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    Ather Launches 3 Electric Scooters – Price Rs 1.3 L To Rs 1.68 L

    New Ather electric scootersAther Energy’s portfolio now includes three electric scooters instead of twoAs promised in Ather’s recent teaser, the company now has three electric vehicles in its portfolio. One is them is the newly launched Ather 450S with a 2.9 kWh battery. The other two scooters are 450X with a new 2.9 kWh battery and existing 3.7 kWh battery.Ather 450S costs Rs. 1,29,999 (ex-sh) and features India’s first DeepView Display. Other changes include brand new switchgear, FallSafe feature, ESS (Emergency Stop Signal) and coasting regeneration. The last feature increases the scooter’s range by up to 7%, depending on riding mode.New Ather electric scooters prices – Pro pack that unlocks a host of features will be priced at INR. 14,000 for the 450S, INR. 16,000 for the 450X with 2.9 kWh battery and INR. 23,000 for the 450 with 3.7 kWh battery.Ather Launched Three Electric Scooters In IndiaExisting 450X gets most of these features as well, including the option of a smaller battery. The company is offering Pro Pack with all of its models. It costs Rs. 14,000 for 450S, Rs. 16,000 for 450X 2.9 kWh model and Rs. 23,000 for 3.7 kWh model. Pro Pack enables Ride Assist, Ather battery protect, AtherStack updates, and Ather Connect (free for 3Y).Main highlight of this update is the launch of 450S, which only gets a smaller 2.9 kWh battery and offers up to 115 km of range, 0-60 km/h acceleration in 3.9 seconds and a top speed of 90 km/h. More expensive 450X gets a 115 km range with a 2.9 kWh model and a 145 km range with a larger 3.7 kWh battery model. Deliveries for new and updated scooters will happen in a phased manner. 450X with 2.9 kWh battery deliveries will commence 3rd week of August, new 450S by last week of August and lastly, 450X 3.7 kWh battery in October.New Ather electric scooters450S features a DeepView display with a 1000:1 contrast ratio, auto-brightness, and superior readability utmost times. It supports on-board navigation too with 18+ directional possibilities. In this sense, users can navigate effectively even in a complicated 8-way roundabout. New switchgear provides a unique interactive experience. Both 450S and 450X range now feature this new switchgear with new switch additions including one-click reverse and a joystick. Even though 450X gets a touchscreen, the new switchgear will ensure seamless interaction with its dashboard. FallSafe feature can account for scooter’s speed, orientation, and acceleration when the rider is about to fall.New Ather electric scootersFallSafe switches off the motor to prevent further skidding and even turns on indicators to notify other road users. ‘Emergency Stop Signal’ (ESS) helps in panic-braking situations by turning both indicators at both ends. Ather’s new coasting regen feature seems to be with 450S only and enables a 7% higher range with effective energy recuperation.Added features add functionalityInstalling Ather app on phone will now enable Inbox to Scooter feature, showing destination addresses from popular messaging apps like Whatsapp, Telegram and Instagram DM. Ather currently has 1400+ charging stations across India and the updated Trip Planner suggests trips more optimally now. Physical changes include new rear mud flaps as well.New Ather electric scootersCEO’s wordsTarun Mehta, Co-Founder & CEO, Ather Energy, said, “With the launch of our refreshed portfolio today, we now have three products on the 450 platform in different price segments. This allows us to reach out to a much wider set of buyers. Our latest entry level variant – the 450S breaks new ground in the 125cc performance scooter segment by offering a first-of-its-kind DeepViewTM Display dashboard and a host of never seen before innovative features.The 450S significantly raises the bar in terms of riding pleasure and safety while still delivering on performance. The 450S will appeal to all those who want to enter the electric segment but are seeking the quality and assurance that Ather scooters provide at an accessible price point. Along with the 450S we are also introducing the 450X in 3kWh and 4kWh capacity providing more options to our customers to choose from our best selling scooter platform.” More

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    Honda X-Blade Discontinued – Replaced By New SP160

