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      Hyundai Kona Electric Clocks 1,026 kms on Single Charge – New Record

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      The Kona electric was tested at Lausitzring circuit in Germany proving the company’s leadership in electric mobility
      Hyundai Motors has tested the range of 3 Kona electric cars at the Lausitzring circuit in Germany. This was done so as to prove its leadership in electrified mobility. These Kona EVs used for the test were factory spec models and unmodified. The three Kona EVs were tested for three days at the circuit and each travelled 1,018.7 km, 1,024.1 km and 1,026 km on a single charge.

      The test was conducted by German auto magazine Auto Bild and was monitored by Dekra – an European vehicle inspection company that has operated the Lausitzring racetrack since 2017. The drive teams were one from Auto Bild and two from Hyundai Motor Deutschland.
      To claim this record, the air conditioning, and infotainment system were switched off while only the daytime running lights were on so as to comply with regulations prevalent in the country. The three Hyundai Kona EVs were fitted with standard low rolling resistance Nexen N Fera SU1 tyres of size 215/55R17. Watch the video below showing the record attempt run.

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      The 3 days of test, which included 36 drivers recording average speed of 30 km/h saw each distance represent a record as per capacity of the 64 kWh battery pack which powers the Kona EV. Power consumption figures of 6.28, 6.25 and 6.24 kWh per 100 km stood below the average of 14.7 kWh per 100 km as is determined by Worldwide Harmonized Light Vehicle Test Procedure (WLTP).
      Another outstanding feat is that the Kona EVs managed to cover a distance of 20 kms on 3 percent residual capacity and continued to drive over several hundred meters even with zero percent charge. The test has once again proved to Kona electric customers that they can traverse over long distances without any stress of recharge or range.
      Hyundai Kona Electric in India
      Hyundai Kona electric SUV is also on sale in India. Here too it has managed to impress its owners. Recently, Bangalore based owner of Kona electric gave his car for 1st year service. The cost for service including labour charges, taxes, etc – was just Rs 1,043.

      Hyundai Kona getting charged at the PlugNgo electric car charging station in Delhi
      Another owner, again from Bangalore, stated that he managed to do 385 kms run from Bangalore to Coimbatore in his Kona, on a single charge. The owner stated that full charge is achieved in about Rs 250, which implies that it cost him about 65 paise per km.
      Hyundai’s new Ioniq brand
      With Hyundai seeing success in its EV car tech, they have now announced the launch of an all electric sub brand called Ioniq. Under this new brand, Hyundai will launch three new EV models planned for launch over the next 4 years. Extensive plans also see the automaker aim to sell over 1 million units of battery electric vehicles globally. This will help the company to take a market share of 10 percent in EV segment, and go on to become a leader in the global electric vehicle segment by 2025.
      The first Ioniq will be the Ioniq 5 midsized crossover SUV set for launch in 2021. It will be followed by the Ioniq 6 sedan in 2022 while in 2024 the Ioniq 7 large SUV will be launched. Each of these vehicles will be built on a global modular platform which Hyundai calls the E-GMP. More

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      BS4 Cars, Scooters, Motorcycles registrations allowed by Supreme Court

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      The Supreme Court has allowed registration of BS4 cars and bikes but withheld registration of vehicles sold in Delhi-NCR
      As per the Supreme Court order, all BS4 compliant cars and bikes sold prior to March 31, 2020 can now be registered. The registration of these bikes was put on hold due to the nationwide lockdown announced on 24th March in view of the COVID-19 pandemic. This ruling has been released following an affidavit filed by the Federation of Automobile Dealers Associations (FADA).

      The Court recalled its March 27th order on 8th July 20202, wherein it allowed sales of BS4 vehicles for 10 days following of the lifting of the lockdown across India except for the Delhi-NCR region. The court had also stated in July that details of each of these vehicles sold should be uploaded onto the e-Vahan portal of the Government of India.
      As per such information, there were a total of 9,56,015 BS4 vehicles sold during the period March 12-31 2020 out of which 9,01,223 were registered. In March, FADA had also informed the Court that there were around 7 lakh two wheelers, 15,000 passenger cars and 12,000 commercial vehicles in stock which complied with BS4 standards.

