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      Import Duty On EVs Likely To Reduce – Give Boost To Tesla, Mercedes, BMW, Audi

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      Tesla India Factory could soon be realityAs compared to 100% import duty on cars costing more than $40,000, government is thinking about reducing tax to just 15%Make in India has benefitted various sectors such as electronics manufacturing, pharmaceuticals, renewable energy, defence manufacturing, space, food processing, etc. The automobile and automobile components manufacturers have also benefited from Make in India initiative. Going forward, the government may implement a more flexible approach for specific auto segments such as electric vehicles.Tesla EVs could get cheaperTesla has been eying the Indian EV space since several years. However, due to the high import duty, plans for India have been moving at a slow pace. While there is no official confirmation from the government, it appears that a middle ground is being worked out.One of Tesla’s primary conditions was to test the Indian market, before committing to setting up a manufacturing unit in the country. For this, Tesla wanted the import duties to be scrapped. But that was not accepted, as the government was committed to its Make it India initiative.New report reveals that the Indian government is now working on a more inclusive electric vehicle policy. It will enable carmakers like Tesla to test the waters before committing huge investments. Tesla has already rented space in India, which can be deemed as a positive development in the company’s plan to start India operations.As per the new electric vehicle policy being framed, import duty on high-end electric cars could be reduced to just 15%. This will allow carmakers like Tesla to import fully-built (CBU) EVs into India. The reduction in import duty will also benefit other luxury players such as BMW, Mercedes, Audi and Volvo. It will result in significant reduction in prices of imported luxury electric vehicles.Provisions to support Make in IndiaWhile import taxes for premium EVs could be lowered, it will be applicable with a set of conditions. This will ensure that the new electric vehicle policy continues to support the Make in India initiative. Taxes will be lowered only if the company commits to some level of local manufacturing in the initial stages. The overall quantum of local manufacturing will have to be increased gradually. Carmakers will also be required to start sourcing components locally. They will need to provide bank guarantees that will cover for any defaults in their commitments.The bank guarantees will also be used to create an ecosystem for local suppliers. In the first two years, local sourcing will have to be around 20%. By the fourth year, local sourcing will need to be increased to around 40%. The new electric vehicle policy is currently in draft stages. So, these numbers may change in the final version.While lowering taxes for high-end EVs may have its benefits, the government should be watchful of players that may use this as an opportunity to flood the market with imported cars. A provision for anti-dumping duty can be made in the new EV policy. This will help create a level-playing field for local manufacturers, who have invested a great deal of money in building their EV portfolio.Source More

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      Euro-spec Citroen eC3 Breaks Cover – How Much Better Than Indian Model?

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      Euro-spec Citroen eC3 hatchbackEven though Euro-spec Citroen eC3 is based on a heavily modified version of Indian eC3’s CC21 platform, there are stark differences between both modelsThe iconic French carmaker, Citroen, has taken covers off its new Euro-spec eC3 electric hatchback. This is touted for European market and is different from the eC3 hatchback that Citroen has on offer in India. So, the obvious question arises as to just how much better is Euro-spec Citroen eC3 is, than India-spec Citroen eC3.Euro-spec Citroen eC3 breaks coverFor starters, Euro-spec Citroen eC3 is significantly more premium-looking than India-spec Citroen eC3. Even though the overall silhouette and proportions are comparable, Euro model looks a lot more sophisticated. Starting with the fascia, Euro model has Citroen’s new logo that sits proudly on its nose.There are significantly more stylish LED DRL signatures with Euro model and it has LED headlights between DRLs. Lower bumper has two black plastic trims, while there are sleeker and squarish fog light housings closer to the centre. There are smaller air dams too as Euro-spec Citroen eC3 is electric only, unlike Indian model.Basic silhouette is closer between two models. But, India-spec models have cheaper-feeling lift-type door handles and fender-mounted turn indicators, which are turn-offs. Because top-spec Shine trim is still not on offer with India-spec eC3, there are no alloy wheels, while Euro model has stylish 17-inch alloy wheels.Euro-spec Citroen eC3 dashboardThere are no LED tail light elements with Indian model along with dual-tone bumper designs. The muscular power bulges on bonnet are more pronounced with Euro-spec model and the same trend continues with the rest of sheet metal profiling and detailing of the rest of its exterior design.Which is plusher on the inside?Euro-spec Citroen eC3 has a lot more tech and premiumness to offer than India-spec eC3. For starters, the steering on Euro model is chunkier and gets leather cladding and stitching. The dual-layered dashboard looks like it has fabric cladding for a soft-touch feel. AC vents, buttons, switches and interior trims are a lot more premium and sophisticated too.Features including auto climate control, auto-dimming IRVM, auto headlights, rain-sensing wipers, a heads-up display, a higher-res 10.25-inch touchscreen infotainment screen, a sophisticated centre console, wireless phone charging, front centre armrest are exclusive to Euro-spec Citroen eC3 only.Euro-spec Citroen eC3 sophisticated designEuro model is based on a heavily modified version of Indian eC3’s CC21 platform, christened ‘Smart Car’ platform. Given that it is for European market, there will be a thorough rework where crash safety is concerned. Other than that, Euro model will pack better safety tech and other mandated compliances too.In terms of powertrains, India-spec Citroen eC3 packs a smaller 29.2 kWh battery pack that powers a 57 PS single electric motor, promising 320 km of range. Euro model has a larger 44 kWh battery pack, 113 PS electric motors, promising 320 km range.We don’t expect European model to go on sale in India. But when Citroen is facelifting C3 in India, we now know where the inspiration will be drawn from. The company recently launched C3 Aircross in India. More

