More stories

  • in

    Upcoming Okinawa Okhi 90 Electric Scooter – New Teaser Out

    Okinawa will be launching a new electric scooter called Okhi 90 in the next few days that has already been teased onlineImage for reference.There has been a visible surge in demand for electric two-wheelers, especially scooters in the recent past. With an exorbitant rise in fuel prices over the past few months, consumers have been slowly but gradually transitioning towards electric mobility. This has led to the launch of multiple electric two-wheelers over the past year or so.One of the leading EV manufacturers in the two-wheeler space in the country- Okinawa Autotech will be launching a new electric scooter very soon. Ahead of its launch, slated for 24 March 2022, the Gurugram-based EV brand has teased the upcoming battery-powered scooter on its social media handles.New Okinawa electric scooter- StylingRecently, a test mule of Okhi 90 wrapped under camouflage was spotted testing which seemed to be a near production-ready model. A pre-production prototype of the same was previewed at the last edition of AutoExpo back in 2020. Speaking of its exterior design, Okhi 90 features a wide front apron with a pair of LED DRLs and turn indicators mounted coaxially.A single-pod LED headlamp cluster is mounted on the handlebar while the rearview mirrors were embellished in chrome in a test mule spotted previously. The scooter runs on large alloy wheels whereas a thick floorboard suggests that the battery panels have been installed underneath the scooter which would provide the scooter better stability.Prepare to speed up your life,Because Slow never got anyone excited.Prepare to #PowertheChange.Stay Tuned.#ComingSoon……#YehESahiHai #DeshKaEV #PowertheChange #OkinawaScooters #BestEvScooter #BestEScooterInIndia #MakeInIndia #TheFutureIsElectric #escooters pic.twitter.com/nsi9URBFf8— Okinawa Autotech (@OkinawaAutotech) March 13, 2022Other notable highlights include a raised pillion seat, a chunky single-piece, a silver-finished grab rail that extends to form a sizable luggage rack at rear and a wide tail lamp. It gets a wide LED tail lamp which is reminiscent of Aprilia SXR 160.Expected Battery SpecsDetails about its powertrain haven’t been divulged yet but reports indicate that Okhi 90 will feature a removable lithium-ion battery pack which should offer a claimed range of 150-180 km on a single charge. On using a fast charger, the battery could be juiced up to 80 percent of capacity in up to 60 minutes. It is expected to boast a top speed of around 80-90 kmph.Expected Features & HardwareComing to features, Okhi 90 will be offered a fully digital instrument console that is enabled with Bluetooth connectivity. The display will show a range of crucial information such as speed, distance to charge, etc. The system will house an embedded e-SIM that will offer a host of connected features such as geo-fencing, navigation, diagnostics and more. The e-scooter also gets two drive modes- Eco and Power, that can be toggled through the right side of the switchgear.Speaking of hardware, by the looks of it, suspension setup on Okhi 90 will consist of upright telescopic forks at front and dual shock absorbers at rear. Braking duties will be handled by disc brakes at both ends and most probably aided by ABS. The scooter will be manufactured at Okinawa’s new plant in Bhiwadi, Rajasthan which was recently inaugurated a few weeks back. More

