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    Volkswagen Entry-Level EV Teased – India Launch Likely?

    Volkswagen Entry-Level EV TeasedUnderpinned by the MEB platform, Volkswagen’s affordable electric car is expected to go on sale as ID.1 or ID.One
    As part of its renewed growth strategy, Volkswagen is working on multiple new products for global markets. A total of nine new models are planned for launch by 2027. One of these is an entry-level EV, which will work as an electric replacement for the discontinued VW Up hatchback. Let’s take a look at the details revealed in the first teaser.
    Volkswagen Entry-Level EV Teased
    As seen in the teaser, an elegant design with distinctive lighting elements appears to be the primary highlight of the front fascia. The headlamp setup features a unique rectangular lighting signature, framed by bracket-shaped LED elements on either side. Overall look and feel is further enhanced with vertically stacked LED DRLs on the bumpers.
    Another attraction is the illuminated Volkswagen logo. The EV has curvy body panelling and flowing lines. These are visually appealing and also designed to improve aerodynamics. The fenders appear muscular and well-defined, adding a dash of ruggedness to the EV. The bonnet is flat, ensuring a clean, uncluttered look while enhancing airflow.
    Also visible are compact rear-view mirrors, likely featuring integrated turn signals. Not much is revealed beyond that point in the teaser. Side profile could get features such as body-coloured door handles, door side moulding and sporty alloy wheels. At the rear, the lighting signature will be similar to the front.
    Volkswagen Small Electric Car – ID. 2all Concept – For Reference
    Based on MEB platform
    Volkswagen’s new entry-level EV will be part of the fully electric ID product family. This range has been a major success, with over 1.35 million ID cars sold globally since 2019. The new entry-level EV will be based on the MEB platform. It is a shortened version of the one used with the ID.2all hatchback.
    With affordability in mind, the new EV is expected to get a compact battery pack and a single motor setup. To achieve economies of scale, the platform and powertrain are likely to be shared with similar products from sister brands such as Skoda and SEAT. For its entry-level EV, Volkswagen is thinking about a starting price of around €20,000 (approx. Rs 18 lakh).
    At this price point, the new EV can target a wide segment of user groups in Europe. Talking about production, Volkswagen is yet to finalize the plant where the new entry-level EV will be manufactured. However, the company has mentioned that its Wolfsburg plant will be one of the hubs for its new electric cars. New-gen electric Golf and the high-volume electric T-Roc will be manufactured at the Wolfsburg plant.
    New Volkswagen Small Electric Car – ID. 2all Concept
    Volkswagen entry-level EV – India launch prospects
    It is not certain when Volkswagen will introduce its new entry-level EV in India. As per current plans, Volkswagen is working on other EVs for the Indian market. These will be based on a localized version of the CMP architecture. Volkswagen has started work on the India Main Platform or IMP, which is for EVs. It is a derivative of the China Main Platform (CMP). Upcoming EV launches from Volkswagen for India include a compact and a midsize electric SUV. More

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    BYD Sealion 6 Plug-In Hybrid Spied In India – 18.3 kWh Battery, 970 Km Range