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      Toyota FT-Se E-Sportscar And FT-3e E-SUV Concepts Teased

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      Toyota FT-Se electric sportscar conceptToyota FT-SE electric sportscar concept looks different than the current Supra or GR86 on sale and resembles Sports EV conceptThe Japanese automotive juggernaut, Toyota, is not seldom considered a major player in electric car realm. That said, Toyota has been gradually pushing EVs in the recent past and is actively pursuing electric powertrains. Result of this, are recently teased Toyota FT-Se electric sportscar and FT-3e electric SUV concepts.Toyota FT-Se E-SportscarAhead of 2023 Japan Mobility Show in Tokyo, Toyota has teased two new electric vehicle concepts. The more interesting of the two is FT-Se electric sportscar concept. As of now, Toyota has only teased two images, and both of them show this futuristic electric sportscar partially. In some angles, even looks like an evolution of Sports EV concept shown before.From what we can see, FT-Se concept is a flamboyant sportscar with sharp profiling and character lines that strike a definitive character. The wheel track is very wide, jutting away from passenger compartment quite a bit. This will lend superb riding dynamics and stability while sharp cornering.There is an aggressive wide body that covers these wheels and forms aero channels to cut down air drag. Wheels look aerodynamic too and should enhance the electric range, owing to their slippery nature. Roof line is quite narrow and neatly flows towards the rear in a tear-drop sort of shape.Toyota FT-Se interiorThis is where Toyota has given a fixed spoiler that blends into its body panels neatly. LED tail lights are quite wide and we can also see a massive rear diffuser. The GR badging on the outside and in the interiors suggests a sporty edge. On the inside, there is a landscape screen for instrumentation and a portrait screen for infotainment.Toyota FT-3e E-SUVThe second concept that Toyota teased is FT-3e electric SUV that, quite frankly, takes design cues from Toyota bZ4X. It will share most of its electric platform and powertrains with FT-Se sportscar. Based on the limited number of teasers, Toyota FT-3e will be less flamboyant and is likely to be targeted at mainstream audience.We can see quite simplistic body lines that form this electric crossover / SUV. There are sleek wrap-around LED tail lights that get a connected design along with glimpses of sleek rear LED fog lights. There are interesting LED patterns on running board which lend an interesting design detail.Toyota FT-3eThe rear spoiler, squared-off rear section, flush-mounted door handles, flared wheel arches with gloss black finish, aerodynamic channels in front fenders, a silver finish rear skid plate and more. Exact powertrain details are still under wraps. Toyota will divulge more information at 2023 Japan Mobility Show.Toyota FT-3e Profile More

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      Tata Harrier.ev Spotted – Key Inside Details Revealed

