More stories

  • in

    March 2024 Week 5 Auto News Roundup – Mahindra, Hero, Bajaj, Renault-Nissan, Citroen, Maruti, Honda, Toyota, Kia, Xiaomi

    Mahindra Thar ArmadaXiaomi’s first EV, Thar 5-door launch date, Renault Duster comeback and Citroen Basalt Vision SUV Coupe grabbed headlines in the last week of March 2024Details about a number of upcoming launches were revealed this week. We also got to see new models being unveiled globally, which are relevant from the Indian perspective as well. Here’s a quick roundup of all the exciting news stories and updates from March 25 to March 30, 2024.Xiaomi’s first EV debutsXiaomi has launched its first EV, named SU7. Prices start at 215,900 yuan (Rs 24.92 lakh). It will rival Tesla Model 3 in China. There are other rivals as well such as BYD Seal, BYD Han, Xpeng P7i, Deepal SL03 and Nio ET5. Xiaomi SU7 EV has received massive 50,000 bookings in less than 30 minutes.Xiaomi SU7 EV LaunchNew Pulsar N125 or Dominar 125Recently, a new Bajaj bike was spotted on road tests. It could be Pulsar N125 or Dominar 125. The test mule had equipment that is usually seen with commuter bikes. For example, conventional telescopic forks and disc-drum brake combo.Bajaj Dominar 125 Vs Dominar 250Thar 5-door launch on 15th AugustAs may be recalled, the second-gen Thar 3-door model was launched on August 15th, 2020. Now, four years later, Mahindra will introduce the 5-door version of Thar on 15th August 2024. It will go up against Maruti Suzuki Jimny as well as upcoming products such as Force Gurkha 5-door and Jeep Wrangler Mini.Renault Duster to make a comebackRenault-Nissan has announced 4 new SUVs for India. It is likely that the Duster will make a comeback, along with its 7-seater version. Nissan-badged versions of these two SUVs will also be launched. Renault-Nissan is also working on two other new products for India. These could be EVs.Renault Duster For India and Nissan Version – TeaserCitroen Basalt Coupe SUV DebutsCitroen’s most premium product for the Indian market, the Basalt Vision Coupe SUV will take on the upcoming Tata Curvv. Some of the key highlights include an upright bonnet, a prominent grille, squared wheel arches and sloping coupe roofline. Power will come from the same 1.2-litre turbo-petrol engine, generating 110 PS of max power.Citroen Basalt CoupeHonda achieves 6 crore sales milestoneHMSI had started operations in the country in 1999. The first 1 crore milestone was achieved in 2012. HMSI has a diversified portfolio, starting with the 100cc Shine and including the luxurious 1800cc GoldWing Tour.Mercedes-Benz G-Class Facelift DebutsMercedes-Benz G-Class gets a mid-life facelift, with subtle changes to the front fascia. Equipment list has been upgraded with a wireless charging pad, keyless entry, heated and cooled cup holders and the latest MBUX system. Powertrains are updated with mild-hybrid systems for better efficiency.Mercedes-Benz G-Class Facelift DebutsKia Carens to get diesel manual variantsNew diesel manual variants of Kia Carens will be available across all trim levels. It is possible that Kia may discontinue iMT variants post the launch of diesel manual variants of Carens. Kia Carens diesel manual variants may be preferred by folks who want lower running costs.Force Gurkha 5-door incomingPrimary rivals of 5-door Force Gurkha will be Maruti Jimny and upcoming Mahindra Thar 5-door. The SUV is expected to use a 2.6-litre diesel engine. However, power output could be bumped up to match or exceed the performance of Jimny and Thar. Off-road kit includes a standard snorkel and front/rear locking differentials.2024 Force Gurkha 5 Door Spied In LadakhMG Comet Based 5 Door Electric SUVA 5-door electric SUV, Baojun Yep Plus will soon be available in China. It has a boxy profile and comes with 16-inch wheels. Baojun Yep Plus has a 75-kW electric motor, offering a range of 401 km (as per CLTC cycle). In India, Baojun Yep Plus could be launched as an MG-badged model.MG Comet Based 5 Door Electric SUVSuzuki Swift 4th-gen Model Unveiled in UKNew Maruti Suzuki Swift is expected to be launched in India soon. It gets a fresh new look and new features such as a 9-inch touchscreen. India-spec new Swift will be getting a new 1.2-litre 3-cylinder petrol engine. ADAS offered with the international-spec model may not be available in India.Suzuki Swift 4th Gen Model Unveiled For UKHonda City Facelift Hatch DebutsBoth cosmetic and functional updates are available with Honda City Hatchback facelift. There’s a new hybrid SV variant and new colours for RS models. Safety has been improved with addition of new ADAS features and electronic parking brake.2024 Honda City Facelift Hatch DebutsToyota Innova Hycross GX (O) AnnouncedHycross GX (O) will be the new top-spec non-hybrid variant of Innova Hycross. It gets new features such as a larger touchscreen, rear sunshade and automatic climate control. Both 7-seater and 8-seater options will be available.Toyota X-Van Concept PatentedToyota recently patented the design of their X-Van concept. It blends minivan practicality with SUV ruggedness. The design features boxy proportions, high ground clearance, and sliding doors. It is in line with the current trend of high-riding vehicles. It is possible that the X-Van could get a fully electric drivetrain.Toyota X-van Concept PatentedHero Mavrick 440 to be launched in UKIn the UK, Hero Mavrick 440 will be targeted at A2 license holders. Similar to the Indian market, Mavrick 440 will challenge rivals such as Triumph Speed 400 and Royal Enfield Bullet 350. Both these motorcycles are available under £5,000. A similar price point is expected for Mavrick in the UK. More

