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      2022 Tata Nexon Electric With 400 Kms Drive Range – Larger Battery

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      Image – HemankIt’s imperative for Tata Motors to upgrade its EVs, as several new and possibly better-equipped products are expected in 2022-23 and beyond
      Tata Motors EV portfolio currently has Nexon EV and Tigor EV. Early adopters have significant preference for Nexon EV, as it offers a desirable balance between pricing and range. It explains why Nexon EV is currently the top selling electric car in the country.
      2022 Tata Nexon Electric With 400 Kms Range
      In its current form, Nexon EV is powered by a 30.2kWh lithium-ion battery pack. Certified range is 312 km on a full charge. However, in real world conditions, users have reported getting around 180-200 km. While this may be sufficient for everyday city commutes, it does not suffice for longer journeys.
      For inter-city and inter-state travel, Nexon EV has to be upgraded with longer range. In its current form, Nexon EV will have to make frequent stops at charging stations. As a solution to such issues and to make Nexon EV comparable to standard fossil-fuel based cars, Tata Motors is working on a longer-range version of Nexon EV. This is expected to be launched around mid 2022.
      Long range edition of Nexon EV will be equipped with a larger 40kWh capacity battery pack. With the new battery pack, weight of the car is expected to increase by around 100 kg. Range will increase to more than 400 kms on full charge. True range is expected to be around 300-320 kms. This is close to range available with premium electric cars such as MG ZS EV and Hyundai Kona EV.
      Tata Nexon EV
      Other updates like selectable regenerative braking and Electronic Stability Program (ESP) are also on the cards for Nexon EV. As of now, the regenerative braking system on Nexon EV is a mild version. It does not allow users to make adjustments. The new regen system will have selectable options that will allow users to control the intensity of regenerative braking. When the max possible regen setting is selected, it will help boost range in a significant manner.
      Nexon long range EV could get some visual updates such as new colour options and a new set of alloy wheels. There can be some changes on the inside as well. It is to note that current Nexon EV model will continue to be sold alongside the long-range variant.
      Tata Nexon EV Long Range price
      With the larger battery pack and other updates, long-range Nexon EV is expected to cost Rs 3-4 lakh more than the current model. Even with increased pricing, Nexon EV will still be cheaper than other electric cars in its class. The current model is available at a starting price of Rs 14.24 lakh (ex-sh). Top-spec Nexon EV Dark XZ+ LUX variant is priced at Rs 16.85 lakh.
      Tata Motors has chalked out aggressive plans for EV segment. Its EV portfolio is expected to grow to 10 EVs by 2026. To make it possible, the company recently launched a new EV arm called Tata Passenger Electric Mobility Limited (TPEML). This new entity will cater to all aspects of EVs including their design, development, manufacturing, sales, marketing and after sales services.
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      Tata Motors Launches EV Subsidiary – Tata Passenger Electric Mobility Ltd. (TPEML)