    Honda X-Blade DiscontinuedIt is probable that factors like low sales and launch of new SP160 could have prompted the discontinuation of Honda X-BladeIt is a standard process for OEMs to update their portfolio based on market dynamics and evolving consumer preferences. Honda recently launched all-new SP160 in the price range of Rs 1.17 lakh to Rs 1.22 lakh. Honda has now made another change by removing X-Blade from its website.It is likely that X-Blade has been discontinued for good. Inability to generate desired sales numbers could be one of the reasons for such a move. In 160cc motorcycle segment, much of Honda’s sales are contributed by Unicorn. It will be interesting to see if newly launched SP160 can deliver similar results.Focus on SP160It is possible that Honda may have removed X-Blade from its website on a temporary basis. As may be recalled, Honda has been working to upgrade its portfolio to comply with the stricter OBD2 emission norms and E20 ethanol-mix fuel. In June, Honda launched updated versions of Shine 125 and Unicorn. Based on market feedback, it is possible that Honda may bring back X-Blade at a later date.As of now, it appears that Honda wants to clear the road for all-new SP160. In that context, discontinuation of X-Blade seems relevant. But there is no official word from the company or whether X-Blade will make a comeback. With X-Blade removed from Honda’s website, users now have the option to choose either Unicorn or SP160. While Unicorn is popular, the idea of trying something new may attract customers towards SP160. While Unicorn has a well-rounded profile, SP160 is relatively a lot more flamboyant.New Honda SP160X-Blade too had a sporty profile, just as good as other popular bikes like Pulsar and Apache. Some of the key features included robo-face LED headlamp with powerful illumination, sculpted fuel tank, sharp body panelling, sporty graphics, upswept exhaust, sleek grab rails and edgy tail lamp.Colour options included Sports Red, Strontium Silver Metallic, Matte Marvel Blue Metallic and Matte Steel Black Metallic. The bike had features such as full digital instrument console, side stand engine cut-off, engine stop switch, ABS and hazard switch.X-Blade had the same 160cc platformWith the stricter BS6 Phase 2 emission norms, Honda’s 162.71cc engine has slightly reduced power and torque output. When last available, X-Blade numbers were at 13.86 PS of max power and 14.7 Nm of peak torque. With the OBD2 compliance, the engine now produces 13.46 PS and 14.58 Nm. Both Unicorn and new SP160 share the same numbers.After SP160 gains traction and desired fan following, Honda could think about bringing back X-Blade with OBD-2 compliance. SP160 seems to have potential and deserves all the support it can get. Especially when the festive season is just around the corner. In terms of emission compliance, there have been various instances where products were removed and later reintroduced in updated form. It remains to be seen what exactly Honda is planning for X-Blade. More

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    Hero Karizma XMR 210 Switchgear – Digital Instrument Screen Spied

    Hero Karizma XMR 210 SwitchgearHero Karizma’s latest spy shots reveal D-pad like buttons on left switchgear, that could control the larger instrument screenAfter conquering the budget commuter segment with Splendor, Passion, HF and Glamour range of motorcycles, Hero seems to be eying the premium segment. We’re talking about the company’s portfolio 160cc and above, which has seen lower sales.Now, Hero intends to change that with a combination of new launches. We saw Xpulse 200T 4V, Xtreme 160R 4V, Xtreme 200S 4V, 2023 version of Xpulse 200 Pro and regular models as well. At the flagship end, we will see the Karizma XMR 210 fully-faired motorcycle. New info regarding this bike has surfaced. Let’s take a look.2023 Hero Karizma ZMRHero Karizma XMR 210 Switchgear & Instrument ScreenThe company’s quest to improve quality is evident with the recent updates. These include better switchgear than before, more thoughtful quality-of-life features and ironed-out smaller niggles. For example, 2023 Xpulse 200 4V featured ABS modes and better quality switchgear, while the instrument screen unit was identical to the preceding model. Karizma XMR 210 will feature a brand new instrument screen, which is a lot taller than before, yielding much greater screen real estate.The new spy shots show a larger screen, which could be squarish in its appearance. Bigger size screen would ensure logical assignment of various information. Being a flagship, it is likely to get Bluetooth connectivity along with turn-by-turn navigation and notification alerts.New Hero Karizma DetailsIf it is a TFT screen, we could have real-time map data on the screen, instead of just basic turn suggestions. In the spy shots, we can see clip-on handlebars, fairing-mounted ORVMs, a decent windscreen, sleek LED turn indicators and brand-new switchgear.Are these D-pad buttons to control a TFT screen?Speaking of switchgear, the right module has a hazard light function and starter switch. But the left module shows a D-pad-like button that could potentially control various functions of the new instrument console. If these really are D-pad buttons, then the possibility of the new screen being a more advanced one increases considerably.Apart from that, Karizma XMR 210 will miss out on USD telescopic front forks, gets single petal disc setup at either end, LED lighting all around, sporty seating and ergonomics, a handsome fairing, alloy wheels and more. The engine gets liquid cooling and could feature 4 valves per cylinder too. SOHC setup is more likely than slightly complicated and heavy DOHC.Power figures could be near 25 bhp and 25 Nm. A 6-speed gearbox is likely as well. The new motorcycle will take on the likes of Bajaj Pulsar RS200, Suzuki Gixxer SF 250 and others. New Karizma Launch is scheduled for 29th Aug 2023.Source More

