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      Citroen C3 Aircross Electric 7 Seater SUV Spied For 1st Time?

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      Citroen C3 Aircross Electric Spied?When launched, Citroen eC3 Aircross could pack close to 40 kWh battery, enabling a range of around 450 km on a single chargeThe French brand hatched C-Cubed strategy to tackle the tricky Indian automotive market. This plan involved targeting mainstream segments that generate the most volumes in India and heavy localization of up to 95%. We got C3 Hatchback, its electric derivative eC3 and recently, C3 Aircross 7-seater compact SUV.At the C3 Aircross debut event, Citroen had expressed its intention of launching an electrified version of its 7-seater compact SUV. Now, Citroen seems to have commenced testing of eC3 Aircross. This will be India’s first sub Rs. 20 lakh electric 7-seater.Citroen eC3 Aircross Spied Testing?Automotive enthusiast Venkat Ram spotted this test mule in Chennai recently and shared the same on Rushlane Spylane Facebook group. In the short video, this test mule is fully draped in camouflage despite debuting already. At first glance, it looks like a regular Citroen C3 Aircross test mule.On keener inspection, we can see its battery module jutting out of its skateboard. We saw something similar in our first drive impressions of eC3. But on the eC3 hatchback, a 29.2 kWh battery module is only visible from the side and not from the rear. On the recent test mule, a battery pack is evident from the rear as well.[embedded content]This could be an indication of a larger battery spread out till the rear. So, a 40 kWh battery could be possible, considering the smaller Nexon EV Max gets a 40.5 kWh battery. The test mule dons a temporary registration plate dated 2021, which seems to be in line with Citroen’s product development as the first set of eC3 test mules are believed to be registered in 2020.What will it pack other than an electric powertrain?Everything Citroen offers on C3 Aircross and some more. For starters, Citroen eC3 Aircross will pack the same interiors as its ICE counterpart along with a drive selector and center console from eC3 Hatchback. So, a 10.2” horizontal touchscreen infotainment display with wireless Android Auto and Apple CarPlay, a digital driver’s display, and steering-mounted controls will be on offer.Apart from these, roof-mounted rear AC vents, an option between seven and five seating layouts, quirky styling, swanky 17” alloy wheels, roof rails, and LED DRLs are highly likely. While at it, we hope Citroen throws in LED headlights, LED fog lamps, cruise control, keyless entry, and probably even a sunroof, considering how trendy it is in India.Launch Price Around Rs 15-20 Lakh?Hyundai is testing an electrified Creta to launch in India. It could share powertrains with Kona EV and will rival Mahindra XUV400, MG ZS EV and to some extent, the smaller Tata Nexon EV Max. Citroen eC3 Aircross will lock horns with these EVs when launched. It can offer a claimed range of about 450 km and a real-world range of 350 km.The Ace in this French car maker’s sleeve will definitely be quirky styling and 7 seats (5+2). Current eC3 hatchback costs between Rs. 11.50 lakh and Rs. 12.43 lakh. Which is around Rs. 5 lakh over its ICE counterparts. If ICE C3 Aircross starts from Rs. 8.5 to Rs. 9 lakh, eC3 Aircross is likely to cost from around Rs. 16 lakh (all prices ex-sh). More

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      MG Comet Based YEP Electric SUV Fully Revealed – Launch Soon