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      Tata Tigor Electric SedanWith the new EV subsidiary, Tata Motors will be looking to bolster its presence in EV space
      One of the early entrants in EV space, Tata Motors currently leads with market share of around 70%. A significant percentage of the company’s EV sales comprise Tata Nexon EV. Tata Motors also has Tigor EV, which was recently updated with visual enhancements and more capable powertrain. The company’s cumulative EV sales had crossed the 10k milestone earlier this year in September.
      As competitive in EV space is expected to increase significantly in coming years, Tata Motors feels it will be better to step-up focus in this segment. Towards that end, Tata Motors has formed a new wholly-owned subsidiary named Tata Passenger Electric Mobility Limited (TPEML). The new entity will commence operations with initial capital of Rs 700 crore. Necessary approval for the new arm has been received from Ministry of Corporate Affairs.
      TPEML focus areas
      TPEML will cater to all aspects of R&D, design, development, manufacturing, assembly, fabrication, sales, marketing, after sales services and servicing of electric vehicles. This will be applicable for hybrid electric vehicles as well. The company will look into design and development of motors, parts, components, accessories and other related equipment.
      It can also consider development of other types of vehicles that are powered by electricity or solar energy. This indicates that TPEML has a much larger agenda in mind and is not limited to manufacturing of passenger EVs.
      Tata Nexon Electric
      Threat from rivals
      EV ecosystem in the country is developing at a fast pace. Quite a few electric cars are now available here such as Jaguar I-Pace, Porsche Taycan, Audi e-Tron GT and Mercedes-Benz EQC electric SUV. These are not a threat to Tata Motors current EV portfolio, but things can change if and when the company decides to target the premium EV space.
      Talking about Tata’s bestselling Nexon EV, it is expected to face some stiff competition soon. Carmakers like MG Motor, Kia, Hyundai and Mahindra are working on their respective entry-level electric cars. For example, Hyundai has plans to introduce six new EVs in India. At least one of these will rival Tata Nexon EV.
      MG Motor is also said to be working on a mass-market EV that will rival Nexon EV. MG’s second EV for India is expected to be priced in the range of Rs 10-15 lakh. MG currently has the ZS EV in India, which is the second bestselling EV in the country.
      TPEML will be actively evaluating all these emerging threats. It will collaborate with its parent company to add more EVs to the existing portfolio. A lot of work also needs to be done in terms of upgrading existing powertrain and boosting range. Other things such as compliance with new safety rules and development of Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS) and autonomous driving tech could also be on the agenda. More

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      BMW iX Electric SUV India Launch Price Rs 1.16 Cr – Range 425 Kms

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      New BMW iX Electric SUV India LaunchThe all-electric BMW iX has been launched in India as a Completely Built Up (CBU) – Rivals include EVs from Mercedes, Audi, Jaguar
      BMW India today announced the launch of its first electric car – The iX SUV. The new iX is offered in a single variant of iX xDrive 40 – priced at Rs 1,15,90,000, ex-sh. It comes with a dual electric motor set up with one motor positioned on each axle with all-wheel drive function.
      BMW iX – Design
      BMW has given the new iX electric SUV a more futuristic stance so as to differentiate it from its ICE powered models. It sports a large kidney shaped front grille, sleek headlamps with a quarter light band, similar looking tail lamps and a clamshell bonnet design. It gets frameless doors. The iX rides on 21 inch aerodynamically optimized wheels fitted with 255/50 profile tyres.
      New BMW iX Electric SUV India Launch
      Interior arrangement will be much the same as is seen on the BMW X7. It will get a hexagonal shaped steering wheel, a curved structure housing a 12.3 inch instrument cluster and 14.9 inch infotainment display, tilted towards the driver.
      Seating is fitted with microfiber fabric. BMW iDrive rotary controller is set on the forward section of the high mounted arm rest while other controls are positioned on upper part of the door. Features on offer include BMW Curved Display, BMW ConnectedDrive, BMW Virtual Assistant, BMW Natural Interaction, wireless charging, wireless Android Auto / Apple Carplay, Parking Assistant Plus, Harman Kardon Surround Sound System with 18 speakers, Reversing Assistant, etc.
      New BMW iX Electric SUV India Launch
      BMW iX Electric SUV Specs
      BMW iX xDrive 40 comes with a 76.6kWh battery pack. It delivers a max power output of 326 hp and 620 Nm of torque. On a full charge, driving range is up to 425 kms. Acceleration from 0 to 100 km/h will be possible in 6.1 seconds.
      BMW iX Electric – Specs for India
      BMW also has a more powerful iX xDrive 50 available in the international market. But that has not been launched in India today. It has a larger 105.2 kWh battery, that produces 523 hp power and 765 Nm torque. It delivers a drive range of up to 611 kms on WLTP cycle. Acceleration from 0 to 100 km/h is achieved in 4.6 seconds.
      Charging time for the iX Drive 40 is as follows;– 150 kW DC Charger – 80% in 31 min / 95 kms added range in 10 min– 50 kW DC Charger – 80% in 73 min / 100 kms added range in 21 min– 11 kW AC Charger – 100% in about 7 hrs / 100 kms added range in 2.5 hrs
      New BMW iX Electric SUV India Launch
      Colour options on offer are – Mineral White, Phytonic Blue, Black Sapphire and Sophisto Grey. BMW Individual Aventurine Red metallic paint finish is offered as option. Exclusive olive-leaf tanned natural leather upholstery ‘Interior Design Suite’ comes in Castanea colour scheme.
      BMW iX comes with standard two-year warranty for unlimited kilometres. The batteries are covered by a warranty valid for eight years or up to 160,000 kilometres. Repair Inclusive can extend warranty benefits from third year of operation to maximum fifth year without any mileage limitation. BMW iX will rival the likes of Mercedes-Benz EQC, Audi e-tron and Jaguar I-PACE, etc in the luxury EV segment of India. More

