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    Hero MotoCorp Electric Motorcycle Takes Shape Via US Based Zero EV

    Hero MotoCorp announces collab with California (USA) based electric motorcycle and powertrain manufacturer, Zero MotorcyclesZero Electric MotorcyclesHero MotoCorp is finalizing a collaboration agreement with Zero Motorcycles. The latter, a California (USA)-based manufacturer works with premium electric motorcycles, and powertrains. Hero will be investing in the US based company.India boasts of a larger than life two-wheeler industry. It’s not difficult to see how much more nuanced 2W penetration is as compared to private car purchases. Keeping this in mind, and the commitment made to improve the presence of electric vehicles by the end of the decade, it’s no surprise that the electric two-wheeler industry is a key focus area.Electric 2W industry growthWhile Electric vehicle market growth goals will be continually monitored and revised, one thing is for certain. Current business activity portends to growth in the short term. And considering just how young the e2W market is, no doubt multiple players are coveting market leadership positions. And herein lies great market potential.Electric two wheeler sales volumes are increasing but they contribute to a small percentage of total two wheeler sales. And the market is dominated by motorcycles across segments. And, growth in the e2W industry right now finds focus limited to electric scooters. In fact, the number of e-motorcycles available are rather few.Zero Electric MotorcycleCo-developing electric motorcyclesMajor disruptions are being attributed to new names in manufacturing, and one is yet to find a traditional two-wheeler manufacturer take the lead. So, with Hero MotoCorp announcing its entry, it’s an exciting time for the electric two wheeler space. Hero maintains leadership in the two-wheeler industry, and one expects big things from the manufacturer in the electric market.Zero Electric MotorcycleHero MotoCorp’s collaboration with Zero Motorcycles will focus on co-developing electric motorcycles. The company’s board approved an equity investment up to US$60 million in Zero Motorcycles. Hero MotoCorp is looking at organic and inorganic /collaboration initiatives in the electric vehicle market. For now, the manufacturer is geared up for its first electric 2W launch under its emerging mobility brand Vida. Product details will be available on October 7, 2022.Hero MotoCorp collaboration initiativesConsidering the number of new age manufacturers in the foray, it’s no surprise that smaller players are perfectly fine with associating with bigger names. The age of start-ups ensures business owners selling rather quickly after establishing a business. Where older manufacturers are concerned, collaborations have ensured efficiency on economies of scale.And with Hero MotoCorp being an established player, it could create ripples in the e2W industry through investments in multiple companies that align with its EV goals. This includes GoGoro, and Ather Energy. More

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    Tata Tiago Electric Launch Price Rs 8.49 L – Range Up To 315 Kms