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    2W Retail sales July 2023 – Hero, Bajaj, Yamaha, Jawa, Yezdi, Ampere

    New Bajaj Pulsar N 160Two-Wheeler Retail Sales released by FADA: July 2023 AnalysisThe Indian two-wheeler market witnessed a mixed bag of performance in the month of July 2023, with some manufacturers experiencing growth while others faced challenges. According to the latest data on two-wheeler retail sales, several prominent trends emerged in terms of sales volume, market share, and year-on-year growth.Hero Maintains Leadership Despite Minor DeclineHero MotoCorp, the largest two-wheeler manufacturer in India, retained its position at the top of the sales chart. However, the company reported a marginal decline of 0.10% in retail sales compared to the previous year, totaling 3,61,664 units in July 2023. This slight dip could be attributed to various factors, including supply chain disruptions and competition from newer players.Two wheeler retail sales July 2023Honda’s Steady Growth ContinuesHonda Motorcycle and Scooter India (HMSI) showcased a resilient performance in July 2023, registering a growth of 9.45% in retail sales as compared to the same period last year. The company sold 2,73,260 units, demonstrating the brand’s consistent popularity among Indian consumers.TVS and Bajaj Show Strong GainsTVS Motor Company and Bajaj Auto both exhibited impressive growth in July 2023. TVS reported retail sales of 1,80,707 units, marking a substantial increase of 17.93% from the previous year. Bajaj, on the other hand, recorded a remarkable growth rate of 29.92% with retail sales of 1,12,592 units. These figures highlight the demand for their diverse range of two-wheelers and effective marketing strategies.Two wheeler retail sales July 2023Suzuki and Royal Enfield Sustain MomentumSuzuki Motorcycle India and Royal Enfield continued to maintain their growth momentum in July 2023. Suzuki experienced a 26.11% increase in retail sales, selling 49,483 units. Royal Enfield reported sales of 43,852 units, reflecting a growth of 26.51%. Both manufacturers managed to attract consumers with their unique offerings and consistent quality.Challenges Faced by Other PlayersSeveral manufacturers faced challenges during this period. Yamaha, with retail sales of 43,512 units, reported a modest growth of 5.13%. Ola Electric and Ather Energy, two prominent electric vehicle manufacturers, exhibited impressive growth rates of 398.40% and 413.58%, respectively. However, other players such as Piaggio, Okinawa, Jawa/Yezdi, Ampere, and Greaves Electric experienced declines in retail sales, indicating the competitive nature of the market.Electric Segment Faces VolatilityThe electric two-wheeler market showed a mixed performance, with varying outcomes for different manufacturers. While Ola Electric and Ather Energy achieved significant growth, Ampere faced a significant decline of 77.62% in retail sales. The ‘Others/Electric’ category, which encompasses various electric vehicle brands, reported a substantial decline of 81.48%.ConclusionThe Indian two-wheeler retail sales landscape in July 2023 reflects a diverse range of outcomes for manufacturers. While some giants like Hero and Honda faced minor challenges, others like TVS and Bajaj enjoyed strong growth. The electric segment continues to witness volatility, with some players achieving remarkable growth and others struggling to maintain sales volumes. Overall, the market’s performance signals the dynamic and competitive nature of India’s two-wheeler industry. More

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    TVS Block Your Date Teaser 6th Sep – Is It New Apache 310 Street?