      BS4 Honda Activa. Image for reference
      While the advocate representing FADA – K V Viswanathan states there is no wrongdoing or misuse of this judgement. Additional Solicitor General Aishwarya Bhati, representing the Central Government states that around 39,000 vehicles sold after the period and have also not been uploaded onto the e-Vahan portal and hence have been barred for registration. 9,56,015 BS4 vehicles were sold from March 12 and March 31 this year. Of these, 9,01,223 were registered. The temporary hold on BS4 registration was the indication that such vehicles had been sold past their due date.
      Bharat Stage (BS) emission norm
      Bharat Stage emission norms relate to the standards instituted by the Government of India in relation to output of air pollutants from motor vehicles. BS4 norms came into effect from April 2017. In 2016 itself the Center had announced that the country would be skipping the BS5 norms and directly going on to BS6 norms from April 2020. As per the Supreme Court directives, no BS4 compliant vehicle could be sold or registered in India post 1st April 2020.
      Even as several automakers like Maruti Suzuki, Tata Motors, Hyundai and Mahindra have already transitioned a major chunk of their product portfolio to BS6 from BS4, there were complaints from auto dealers who raised doubts about being able to liquidate inventory prior to the stipulated deadline.
      Covid-19 pandemic added to these woes and hence the top court gave orders that vehicles sold and could not be registered in view of the lockdown that followed could be registered by a later date following a 10 day extension granted. However, concerns arose when the number of BS4 vehicle sold in March 2020 despite lockdown appeared to be much too high. More

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      Tata Nexon Electric modified with Bigger Slotted Brakes – Video

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      Pune-based Northway Motorsport has major plans to make a factory-fresh Tata Nexon EV “better” in terms of performance and dynamics
      At the moment, the Indian automotive market has three ‘proper’ electric four-wheelers: Tata Nexon EV, MG ZS EV and Hyundai Kona. Meanwhile, Mahindra & Mahindra has reached the final developmental stages of its eXUV300 or XUV300 Electric. Showcased at Auto Expo 2020 as a concept, the upcoming Mahindra eXUV300 will be a direct rival to the Tata Nexon EV.

      Priced from Rs 13.99 lakh ex-showroom, the Tata Nexon Electric debuted with the Indian automaker’s all-new Ziptron electric architecture. It comes in three trims: XM, XZ+ and XZ+ Lux. As per the newly formed Delhi Electric Vehicle Policy, the all-electric sub-four-metre crossover is eligible for an incentive summing up to Rs 1.5 lakh in the capital city. The government is really pushing towards cleaner and emission-free modes of transportation, especially in densely populated cities.
      Powering the Tata Nexon EV is a ~95kW (127bhp) PMSM electric motor coupled to a 30.2kWh lithium-ion battery pack. Peak torque is rated at 245Nm. In ideal conditions, the EV boasts of a range of 312km (ARAI figure) on full juice. It can hit 100km/h from a standstill within 10 seconds. A fast-charger helps the battery attain 80 per cent charge in about an hour’s time. Tata Motors recently introduced a subscription plan for the Nexon EV.
      Tata Nexon Electric mod by Northway Motorsport
      Pune-based EV specialists Northway Motorsport has acquired a Tata Nexon EV with the aim to “make it better”. Hemank Dabhade, Director of Northway Motorsport, states that he is quite impressed with what the EV has to offer in stock avatar. Still, he believes that there is room for improvement.

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      Dubbed ‘The Best Nexon EV Project’, the entire build will be documented on his YouTube channel, Hemank Dabhade. Over the months, we have shared quite a few interesting projects from Northway Motorsport such as Chevrolet Beat diesel-EV conversion, Honda Activa Electric and most recently, Maruti 800 Electric.
      Mods & upgrades planned
      The very first set of mods include better brakes and bigger wheels since the vehicle has (relatively) high torque characteristics. The stock front ventilated disc brakes (single-piston callipers) were swapped with bigger slotted rotors with six-piston callipers. Of course, this was not a direct fit and hence, a custom-made bracket was required. To house the new pair of discs, bigger rims proved a necessity. Hemank chose a set of 17-inch five-spokes shod with Ultramile UM R5 tyres.
      The higher unsprung mass might take a toll on the Tata Nexon Electric’s original performance but Northern Motorsport has several upgrades in the pipeline to make up for it. Furthermore, this could soon be the very first performance-enhanced Tata Nexon EV in the country. More

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      Skoda Enyaq iV electric crossover SUV debut on Sep 1 – Official sketches

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      The upcoming Skoda Enyaq crossover SUV employs Volkswagen Group’s MEB (Modular Electrification Toolkit) architecture
      Czech-origin automaker Skoda Auto, under Volkswagen Group, has released a fresh set of sketches or renders of its upcoming all-electric crossover SUV, Enyaq iV. The official debut will happen in Prague on September 1, 2020. Sporting Skoda Auto’s latest design and styling principles, the new Enyaq will be the first product to come out of Volkswagen Group’s MEB platform. Translated to English, MEB expands to Modular Electrification Toolkit.

