

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      Tata Punch EV off-roading teaserTo be positioned above the Tiago EV, Tata Punch.ev will rival the likes of Citroen eC3 and upcoming Hyundai Exter EVTata’s early foray into the EV segment with products like Nexon EV has turned out to be a spectacular success. The company currently commands more than 70% market share in EV space. With new products like Punch EV and upcoming Harrier EV, Safari EV and Curvv EV, Tata will be looking to maintain its dominance.Punch.ev off-roading capabilities revealedA recent Instagram post uploaded by Tata reveals the off-roading capabilities of Punch.ev. The mind generally perceives electric cars as relatively fragile in comparison to their ICE counterparts. However, as revealed in the video, Punch.ev is seen conquering a wide variety of extreme off-road tracks. Punch.ev easily drives across the uneven track test, articulation test and mud and gravel dirt track. Punch EV also aces the water crossing test, dispelling any doubts that people may have about the safety of electric cars.[embedded content]Unlike other Tata electric cars like Tiago EV, Tigor EV and Nexon EV that are largely ICE to EV conversion projects, Punch EV is based on an entirely new pure EV architecture named ‘acti.ev’. Many of the off-roading capabilities that Punch EV has could be made possible with this new EV platform. Acti.ev is designed with focus on performance, technology, modularity and space efficiency.It uses an orthogonal, high density battery pack for optimal space utilization and performance. The battery pack cells have been tested in compliance with advanced global standards. The acti.ev platform can support various body styles, offering a range of 300 to 600 km. All three propulsion options, FWD, RWD and AWD, can be accommodated. The platform supports up to 150 kW fast charging. Users will be able to add around 100 km in just 10 minutes.Tata Punch EV interiors – Dual screen setupPunch EV will be available in Standard and Long Range versions. But the exact range is yet to be revealed. As Punch has a pure EV architecture, its range could be higher than its siblings and rival offerings.Punch EV new interior details revealedPunch EV’s equipment list has several components borrowed from Nexon EV. For example, dual 10.25-inch displays will be available with the Empowered+ variant. The Empowered variant will have a single 10.25-inch infotainment and a 7-inch digital instrument console.The dashboard has been refreshed and there’s a new touch sensitive AC control panel. Just like Nexon EV, Punch EV also gets the new 2-spoke steering wheel with backlit Tata logo. Other details revealed include new dual-tone upholstery. It is likely that Punch EV will have more interior theme options based on the variant.Tata Punch EV interiors – new themePunch.ev is expected to be launched by the end of this month. Initial offer price could be around Rs 12 lakh. In comparison, Citroen eC3 starts at Rs 11.61 lakh. It will be interesting to see how Hyundai responds with the Exter EV that is scheduled for launch later this year. More

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      Pravaig Electric Car Testing in Rajaji Tiger Reserve – Fatal Accident Reported

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      Pravaig Electric Car Testing in Rajaji Tiger ReserveThe accident claimed the lives of four individuals, including two forest rangers, while a woman warden remains missingA tragic incident marred the testing phase of an electric vehicle by Bangalore-based startup Pravaig Dynamics, resulting in a high-speed crash within Uttarakhand’s Rajaji Tiger Reserve. The vehicle involved was undergoing a trial run when the devastating crash occurred.Speeding inside a Tiger reserve – Consequences of the AccidentIn an official statement released by Pravaig Dynamics, the company expressed deep sorrow and confirmed its collaboration with investigative authorities to provide comprehensive details regarding the unfortunate event. The incident has been caught on video.STORY | Trial EV accident: EV company deeply saddened; driver says was forced to speed, overloadFour people, including two forest rangers, died after their trial EV met with an accident in Uttarakhand’s Rajaji Tiger Reserve on Monday evening. The accident was recorded in the… pic.twitter.com/7xObtnfVFZ— Press Trust of India (@PTI_News) January 10, 2024The driver of the vehicle, Ashbin Biju, a BE Mechanical Engineer, has provided a separate statement shedding light on the circumstances leading up to the fatal crash. Biju clarified that he was not under the influence of any substances nor fatigued during the trial. The first phase of the test, sanctioned by the Forest Department of Uttarakhand, proceeded without incident in the morning. However, complications arose during the subsequent demonstration in the afternoon.According to Biju’s account, forest officials insisted on overloading the vehicle, accommodating nine individuals—exceeding the recommended seating capacity of eight, including the driver. Despite his reservations, he alleged pressure from the officials to accelerate the vehicle beyond planned parameters.Pravaig Electric Car Testing in Rajaji Tiger ReserveDriver’s Account: Details UnfoldBiju recounted, “I refused to comply 2-3 times and did not accelerate the speed beyond 30-40 (kmph).” However, yielding to persistent insistence, he briefly increased the acceleration, causing the electric vehicle to unexpectedly surge to a speed of 70 kmph due to its inherent rapid acceleration. The unstable terrain, with loose mud and hazardous rocks, led to a tire burst, resulting in the loss of control and a collision with a tree and embankment wall.Pravaig Electric CarAccidentTragically, individuals positioned in the rear of the vehicle, including forest personnel, were thrown off during the crash and suffered fatal injuries. Those in the front seats, who had their seat belts on, survived the impact.Pravaig Electric CarAccidentPravaig Dynamics Official StatementPravaig Dynamics, in their official response, conveyed their profound distress regarding the incident, clarifying that the vehicle was undergoing an authorized trial run in collaboration with the Forest Department of Uttarakhand. The company started receiving reports of the accident and attributed it to a tire burst. They assured cooperation with investigative agencies and their distributors to furnish additional pertinent information.Pravaig Dynamics Official StatementThe accident within the Rajaji Tiger Reserve has sparked widespread concern, prompting a thorough investigation into the circumstances surrounding the crash and raising questions about safety protocols during vehicle trials within protected environments. More

