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      Toyota Innova Hycross Electric Version Reportedly In The Works

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      After electrification of Crysta, it is the turn of electric Innova Hycross prototype and it looks sharp in a renderToyota Innova HyCross Electric – RenderInnova Hycross is the one vehicle that is constantly generating a lot of interest among car buyers in India. It made its debut just a few days ago, with an official launch scheduled for next month. New Innova HyCross ditches diesel for clean burning petrol and strong hybrid powertrain options.Toyota reckons that hybrids are better bets than going full electric. That said, the company has full electric vehicles in its lineup under BZ series. Toyota had showcased an electric Innova Crysta prototype that was later spotted testing on public roads. There is a high possibility that Toyota is testing the feasibility of electrifying vehicles with ladder-frame chassis.Toyota Innova Hycross Electric PrototypeNew reports suggest that Toyota is looking into electrifying Innova Hycross. This info was revealed in one of the threads in a forum by Muhammad Joned. But there is a catch. This is likely to be only offered to fleet owners. Unlike Innova Crysta, Innova Hycross is based on a modern monocoque chassis that has a front wheel drive architecture. The former came with a ladder-frame chassis and had rear wheel drive architecture. This was revered as a robust vehicle and came with a diesel engine which was much sought-after.Hycross is almost opposite to Crysta in terms of its construction. The thread on this forum reveals that, apart from the Innova Crysta electric prototype that was showcased at Indonesia International Motor Show in Jakarta, there are two more such prototypes in Indonesia and two more in Thailand.Toyota Innova Crysta Electric Concept PrototypeAmong the ones in Indonesia, one is at TAM (Toyota Astra Motors), Jakarta, and the other is brought around for exhibitions and shows. The ones in Thailand are at the regional R&D base of Asia Pacific via Toyota Daihatsu Engineering Manufacturing. One was dismantled for Hycross (Zenix) as the plan was to make an electric version of Hycross (Zenix).The report further states that this prototype being built, is not aimed at private buyers. Instead, it is aimed at government and private fleet operators. Along with that, GSO and companies that want to go green, are intended customers. One such company is said to be a mining firm that has safety risks from using ICE cars.Innova Hycross Electric  – RenderDamanik’s Studio has created a tasty render of the upcoming prototype of Innova Hycross. It inculcates design philosophies that Toyota used while creating Innova Crysta electric prototype. Electric Innova Hycross prototype gets a new front fascia with a closed-off grille. Toyota logo gets a blue surround and there are blue colour splashes in the side profile.It is not yet officially revealed whether Toyota is making an electric prototype based on Innova Hycross. Even if there is one, there is no news as to when it will be showcased and where. One can expect it to have a battery big enough to cover 300 km of real-world use on a single charge.Render, Source More

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      Mercedes GLB, Electric EQB SUV Launch Price Rs 63.8 L, Rs 74.5 L

