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    Mahindra Thar Electric Official Teaser Confirms New Design

    Mahindra Thar.e name teasedMahindra is getting ready to unveil exciting new concepts later this month at an event in South AfricaWith over 50,000 bookings pending, Thar is one of the most popular SUVs in India right now. Popularity is off the roof and most of the newfound demand is due to the newer RWD model. One could only imagine how much more popular a new version of Thar might be.We’re not talking about 5-door Thar, which will debut in 2024. Instead, we’re talking about Thar’s electric version that will debut on August 15th in South Africa. Latest teaser reveals that Mahindra is calling it Thar.e and the company is highly likely to showcase it in concept form.Mahindra Thar Electric ?? teaser ? pic.twitter.com/hpvdseO4yJ— RushLane (@rushlane) August 5, 2023Mahindra Thar.e Concept Global DebutFrom the teasers we can see a new design language on board. This will help Mahindra market their Thar as a global SUV and not restricted to a few countries, as is the case with current Thar. In the teaser we can see a concept vehicle with a lot of design flamboyance. It is likely to get Mahindra’s new INGLO EV platform shared with BE and XUV.e series of future electric vehicles.As of now, Thar gets a rugged ladder frame chassis. Electrifying a ladder frame chassis is tedious and poses production challenges, but it is not impossible. Mahindra is reportedly working on a cost-efficient and feasible way of electrifying a ladder frame vehicle. Toyota is at it too, with electric Innova Crysta.Mahindra Thar.e name teasedMahindra Thar.e could feature either a monocoque or ladder frame. Teasers confirm the Thar.e name and nothing more than that. The company will reveal more details on August 15th. It will be India’s first fully electric lifestyle vehicle. Until MG’s Yep eSUV arrives, of course.2023 Mahindra Scorpio Pickup renderScorpio N PickupApart from Thar electric, Mahindra will also be unveiling Scorpio N pikup truck at the same event on 15th August 2023. This will be a global product and will feature a longer wheelbase than standard Scorpio N to accommodate a load bay. Scorpio N pikup could be launched in global markets before India. Engine options will be similar to Scorpio N while prices could be comparatively lower than its SUV counterpart. More

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    Pininfarina’s Pura Vision Concept: Sculpting A Glass-Roofed Masterpiece

    Pininfarina Pura Vision concept debutsPininfarina Pura Vision e-LUV Concept: An Electric Symphony of Luxury and TechItalian car design firm and coachbuilder Pininfarina has unveiled Pura Vision concept in official pictures. This is a baseline on which Pininfarina’s new electric SUV will take shape. The Luxury SUV market is an active space with legacy manufacturers craving for a piece of this pie. Mahindra owned Pininfarina just joined this race.It will go up against Rolls-Royce Cullinan, Mercedes-Benz GLS, Lamborghini Urus, Ferrari Purosangue, Aston Martin DBX, Bentley Bentayga and legacy SUV maker Land Rover’s flagship Range Rover as well. Cab-rear proportions stand out from the current crop of luxury SUVs.From Canvas to Road: Pininfarina Pura Vision Paints a Luxurious TaleThe company has showcased this electric SUV concept in official images. Pininfarina Pura Vision concept will debut at Monterey Car Week in August, alongside recently revealed Battista Edizione Nino Farina Hyper GT and another production-spec vehicle. Pininfarina calls Pura Vision concept as e-LUV (electric Luxury Utility Vehicle).It has an unmistakable presence which makes it stand out in current crop of luxury SUVs. Even in its concept phase, the striking images look like a piece of art from every angle. This dynamic identity is enhanced by a narrow glass house and wide wheel track. Body panels around its chassis channel air efficiently.Pininfarina Pura Vision concept interiorsPininfarina’s 94 year old design heritage pays off with Pura Vision concept. The roof is predominantly glass and almost reaches the rear in a single-piece fashion. The front fascia has a wide appeal with distinctive nano-fibre LED strands less than 1mm each. Window line is super aggressive, and combines sharp lines with swooping curvaceous panels.Pininfarina’s Tri-Opening Lounge Doors: A Nod to the Past, a Leap to the FutureFlared wheel arches and wide haunches scream understated aggression. Windows seem to be small in height. But it creates a futuristic appeal about Pininfarina Pura Vision. The most flashiest part of this car has to be its doors.There are three parts for the door. Pininfarina calls them tri-opening Lounge Doors and drew inspiration from Lancia Florida Sedan, which Pininfarina’s founder Battista Farina penned down. Base doors open horizontally with a rear suicide door type. While top part of the door opens like a gullwing door.In all fairness, these doors are reminiscent of Europe-bound Hiphi Y electric SUV revealed at Shanghai Auto Show recently. It’s a 2+2 seating arrangement. Pininfarina has taken care of creating an exquisite and opulent interior for its e-LUV by achieving perfect harmony between symmetry and boldness.Tri-opening Lounge DoorsIn terms of dimensions, Pininfarina Pura Vision e-LUV measures 5,215 mm in length, 2,147 mm in width (including ORVMs) and stands 1,641 mm tall. The 23″ wheels look dapper and add a lot of appeal. The chassis is carbon fibre monocoque with interesting pillar designs, which should lend sporty handling. More

