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      New MG Electric Hatchback Spied While Charging At A Hotel In Agra

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      New MG Electric HatchbackAcross international markets, MG Cloud EV is sold under the Wuling brand in Indonesia and as the Baojun Yunduo in ChinaPost the JV between MG Motor and JSW Group, the new entity has envisioned a major product onslaught for the Indian market. There are plans to launch new models every 3 to 6 months in India. Electric vehicles will be among the focus areas. One of the new upcoming products is the MG Cloud EV.MG Cloud EV spied in India – Key featuresWith its curvy, aerodynamic profile, the MG Cloud EV is naturally pleasing to the eyes. Furthermore, the unique design appeals to folks who are looking for exclusivity. Some of the key highlights include polygonal headlamp housings with automatic LED lights, full-width LED light strip on top and an appealing mesh-type lower grille.New MG Electric Hatchback – Cloud EVHat tip to automotive enthusiast Samarth Agarwal for the images. Side profile is distinguishable with blacked out B and C pillars, dual-tone rear view mirrors with integrated turn signals, unique 18″ Ferris-shaped alloy wheels and flushed door handles. At the rear, MG Cloud EV has eye-catching connected tail lamps, rear defogger and a powered tailgate.Dimensionally, MG Cloud EV is 4,295 mm long, 1,850 mm wide and 1,652 mm tall. It has a wheelbase of 2,700 mm. That’s slightly shorter than Ertiga’s 2,740 mm, but longer than Renault Triber’s 2,636 mm wheelbase. MG Cloud EV is underpinned by the E260 EV platform. There’s plenty of boot space (606 litres with Wuling Cloud EV), which can be further increased with the rear seats folded.New MG Electric Hatchback – Cloud EVMG Cloud EV – InteriorsWith intelligently designed interior spaces, MG Cloud EV offers ample legroom and headroom for all passengers. While the equipment list can vary from country to country, one can expect the India-spec model to offer a comprehensive range of comfort and convenience features.MG Cloud EV RearSome of the key highlights include soft touch interiors and ergonomic synthetic leather seats. There’s sofa mode with a 135° backseat recline, a large 15.6 TFT infotainment system and a fully digital instrument console.Other key features include rear AC vents, 360° surround-view camera system, digital AC with PM 2.5 filter, power windows and steering-mounted controls. There’s a wireless charger, keyless entry and smart start system and USB ports. A cocooned drive experience is guaranteed with a comprehensive range of safety features including ADAS. Users also have access to a wide range of connectivity features.MG Cloud EVMG Cloud EV – Range, performanceAcross international markets, MG Cloud EV is offered with two powertrain options. The one equipped with a 37.9 kWh battery pack has a range of 360 km. The higher-spec variant has a 50.6 kWh battery pack, offering a range of 460 km. MG could offer both options in India to target a larger segment of users.Upcoming MG Cloud EV will be using lithium iron phosphate batteries that will supply power to a permanent magnet synchronous motor. The EV will be available in front wheel drive format. MG Cloud EV could be launched later this year or sometime next year. It is expected to be offered at a starting price of around Rs 15 lakh.MG Cloud EV More

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      Maruti Ignis Electric 200 Kmph Top Speed – Fastest Indian Modified EV

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      Maruti Ignis Electric does 200 kmphPune based Northway Motors demonstrates 200 km/h top speed on EV converted Ignis indicated by car’s original speedoIgnis from Maruti Suzuki has been one of the cute little vehicles on sale in India. This car is the entry portal into their premium Nexa experience. Ignis is not exactly shattering sales charts and is currently maintaining sub 3K units. So, nothing interesting, right? But what if we told you someone converted it to run on electricity and made it go 200 kmph? Not so boring now, is it?Maruti Ignis Electric ModifiedIndia’s four-wheel juggernaut, Maruti Suzuki is known for its small and affordable hatchbacks that are easy on the wallet. While there are many Maruti cars following this ethos sold through Arena dealerships, there is only one for Nexa dealerships, the Ignis. With steady sub 3K sales, Ignis is currently India’s 11th best-selling hatchback.Maruti Ignis Electric does 200 kmphBut for Maruti Suzuki, sub 3K sales puts it at the bottom parts of the charts and is 13th best-selling Maruti car. For Pune-based Northway Motors, however, Maruti Ignis was a good donor car to retrofit one of their EV conversion kits. The company specializes in Retrofit EV conversion kits for Tata Ace, EV products and sales, custom OEM products and energy storage solutions.We’re not sure whether Northway Motors used the same EV conversion kit designed and developed for Tata Ace (Rs. 2.75 lakh excluding vehicle) or a custom solution. Regardless, the result is quite fascinating. As seen in the video, we can see a Maruti Suzuki Ignis converted to run on electric power donning green number plates.[embedded content]This EV conversion on Ignis is for R&D only and is tested in a controlled environment on a dynamometer and not on public roads. The conversion is done on a top-spec Ignis Alpha and the car gets green-painted alloy wheels to show its green credentials. Or to match the green registration plates.Maruti Ignis Electric does 200 kmphIgnis 200 kmph!As seen in the video, Northway Motors’ Maruti Ignis electric modified version is powered by a battery and a motor. EVs sold by almost every single OEM are equipped with a single-speed gearbox. Northway Motors, however, seems to have kept Ignis’ 5-speed gearbox for torque optimisation.Maruti Ignis Electric by Northway MotorsThe dyno run of this EV-converted Ignis shows good performance across all five pre-determined gear ratios. The headline figure of 200 km/h top speed is shown on the car’s original speedometer. Even if there is a variance, this is still impressive as it reveals the benefits of running a conventional gearbox with EVs as they tend to have a ratio close to 1 in their top gears or even an overdrive ratio. For OEMs, incorporating a conventional gearbox is more expensive, complicated and heavy. But for EV conversions, this could prove to be a good direction. More

