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      New KTM 390 Duke production starts – Gets bigger 399cc engine?

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      New KTM 390 Duke production startsThe new engine on 2023 KTM 390 Duke will probably displace 399cc as opposed to 373cc in outgoing model – 45+ bhp and 40+ Nm torque is possibleProspect of a new KTM 390 Duke is an exciting one. For there are a lot of updates coming with it. From a revised engine to new design, this 2023 update for KTM’s highest selling motorcycle is an important one. The updates on this will define other motorcycles like RC 390 and 390 Adventure as well.Launch seems to be nearing as there are more spy shots of production-spec models. The recent spy shot shows an uncamouflaged new KTM 390 Duke from the front at what appears to be Bajaj manufacturing plant in Pune. We can see a bunch of Pulsar motorcycles in the background.New KTM 390 Duke spied againThe last sighting of this motorcycle was abroad and on road and it didn’t feature camouflage too. Given the frequent sightings, we would wager that launch might be nearing. KTM is yet to disclose whether the new 390 Duke will debut in India or abroad.Regardless, we like what we see. KTM has stuck to its edgy design language but executed it differently with its latest iteration. There are multiple inspirations from the bigger 1290 Super Duke R. Even the new 390 Duke’s colour is a direct inspiration from Super Duke R. Headlights follow a similar theme as the outgoing model, but executed differently.New KTM 390 Duke production startsLED DRL signature is now not continuous as in the outgoing model and is an overall smaller unit. There is a new TFT display as well. KTM has placed it higher for easy visibility. Fuel tank is slightly different and gets pronounced tank shrouds. These lend a lot of character and aggression to the motorcycle. Frame and new 5-spoke alloys are finished in bright Orange, typical KTM.That said, both alloys and trellis frame are brand new along with rear subframe, split design seats and rear tail lights. There is a ‘T’ shape in the tail light LED signature that reminds me of TVS Ronin’s headlight LED signature. Disc rotors are now bolted directly on alloys and calipers are radially mounted too as before.Has displacement gone up to 399cc?The main change could be in its engine. A new engine architecture is evident from spy shots. Speculations suggest a larger 399cc displacement along with 45+ bhp of power and 40+ Nm of torque. For context, outgoing 390 Duke displaces 373cc and generates 42.9 bhp of power and 37 Nm of torque.Bump in features is likely too. We expect additions like traction control and cornering ABS, both of which are already present with RC 390 and 390 Adventure. Asking for wheelie control would be pushing it a little. That said, features like Quickshifter+ (bi-directional clutchless shifts), ride-by-wire, Bluetooth connectivity, will be on offer like on the outgoing model. More

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      Kinetic e Luna First Pictures Leak Online – Likely To Get Pedals

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      Kinetic e Luna First PicturesThe first leaked image of Kinetic e Luna suggests presence of pedals that could come handy while on the go, if battery exhaustsFor a long time, Luna ruled the Indian moped market. So impactful that people still call all mopeds Luna. Like Xerox is every copying machine and Jeep is every ladder-frame vehicle. Such was its impact. Now, Kinetic Green Energy and Power Solutions is launching a new electric vehicle and bringing back the iconic Luna name.Recently, CEO Sulajja Firodia Motwani revealed the finalised name “e Luna”. And now, the first image of e Luna has leaked online. It is a no-brainer that Kinetic would stick to Luna’s iconic design language to establish semblance with the blast of the past. Let’s take a look at everything new.Kinetic e Luna First Pictures Leak OnlineRecently, the CEO revealed the confirmed e Luna name. In the same Tweet, she also kindled our memories with the iconic “Chal Meri Luna” advert of the yesteryears as well. This iconic Luna of the past is the primary source of inspiration for new Kinetic e Luna. The leaked images show how e Luna maintains a similar silhouette.The new e Luna is still unmistakably a Luna. Kinetic has playfully added a dash of sophistication with a red contrast used against black base colour. It lends some character to this moped. There are chrome wire-spoke rims at both ends. These are likely to be 16” in size, similar to TVS XL100. Headlight is a round reflector unit, housed in a square housing.Kinetic e Luna First PicturesLeaked image suggests telescopic front forks, but there is a good chance that these might be just shock absorbers too (think Activa 3G). Rear gets dual shock absorbers for weight-bearing capability. There are split seats on offer on e Luna. Rear seat might have a removable function to accommodate luggage.Kinetic e Luna is likely to be primarily a commercial vehicle for the last mile delivery sector (both B2B and B2C models). Front step-through passage and rear removable seats might be enough for most last mile delivery applications. Leaked image suggests presence of pedals too, which would come in handy when battery runs out.Electric powertrain for commercial applicationsNew e Luna will feature an electric powertrain. Kinetic hasn’t revealed battery and motor specs. We would wager that a small battery with 50 to 100 km of range from a single charge is highly likely. This is likely to be a fixed battery, unlike Honda Benly e, which features a removable battery and will target a similar market upon launch.In terms of features, we expect bare minimum. For example, a digital instrument cluster (LCD), halogen headlights, tail lights and turn indicators, crash guard at the front, a grab rail at the back, drum brakes at both ends and not a lot more. Pricing could be around Rs. 50,000 mark.Source More