    New TVS Apache 310 spiedAs compared to its faired sibling, Apache 310 street naked bike seems more practical in terms of usabilitySimilar to the strategy being followed by other homegrown two-wheeler OEMs like Hero MotoCorp and Bajaj, TVS is stepping up focus on premium motorcycle segment. Towards that end, TVS will launch a new Apache street naked bike based on Apache RR310. It will rival the likes of KTM 390 Duke, 250 Duke, Honda CB300R and upcoming Yamaha MT-03.TVS Apache 310cc street naked bike has been spotted on road test once again. As the test mules appear production-ready, launch is likely around the festive season or by end of this year. Now, ahead of launch, TVS shared an interesting Block Your Date teaser for 6th Sep 2023. The teaser does not reveal much, except for the words – Restless To Play? and the coordinates of Bangkok.TVS to launch / unveil new Apache 310 on 6th Sep 2023?TVS Apache 310 street naked bike featuresJust like its faired sibling, Apache 310 street naked bike can emerge as one of the most affordable in its class. While it will be based on Apache RR310, the naked version will have a unique profile. It’s not just the lack of fairing, but other aspects as well such as front fascia, instrument console, alloy wheel design, colour themes, exhaust and tail section.TVS will also have to ensure that the naked version does not appear to be an exact replica of BMW G310R. Some of the key highlights of the upcoming TVS Apache 310 street naked bike include an aggressive front fascia with sharp LED headlight, USD forks in golden finish, sculpted fuel tank, split seat design, upswept exhaust and monoshock rear suspension. The bike will be getting new alloy wheels, as compared to Apache RR310.TVS Apache 310 street naked bike performanceUpcoming naked version seems more agile and manoeuvrable. Riding stance seems quite comfortable in comparison to RR310. The naked version is likely to come across as a more practical choice for a broader range of users. It is expected to weigh less than its faired sibling. As compared to RR310 that weighs 174kg, the naked version could be around 10kg lighter. This will improve handling and also increase power to weight ratio.The bike will be using the 312.2cc liquid cooled, single cylinder engine. Max power and torque output is 34 PS and 27.3 Nm when the Sport / Track mode is engaged. In Urban and Rain mode, power and torque is 25.8 PS and 25 Nm. The engine is mated to a 6-speed gearbox. Top speed and acceleration will be close to that of the faired sibling. RR310 can accelerate from 0 to 60 kmph in 2.93 seconds. 0 to 100 kmph takes 7.17 seconds. Top speed is 160 kmph in Sport and Track mode and 125 kmph in Urban and Rain mode.TVS Apache 310 naked bike will be using a trellis frame. Braking duties will be performed by 300 mm and 240 mm disc brakes at front and rear, respectively. Dual-channel ABS will be offered as standard. The bike will have a range of connectivity features, powered by TVS SmartXonnect. More

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    New Honda SP160 Launch Price Rs 1.17 L to Rs 1.22 L – Unicorn Based