  • in

    Xiaomi SU7 EV Launch Price 216k Yuan (Rs 25 L) – 50,000 Bookings In 27 Minutes

    Xiaomi SU7 EV LaunchIn the Chinese market, one of the key rivals of Xiaomi SU7 EV will be Tesla Model 3Xiaomi has officially entered the automotive space with the launch of its first EV, the SU7 all-electric sedan, in China. A total of 3 variants are on offer, with prices starting at 215,900 yuan (approximately Rs 24.92 lakh). The EV is available for sale across 29 cities in China. Deliveries will commence in late April.Xiaomi SU7 EV – New beginningsVenturing into the automotive space is a significant milestone in the evolution of Xiaomi as a business enterprise. Before this time, one would normally associate Xiaomi as a leading consumer electronics firm.Xiaomi SU7 EV LaunchThe launch event of SU7 EV was hosted by Xiaomi’s CEO, Lei Jun. Some of the top leaders of competing firms were also present. It included He Xiaopeng, Chairman of Xpeng; William Li, CEO of Nio; and Li Xiang, CEO of Li Auto.Also present at the event was Chris Bangle, former BMW Group Chief of Design. He currently works as an auto design consultant for Xiaomi. Various other renowned executives are associated with the design and development of Xiaomi SU7 EV. It includes former BMW executive Li Tianyuan and former Mercedes-Benz executive James Qiu. With such brilliant minds at work, it is no surprise that the Xiaomi SU7 easily qualifies as one of the sportiest EVs in the market.Xiaomi SU7 EV LaunchXiaomi SU7 EV – DimensionsAt 4,997 mm long, 1,963 mm wide and 1,455 mm tall, Xiaomi SU7 EV has a dynamic road presence. It has a wheelbase of 3,000 mm. Frunk area has 105 litres of storage, whereas the boot offers 517 litres. In comparison, Tesla Model 3 is 4,720 long, 1,848 mm wide and 1,442 mm tall. It has a wheelbase of 2,875 mm. As is evident, Xiaomi SU7 EV is bigger than Tesla Model 3 across all dimensional aspects.Xiaomi SU7 EV LaunchXiaomi SU7 EV – Variants and PricingUsers can choose from Standard, Pro and Max Performance versions of Xiaomi SU7 EV. The Standard model is equipped with a 73.6 kWh BYD’s LFP Blade battery. It has a 400V architecture (486V). Offered in RWD format, the single electric motor generates 295 hp of max power and 400 Nm of peak torque. Certified CLTC range is 700 km. The Standard variant can load 350 km in just 15 minutes. It gets Xiaomi’s Pilot Pro ADAS suite, which is based on Pure vision, like Tesla. Xiaomi SU7 EV Standard model is priced at 215,900 yuan (Rs 24.92 lakh).Next is the Xiaomi SU7 Pro model, equipped with a 94.3 kWh CATL Shenxing battery (LFP). Much of the specs are the same as the Standard model. However, the range is higher at 830 km. It is priced at 245,900 yuan (approx. Rs 28.38 lakh).Xiaomi SU7 EV LaunchThe top-spec Xiaomi SU7 Max Performance variant utilizes a 101 kWh CATL Qilin (NMC) battery. With a dual-motor setup, the output is 663 hp and 838 Nm. CLTC range is 800 km. Top speed is rated at 265 km/H and 0 to 100 km/H can be achieved in just 2.78 seconds. This variant gets Xiaomi’s Pilot Max ADAS kit that includes Pure vision + lidar. Xiaomi SU7 Max Performance model is priced at 299,900 yuan (approx. Rs 34.61 lakh).Massive 50k bookings in just 27 minutesWith a comprehensive range of features and undercutting Tesla Model 3 by around 4,100 USD, Xiaomi SU7 has received a phenomenal response. Within 4 minutes, bookings had touched 10,000 units. This number doubled to 20,000 units in the next three minutes. The bookings crossed 50,000 units within 27 minutes. Clearly, the Xiaomi SU7 EV is a bestseller right from start. In China, Xiaomi SU7 will take on various other rivals such as BYD Seal, BYD Han, Xpeng P7i, Deepal SL03 and Nio ET5. More