  • in

    Royal Enfield Himalayan Scram 411 TVC Leaks – New Details

    Scram 411 is expected to be priced around Rs 20k cheaper than Himalayan that is offered at Rs 2.15 lakhRoyal Enfield Himalayan Scram 411As part of its plan to expand its portfolio, Royal Enfield will be using its existing platforms to launch new products. It helps reduce development and production cost. We have seen this with Meteor and upcoming Hunter in 350cc segment. Royal Enfield 650cc range will also be expanded with the existing platform being used for 650 twins. Another new product is Scram 411, which is based on Himalayan.Royal Enfield Himalayan Scram 411Urban dwellers do get the call of the wild, but possibilities are fairly limited due to professional and other commitments. For such folks, investing in a true-blue adventure bike like Himalayan doesn’t seem appropriate. Moreover, it’s not possible for everyone to own multiple bikes. Royal Enfield Scram 411 seems like a better choice, as it can effectively tackle both city streets and mild off-road tracks.Himalayan’s scope for use in urban environment is limited by its bulky profile. Of course, one can ride it, but it will be a challenge in heavy traffic and tight spots. As a solution, Scram 411 drops much of the adventure-tourer equipment.It includes Himalayan’s signature exoskeleton that has heavy-duty luggage racks at front and rear. This reduces the bike’s width and makes it lightweight as well, ensuring a better fit for urban commuting needs. Ahead of launch tomorrow, official TVC has leaked online.[embedded content][embedded content]Other features that have been removed from Scram 411 include knuckle guards, windscreen and raised front fender. 21-inch front wheel used with Himalayan has been replaced with smaller 19-inch unit. This has effectively reduced overall height of the bike. Ground clearance has come down to 200 mm, as compared to 220 mm of Himalayan. At the rear, Scram 411 has standard-looking grab rail.The bike seems appropriate for everyday commutes and some weekend fun, as compared to endless hours of extreme off-roading possible with Himalayan. On streets, Scram 411 can easily merge with the rest of the traffic. In comparison, Himalayan’s presence on the tarmac often gets quite a few curious glances and some frowns as well.Royal Enfield Scram 411 specsPowering the bike will be the same 411cc engine in use with Himalayan. The single cylinder, air cooled unit makes 24.3 bhp and 32 Nm and is mated to a 5-speed constant mesh gearbox. To match the bike’s road-biased character, the engine could be tweaked accordingly.Royal Enfield Himalayan Scram 411Other hardware includes standard telescopic forks, linkage rear suspension, disc brakes at both ends and dual-channel ABS. Wheels are 19-inch front and 17-inch rear, shod with block-patterned dual purpose tyres. Features like Tripper Navigation are optional and can be added via Royal Enfield’s MIY customization utility.At the time of its launch, Royal Enfield Scram 411 will not have any direct rivals. This can work to the bike’s advantage. Competitive pricing is another factor that can help boost sales of Scram 411. More

