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      SsangYong Tivoli E100 EV teased – Foreign Mahindra XUV300 Electric?

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      The SsangYong E100 and Mahindra eXUV300 are based on MESMA platform (Mahindra Electric Scalable and Modular Architecture)
      South Korean automaker SsangYong Motor Company, under Mahindra & Mahindra group, has teased its new all-electric subcompact crossover, E100 a.k.a. Tivoli EV. SsangYong is already busy developing the bigger Korando e-Motion electric compact crossover; the ICE version of which was once expected to be Mahindra’s XUV500 replacement.

      Earlier this year, Mahindra & Mahindra had shared that it is looking for new investors to handle its Korean subsidiary. It was in 2010 that Mahindra bought a 75 per cent stake in SsangYong. Under it, we have received two Mahindra products: Alturas G4 mid-size SUV (badge-engineered Rexton G4) and XUV300 subcompact crossover (reengineered Tivoli).
      SsangYong Tivoli & XUV300 Electric

      SsangYong Tivoli Electric teaser
      The Mahindra XUV300 is a sub-four-metre crossover (or “compact SUV” in Indian buyers’ terms) while its original left-hand-drive Tivoli base crosses four metres in length. It remains uncertain whether the new SsangYong E100 would be sized the same as its upcoming Indian sibling, Mahindra eXUV300 or XUV300 Electric. Teaser images suggest that it is slightly longer despite sharing the same MESMA 350 platform, developed by Mahindra Electric completely in-house. ‘MESMA’ expands to ‘Mahindra Electric Scalable and Modular Architecture’.
      Over the months, we have shared multiple spy shots of Mahindra’s ‘Tata Nexon EV rival’. The eXUV300 made its debut as a concept at Auto Expo 2020 (held in early February) with hints of significant styling differences. At least from the teasers, the Tivoli EV looks quite different.
      Mahindra XUV300 Electric – Facts To Know
      MESMA 350 incorporates a 350V powertrain that supports motor ratings in the range of 60kW to 280kW alongside battery capacities up to 80kWh. Dual motor configurations (all-wheel-drive) are also possible.
      According to Mahesh Babu, CEO of Mahindra Electric, the eXUV300 promises a range of more than 370km on a full charge. This translates to a real-life range of at least 320km.

      In comparison, the Tata Nexon EV returns an ARAI-claimed range of 312km (real-life figures would be in the 200s) with its 30.2kWh battery pack. It is powered by a 95kW (127bhp) motor producing 245Nm of peak torque. The Mahindra eXUV300, as well as SsangYong E100, would most likely pack more output.
      At the moment, the Indian automotive market’s electric four-wheeler segment is at a budding stage with limited options. In fact, there are only three EVs from mainstream brands: Hyundai Kona, MG ZS EV and of course, Tata Nexon EV. Meanwhile, the Indian two-wheeler scenario is witnessing increased demand for e-scooters. More

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      First PlugNgo electric car charging station launched in Delhi – Nexon EV, Kona, MG ZS

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      Hyundai Kona getting charged at the PlugNgo electric car charging station in Delhi

      This if the first of 9 such public EV charging stations to be set up by BYPL in Delhi this year
      With an aim to get reduce pollution levels in Delhi, the govt plans to push sales of EVs. In order to do that, they first need to setup infrastructure to support EVs. As a step in this direction, new public electric vehicle charging stations are being set up in Delhi. This first such EV charging station was inaugurated by Deputy Chief Minister Manish Sisodia. Called PlugNgo, it has been formed under a partnership between BSES Yamuna Power Limited (BYPL) and EV Motors India Private Limited.
      Location and App Based Digital Experience

      The new EV charging station is located at IP Extension, Patpargani, East Delhi and over the coming year 9 such charging stations is planned by the discom. The EV charging station is branded ‘PlugNgo’ and receives state-of-the-art central management system. The EV charger at the outlet is integrated to the PlugNgo mobile App available on both Android and iOS platforms, allowing consumers to locate and operate chargers.
      With QR code based online payment facilities, users will be able to scan the QR code with their smartphone and pay for the charging session via the mobile app. The App also allows users to locate chargers, status of chargers in terms of availability and track charging and payment history. Customers can also opt for advance booking options which is also offered on the PlugNgo App on Google PlayStore.
      Capacity and Unit Price