    Both Tiago Electric and Tigor Electric were showcased at 2018 Auto Expo, but Tiago EV was put on the backburner due to prevailing market dynamicsTata Tiago Electric LaunchedWhile quite a few electric cars are expected to be launched in near future, OEMs don’t seem to be particularly interested in targeting the entry-level EV space. There were expectations earlier with Maruti that was working on electric version of WagonR. However, that plan has been shelved. Homegrown carmaker Mahindra has also made it clear that it will focus on electric SUVs and not target the budget segment.Sensing an opportunity that also comes with considerable risks, Tata Motors has launched an electric version of Tiago hatchback today. Tiago EV has been launched a starting price of Rs 8.49 lakh and goes all the way to Rs 11.79 lakh. These are ex-sh, introductory prices which are valid for first 10,000 buyers. Booking start on 10th October, 2022. Deliveries start from Jan 2023.Tata Tiago Electric LaunchedTata Tiago Electric PricesA total of 7 trim options and two battery packs are on offer with new Tiago EV. These are XE, XT with 19.2 kWh battery pack. This offers an estimated range of 250 kms on full charge. Both these variants come with 3.3 kW AC charging option. Prices of these are Rs 8.49 lakh and Rs 9.09 lakh, ex-sh.Remaining 5 versions are on offer with 24 kWh battery pack which offer claimed range of 315 kms. These are XT, XZ+, XZ+ Tech Lux with 3.3 kW AC charger, and XZ+ and XZ+ Tech Lux with 7.2 kW AC charger. Prices of these versions range from Rs 9.99 lakh to Rs 11.79 lakh, ex-sh.Tata Tiago EV PricesTiago EV will borrow much of its internals from Tigor EV. Some adjustments may be needed in accommodating the battery pack, as Tiago is around 200 mm shorter than Tigor EV. As compared to Nexon EV that utilizes a one-piece battery pack, Tigor EV has a split battery setup. One unit is placed under the rear seat, whereas the second unit is positioned in the boot.Tata Tiago EVTiago EV is offered in a choice of two battery packs. These are 19.2 kWh and 24 kWh. The former claims to deliver an estimated range of 250 kms while the latter claims 315 kms on full charge.Tiago EV can perform in varying conditions and environments, as it has dedicated liquid cooling system and IP67 rated motor and battery pack. Users can choose Drive or Sports mode, as per requirement. Tiago EV has gradeability of 29% and it can accelerate from 0-60 kmph in 5.7 seconds.Tata Tiago EV LaunchedTiago EV range and featuresIt is loaded with tech. Tiago EV gets features such as smart regenerative braking, hill ascent assist and hill descent assist. Warranty for battery pack and motor is 8 years/1.60 lakh km (whichever is earlier), which is the same as offered with Tigor EV. The battery pack has been tested for nail penetration, crush test, overcharge protection, shock protection and short circuit protection.Tiago EV vs Rival ICE cars – Maruti Swift (MSS), Maruti Baleno (MSB), Hyundai i20 (Hi2), Maruti Brezza (MSB)On the safety front, Tiago has received 4-star safety rating in Global NCAP crash tests. This will be applicable for Tiago EV as well. Key safety features will include corner stability control and ABS with EBD. If new safety rules are enforced, Tiago EV could get 6-airbags as standard. With no rivals in entry-level electric car segment, Tata Motors can get the first mover advantage with Tiago EV. More

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    Nissan Leaf Electric Launch Planned For 18th Oct ?

    With 4W EV segment growing by the day, Nissan is looking at launching its acclaimed Leaf EV in IndiaNissan Leaf EVNissan Motor India has been doing reasonably well. Once on the brink of shutdown, is now stabilised by strategic launch of Magnite. Industry experts hail Magnite as the vehicle that saved Nissan’s existence in India. That same powertrain and platform combo was utilised by Renault to launch Kiger. Right now, Nissan only has Magnite as its top seller as the aging Kicks is pretty much at the end of its life cycle.Nissan also used to manufacture and sell Datsun products. But that didn’t work out well and Nissan pulled the plug on Datsun brand in 2022. But Nissan is in the news recently due to new development. This new development is in the form of a Save The Date invite for an event held in Delhi on 18th of October.Nissan Leaf Launch ?Not much has been revealed by the invite, except for the date and time. The boldest part of the invite, are two words – Move Beyond. This is a slogan Nissan has been using to market their new age cars, especially their electric vehicles.Speaking of new cars, Nissan has not been spied testing much these days. The only new Nissan car that has been doing test rounds recently, is the Leaf electric car. It is very likely that the event on 18th October in New Delhi will see the debut of Leaf in India.Nissan Leaf Electric India Launch On 18th Oct?We spotted a Nissan Leaf under testing here in India in April of this year. It was a red-coloured unit spotted in Delhi. However, Nissan Leaf test mules have been spotted in 2019 too. Nissan was toying with the idea of launching its Leaf here in India. But that has not happened yet. Speaking about the car itself, Leaf EV has a good reputation worldwide. With Leaf EV, Nissan has been among the early adopters in EV tech, unlike Toyota which is foraying into EVs recently.Specs & FeaturesLeaf will get an EM57 electric motor that draws its juice from a 40 kWh Li-ion battery pack. Nissan Leaf is capable of 146 bhp of power and 320 Nm of peak torque. It claims an estimated range of 240km on a single charge as per NEDC test cycles. Globally, Nissan offers two types of AC chargers with Leaf- a 3kW unit and a 6kW unit. The former takes 16 hours for the battery to replenish while the latter takes 8 hours.Nissan Leaf could be brought into the country via CBU route. Hence, Leaf is expected to be very well-kitted. Apart from the usual features like sunroof, touchscreen and all, Nissan Leaf is likely to pack cutting-edge tech like ProPilot (a single-lane autonomous driving) along with semi-autonomous driving systems. Nissan Leaf will offer an e-Pedal mode for one-pedal driving. A host of Advanced Driver Assistance System (ADAS) safety features like lane departure warning, blind-spot warning and emergency braking system, among many, are also likely to be in the kit.Competition could be from Nexon EV Max, which offers a 40 kWh battery and single motor configuration with similar power, torque and range figures. We also have MG ZS EV and Hyundai Kona which are an upgrade over Nexon EV Max. BYD is also getting ready to launch their Atto 3 electric SUV. More