  • in

    Honda Sales Breakup Jan 2022 – Activa, Dio, CB350, Unicorn

    Honda Two Wheelers domestic sales continue to decline in Jan 2022 – Exports have registered 100% growthHonda CBR150R trademark filed in IndiaTwo wheeler sales took a dip in Jan 2022 – rising fuel prices being the primary reason. Taking top 6 two wheeler makers Hero, Honda, TVS, Bajaj, Suzuki and Royal Enfield, sales dipped 19.43 percent on a YoY basis with each of these automakers, except Suzuki, posting a decrease in sales.Honda Motorcycle and Scooter India has seen a de-growth in terms of domestic sales to the tune of 24.36 percent. Sales which had stood at 4,16,716 units in the January 2021 period dipped to 3,15,216 units last month. Every product in the company lineup posted de-growth with the exception of Dream commuter bike.Honda Domestic Sales Jan 2022Honda Activa scooter claimed a top spot on the sales charts. Sales dipped 32.33 percent YoY to 1,43,234 units, down from 2,11,660 units sold in January 2021. The Activa currently commands a 45.44 percent share in the company lineup. Not only was the Activa the best-selling scooter in the company lineup but also in the country, finishing ahead of TVS Jupiter and Suzuki Access.Honda CB Shine was at a No. 2 spot with 1,05,159 units sold last month, down 9.52 percent over 1,16,222 units sold in January 2021. The CB Shine holds on to a 33.36 percent share. These were the only two models in the company lineup to see sales above the 1 lakh unit mark.Honda Sales Jan 2022A YoY volume decline was also seen in the case of Honda Dio scooter. Sales dipped 3.72 percent to 27,837 units in the past month, down from 28,914 units sold in January 2021. Sales growth was reported in the case of Honda Dream which increased 40.04 percent YoY to 13,021 units, up from 9,298 units sold in January 2021.Thereafter, sales of Unicorn 160 (11,349 units), Livo (5,408 units), Grazia (4,761 units) and CB350 (3,212 units) all posted a YoY de-growth. CB350 got new colour options. The recently launched CB200X and CB300R saw sales of 472 units and 252 units respectively while Hornet 2.0 (248 units) and X-Blade (225 units) also suffered a 94.73 percent and 86.79 percent YoY de-growth respectively. Honda also saw CB650 add 20 units to sales along with the CB500 of which 18 units were sold last month.Honda Exports Jan 2022Honda exports last month increased significantly. It was a 100 percent YoY increase to 39,013 units from 19,467 units shipped in January 2021. Unlike its domestic sales, Honda exports saw every two wheeler report positive YoY growth except for Grazia and Aviator.Honda Exports Jan 2022Honda Motorcycle and Scooter India launched the Navi in US markets at the end of last year. It is this Navi bike that made it to the top of the export list last month with 10,348 units exported, up 71.67 percent over 6,028 units shipped in January 2021. At No. 2, Honda Dio sales increased 70.87 percent to 7,069 units last month, up from 4,137 units sold in January 2021. Exports of Honda CB Shine also increased 102.62 percent YoY to 5,183 units while Dream exports were at 3,868 units.At No. 5 was Honda X-Blade with 3,104 units shipped last month, up 34.54 percent over 2,342 units sold in January 2021. Livo (2,600 units), Hornet 160R (2,040 units) and CB 350 (1,440 units) also posted YoY growth in terms of exports. Activa exports were at 1,080 units, up 196.70 percent over 364 units shipped in January 2021 while Unicorn 160 shipments were at 960 units in the past month along with 200 units of the Unicorn 150. Sales de-growth was seen in the case of Honda Grazia down 26.75 percent to 920 units and for the Aviator which was down to 200 units from 600 units shipped in January 2021. There was only 1 unit of Honda CB300R exported last month. More

  • in

    Royal Enfield Meteor 650 Spied – Super Massive Road Presence

    Royal Enfield will be expanding its 650cc range to include at least three new bikes, one of which is Super Meteor 650Royal Enfield Meteor 650While 650cc twins are currently segment bestsellers, it appears that Royal Enfield wants to provide more options to users in this space. Towards that end, three new RE bikes are currently under development. Apart from Super Meteor 650, the company is also working on a cruiser and a bobber 650cc motorcycle.Super Meteor 650 featuresBy introducing new products, Royal Enfield has a better chance of motivating enthusiasts to go for an upgrade. Among the new Royal Enfield 650cc bikes, Super Meteor could be the first to be launched. It has been spotted multiple times in production ready guise. Just like its 350cc sibling, Super Meteor 650 has a beefy profile. It continues with signature retro features such as round headlamp and rear view mirrors, broad rear fender and round tail light.In terms of ergonomics, Super Meteor should offer a comfortable, upright riding stance. It has a wide handlebar, low seat height and centrally placed foot pegs. Other key features include curvy fuel tank, single piece seat and dual exhaust. At the front, the bike can be seen with a dual-pod instrument console.The larger unit on the left has the speedometer and other standard display items whereas the smaller unit on the right is the Tripper navigation display. This is similar to the setup used in Meteor 350. Take a look at the video below, shared by automotive enthusiast Adarsh Singh. It shows both – Super Meteor 650 as well as Hunter 350; spied together in Chennai.[embedded content][embedded content]With its large proportions, Super Meteor will have adequate weight to support effortless highway cruising at 100+ kmph. Its low seat height will ensure optimal balance and control. The bike’s cruising abilities are enhanced with its extra wide rear tyre. It is expected to get 19-inch front and 17-inch rear wheels, shod with 100/90 and 140/70 tyres, respectively.Royal Enfield Meteor 650 specsSuper Meteor will be using the same platform as that of 650 twins. It will be powered by the 648cc parallel-twin motor that generates 47 bhp of max power at 7,150 rpm and 52 Nm of peak torque at 5,250 rpm. It is mated to a 6-speed constant mesh gearbox. It is possible that power delivery may be adjusted to suit cruising needs of Super Meteor.The bike is expected to get standard telescopic forks at front, but USD forks could also be a possibility. Twin shock absorbers at rear will be the same as 650 twins. Braking system will comprise disc brakes at both ends with dual-channel ABS as standard.Just like its other bikes, Royal Enfield will be launching its new 650cc motorcycles at a competitive price point. Super Meteor 650 could be offered in the price range of Rs 3 lakh to 3.5 lakh. While it won’t have any direct rivals in domestic market, it could be challenged in future by upcoming Yezdi 650cc motorcycle. In international markets, Super Meteor 650 will be challenged by the likes of BSA Gold Star 650. More

