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      in Electric Cars

      Zoomcar to offer electric 3 wheelers on their platform – Partners with Eto Motors

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      Zoomcar and Eto Motors have signed an agreement to make available a range of platform services for Eco’s electric, and three-wheeler biz
      Henceforth, Zoomcar’s platform will be used to access Eto Motors’ operated electric three-wheelers for shared, first and last mile passenger commute needs. One will also be able to book transport vehicle for goods movement within cities.

      Zoomcar has for the longest time been making available private cars on its platform to for private rentals. Those who offer their car as part of the Zoomcar fleet are compensated by the company, and have to follow guidelines so the cars are worthy of being rented. For Zoomcar rentals, the company also has manufacturer tie-ups that enables it to list a wide ranging and sufficient fleet to be able to meet customer demand.
      Zoomcar and Eto
      With this new association, Eto Motors will be able to introduce a fleet of smart electric vehicle mobility solutions. Eto already has its brand smart vehicles for first mile and last mile connectivity service in Noida Metro. The company is focused on expanding its footprint, and widen its reach based on opportunities in the first mile, last mile, and intracity passenger, and goods movement segments.

      And the complete development focuses on EV adaption. For Zoomcar the opportunity comes in the form of EV adaption, and new segments. As the brand is identified primarily as a car rental company, with Eto Motors’ vehicles on offer, its operations expand to shared mobility, CVs, and transport.
      How quickly India is able to make noticeable EV adaption a norm depends on a range of bottlenecks that need to be addressed. As such, for now, public transport vehicles seem one way to do it.
      Transformation of mobility industry
      Greg Moran, CEO & Co-Founder, Zoomcar, in a statement said, “The mobility industry is going through a transformational phase globally due to the pandemic. At Zoomcar, we strive to be at the forefront of creating innovative solutions that can help shape this transformative shift. Through this partnership with ETO Motors, we aim to leverage our AI-based platform to enable large fleet operators to better manage their assets through greater vehicle safety and lower total operating costs. We are delighted to partner with ETO Motors on the next phase of their growth journey in India’s rapidly expanding EV market.”
      Biju Mathew, CEO, ETO Motors, said, “The next phase of collaboration between our respective companies with respect to the development of the co-branded digital platform will undoubtedly mark a significant step forward for the industry.” More

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      in Electric Cars

      Maruti 800 electric RWD with 378 Nm torque – Watch owner having fun

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      Pune-based EV specialist Hemank Dabhade has reached the final stages of his Maruti 800 EV conversion project
      Maruti Suzuki India Limited (MSIL) discontinued the iconic Maruti 800 in 2010 as the hatchback could not meet the then-new emission norms and safety regulations. In the minds of Indian automotive enthusiasts, the ‘800’ holds a special place since it has got a strong nostalgia factor associated with it. We are sure that your family or someone close to your family might have had a Maruti 800 back in the day.

      In its last iteration, the Maruti Suzuki 800 came with a 796cc MPFI three-cylinder petrol motor churning out just about 37bhp and 59Nm while mated to a 4-speed gearbox. The higher 5-speed variant made roughly 47bhp and 62Nm of torque. Clean examples of the car still find decent value in the used car market. On the other hand, the original SS80 generation has already become a collector’s item.
      The current-gen Maruti Suzuki Alto BS6 fails to match the Maruti 800’s charm despite being its closest successor. This is purely due to the emotions surrounding the ‘800’ since the Alto is much more technically improved. Maruti Suzuki might never bring back the ‘800’ nameplate (at least in the foreseeable future), yet many Indians look forward to a modern-day avatar of the hatchback.

      Loaded with sports seats, sports steering, touchscreen and a lot more – Modified Maruti 800 electric
      How about an Maruti 800 modified Electric?
      It has been a while since Pune-based EV specialist Hemank Dabhade started working on an all-electric Maruti 800 with his team at Northway Motorsport. The project, dubbed ‘Maruti 800 EV’, has reached its final stages and Hemank has documented the same (one of four parts) on his YouTube channel. Over the months, we have also shared Hemank’s other interesting projects such as the Chevrolet Beat EV and Honda Activa EV.
      Northway Motorsport’s Maruti 800 modified Electric is essentially a two-seater RWD city car that promises ample performance and driving fun (watch the owner perform powerslides, thanks to 378 Nm torque, towards the end of the video below). Its real-world driving range is claimed to be about 150km on a full charge. This is purely a developmental or research project aimed to showcase the potential of electric powertrains in a familiar platform.