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      MG Comet based Yep electric SUVBased on the MG Comet, dispatches of Yep electric SUV have commenced to Baojun dealers in China ahead of launchTo take on the global bestseller Suzuki Jimny, SAIC-GM-Wuling have come up with the Baojun Yep mini electric car. It was expected to debut at 2023 Shanghai Auto Show, but it gave it a miss. However, launch is expected soon, as new units have started reaching Baojun dealerships in China.Baojun Yep is a 3-door mini car, with capacity to seat four passengers. It seems suitable for everyday commuting needs and can also handle mild off-road environments. Details about its off-road capabilities are yet to be revealed.Baojun Yep mini-EV – Styling and featuresCompared side-by-side, it is easy to see the various similarities between Baojun Yep mini-EV and 3-door Jimny sold in international markets. Jimny-inspired styling is evident across the front grille section, front bumper and squared wheel arches. However, Baojun Yep’s bodywork appears curvier and aerodynamic in comparison to that of Jimny. Baojun Yep has futuristic-looking headlamps, as compared to round headlamps of Jimny. Roof section is unique for both cars, with Baojun Yep getting a more conventional flat roof with roof rails.Dimensionally, Baojun Yep is 3,381 mm long, 1,685 mm wide, 1,721 mm tall and has a wheelbase of 2,110 mm. In comparison, 3-door Jimny is slightly longer (3,395 mm) and taller (1,725 mm). Wheelbase is also longer at 2,250 mm. However, Jimny is just 1,475 mm wide. That means Baojun Yep could be more spacious on the inside.MG Comet based Yep electric SUVBaojun Yep has a unique rear profile. Top-spec variants will be equipped with ‘car-watch’ at rear, which features a 300 x 256 mm digital screen. Car-watch is shaped like a watch with a strap and the digital screen is placed on the left side. The strap is 1050 mm long and 260 mm wide and can be customized with various colour and design options.MG Comet based Yep electric SUVThe digital screen can be used to display a wide variety of pictures, DIY text and videos. While the car-watch feature seems interesting, it can actually be a distraction for other road users. The rear digital screen can also display warnings for hazards on the road.Baojun Yep will be available in five exciting colour options. The Sunrise, Early Morning, Cloud, Neon and Deep Space colour options represent the various shades of a 24-hour cycle. These colour options are essentially Yellow, Green, White, Pink and Black. There is no dual-tone colour option for Baojun Yep.MG Comet based Yep electric SUV – ColoursInside, Baojun Yep has a large curved screen with the instrumentation on the left and infotainment section on the right. At the centre, there’s a cartoon character that works as the digital assistant. The car has a large, round steering wheel, quite different from the usual flat-bottom or square-shaped steering wheels seen with cars in China.Baojun Yep range, specsBaojun Yep is equipped with a 28.1 kWh LFP battery. It connects to a single electric motor that churns out 68 hp of max power and 140 Nm of peak torque. Top speed is rated at 100 kmph. Baojun Yep can travel 303 kilometres on a full charge (based on CLTC).Baojun Yep will be available at a starting price of around 90,000 Yuan, which is approximately Rs 10.64 lakh. As far as India launch possibility is concerned, there is no clarity at this point of time. As EVs are registering strong growth, Baojun Yep can be considered for the Indian market. MG Motor has already launched the Comet EV at a starting price of Rs 7.98 lakh. It can also bring Baojun Yep to India. More

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      Hyundai Creta Electric Spied While Charging Battery Pack