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      Maruti Ignis Electric Conversion Kit Launched By Northway – 240 Kms Range

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      Maruti Ignis Electric Conversion KitPune based Northway has launched Maruti Ignis Electric conversion kit – Total cost will be cheaper than top selling Tata Nexon EV
      A leading name in EV R&D and EV conversion kits, Pune-based Northway has launched EV conversion kit for Maruti Ignis. The model used for this project is 2022 Ignis Alpha MT variant. Total cost of the kit and the car comes to Rs 12.5 lakh for standard range (120 kms) kit and Rs 14.5 lakh for long range (240 kms) kit.
      The conversion kit will be available for Ignis MT 2021 and later models. Northway also offers electric conversion kits for other vehicles such as Swift Dzire and Tata Ace.
      Maruti Ignis electric with manual transmission
      When talking about electric cars, it’s difficult to imagine that it will have anything but automatic transmission. However, folks at Northway have dared to stray away from established industry standards. Their pre-convert Maruti Ignis Electric has been equipped with manual transmission, which offers multiple benefits.
      In real-world conditions, Ignis EV with manual transmission can supply extra torque whenever needed. This can come handy in situations like heavy traffic when one needs to accelerate fast from stop position. Take a look at the first drive experience shared by Northway in the video below.
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      It can also be useful while overtaking another vehicle, especially when the car is climbing a slope. Ignis EV with manual transmission will also appeal to folks who just love the experience of shifting gears.
      Another benefit is that the manual transmission can supply braking power. For this, users just need to shift to lower gears such as second gear. This in turn will recharge the battery via the regenerative braking system installed in the car. In traffic conditions and during downhill journeys in mountainous regions, using the lower gears as braking aid can provide tangible improvements in range.
      Maruti Ignis Electric also meets the needs of folks who prefer automatic transmission. Although the car has manual transmission, there is no compulsion that users will have to change gears every time they want to accelerate. For an automatic experience, users just need to use the car in top gears like third and fourth gear. In this way, the car will function similar to an automatic electric car.
      While testing Maruti Ignis Electric kit, Tesla was spotted
      Maruti Ignis Electric – range and specs
      Pre-convert Maruti Suzuki Ignis EV is available with two battery configurations. With Drive CT, max range is 120 km. This can work for folks who plan to use the car only for city-specific commutes.
      Users looking for longer range can choose Inter CT, which offers 240 km. Top speed of the car is rated at 140 kmph. It generates 170 Nm of max torque. The car can be charged at home or any of the available charging stations. Charging time is in the range of 3-7 hours.
      Key things to note here is that OEM warranty will be void once the car is converted to electric. For the conversion kit, the warranty is 60,000 km or 2 years, whichever is earlier. The converted car is street-legal, as all the necessary approvals and documents will be provided by RTO. However, users won’t be eligible for any subsidies, as there are currently no such rules for EV retro fit kits. More

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      New MG Electric Car For India Planned – Launch In Rs 10 L To 15 L Range