      Deputy Chief Minister, Manish Sisodia launching ‘PlugNgo’ – the smart public EV charging station, at Patparganj, East Delhi
      The station can charge upto 4 vehicles at a time in 45 or 90 minutes depending on vehicle type. Initial cost is at Rs 10.50 per unit. This is higher than what you pay for electricity at your home. PlugNgo claims that their rate is currently the lowest among all public EV charging stations.
      Two Types of Chargers – 50 kW and 30 kW
      The public electric vehicle charging station is equipped with two types of chargers. The DC 50 kW charger with three guns (CCS2 + CHAdeMO + Type 2 AC) can be used for charging the Hyundai Kona, MG ZS EV and Tata Nexon Electric. The DC 30 kW with Guns (Both GB/T) can charge the Mahindra e-Verito and Tata Tigor. Two vehicles can be charged at the same time from each charger. The charging stations under PlugNgo will be able to charge 15-18 cars per day.
      Tentative Cost and Saving
      Depending on the make, an electric vehicle can offer running cost between Rs.1.25-1.50 per km. This when compared to a petrol/diesel/CNG vehicle is extremely competitive thus saving the user a substantial amount per km. Along with cost saving, an electric vehicle can also result in saving of over 30 tonnes of CO2 in a lifespan of 10 years. More

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      New vehicle temporary registration number plate norms updated

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      New Kia Seltos. Image for reference.

      New vehicles with temporary registration numbers will be in alpha numerals and colour coded depending on it being an electric, private or a dealer / test drive vehicle
      The Ministry of Road Transport and Highways has released a new notification with regard to registration of new vehicles. These are alpha-numeric, colour coded number plates which will vary according to the vehicle in question.
      New colour codes to clear confusion

      Registration number plates of new electric vehicles will see the same alpha-numeric yellow coloured plates with green background. Vehicles with temporary registration will get alpha-numeric number plates in red with a yellow background while dealer vehicles will show off alpha-numeric number plates in white with red coloured background.
      These new regulations are under the Central Motor Vehicle Rules (CMVR) and bar the use of any other lettering except alphabets with capital letters in English and Arabic numerals on the number plate. Hence forth, there will be no regional languages used for number plates and even use of small letters will be considered illegal. This new regulation also applies to VIP numbers which are auctioned by the states.
      Height, thickness and space
      The CMVR also mentions the exact dimensions of each number plate. For all motor vehicles, with the exception of two and three wheelers, the numbers and alphabets mentioned on the number plates must now conform to new dimensions. It should measure 65mm height, 10mm thick and 10mm space.
      Why these changes?
      Long answer short, to avoid criminals getting away because of old rules. These new norms come into effect in view of the fact that cameras with automatic number plate readers find it difficult to read such number plates that do not conform to a fixed standard. The earlier form of registration number plates, on pieces of paper, was unclear and could be removed, in case the vehicle was used to commit a crime.
      This also caused some discrepancies in detecting crime as the printing was unclear and could not be captured by the CCTV cameras positioned for this purpose. Hence forth, the standard format of registration number plates would ensure easier detection of criminals using such vehicles to commit crimes while also setting standards as all vehicles in each category would now conform to a fixed format and colour code.
      HSRP Number Plates
      Earlier last month, the Ministry of Road Transport and Highways also mandated a 1 cm green sticker offering registration details for BS6 compliant motor vehicles. This order will come into effect from 1st October 2020 and all vehicles complying with the new BS6 emission standards will have a 1 cm green strip affixed on the top in a third registration plate.

      The High Security Registration Plates (HSRP) will be factory fitted to the inside of the windshield of each new vehicle manufactured. It will also see a chromium based hologram applied by hot stamping to the top left corner of each registration plate at the front and rear along with laser branding of a 10 digit permanent identification number at the bottom left if the registration plate. More

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      in Electric Cars

      BYD Han electric sedan launched in China – 605km range

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      BYD’s Han electric sedan rivals the Tesla Model 3 in global markets
      Chinese automaker BYD Co Ltd has launched the Han all-electric sedan in its home market. Proclaimed to be “China’s fastest EV in production”, the BYD Han comes in with both plug-in hybrid (PHEV) and electric powertrains.