      The company states that the Skoda Enyaq marks a new era in its timeline. According to the design team, the crossover SUV showcases “emotive lines and balanced, dynamic proportions” in addition to a “generous interior”. It is claimed to offer a “sustainable yet fun driving experience”.
      Global OEMs are heavily concentrating on all-electric powertrains across a wide price segment. Due to their immense demand, SUV or crossover body styles have become the go-to choices for newer electric products.

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      Karl Neuhold, Head of Exterior Design at Skoda Auto, has given a brief overview of the Enyaq’s vision and styling philosophy. The ‘emotive Skoda design language’ is already familiar to the world thanks to the new-gen Scala hatchback, Kamiq subcompact crossover and Octavia compact sedan (as per European standards).
      Fresh styling philosophy
      The upcoming Skoda Enyaq features sculpted lines, clear surfaces as well as crystalline elements inspired by Bohemian crystal art. Unlike existing Skoda SUVs and crossovers, the Enyaq has a shorted front end alongside an elongated roofline. Karl Neuhold comments that this unique trait gives the EV “a very dynamic look” and transforms it into a “proverbial space shuttle”. Large wheels and high ground clearance further strengthen its ‘SUV presence’.
      Being an all-electric product, the Enyaq does not need a large front grille for cooling or induction purposes. However, the signature ‘butterfly grille’ has always been one of the most significant bits on modern-day Skodas and hence, could not be easily omitted. On the new Enyaq, the grille component is set further forward and upright, blending well with the full-LED headlamps flanking it on each side.
      Functional design
      Compared to a mainstream ICE model under Volkswagen Group (employing MLB architecture), MEB products differ significantly in terms of height and overhangs. The battery pack rests inside the floor panel and demands taller body styles. The relatively long wheelbase of the new Enyaq hides this fact. Shorter overhangs were possible since the electric powertrain and its components take much lesser space than a conventional ICE example. Furthermore, the Skoda Enyaq iV boasts of an impressive drag coefficient of 0.27. More

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      Tata Nexon EV to become cheaper by Rs 1.5 lakh in Delhi – New policy

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      The Delhi government will provide a price cut of Rs 10,000 for each kWh of an EV’s battery capacity
      Decades ago, it was believed that by 2020 we would have flying cars as the ‘new normal’. Clearly, we are considerably far away from that aspirational dream. Instead, we are even struggling with a relatively poor adoption rate of EVs in the country.

      However, the latest guidelines from both central and certain state governments seem to be on the right path to help India accelerate EV adoption. Recently, the Delhi government rolled out an all-new Delhi Electric Vehicle Policy (read more) through which it intends to promote emission-free vehicles in the PV (passenger vehicle) segment. Under this policy, the government intends to provide an incentive of Rs 10,000 for each kWh of battery capacity. The overall applicable incentive is capped at Rs 1.5 lakh.
      Currently, India has three ‘proper’ EVs in the four-wheeler category: Hyundai Kona, MG ZS EV and Tata Nexon EV. The Tata Nexon EV has a battery size of 30.2kWh. Hence, it will be eligible for incentives up to Rs 1.5 lakh. Similarly, prospective MG ZS EV and Hyundai Kona buyers will also receive price cuts up to Rs 1.5 lakh on the original ex-showroom price.

      Hyundai Kona getting charged at the PlugNgo electric car charging station in Delhi
      To further sweeten the deal, the Delhi government has completely waived off registration fees and road taxes for EVs. But there is a catch: these benefits are applicable only to the first 1,000 private EV buyers in Delhi’s jurisdiction. Customers will receive the benefits once their EV’s proof of purchase is submitted to the regional transport authority. Electric vehicles purchased under Delhi Electric Vehicle Policy will wear a sticker highlighting the same.
      It is good to know that the new policy from the Delhi government is relatively holistic. In addition to incentivising EV buyers, it also covers supporting infrastructure — one of the major challenges in EV adoption.
      In the future, electricity DISCOMs (Distribution Companies) will work in tandem with the government and optimize load-sharing to accommodate EV charging. Furthermore, there will be a different metering system and special tariffs for charging infrastructure. As a start, the Delhi government will incentivise existing buildings with Rs 6,000 to purchase charging facilities. Upcoming projects will have to dedicate 20 per cent of their parking space for EVs while having appropriate charging infrastructure.
      The government plans to upgrade existing infrastructure to achieve at least one charger in a 3km radius, from any point in Delhi. It will be interesting to study Delhi’s EV sales charts in the months to come. More