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      Honda 2W May 2023 Sales – Challenges As Numbers Plunge

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      New Honda ActivaHonda 2W May 2023 Sales Shake Up – Mayhem in Numbers is a Rollercoaster RideIn May 2023, Honda two-wheeler sales were subdued. Domestic sales stood at 3,11,144 units. Exports accounted for 18,249 units, resulting in a total of 3,29,393 units. A year prior, in May 2022, domestic sales were slightly higher at 3,20,844 units, whereas exports were 32,344 units. That amounted to a total of 3,53,188 units.This indicates a decline for Honda 2W May 2023 sales compared to the previous year. With a difference of -9,700 units domestically and -14,095 units in exports, culminating in an overall decline of -23,795 units.May 2023 Sales Slump: Honda Two-Wheelers Battle the OddsAnalysing the year-on-year growth percentage reveals a negative trend. Domestic sales witnessed a decline of -3.02 percent. Exports experienced a significant decrease of -43.58 percent in May 2023 compared to May 2022.This downward trend suggests that Honda faced challenges in both the domestic and international markets. Examining sales market share distribution for May 2023, as always, domestic sales held a dominant position at 94.46 percent of total sales.Honda 2W sales May 2023Honda Two-Wheeler Sales Take a Dive: May 2023’s Rollercoaster RideExport market sales share is significantly smaller, accounting for only 5.54 percent of Honda’s overall sales. This stark contrast highlights the company’s heavy reliance on the domestic market, which could pose risks if domestic demand were to decline.Shifting focus to the month-on-month performance, comparing Honda 2W May 2023 sales with April 2023, Honda experienced a decline in both domestic and export sales. Domestic sales dropped by -27,145 units, exports declined by -18,209 units, resulting in an overall decrease of -45,354 units. This signifies a negative growth rate of -8.02 percent on a month-on-month basis.Mayhem in May: Sales Encounter a Rocky RoadAnalysing the market share for April 2023, Honda domestic sales held a dominant share of 90.27 percent, with exports contributing a mere 9.73 percent to the overall sales. However, the declining sales figures for both domestic and export markets indicate a challenging business environment for Honda during this period.Month-on-month comparison indicated a negative growth rate, reflecting a challenging business environment for Honda during this period. More

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      Royal Enfield Sales May 2023 at 77k – Starts CKD Ops in Nepal