      It took the EV about 10 years to transform from its concept to a mass-production luxury car targeted at Tesla Model 3 buyers. At the moment, sales are limited to the Chinese market but BYD Co Ltd plans to gradually enter other potential markets in Asia as well as Europe.
      The Chinese automotive industry has made almost a complete recovery from COVID-19 pandemic. In fact, the country has witnessed the launch of several EVs across different price categories, over the last few months. Below is the BYD Han’s full launch event by YouTube channel Chinese Car Intelligence:

      [embedded content]

      Variants & Prices
      The BYD Han electric sedan is offered in an ‘Extended Range’ variant priced at 229,800 RMB (~ Rs.24.70 lakh). There is also an ‘Extended Range Premium’ variant available at 255,800 RMB (~ Rs 27.54 lakh) while the 4WD ‘ High Performance’ variant carries a price tag of 279,500 RMB (~ Rs 30 lakh). The PHEV Han ‘DM’ variant is sold at 219,800 RMB (~ Rs 23.65 lakh). The RMB-INR conversions are dependent on varying exchange rates.
      Performance & Range
      BYD’s Han EV is the first product in its class to get an Ultra Safe Blade Battery pack; a seven-dimensional quad-layered system. It is apparently the safest in the world and can remain stable even at high temperatures. In its highest trim, the BYD Han EV comes with 11 airbags, six cameras, multiple radar units, air purification systems and more. There are multiple driving modes that adjust the all-electric sedan’s performance and range accordingly.
      BYD claims that the Han EV features the world’s first MOSFET motor control module. It can accelerate from zero to 100km/h in 3.9 seconds while braking from 100kmph to a standstill is accomplished in an impressive 32.8 meters. The Han EV ‘Extended Range’ variant promises 605km on a full charge (NEDC test cycle). The Han DM hybrid (fastest hybrid sedan in China) can run 81km in pure electric mode and 800km combined.
      DiPilot Intelligent Driving System

      The BYD Han EV boasts of a market-leading DiPilot Intelligent Driving System or driver assistance suite. Notable functionalities include adaptive stop/go cruise control system, forward collision alert, pedestrian identification and protection system; lane departure warning, etc. Furthermore, it packs NFC smartphone key function that permits locking and unlocking even if the phone runs out of power or signal. The car is 5G-enabled. More

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      in Electric Cars

      Nissan Ariya electric crossover makes global debut – Drive Range, Specs

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      Nissan Ariya electric will be pitched as a Tesla rival – Will offer up to 610 kms of range based on WLTC Japan cycle
      The all new Nissan Ariya has been revealed at a digital event in Yokohama, Japan. It will go on sale in Japan from mid 2021, while sales in US and Canada will commence later next year. Prices in Japan are at about 5 million yen while in the US, it will go for $40,000 (approx Rs 30 lakhs).

      Nissan Ariya is an all electric crossover. It has been designed for complete autonomous driving with seamless connectivity, lounge like interiors and offering the latest in technology to both drivers and passengers. This future ready electric car is ideally suited both for daily commute and weekend getaways.
      Specs, Range, Power

      Powered by an all electric drivetrain, the Ariya promises best in class power delivery, charging capabilities and extended range. It will be seen with two configurations of two wheel drive and e-FORCE all wheel drive, perfectly balanced for both delivery and comfort.
      The 2 WD versions get 60 kWh and 90 kWh battery options offering output of 160 kW (218 hp) and 178 kW (242 hp) respectively and torque of 300 Nm each. It is capable of acceleration from 0 to 100 kmph in 7.5 and 7.6 seconds respectively; with a common top speed of 160 kmph. Driving range according to the WLTC Japan cycle stands at 450 km and 610 km respectively.

      4 WD version of the Nissan Ariya gets the same 65 kWh for base variant, but gets larger 90 kWh battery pack on the top of the line variant. Power output is increased to 250 kW (340 hp) and 290 kW (395 hp) respectively. Torque output stands at 560Nm and 600 Nm respectively. Acceleration from 0 to 100 kmph is achieved in 5.4 seconds and 5.1 seconds while top speed is at 200 kmph. Range is 430 kms and 580 kms.
      Advanced design and technology

      Nissan Ariya measures 4,595mm in length, 1,850mm in width and 1,655mm in height. Its overall weight depends on model and on board equipment, ranging between 1,900-2,200 kgs with a 2,775mm long wheelbase.