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    Tata Electric Double Decker Bus Patent – India

    Tata electric double decker busSwitch already supplies double-decker electric buses for BrihanMumbai Electric Supply and Transport (BEST) – Now Tata Motors Joins the Electric Bus RaceDouble decker buses have proved to be one of the smartest mobility solutions as they take almost twice the passengers that their single-deck counterparts can seat. In a number of cases our single-deck buses are already hauling almost twice the passengers as compared to their official seating capacity.There is a novelty factor in a double-decker bus and will prove to be quite an attraction as well. Tata Motors, India’s largest commercial vehicle manufacturer is betting on this genre too and has patented its design in India. Let’s take a look.Double Decker: The New Face of Urban MobilityWe recently saw Switch EiV22 electric double-decker bus that BrihanMumbai Electric Supply and Transport (BEST) procured. The name is Switch EiV22 and it pays tribute to iconic red double-decker ICE buses of Mumbai. For India, Switch didn’t just import an electric double-decker bus from UK and call it a day.Instead, Switch transformed a 9m single-deck bus into a double-decker with extensive re-engineering of chassis, suspension and body. It is highly likely that Tata Motors will take a similar approach with its first double-decker electric bus.Tata electric double decker bus patent detailsTo have a baseline, Tata Motors already has multiple 9m and 12m electric buses in its Indian lineup. These buses are available within Ultra, Urban and Starbus range of Tata Buses. These lineups further have AC and non AC variants along with low floor options. Tata offers both 400mm low floor height variants and 900mm floor height variants as well.A couple of years ago, Tata made headlines suggesting development of quad axle buses for ultimate comfort. But the patent image shows only two axles. The patent image doesn’t look like a 12m bus. So, a 9m length bus with a double-decker layout is highly likely. The colour is red, which is a nice touch.What to Expect: Double the Space, Smart Design, Smarter CommuteA wheelbase of 4,920mm, a floor height of 900 mm, and overall width of 2,340mm is highly possible. Switch EiV22 is a 9m bus with 900mm floor height as well. So, this is likely to be a sweet spot for India and what Indian bus manufacturers seem to be aiming at. Powertrain options will probably be similar to Tata Ultra electric buses too.We’re talking about 245 kW peak power (329 bhp) and 145 kW (194 bhp) continuous power along with 3000 Nm peak torque and 1145 Nm continuous torque from its motor/generator. A large 124 kWh battery with 150 km of range and 75 km/h top speed like its Ultra 9m electric bus is probable.Tata’s 12m Starbus lineup offers 250 kWh battery with 200 km of range. Tata Electric double decker bus batteries will be scalable and Tata will offer bespoke solutions depending on orders. Export potential is high too. More

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    Made in India Tesla electric car could be priced from Rs 20 lakh