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      The four-part YouTube series gives a rough idea of what goes into making an electric vehicle. It covers how the stock powertrain is stripped out from the petrol-powered Maruti 800, alterations done to the donor chassis, electric powertrain packaging, minor hiccups along the way, cosmetic enhancements (new six-spoke rims, front grille, steering wheel, etc.) and more.
      Key highlights
      Episode 4 starts with a brief recap of the processes mentioned above. The main electronics, battery-pack (an extra set lies in the ‘frunk’) and their cooling systems are placed at the rear, in place of a bench seat. This is covered by a flat luggage floor. At the front, Northway Motorsport has installed a custom touchscreen panel based on a Raspberry Pi single-board computer. It incorporates real-time battery usage, motor and control temperature; output calibration and the basic drive modes: Forward, Neutral and Reverse.
      The main highlight is the addition of HHA (synonymously used with ‘Hill-start Assist’ nowadays). It helps the car remain stationary on a downward slope until the accelerator pedal is pressed. Finally, Hemank does some powerslides in his Maruti 800 EV — proving that small RWDs can be fun irrespective of the powertrain type. More

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      On road prices of New Scooters, Motorcycles, Cars – To reduce from 1st Aug 2020

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      The car buying experience is set to get cheaper from 1st August 2020- as Long Term Motor Vehicle Insurance Package no longer mandatory
      Insurance Regulatory and Development Authority of India (IRDAI) has withdrawn permission for motor long-term cover effective from 1st August 2020. This move will result in on-road prices of cars and bikes to come down. While third party insurance is still a mandatory requirement for 3 years for four wheelers and for 5 years for two wheelers.

      Introduced in September 2018, the IRDAI has now noted several discrepancies in the efficacy of these long term policies and hence announced its withdrawal. The mandate was issued following a Supreme Court order so as to increase safety for both pedestrians and other motorists. It directed buyers to purchase a combined insurance pack which included own damage and third party insurance for 3 years for cars and 5 years for two wheelers.
      This third party insurance cover has been rolled back and from 1st August 2020 it will be revert to the mandatory 1 year, own damage insurance cover for both four and two wheeler vehicles. Even if the customer so desires, they will not be able to take out a long term own damage policy.

      Image – Bala Vignesh
      Reasons for its Withdrawal
      There are several reasons why the IRDAI has decided to withdraw this long term motor vehicle insurance policy. Firstly, the package policies are challenging due to affordability for a large number of vehicle buyers. Secondly, forced selling due to financial interest, which was linked to loans was also high.
      Finally, in the event of deficiency of service, the policy holder was stuck with the same insurance company for a long term and no flexibility of change. There was also no uniformity in ‘no claims bonus’ structure which caused some confusion and dissatisfaction in the mind of the policy holders.
      Post Withdrawal Impact
      This move will have an impact on motor vehicle insurance in a number of ways. For starters, the gross premium being underwritten will see a reduction. There are also large numbers of two and four wheeler who continue to ply on roads without insurance. Without this mandatory long terms cover at the time of purchase itself, renewals could be significantly reduced.
      Without long term cover costs out of the picture, overall cost of vehicles will come down post 1st August 2020. This could prove to be advantageous for the auto industry which has been going through several months of slow down. The current coronavirus situation further impacted the situation while this roll back could now see vehicle buyers once again heading to company showrooms. More

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      Amazon launches Car and Bike insurance in India – Benefits for Prime members

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      Amazon India has partnered with Acko General Insurance Ltd. in order to provide this facility to their customers
      Amazon Pay has gained popularity as a payment gateway for purchases on the e-commerce platform, and for other payments. Now, the tech biggie has entered a new domain in India with insurance policies for two and four wheelers. The development is in partnership with Acko General Insurance.