  • in

    Hyundai Ioniq 5 N Awarded World Performance Car Of The Year

    Hyundai Ioniq 5 NWhen compared to its immediate rivals, Hyundai Ioniq 5 N packs the right balance of nostalgic design, impeccable dynamics and blistering performanceEver since its launch, Hyundai Ioniq 5 has not only grabbed eyeballs but has also gained a lot of recognition. More recently, Hyundai Motor Company has bagged yet another plaque at the 2024 World Car Awards. It was the Ioniq 5 N that facilitated this award in the World Performance Car section. This marks the fourth major victory for all-electric Ioniq 5 lineup.Hyundai Ioniq 5 N Awarded World Performance CarThis is not the first time Hyundai Ioniq 5 has made its presence known at the World Car Awards. Building on the past success on global stages, Hyundai Ioniq 5 N has bagged the World Performance Car award.This recent accolade for Hyundai Ioniq 5 N is in fact the fourth one that this retro-styled fully electric crossover SUV has added to its belt within the past three years since its debut. The high-performance N version was introduced in July 2023 and is a testament to Hyundai’s commitment to designing and developing driver-centric high-performance vehicles.Ioniq 5 N is also a shining beacon highlighting company’s relentless pursuit in motorsports and is proof of Hyundai’s engineering prowess. Continuing its winning streak at the World Car Awards in 2024, Hyundai’s Ioniq lineup has bagged as many as four World Car Award wins in the last three years.Hyundai Ioniq 5 NWorld Car Awards announced this year’s winners at the 2024 New York International Auto Show. World Car Awards is an annual event witnessing around 100 international jurors across as many as 29 countries who test-drive and rank eligible cars and position them winners in their nominated segment.In both 2022 and 2023 years, IONIQ 5 and IONIQ 6 models from Hyundai achieved three consecutive wins in the World Car, World Electric Vehicle, and World Car Design categories. The increasing nominations and wins at global platforms like World Car Awards further cement Hyundai’s position as a leading automaker.Ioniq 5 N is a specially designed vehicle aimed to take on the mighty Nurburgring. This electric crossover SUV packs an 84 kWh battery, powering two electric motors, one at each axle. Performance metrics include a maximum of 641 horses (N Grin Boost) and a top-speed of 260 km/h. Ioniq 5 N can sprint to 100 km/h in 3.4 seconds.Statement from Hyundai Motor Company“We are thrilled and honoured to receive the prestigious World Performance Car award for our IONIQ 5 N,” said Jaehoon Chang, President and CEO of Hyundai Motor Company. “This recognition is a testament to Hyundai’s commitment to pushing the boundaries of electric performance and innovation.It is truly gratifying to see our efforts rewarded with a total of seven World Car Awards titles in the last three years. We are proud to continue our winning streak and solidify Hyundai’s position as a leader in the global EV industry.” More