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      Launched alongside Mercedes-Benz GLB, EQB electric SUV is priced at Rs. 74.5 lakh (ex-sh) and carves its own niche of a 7-seater electric luxury SUVMercedes-Benz GLB And EQB LaunchedWhen it comes to luxury cars in India, there is no beating the three-pointed star. Even with high-seller like the E-Class in its arsenal, Mercedes-Benz India reported a slight decline in Q3 2022. Still, it outsells all rivals to remain the No 1 luxury car brand in India.Mercedes-Benz continues to expand its Indian portfolio with the launch of the much-awaited GLB three-row SUV and its electric sibling, EQB. Introductory pricing for GLB 200 is INR 63.8 Lakhs, GLB 220d is INR 66.8 Lakhs, GLB 220d 4MATIC is INR 69.8 Lakhs and EQB 300 4MATIC is INR 74.5 Lakhs (all prices are ex-showroom).Mercedes-Benz GLB and EQBAfter Mercedes-Benz EQC and EQS, EQB is the third all-electric vehicle launched this year. This way, Mercedes-Benz displays its commitment to an eco-friendly future. The company claims that GLB’s striking design, flexible seating positions, legroom, and load compartment make it a highly practical urban SUV for daily usage.Launching the SUV siblings, Martin Schwenk, Managing Director & CEO, Mercedes-Benz India, said, “We are excited to wrap up 2022 with the key introduction of two versatile 7-seater SUVs the GLB & EQB. Both these SUVs are highly versatile, spacious and ideal for large nuclear families requiring extra space and a pair of seats, for the pre-teens or even pets.GLB SpecsHe said, “They can seat up to 7 passengers and offer a choice of space configurations while also being able to navigate rough terrain effortlessly. For the first time, we are offering three powertrains, a petrol, diesel, and an electric for our customers.The launch of the EQB is also a significant step towards our vision of transitioning to a climate-neutral fleet gradually, with four luxury EVs in Mercedes-Benz India portfolio. We have also introduced attractive ownership propositions like industry best warranties on both the SUVs for an enhanced customer experience.”Specs & FeaturesWith GLB and EQB 7 seater SUVs, Mercedes-Benz is targeting large nuclear families wanting more space for their active lifestyle and dynamic requirements. Mercedes-Benz GLB offers a 40:20:40 split and folding second-row seat, and a lot of knee room for 2nd-row passengers. Both GLB and EQB bear similar designs as global models. Three powertrain options are available for GLB: Petrol 4×2, Diesel 4×2 and Diesel 4×4.EQB SpecsThe EQB 300 4MATIC is fitted with a 66.5 kWh battery. It has two motors with a combined power output of 168 kW and torque of 390 Nm and the 4Matic AWD system is standard. EQB can be charged with a maximum power of up to 100 kW with DC charging. With that, the charging time is 32 minutes for 10-80% charge.On the inside, Mercedes-Benz boasts high-resolution screens and graphics, a customizabledisplay, learning-capable software, and Voice Control with natural language recognition. Active park assist is offered as well. Starting from Rs. 63.8 lakh (ex-sh), GLB competes with Land Rover Discovery Sport, Jeep Grand Cherokee and the likes, while EQB seems to be a lone ranger as there are no 7-seater electric SUVs in India at that price. More

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      Tata Tigor Electric Charging Via Diesel Generator – Owner Shares Details

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      Tata Tigor EV comes with a 26 kWh battery pack that promises a range of 315 km from a single chargeTata Tigor Electric Charging Via Diesel GeneratorIt is a known fact by now that Tata Motors is the reigning champ in 4W EVs with more than 80% of total market share. Creating a base for Tata Motors for EV future are Nexon EV range, Tigor EV and upcoming Tiago EV. There have been early adopters for EV tech. That said, the number of these early adopters is very meek compared to ICE cars.There are multiple factors contributing to this delay in EV transition. Primary of which is a need for robust charging infrastructure. There are charging stations springing up in metropolitan and major cities. Tigor EV recently extended Tigor EV’s range to 315 km from a single charge from its 26 kWh battery. What if that is not enough? What if you need something to charge your EV on the go? Sinto Antony demonstrates a way from Kerala. Let’s take a look.Tata Tigor EV ChargedThis method is not a foolproof solution for charging an EV. Rather, this is a way that you can charge your EV in emergencies. Something that prevents you from being stranded in the middle of nowhere. There are RSA (roadside assistance) plans in place that should cover instances like these. However, they come with time penalties.In his video, Sinto used a diesel generator to charge his Tigor EV. This is not a new concept. There are series-hybrid powertrains that use a dedicated petrol engine to charge the batteries. Some examples of series hybrids are Cadillac ELR, Fisker Karma BMW i3 and more.[embedded content][embedded content]Speaking of the BMW i3, it didn’t have a conventional car engine. Instead, it came with a small range extender engine to extend the car’s range in case of emergencies. This is in line with what Sinto Antony did with his Tigor EV. He used a diesel generator to top up his car battery on a trip that included inclines.There are things to consider when going this route. Firstly, grounding or earthing needs to be properly established. For this Sinto used a metal rod and fixed it to the ground. After a secure connection is established, Tigor EV charger is connected to a 3-pin plug on the diesel generator. The charging process went on smoothly and didn’t trigger any warnings on the car’s OBD.Charging ProcessEven though it is convenient, it is not very fast. Sinto initiated the process when Tigor EV’s SOC (state of charge) was at 26%. After an hour of charging, Sinto only managed to get an increment of 10% taking SOC to 36%. Owner mentions that it is a convenient flexibility to have in case of emergencies, despite being slow.Diesel generators like this are available in India widely. These might come in handy during unplanned and long tours. When not in use, generators like this will eat into the car’s boot space. Now that EVs are gaining steam, should manufacturers consider integrating a small ICE engine as a range extender? Heck, yeah! More