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      Hyundai Creta Electric spied at a charging station in HaryanaThe same electric powertrain on Kona EV is likely to feature on the Hyundai Electric Creta – 327V architecture, 39.2 kWh battery, 134 bhp and 395 NmConverting ICE vehicles to EV has worked wonders in India. It is cost-effective and negates design, development and manufacturing of new vehicles. Tata follows the same strategy for its entire EV lineup. Mahindra employs a similar strategy with its XUV400, and soon to be launched XUV800.It seems like Hyundai is getting ready to offer us a new EV based on a similar strategy. Spy shots of a Creta EV on test have emerged on the internet. Considering that Creta is the best-selling Hyundai car on offer in India, it makes logical sense for them to launch an EV version of Creta. When launched, Hyundai is likely to price it from around Rs 20 lakh (ex-sh).Hyundai Electric Creta Test MuleLatest test mule of the Hyundai Creta EV was spotted in Karnal, Haryana. Hat tip to automotive enthusiast Manpreet for the exclusive spy shots. In these images, we can see a Hyundai Creta EV test mule hooked up to an EV charging station.For starters, there is no camouflage. Also, Hyundai is likely to offer different front and rear bumpers to establish design differences from its ICE counterpart. Creta EV test mule donned outgoing ICE-car bumpers as of now, but the production-spec version will be highly inspired by the recently spied Creta facelift test mule.Hyundai Creta Electric spied at a charging station in HaryanaAs this is a make-shift test model, there is no proper charging port. Hence, the engineers connected the charging cable by opening the bonnet. The production model will come equipped with a charging port, likely to be in the front.Powertrains shared with outgoing Kona EV?Looking at the front charging port configuration, we can’t help but wonder whether Hyundai electric Creta shares its powertrain with Kona EV on offer in India. Hyundai’s E-GMP platform underpinning the Ioniq 5, Ioniq 6 and Kia EV6 gets a charging port around the rear-right fender.If Kona EV’s powertrain is likely, we’re looking at a 327V architecture, 39.2 kWh battery coupled with a 134 bhp and 395 Nm electric motor. Hyundai claims 452 km of range on a single charge with Kona EV. Hyundai Creta Electric could have very similar power output and range specs.Hyundai Creta EV battery pack can be seen protruding in the spy shotOn the inside, it will be feature loaded with tech and safety. We’re talking about a panoramic sunroof, powered driver’s seat, ventilated front seats, a large infotainment screen with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, digital driver’s display, 6 airbags, ADAS features among others. When launched, it will rival the likes of MG ZS EV, Mahindra XUV400 and Nexon EV Max. More

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      MG Maxus 9 Electric MPV Launch Price 2.5m THB (Rs. 60 Lakh)

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      MG Maxus 9 (Maxus Mifa 9)The 90 kWh battery pack on MG Maxus 9 is good for 540 km of range on a single charge with 245 bhp and 350 Nm motor and FWD layout
      MG Maxus 9 EV is launched in Thailand. The British brand has badge-engineered a Maxus Mifa 9 (showcased at 2023 Auto Expo in India) as Maxus 9. Scratched your head? Yes, Maxus is the name of the manufacturer that made the vehicle, Mifa 9. In Thailand, MG has chosen the name of the manufacturer as the name of the model.
      MG Maxus 9 EV Launched In Thailand
      Except for branding, every square inch is identical between Maxus Mifa 9 and MG Maxus 9. MG has priced Maxus 9 between 2.499 million Baht for base X trim and 2.699 million Baht for top-spec V trim in Thailand. Today’s currency exchange translates to a price between Rs. 60 lakh and Rs. 65 lakh.
      MG Maxus 9 Electric MPV
      This is what a Fortuner costs in Karnataka, on-road. For the money, MG Maxus 9 is a 5,270 mm long, 2000 mm wide, 1,840 mm tall fully electric mini-van with a 3,200 mm long wheelbase, automatic sliding doors, and a tonne of tech and gadgetry. We hope MG brings in Mifa 7 instead of this to India.
      High on features and creature comforts
      For starters, MG Maxus 9 is completely identical to Maxus Mifa 9. it is a futuristic fully-electric minivan. The front fascia has sleek LED DRL elements at the top and LED headlights below them. There are strong vertical design elements that lend a lot of aggression. Rear LED tail light signature mimics its face. Reminds me of representation of humans in cavemen’s drawings. Once you see it, you can’t unsee it.
      Seating layout
      Owing to its minivan body style, it has an impressive greenhouse and acres of space on the inside. Speaking on the inside, MG Maxus 9 is fairly minimalistic and techy at the same time. Dashboard has two iPad-like displays with rounded corners. One for instrumentation and other for driver’s display. Front seats are powered, ventilated and massaging as well.
      MG Maxus 9 Electric MPV – Sunroof
      MG has integrated AC controls into a touch-sensitive panel below infotainment screen. 2nd-row individual captain chairs are Maxus 9’s forte. These are powered, heated, ventilated, and massage function enabled. Both 2nd-row seats get calf rests, individual armrests and cup holders, individual wireless charging pads and individual digital displays to control respective seat functions and individual foldable tables.
      There is a single-pane sunroof for front occupants and a panoramic sunroof for 2nd and 3rd row occupants. Automatic sliding doors, leather seats, soft-touch interior trims with intricate stitching, ambient lights with 64 colours, dedicated rear climate zone, 12 speaker audio system, 9 USB ports, IRVM with rear camera feed, PM 2.5 air filter are notable elements.
      Luxurious Lounge Seats
      Electrifying powertrain
      MG Maxus 9 comes equipped with a 90 kWh battery coupled with a 245 bhp and 350 Nm single motor FWD architecture. NEDC certified range is up to 540 km on a single charge. An 11 kW AC charger takes the battery from 5%-100% in 8.5 hours and 120 kW DC fast charging allows battery to go from 30%-80% in 30 minutes.
      Because it is an EV, there is a small front boot (Fruit?). 19” alloys with run-flat tyres, ADAS suite, electronic parking brake, TPMS, driver monitoring system, 360-degree camera with high resolution feed are other notable features. In Thailand, MG is offering three different colours namely Pearl White, Black Knight and Concrete Grey/Black Roof. More