      The easy buying guide makes the purchase process simple to understand, and can be completed in simple steps. Convenience is further accentuated with one hour pick up, hassle-free paperless documenting, 3-day assured claim servicing, and 1-year repair warranty in pre-identified cities.
      Low value claims can be processed with the option of instant cash settlement. Amazon Prime members can avail of additional benefits. For now Prime users can already save up to Rs 999.
      For the e-commerce leader, this is the first country where it’s offering such a service. Amazon Pay insurance policies can be purchased from the app itself, mobile website, or found through a general search. Upon furnishing basic details as requested, a quote can be availed.
      Add ons include zero dep, engine protection, and others. Payment can be made via Amazon pay, UPI, or from a credit / debit card. Upon signing up, and process completion, the policy is sent to an email inbox almost instantaneously. A copy can also be downloaded from ‘Your Orders’.
      Management Speak
      Amazon Pay India Director and Head of Financial Services, Vikas Bansal said, “Our vision is to make Amazon Pay the most trusted, convenient and rewarding way to pay for our customers. Delighted by this experience, there has been a growing demand for more services. In line with this need, we are excited to launch an auto insurance product that is affordable, convenient, and provides a seamless claims experience.”
      Varun Dua, CEO, Acko General Insurance said “We are happy to partner with Amazon Pay to offer an auto insurance proposition that has been designed with the customer at the centre. Through this product we aim to deliver a superior consumer experience right from purchase to claims by making it more affordable, accessible and seamless. This launch also marks an important milestone in our successful partnership with Amazon and we are excited about the journey ahead.”
      Being a tech giant, it’s no surprise that Amazon is able to seamlessly integrate platforms, and prove itself to be a chosen payment gateway. In 2018, Amazon led a $12 million funding round in Acko. More

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      in Electric Cars

      Pravaig Extinction – A homegrown Luxury EV with bespoke interior

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      The Pravaig Extinction EV is primarily aimed at hotels and luxury transport businesses
      Pravaig Dynamics, a company which was started in Jaipur to build offroad buggies, has now turned its attention towards luxury electric sedans. The Pravaig Extinction, contrary to its name, is the genesis of the brand’s EV aspirations. Pravaig Dynamics has set up a facility in Bangalore and its upcoming all-electric sedan has already reached Prototype Level 6 (‘Level 9’ implies production-readiness).

      One shouldn’t read too much into the somewhat odd and unfinished exterior design of the Pravaig Extinction, as it is still a prototype. The company says that the final version will have four doors; meaning the luxury electric car will look significantly different from the prototype phase shown here.
      The rear-wheel-drive Pravaig Extinction is based on a steel monocoque architecture. Interestingly, it will not have a fixed interior layout for series production as in conventional vehicles. Instead, Pravaig Dynamics will collaborate with architects, fashion and interior designers to come up with bespoke cabins to suit their clientele’s individual tastes. Here’s a video of its prototype doing test runs in Bangalore:

      Speaking of the clientele, Pravaig Dynamics is not targeting private buyers by setting up traditional showrooms and service centres. The Pravaig Extinction is aimed at fleet operators, hotels and other luxury transport businesses interested in emission-free choices. Naturally, the rear seat will be given utmost importance so much so that the front passenger seat will be an optional extra. A lounge-type rear seat that can allow the occupant to lie down almost flat is being worked upon. Brand advisor and shareholder Ram Divedi says that the homologated rear bench is expected to achieve a near-flat posture of around 165 degrees.
      Pravaig Extinction Specs & Features
      The all-electric luxury sedan will be coupled to a 96kWh battery pack, locally assembled by Pravaig Dynamics. Power comes from a 130hp electric motor capable of propelling the sedan to a top speed of 196km/h. The Pravaig Extinction boasts of an impressive range of 500km on a full charge (claimed).
      The final production model will get autonomous capabilities, high-efficiency particulate air filtration system, swappable battery and state-of-the-art connectivity features. Pravaig Dynamics will share more details on its list of equipment in the days to come.
      Pravaig Extinction Launch Timeline
      The desi electric luxury sedan is expected to be out by Q3 2021 which we think is a rather ambitious target. Pravaig Dynamics plans to make 250 units every month with Delhi and Bangalore as its first markets. Chennai, Mumbai, Hyderabad and Pune are also in the radar and each city will get its own service outlet. More

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      in Electric Cars

      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