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      Tata Harrier.ev SpottedWith Harrier.ev launch expected early next year, Tata could gain the early-mover advantage in mid-size electric SUV segmentAs things stand now, the battle in mid-size SUV segment is limited to ICE models. But things will change dramatically in around a couple of years’ time. The likes of Mahindra and Tata are readying their respective EV offerings in this space. In case of Tata, their primary product will be Harrier.ev. The recent test mule was devoid of an exhaust system, confirming its electric powertrain.Harrier.ev exteriors, interiors revealedHarrier.ev has been spotted on road tests quite frequently in recent months. Tata will be looking to introduce Harrier.ev as soon as possible to establish a lead over its rivals. One of the key rivals is upcoming Mahindra XUV.e8, which is essentially an electric version of XUV700. Other OEMs like MG Motor and Hyundai are also expected to launch their respective mid-size electric SUVs in the future.Talking about Harrier.ev, the test mule reveals that much of the exteriors are the same as the production-ready prototype that was showcased earlier this year in January at Auto Expo 2023. The core design language will also be applied to ICE-equipped Harrier facelift and Safari facelift. The primary source for design inspirations is Curvv concept SUV, representing the new design language for most of Tata’s upcoming cars and SUVs. Recently launched Nexon facelift and Nexon.ev facelift reflects the same.Design and aestheticsSome of the key highlights of Harrier.ev include a new closed-off grille with a horizontal slat design, a full-width LED light strip connecting the LED DRLs, split LED headlamps and a front camera. Inside, the dashboard and centre console have been refreshed. There’s a larger touchscreen with more vertical real estate, which could be more than 12 inches in size. Harrier.ev gets an electronic parking brake, as seen with the test mule.Tata Harrier.ev FasciaJust like Nexon facelift, Harrier.ev gets the new two-spoke steering wheel with an illuminated Tata logo. A comprehensive range of premium features and materials will grace its interiors. Some of these include panoramic sunroof, touch-based HVAC controls, ADAS suite and 360° surround view camera.Other highlights include automatic climate control, wireless charger, air purifier, ambient lighting and ventilated and powered front seats. Tata could also be looking to introduce some best-in-class and segment-first features. These are likely to be revealed in the days prior to launch.Harrier.ev performance, rangeHarrier.ev should be able to deliver a better performance in comparison to its ICE counterpart. One key factor is that Harrier.ev might have AWD capability with a dual motor layout. Performance improvements will also come from the new EV architecture that will be used for Harrier EV.Tata Harrier.ev DashboardSpecific details about the battery pack and range are currently not available. But considering how the EV industry is progressing, Harrier EV could have real-world range of around 400 to 500 km, drawing juice from a 50kWh or 60kWh battery pack. Users will also benefit from the fact that Tata Motors is continuously expanding its charging network across the country.Tata Harrier.ev – no exhaustImage Source – MRDRACER5 More

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      Maruti Suzuki EVX Interiors Revealed – Electric SUV To Rival Creta EV

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      Maruti Suzuki EVX InteriorsBeing Suzuki’s first global strategic EV, the EVX can be expected to have a truly unique profileIn line with industry trends, Suzuki is stepping up focus in EV segment. Suzuki’s first globally-relevant electric offering will be the EVX compact SUV. It will be launched across international markets next year.Maruti Suzuki EVX interiors revealedLaunch in India is expected in early 2025. Here, Maruti Suzuki EVX will compete with the likes of upcoming Creta EV, Seltos EV and Tata Curvv. Suzuki will be revealing the updated version of EVX at the upcoming Japan Mobility Show 2023.Maruti Suzuki EVX InteriorsThe SUV was showcased for the first time earlier this year at Auto Expo 2023. A number of changes have been introduced since then. It will be interesting to see how EVX has evolved in a period of around 8-9 months. Ahead of the Japan Mobility Show that will commence from October 26, interiors of Suzuki EVX have been revealed.Browsing the interiors of Suzuki EVX is a true delight, as it’s unlike any other seen with a mainstream SUV. Some of the key highlights include a uniquely designed sleek dashboard and a large screen comprising the infotainment system and digital instrument cluster. The AC vents wrap around the dashboard, adding more dynamism to the cockpit section.Maruti Suzuki EVX InteriorsThere’s a new two-spoke steering wheel with a windswept profile, mirroring the design of dashboard. It is apparent that steering wheel rotation will be minimal, quite like a sports car or race car. Another noticeable aspect is that there are hardly any physical buttons inside the SUV. Suzuki seems to be aiming for a completely digital experience with the EVX. It will be made possible with capacitive touch controls across the dashboard and the large touchscreen.Maruti Suzuki EVX InteriorsEVX’s rider and front passenger sections are clearly demarcated with the stretched central console. It comes in piano black finish and has the rotary control dial. Another unique design element is the corrugated lines that can be seen across the doors and the central console. These truly stand out and create a mesmerizing experience with the ambient lighting. The bucket seats seem inspired from a futuristic spaceship. They are likely to have advanced foam material, to ensure optimal comfort without appearing thick and heavy.Maruti Suzuki EVX range, specsMaruti Suzuki EVX compact electric SUV will have range of around 500 km. Users can expect superior driving dynamics, as EVX will be equipped with electronically controlled 4×4 technology. Dimensionally, Maruti EVX will be 4,300 mm long, 1,800 mm wide and 1,600 mm tall. As the SUV has a clutter-free design theme, there will be an enhanced sense of space. EVX will also offer advanced safety features for complete peace of mind of occupants. Things like 6+ airbags and a comprehensive range of ADAS features are expected. More