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      Electric 3W Sales FY 2023 Cross 4 Lakh – Mahindra, Piaggio, YC, Saera

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      Image for illustration purpose only.Mahindra and YC Electric along with Saera and Dilli commanded the E3W segment in March 2023
      Electric three wheeler sales, like electric two wheelers and passenger vehicles, has seen outstanding growth over the past two years. This industry is on an up-swing with the electrification trend set to create a cleaner and greener future for the country. Apart from big players such as Mahindra and YC Electric along with Saera and Dilli, there are several new-comings jumping into the fray to gain a share in the electric three wheeler segment.
      Electric 3W sales hits 4.04 lakh units in FY 2023
      Taking into account electric three wheeler sales during the FY 2023 period, it was a 118.25 percent growth to 4,04,143 units in FY 2023 from 1,85,173 units sold in FY 2022. YC Electric was the best-selling 3 wheeler maker during the past financial year with 29,902 units sold, up 75.41 percent over 17,047 units sold in FY 2022. It was followed by Saera with 22,259 unit retail sales in FY 2023, up 151.83 percent over 8,839 units sold in FY 2022.
      Electric 3W sales FY 2023 – FADA
      Mahindra and Dilli also posted triple digit sales growth at 278.44 percent and 148.73 percent in FY 2023 to 18,608 units and 16,909 units respectively. Mahindra retail sales of electric three wheelers also surged by 107.54 percent to 16,682 units in FY 2023 from 8,038 units sold in FY 2022. There was also Champion Poly Plast with 14,012 units sold last financial year, up 86.13 percent from 7,528 units sold in FY 2022 and Mini Metro with 12,174 units sold in FY 2023, up 182.39 percent from 4,311 units sold in FY 2022.
      Retail sales list of electric three wheelers in FY 2023 also included Unique (10,761 units), Piaggio (9,664 units), Terra Motors (8,101 units), JS Auto (8,086 units) and Energy Electric (7,254 units) with each posting YoY growth. Other OEMs in the electric three wheeler segment added 2,29,731 units to total retail sales in FY 2023 up 112.77 percent when compared to 1,07,972 units sold in FY 2022.
      Electric 3W sales FY 2023 – FADA
      Electric 3W Sales in March 2023
      Sales of electric three wheelers saw an 82.21 percent YoY growth in March 2023. Sales which had stood at 24,823 units in March 2022 surged to 45,229 units in March 2023. It was also a MoM growth of 26.81 percent from 35,667 units sold in Feb 2023.
      Electric 3W sales March 2023 vs March 2022 – YoY Analysis. FADA
      Mahindra was a lead seller in this segment with 3,538 unit retail sales in the past month. This was a 312.84 percent YoY growth from 857 units sold in March 2022. MoM sales also improved by 71.83 percent from 2,059 units sold in Feb 2023. Following close behind at No. 2 was YC Electric with sales of 3,095 units in March 2023. This was a YoY growth of 27.95 percent over 2,419 units sold in March 2022 and a MoM growth of 19.82 percent from 2,583 units sold in Feb 2023.
      At No. 3 was Saera Electric with 2,244 units sold in March 2023, up 74.09 percent from 1,289 units sold in March 2022. There had also been 1,839 units sold in Feb 2023 relating to a 22.02 percent MoM growth. Retail sales of Dilli Electric also increased greatly by 115.14 percent YoY and 34.88 percent MoM to 2,061 units while sales of Piaggio also improved by 194.65 percent YoY and 35.86 percent MoM to 1,432 units in March 2023.
      Electric 3W sales March 2023 vs Feb 2023 – MoM Analysis. FADA
      Lower down the order was Champion Poly Plast (1,310 units), Mini Metro (1,265 units), and Unique International (1,149 units), each posting outstanding YoY and MoM growth in electric 3W sales. De-growth was reported by Mahindra Reva to 937 units in March 2023, down 22.50 percent when compared to 1,209 units sold in March 2022. MoM sales also dipped 41.84 percent over 1,611 units sold in Feb 2023. There was also Allfine Industries (863 units), JS Auto (829 units) and Hostage Corp (782 units) each of which have reported YoY and MoM growth in retail sales. There were others in this segment that contributed 25,724 units to total retail sales last month. This was an 80.20 percent YoY and 29.15 percent MoM growth from sales in March 2022 and Feb 2023. More