    Tesla India Factory could soon be realityAfter failed negotiations from last year, new report reveals that Tesla India factory could soon be a realityTesla is in talks with the Indian Government to set up a manufacturing facility here. A recent report mentions that Tesla is highly likely to set up a plant here instead of just importing vehicles for sale.Last year, Tesla intended to get special incentives in import taxes from the Indian Government. This was to import Tesla cars to India from abroad, most likely from their nearest manufacturing plant in China.Tesla India Factory – Could be a reality soon!Now Tesla not only intends to manufacture vehicles in India, but to make its Indian plant a global export hub. The narrative from last year and now, seems to be the result of a high-level meeting between Tesla CEO Elon Musk and Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi in the USA, last month.After this meet, Elon Musk expressed that Narendra Modi is pushing the company to invest heavily in India. He clarified that Tesla intends to invest in India and was figuring out the timing. He assured that Tesla would be operational in India as soon as humanly possible.Because Tesla’s newest plans are aligned with the “Make In India” initiative, we could see “Made In India” Tesla vehicles exported to multiple markets. Reports mention a potential production capacity of 5 lakh units per annum with starting prices from as low as Rs. 20 lakh (probably ex-sh).What to expect?If we look at Tesla’s current portfolio, which include Model S, 3, X and Y, there are no vehicles at the Rs. 20 lakh price point. Their most affordable currently, is Model 3 which starts from USD 40,240 which roughly translates to INR 33 lakh with today’s conversion rates. Tesla is working on launching a smaller electric car, which will sit below the Model 3.It is likely that India will get this car. So, if the Rs. 20 lakh price point turns out to be a reality, we could be looking at an India-specific vehicle that will be the company’s most affordable. This could be a new milestone for Tesla and could benefit the brand in other ASEAN countries too. To get its maiden vehicle at this price point, Tesla could heavily invest in local battery manufacturing as well.India’s charging infra could see a huge boost if Tesla intends to invest in its Supercharger network too. All in all, India is climbing up the ranks and becoming a global automotive hub.Source More

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    MG Launches Upgraded ZS EV: A Game-Changer in the Electric SUV Segment

    2023 MG ZS EV with Level 2 ADAS – LaunchedMG Motor Introduces India’s First Pure-Electric Internet SUV – ZS EV with Autonomous Level-2 (ADAS)MG Motor India, known for its British heritage, has launched an upgraded version of its ZS EV, making it India’s first pure-electric internet SUV with Autonomous Level-2 (ADAS) capabilities. Priced at Rs. 27.89 Lakh for a limited time, the ZS EV combines electric power, internet connectivity, and autonomous features, offering an exceptional driving experience.Enhanced MG ZS EV: Redefining Electric Mobility in India with Advanced ADAS TechnologyThe ZS EV’s ADAS technology comes with 17 features categorized into three levels of sensitivity and warning, providing assistance and safety in various driving situations. The Traffic Jam Assist (TJA) ensures a smooth driving experience in congested traffic, while the Forward Collision Warning (FCW) alerts the driver of potential collisions and applies autonomous deceleration if necessary.2023 MG ZS EV with Level 2 ADAS – LaunchedThe Speed Assist System (SAS) prevents overspeeding, and the Lane Functions help prevent unintentional lane deviation. The Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC) enhances convenience and safety by maintaining a proper distance from the vehicle ahead.According to Mr. Gaurav Gupta, Deputy Managing Director of MG Motor India, the ZS EV with ADAS underscores the company’s commitment to electric mobility and a sustainable future. By offering an attractive and accessible electric SUV, MG Motor India aims to accelerate the transition to zero-emission vehicles and support the EV ecosystem in India.[embedded content]The ZS EV features an evolved battery that meets stringent safety and performance requirements. It complies with IP69K for better dust and water resistance, and it has a UL2580 Safety Management System and an ASIL-D Enhanced Safety Integrity Level rating. The SUV also offers versatile charging options, including DC Super-Fast Chargers at dealerships, AC Fast Chargers for home and office installation, and charge-on-the-go with RSA (Roadside Assistance).2023 MG ZS EV with Level 2 ADAS – LaunchedEmbracing the Future of Electric Driving: MG ZS EV with ADAS and Prismatic Battery TechnologyWith its advanced prismatic battery, the ZS EV delivers a range of 461 km on a single charge, offering an extended driving range and confidence for longer journeys. The SUV’s total cost of ownership is competitive, with running costs as low as 60 paise/km, leading to substantial savings over three years compared to SUVs with internal combustion engines.The ZS EV showcases a futuristic design with full LED Hawkeye headlamps, R17 Tomahawk alloy wheels, and an array of colors to choose from. Inside, the SUV offers a comfortable and aesthetic cabin with features like a full digital cluster, a segment-leading HD touchscreen infotainment system, and a first-in-segment rear AC vent.2023 MG ZS EV with Level 2 ADAS – LaunchedIn terms of safety, the ZS EV provides a 360-degree around view camera, rear parking sensors, Hill Descent Control (HDC), six airbags, electronic stability control, a tyre pressure monitoring system, and hill-start assist.The ZS EV is powered by an 8-layer hairpin motor delivering 176PS of power and offering three driving modes: Eco, Normal, and Sport. To enhance the ownership experience, MG Motor India offers the MG e-SHIELD program, which includes warranty extensions, RSA extensions, and maintenance plans at competitive prices.With the launch of the enhanced ZS EV, MG Motor India aims to provide a compelling electric vehicle option in India, promoting eco-friendly mobility and meeting the evolving needs of Indian consumers. More