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      Toyota Innova Electric Spied On Public Road For First Time

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      Innova Crysta electric concept prototype resembles its ICE-powered sibling with a closed-off grille at the front and blue accentsToyota Innova Crysta Electric Concept PrototypeWe have seen Toyota going full regalia with hybrid tech. Innova Hycross was recently launched in Indonesia as Innova Kejing Zenix. In India, it might bear the name Innova Crysta Hycross. That said, Toyota is also investing sizeable chunks of its R&D budget in pure EVs and PHEVs as well.Earlier this year, Toyota showcased an all-electric Innova concept prototype at Indonesia International Motor Show (IIMS) in Jakarta. It managed to grab a lot of eyeballs across the world, especially in South Asian markets and India where Innova is popular.Innova Crysta Electric SpiedInnova Crysta Electric concept prototype is a good example of Toyota electrifying its existing ICE vehicles along the way. Recently, this prototype is spotted undergoing testing on roads. Is Toyota considering utilising the older platform to make pure EVs? It is a stretch. But there is a good possibility of that happening. Let’s take a look.This is an interesting development because Anton Jimmi Suwandy, marketing director, Toyota Astra Motor, Indonesia, revealed that “Kijang Innova Electric will not go on sale and has been built as a concept for the purpose of engineering development only. Suwandy further added that the Innova EV concept is being used for research and development of future EVs that are being readied for the region”.Innova Crysta ElectricHenry Tanoto, Vice President Director at Toyota Astra Motor Indonesia, also confirmed that the Innova EV concept is ‘merely a study’. The concept is said to have raised the popularity of EVs in the community. Outgoing Innova Crysta is underpinned by IMV2 ladder-on-frame architecture which is designed to accommodate petrol and diesel powertrains.Incorporating battery packs and motors in this platform is a major packaging challenge. Thanks to old-school construction that restricts space for batteries. Toyota might be investing in electrification of its current ladder-frame old-school vehicles like MPVs, SUVs and pickup trucks and more. There are segments like pickup trucks where robustness of ladder-frame chassis and electrification are equally important.What To Expect?If everything that Toyota is testing with the Innova Crysta electric concept prototype checks out, we can witness electrification or even hybridisation of workhorses like SUVs and pickup trucks from the Japanese giant in the future. In North American markets, GM, Ford and even Rivian are offering electric vehicles that are based on ladder-frame chassis.Innova Crysta ElectricEven though Innova Crysta electric concept prototype is spotted testing on road, Toyota is not likely to launch an electric version of its MPV. Innova Hycross is already out of the bag and features a modern monocoque chassis with an FWD layout and a hybrid powertrain as an option.Source More

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      Hyundai Ioniq 5 Electric India Bookings Open 20th Dec 2022