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    New MG Micro Electric SUV Concept – Jimny, Bronco Inspired?

    Based on Baojun Kiwi EV powertrain, this new Micro electric SUV is likely to get dual motors with 100+ bhp of power and 4WDNew MG Micro Electric SUV ConceptBaojun, as an automotive manufacturer, comes under the umbrella of SAIC-GM-Wuling. SAIC Motor owns the rights for the MG brand and MG Motor India is a subsidiary of this company. Most cars that MG Motor sells in India are produced by SAIC-GM-Wuling. When we saw Wuling Air EV undergoing testing in India recently, it will be launched under MG brand.For example, the Hector that we have in India, is actually a Baojun 530. When Baojun or Wuling showcases a new product on home turf, there is a good chance of that coming to India under MG brand. Not every product will make its way. You get the point. What caught our eye recently is Baojun Micro electric SUV concept that is likely to be finalized for China in the coming years.Looking at it, we couldn’t help but wonder if it would make it to India. We already know that MG is toying around with the idea of launching small electric vehicles in India. They have plans to launch a small electric car under Rs 10 lakh next year.MG Micro Electric SUVThese small EVs are popular in China too. For example, Wuling Hongguang Mini EV, which we recently covered, is currently China’s highest-selling vehicle. It is offered in a convertible avatar too and is a cute little vehicle fit for China’s congestion. We hope MG considers this as an option for India.New MG Micro Electric SUV ConceptMG Micro electric SUV is currently in concept phase. In terms of looks, we can spot multiple vehicles in it at once. It has hints of Ford Bronco, Suzuki Jimny and even Toyota FJ Cruiser for that matter. When seen as a whole, it does appear quite nice with its contrasting roof and cute but butch appearance. The LED DRLs, front towing hooks, and alloy wheels make it appear very stylish.Even though it is set to be under 3m in length, MG Micro electric SUV gets a lot of muscle to flex. And flex, it does. It gets roof rails, bulging wheel arches and muscular fenders, hooks in bumpers, a tall face and a lot more. The grille design is imposing and FJ Cruiser inspired contrasting roof is a particular highlight.EV PlatformComing to what powers this cute electric SUV, details are not known. But speculations revolve around Baojun Kiwi city EV’s powertrain. Baojun Kiwi EV is also known as Baojun E300 and is related to Wuling Hongguang Mini EV and Wuling Air EV. Now you understand why this small SUV that is still in concept phase, is so interesting, don’t you?Baojun Kiwi EV is powered by a 54 bhp motor and is only offered in rear motor and rear wheel drive configuration. For this SUV, dual motors with 100+ bhp of power and 4WD are also likely. Coming to its battery, a 39 kWh pack is offered on Kiwi EV. The same is likely to be offered with MG Micro electric SUV as well. A production version of this concept is likely to break cover soon. More

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    Upcoming Mahindra XUV700 Electric SUV Spied In Bangalore