  • in

    MG Comet Based 5 Door Electric SUV (Jimny Rival) – New Photos, More Details

    MG Comet Based 5 Door Electric SUVIn the Indian market, Baojun Yep Plus could be launched as an MG-badged model without any major changesEarlier this year in January, Baojun had unveiled the Yep Plus 5-door electric SUV. It is a derivative of the Baojun Yep 3-door electric SUV sold in China, based on MG Comet. Baojun has now released a fresh set of images that provide new details about Yep Plus. Launch is expected soon.MG Comet Based Baojun Yep Plus – Exterior detailsJust like the 3-door Yep, the 5-door Yep Plus has a tall, boxy profile. The versatile design language ensures that Yep Plus finds acceptability across urban streets as well as off-road tracks. Features that are an instant draw include the unique design of the LED headlamps. They add a futuristic and distinctive touch to the SUV and complement its overall profile.MG Comet Based 5 Door Electric SUVThe automatic LED headlamps are also functionally relevant, as they provide enhanced illumination. A total of 184 LEDs beads work together to provide a low beam angle of more than 45°. High beam illumination is rated at 178 meters. Talking about colour options, users can choose from a total of five shades. It includes Cloud Sea White, Cloud Grey, Aurora Green, Azure Blue and Deep Space Black.Other key highlights include a rugged bumper, squared wheel arches, thick body cladding and blacked-out pillars. The SUV has body coloured door handles, functional roof rails and 16-inch low rolling resistance tyres. At 205 mm wide, the tyres are best in class and ensure optimal traction. Wheels are equipped with dual-piston callipers that ensure improved braking, thereby ensuring a safer travel experience.MG Comet Based 5 Door Electric SUVAt rear, Baojun Yep Plus has vertically positioned tail lamps and side opening tailgate. There’s plenty of boot space and the tailgate itself has pockets with 12 litres of storage. A lot more luggage and other items can be mounted on the roof rack.MG Comet Based 5 Door Electric SUVMG Comet Based 5 Door Electric SUV – DimensionsWith space to seat five passengers, Baojun Yep Plus is better suited for family needs. The SUV is 3,996 mm long, 1,760 mm wide and 1,726 mm tall. Wheelbase is 2,560 mm. Ground clearance is 150 mm in fully loaded condition. Turning radius is rated at 5.35 meters. In comparison, the 3-door Yep is just 3,400 meters long.Baojun Yep Plus – PerformancePowering Baojun Yep Plus 5-door electric SUV is a 75-kW electric motor. Details about the battery pack have not been revealed yet. It is likely that the SUV will be equipped with a Lithium Iron Phosphate (LFP) battery pack. Baojun Yep Plus is estimated to have a range of 401 km, as per CLTC standards. Both AC charging and DC fast charging options will be available.MG Comet Based 5 Door Electric SUVWith Baojun releasing the fresh set of images, launch is imminent. Starting price in China could be around 100,000 yuan, which is approximately Rs 11.54 lakh. In India, the MG-badged version could be offered in the price range of Rs 12 lakh to Rs 15 lakh. A high level of localization will help reduce cost and achieve a competitive price point. More

  • in

    March 2024 Week 4 Auto News Roundup – MG, Nissan, VW, Tata, Hyundai, Hero, Bajaj, TVS, Yezdi