  • in

    New Yamaha Electric Scooter For India To Debut On 11th April ?

    Known for its sporty, high-performance two-wheelers, Yamaha is likely to embed these traits in its electric scooters as wellYamaha E01 Electric Scooter. Image for reference.At a time when companies like Hero Electric, Okinawa, Ampere, Ola, Ather, etc. have taken the lead in electric two-wheeler segment, mainstream manufacturers like Hero MotoCorp, Honda, Yamaha, and Suzuki are yet to launch their first EV in India.This will change soon, as electric two-wheelers have registered strong growth in recent months. A number of factors are at play including high petrol cost, centre / state government subsidies and availability of charging stations. It’s the right time for established players to stake their claim in EV space.New Yamaha electric scooterBy the end of this year, several new electric two-wheelers are expected to be launched. One of these will be from Yamaha. Prior to launch, it is likely to be unveiled on April 11. Yamaha India has sent a Block Your Date invite to their dealers.Though the invite does not reveal much, it does say that the product will be Stylish, Sporty. Then it says it will be an Exciting New Future with Yamaha. This likely indicates towards the upcoming product being an electric vehicle – most likely an electric scooter.New Yamaha Electric Scooter Teaser?Yamaha has already registered the name E01 in India. EC-05 name has also been registered. This electric scooter is already on sale in Taiwan. It has been developed in collaboration with Taiwan-based Gogoro Inc., one of the leading providers of EVs and battery swapping infrastructure.Yamaha’s first EV for the Indian market could be a maxi-styled scooter. It will be a premium product, probably rivalling the likes of Ather 450X and Bajaj Chetak. The scooter will likely be equipped with a full-digital LCD instrument console. Bluetooth-based connectivity features are expected to be offered. Users will be able to access a range of features and functions via Yamaha’s smartphone app.Yamaha electric scooter specsDetails about Yamaha’s India-spec electric scooter are scarce at this point of time. In terms of performance, it could be comparable to a 110cc petrol scooter – like Honda Activa, TVS Jupiter. Range could be around 70-80 km and top speed of approximately 80-100 kmph. The scooter is expected to offer comfortable riding ergonomics.It is expected to get multiple ride modes, which will determine speed and range. Yamaha electric scooter could get telescopic forks at front and dual rear shock absorbers. Other features include – LED headlight, alloys at front and rear, trendy rear view mirrors and comfy single piece seat. Braking duties are performed by disc brakes, integrated with ABS.Just like some other EV manufacturers, Yamaha could offer multiple ownership options. One of these will be a subscription based plan that will be backed by battery swapping infrastructure. Users can buy the scooter without battery and pay a monthly subscription fee along with the cost of swapping batteries. Official details are expected to be revealed in the coming weeks, while launch could take place sometime in May / June 2022. More