    BYD Sealion 6 Plug-In Hybrid SpiedAt the Auto Expo 2025, BYD showcased their Sealion 6 alongside Sealion 7, which is slated to launch in India and bookings have commenced. However, Sealion 6 is spied testing on public roads in India without any camouflage. Is this an indication of a potential launch? Will this be the first PHEV to launch in India in the premium mainstream segment? Let’s take a look.
    BYD Sealion 6 Plug-In Hybrid
    Sparking launch speculations, we can see the BYD Sealion 6 PHEV being tested on Indian roads. This particular variant spied testing in India is a Plug-In Hybrid variant as suggested by the badge on tailgate that reads DM-i AWD. Where DM-i is BYD’s proprietary Plug-In Hybrid technology that reads Dual Mode Intelligence.
    BYD Sealion 6 Plug-In Hybrid Spied
    AWD also means this is the top-spec Premium variant. The powertrain is the main highlight of this vehicle and is the most interesting too. It is a Plug-In Hybrid powertrain that combines an 18.3 kWh battery pack and an IC engine. Total system output 320 bhp of peak power and 550 Nm of peak torque.
    BYD’s Blade battery with a capacity of 18.3 kWh delivers 92 km of range on a single charge in Pure EV mode. Combined with a 60L fuel tank, BYD is promising around 1,000 km of total range. BYD is promising a combined fuel efficiency figure of 1.4L/100 km, which turns out to be 71.42 km/l mileage (fuel efficiency).
    BYD Sealion 6 Plug-In Hybrid Spied
    With AWD capability, BYD Sealion 6 Plug-In Hybrid can accelerate from 0 to 100 km/h in 5.9 seconds. The Hybrid powertrain with 1.5L Xiaoyun can run on pure electric to 81 km, till the battery reaches 25% SOC. Post which, it switches to IC engine. Thus combining both efficiency and performance.
    BYD Sealion 6 PHEV
    Will it launch in India?
    Where design is concerned, BYD Sealion 6 looks like a smaller and less sharper version of BYD Sealion 7, which is slated to launch in India soon. It follows the design language of other BYD SUVs in the Ocean lineup. Overall, Sealion 6 looks quite handsome, premium and sophisticated SUV that could make an impact in Indian market.
    BYD Sealion 6 PHEV
    We say this because Indian market has never seen the launch of a proper Hybrid vehicle in mainstream and premium mainstream segments. You must be wondering about the vehicles advertised as Hybrid. They are self-charging Hybrid vehicles with a tiny battery without any meaningful pure electric range. It is the Plug-in Hybrid vehicles that offer the best of both ICE and EV powertrains.
    BYD Sealion 6 PHEV
    On the inside, we get a familiar-looking cabin that borrows elements from other BYD vehicles, which is not a bad thing at all. The 15.6-inch rotatable touchscreen infotainment screen, 3-spoke steering wheel, 12.3-inch digital driver’s screen, ambient lighting, premium audio from Infinity, digital key, heated and ventilated front seats, dual wireless chargers, panoramic sunroof, ADAS and 360-degree cameras are some of the notable elements.
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    Mahindra Announces Prices and Delivery Details of All Variants – BE 6, XEV 9e

    Mahindra BE 6 and XEV 9eBookings Open for XEV 9e & BE 6 from February 14 – Deliveries to Begin in Phases Starting Mid-March 2025
    Mahindra is set to open bookings for its highly anticipated Electric Origin SUVs – XEV 9e and BE 6 – across all nine variants on February 14, 2025, at 9 AM. The move follows an overwhelming response from customers seeking multiple price options for these cutting-edge EVs.
    Starting February 6, 2025, at 10 AM, customers can express their model and variant preference via the official Mahindra Electric SUV website (mahindraelectricsuv.com), allowing them to streamline their booking process ahead of time.
    Pricing and Delivery
    To efficiently manage demand, Mahindra has structured a phased production ramp-up, ensuring timely deliveries. The BE 6 starts at Rs 18.90 lakh for the base Pack One variant with a 59 kWh battery, while the XEV 9e starts at Rs 21.90 lakh for the same pack. For those opting for the Pack One variant with a larger 79 kWh battery, the BE 6 is priced at Rs 20.50 lakh, while this option is not available for the XEV 9e. Deliveries of Pack 1 variants will start in Aug 2025.
    Pack Two variant with a 59 kWh battery is priced at Rs 21.90 lakh for the BE 6 and Rs 24.90 lakh for the XEV 9e, with deliveries set to begin in July 2025. This variant is only offered with 59 kWh battery pack, and does not get the larger 79 kWh battery pack.
    Pack Three Select is the one with 59 kWh battery pack. BE 6 is priced at Rs 24.50 lakh while the XEV 9e is priced at Rs 27.90 lakh. Delivery of Pack Three Select variants will start June 2025. Top of the line variants, which are under the Pack Three and get only 79 kWh option, BE 6 is priced at Rs 26.90 lakh, while the XEV 9e costs Rs 30.50 lakh, with deliveries beginning in mid-March 2025.
    Charging & Pricing Details
    – The ex-showroom price does not include charger and installation costs. Buyers can opt for:– 7.2 kW charger at an additional Rs 50,000– 11.2 kW charger at an additional Rs 75,000– Institutional orders (two or more vehicles) come with an optional charger.– Final pricing at the time of delivery will be applicable to all variants.
    Mahindra’s Electric Origin SUVs are positioned as premium, future-ready EVs with world-class technology and performance. With structured bookings and phased deliveries, Mahindra aims to cater to growing demand while ensuring a seamless customer experience. More

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    MG M9 Luxury Electric MPV Spied Testing In India Ahead Of Launch