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      Upon launch, Hyundai Ioniq 5 is expected to be priced between Rs 40-50 lakh (ex-showroom)2022 Hyundai IONIQ5 In IndiaHyundai took its next big step in electric mobility when it officially unveiled the Ioniq 5 earlier in February last year. The mid-size electric crossover has been rumoured to land on Indian shores sooner or later but the Korean auto giant hadn’t released an official statement regarding this until now.The company has now stated through a press release that Ioniq 5 will be hitting showrooms across our country in the coming month. Official bookings will open from 20th Dec 2022. This will be the second fully electric offering by Hyundai in India after Kona Electric. The Korean brand has further stated that it will expand its EV lineup in India to six models by 2028.Hyundai Ioniq 5 Launch In IndiaAlthough an exact launch date for Hyundai Ioniq 5 hasn’t been revealed by the carmaker yet, it is most likely to planned for launch at Auto Expo 2023 in January next year. The electric crossover is also the recipient of the World Car of the Year 2022.Ioniq 5 will be available in the Indian market as a CKD product and will be assembled at the company’s facility near Chennai in Tamil Nadu. Production of the upcoming electric crossover is expected to commence in the coming weeks. It is based on the Hyundai Group’s Skateboard Electric-Global Modular Platform (E-GMP) that also underpins the Kia EV6.Hyundai Ioniq 5 20 Inch AlloysHyundai says the E-GMP architecture has been developed on four key pillars- Modularity, Reliability, Usability, and Performance. Speaking of its design, Ioniq 5 flaunts a futuristic design with a contrasting blend of retro-inspired styling which derives most of its elements from the Hyundai 45 concept including its overall silhouette and angular creases running across its profile.Some notable exterior highlights include pixelated U-shaped dual LED headlights and taillights, unique daytime running lights and a clamshell bonnet which is a first for Hyundai. It rides on aero-optimised 20-inch alloy wheels that are in line with the Parametric Pixel design theme.Powertrain SpecsInternationally, Ioniq 5 is available in two variants with different battery specs. One uses a 58 kWh battery and sends power to the rear wheels while the other variant uses a 72.6 kWh battery and sends power to all four wheels thanks to a dual-motor setup. The single-motor variant is expected to be offered to Indian consumers initially while the AWD variant is expected to launch subsequently.[embedded content][embedded content]The lower-spec battery when paired to a single electric motor returns a peak output of 167 bhp while it can clock a 0-100 kmph sprint in 8.5 seconds. On the other hand, the 72.6 kWh battery pack sends power to both axles and returns a combined output of 302 bhp and 605 Nm of peak torque. This variant of the electric SUV accelerates 0-100 kmph in just 5.2 seconds and can clock a top speed of 185 kmph.Management SpeakMr. Unsoo Kim, MD & CEO, Hyundai Motor India Ltd., said, “IONIQ is a brand that we have developed specifically for dedicated BEV models. It has been designed for those customers who want to be in charge of a brighter and more sustainable tomorrow. Hyundai IONIQ 5 has been developed on the dedicated E-GMP platform and perfectly reflects our Global Vision of ‘Progress for Humanity’, epitomizing our pursuit of quality time, as we aspire to make every moment of our customer rewarding and worthwhile. This new BEV SUV combines elements of nature and Hyundai’s ingenuity to harness the true potential of humanity, thereby offering a product that will revolutionize the future course of sustainable smart mobility. With Hyundai IONIQ 5, we are taking customer experiences beyond simple transportation, customers can now experience a new realm of mobility that seamlessly intertwines with their lifestyle, making every moment an occasion to cherish.” More

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      Mahindra XUV400 OneOfOne Edition – Electric SUV Gets Chic