  • in

    2022 Bajaj Dominar 250 Alloy Wheels Updated To Black Colour

    Underpinnings and powertrains of both Bajaj Dominar 250 and Dominar 400 are based on their respective KTM counterparts2022 Bajaj Dominar 250Automakers nowadays have to constantly update their respective lineup in order to stay competitive and relevant among a flock of other offerings. Bajaj Auto is one company that frequently rings in new updates for its models. After giving alloys update to Pulsar, Bajaj has given update to Dominar 250.The quarter-litre tourer has received a new set of alloy wheels for the year 2022. The updated Dominar continues to roll on 17-inch alloys with a similar design. However, the latest ones are blacked-out as opposed to silver-coloured units available previously. Other than this, Dominar 250 hasn’t undergone any other update.Dominar 250 gets the same design as its larger and more powerful sibling- Dominar 400 minus the touring accessories that are now offered as a standard fitment in the latter. The quarter-litre Dominar is available in three dual-tone colour schemes including Sparkling black with Matte silver, Racing Red with Matte silver and Citrus Red with Matte silver.Bajaj Dominar 250- SpecsDominar 250 derives its energy from a 250cc single-cylinder liquid-cooled DOHC, four-valve engine that kicks out 26.6 bhp at 8,500rpm and 23.5 Nm at 6,500rpm. Take a look at the 2022 Bajaj Dominar walkaround video by Autoholic Manish below.[embedded content][embedded content]The same engine is also offered in the KTM 250 range in a slightly higher state of tune. This motor is paired with a six-speed gearbox via a slipper and assist clutch. It takes 10.5 seconds for the bike to reach 100kmph from a standstill while top speed is rated at 132 kmph.Coming to cycle parts, suspension duties are handled by 37 mm Up-Side Down (USD) forks at front and a Multi-step adjustable Monoshock with Nitrox at rear. Stopping power is derived from single disc brakes at both ends aided by a dual-channel ABS as standard. It rolls on 100/80 section front and 130/70 section rear tyres.Features & PriceIn terms of features, Dominar 250 is equipped with a digital instrument console that displays crucial ride-related information. Other highlights include full LED illumination, fancy-looking mirror stalks and a single-side twin-barrel exhaust canister. The bike tips the weighing scales at 180kg and gets a saddle height of 800mm. Fuel tank capacity is pegged at 13 litres.Existing Bajaj Dominar 250 – Silver AlloysBajaj offers Dominar 250 in a single variant which is now priced at Rs 1.67 lakh (ex-showroom). It competes against other quarter-litre offerings like Yamaha FZ25 and Suzuki Gixxer 250. The Dominar range- both 250 and 400 has been witnessing a decline in monthly sales volume in recent times. In January 2021, Dominar 250 and Dominar 400 registered a respective volume of only 662 units and 717 units. More