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      Tata vs MG Electric Cars: An Advertising War for Your Attention

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      Tata vs MGTata vs. MG: The Electric Car War of Words – Advertisement Get Creative – Join the Debate
      The advertising war between auto manufacturers is an interesting phenomenon that has been going on for years. In this case, we have jabs being traded over 2 respective electric vehicles.
      What started as a single image shared by a Tata dealership on Facebook, has taken on a life of its own during the course of the day. The launch of the MG Comet micro EV has sparked a new advertising war. And it keeps the focus on electric cars. The marketing messages used on behalf of both companies reflect the growing conversations around electric vehicles, and the need to distinguish oneself in the marketplace.
      Tata and MG: A Battle of Electric Proportions
      “Own a car vs not a cartoon,” was the first find of the day. Highlighting the practicality of their electric cars. The word “car” suggests that Tata is offering a legitimate mode of transportation, while the word “cartoon” implies that the MG Comet is not a serious option. It likely plays on notions of being a more serious choice, as opposed to a quirky and playful vehicle like the MG Comet. Aka cartoon in this instance.
      In response, the ongoing banter now positions the Comet as a new, modern, and technologically advanced option with their messaging “Ice age vs new age.” The word “ice age” suggests that Tata’s cars are outdated and old-fashioned, while “new age” implies that MG’s cars are futuristic and cutting-edge. MG is targeting customers who are looking for a stylish and cool car that stands out from the crowd. It positions MG Comet EV as a modern and forward-thinking option. It’s a clever play on words that plays on the idea of a technological revolution from the Ice Age to the New Age.
      Tata vs MG
      Electric Car Advertising 101: Tata and MG Get Competitive
      The messaging “Old school vs new cool” is a further attempt to position MG Comet as a modern and trendy car. The word “old school” could suggest that Tata’s cars are traditional, outdated, and reminiscent of the past, while “new cool” implies that MG’s cars are modern and fashionable. And thereby targeting customers who are looking for a car that reflects their personality and sense of style.
      The notion “taxi or tech” is another dig at Tata, suggesting that their cars are only good for commercial use, while MG’s cars are high-tech and trendy. Probably to click with those who want a car that is not only functional but also represents their lifestyle and values.
      Tata’s Taxi Cars vs. MG’s Sexy EVs: Electric Car Marketing Heats Up
      Finally, “say tata to taxi vs drive something sexy” sounds a bit more like a direct challenge to Tata’s brand image. The word “taxi” suggests that Tata’s cars are taxis / cabs, while “sexy” implies that MG’s cars are sleek, stylish, and desirable.
      These marketing messages are all about positioning respective brands in trying to distinguish themselves, and capture a share of the growing electric car market. If you are in the market for an electric car, take a test drive, weigh your options, and make an informed decision that suits your lifestyle and values. More