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      April 2024 Week 4 Auto News Roundup – Maruti, Mahindra, Honda, Hyundai, Volkswagen, Tata, Toyota, Kia, Nissan, Bajaj, Ultraviolette, BMW, Jeep

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      April 2024 Week 4 Auto News RoundupFourth week of April 2024 witnessed updated model launches, new product unveils and new Global NCAP ratings for popular carsUpcoming products like the biggest Pulsar, Mahindra XUV 3XO and 5-door Thar (Thar Armada) continue to create interest among enthusiasts. Another key development was Global NCAP crash test results for Kia Carens, Honda Amaze and Mahindra Bolero Neo. Some new products were also launched during the fourth week of April 2024.New Maruti Baleno – Ashok MotorsBaleno tops premium hatch sales in FY24Maruti Baleno emerged as the top selling premium hatch in FY24. For the second spot, it was a close contest between Tata Altroz and Hyundai i10. Altroz was ahead by a thin margin of just 174 units. Toyota Glanza was placed in fourth place on the list.Mahindra XUV3XO MileageMahindra XUV 3XO new details emergeXUV 3XO is scheduled for launch on 29th April, 2024. Several new details have emerged such as the largest sunroof in the sub-4-meter SUV segment. XUV 3XO will offer fast acceleration, rated at 0 to 60 km/H in 4.5 seconds. Mileage will be 20.1 km/L.Honda ActivaHonda Activa leads with 43.15% market shareActiva has emerged as the top selling scooter in FY24. Total sales were at 22,54,537 units, registering a YoY growth of 4.88%. Second bestseller was TVS Jupiter, followed by Suzuki Access, TVS Ntorq and Ola S1.VW Taigun GT LineTaigun GT Line, GT Plus Sport launchedNew variants of Volkswagen Taigun have been introduced – Taigun GT Line and Taigun GT Plus Sport. These are priced in the range of Rs 14.08 lakh to Rs 18.53 lakh. Along with an improved driving experience, these new Taigun variants get complimentary 4-year Service Value Package (SVP).Toyota Fortuner Leader EditionNew Fortuner Leader Edition debutsFor the Asian market, Toyota has introduced a new Fortuner Leader Edition. It gets some new design updates and customizations. It will use the same 2.8-litre turbo diesel engine that generates 200 bhp and 500 Nm. Transmission choices include 5-speed manual and 6-speed automatic. Only 4×2 RWD format is available with Fortuner Leader.Car Exports FY 2024Maruti tops FY24 car exportsWith 41.77% market share, Maruti has topped car exports in FY24. Hyundai is the second largest car exporter, with a market share of 24.28%. At number three is Kia, with market share of 7.75%. Volkswagen is fourth, followed by Nissan, Honda, Toyota, Renault, Mahindra and Jeep.Image – Atharva DhuriDzire tops sub-4-meter sedan sales in FY24Maruti Dzire registered sales of 1,64,517 units in FY24. At number two was Hyundai Aura, with sales of 55,215 units. Honda Amaze was third (36,017), followed by Tata Tigor (26,921) in fourth place.Kia Carens crash tested – Global NCAP 2024Kia Carens Global NCAP resultsCarens latest model has been tested by Global NCAP. It has scored 3-star in Adult safety and 5-star in Child safety. Carens has received 22.07 out of 34.00 in Adult safety and 41 out of 49.00 in Child safety.Honda Amaze Crash Test – Global NCAP April 2024Honda Amaze 2 Star Global NCAP ratingIn the latest crash tests, Honda Amaze has received a 2-star rating for Adult safety. Points scored are 27.85 out of 34.00. Child safety rating is zero, with a score of 8.58 out of 49.00 points. Honda said that the low score is primarily due to lack of specific equipment such as side curtain airbags and electronic stability control.Mahindra Bolero Neo Crash Test – Global NCAP April 2024Bolero Neo 1 Star Global NCAP ratingPoints scored are 20.26 out of 34.00 in Adult safety, which leads to 1-star safety rating for Bolero Neo. For Child safety also, the rating is 1 star. Points scored is 12.71 out of 49.00. Across both ratings, the low scores are primarily due to the absence of specific safety equipment.Nissan Sold 1 Lakh MagniteNissan Magnite achieves 1 lakh