    MG M9 Luxury Electric MPVAt the Auto Expo 2025, JSW MG Motor India showcased a multitude of vehicles. Among them was the MG M9 luxury electric MPV, which will launch in India sometime in 2025. Ahead of launch, MG M9 is spied testing in India without any camouflage. The recent spy shots capture show the vehicle’s exteriors. Let’s take a look.
    MG M9 Luxury Electric MPV
    Measuring 5,270 mm in length, 2,000 mm in width, 1,840 mm in height and packing a ginormous 3,200 mm long wheelbase, MG M9 looks majestic. This particular test mule was spied in what looks like an underground parking lot of some sort. When trundling on the road, MG M9 will surely exert a lot of road presence.
    MG M9 Luxury Electric MPV
    The one spied in these recent spy shots, show a White shade, complemented by a Black roof for a dual-tone floating roof effect. There are many chrome bits on this vehicle too, radiating luxury and understated sophistication. In these spy shots, MG M9 can be seen charging with the port present on rear left quarter panel.
    Slim LED DRLs on top and vertically arranged LED headlights along with a lower air dam form the fascia. Wheels are of aerodynamic design and look rather nice. Rear area is dominated by expansive yet sleek LED tail light signatures. The rear doors are of sliding type, similar to what we see in Kia Carnival.
    MG M9 Luxury Electric MPV
    Luxurious Interiors
    On the inside, we can see premium interiors with a luxurious feel. There is a 2-spoke steering wheel in front of a fully digital instrument cluster with multiple readouts. There is a larger free-standing infotainment screen with a climate control panel below it. A sophisticated centre console with storage cubbies look premium too.
    The main highlight of this vehicle is 2nd row seats and this is an area where MG M9 luxury electric MPV is expected to deliver big. The rear individual captain chairs offer acres of space and even has calves support allowing the occupants to properly stretch out. Dual panoramic sunroof, massaging seats, ventilated seats, 3-zone climate control, ambient lighting, premium audio system, 360-degree camera and Level-2 ADAS are some of the notable features.
    MG M9 Dashboard
    Powering the MG M9, is a 90 kWh battery pack that promises around 430 km of range from a single charge. There is a single electric motor pumping out 244 bhp of peak power and 350 Nm of peak torque. The battery supports 125 kW DC fast charging allowing a 30%-80% top-up in just 30 minutes. It will launch via MG Select dealerships after Cyberster.

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    Maruti Suzuki eVitara Final Production-Spec Version Spied Ahead Of Launch

    Maruti Suzuki eVitara Final Production-Spec VersionWhile Maruti Suzuki has taken the veil off eVitara on the stage at Auto Expo 2025, the test mules still don camouflage, trying to hide their identity. The launch is likely to be soon and eVitara seems to have entered final test phases. Let’s take a look at these new spy shots and everything they can show us.
    Maruti Suzuki eVitara Final Production-Spec
    Recent test mules spied by automotive enthusiast Anurag Kumar at NH 48 near Gurgaon, Delhi NCR, show a test mule fully draped with camouflage. Even though the launch is nearing, the amount of camouflage has not been reduced accordingly. Like every other eVitara test mule, this unit also dons temporary red registration plates.
    Maruti Suzuki eVitara Front
    Where design is concerned, Maruti Suzuki eVitara looks somewhat like an oversized S-Presso. At around 4.3m in length, this design looks proportionate and quite handsome. There are NEXTre 3-point Matrix LED DRLs, LED projector headlights, a polyhedral muscular stance and 18-inch aero wheels.
    Speaking of wheels, Maruti Suzuki might be offering the same basic wheel for both eVitara and Toyota Urban Cruiser EV, but with uniquely styled aerodynamic covers to achieve design distinction. This is a smart implementation and this particular test mules doesn’t have any aero wheel covers which will be attached in final production model.
    Maruti Suzuki eVitara Rear
    Specs & Features
    Rear door handles are on C Pillars and rear gets NEXTre triple-point LED tail lights that are not connected. The 2,700mm wheelbase is notable and carves out a lot of space on the inside. Speaking of inside, Maruti Suzuki eVitara gets a Twin Deck floating centre console, large infotainment screen and instrument screen, ambient lighting and ventilated seats.
    Other notable features include 10-way adjustable driver’s seat, sliding and reclining rear bench seat for a flexible boot space, 40:20:40 split seat design, a large panoramic glass roof that doesn’t open, a new 2-spoke steering wheel, Level-2 ADAS with many autonomous features, advanced telematics suite and many more.
    Maruti Suzuki eVitara Side
    Powering the eVitara, we have two battery options – 49 kWh and 61 kWh. The latter can be had with a dual motor layout for AWD capabilities that boast a total system output of 181 bhp of peak power and 300 Nm of peak torque. The larger battery option promises a range of 500 km on a single charge. More

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    Hyundai Creta Electric Makes Range Anxiety A Thing of the Past – Over 10k Charging Points Across India