    Off all the INGLO platform based vehicles, Mahindra XUV.e8 is the one that will launch firstMahindra XUV700 Electric SpiedMahindra is set to roll the dice and step into the EV game hard. But it is also targeting global markets. Hence, Mahindra has shied away from budget offerings and has gone full regalia with premium products based on INGLO platform. That said, Mahindra unveiled XUV400 electric earlier this month and will be the company’s cheapest offering.Speaking of INGLO platform based products, Mahindra has showcased five different concepts falling under two different lineups. They are XUV.e series and BE series. XUV.e series are based on XUV branded ICE SUVs. But not BE. As the name implies, they are Born Electric from the ground up and won’t get ICE versions based on them. Off the lot, XUV.e8 will be the first to roll out as it is based on ICE-powered XUV700. Mahindra has also started testing XUV.e8 in India. Let’s take a look.Mahindra XUV700 Electric SpiedXUV.e8 will be the first to launch. At that same August 15 event, Mahindra had displayed a working prototype of the same. Looking at the XUV700 Electric spied testing in India, it is completely camouflaged and is exactly identical to the XUV700 that we currently have. Even its wheels are identical.XUV.e8 prototype has the same profile as XUV700. But, the front and rear were different. When compared to XUV700’s alloy wheels, XUV.e8 prototype that was showcased in Britain, got futuristic aero wheels. This is to reduce aerodynamic drag and help reduce its air drag coefficient. Hence, maximising range. Hat tip to Manju MN for sharing exclusive spy shots on Rushlane Spylane Facebook Group.Mahindra XUV700 Electric SpiedManju even got a chance to have a chat with the team that were testing the XUV700 Electric. It was spotted in Ecospace, Bangalore. They had come to test the SUV in waterlogged streets. Launch is not scheduled for this year.The prototype showcased in the UK, was wrapped in a matte black wrap with copper-coloured textures all around. This copper colour is to Mahindra, what Electric Blue is to Tata. A signification of EVs. All Mahindra EVs will carry copper accents. Front gets a massive LED DRL which looks striking, to say the least. Headlights are sleeker than XUV700 and have copper elements. Even its Twin Peaks logo gets a copper finish surrounded by purple LED.Specs & FeaturesMahindra’s INGLO platform, which is sourced from Volkswagen’s MEB platform, is scalable from 60 kWh to 80 kWh. XUV.e8 might get either an RWD layout with 228 bhp or an AWD layout with 335 bhp. When it comes to interiors, Mahindra has outdone itself. XUV700 has two horizontal screens, whereas XUV.e8 gets three. One is for the driver’s display, one is for the central infotainment system and the third screen seems to be for the front passenger.Mahindra XUV700 Electric SpiedIt is set to launch around 2024. When launched, it will be slotted above MG ZS EV and below Volvo XC40 Recharge, Kia EV6 and the likes. MG ZS EV gets around 50 kWh worth of juice. While EV6 and XC40 Recharge get around 80 kWh worth of juice. With 60 kWh, XUV.e8 seems to be a logical EV for this segment.  More

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    2023 Tata Altroz Spied Testing With Camo – Electric Or Facelift?