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      Hyundai IONIQ converted into an all electric global car brand

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      What was a car name until now, has been converted into a car brand by Hyundai
      Hyundai Ioniq has taken on an altogether new meaning. What was until now a reference to the automaker’s compact sedan is from hereon known as the Hyundai EV brand. Until now, the Hyundai Ioniq sedan is available in three powertrains – electric, hybrid, and plug-in hybrid.

      Hyundai Ioniq, the brand will introduced three new electric cars over the next four years. Hyundai Ioniq EV platform will in its new avatar in early 2021 launch the Ioniq 5 midsize electric CUV, based on the 45 concept. The following year, the Ioniq 6 sedan (based on Prophecy concept) will be introduced, and Ioniq 7 in 2024.
      Hyundai concept EV 45 was showcased at International Motor Show (IAA) 2019 in Frankfurt, and is tribute to the brand’s first concept car. Ioniq 5 will be inspired by the past and integrated with cutting-edge parametric pixels. The design element will feature in future Ioniq vehicles. 2022 Hyundai IONIQ 6 sedan is based on Prophecy EV concept, showcased as recently as March 2020. It’s exterior design comes alive in its ‘aerodynamic silhouette of perfect proportions’. Ioniq 7 will be a large SUV.

      What Hyundai Ioniq means
      The portmanteau Ioniq, is a fusion of ‘ion’ and ‘unique’. Based on Project IONIQ, in 2016, Hyundai introduced the Ioniq vehicle with three electrified powertrain options in a single body type. Now, as a brand, Ioniq will be developed to achieve clean mobility goals. Ioniq vehicles will have even numbers allocated for sedans, and odd numbers for electric UVs.
      By 2025, the automaker wants to cement 10 percent market share in the global EV market, aiming to have a million battery electric vehicles on road by then, including Kia EVs. In line with ‘Strategy 2025’, Hyundai Motor Group aims to become the world’s third-largest automaker of eco-friendly vehicles by 2025, with 560,000 BEV sales in addition to FCEV sales.
      Hyundai Electric Global Modular Platform (E-GMP)
      The modular Electric Global Modular Platform (E-GMP) will focus on driving range, and fast charging, and all forthcoming vehicles. In line with Hyundai’s smart mobility vision, the lineup is congruent to a customer connected lifestyle experience. Ioniq brand being dedicated to battery electric vehicles will be responsible for the next gen of electrified and connected mobility solutions.
      Hyundai lists its current EV capabilities as ultra-fast charging, spacious interior, and battery-supplied power. The next step will bring together all this, and ‘future innovations that combine design, technologies and services to integrate in-car and out-of-car experiences for a seamless journey’.
      The EV-dedicated platform helps envision vehicle interiors as a smart living space. This is built around adjustable seats, wireless connectivity and unique features.
      “The IONIQ brand will change the paradigm of EV customer experience,” said Wonhong Cho, Executive Vice President and Global Chief Marketing Officer at Hyundai Motor Company. “With a new emphasis on connected living, we will offer electrified experiences integral to an eco-friendly lifestyle.” More

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      Mahindra Electric seeks partners to strengthen its EV Portfolio in India

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      Mahindra & Mahindra’s EV division is almost ready with the eXUV300 or XUV300 Electric subcompact crossover
      To strengthen the Indian automotive market’s infant yet growing EV scenario, Mahindra & Mahindra group is looking for strategic partners to scale up its subsidiary, Mahindra Electric. Despite facing a 94 per cent decline in profits for the June quarter due to COVID-19 and regional lockdown protocols, the Indian automaker states that its EV-launch plans stay unaffected. Mahindra Electric is arguably the pioneers of the nation’s push towards electric mobility in PV (passenger vehicle) segment.
      Immense interest in India’s EV space

      According to Pawan Goenka, Managing Director of Mahindra & Mahindra, the company has “invested significant capital in the segment”. He added that M&M officials are in talks with “multiple interested parties” to invest in Mahindra Electric. “We are fairly well invested (to drive the EV market),” states Pawan Goenka. In addition to a dedicated facility in Bangalore, the company has invested in its Chakan manufacturing facility to develop high-range battery packs.
      Mahindra & Mahindra group aims to be a dominant player in the global EV space with Mahindra Electric in the affordable PV segment. Higher up on the price ladder, Mahindra-owned Italian automaker Automobili Pininfarina will introduce performance-focused electric products (major portfolio expansion in the plans).