    Hyundai Creta ElectricWith a range of 473 km and access to over 10,000 EV charging points, Hyundai Creta Electric provides users complete freedom to explore their world
    For anyone planning to buy an EV, one of the important factors to consider is the range and charging options. Hyundai has ensured that Creta Electric works as an effective pill to eliminate range anxiety. Let us see the details about the battery, range and charging options to understand how Creta Electric addresses real-world driving needs and makes EV ownership more convenient.
    Creta Electric battery, range, charging time
    Two battery pack options are there with Creta Electric – a 42 kWh and a long-range 51.4 kWh unit. The 42-kWh battery pack is available with Executive, Smart, Smart (O) and Premium variants. The long-range battery pack is available with Smart (O) LR and Excellence LR variants. With the 42-kWh battery pack, range is 390 km (as per MIDC Part 1 + Part 2 Cycle). The larger battery pack offers a range of 473 km. Both packs are liquid cooled lithium-ion units, ensuring optimal performance and safety.
    Real-world range of Creta Electric can easily touch 400+ km. This is good enough for a full week of commuting and even for inter-city journeys. With significant improvements in charging infrastructure, users can also travel long distances across the country with their Creta Electric.
    11kW Home Smart Charger
    Charging time is a key concern for EV buyers, and Hyundai has addressed it with an efficient solution. Creta Electric comes with an 11 kW home charger, which is much better than what competition is offering currently. The 11 kW home charger allows Creta EV to charge from 10% to 100% in around 4 hours, while the larger battery pack takes 4.5 hours.
    For even faster charging, a 50 kW DC fast charger can be used, reducing charging time significantly. With this, both battery packs can go from 10% to 80% in just 58 minutes, ensuring minimal downtime and maximum convenience.
    Easily locate charging stations with myHyundai app
    Along with adequate range and fast charging, Hyundai has also ensured that Creta Electric users can easily find charging stations. This can be done with the myHyundai app that has more than 10,000 EV charging points mapped in its database. The app shows the nearest charging stations and slots that may be available for charging. Being able to easily locate a charging station significantly enhances the overall experience across both urban areas and highways.
    Seamless In-car payments
    Hyundai has also simplified the payment process at charging stations with its pioneering In-Car Payment system. As of now, around 1,500 charging stations support Hyundai’s In-Car Payment system. At any of these charging stations, the payment prompt is displayed on the infotainment screen. Users can then pay comfortably using the Hyundai Pay Wallet. Creta Electric’s In-Car Payment system ensures a seamless experience and eliminates hassles associated with using external payment methods.
    When it comes to addressing range anxiety, the Hyundai Creta Electric appears to be a step ahead of the competition. Hyundai has also focused on ensuring that the overall refuelling experience is better than what would expect from an ICE car. Overall, Creta Electric has prioritized convenience and efficiency, ensuring a hassle-free experience for users. More

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    Tata Harrier EV Mid Variant Spied Ahead Of Launch – New Wheel Design

    Tata Harrier EV Mid Variant SpiedTesting for Tata Harrier EV has commenced a long time ago and we should see it launch soon enough. However, the new set of spy shots shows Harrier EV in camouflage ahead of launch. Interestingly, this test mule is donning a new design for alloy wheels that is slightly different than the one showed on stage. Let’s take a closer look.
    Tata Harrier EV
    We have seen the new Tata Harrier EV at Auto Expo 2025 in all its glory. This new flagship electric vehicle from Tata is poised to revolutionise Indian EV market and rival Mahindra XEV 9e. Launch is likely to happen soon and it is expected to follow Tata’s aggressive pricing strategies and undercutting competition.
    Tata Harrier EV Mid Variant Spied
    This test mule was spied in Okhla Industrial Estate in Delhi NCR and it is wrapped in camouflage. It has a closed-off grill at the front, confirming that is, in fact, Harrier EV and not Harrier Petrol, which is also in testing phase (1.5L GDi). Interestingly, this test mule looks like a mid-level variant of some sort.
    We say this because it dons a wheel design that is different from the top-spec trim showed at Auto Expo 2025. On closer inspection, this wheel design looks similar to the one offered with Adventure Plus trim of Harrier ICE, but finished in a monotone Black shade on this test mule. This particular wheel on Harrier ICE is 18-inches and wrapped with 235-section tyre.
    Tata Harrier EV Mid Variant Spied
    Top-spec trim will come with 19-inchers and probably 245-section tyres. These spy shots show a glimpse of the interior that reveals the same steering wheel as Harrier ICE along with the same 12.3-inch free-standing infotainment screen with wireless Android Auto and Apple CarPlay, dual-zone climate control and more.
    What to expect?
    At the grand stage of Auto Expo 2025, Tata Motors unveiled a production version of Harrier EV, which marked a significant shift in company’s strategies. For the first time post BS6 emission norms implementation in 2020, a Tata Motors car is getting power sent to rear wheels. That too, in a much more sophisticated way.
    Tata Harrier EV Mid Variant Interior
    There is a paradigm shift in performance too as Harrier EV packs two electric motors for blistering acceleration. Total system power is not revealed, but total system torque is 500 Nm. The suspension is massively overhauled as Harrier EV packs front and rear independent suspension as well.
    Tata Harrier EV Mid Variant
    Apart from the performance, Harrier EV is promised to bring significantly more features. On the stage, Tata Motors demonstrated self-park feature, similar to what we saw and experienced in BE 6 and XEV 9e. So, the excitement quotient around Harrier EV is immensely high and it is expected to set a new benchmark in technology and performance.
    Tata Harrier EV Mid Variant More