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      Royal Enfield Meteor 350Royal Enfield sales and exports for the month May 2023 stood on a positive note in both YoY and MoM analysis in domestic market – While exports took a hit YoYThe Chennai-based motorcycle manufacturer has unprecedented popularity in classic and retro motorcycles both here in India and abroad. With a slew of 350cc, 650cc and 411cc motorcycles, Royal Enfield pretty much has a motorcycle for everyone. The company will introduce a new 450cc platform that will take sales figures even higher.The highest selling range in Royal Enfield’s portfolio is 350cc. There are a multitude of 350cc bikes in the portfolio including Bullet 350, Classic 350, Hunter 350 and Meteor 350. Together, Royal Enfield sold 69,038 units of 350cc bikes. Compared to 53,835 units sold a year ago, RE saw 28% YoY growth.Royal Enfield Sales May 2023YTD sales till May 2023 include 1,33,766 units which is 27% higher YoY over 1,05,399 units sold between Apr 2022 – May 2022. While the 350cc business is booming, Royal Enfield saw a slight setback in 350cc+ motorcycles. These includes the 411cc Himalayan and Scram along with Interceptor 650, Continental GT 650 and Super Meteor 650.This setback accounted for 14% YoY decline as Royal Enfield sold 8,423 units of 350cc+ motorcycles last month as opposed to 9,808 units a year ago. This trend persisted with YTD numbers too. Royal Enfield sold 16,831 units of 350cc+ bikes between April 2023 and May 2023, which was 17% less than 20,399 units it sold in the same period a year ago.Royal Enfield Sales and Exports May 2023In total, Royal Enfield managed to sell 77,461 units (350cc + 411cc + 650cc). With the highly popular 350cc motorcycles lift the numbers, Royal Enfield showed an overall 22% YoY growth as opposed to 63,643 units sold in May 2022. YTD sales demonstrated a strong 20% YoY growth with around 25K units gained in volume.Exports for the month May 2023Royal Enfield’s exports didn’t show the same growth that the company demonstrated in the domestic market. In fact, there was no growth at all. Instead, Royal Enfield lost 34% in exports YoY. The company shipped precisely 6,666 units last month, which was not enough to surpass 10,118 units shipped a year ago.In YTD analysis, this effect is even pronounced as there was 41% YoY decline. The company sold 10,921 units between April 2023 and May 2023 and in the same period last year, the company sold 18,421 units. That said, Royal Enfield has performed better than it did in April 2023 with 68,881 units sold in domestic market and 4,255 units shipped globally.Royal Enfield Sales and Exports May 2023Royal Enfield CKD operations in NepalRoyal Enfield has announced a new CKD facility in Nepal. This is RE’s 5th CKD unit outside of India – after Brazil, Thailand, Colombia and Argentina. RE Nepal plant will have a capacity to assemble 20k units annually. Operations will start with the assembly of Classic 350 and Sram 411. The modern facility is spread over 1 lac sq ft and will cater to growing demand in Nepal. More

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      Hero MotoCorp Sales May 2023 – 4.30 lakh Motorcycles, 27k Scooters

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      Hero SplendorHero MotoCorp has posted a 7 percent YoY growth in May 2023 while MoM sales have also increased significantlyHero MotoCorp has registered a 7 percent YoY growth in May 2023 to 5,19,474 units. The company has seen outstanding growth in domestic sales, while exports have dipped. Factors conducive to the company’s growth in India are on account of improved buyer sentiments, predictions of normal rainfall and a host of new launches.Hero MotoCorp is also set to refresh and expand the company’s product lineup with five new motorcycles and scooters over the next couple of months. It was the Hero Splendor that has done exceedingly well, bringing in rich rewards for the company, scaling over every other motorcycle on the top 10 list with 32,55,744 units sold in FY 2023. The company also introduced the OBD-II and E20 compliant XPulse 200 4V in May 2023.Hero MotoCorp Sales May 2023Hero MotoCorp has reported total sales (domestic + exports) of 519,474 units in May 2023. This was a YoY growth of 7 percent over 486,704 units sold in May 2022. On a YTD basis, the company has reported total sales of 9,15,581 units as against 9,05,326 units sold in YRD FY2022.Motorcycle sales stood at 4,89,336 units in the past month, up from 4,52,246 units sold in May 2022 thus relating to a 37,090 unit volume growth. During the period April-May 2023, the company sold 8,58,166 motorcycles as against 8,44,873 units sold in the April-May 2022 period.Hero MotoCorp sales May 2023Scooter sales stood at 30,138 units, a YoY de-growth as against 34,458 units sold in May 2022. Sales of scooters on a YTD basis also fell to 57,415 units in the FY 2023 period as against 60,453 units sold in the corresponding period of 2022. The relatively new Hero Xoom scooter, which featured at No. 5 on the top 10 scooter list in April 2023, has added good number to total scooter sales.Total domestic sales (motorcycles + scooters) of the company thus stood at 5,08,309 units in May 2023, up from 4,66,466 units sold in May 2022. Growth was also seen on a YTD basis at 8,94,493 units sold during April-May 2023 as against 8,64,956 units sold in April-May 2022.In May 2023, Hero MotoCorp reported a YoY de-growth in terms of exports which fell to 11,165 units in May 2023 from 20,238 units sold in May 2022. This was a 9,073 unit volume de-growth. YTD exports slipped to 21,088 units from 40,370 units sold in April-May 2022 period.Hero MotoCorp upcoming launchesHero MotoCorp plans to introduce the new Hero Karizma 210cc along with an updated version of the Xtreme 160R. Refreshed models of the Hero Passion Pro along with new Glamour models are also in the pipeline while a scooter in the 125cc segment is also a part of its upcoming launches. However, the most anticipated model is that being produced jointly by Hero MotoCorp and Harley Davidson – X440 Roadster has just been opened for bookings at a down payment of Rs 25,000 ahead of a July 2023 launch. More