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      New Mahindra Electric SUVs Spied In Ladakh – BE.05 and XUV.e9 Coupe

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      New Mahindra Electric SUVs spied in Ladakh. Credit – Bunny PuniaMahindra Testing Upcoming Electric Vehicle Lineup: XUV.e9 and BE.05 in LadakhMahindra is gearing up to revolutionize the electric vehicle (EV) market with the launch of its newest electric offerings. Recent sightings of test models in Ladakh give us a closer look at two highly anticipated EVs: the XUV.e9 and the BE.05, both poised to redefine the standards of electric mobility. Spy shots are credited to Bunny Punia.Mahindra XUV.e9: Redefining Electric SUVsThe XUV.e9 emerges as the coupe version of the acclaimed XUV700. Distinguishing itself from its donor, the XUV.e9 showcases an assertive design language, marked by a pronounced bonnet featuring muscular creases and power bulges. Notably, a full-width LED light bar, more sophisticated than previous iterations, adorns the front cavity below the bonnet, enhancing its visual appeal.Mahindra XUV.e9 is electric coupe version of XUV700While the prototype retains makeshift headlights, indicative of the forthcoming production-spec units, other striking features include a seamless grille owing to its electric powertrain and substantial body claddings enveloping the mid-size SUV. Notably, the XUV.e9 opts for a strict 5-seater configuration and promises a premium powertrain experience.Performance-wise, expectations soar with an anticipated 80 kWh battery pack delivering a substantial 500 km range on a single charge. The dual-motor setup aims to generate 300 bhp, enabling an all-wheel-drive (AWD) system and a top speed of 200 km/h. Industry enthusiasts speculate on a potential launch scheduled beyond 2025.Mahindra XUV.e9 is electric coupe version of XUV700Mahindra BE.05: Embracing Futuristic DesignSimultaneously, the BE.05 captivates attention with its futuristic design language. During its UK showcase, Mahindra hinted at the production model’s faithfulness to the concept’s striking attributes, a promise upheld in recent spy shots.Mahindra BE.05 is an all new electric vehicle based on Mahindra BE platformThe front fascia boasts colossal LED Daytime Running Lights (DRLs), an unprecedented design aspect that occupies a significant vertical space, setting it apart from competitors. The rear fascinates with wild and avant-garde tail light LED signatures, signaling a departure from conventional designs. The sporty roof spoiler above a small rear windshield amplifies its aerodynamic appeal.From the side, the angular profile and expansive windshield exude a futuristic silhouette. The design team, led by Pratap Bose, has intricately infused cuts and creases into the BE.05’s sheet metal, crafting an attention-grabbing exterior.This audacious design direction marks Mahindra’s departure from conventional design norms, echoing their commitment to pushing boundaries in the EV landscape. However, while pushing innovation, the brand remains cautious not to veer into convoluted designs, a balance they aim to strike with the BE.05.Source More