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      MG One SUV – Image for reference.With pricing in range of Rs 10-15 lakh, MG’s new electric car will take on Tata Nexon EV and Hyundai’s upcoming electric car
      While SUV segment is currently the focus area for most carmakers, the next big battle will be in EV space. Estimates indicate that EV sales will witness CAGR of 53% by 2028. Sales are expected to zoom to around 1.75 lakh units per year by 2028. A significant percentage of the sales will comprise entry-level electric cars like Nexon EV.
      Among the auto companies that are planning to take an early lead in this space is MG Motor. MG already offers its ZS EV in India, which is the second bestselling EV in India, after Tata Nexon EV. ZS EV is a premium electric car, available at a starting price of Rs 21 lakh. Due to its high pricing, it cannot be expected to generate high volumes.
      New MG Electric Car For India
      MG’s new electric car will directly rival Nexon EV. It will be available in the price range of Rs 10-15 lakh. In comparison, Nexon EV is available in the range of Rs 14.24 lakh to Rs 16.85 lakh.
      There could be more rivals for MG, as other carmakers like Hyundai are also planning to launch entry-level electric cars in India. Hyundai is planning multiple electric cars In India, one of which will be Nexon EV rival. It could be based on existing petrol-powered cars such as Venue or i10 Nios.
      New MG5 Sedan. Image for reference.
      MG Motor is encouraged by the fact that government has provided significant clarity on EV roadmap in the country. It motivates the company to aggressively target this space. MG Motor feels that it should be able to launch its new electric car in India by end of next financial year. MG’s new EV will be based on a global platform. However, it will be customized to meet Indian drive conditions, regulations and local tastes and preferences.
      Focus on localization
      In addition to domestic sales, MG Motor will be also targeting exports of its new EV. It will primarily cater to other emerging markets in Asia. MG Motor will be looking to utilize the government’s PLI (Production Linked Incentive) scheme, wherein cash incentives are given to manufacturers based on production.
      PLI scheme was recently extended for auto sector, auto components and battery manufacturing. For its new electric car, MG will target high level of localization that covers motor, battery and other parts. MG’s new electric car could be a better match to the likes of Nexon EV. It is likely to have a comprehensive range of features. If competitively priced, it could beat Nexon EV in the numbers game.
      Even the premium MG ZS EV has considerable demand in India. There are currently more than 2,000 pending orders, primarily due to global shortage of semiconductor chips. Due to this, monthly deliveries are limited to around 250-300 units. As the situation improves, MG hopes to increase supply to 500-600 units per month from February 2022 onwards. More

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      Renault Kwid Electric Crash Tested – Scores 1 Star Safety In Euro NCAP