    Tata Altroz is the safest premium hatchback in the country followed by Jazz, i20 and Baleno2023 Tata Altroz Spied Testing – Single Tone AlloysTata Motors was shooting for gold when it launched Altroz in India. Hence they call it the gold standard in premium hatchback segment. Altroz makes a very compelling case if you ask us. It has one of a kind, 90-degree opening doors, it has all the features and creature comforts one can expect from this segment.It even looks good too and to top it all off, it scores 5-stars in Global NCAP crash test which is pretty much unrivalled in the segment. Tata even took a dig at i20 and Baleno calling them tricks while it is the real treat. But last time we checked, Baleno is currently the highest-selling car of any segment in India. i20 makes it to top 10 hatchbacks list.Tata needs to do something to spruce up this segment. In that regard, we recently received new spy shots of 2023 Altroz currently being tested on road. But what can it be? Altroz CNG, Altroz EV or Altroz Facelift? Let’s take a closer look.2023 Tata Altroz SpiedHat tip to automotive enthusiast Rajeesh Kumar for sharing these exclusive spy shots on Rushlane Spylane. It is likely to be a model year 2023 Altroz and is fully camouflaged. Altroz CNG is being under testing since 2021 and just last month, we even spied an Altroz CNG with emission testing equipment. But this new test mule isn’t equipped with emission testing gear.2023 Tata Altroz Spied Testing – Rear ProfileSo, what is it then? It could be a facelift of the current Altroz. We say this because Altroz has been on sale since January 2020. Which is 2.5 years ago and has not gotten a single update since launch. It got a Dark Edition option and that’s it. But, i20 and especially Baleno trailing way ahead of Altroz. Hence, Tata is likely to launch a facelift to re-establish interests around its gold standard and drive sales further.Coming to the test mule in question, it seems to be the top-trim as it gets rear defogger and rear washer with wiper. The wiper is somehow not present. But it is a top-spec trim. One notable change that we could spot in an instance is that this test mule gets single-tone alloy wheels. While outgoing model gets dual-tone alloys.Upcoming Altroz EV?Coming to the last set of predictions, it also has a very high chance of being the production version of Altroz EV. We say this because test mule has a cutout for exhaust tip to jut out. But an exhaust is not visible from the camera’s angle. Altroz EV was first showcased at 2020 Auto Expo.2023 Tata Altroz Spied Testing – EV?This test mule might be an EV as Tata Motors is expanding its EV portfolio vigorously with the recent announcement of Tiago EV. 2023 Altroz EV was supposed to get the same battery pack as Nexon EV Prime and around 350 to 400 km of claimed range. Right now, Altroz gets a 1.2L petrol engine option and a 1.5L diesel engine option and competes with Honda Jazz, Hyundai i20, Maruti Baleno, and the likes. More info will revolve soon. More

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    New BYD Atto 3 Electric SUV Spied Undisguised Ahead Of Launch

    Based on BYD’s advanced E platform that’s engineered to challenge the likes of Tesla, Atto 3 is expected to have better drive dynamics than rivalsNew BYD Atto 3 Electric SUV SpiedAfter launching e6 electric MPV in India, Chinese automaker BYD (Build Your Dreams) is looking to aggressively target the electric SUV segment. BYD’s first offering in this space will be Atto 3, which is scheduled for launch on October 11. The Warren Buffett-backed EV maker will initially target big cities and has already opened showrooms in Delhi and Mumbai.BYD Atto 3 will be initially imported into India as SKD (semi-knocked down) units. The SUV will be assembled at the company’s facility in Sriperumbudur near Chennai. Based on demand, BYD can think about producing Atto 3 locally at a later date. As it will be taking the SKD route that attracts taxes, Atto 3 will have premium pricing of around Rs 30 lakh to Rs 35 lakh. Deliveries are expected to commence early next year.New BYD Atto 3 Electric SUV SpiedAhead of launch next month, the new BYD SUV has been spied undisguised near Chennai. Hat tip to automotive enthusiast Ponsam Charles for sharing these exclusive images with Rushlane Spylane.Atto 3 electric SUV will primarily rival the likes of MG ZS EV and Hyundai Kona Electric. It may be pricier than rivals, but packs a punch in terms of segment-first features. For example, Atto 3 has ADAS features such as blind spot monitoring, autonomous emergency braking, lane keep assist and departure warning, front and rear collision warning, rear cross traffic alert and rear cross traffic brake.New BYD Atto 3 Electric SUV SpiedOther highlights include a large 12.8 inch touchscreen infotainment system with adjustable rotation, which is again a segment-first feature. Atto 3 electric SUV has panoramic sunroof, USB type-C charging, wireless charging, 5-inch digital instrument panel and Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. A range of connected car features are offered via BYD DiLink Intelligent Connection System.In comparison to its rivals in India, Atto 3 is expected to be roomier on the inside. It’s around 4.5 meter long, as compared to 4,323 mm of MG ZS EV and 4,180 mm of Kona Electric. Just for perspective, recently unveiled Mahindra XUV400 is 4.2 meter in length. Atto 3 has a sporty exterior body profile, which should help enhance its prospects in India.As available in international markets, BYD Atto 3 has a range of 480 km when powered by a 60.48kWh battery pack. Another variant with 49.92kWh battery pack is also offered, which has a range of 320 km. When an 80 kWh DC charger is used, Atto 3 can achieve a full charge in just 45 minutes. The electric motor used onboard the SUV delivers 204 PS and 310 Nm. It can reach 0 to 100 kmph in 7.3 seconds.BYD Mumbai showroom launchedAfter Okhla showroom in Delhi, BYD has opened its first showroom in Mumbai. It is apparent that the country’s financial capital will be a key market for BYD’s pure electric vehicles. It’s also because there’s greater acceptance for EVs in Mumbai region.BYD’s outlets will be managed by Landmark Cars, which also operates outlets of other brands such as Jeep, Volkswagen and Mercedes-Benz. BYD Mumbai outlet is spread across an area of 2000 sq. ft., equipped with display floor, customer lounge and charging stations. More