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      Mahindra BE.05 E-SUV Spied Up Close – Wild Design Pro

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      Mahindra BE.05 spotted testingDesign and styling are the biggest strengths with upcoming Mahindra BE.05 as seen with recent spy shotsMahindra is the very first automaker in India to toy around with electric vehicles. With EV popularity on the rise, Mahindra is diving back in, starting with XUV400 and the upcoming BE and XUV.e range of electric SUVs. BE.05 has been spotted testing again and up close, revealing its wild exterior design and styling elements.Mahindra BE.05 Spotted – India’s wildest SUV?Export ambitions have led Mahindra to create INGLO platform. There will be five eSUVs based on this INGLO platform in the first phase and a few more later. Mahindra has commenced testing for INGLO platform-equipped EVs already. Recently demonstrated 200 km/h top speed as well.At BE.05 concept’s showcase event in UK, Mahindra revealed that most of the design language will make it to production. Good news is that most design attributes have made it to production-spec design as seen with these new spy shots. Pratap Bose led design team has done a commendable job at making a striking first appearance.Thanks to automotive enthusiast Ponsam Charles, we have the clearest spy shots of BE.05 yet. At the front, we have massive LED DRLs that we have never seen from any other manufacturers. These DRL signatures take up almost 70% vertical real estate of front fascia and rear tail section.Mahindra BE.05 FrontAt the rear, tail light LED signatures are even wilder and more animalistic. These test mules had temporary generic tail lights and not production-spec ones. There is a small rear windshield and above it, there is a very sporty and futuristic roof spoiler. From the side, rear haunches are some of the most striking we have ever seen.Striking design from profile!Side profile is angular and has quite a large windshield. This lends a futuristic silhouette. There are cuts and creases everywhere in BE.05’s sheet metal. It’s like Mahindra designers didn’t want to stop designing. In the past, this has led to convoluted designs for the brand.But on Mahindra BE.05, all design attributes beautifully come together and make this one of India’s wildest compact SUVs. Probably even the world, considering this is a global SUV. Mahindra’s camouflage on BE.05 has “BE” all around, which is interesting. This test mule has steel wheels, but production-spec model will have alloy wheels.Mahindra BE.05 ProfileGround clearance looks adequate and there is a massive glass roof too. This is likely to be a fixed glass roof and not a panoramic sunroof. Charging port is at the rear left quarter panel, unlike front left fender position on XUV400.60 to 80 kWh batteryMahindra BE.05 is a part of Mahindra’s new BE (Born Electric) vertical. It features BE logo instead of Mahindra’s Twin Peaks logo. On the inside, concept showed a physical partition between front seats. Recent test mule showed this attribute as well. The twin-screen layout on concept is absent and a single instrument screen is present. Maybe final version will get twin displays.Mahindra BE.05 InteriorBattery will be between 60 to 80 kWh in capacity and Mahindra will offer both single-motor and dual-motor layouts. Pricing is likely to be between Rs. 30 lakh and Rs. 40 lakh. Launch will happen in 2024 or beyond. More

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      Suzuki eWX Concept Debuts (230 Km Range) – Next Gen WagonR Electric?

