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    Vinfast VF 7 Spied On Truck – Heading For ARAI Certification?

    Vinfast VF 7 Spied On TruckThe Indian electric car market has been booming. More brands are taking a shot at this lucrative segment and Vinfast is one of them. Vietnamese electric car maker Vinfast is keen on launching VF6 and VF7 in India by 2nd half of 2025. In that regard, we can see VF 7 on a flatbed truck in Pune city, which seems to be heading for ARAI certification.
    Vinfast VF 7 Spied
    At the Auto Expo 2025, Vinfast showcased a multitude of vehicles. We saw the VF 3, VF 6, VF 7, VF 8, VF 9, VF e34 and VF Wild pickup truck concept in 4W section and Evo 200, Klara, Feliz, Vento and Theon scooters along with DrgnFly electric motorcycle. Of these, VF e34 has been spied testing with camouflage back in June 2024.
    Vinfast VF 7 Spied
    For 2025, primary interests of these showcases are VF 6 and VF 7 electric vehicles as they are confirmed to launch in 2nd half of 2025. In latest spy shots, we can see two VF 7 electric crossover SUVs on flatbed pickup trucks near PCMC area of Pune City in Maharashtra. Both vehicles are not camouflaged and can be seen without intrusions.
    One has a dark shade, which looks like the Green colour option Vinfast has in global markets. The other one is White. Both vehicles looked like they packed Black wheels which looks quite nice. Both vehicles get flush door handles along with charging port on front quarter panel. These are highly likely to be transported to ARAI for homologation purposes.
    Vinfast VF 7 Spied
    Heading for ARAI certification?
    This indicates that the launch might be slated to originally planned timeline around 2nd half of 2025, which is nearing swiftly. The two vehicles spotted could be two different variants of VF 7. Speaking of, Vinfast VF 7 is offered (globally) in 2 variants. These variants are called Eco (base) and Plus (top).
    Both variants get the same 75.3 kWh battery, while there is difference in performance and range. Eco variant has more range at 280 miles (450 km), while Plus only offers 268 miles (431 km) (both WLTP cycle). Where performance is concerned, Plus packs 348 bhp and 499 Nm, whereas Eco variant packs 201 bhp and 309 Nm.
    Vinfast VF 7 Spied
    Vinfast VF 7 comes with the company’s distinct design language and promises to offer a premium experience for discerning buyers. Vegan leather seats, panoramic glass roof, LED lighting and other features are notable. It measures 4,545 mm in length, 1,890 mm in width and 1,635.75 mm in height and has a wheelbase measuring 2,840 mm in length. More

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    MG Windsor Records 20,000 Sales Milestone in 6 Months – Fastest for an EV in India

    MG Windsor
    JSW MG Motor India today celebrated a major milestone with its all-electric MG Windsor. Within just six months of launch, Windsor has crossed 20,000 units sold, making it the fastest EV model in India to achieve this landmark.
    Strong Demand Across Metros and Emerging Markets
    The Windsor has been witnessing strong sales momentum not just in major metro cities but also in emerging markets, highlighting the growing appeal of electric vehicles across India. Rakesh Sen, Director Sales & Marketing, JSW MG Motor India, expressed delight at the achievement. “Since its launch, the MG Windsor has delighted car buyers with its exceptional value proposition. Customers have praised its futuristic design, intuitive tech features, spacious cabin, all combined with a sustainable and pocket friendly driving experience.
    In addition, with the MG Windsor, we have successfully addressed category barriers and dispelled several myths around EVs in India through our innovative approach. This has enabled newer customers to adapt to the EV lifestyle. These factors have propelled MG Windsor to become the fastest EV model to achieve 20,000 sales milestone in record time.”
    Setting New Benchmarks in India’s EV Revolution
    Launched as India’s first Intelligent CUV, the MG Windsor has blended the comfort of a sedan with the versatility of an SUV. Offered with an introductory Battery-as-a-Service (BaaS) model at INR 9.99 lakh + INR 3.9/km, the Windsor has redefined value in the EV segment.
    Powering the MG Windsor is a 38 kWh lithium-ion battery pack, delivering 100 kW (136 PS) of power and 200 Nm of torque. It offers an impressive 332 km ARAI-certified range on a single charge. Designed with the futuristic AeroGlide design language, Windsor brings business-class comfort inside with its 135-degree reclinable Aero Lounge seats. A massive 15.6-inch touchscreen elevates the driving experience with seamless connectivity and intuitive controls. The 20,000 sales milestone further cements MG Windsor’s position as a trendsetter and key force in accelerating EV adoption in India. More