    MG Comet Convertible ConceptAmong upcoming launches, Nissan Magnite facelift is one of the hottest, rivaling other sub 4m SUVs like Nexon, Brezza, Venue, Sonet, XUV300 and KigerThe fourth week of March 2024 is behind us leaving breadcrumbs of developments to pick up. These developments will lay steps for the automotive industry to evolve and shape the future. Without further ado, let’s dive into all the developments that took place last week.Nissan and Honda partnerNissan Honda PartnershipBoth automotive juggernauts have signed an MoU to navigate Indian automotive sector by pooling in resources and expertise. Together, the companies aim to better position their products by sharing technology and vision contributing to carbon neutrality and zero traffic fatalities.Speculated Volkswagen Taigun FaceliftVolkswagen Test Mule – Or Is It Skoda?Something is cooking at Skoda Auto Volkswagen India and the first test mule spotted recently shows the vehicle from the rear. It could be Skoda’s already announced sub 4m SUV. But the overall proportions, C-pillar shape and tail lights reminded me of Taigun, suggesting a facelift in the works. More details will be revealed with future spy shots.2025 Nissan Magnite Facelift SpottedNissan Magnite Facelift SpottedFor the first time ever, Nissan magnite facelift is spotted donning new set of wheels. While magnite helped Nissan stay afloat in India, Magnite facelift is poised to expand sales envelope. We hope it gets rain-sensing wipers, ventilated seats, auto-dimming IRVM and other missing features.MG Cyberster Stylish Scissor DoorsMG Cyberster, MG 4, MG 5, Comet Convertible and JV With JSWAt a recent event held in Mumbai, JSW Group and MG announced their joint venture and gave a glimpse of new JV’s future roadmap. The same event witnessed unveiling of MG Cybesrter electric sports car, MG 4 electric hatchback, MG 5 electric estate and MG Comet Convertible concept.Escudo Name Trademarked By SuzukiTorqnado Name Trademarked By SuzukiSuzuki Escudo and Torqnado Names TrademarkedInterestingly, Suzuki Motor Corporation has trademarked two new names in the form of Escudo and Torqnado in India. Going by Suzuki’s global naming strategies, Escudo could be used with the upcoming 7-Seater version of Grand Vitara. Suzuki Motor Corporation also holds trademarks for their motorcycles and Torqnado could be used on a 2W.BMW iX xDrive50 LaunchedBMW iX xDrive50 LaunchedAfter launching the iX xDrive40, BMW is bringing the more performant xDrive50 variant to Indian buyers via CBU route. The car is launched at a price of close to Rs. 1.4 Cr (ex-sh) and it rivals other electric mid-size SUVs from Mercedes-Benz, Audi and Jaguar.Citroen eC3 crash test – Global NCAPCitroen eC3 Scores 0 Crash Safety Rating From GNCAPThe CMP platform from Citroen was put to test by Global NCAP and awarded 0 Stars to eC3 electric hatchback. Something similar was reflected in the Latin NCAP crash test of a Brazilian-spec Citroen C3 ICE which got 0 Stars as well.VW Taigun GT Plus SportVolkswagen Taigun GT Plus Sport, GT Line LaunchedTaigun gets two more trim levels – GT Plus Sport and GT Line under the new ‘Sport’ trim plan. These bring cosmetic updates inside and out, lending a sporty appeal. GT Plus Sport only gets 1.5L engine and GT Line only gets 1.0L engine.Hyundai Creta and Verna recalledHyundai Verna and Creta RecallLast week, Hyundai recalled 7,698 units of Verna sedan and Creta SUV owing to a potential fault in the electronic controller unit governing the pump inside the CVT gearbox. Kia Sonet was recalled for the same issue a month ago.2024 Tata Tiago EV2024 Tata Tiago EV