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      Ampere Electric Scooters price hike up to Rs 39k – Magnus EX, Zeal EX, Primus

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      Ampere Primus Electric ScooterApart from Ampere, other OEMs have also announced price hikes due to reduction in FAME II subsidyAmpere, part of Greaves Electric Mobility, is among the OEMs known for their affordable range of electric scooters. However, with revision in FAME II subsidy, Ampere has increased prices of its scooters. The new prices will be applicable from June 01, 2023.As other electric scooter manufacturers have also increased or will be increasing prices in the future, it is unlikely that Ampere will see any major change in demand. There could be some short-term effect, but increased prices will not have any major impact on sales in the medium to long-term.Ampere electric scooters new prices – June 2023Ampere electric scooter prices have been increased in the range of Rs 20,900 to Rs 39,100. The most affordable is Zeal EX, which has gotten costlier by Rs 20,900. New price of Ampere Zeal EX is Rs 95,900. Zeal EX has a 60V, 2.3 kWh lithium battery, supplying power to a 1.8 KW electric motor. The scooter has a range of 80-100 km and top speed of 50-55 kmph. Max loading capacity is 150 kg. Charging Zeal EX from 0 – 100% takes around 5 hours.Ampere Magnus EX electric scooter price has been increased by Rs 21,000. It is now available at a starting price of Rs 1,04,900. Magnus EX has a 60V, 38.25 Ah advanced lithium battery. Electric motor is the same as Zeal EX.Ampere electric scooter price hike June 2023The scooter can travel 80 to 100 km on a full charge and has a top speed of around 50 kmph. 0 to 40 kmph can be achieved in 10 seconds. A full charge takes around 6 to 7 hours. Magnus EX offers a range of useful features such as reverse mode, side stand sensor and combined braking system.Ampere’s flagship offering is Primus, which has received the maximum price hike of Rs 39,100. New price of Ampere Primus electric scooter is Rs 1.49 lakh. This is even more than the prices of some of the premium electric scooters in the market. However, as most OEMs will be increasing prices, it will have limited impact on sales.Primus electric scooter is the fastest of all Ampere electric scooters. It has a top speed of 77 kmph and can achieve 0 to 40 kmph in under 5 seconds. ARAI certified range is 107 km. The scooter is equipped with a 48V, 3KWh lithium ferro phosphate battery pack that supplies power to a mid-mounted 3400/4000W motor. Charging time takes 5 hours. Ampere Primus has riding modes of Eco, City, PWR and Reverse.Revision in FAME II subsidyIncrease in prices of Ampere electric scooters is largely due to revision in FAME II subsidy. As per a notification issued by the Ministry of Heavy Industries, subsidy on electric two-wheelers has been reduced to Rs 10,000 per kwh. Earlier, the subsidy was Rs 15,000 per kwh. Moreover, the maximum subsidy available has been capped at 15% of the ex-factory pricing. Earlier, this was 40%. More

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      TVS iQube Prices Hiked By Up To Rs 22k – Loyalty Programme Announced