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      MG Comet EV Review: A Comprehensive Analysis of the New Mini Smart Electric Car

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      MG Comet EV ReviewComet EV by MG: Bold Design, Unconventional Aesthetics, a New Segment in the Indian Automotive Market
      Creation of a new segment in the automotive market is a daunting task. It’s not something that can be achieved easily. Over the past 15 years, EMs have attempted to break into this market with varying degrees of success. Despite their efforts, none of them have been able to make a significant impact. And success has been elusive. Reva kicked up a storm but when the dust settled, there were none to be seen. Add to this the lack of infrastructure and government support in the early days.
      Today, the market poses new challenges. And we’re excited to see that MG has decided to make a serious attempt by introducing Comet to the Indian market. I had a chance to get behind the wheel during the media drive, and could sense the excitement building up within me as I took the Comet through City streets.
      MG Comet EV: The Quirky Electric small car with Smart Features
      The Comet is a unique vehicle that can be categorised as a 3-door mini hatchback, kei-car, micro car, micro EV, or quadricycle-like. In my experience, when I first saw it, I couldn’t help but compare it to the compact cars in Japan, Kei cars. It had a similar vibe, but with a fully modern tech upgrade. In the Indian market, the Comet’s dimensions may remind one of dated cars like Tata Nano and Mahindra e2O. Despite its small size, it boasts seating capacity for 4 adults, which is impressive. The Comet draws power from a 17.3 kWh battery pack and claims to offer a range of 230kms, which works well for daily city commutes.
      Along with its small dimensions, Comet has a highly polarizing design. Some might find it cute, stylish or clutter-breaking, while others may not appreciate its unconventional aesthetics. In my experience, the young are excited by its unique design and expressed their interest in driving one. On the other hand, older folks were genuinely curious. The design may appeal more to Millennials or GenZ customers, while an older audience might ask more questions due to its size. This makes sense as the older gen had fewer car owners, and the only car in the family had to be a family car that was to occupy the garage for years. Times have changed.
      MG Comet EV Prices – bookings open 15th May 2023. Deliveries start soon after.
      In my experience, I found the Comet to be quite visually appealing. Its functional tall boy design and neo-modern design theme stand out. The horizontal light bars at the front and rear are eye-catching and add a unique touch to the car’s overall look. Additionally, the illuminated MG logo at the bonnet is a nice touch that adds to the car’s stylish appearance.
      MG Comet EV: A Micro Car that Seats Four
      MG Comet is a 3-door mini hatchback/car, featuring two wide doors on each side. The car’s neo-modern design is carried over into the interiors, with a white and light grey color scheme that gives the cabin a spacious appearance. The generous glass panels allow ample natural light to enter the cabin, creating an airy and open feel despite the car’s compact size. However, the light colors used in the interior might require regular cleaning and maintenance, especially in polluted and dusty city environments.
      Comet offers a decent seating capacity with front seats spacious enough to accommodate regular-sized adults. However, in my personal experience, I found the seats lacking in comfort and could have benefited from better upholstery. On the positive side, Comet provides steering rake adjustment to tailor to one’s comfort, although there is no reach setting available.
      MG Comet EV Launched
      To access the rear seats, one needs to fold down the front seats and climb in. The co-passenger seat has a one-touch tumble and movement functionality, although it takes around 2-3 inputs. Getting in from the driver’s side is a bit more challenging, though. The back seats can comfortably accommodate two adults for short drives of around 30-40 minutes. However, anything beyond an hour could be a little difficult, as the lack of thigh support might make it uncomfortable for longer journeys. As for the boot space, it is almost non-existent. The rear seats have a 50:50 split and can be folded down to create room for two large suitcases.
      In terms of features, as expected from an MG, Comet comes with a decent list of creature comforts. It boasts a 10-inch all-digital instrument cluster, a 10-inch touchscreen infotainment system (with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility), i-Smart functionality, and much more.
      MG Comet EV Launched