Update LaunchedWith a minor update, Tata Motors has made 2024 Tiago EV even more value for money than it already was. The company has done it by adding auto-dimming IRVM and a 45W fast USB charger at no additional cost. Nice!Honda WR-V Launched in JapanIndia-Made Honda Elevate Launched In Japan As WR-VStepping up their export game, HCIL (Honda Cars India Limited) has commenced shipping of Elevate to Japan where it is sold under the WR-V name. When compared to Indian pricing, WR-V in Japan is priced more attractively.Bajaj CNG Motorcycle Spied – Highest Mileage?Bajaj CNG BikeThe maker of iconic Pulsar motorcycles is exploring CNG powertrain options. Their upcoming CNG offering is in testing phase and was spotted recently. It could boast of being the most fuel-efficient motorcycle at launch and promise lowest running cost.Bajaj Pulsar N250 20242024 Bajaj Pulsar N250Sticking with Bajaj, the company is updating its Pulsar 250 models with latest features. Both N250 and F250 are likely to get these updates including a new digital instrument cluster with Bluetooth connectivity and USD front forks, among others.Yezdi Dealer Event ScoopsClassic Legends Dealer Event – Yezdi and BSA Launches, ScoopsOne of the attendees of Classic Legend’s recent dealer event revealed to us company’s future roadmap. Showcased motorcycles at the event were Roadking 334 Concept, Roadking 500 Concept, Streetfighter 334, Adventure Rally Pro and BSA Goldstar 650. Except for Roadking concepts, other motorcycles will launch by the end of this year. Scoops included 500cc and 250cc engine development along with EVs.Ather Rizta Water Wading TestAther Rizta Water Wading TestSet to break covers at Ather Community Day event on 6th April, new Rizta scooter is poised to take on rivals from Ola, TVS, Bajaj and Simple. Company demonstrated battery’s IP67 rating with a water-wading test.Vida Advantage Package Official BlurbHero Launched Vida Advantage PackageIn a bid to draw more electric scooter buyers towards them, Hero MotoCorp has introduced Vida Advantage Package worth Rs. 27,000. Customers buying Vida V1 scooter could opt for this package at no additional cost. The offer lasts till April 31st, 2024. You can read about Vida Advantage Package in detail here.TVS Ronin SCR Patented In IndiaTVS Ronin SCR Patented In IndiaRemember the four custom Ronin bikes displayed at TVS MotoSoul event last year? Of these four, the one designed by TVS Design Team has now been trademarked by the company raising launch speculations. Ronin SCR aims to be a Scramler with off-road worthy hardware.Honda Stylo 160cc Scooter Patented In IndiaHonda Stylo Scooter PatentedAmong the long list of patents and trademarks, Honda added one more. This time, it is Stylo 160 scooter design. Interestingly, this is not the new Stylo scooter that debuted last month. But, the older Stylo design. If launched, it will take on classic-styled scooters from Vespa and Yamaha.Hero Yulu Rival Design PatentedHero 2W Electric CV PatentedCurrently absent in commercial 2W EV segment, Hero MotoCorp is set to make a grand entrance. Company’s upcoming 2W electric CV was recently patented, revealing a bare-bones vehicle that seems to pack a larger battery for a higher range and slightly less cargo space.Hero Patented New ScooterHero New Large Scooter PatentedThe company has patented a new large-format family scooter that could either be an ICE offering or an EV. If EV, it could be positioned below the current Vida V1 lineup. If it is an ICE offering, it could be the new large scooter for the brand. Something Maestro currently is, but missing on company’s website. More