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    BYD’s Make In India Plans Dashed – Government Says ‘No’

    BYD Sealion 7Indian government has raised concerns about China’s non-market economy and potential links of Chinese companies to the PLA
    Last month in March, it was reported that BYD will start local manufacturing in India in Hyderabad. The plan was to set up a new manufacturing facility that will have annual production capacity of 6 lakh units by 2032. However, a recent statement by Piyush Goel, Union Minister of Commerce and Industry, reveals that BYD’s expansion plan in India is essentially scrapped for now.
    BYD India Manufacturing Plant
    Border issues and China’s ambitions in the Indian Ocean and India’s neighbouring countries have prompted government officials to take a cautious approach. While both countries are working to strengthen relations, it may take a long time to settle all the issues and build confidence. These sentiments were echoed by Goyal during his recent interview with Bloomberg Television.
    Replying to a query about BYD, Piyush Goyal said that India has to look into its strategic interests. It implies that there will be strict scrutiny in terms of who could be allowed to invest. Goyal clearly said “no” in terms of BYD’s plans to expand its presence in India.
    This follows the earlier decision in July 2023 when BYD’s $1 billion (Rs 8,200 crore) investment proposal was rejected by the Indian government. The investment plan comprised building a new production plant in collaboration with Hyderabad-based Megha Engineering & Infrastructures.
    BYD eMAX 7
    Road ahead for BYD in India
    Till things improve, BYD is likely to continue using the CBU route to sell its all-electric cars in India. Starting with the Atto 3, BYD has introduced new models at regular intervals. BYD’s India portfolio includes the Seal sedan, Sealion 7 SUV and BYD eMAX 7 MPV. Even with the CBU route, BYD has posted an impressive annual growth of 90.32%. Sales have zoomed to 3,401 units in FY25, as compared to 1,787 units in FY24.
    In March, the carmaker registered a YoY growth of 175%. Sales have increased from 144 units in March 2024 to 396 units in March 2025. This has been made possible with the introduction of newer models and expansion of the dealer network. Going forward, BYD will be aiming to further add new dealerships and target Tier-II cities as well.
    Hurdles for Chinese carmakers
    Due to geopolitical issues between the two countries, Chinese carmakers have faced resistance in terms of investment and local expansion. Earlier, Great Wall Motor’s (GMW) plan to enter India was halted due to regulatory policies that called for strict scrutiny of Chinese investments.
    BYD Seal EV
    GMW had planned an investment of $1 billion and was looking to acquire General Motors’ Talegaon plant in Maharashtra. However, due to border conflicts and policy changes, GMW exited from India in 2022. As for the General Motors’ plant, it was acquired by Hyundai. China being a non-market economy, policy makers in India have raised concerns about the Chinese government’s influence over China-based businesses.
    Lack of transparency in business ownership in China is another concern. Factors like government-sponsored subsidies and loan write-offs for China-based businesses can create unfair competition in overseas markets such as India. These apprehensions have prompted policy makers in India to limit Chinese investment.
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    BYD Sealion 7 Scores 5 Star Safety Rating – Euro NCAP Crash Tests