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      TVS iQube electric scooterTVS iQube FAME-II linked price increase will be done in a staggered manner to ensure the electrification momentum is least impactedWith FAME II subsidies reduced for electric two-wheelers, several OEMs have announced price hikes. Subsidy under FAME II has been reduced from Rs 15,000 per kwh to Rs 10,000 per kwh. Also, max subsidy amount is now limited to 15% of the ex-factory pricing. This was 40 percent earlier.With significant reduction in FAME II subsidy, most OEMs have chosen to pass on the burden to consumers. Some OEMs like TVS have adopted a staggered approach, wherein prices will be increased gradually. This will reduce the overall cost burden on consumers and limit the impact on sales. TVS has also announced a loyalty programme to ease the impact of price hike.TVS iQube new prices – June 2023TVS iQube prices have been increased in the range of Rs 17,000 to Rs 22,000. The exact amount of price hike will depend on the variant. The new prices are effective from June 01, 2023. Before the revision in FAME-II, TVS iQube was eligible for subsidy of Rs 51,000. The base variant was priced at Rs 1.74 lakh, whereas iQube S variant came with a price tag of Rs 1.85 lakh.With the earlier subsidy, iQube standard variant was available at effective price of Rs 1.06 lakh in Delhi. With the new subsidy rates, iQube will cost around Rs 1.23 lakh. It remains to be seen what kind of an impact increased prices will have on sales of iQube electric scooter.Electric two-wheeler segment is expecting short-term erosion in sales. However, there’s unlikely to be any major impact in medium to long-term. There will be more clarity in the market in coming months, which can help boost sales. OEMs could also launch affordable, no-frills versions to attract customers.In addition to applying a gradual price increase strategy, TVS has also announced a special loyalty benefit programme for iQube customers. It will be applicable for folks who may have booked their iQube on or before May 20, 2023. The loyalty programme will be available only for a limited time period. It is meant to ease the cost burden, resulting from the revision in FAME II subsidy. Details of the loyalty programme will soon be published on the company’s website.iQube continues to register strong salesIn the last financial year, TVS iQube achieved the sales milestone of 1 lakh units. In May, retail sales were more than 20,000 units. Sales in coming months are expected to be just as good, as iQube has a healthy booking pipeline of more than 30,000 units. Even with the price hike, it appears that iQube will be able to increase its sales in the ongoing financial year.TVS continues to be committed towards promoting the use of sustainable mobility solutions. The company will take all steps, as necessary to accelerate faster adoption of EVs. TVS will also focus on development of overall electric vehicle ecosystem in the country. More

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      Harley Davidson X440 Roadster – Bookings open at Rs 25,000

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      New Harley Davidson X440Harley-Davidson X440 roadster will create its own customer base, instead of engaging in a head-on clash with Royal EnfieldSoon after announcing its India exit in 2020, Harley-Davidson had managed to salvage its operations by partnering with Hero MotoCorp. The deal encompasses sales and service being managed by Hero MotoCorp. New product launches are also part of the agreement.The first product to be launched as part of the Harley-Hero deal will be Harley-Davidson X440 roadster. While the design and development are likely to have been done by Harley, production, distribution, sales and after-sales will be taken care of by Hero MotoCorp. Bookings at dealerships are now open. You can book Harley Davidson X440 by paying an advance of Rs 25,000.Harley-Davidson X440 styling and featuresRetro styling is evident with the circular headlamp, turn indicators and rear-view mirrors. The headlamp has LEDs and there’s a LED DRL as well, placed across the centre. Turn indicators have the Harley logo in the centre. Instrument pod is a circular unit and expected to be equipped with a digital screen. Other highlights include a conical, tapering fuel tank with Harley and X440 badging, minimal body panelling, copper coloured exhaust pipe and side-mounted grab rails.Harley-Davidson X440 is expected to be offered in a wide range of colour options. To ensure a sense of power and dominance, a number of parts have been blacked out. It includes the headlamp cowl, engine assembly, engine guard, rear shock absorbers and exhaust muffler. Alloy wheels have a dual-tone finish of black and brushed metal. Overall, Harley Davidson X440 has a modest profile. It does not attempt to be overly flamboyant.New Harley Davidson X440Talking about ergonomics, Harley X440 has a comfortable riding stance. The bike has a flat handlebar and centrally mounted foot pegs. The handlebar appears slightly low-set, which could translate into a sporty riding stance. The seat looks comfy, especially the rider’s section that has a scooped profile. Pillion section is a bit narrow, although it may suffice for city needs.Harley-Davidson X440 performance, specsWhile engine details have not been revealed, Harley-Davidson X440 power and torque are expected to be more than that of 350cc bikes from Royal Enfield. For reference, the Classic 350 makes 20 hp and 27 Nm. On the Harley X440, the single-cylinder, oil-cooled unit could deliver around 40 Nm of peak torque. This should be quite useful across city streets.Unlike other Harley bikes, X440 has chain final drive. It is the second among modern-day Harley bikes to get chain drive. The first was Pan Am. Harley X440 has a tubular frame with a single-downtube design. It has USD forks at front and pre-load adjustable twin shock absorbers at rear.New Harley Davidson X44018-inch wheel at front and a 17-inch unit at rear ensures a majestic stance for the bike. The wheels have MRF tyres with a retro tread pattern. Appears similar to the treads seen with Pirelli Phantom Sportscomp tyres. Harley Davidson X440 could be launched in early July. It could be priced in the range of Rs 2.5 lakh to Rs 3 lakh. In comparison, Royal Enfield Classic 350 is available in the price range of Rs 1.9 lakh to Rs 2.2 lakh. More