      Being touted as the most technologically advanced Nissan model to date, the Ariya gets ProPILOT 2.0 advanced driver assistance system, remote park and ePedal features along with Nissan Safety Shield System. This consists of intelligent around view monitor, intelligent forward collision warning, intelligent emergency braking along with Rear Automatic Emergency Braking technology. Its on board equipment also includes Amazon Alexa, over the air firmware updates and a human machine interface allowing user to adjust car setting via natural speech.
      Maintenance and warranty package
      Nissan is offering the new Ariya with a basic warranty pack as is also offered on the Leaf. This includes a 3 year/60,000 km policy and battery protection for upto 8 years/160,000 kms. Once on sale in US markets, the Nissan Ariya will compete against the Tesla Model Y, Volkswagen ID.4, Volvo XC40 Recharge and Ford Mustang Mach-E. More

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      2020 Bangkok Motor Show starts tomorrow – Bajaj, KTM, Royal Enfield to participate

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      Management committee of Bangkok Motor Show have decided to go ahead with the exhibition
      While automotive shows all over the world stand cancelled for this year, and to some extent, next year (there is not gonna be a 2021 Geneva Motor Show), the 41st Bangkok Motor Show is set to take place between July 15 to 26. The shows organizer Grand Prix International Public Company says that the high-profile international event will be conducted “in accordance with the new normal way of life”.

      Thailand is slowly turning back to normalcy, allowing the economic activities to resume. The Bangkok International Motor Show (BIMS) which takes place at Challenger Hall, IMPACT Maung Thong Thani, has traditionally been a huge catalyst for domestic automotive sales.
      The show always garners significant number of new vehicle booking, thus making it an unmissable event for automotive manufacturers, dealers, component makers and other stakeholders. This year’s edition will comply with preventive measures set forth by the government to tackle the corona virus pandemic.

      2020 Bankgok Motor Show
      Brands participating at 2020 Bangkok Motor Show
      According to the organizer, several car and motorcycle brands have confirmed their participation in the event including Ford, Suzuki, BMW, Rolls Royce, Aston Martin, Maserati, Nissan, Honda, Toyota, Audi, Lexus, Porsche, Jaguar Land Rover, Volvo, Kia, Lamborghini, Royal Enfield, Bajaj, KTM and many more. There will also be a virtual motor show, an online event, to give the new car buyers an additional avenue to stay updated about new launches.
      Theme for 2020 Bangkok Motor Show
      The theme for this year’s edition is “Inspiration unlocks the future”. The visitors will be screened at the entrance and are mandated to wear masks. They are also required to clean their hands with alcohol sprays every time they enter a show car. The IMPACT arena management has arranged screening points for the Thai government’s COVID-19 app (Chana) and body temperature checks. The organization has also purchased a specialized robot to sanitize the venue on regular basis.

      File photo from 2019 Bangkok Motor Show

      In a further effort to reduce crowding, the main gang way has been widened from 6 to 10 m. The width of the alleys between two adjacent stalls have been increased from 3 to 6 m as well. A dedicated area with seating capacity of up to 5,000 seats has also been arranged to facilitate car makers interact with prospective customers who are interested in placing orders.
      Grand Prix will also offer virtual auto show experience with e-catalogs and live chat services for those who choose to follow the events at the comfort of their houses. Given the international significance of BIMS, organizers of other similar international events with mass attendance would be keeping a close watch on the level of success. Bangkok Motor Show has the potential to become the model for a public event in the new normal era. More

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      in Electric Cars

      Tesla Model 3 buyer in India gets positive reply from Elon Musk

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      For years, Indians have been dreaming over the idea of Tesla making its Indian debut – This is not the first time Elon Musk has hinted India launch is near
      Over the past few years there have been multiple incidences which indicated that Tesla was not finding the Indian market apt for a debut. There have been innumerable flip-flops to Tesla’s India plans. In August’19, Tesla’s Boss, Elon Musk had stated that Tesla didn’t find Indian taxation & administrative rules conducive for an entry into the market, at least not at that point of time.