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      Renault Kwid Electric Crash TestIn October last year, Renault Kwid electric car made its global debut in Europe – As the Dacia Spring EV
      Renault launched their most affordable electric small car under the brand name of their subsidiary Dacia in Europe. Called Dacia Spring, it is available in two trims of Comfort and Comfort Plus. The base Comfort trim costs €10,920 (Rs 9.3 lakh). Top variant is priced at €12,220 (Rs 10.42 lakh) in Germany. These prices are inclusive of govt grant of about €9,500 (Rs 8.16 lakh).
      The Dacia Spring electric is basically the European version of China’s Renault City K-ZE and an electric version of India’s Renault Kwid. It is among the most affordable electric vehicle sold in Europe. Until now, safety rating was not available.
      Renault Kwid Electric Crash Test By Euro NCAP
      Euro NCAP has crash tested the Renault Kwid electric car, and given it a 1 star safety rating. The model that was tested weighed 970 kgs, and came with dual front airbags. It also got side head airbag and side chest airbag – for both the driver as well as front passenger.
      In their comments for adult safety, Euro NCAP stated, “The passenger compartment of the Spring remained stable in the frontal offset test. Readings of several parameters in the dummies’ legs were high, indicating poor protection, and structures in the dashboard presented a risk of injury to occupants of different sizes and to those sitting in different positions.
      [embedded content]
      Protection of the driver dummy’s chest was also rated as poor, based on readings of chest compression during the test. The pelvis of the driver was also poorly protected with dummy readings exceeding recommended values. Analysis of the deceleration of the impact trolley during the test, and of the deformation of the barrier afterwards, revealed that the Spring would be a benign crash partner to other vehicles.
      In the full width rigid barrier test, the head of the rear passenger was penalised for the extent to which it moved forward, and protection was rated as poor. Chest protection of both occupants was rated as marginal, based on measurements of compression. In both the side barrier test and the more severe side pole impact, rib compression indicated marginal levels of chest protection, but that of other critical body areas was good.
      The Spring is not equipped with a centre airbag to protect against occupant to occupant injuries in side impacts. Tests on the front seats and head restraints demonstrated good protection against whiplash injures in the event of a rear-end collision.
      Renault Kwid Electric Crash Test
      However, a geometric assessment of the rear seats indicated poor whiplash protection. The Spring has an advanced eCall system which partially fulfilled Euro NCAP’s requirements, and the car has no multi-collision braking system to prevent secondary impacts. The score was penalised for the high forces needed to open the door post-impact.”
      Renault Kwid Electric / Dacia Spring – Specs
      It sports a grey body colour with fluorescent orange accents and gets high ground clearance, faux skid plates and an aggressive bumper design. All LED lights are seen at the front while there is a horizontal strip positioned on the upper section with 4 graphic features built into the bumper. The rear sports 4 full LED lights with double Y effect.
      Dacia states that this Spring Electric will be ideally suited for semi urban, urban use and is directed to both fleet and private buyers. It is positioned under the Dacia Sandero. It measures 3.37meters in length, 1.57m wide, 1.48m tall, and has a 2.4m wheelbase. Ground clearance is at 151mm.
      Both variants are powered by the same battery and motor which delivers 45 Hp and 125 Nm. It has a claimed range of 305 kms in city and 230 kms combined as per WLTP cycle. It does a 0-100 kmph in 19.1 seconds and as a top speed of 125 kmph. Charging via an AC charger is achieved in 4 hours while via a DC fast charger the EV can be charged from 30 to 80 percent in 30 minutes. More

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      Hyundai Venue Electric SUV Launch Likely – Tata Nexon EV Rival

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      Hyundai Venue Electric SUV Render by Moto ShowHyundai plans to launch 6 new electric cars in India – Some of them will be based on their global platform while some will be based on their existing petrol / diesel cars
      Hyundai Motor India plans for a new electrification journey. This announcement comes at a time when Maruti Suzuki states that it will launch an electric vehicle in India only once its notes sufficient customer demand by 2025. Tata Motors, a leader in the electric vehicle segment, has plans to introduce 10 new electric vehicles over the coming 3 to 4 years.
      Even as Hyundai India’s electric offering currently only includes the Kona Electric SUV in India, things are about to change. As Hyundai expects a 53 percent surge in EV sales by 2028, the company has revealed its plans to embark on an extensive electrification journey. The project will include a total of 6 Battery Electric Vehicles (BEV’s) which will span different segments and body styles including sedans and SUVs.
      E-GMP (Electric Global Modular) platform
      Hyundai’s upcoming electric vehicles covering both mass and premium segments, will be positioned on modified platforms and a dedicated E-GMP (Electric Global Modular) platform in India. The E-GMP platform, that spawns the iONIQ 5, will consist of a vehicle chassis that includes battery, motor and power electric system. It will receive scalable dimensions allowing for different body types while the vehicles will boast of a flat floor, sleek cockpit and spacious cabin.
      The platform has been developed on 4 pillars of Modularity, Reliability, Usability and Performance. Modularity means that this single platform will span different body types. It will be reliable to offer a lower center of gravity with Ultra High Strength Steel and 8 point battery mounting facilities while the flat floor and adjustable seating layout will ensure better interior space with sliding 2nd row seats.
      Hyundai India Electric Car Launch Plans 2028 – Rs 4k Cr Investment
      Where performance is concerned, there will be battery ratings upto 77.4 kWh and two wheel and four wheel drive capabilities along with improved handling and the capacity to reach a top speed of 260 km/h. Hyundai Motor India, Managing Director SS Kim states that high-speed electrification of the automotive sector has become a reality, with the share of EVs rising to as high as a fifth of the total in several markets.
      Made In India Electric Cars
      Apart from the premium E-GMP based electric cars, Hyundai also has plans to launch electric cars based on their existing lineup of ICE (petrol / diesel) vehicles. Though Hyundai has not revealed which of their existing cars will be launched as an electric car, they did say that SUVs will be a focus area.
      It will not be surprising if they start their ICE to EV journey from the likes of Venue or even the Creta. Tata Nexon EV is the highest selling electric car in the PV segment today. Hyundai Venue electric SUV will be a direct rival to the Nexon EV upon launch. They could also launch an entry level electric car based on i10 NIOS, which may become their most affordable EV in India.
      Charging Network
      Even as the electric vehicle segment in India is still in its nascent state, this is about to change. Hyundai’s electrification plan will see an investment to the tune of Rs 4,000 crores in India. This will be used for R&D of the upcoming EVs as well as developing supporting infrastructure.
      A recent study reveals that EV sales in the country could increase at a compounded annual growth rate of 53 percent to 1.75 lakh units by 2028 from 6,000 units in 2020. There are over 79,000 fast chargers being set up by various companies by 2025, up from 2,900 in 2021, which will dispel owner’s anxieties and see more electric vehicles on the road. More