    BYD Sealion 7 Scores 5 Star SafetyIn an important development for electric vehicle safety standards, the new BYD Sealion 7 has achieved impressive results in Euro NCAP crash tests. The all-electric SUV, tested in its ‘Comfort’ variant (LHD), received an overall strong safety rating, setting a new benchmark among large electric SUVs. BYD Sealion 7 was launched in India in Feb 2025, for a starting price of Rs 48.9 lakh, ex-sh.
    Outstanding Safety Performance
    The BYD Sealion 7 scored:
    – 87% for Adult Occupant Protection– 93% for Child Occupant Protection– 76% for Vulnerable Road Users– 79% for Safety Assist Systems
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    These scores place the Sealion 7 among the top contenders in its class for comprehensive occupant and pedestrian safety.
    Adult Occupant Protection: Strong and Stable
    During frontal offset crash tests, the Sealion 7’s passenger compartment remained stable. It showed excellent protection for critical body areas such as knees and femurs, for both driver and front passenger. In the full-width rigid barrier test, protection for rear seat passengers’ chests was rated as ‘weak’, but otherwise the car demonstrated good safety performance across all other critical areas.
    BYD Sealion 7 Scores 5 Star Safety
    In side barrier and pole impact tests, the SUV scored maximum points, offering good protection to all critical body areas. Whiplash protection for front and rear seats was also rated as good.
    Child Safety: Top Marks
    The Sealion 7 impressed in child occupant safety, scoring 93%. In both frontal and side crash tests, the SUV provided good protection for 6- and 10-year-old child dummies. The car is equipped with ISOFIX mounts and a ‘child presence detection’ system that alerts if a child is left unattended.
    Vulnerable Road Users: Room for Improvement
    In terms of pedestrian and cyclist safety, the BYD Sealion 7 scored 76%. While the car’s autonomous emergency braking (AEB) system performed well in detecting pedestrians, cyclists, and motorcyclists, some areas like head protection near the windshield pillars and cyclist dooring prevention were rated as marginal.
    Safety Assistance Systems: Well Equipped
    The Sealion 7 features a comprehensive suite of driver assistance systems, including:
    – Autonomous emergency braking (AEB) with vehicle, pedestrian, and cyclist detection– Lane keep assist and emergency lane keeping– Speed limit recognition and intelligent speed assistance– Direct driver monitoring system for fatigue and distraction detection
    All seating positions are equipped with seatbelt reminders, and the Sealion 7 includes an advanced eCall system and multi-collision braking system as standard.
    The BYD Sealion 7’s crash test results highlight the brand’s strong commitment to safety in the rapidly growing electric SUV segment. With high scores across adult and child occupant protection, and well-rounded safety assistance features, the Sealion 7 makes a compelling case for customers seeking a safe, feature-rich electric SUV in 2025. More

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    Mahindra Delivers 3,000 Electric Origin SUVs – XEV 9e and BE 6 Waiting Period Up To 6 Months

    Mahindra Electric SUVs – DeliveryMahindra has achieved a significant milestone in its electric journey by delivering over 3,000 units of its all-electric Origin SUVs—XEV 9e and BE 6 — since deliveries commenced on March 20, 2025. The announcement marks a strong start for Mahindra’s next-generation EV lineup, reinforcing growing customer trust and enthusiasm for electric mobility.
    Record EV Deliveries In Record Time
    Both the XEV 9e and BE 6 have received an overwhelming response in the market, with the majority of customers opting for the top-spec Pack Three variant. Current booking data reveals a 59% preference for the XEV 9e and 41% for the BE 6. Given the high demand, waiting periods now extend up to six months in select regions. To address this, Mahindra is scaling up deliveries across the country to reduce wait times and ensure a smooth ownership experience.
    Mahindra Delivers 3000 Electric Origin SUVs
    In a customer-centric move, Mahindra has introduced a new ‘Default’ drive mode specially designed for first-time EV adopters. This mode replicates the driving characteristics of internal combustion vehicles, making the transition to electric smoother, more natural, and immediately comfortable for new owners.
    Additionally, each Origin SUV delivery is accompanied by curated video guides that walk customers through EV best practices—ranging from efficient charging techniques to optimizing driving range and understanding the vehicle’s advanced connected features. These resources aim to empower customers to get the most out of their electric SUVs right from day one.
    Mahindra India Design Studio
    Mahindra recently inaugurated its all-new Mahindra India Design Studio (MIDS) in Mumbai, marking a bold leap forward in its design capabilities. This state-of-the-art facility doubles the size of the previous studio and is equipped with cutting-edge design technologies, blending digital tools with traditional craftsmanship. Serving as a key creative hub for both domestic and global markets, MIDS will closely collaborate with Mahindra Advanced Design Europe (MADE) in the UK.
    With a growing product portfolio across Auto, Farm, and Last Mile Mobility, the new design studio is set to shape Mahindra’s next-generation vehicles—including the new electric Origin SUVs, XEV 9e and BE 6, which stand out with their futuristic, globally competitive design language that redefines the perception of Indian cars. More

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    Cheaper Bajaj Electric Rickshaw Spied In Jammu Ahead Of Launch