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    Mainstream Electric SUVs Range Compared (ARAI) – Creta, Curvv, BE 6, XEV 9e, eVitara

    Mainstream Electric SUVs Range Compared – Mahindra BE 6Competition is intensifying in the compact and midsize electric SUV segment, as evident with several new products introduced in recent months. From the consumer’s perspective, one of the important factors in the decision-making process is the range of an EV. To help make informed decisions, here’s a comparison of the ARAI-certified range offered by mass-market electric C and D Segment SUVs.
    Mahindra BE 6 tops the list; XEV 9e second
    For anyone looking for maximum range, Mahindra BE 6 is likely to be the top choice. BE 6 is available with two battery pack options – 59 kWh and 79 kWh. Range is 556 km and 682 km, respectively. Mahindra XEV 9e has the same battery pack options. However, since the XEV 9e is larger and heavier, it has a slightly lower range.
    Mahindra XEV 9e Reach Showrooms
    While BE 6 is 4,371 mm long, XEV 9e measures 4,789 mm in length. Among mass-market electric SUVs, XEV 9e comes second when assessed exclusively as per range. It can run 542 km with the smaller battery pack and 656 km with the 79-kWh unit. Offering best-in-segment range, BE 6 and XEV 9e seem most appropriate for inter-city journeys and long-distance trips.
    While charging infrastructure has improved significantly, it is still better to have fewer refuelling stops. However, prices of BE 6 and XEV 9e are on the higher side, especially for top variants. Mahindra BE 6 is available in the price range of Rs 18.90 lakh to Rs 26.90 lakh. XEV 9e is priced in the range of Rs 21.90 lakh to Rs 30.90 lakh.
    Tata Curvv EV
    The 500+ km club
    Ignoring other variables, a range of 500+ km would seem desirable for most EV buyers. In that case, the options available are BYD Atto 3 and Tata Curvv EV. Atto 3 is available with battery pack options of 49.9 kWh and 60.5 kWh. Range is 468 km and 521 km, respectively.
    However, BYD Atto 3 is the costliest among all SUVs listed here. That’s because it is imported into India as CKD, which means additional taxation. BYD Atto 3 is available in the price range of Rs 24.99 lakh to Rs 33.99 lakh. Tata Curvv EV is available with battery pack options of 45 kWh and 55 kWh. Range is 430 km and 502 km, respectively. Curvv EV is relatively affordable, starting at Rs 17.49 lakh.
    Maruti Suzuki eVitara India Debut
    The top variant is priced at Rs 21.99 lakh. Maruti eVitara also promises a range of 500 km, but it is yet to be certified by ARAI. However, it is unlikely that there will be any major difference between the claimed range and ARAI certified range of eVitara. Maruti eVitara has battery pack options of 49 kWh and 61 kWh.
    450 – 500 km range electric SUVs
    While MG Motor will be bringing multiple new EVs to India, the current options include the MG ZS EV. It is derived from the ICE platform used for MG Astor. MG ZS EV is available with a 50.3 kWh battery pack. It has a range of 461 km. While the base variant costs Rs 19.98 lakh, the top variant is available at Rs 24.23 lakh.
    Hyundai Creta Electric
    Next is Hyundai Creta Electric, available with battery pack options of 42 kWh and 51.4 kWh. Range is 390 km and 473 km, respectively. While Creta Electric may not have the highest range in this list, it is one of the most practical and reliable options among mass-market electric SUVs. Creta Electric is competitively priced in the range of Rs 17.99 lakh to Rs 23.50 lakh. More