      Mahindra Funster Electric Concept
      The iconic design firm has only one product at present, Pininfarina Battista electric hypercar. It was unveiled at 2018 Pebble Beach Concours d’Elegance and production (limited to just 150 units) was scheduled to start sometime this year. However, COVID-19 and related confusions pushed the production timeline to 2021.
      Mahindra & Mahindra recently shared that it is looking forward to a new partnership to run the South Korean subsidiary, SsangYong Motor Company. Mahindra has decided to back off from investing further in SsangYong, except about $32 million to help it stay afloat. Certain parties have already shown interest in the company.
      Mahindra eXUV300
      The much-awaited Mahindra eXUV300 (or XUV300 Electric) will directly rival Tata Motors’ Nexon EV. Based on the brand’s all-new MESMA 350 architecture, the all-electric subcompact crossover (or “compact SUV”) promises a range of over 370km (under ARAI testing) on a full charge. Real-life range figures would exceed 300km.
      ‘MESMA’ expands to Mahindra Electric Scalable and Modular Architecture. It supports 60-280kW motors as well as battery capacities ranging up to 80kWh. Dual-motor setups (electric AWD) are also possible. The 2021MY SsangYong E100, the Tivoli-based electric crossover, is developed over MESMA. It is worth mentioning that the SsangYong Tivoli formed the base for Mahindra’s successful XUV300.
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      Delhi EV Policy Gives Additional Benefits To Electric Car, Scooter Buyers

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      Delhi government’s electric vehicle policy is curated and derived after a study of global electric vehicle policies in consultation with experts in the country
      Pollution and Delhi are usually mentioned together. Delhi government has now introduced measures to reduce pollution in NCR, and boost economy. Delhi EV policy introduces subsidies, and waives road tax as well as registration fee for electric vehicles. The progressive policy has two objectives – Boost Delhi’s economy; and reduce pollution level and contribute to sustainable development.
      Financial Incentives

      It goes without saying, the policy would help generate jobs on various fronts. Financial incentives for electric two-wheelers, auto-rickshaws, e-rickshaws and freight vehicles will be up to Rs 30,000. For electric cars, this benefit will be up to Rs 150,000. The incentives will be applied over and above existing e-vehicle incentives already applicable under central government.
      The unicorn that is the scrapping policy, a notion with no clarity is now being undertaken by Delhi government. A scrapping incentive will be provided when replacing a fuel run vehicle for an e-vehicle. Loan interest for purchase of e-vehicles for commercial activities is waived. e-Vehicles are exempted from registration fees and road tax.

      Ather Electric scooter will launch in Delhi soon.
      Today’s announcement will be valid for three years and will be reviewed regularly. To facilitate the proposals, a state electric vehicle (EV) fund is being set up to bear expenses related to the policy. An EV board chaired by the state transport minister is being set-up. The board will pave the way for policy implementation. The government is hopeful for 5 lakh new EV registrations in the next 5 years.
      Delhi cabinet approved Delhi Electric Vehicle (EV) Policy, 2019 last year to get to this stage. Delhi already sees a notable number of e-three-wheelers plying on its street but the adaption to electric cars and electric two-wheelers isn’t quite so enthused.
      Charging Infrastructure
      To promote the use of EVs, the Delhi government is keen on infrastructure development and is keen to set-up 200 charging stations in a year, and and install an electric charging station every 3 kms. The policy blueprint will facilitate timely education of eBuses into the transport system. Within 1 year, Delhi Govt aims to induct 35,000 e-vehicles and paving the way for 25 percent electric vehicles by 2024.
      Delhi EV policy addresses forward moving measures to give the EV industry a fillip in the right direction. Being a time bound and target-oriented policy would mean infra development at the same pace for policy goals to come to fruition, and offers over and above FAME II scheme.
      Customers who haven’t benefitted from central government’s subsidy scheme can avail subsidy under Delhi EV policy. The independent policy doesn’t run on exchequer money, and could set precedence for other states to follow suit. For now, Delhi EV policy doesn’t benefit lithium battery e-scooters with speeds upto 25km/hr. More