  • in

    2024 Tata Tiago EV Brings New Features – MG Comet EV Rival

    2024 Tata Tiago EV LaunchedAs opposed to pre-update model, 2024 Tata Tiago EV brings added features unlocking more safety and convenience, enhancing user experienceThe prospect of growing Indian auto sector is very tempting for car manufacturers to cater to. There is a growing interest in electric mobility sector as well, drawing Indian buyers. Tata Motors currently leads the electric car industry with almost 70% market share. The company’s most affordable EV, Tiago EV, has been updated for MY2024.2024 Tata Tiago EV Brings New FeaturesFor the year 2024, Tata Motors is updating its most affordable electric car in India. The update is very small and doesn’t drastically change the prospect of Tiago EV when compared to pre-update vehicles. However, this update brings a few conveniences and uplift in-cabin functionality.2024 Tata Tiago EV Added FeaturesThe best part about this update is that there doesn’t seem to be a price increment associated with it. A practice that we don’t get to see in Indian automotive sector very often. Apart from the functional and experience enhancing feature additions, there is one design change with 2024 Tata Tiago EV.Which is the new flat 2D Tata logo. We saw this flatter and more minimal 2D Tata logo on company’s newer launches like Punch EV. Instead of Tata’s usual chrome 3D logo, this is a 2D flat logo finished in white. This change is not immediately evident. But keener eyes will spot it easily.New Flat Logo On 2024 Tata Tiago EVOther changes are on the inside and with top-spec variants only. These include the addition of an auto-dimming IRVM, which is a major convenience factor. This adds to the overall safety quotient too, as this ORVM dims dazzling headlights from the rear automatically, which would otherwise distract the driver.Another feature addition on the inside is a fast 45W charger for smartphones. With the increase in technology, smartphone’s charging speeds have increased dramatically, rated at over 100W+. Even the flagship phones have been jumping to faster charging speeds and 45W straight out of the car’s socket is appreciated.New Flat Logo On 2024 Tata Tiago EVPowertrains remain the sameOther than these feature additions, there are no other significant differences. Trim levels continue as they used to be – XE, XT, XZ+ and XZ+ Tech Lux. Primary rivals include MG Comet EV and Citroen eC3 and Tata’s own Punch EV. Top-spec variants get features like cooled glovebox, an 8-inch touchscreen infotainment screen with Android Auto and Apple CarPlay, projector headlights, fog lights, rear washer and wiper, rear defogger, auto climate control, driving modes, 4 Star crash safety rating and many more.Powertrain options are offered in two bundles – 19.2 kWh battery, 60 bhp and 110 Nm motor, 250 km range or a 24 kWh battery, 74 bhp and 114 Nm motor, 315 km range. The latter can be had with a fast charger option bundled with a 7.2 kW AC charger.2024 Tata Tiago EV More

  • in

    MG4 and MG5 Electric Cars Showcased In India – Launch Soon?

    New MG5 Electric Showcased In IndiaPost their JV, JSW and MG Motor have chalked out aggressive plans for the Indian market in new energy vehicles (NEVs) segmentTo highlight their automotive prowess and provide a glimpse of upcoming vehicles, JSW MG Motor India Pvt Ltd. recently held a mega event in Mumbai. Among the EV models showcased were the MG4 hatch and the MG5 electric estate car. These are already available across international markets. MG4 and MG5 could be launched in India in the near future.MG4 electric hatch – Key features, specsMG Motor’s first fully electric hatch, the MG4 derives inspiration from the DNA of a sports car. At 4,287 mm long and 1,836 mm wide, MG4 is dimensionally comparable to the MG ZS EV. With its sporty, aerodynamic design, the MG4 has a strong road presence.New MG4 Electric Showcased In IndiaSome of the key highlights include sleek, sweptback headlamps, boomerang-styled fog lamp housings, slatted lower grille and a curvy, chiselled bonnet. Side profile is distinguishable with sporty alloy wheels, door cladding, blacked-out B and C pillars and body-coloured door handles. At the rear, MG4 has arrow-shaped wraparound tail lamps and a full-width LED light bar.Across international markets, a total of four trims of MG4 are on offer. The top-spec MG4 EV Trophy Extended Range is equipped with a 77-kWh battery pack. This variant generates 245 PS of max power and 350 Nm of peak torque. Accelerating from 0 to 100 km/h takes approximately 6.1 seconds.New MG4 Electric Showcased In IndiaCharging time varies based on the type of charger. With a standard 7kW fast charger, MG4 can achieve 10% to 100% in 10.3 hours. With a 150-kW public fast charger, 10% to 80% can be achieved in just 39 minutes. As per WLTP cycle, MG4 top-spec variant has a range of 323 miles (approx. 520 km). Take a look at the detailed gallery below.MG5 electric estate car – Key features, specsMG5 has a laidback profile, with signature features associated with a typical, old-school estate car. It is apparent that MG5 focuses on family-oriented aesthetics. Some of the key highlights include trapezoidal headlamps, triangular fog lamp housings, slatted lower grille and a classic bonnet design. Side profile is distinguishable with its slightly sloping roofline, functional roof rails and large alloy wheels. Tail lamps follow the design of the front headlamps and come with arrow-styled LED lighting.New MG5 Electric Showcased In IndiaDimensionally, MG5 is 4,600 mm long, 1,818 mm wide and 1,543 mm tall. It is comparable to upcoming electric versions of Mahindra XUV700 and Tata Harrier. Globally, there are two trims – MG5 EV SE Long Range and MG5 EV Trophy Long Range. Both share the same hardware such as a 61.1 kW battery pack.New MG5 Electric Showcased In IndiaPerformance numbers are 156 PS and 280 Nm. With a 150-kWh public rapid charger, 10% to 80% can be achieved in 35 minutes. The difference between the two variants is in the range. The SE Long Range delivers 250 miles (approx. 402 km), whereas the Trophy Long Range travels 235 miles (approx. 378 km).Both MG4 and MG5 have luxurious interiors and come with a comprehensive range of hi-tech features. While both have ADAS, MG4 gets a higher number of features in comparison to MG5. Users can access a variety of remote functions and connectivity features via the MG iSmart app, available for both MG4 and MG5. More