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    Electric Car Gets Stranded – As Battery Pack Falls Off While Driving

    Electric car battery falls on roadMost new technologies take years to perfect, which seems to be the case with battery swapping systems in use with EVsWhen evaluating all that can go wrong with an EV, the first thoughts are about the vehicle catching fire. It’s only natural, as such cases are reported frequently. The other most common fear is about getting stranded with a drained battery pack.Now, a new problem seems to have emerged for EVs that rely on swappable battery tech. This latest incident involves a Geely Cao Cao 60 SUV that dropped its battery pack on the road while driving on a busy highway. Thankfully, no one was hurt in this incident. However, it raises questions about the safety of EVs that use swappable battery tech.Electric car battery falls on roadEV ejects battery pack while driving – what went wrong?This latest EV incident occurred in Chengdu on the Second Ring Road. It involved a Cao Cao 60 electric SUV. These EVs are being used as part of Geely’s ride-hailing service named Cao Cao Mobility. The battery pack can be seen lying on the road, while the SUV is left stranded in the middle of the highway. There’s nothing the driver can do except wait for assistance. Both the SUV and the battery pack will probably need to be transported to a repair shop or the nearest swapping station.There can be multiple reasons that could have caused this incident. The battery pack’s top and bottom surfaces seem to be using thick sheets of metal. It could also be a composite carbon fibre material to achieve a lightweight profile. Multiple holes can be seen, which indicates that the battery pack is secured to the EV’s underbelly using fasteners. It could even be a quick release clamping system to achieve faster battery swaps.[embedded content]It is likely that the battery swapping was not performed as per the instruction’s manual. The fasteners could be loose, which could have eventually loosened further due to vibrations. EV battery packs are quite heavy, which can put significant stress on the fasteners. For reference Tesla Model S battery pack weighs more than half a ton.Major accident avertedAn EV losing its battery pack while driving on a busy highway could have led to a serious accident. There could have been a multiple vehicle collision, as the SUV came to a halt in the middle of the highway. The large battery pack lying on the road is another risk factor. Thankfully, no such incidents happened.Battery swapping offers benefits such as quick refuelling. Users don’t need to pay for the cost of the battery pack. Battery swapping allows taxis to spend more time on the road, rather than waiting at a charging station. Hopefully, this case of the battery falling off while driving is just a one-time anomaly. Geely will probably find a permanent fix, after conducting the necessary investigations. More

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    Small Electric Car From France Spied In India – MG Comet Rival