    Cheaper Bajaj Electric Rickshaw Spied by Jayant KerniBajaj Auto is gearing up to introduce a new, more affordable electric rickshaw aimed at countering the wave of low-cost, unbranded, and imported electric three-wheelers currently dominating the market. After filing a design patent for this new EV in March 2025, the first camouflaged test mule has now been spied on public roads near Jammu, suggesting that launch preparations are gaining momentum.
    Bajaj’s Answer to Low-Cost E-Rickshaws
    Hat tip to automotive enthusiast Jayant Kerni for sharing the exclusive spy shots. The heavily camouflaged prototype closely resembles the patent images seen earlier, confirming Bajaj’s focus on a simple, spacious, and cost-effective design. The rickshaw carries a boxy silhouette, optimizing interior space for passengers — a smart move to appeal to operators looking to maximize trip revenues.
    Cheaper Bajaj Electric Rickshaw Spied
    Up front, the prototype sports basic circular headlights and a large windscreen, prioritizing visibility. On the inside, the flat seats and minimalistic cabin highlight Bajaj’s focus on practicality and ease of production, keeping costs in check. Despite the cost-cutting, it’s expected that Bajaj will maintain its high standards of build quality, battery reliability, and safety – key concerns with many of the cheaper, unbranded rivals.
    Bajaj Patents New Electric 3 Wheeler
    Focus on Affordability, Safety, and Reliability
    Unlike many Chinese-imported kits flooding the segment, Bajaj’s upcoming rickshaw will likely be equipped with a better-tested battery pack, promising longer range, faster charging, and an overall longer life cycle. It is expected to offer benefits like roadside assistance, warranties for both vehicle and battery, and easier access to service networks — advantages that many unbranded options cannot match.
    Cheaper Bajaj Electric Rickshaw Spied
    While specific technical details remain under wraps, the new affordable Bajaj electric rickshaw could borrow lessons from the recently launched Bajaj GOGO electric rickshaw, which boasts a best-in-class 251 km range. Similar strengths could make Bajaj’s upcoming product an attractive option for fleet operators and individual owners alike.
    Cheaper Bajaj Electric Rickshaw Spied
    Launch Timeline
    Bajaj’s entry in the lower-cost electric rickshaw segment will surely heat up competition and offer buyers a trusted alternative to the existing unorganized market. An official announcement regarding its launch could follow soon, given that road testing has already begun. Stay tuned for more updates as Bajaj’s budget electric three-wheeler inches closer to production!
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    Tata EV Discounts April 2025 Up To Rs 1.5 Lakh – Punch, Nexon, Curvv, Tiago

    New Tata Curvv EV – Voyager AamirFor the month of April 2025, Tata Motors is offering discounts of up to Rs 1.5 lakh on its ICE portfolio which we covered in a recent post. In this post, we will take a look at the discounts Tata Motors is offering on its electric car portfolio. The max ceiling is up to Rs 1.5 lakh consisting of multiple benefits and some of them can’t be clubbed together.
    The company’s consumer offer consists of Green Bonus along with Exchange or Scrappage bonus. On top of it, consumers can benefit Additional Scrappage or Exchange bonus, additional Green Bonus and lastly, we have Loyalty Bonus on existing Tata customers of both ICE and electric vehicles. Let’s take a closer look.

    Tata EV Discounts April 2025 – MY24 Consumer Offer
    Nexon EV
    For the month of April 2025, Tata is offering Nexon EV with attractive benefits. For MY24 Nexon EV, consumer offer goes till Rs 40,000, additional scrappage or exchange bonus of Rs 30,000 and loyalty bonus of up to Rs 50,000 for Tata EV owners and Rs 20,000 for Tata ICE owners. However, Nexon doesn’t get additional consumer offer on MY24 model.
    There is no consumer offer on MY25 Nexon, but Tata is giving additional scrappage or exchange offer of up to Rs 30,000.