      However, in latest turn of interesting events (technically in a latest Twitter conversation), Elon Musk has indicated that Tesla might be making its Indian debut, soon. It is to be noted that the ‘soon’ is open for interpretation.
      It all started when Tesla’s official Twitter handle posted an update on Q2’20 deliveries and vehicle production details on 3rd July’20. Mr. Arvind Gupta, a Delhi based Twitter user replied to the same tweet on 10th July by tagging Elon Musk and asking for an update for a Tesla which he had booked 4 years ago. Surprisingly, Elon Musk decided to revert to the query and tweeted ‘Sorry, should hopefully be soon!’.

      Screenshot from Twitter
      It isn’t the first time that Elon Musk has shared his intent to launch products in India. Earlier in March’19, he had confirmed that Tesla will start selling products in the Indian market by end of 2020. However considering the progress till date, it looks difficult if Mr. Musk will be able to meet his promise.
      It is to be noted that over the last 1 year, 3 respectable EVs have been launched in the country. These include the Hyundai Kona, MG ZS EV and the Tata Nexon EV. We have had EVs in the past too but those models had questionable range and seating capacity. However, the 3 models mentioned above have decent range and seating capacity to be considered as primary vehicles for commute.
      Sales of the 3 models have been decent. The Government & OEMs both have been doing their part to increase the EV Charging infrastructure as well. Multiple other electric vehicle launches are also planned in the near future. The recent developments clearly show that the Indian market has been warming up to EVs.

      Entry of Tesla will certainly be a big deal for the Indian market. However, success for the brand will still be majorly governed by pricing of its products because India continues to be a highly price sensitive market. The Covid-19 outbreak has further dented the overall economic growth, leading to lesser funds with individuals to splurge on discretionary expenses like a fancy means of transport to commute to work. More

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      Three new Mahindra EVs to launch in 2020 – KUV100, Atom, Treo Zor

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      Mahindra Atom electric spied
      Mahindra Electric had showcased all its current and upcoming EVs in either production or concept format at Auto Expo 2020

      Mahindra Electric, the EV division of Mahindra & Mahindra group, plans to launch three new products by the end of the current fiscal (31 March 2021). This includes the Mahindra eKUV100 ‘micro-SUV’, Atom quadricycle and Treo Zor cargo three-wheeler.
      Mahindra Electric is one of the leading players in the country’s budding EV market. Last year, the company sold 14,000 electric vehicles in the country. A good majority of the sales were contributed by the Treo and e-Alfa three-wheelers.
      Mahindra Electric had showcased its full line of products in either production or concept avatar at Auto Expo 2020, held in early February. The biennial automotive event also became a venue to debut the Mahindra eXUV300 albeit as a concept. The all-electric subcompact crossover will be a direct rival to the Tata Nexon EV. Over the months, we have shared multiple spy shots of the vehicle doing test runs.

      Mahindra KUV100 electric
      Mahesh Babu, CEO of Mahindra Electric, shares that there is a high potential for EVs in the commercial vehicle market. With the rise of e-commerce businesses, small emission-free means of logistics are witnessing increased demand. Still, sales remain on the lower side due to the ongoing COVID-19 crisis but much better than the initial lockdown phases. Mahesh Babu states that demand for electric three-wheelers has recovered by almost 50 per cent that of usual or pre-COVID trends.
      Prices of the Mahindra eKUV100 were already revealed at Auto Expo 2020. The raised hatchback comes at a starting price of Rs 8.25 lakh ex-showroom. Powered by a 40kW (~54bhp) electric motor, the eKUV100 produces 120Nm of torque from zero RPMs. Claimed range figures cross 145km on a full charge. Using a DC fast-charger, the battery can attain 80% charge in around an hour’s time.

      Meanwhile, Mahindra has discontinued the regular KUV100 diesel variant ahead of BS6 era. The current 2020MY Mahindra KUV100 is available only in a 1.2-litre NA petrol format making 82bhp and 115Nm while mated to a 5-speed manual transmission.
      At the moment, there are limited choices in the electric four-wheeler market. Popular names include the Hyundai Kona, MG ZS EV and Tata Nexon. On the other hand, the Indian two-wheeler market (especially scooters) has a wide range of products lacking a tailpipe. It is worth mentioning that electric scooters make more sense than a conventional petrol-CVT example in several scenarios — know more.
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