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      Tesla Electric Car Supercharger Spied – Arrives In India Ahead Of Launch

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      Rendered image. Credit – Backstage With MillionairesTesla is currently testing Model 3 and Model Y in India, the former is expected to launch sometime next year
      The entry of Tesla into the Indian market is a highly discussed topic in the automotive industry. There have been lots of ifs and buts regarding Tesla’s future in India even after the company officially registered its local entity in the country as Tesla India Motors And Energy Private Limited earlier this year.
      In the latest development, the American EV brand has completed homologation and four of its electric car models in India. In addition, the Tesla Supercharger unit has now been spotted in India, image of which has been shared on Twitter by Tesla Club India.
      Tesla in India
      The approval document certified that Tesla’s electric cars are roadworthy in the country. Although names of models homologated have not been revealed yet, the Twitter handle thinks that the four car models registered are variants of Model 3 and Model Y. Both these cars have been spotted testing on Indian roads on multiple occasions in recent months.
      However, we believe that Tesla might have homologated all four products in its global lineup, the other two being Model S and Model X. Confirmation on this is expected from Tesla in the coming time. The American EV manufacturer has brought its CCS2 Supercharger Units to India which are awaiting installation at the moment.
      Tesla Supercharger In India
      Challenges Ahead
      From the image, they appear to be V2 150kW Superchargers. Again, no confirmation could be sought at the moment. All said, gaining a foothold in the Indian car market won’t be easy considering electric vehicles still account for only 1 percent of the country’s annual car sales.
      Sparse charging infrastructure is the key reason for this slow market although governments at both central and state levels along with various auto OEMs have been pushing for charging stations across countries. India’s tax regime is another speed breaker that discourages premium car brands from launching their EVs in India.
      Reduction in Taxes
      Earlier this year, Tesla CEO, Elon Musk tweeted that import duties in India are among the highest in the world and the nation treats clean energy vehicles the same as IC engine-powered cars, which isn’t consistent with its climate goals. Tesla has openly come out and sought additional subsidies from the Central government in India for its upcoming electric cars in India which will most likely be offered as Completely Built Units (CBUs) initially.
      However, this has resulted in mixed reactions across the country. Recently, Union Minister of Road Transport and Highways Nitin Gadkari, at the India Today Conclave 2021, claimed that upon its launch in India, the Tesla car will cost Rs 35 lakh. While this wasn’t a formal announcement, it seems that the Government of India has had some discussions with the American EV manufacturer regarding this issue. More