      Some key call-outs would be the unique Apple iPod Shuffle inspired steering mounted controls, which caught my attention and added a touch of quirkiness to the overall design. The voice command feature is a great addition, as it is not only tuned for English but also Hinglish, making it more user-friendly for the Indian market. The manual AC is decently powerful and does the job of keeping the cabin cool in most weather conditions.
      MG Comet EV: The Urban Car That’s Fun to Drive
      Comet is a perfect fit for city commutes, and MG is not shy about calling it one. The electric hatchback is equipped with three drive modes: Eco, Normal, and Sports, with each mode providing a faster acceleration than the previous one. However, even the Eco mode provides enough power for most in-city maneuvers, and switching to Sports mode may not be necessary for overtaking other vehicles. The Comet’s electric motor generates 42 PS of power and 110 Nm of torque, which is impressive for its size and intended use.
      MG Comet EV Review
      The Comet is stable when driven in a straight line, but it can feel a bit shaky when pushed to its limits due to the small 12-inch wheels. It’s best to adopt a cautious driving style and avoid any sudden or aggressive maneuvers. The steering feedback is decent, and the brakes have good bite and stopping power.
      When it comes to the NVH levels, you may find yourself wishing for better insulation, particularly from a well-known brand like MG. The road noise can be considerable, and the whirring of the electric motor is also clearly audible. Moreover, the horn feels as if it’s placed right inside the cabin, which is partly true since the car’s compact design practically leaves no space for a long bonnet.
      MG Comet EV Review
      MG Comet compact car: The Perfect Fit for City Commutes
      MG claims that Comet has a certified range of 230kms. However, as with most range claims, they come with an ideal conditions disclaimer, and we don’t think that the practical range will go beyond 160-180 kms. In our driving experience, we managed a range of around 120 kms, which included considerable idling (stopping to film and shoot with AC on during the not yet peak Delhi summer heat), and generous use of the Sports mode.
      The range itself may not be much of an issue as Comet is being marketed as a regular city EV. However, the lack of fast charging capability is a major drawback. MG is offering a 3.3 kW charger, which can take the battery from 10 to 80 percent in 5 hours, while a full charge takes 7 hours. With public fast charging infrastructure coming up in key cities, the absence of fast charging functionality could be a disadvantage for Comet owners.
      MG Comet EV Review
      The Comet offers dual front airbags, ABS + EBD, ISOFIX mounts, TPMS, and an IP67 rated battery, which are all good safety features. However, we should note that as of now, there are no crash test reports available for the Comet.
      MG Comet EV: The Stylish Micro Car that everyone’s talking about
      There are several positives about the Comet, although there are also some areas where it falls short. Firstly, the indicated range of the car doesn’t seem to vary much when switching between different drive modes. Additionally, the NVH levels could be improved with better insulation. The lack of fast charging capability is questionable, especially considering the current availability of public fast charging infrastructure. Lastly, the 12-inch wheels don’t inspire much confidence in the driver.
      MG Comet EV Review
      Despite the mentioned shortcomings, the Comet is a practical urban car that can be a suitable option as a second vehicle in a household with a larger ICE sedan or SUV. It may be a choice as a first or only car for younger folks who prefer a comfy and practical ride over a 2W.
      In my opinion, the Comet from MG is an excellent option for those who typically drive solo (drives to office daily) or with just one passenger (school run) and have a daily driving route of around 40-50 km. This could take care of a quick round for daily chores too. When I was in the market for a new car, I was specifically looking for something that was affordable and practical, and the Comet seemed to tick all the boxes.
      MG Comet EV Launched
      It’s impressive that the introductory starting price point of approximately 8 lakhs is going to attract many. As someone who prioritises cost-effectiveness, has a preference for electric cars, and doesn’t require a large vehicle, the Comet from MG could be a choice.
      MG Comet has the potential to change the way we view cars in India, emphasising practicality, affordability, and convenience of a smart and small electric car for city driving. As someone who priorities efficiency, and cost-effectiveness, I think the Comet is an excellent choice for anyone who shares these values. More