    New Honda SP160New Honda SP160 will utilizes SP125’s sporty profile, while borrowing the engine and other hardware from Unicorn 160While introducing new products helps target a larger audience base, it isn’t necessary to start from scratch every time. An easier and cost-effective way is to use an existing platform to develop new products. Sometimes, the best of two or more products can be combined to create something new and exciting.A similar strategy is being used by Honda for developing SP160, a mix of Unicorn and SP125. While Unicorn is preferred for its well-rounded design and powerful performance, SP125 is popular for its sporty profile. A combination of these aspects has potential to create a bestseller.New Honda SP160Honda SP160 featuresNew SP160 borrows much of its styling from the smaller capacity SP125. The latter is designed to be a head-turner on the streets. SP125 boasts of a sharp LED DC headlamp, layered fuel tank design with sporty graphics, unique split alloy wheels, premium chrome muffler cover and edgy tail lamp. The colour palette for SP125 is a lot more vibrant in comparison to Unicorn. A similar set of features are on offer with the new SP160.Honda SP160 will appeal to folks who are looking for a ride that is a lot more flamboyant. Of course, some platform-specific features of Unicorn will also have to be incorporated. But overall, SP160 will closely match the youthful exuberance associated with the smaller-capacity SP125. With Unicorn’s powerful engine, users can expect the best of both worlds.New Honda SP160Honda SP160 will have distinct colour options in comparison to Unicorn. These are Matte Marvel Blue Metallic, Matte Axis Gray Metallic , Matte Dark Blue Metallic , Pearl Spartan Red, Pearl Igneous Black and Pearl Deep Ground Gray.There will be some differences in the hardware as well. For example, SP160 will have a smaller capacity 12-litre fuel tank. In comparison, Unicorn is equipped with a 13-litre fuel tank. Another difference is that SP160 will weigh 141 kg, as compared to Unicorn’s kerb weight of 139 kg. Users can expect better control and handling with SP160, as it will have smaller 17-inch wheels at both ends. In comparison, Unicorn has 18-inch wheels.Honda SP160 performance, specs2023 Honda SP160 will be utilizing the 162.71cc, SI engine that does duty on Unicorn. It generates 12.9 hp of peak power and 14.58 Nm of max torque. It is mated to a 5-speed gearbox. Honda had recently updated the engine to comply with the stricter OBD-2 emission norms. SP160 will get features such as engine stop switch, maintenance free battery and side stand engine cut off.SP160 will have a Diamond frame, suspended on telescopic front forks and monoshock rear suspension. Braking duties will be performed by a 276 mm petal disc at front. At rear, users will have the option to choose 220 mm disc or 130 mm drum brake. Single-channel ABS will be offered as standard.Similar to Unicorn, SP160 comes with 3-years standard warranty and 7-years optional extended warranty. Pricing for Honda SP160 is more than that of Unicorn. Unicorn 160 is available at a starting price of Rs 1,09,800 (ex.sh), while the new SP160 single disc variant is priced at Rs 1,17,500 while dual disc variant is priced at Rs 1,21,900. All prices ex-sh. More

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    Ather Launching 3 New Scooters On 11th August – Official Teaser

    Ather 450XAlong with a slew of new features, Ather is launching three new scooters on August 11th, 2023Ather’s newest teasers on social media are building quite a hype. As per the teaser, they are going to launch not 1, not 2, but 3 new electric scooters. Ather calls this new range of 450 Series. It is not yet revealed what these 3 new scooters will be. If we had to guess, one could be 450S, which will take on Ola S1 Air. The second could be 450X Gen 4 to take on S1 Pro. What could be the 3rd one?Ather Launching 3 New ScootersThe Indian electric mobility startup is known to surprise audiences at events like this. Ather’s Community Day event is a testament to that. The new ‘Warp Through’ event on Friday will feature renowned stand-up comedian Jose Covaco, popularly known as Hoezaay.New scooters. New features. And even newer jokes (courtesy of @HoeZaay).Coming to you LIVE at 12 noon this Friday. Set your reminder at: https://t.co/ru0b1OI8RE#WarpThrough #Updates #Ather450S #Ather450X #Ather #ComingSoon #NewLaunch #ElectricScooter #EV pic.twitter.com/Qy4oEugoWd— Ather Energy (@atherenergy) August 7, 2023Some glimpses from the latest teaser on social media hints at more power, more torque and greater range. Also, new features. Video even mentions “Unmasking the new gen soon”, which could be referring to Ather 450X Gen 4. One teaser suggests more performance with Warp Mode. Enhanced practicality with more luggage space could be a possibility as well.Warp your way to the EV future!Ather refers to the new robotic face in the dashboard as AtherBot and is likely to ‘transform’ how we interact with the scooter. Ather’s new 450 Range of scooters will pack generational upgrades and will offer more tech and value for prospective buyers. All eyes are on the new 450S, with a supposed 3 kWh battery.This new base model EV from Ather will pack 115 km of IDC-claimed range and 90 km/h top speed. It costs Rs. 1.3 lakh (ex-sh). Pre-order window is already open and will rival Ola’s newest S1 Air electric scooter and other scooters in the similar price bracket.Recent updates from AtherAther Energy has reported remarkable sales figures for July 2023, selling 7,858 units, representing a substantial 229 per cent year-on-year increase. Comparing with the previous month, the company experienced a commendable 21 per cent month-over-month growth, selling 1,379 more electric scooters than June’s 6,479 units.To further support the adoption of electric vehicles, Ather Energy has collaborated with Bharat Petroleum Corporation Limited (BPCL) to bolster its EV charging infrastructure. Leveraging BPCL’s vast network of over 21,000 fuel stations across India, the partnership aims to facilitate the installation of Ather’s public fast-charging Grid.The integration of Ather’s App into this expansion will play a crucial role in providing real-time information on charger availability, making it easier for users to plan their charging sessions efficiently. The increasing sales and strategic partnerships underline Ather Energy’s commitment to shaping a greener and more sustainable future for urban transportation in India. More