  • in

    Bajaj Avenger 220 Modified Bobber Samsara – Inspired By Buddha

    Bobber motorcycles are yet to make their presence felt on Indian streets; only a few such motorcycles currently available hereBajaj Avenger 220 Modified – Samsara By VP Designs, PuneBajaj has quite a few popular bikes in India and across the globe as well. However, its portfolio currently misses out on a bobber motorcycle. While there aren’t any indications that Bajaj is working on a bobber motorcycle, bike customization shop VP Designs has come up with an interesting bobber-styled makeover based on Avenger 220.Bajaj Avenger Modified – Inspired by BuddhaThis customization project is inspired by Buddha, an enlightened being that lived several hundreds of years earlier. The modified bike has been aptly named ‘Samsara’, which is all about the endless cycle of life, death and rebirth.The bike resonates with all things spiritual and has a powerful influence on everyone who catches a glimpse of this beauty. One of the most noticeable aspects of this modified Avenger 220 is its enchanting blue-black colour theme.It has a calming effect on the mind and exudes a sense of peace, tranquillity and wisdom. It’s also pretty close to having a hypnotic effect that’s difficult to shake off. Blue is probably the best option for this specific theme, as it is associated with things like meditation and transcendence.Bajaj Avenger 220 Modified – Samsara By VP Designs, PuneTalking about finer details, the fuel tank gets an intricate painting of Buddha. It depicts the sage in a deep state of meditation, something that highlights the bike’s spiritual inclinations. While turquoise blue is mostly used, there are other shades of blue as well for a more profound visual experience.Bajaj Avenger 220 Modified – Samsara By VP Designs, PuneEntire bike is done in matte finish, which perfectly suits the theme. Had it been a glossy finish, the bike would have lost much of its mystical beauty. Apart from the fuel tank, blue highlights have been used on the fenders, fender stays, headlamp, handle grips, side panels, wheels and foot rest. These are done subtly, in just the right spot and proportion. Inner layer of the exhaust tips also has a blue shade.Handmade and hand paintedThis project is marked by heavy customization, wherein much of the stock components have been replaced with handmade units. It includes the round headlamp, drag handlebar, handle grips, foot rest, gear shifter, seat, dual tipped exhaust and number plate mount. Single-pod instrument console is mounted on the right side.While the focus is on spirituality, the bike has sporty bits as well. These include LED headlamp with DRL, sharp LED blinkers and sporty exhaust design. The bike has USD forks at front, as compared to standard telescopic forks used with Avenger 220.Other things like engine and braking system are likely to have been retained in their stock form. Extending the theme to the rider, a helmet has been customized with the blue-black paint scheme. Matching riding gloves, boots, jacket, trousers are all that remain to be added. More

  • in

    Ather 450X Electric Scooter Production Crosses 25k In 25 Months

    Ather 450X electric scooter production has surpassed the 25k units milestoneAther 450x Electric Scooter – 25,000th unit rolloutAther Energy finds itself celebrating yet another milestone. It’s been a little over 2 years (about 25 months) since the first Ather 450X rolled out. That was January 2020. Fast forward 2 years, and on March 4, 2022, the manufacturer rolled out its 25,000th unit.Reaching this number already may not have been what people expected considering sales was limited to a few hundred units a month. That number is fast changing and things are looking up for E2W manufacturers. Total industry size has ballooned, and 2022 is already looking better than ever before.YoY Ather sales growthAther saw YoY sales more than double. The market has been receptive to electric scooters in recent months, and expectations point to this number growing even further. The space continues to be interesting as the number of companies selling E2Ws, especially electric scooters, has grown by the month.The industry is being filled by companies that haven’t traditionally been present in the industry, and point to new age businesses that are drafting the future of electric mobility. With a large number of E2W companies setting shop as startups, a lot of what the future holds depends on funding these companies can attract.Ather 450X number ?25,000? just marked it’s attendance! From the 1st one on 28th January, 2020 to the 25,000th one on 4th March, 2022 — what an electrifying journey it has been! ?? pic.twitter.com/oJatLsaOUc— Ather Energy (@atherenergy) March 9, 2022On that front, Ather has fared well. With focus on growth and product development, Ather Energy has had several rounds of funding. With the electric two wheeler industry teething, it’s only a matter of time when volumes become manifold. The industry is taking baby steps in an industry of unknown territory.Of the companies that reported sales to the industry body, total electric two wheeler sales last month surpassed the 32k mark. This in itself may not look phenomenal but represents manifold growth. A year earlier, the E2W segment saw total sales closer to the 6k mark.Ather network expansionThe company is keen on increasing its presence and this will be possible when the company begins business in many more cities than it does today. As per plan, in the next 3 years, there will be 600 retail outlets.Being able to cater to that many touchpoints will only be possible when manufacturing increases. To ensure an ecosystem that supports its growth plans, Ather Energy is increasing its scooter production per annum.  With an increasing number of electric 2W manufacturers, the future fosters a truly competitive environment. Only recently, Ola electric has entered the space, and where sales is concerned, the company aims for runaway success.  More