    Tata EV Discounts April 2025 – MY24 Additional Consumer Offer
    Punch EV
    Tata’s rockstar in the electric lineup, Punch EV, has been bestowed with discounts of up to Rs 70,000 on MY24 models. Additional intervention consumer offer on MY24 Punch is Rs 20,000 and additional scrappage or exchange offer is Rs 30,000. There’s no loyalty bonus on Punch.
    Where MY25 versions of Punch are concerned, Punch EV gets up to Rs 40,000 consumer offer along with Rs 10,000 additional scrappage or exchange bonus.
    Tata EV Discounts April 2025 – MY24 Additional Scrappage or Exchange Offer
    Tiago EV
    The highest discounts within Tata’s electric vehicle lineup can be seen offered on Tiago EV. In particular, the MY24 version which gets a consumer offer of up to Rs 85,000, additional consumer bonus of up to Rs 15,000 and additional scrappage or exchange offer of up to Rs 30,000. Where MY25 Tiago EV is concerned, consumer offer is Rs 40,000 and additional scrappage or exchange offer is Rs 10,000.
    Tata EV Discounts April 2025 – MY25 Consumer Offer
    Curvv EV
    Just like Punch EV, Tata is also offering Curvv EV with Rs 70,000 consumer offer on MY24 versions. Unlike Punch EV, MY24 Curvv EV gets this on all variants. There’s no additional consumer offer with Curvv EV, but Tata is giving additional scrappage or exchange discounts of Rs 30,000 along with loyalty bonus of up to Rs 50,000.
    Tata EV Discounts April 2025 – MY25 Additional Scrappage or Exchange Offer
    MY25 Curvv EV do not get any consumer offer and additional consumer offers. However, Tata is offering additional scrappage or exchange offer on MY25 Curvv EV of up to Rs 30,000.
    Tata EV Discounts April 2025 – Loyalty Offer
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    Hyundai Insteroid Concept Revealed – Inster EV On Steroids

    Hyundai Insteroid Concept RevealedA gamified version of the popular Inster EV, the Insteroid concept boasts a radical design and specialized equipment
    Over the years, we have seen numerous crazy car customizations. However, most of these are the creations of professional custom car builders. Carmakers also create exciting concepts, but truly whacky designs are not the norm. Only on some occasions do we see carmakers running wild with their concept ideas.
    A relevant example is this Insteroid concept, created by Hyundai Motor’s European design team. It is designed to fit right into a Cyberpunk world with one of the wildest designs we have seen from Hyundai. Let’s explore the details of this fascinating concept car.
    Hyundai Insteroid Concept
    Hyundai Insteroid – Gaming-inspired concept car
    It’s easy to guess that the name Insteroid comes from the combo of Inster + Steroid. The teaser video has the same theme, where Inster EV is shown transforming into the Insteroid concept car. In line with the gaming theme, the entire transformation of Inster EV is presented as a ‘glitch’.
    It essentially conveys the message that the idea for Insteroid concept may have come from sources far more accomplished than human creativity and imagination. In the practical realm of human understanding, the Insteroid concept is of course the work of human minds. Crafted by Hyundai Motor’s European design team, the Insteroid concept is as radical as it gets.
    Hyundai Insteroid Concept
    This subcompact EV concept has gamified styling and features across exteriors and interiors. Some of the key features include a wide-body design, big wheels for racing and an extra-large wing spoiler at the rear. Air flaps are integrated into the wheel arches to achieve advanced aerodynamics.
    Gamified interiors
    Inside, the gamification of the cabin and cockpit is more intense. Some of the key features include a completely stripped-down look and feel, a roll cage, bucket seats and a specialized steering wheel. Sitting inside the Insteroid concept could be one of the best possible experiences of a 3D gaming environment.
    Hyundai Insteroid Concept
    Another interesting aspect is that all the control elements are fully adjustable. It includes everything from the buttons to the instrument cluster. Customization options with the Insteroid concept are quite similar to options available with video games. It also gives the feel of a garage-built track machine.
    For a more immersive experience, the Insteroid concept has been equipped with a unique sound signature. There are various gaming-inspired features such as Message Grid and Beat House sound system. The Boost icon can be seen in multiple places, which enhances the gaming experience. Another notable feature is the Drift Mode, which unlocks more thrilling driving experiences.
    Hyundai Insteroid Concept
    Hyundai Insteroid – When is it launching?
    While enthusiasts will surely be interested in driving the Insteroid, this concept is unfortunately not meant for production. Hyundai has clearly mentioned that Insteroid is all about pushing the boundaries of automotive design and challenging human creativity. It is not designed for the assembly line.
    However, enthusiasts can always access the Inster EV, popular for its sporty profile and peppy performance. Hyundai Inster EV is available in multiple markets including its home market South Korea, Japan and Europe. It is expected that Hyundai will introduce the Inster EV in India around June 2026. It could be offered here at a starting price of around Rs 12 lakh. More