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    Upcoming BYD Electric SUV Brochure Leaks – 480 Kms Range, ADAS

    BYD Atto 3 will be offered with two different battery sizes that vary in the total range offeredBYD Atto 3 Electric SUVWe have seen BYD e6 on sale here in India for quite some time now. At first, it was only offered as a CV that caters to premium electric taxi segment. But now, it is also available for the PV segment. To expand its portfolio further, the Chinese brand is set to launch Atto 3 electric SUV. BYD (Build Your Dreams) also teased us regarding the same. With the launch later this month, we now have a leaked brochure that reveals most of the info regarding this upcoming electric SUV.BYD Atto 3 BrochureSince India has a less tapped EV potential, BYD is launching an electric SUV. Right now, 4W EV segment is dominated by Tata Motors. In terms of size, Atto 3 sits above Nexon EV Max, XUV400 and ZS EV. It measures 4,455mm in length, 1,875mm in width, 1,615mm in height and has a 2,720mm wheelbase. Wheel track varies with different powertrain options.It gets 175mm of ground clearance and a minimum luggage capacity of 440L, which can be expanded to 1,340. In terms of size, it is slightly larger than compact SUVs like Creta, and Grand Vitara and MPVs like Ertiga. However, what it packs in its platform is what counts. Atto 3 gets rear disc brakes and 18” alloy wheels clad with 215/55-R18 rubber.In terms of powertrain, BYD is offering a choice between a 49.92 kWh battery pack and a 60.48 kWh battery pack. No matter the battery choice, it is powered by a single permanent magnet synchronous motor at the front axle and makes 201 bhp (150 kW) of maximum power and 310 Nm of maximum torque. Atto 3 can sprint from 0 to 100 km/h from a standstill in just 7.3 seconds.BYD Atto 3 leaked Brochure – Courtesy TeamBHPWhen it comes to range, a 49.92 kWh battery promises an NEDC-certified 410 km range, while a larger 60.48 kWh battery promises 480 km. But WLTP certified range is 345 km for 49.92 kWh pack and 420 km for 60.48 kWh pack. Atto 3 gets Blade Battery which is likely to be manufactured by BYD’s subsidiary Fudi Industrial. With a smaller battery, kerb weight is 1,680 kg while models with a larger battery pack weigh 1,750 kg.Features & LaunchBYD Atto 3 features a CC2 charging socket that supports up to 70 kW of DC charging for a smaller battery pack and 80 kW for larger battery pack. In terms of safety, Atto 3 will get 7 airbags, TPMS, ABS, EBD, ESP, TCS, hill descent control, a 360-degree camera, and an electronic parking brake. ADAS features are also included that enables front and rear collision warning, autonomous braking, high-beam assist, adaptive cruise control, and lane keep assist among others.Other features include a panoramic sunroof, electric tailgate, heated ORVMs, LED lighting all around, ambient lighting, wireless phone charger, a portable card key, PM2.5 air filter, and a 12.8” screen with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. This touchscreen is rotatable, enabling portrait and landscape orientation. Clever!With all these gizmos, pricing is likely to be above MG ZS EV which gets around 50 kWh worth of battery. A price of Rs. 30 to 35 lakh seems to be the logical bracket for Atto 3. At this price, it offers a unique proposition of a feature-loaded electric SUV with a large battery pack. BYD is likely to launch this around Diwali.Source More