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      Suzuki eWX ConceptWith focus on electrification, Suzuki will be showcasing a host of new products at the upcoming Japan Mobility Show 2023Suzuki’s upcoming EVs that are important from India’s perspective include eWX and EVX. The eWX could emerge as the next-gen WagonR electric. On the other hand, EVX is a compact electric SUV that is expected to make its global debut next year. Maruti Suzuki EVX will take on rivals such as upcoming Creta EV, Seltos EV and Tata Curvv.Suzuki eWX electric mini wagon conceptAs per the original plan, Maruti Suzuki was working to launch WagonR electric sometime in 2020. However, due to the pandemic and subsequent techno-commercial viability issues, the plan was shelved. But as the industry embraces electrification in a big way, it is likely that Maruti will soon debut its first EV for Indian market. The company will also be exploring export opportunities with its EVs.Suzuki eWX ConceptWagonR electric could actually take the final shape as eWX electric mini wagon. This will be showcased at the upcoming Japan Mobility Show 2023. The event is scheduled to take place between October 26 and November 05, 2023. Suzuki eWX will essentially be a Kei car. It will be 3,395 mm long, 1,475 mm wide and 1,620 mm tall. On a full charge, Suzuki eWX will have range of 230 km. Other technical details are expected to be revealed in the coming days.Similar to the existing WagonR, Suzuki eWX has a boxy profile. However, eWX is compact in size and far more adorable. It gets an exciting exterior colour theme, comprising contrasting yellow highlights across the front bumper, wheels, side cladding and windows.Suzuki eWX ConceptOther Kei car models to be showcased include the e Every concept. This is essentially a mini-commercial BEV, designed for everyday needs. It has been jointly developed by Suzuki, Toyota and Daihatsu. Another Kei car that will mark its debut will be Spacia Concept and Spacia Custom Concept. These too are also quite cute and designed to make every day commutes a lot more fun and convenient.Suzuki eWX ConceptMaruti Suzuki EVX detailsMaruti had unveiled the EVX concept for the first time at Auto Expo 2023. Since that time, a number of changes have been introduced. The updated version will be showcased at the event. EVX holds a lot of importance, as it will be Suzuki’s first global strategic EV. It will be 4,300 mm long, 1,800 mm wide and 1,600 mm tall. Range will be 500 km. It will be capable of delivering an exhilarating performance with its electronically controlled 4×4 technology.At the event, Suzuki will also be unveiling the interiors of EVX. It is expected to get features such as an integrated infotainment and digital display, vertical AC vents, a rotary controller on the centre console and a 2-spoke flat-bottom steering wheel. Maruti Suzuki EVX is expected to be launched in India in 2025. More

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      BYD Seal Launched In Thailand From 1.32 Million Baht (Rs. 30 Lakh)

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      BYD Seal sedanPrimary highlight elements for BYD Seal electric sedan are the 82.5 kWh battery, 530 bhp, 670 Nm and a 0-100 km/h acceleration in 3.8 secondsThe Chinese EV juggernaut, BYD, has launched Seal electric sedan in Thailand. The starting price is very attractive and poses a tempting proposition. BYD Seal launched in Thailand, costs between 1.325 million Baht and 1.599 million Baht for base Dynamic RWD variant and top-spec Performance AWD variant respectively.BYD Seal Launched In ThailandWith today’s currency exchange rates, Thai pricing translates to a bracket ranging between Rs. 30 lakh and Rs. 36 lakh in India. This is stellar pricing for what BYD Seal offers as a package in terms of range, performance, features and size. This vehicle is of particular importance for us there is a very good probability of it launching in India.BYD currently has two vehicles on sale in India – E6 and Atto 3. The company’s official website already features BYD Seal sedan. The car went live on Indian website some time ago. However, BYD hasn’t launched it in India and the pricing hasn’t been announced yet. We hope Indian pricing is close to Thai pricing. In Thailand, BYD gathered 1,104 bookings in just an hour.This is a 4800 mm long sedan with 1875 mm width and 1460 mm height and a 2920 mm long wheelbase. Seal electric sedan shares its e-Platform 3.0 platform with Atto 3 and Dolphin. The battery cells in this platform double up as car’s structure too. Base Dynamic RWD variant packs a smaller 61.4 kWh battery with a single 204 bhp electric motor, driving rear wheels.BYD Seal Electric dashboardRange for base variant is 510 km on a single charge and it costs 1.325 million Baht (Rs. 30 lakh). Mid-spec Premium RWD brings a larger 82.5 kWh battery and the longest range of the bunch at 650 km. Premium RWD is still a single-motor layout as the name indicates, but is capable of 313 bhp. It costs 1.449 million Baht (Rs. 32.7 lakh).530 bhp, 670 Nm, AWD, 0-100 km/h in 3.8 secondsThe top-spec Performance AWD is the most powerful variant of Seal. Performance attributes include an impressive 50:50 weight distribution, dual motor layout with AWD, 530 bhp of combined power, 670 Nm of combined torque and a 0-100 km/h sprint in just 3.8 seconds. This dual motor layout draws power from the same 82.5 kWh battery as Premium RWD variant.At just 580 km from a single charge, range is slightly less than single motor Premium RWD variant. Exterior design takes inspiration from Porsche Taycan and the sloping coupe roofline looks sophisticated too. On the inside, BYD Seal electric sedan brings a unison between practicality and high-tech appeal.BYD Seal Electric live on India websiteThe flowing lines on the dashboard remind us of Lexus LS sedan and the rotating instrument screen is noteworthy. Because of taxation between nations, BYD Seal costs just Rs. 4.5 lakh more than Chinese prices. However, BYD Seal costs EUR 50,990 in Europe (Rs. 45 lakh) and 296,800 Reals in Brazil (Rs. 49 lakh). Indian pricing could go way higher than that. Primary rivals include Kia EV6 GT AWD and BMW i4. More