    Small Electric Car From FranceLigier Mygi electric car in its current state of European specifications delivers up to 123 km rangeIf you are a motorsport enthusiast, you must have heard of the French company Ligier. Especially for association with 24-Hour Le Mans races between 1970 and 1975 and Formula 1 racing between 1976 and 1996. Even though Ligier wanted to make a new sports car for the 50th anniversary, micro electric cars and CVs (Ligier Professional) are all they make right now.You must be wondering why we’re talking about a French company out of the blue. Reason is that Ligier seems to be willing to launch its most affordable model Mygi in India. Testing has commenced on Indian roads already. This is a 3-door micro electric car like the MG Comet. As of now, MG Comet is one of its kind in India and Ligier seems to have sniffed out an opportunity.Small Electric Car From FranceLigier Mygi Electric CarIndia is currently one of the fastest-growing countries in the world. Automotive market has seen unprecedented growth as well, with more people investing in personal vehicles than ever before. EVs are seeing spectacular growth too in 2W, 3W and 4W segments. As of now, there are 28 electric cars on sale in India.MG Comet is the smallest and the most affordable among these 28. Prices start from Rs. 7.98 lakh and go till Rs. 9.98 lakh (both prices ex-sh). This pricing is because MG assembles Comet in its Gujarat facility. This route only attracts 15% customs duty as opposed to 60% with CBU models. Also, MG has stressed on localisation too, which is up to 60% with Comet.Ligier Mygi electric carUnless Ligier is manufacturing Mygi or even assembling it in India, the price point is likely to be against it. Speaking of the Ligier Mygi electric car, it is currently the most affordable vehicle from the brand in PV space. Prices start from EUR 13,995 and go till EUR 21,695. In today’s currency conversion, it translates to Rs. 12.57 lakh to Rs. 19.49 lakh.What does it pack?Ligier Mygi electric car is on offer in four different trim levels in Europe. They are G.OOD, I.DEAL, E.PIC and R.EBEL. The first two trims get 63 km of range from a single charge. Base G.OOD offers 13” steel wheels, no audio system, but offers all-four disc brakes. I.DEAL adds 14” alloy wheels and a 1-DIN audio system.Top two trim levels feature an extended range of 123 km, 15” alloys, 10” touchscreen system with Android Auto and Apple CarPlay, a reverse camera and a few design additions. Even the extended 123 km range is kind of short, especially when MG Comet offers 230 km of claimed range.Source More

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    Tata Nexon Electric Celebrates 50k Sales Milestone In 3 Yrs

    Tata Nexon EV Cross 50K Sales markThe highest-selling electric car in India is Tata Nexon EV – sales recently crossed 50K units milestone signifying its immense popularityIn a country like India where there is very little exposure to electric mobility, EV sales have grown substantially in recent years. We have observed a similar growth pattern in both 2W, 3W and 4W vehicles used for both commercial and private applications. At the forefront of this EV revolution in 4W space, is Tata Nexon EV.Since its launch in Jan 2020, Nexon EV has been the most popular 4W EV by a big margin. Sales numbers stand testament to this unprecedented growth as it recently touched the 50K sales mark since the past three years. Tata Motors proudly celebrates #NexonEV50KCommunity.Tata Nexon EV Sales – 50K Strong and countingNexon EV has managed to transform the perspective of EVs in India. There was a time when EVs were considered too small and not at all desirable. But not anymore. Tata Nexon EV is a daily-driveable vehicle with a real-world range of 150 to 300 km from a single charge. ICE Nexon’s familiar design made the transition that much smoother.With time, Tata Motors has taken good strides in expanding the Nexon EV lineup. It now includes Nexon EV Max with a larger 40.5 kWh battery with a real-world range of around 300 km. Tata has introduced a less expensive base trim with Nexon EV Max – making the EV accessible to a wider audience.New Updated Nexon EV Max XZ+ LUX TrimCommenting on this milestone, Mr. Vivek Srivatsa, Head, Marketing, Sales and Service Strategy, Tata Passenger Electric Mobility Ltd., said, “The Nexon EV was introduced as India’s own electric SUV with the aim of offering a cool, stylish, practical and real-world solution for faster EV adoption in India. The Nexon EV customers have grown to 50K in just 3 years.This is a testament to how India has embraced EVs as the mobility of the current times. We would like to thank the early adopters, who believed in the promise of the Nexon EV and in-turn allowed the EV ecosystem to build and become what it is now. We hope more people experience the promise of an EV and evolve to electric.”How far has India’s EV infra arrived?Even though there are still voes with EV owners in India, India’s EV charging infrastructure has come a long way as well. There are around 6,000 charging stations in the country today and growing fast. Growth rate is around 1500% between FY21 and FY23, which signifies faster expansion of the charging network.On average, Nexon EV owners drive around 6.3 million km in a month including city commutes and outstations. That will increase in the future. As of now, Nexon EV has contributed to 15% of total Nexon sales, which is commendable considering Nexon ICE is the highest-selling SUV in India. Tata Motors holds around 80% of 4W EV market share in India with MG in second and Mahindra in third place. Tata Motors is set to launch an electrified version of Altroz, Punch, Curvv, Harrier, Safari and Sierra in the future. More