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      Special edition of Mahindra XUV400 is the outcome of a collaborative effort between automotive designer Pratap Bose and leading fashion icon Rimzim DaduMahindra XUV400 OneOfOne EditionUnveiled in September 2022, Mahindra XUV400 is scheduled to be launched next year. Equipped with multiple segment-first features and offering best-in-class range, XUV400 can emerge as a strong challenger to Tata Nexon EV. The latter currently enjoys the first-mover advantage and has market share of more than 80%.In the run-up to its launch, Mahindra has revealed a special edition of XUV400. A collaborative project involving Pratap Bose and Rimzim Dadu, the special edition of XUV400 is part of the Tech Fashion Tour Season 6, presented by Mahindra Automotive. Both Pratap and Rimzin are experts in their respective domains, which will ensure the best outcomes for the special edition of XUV400.XUV400 special editionGoing beyond the usual experimentations with metal, plastic and glass, the special edition of XUV400 focuses on using fabrics as a means to improve overall look and feel and ambience. Fabric options are virtually limitless based on various aspects such as colour tone, texture, type of weave, type of fibre, shine, etc. That’s where Rimzim Dadu’s expertise as a fashion icon comes into play.Primary objective is to create fabric-inspired themes that will complement XUV400’s core character and styling. Working together, Rimzim and Pratap have come up with some interesting design bits for the special edition of XUV400. For example, the twin-peaks copper hued Mahindra logo gets a blue outline, inspired by one of Rimzim’s exclusive creations.Mahindra XUV400 Electric One Of One Edition teased pic.twitter.com/2LYlAf5hPB— RushLane (@rushlane) November 29, 2022Similarly, there are other innovative uses of fabric-inspired elements to spruce up the interiors. ‘Rimzim + Bose’ branding elements have been used across interiors and exteriors. This special edition of XUV400 surely works in terms of creating unique user experiences. It makes the journey a bit more exciting, as enthusiasts wait for the launch of XUV400.XUV400 range, specsMahindra XUV400 is offering 456 km range, which is as per AIS 040 (Rev. 1) standard. In comparison, Nexon EV Max can run 437 km on a full charge in a laboratory environment (ARAI-certified). While the range difference between XUV400 and Nexon EV Max is not much, the former does get bragging rights for offering highest-in-segment range.XUV400 has an AC – synchronous motor, capable of generating 110 kW (147.5 hp) of max power at 5,500 rpm and 310 Nm of peak torque. It connects to a 39.4 kWh, 112 Ah battery pack, which has NMC (nickel, manganese and cobalt) electro-chemical composition. It weighs 309 kg. XUV400 top speed is rated at 150 kmph and it can achieve 0-100 kmph in 8.3 seconds. When launched, XUV400 will be the fastest Indian make passenger vehicle in non-luxury segment.Mahindra XUV400 OneOfOne EditionThere will be three variants of XUV400 – base-spec 5S, EP 5S and EL 5S. It will be roomier than Nexon EV Max, as it’s 4,200 mm long, 1,821 mm wide and 1,634 mm tall. XUV400 boot space will also be better than Nexon EV Max. More

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      MG Extender Based Electric Pickup Truck Debuts – 330 Km Range

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      LDV eT6 gets a single electric motor generating 174 bhp and 310 Nm and draws juice from an 88.55 kWh battery packMG Extender Based Electric eT60 pickup truckUtes as they are called down under in Australia, pickup trucks are some of the most sought-after. In South-East Asian markets, pickup trucks are very popular. One such pickup in Thailand is MG Extender and it is rebranded as a Maxus T60 Max pickup truck for certain markets. This is sold as a ute in Australia under LDV brand (Leyland DAF Group) as Maxus is a trademarked word over there.LDV T60 gets a sole 2.8L turbo diesel powertrain in Australia. That said, this pickup truck has now spawned an electric version called LDV eT60. It costs AUD 92,990 (approx Rs. 51.27 lakh, on road). In Australia it is considered expensive as the regular T60 costs between AUD 41,042 (approx Rs. 22.62 lakh, on road) to AUD 47,884 (approx Rs. 26.4 lakh, on road).Is India a viable market for this MG Extender based electric pickup truck? Should MG at least bring its ICE Extender pickup to India? Let’s take a look.MG Extender Based Electric Pickup Truck Launched In AustraliaFor the money it demands, LDV eT60 gets an 88.55 kWh battery pack. It isn’t on par with what American electric pickup trucks from Rivian, Ford and GM have to offer. Considering that eT60 gets a moderate powertrain, it might be par for the course. Speaking of powertrains, it gets a single motor powering the rear wheels.Load BayThe motor is capable of 174 hp or 130 kW and 310 Nm of torque. Top speed is capped at 120 km/h. eT60 comes off as a little bland in performance considering that Maxus T60 Max gets an option of a 2.0L twin-turbocharged diesel engine that makes 215 bhp of power and 500 Nm of torque. On top of it, eT60 weighs in at 2,300 kg, while ICE counterpart weighs up to 2,150 kg.eT6 promises a range of 330 km on a single charge (WLTP cycle). Both AC and DC fast charging are supported. AC charger supports up to 11 kW with 9 hours to charge from a 3-phase socket. Up to 80 kW of DC fast charging is supported via CCS2 charging socket. Charging time reduces drastically with 20% to 80% charge taking around 45 minutes.FeaturesMG Extender based electric pickup truck eT60 is decently kitted for what it is worth. Features like single zone AC, automatic headlights, automatic wipers, electrically adjustable front seats, leatherette upholstery and more. Infotainment system comprises a 10.25” unit that gets Apple CarPlay, reverse camera and four speakers.Interior17” alloy wheels, LED DRLs, LED tail lights, 6 airbags, ESP, brake assist, hill descent and ascent control, traction control and more. ADAS systems are given a miss. India has never been a pickup nation. That said, we have two pickup trucks to choose from. One being Isuzu V-Cross and the other being Toyota Hilux.Both of them have a reputation of being pricey for what they offer. MG is not bringing its Extender or an electric version of it, similar to LDV eT60, to Indian shores anytime soon. More