  • in

    Citroen eC3 Scores 0 Safety Rating In Global NCAP – Bodyshell Stable (Stellantis Statement)

    Citroen eC3 crash test – Global NCAPCitroen C3 Electric Receives Disappointing Crash Test Results in IndiaIn a recent crash test conducted by Global NCAP, the safety rating for the Citroen C3 electric, also known as eC3, has been revealed, stirring concerns about its safety features. Launched in India in February 2023, the Citroen C3 electric garnered attention for its eco-friendly design and innovative features. However, the crash test results paint a different picture, highlighting significant safety shortcomings.Citroen C3 Electric Crash Test ResultsAccording to Global NCAP, the Citroen eC3 scored a dismal 0-star safety rating for adult passengers and a mere 1-star safety rating for child passengers. Despite being equipped with dual front airbags, seat belt reminders, and belt load limiters, the model lacked crucial safety features, contributing to its poor performance in the crash tests.Citroen eC3 crash test – Global NCAPGlobal NCAP noted that while the body shell integrity during frontal impacts remained stable, the absence of features like Electronic Stability Control (ESC), Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS), ISOFIX, Side Airbags, and Knee Airbags undermined the overall safety rating. Additionally, the lack of side head protection made side pole impact testing impossible.In their assessment of adult safety, Global NCAP highlighted various deficiencies. Although the protection offered to the driver’s and passenger’s head and neck during frontal impacts was commendable, weak chest protection for the driver and poor chest protection for the passenger limited the rating to one star. Moreover, inadequate knee protection for the driver and unstable footwell areas further compromised safety.[embedded content]For child safety, Global NCAP observed that while the child seat for a 3-year-old installed forward-facing failed to prevent excessive forward exposure and head contact, side impact protection was satisfactory. However, concerns arose regarding the absence of three-point seat belts in all seating positions and insufficient Isofix positions as standard features.Consumer Awareness and Safety PrioritizationCommenting on the results, Global NCAP emphasized the importance of comprehensive safety measures in vehicles, especially in emerging markets like India. They urged manufacturers to prioritize safety features to protect both adult occupants and children in the event of a crash.Alejandro Furas, Global NCAP Secretary General said, “This is an appalling result from Stellantis. PSA was once a leader in safety, but now, as part of the Stellantis group, the manufacturer appears to have taken a major backward step. We hope that this apparent negative trend is corrected globally as a matter of urgency.”David Ward, Executive President of the Towards Zero Foundation said, “This result from Sellantis is of serious concern, not only for consumers in the Indian market but also for those in emerging economies around the world.”Manufacturer’s Response and Future ConsiderationsResponding to the crash test result, Stellantis has shared the following statement – “Stellantis confirms its vehicles comply with all current local market regulations and its commitment to safety with six airbags and additional safety features as standard across products in India during the second half of the year.” More