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    TVS Raider Super Squad Edition Teased for Launch – Marvel Melody

    TVS Raider 125 Marvel Edition TeasedTVS Raider Super Squad Edition Heroics – Likely to launch as a top-spec SX-clusive MarvelCommonly known as Marvel Edition or Avengers Edition, TVS’ Super Squad Edition with Ntorq 125 scooter is one such offering that folks are familiar with. Popularity of Marvel Universe characters is unmatched, and offers a unique proposition to buyers to express their interests and affiliation.Now, the company is trying to bring the same ethos with its Raider 125 premium commuter motorcycle. TVS has teased the same on its social media platforms. We can see two variations in the teaser, but there could be up to five Super Squad Editions with Raider 125.Marvel’s Prelude – TVS Raider Super Squad MystiqueAs per the Super Squad routine with Ntorq 125, we can expect up to five variations with Raider 125 as well. Iron Man, Thor, Captain America, Black Panther and Spider-Man inspired liveries and colour schemes could be the main attraction with Raider 125 Super Squad Edition.TVS doesn’t call them Iron Man Edition, Spider-Man Edition, Thor Edition, Captain America Edition and Black Panther Edition. This could be owing to licensing of word trademarks and only licensed character designs and other symbol trademarks.TVS calls Iron Man edition as Invincible Red, Thor edition as Lightning Gray, Captain America edition as Combat Blue, Black Panther edition as Stealth Black and Spider-Man edition as Amazing Red. Base colours will replicate respective character’s costume colour scheme. And respective colours will get decals of that character’s special attributes.Other than visual enhancements, Raider 125 will remain mechanically identical to outgoing model. This way, TVS offers proven mechanicals along with a dash of individual expression with the integration of Marvel Universe characters.Mechanics – similar to outgoing modelTVS Raider 125 is the most feature-loaded offering in its segment. Tech-savvy too. In June 2023, TVS sold 34,309 Raider 125 motorcycles in India and shipped 4,434 of them abroad. Raider 125 shares its 3-valve 124.8cc single-cylinder engine with Ntorq scooter. Instead of a CVT, Raider 125 gets fixed ratio gearbox with five cogs.Currently, Raider 125 makes 11.2 bhp of power and 11.2 Nm of torque. It gets conventional RSU telescopic front forks and a 5-step preload adjustable rear mono-shock. Front disc brake and a rear 130mm drum brake are standard. As of now, TVS is offering three variants and two colour options.Only the top-spec SX trim gets a TVS-proprietary SmartXonnect connectivity suite. This package includes a 5” TFT screen, Bluetooth connectivity with notification alerts and even turn-by-turn navigation. TVS Raider 125 Super Squad Edition is likely to only launch with SX trim. A slight price bump is evident too. More