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      Mahindra XUV400 Electric Homologated – Variant, Power Details Leak

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      Considering its multitude of segment-first features and best-in-class range, XUV400 could be another bestseller from MahindraUpcoming Mahindra XUV400 Electric. Image – Ayush GuptaUnvieled on the eve of World EV Day in September 2022, Mahindra XUV400 has potential to emerge as a strong rival to Tata Nexon EV. It is built on the same platform as XUV300 and shares a significant percentage of the equipment list.Test drives for XUV400 are expected to commence in December, whereas prices are likely to be announced in January 2023. Ahead of its launch, details about XUV400 have been revealed via RTO-issued type approval certificate.Mahindra XUV400 variants, specsThere will be 3 variants on offer, the base-spec 5S, EP 5S and EL 5S. XUV400 is 4,200 mm long, 1,821 mm wide and 1,634 mm tall. Wheelbase is at 2,600 mm and gross vehicle weight is 1,960 kg. XUV400 has larger dimensions in comparison to its primary rival Nexon EV Max, which means roomier interiors and larger boot space. As compared to Nexon EV Max’s 350 litres boot space, XUV400 offers 378 litres.XUV400 is equipped with a 39.4 kWh battery pack with 112 Ah capacity. Electro-chemical composition of the battery is NMC (nickel, manganese and cobalt). The battery pack weighs 309 kg, making it the heaviest single component of the EV. Top speed of XUV400 is 150 kmph in both laden and unladen condition. 0-100 kmph is achieved in 8.3 seconds, making it the fastest Indian make passenger vehicle in non-luxury segment.Upcoming Mahindra XUV400 Electric SUV homologation details leakMahindra XUV400 utilizes an AC – synchronous motor that generates 110 kW (147.5 hp) of max power at 5,500 rpm and 310 Nm of peak torque. Max thirty minutes peak power is rated at 60 kW (80 hp) at 4,000 rpm. Range is 456 km, as per AIS 040 (Rev. 1) standard. This is higher than Nexon EV Max that has ARAI certified range of 437 km. Real-world range of XUV400 will determine how effective it will be in challenging Nexon EV.While the battery pack used for XUV400 has been manufactured by Mahindra Electric Mobility Ltd. in collaboration with Mahindra, the electric motor and battery controller will be sourced from China. These units will be manufactured by Valeo Siemens eAutomotive (Changshu) Co. Ltd. As battery pack is the costliest part of an EV, manufacturing it inhouse will allow Mahindra to launch XUV400 at a competitive price point. Base-spec model could be launched at around Rs 17 lakh.Mahindra XUV400 featuresMahindra XUV400 is distinguishable with its exciting colour options, contrasting copper highlights and closed-off grille. Unique X-shaped elements have been used across the grille and other parts, which add another layer of dynamism to the EV. Colour choices for XUV400 include Arctic Blue, Everest White, Galaxy Grey, Napoli Black and Infinity Blue.Interiors are quite similar to XUV300 with features such as sunroof, large touchscreen, 7 airbags, dual zone climate control and adjustable steering wheel. XUV400 will have multi drive modes of Fun, Fast and Fearless, each offering a unique mix of throttle, steering and regen. There will be a single pedal ‘Lively’ mode as well, a segment first feature designed especially for driving in heavy traffic. More