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      2024 Skoda Electric Small Car (XUV400 Rival), Compact EV SUV Teased

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      Skoda Electric Car Launch PlansSkoda has revealed details about their upcoming electric cars and SUVs – These includes a small electric car of 4.1m length and compact electric SUV of 4.5m length
      Skoda has extensive plans to expand its electric vehicle range in the coming 5-7 years. The new electric line-up will include three new SUVs, an estate car and two new Enyaq models. This complete range of electric vehicles will cover Small, Compact, Combi, and Space styles along with facelifted versions of the Enyaq, Enyaq Coupe and the Elroq Crossover.
      Apart from the new lineup of electric vehicles, late last year, Skoda had also announced a new brand identity. It includes a new logo and brand identity which is part of the automaker’s Strategy 2030. The new logo is two dimensional as against the older three dimensional design, thus making it easier to recognize and print. The new logo will be seen on the front and rear of all cars and will start appearing on all new Skoda models from 2024.
      New Compact Electric SUV and Small Electric Car
      Of the 6 new electric cars that have been announced, the two that have the highest probability of making it to India are the Compact Electric SUV called Elroq and yet to be named small electric car. New Skoda Elroq EV will be 4.5m in length while the small electric car will be 4.1m in length.
      Based on the company’s Modern Solid design theme, the Elroq will get a tough front end named Tech Deck, squared off wheel arches and large skid plates at the front and rear. It is expected to receive a 77kWh battery pack offering a range of around 480 kms.
      Skoda Compact Electric SUV – 4.5m length
      Next in line is the ‘Small’ SUV from Skoda set for launch in 2025. Coming in a sub-compact SUV stance, the model will measure 4.1 meters in length and will be priced around €25,000 / US$ 27,432 / INR 22,48,900. It will take on the likes of Nexon EV and XUV400, if launched in India.
      Skoda Small Electric Car – 4.1m length
      Skoda Combi and Space SUV by 2026
      The Skoda Combi concept will replace the Octavia which is one of the company’s best-selling wagons in Europe. The Combi electric will measure 4700mm in length. The Space SUV is also expected to make its debut in 2026 as the company’s flagship model. It will measure 4900mm in length thus making it around 200mm longer than the Kodiaq SUV. The Skoda Space was previewed as the Vision 7S electric SUV and is directed towards buyers with larger families. It is claimed to draw power via an 89 kWh battery pack with a claimed driving range of 600kms.
      Skoda Enyaq and Enyaq Coupe is also a part of the company’s set of electric vehicles planned for launch. These two models were launched in 2020 and 2022 respectively but are due for a mid-life facelift in 2025, sporting the brand’s new design language. Both these models will continue to be produced at the Skoda plant in Mladá Boleslav in Czechia.
      Skoda Electric Car Launch Plans
      Along with these electric vehicles, Skoda has also announced that the Octavia, Kamiq and Scala will be updated with new designs. The Kamiq and Scala are set for launch later this year, while the updated Octavia will arrive in 2024. More