sales milestoneOne of the consistent performers in the sub-4-meter SUV segment, Nissan Magnite has achieved the 1 lakh sales milestone. It has registered sales of 30k+ units per year for the third consecutive financial year. Magnite is also exported to multiple overseas markets.Top 10 Two Wheelers FY24 Vs FY23Splendor tops FY24 motorcycle salesA total of 32,93,324 units of Splendor were sold in FY24. Splendor commanded a market share of 26.52 percent. At number two in the list is Honda Shine, followed by Bajaj Pulsar, Hero HF Deluxe and Bajaj Platina.2024 Bajaj Pulsar N160Pulsar N160 gets USD forksBajaj has introduced the updated Pulsar N160 at a starting price of Rs 1.39 lakh. One of the key updates is USD forks, which will ensure improved control and handling. Other updates include LED indicators and sportier graphics.Honda Elevate is sold as WRV in JapanHonda Elevate emerges bestseller in JapanIn Japan, Honda Elevate is on sale as the new WR-V. Within a month of launch, bookings have crossed 13,000 units. In comparison, Elevate in India had registered 20k bookings in just 100 days post launch.2024 Bajaj Pulsar 2202024 Bajaj Pulsar 220 updatedNew 2024 Pulsar 220 has started arriving at dealerships. Key updates include a fully digital instrument cluster. It has Bluetooth connectivity for basic phone functions. A USB charging socket has been added in the dashboard area. 2024 Bajaj Pulsar 220 also gets new colours and graphics.Ultraviolette F77 Mach 2 LaunchedUltraviolette F77 Mach 2 debutsUltraviolette has launched the F77 Mach 2 at a starting price of Rs 2.99 lakh. The top-spec Recon variant is available at Rs 3.99 lakh. Both variants have a top speed of 155 km/H. 0 to 60 km/H can be achieved in just 2.8 seconds.BMW i5 M60 xDrive PluggedBMW i5 M60 xDrive launchedBMW has launched the i5 M60 xDrive at Rs 1.20 crore. Across international markets, BMW i5 M60 xDrive takes on rivals such as Tesla Model 3, Audi e-Tron GT, Porsche Taycan and EQE sedan from Mercedes-Benz. BMW i5 M60 xDrive will come to India via CBU route.2024 Jeep Wrangler Launched2024 Jeep Wrangler LaunchedUpdated 2024 Jeep Wrangler is available at a starting price of Rs 67.65 lakh. The trim levels of Unlimited and Rubicon have been retained. The updated kit includes new off-road equipment and new safety features.Mahindra Thar ADASThar 5-door spotted with ADASA test mule of Mahindra Thar 5-door was recently spotted with an ADAS camera setup. ADAS features for Thar 5-door could be similar to that of XUV700. The SUV will also be getting other premium features such as six airbags, 360° camera, front parking sensors and all-4 disc brakes.BYD Ocean M Hot HatchBYD Ocean M Hot Hatch Concept unveiledBYD’s upcoming hatchback based on the Ocean M Hot Hatch Concept will take on rivals such as MG4 and VW ID.3. It will go on sale in China in Q3. BYD will also be looking to introduce the hatch across European markets.Honda Ye S7 and Ye P7 UnveiledHonda Ye S7 and Ye P7 revealedEnthusiasts recently got to see the first real-world images of Honda Ye S7 and Ye P7 compact electric SUVs. These are expected to be launched in China later this year. Both SUVs will be getting a comprehensive range of premium features.Upcoming Bajaj Chetak Cheaper Variant SpiedChetak affordable variant incomingBajaj recently showcased a cheaper version of Chetak to its dealers. As subsidies are getting axed, OEMs are introducing affordable versions to push sales. The same approach is being followed for Chetak. The affordable version of Chetak is expected to be launched at under Rs 1 lakh.New Kia SonetSonet sales cross 4 lakh unitsIn a time period of under 44 months, Kia Sonet has crossed the sales milestone of 4 lakh units. As may be recalled, the SUV was launched in September 2020. Data shows that 63% of customers have opted for sunroof variants.Toyota BZ3C UnveiledToyota showcases two new EVsAt the Beijing Auto Show, Toyota has unveiled the BZ3C and BZ3X EVs. These will be produced by FAW Toyota and GAC Toyota, respectively. Launch in China is expected in 2025. Both SUVs get Lidar module, along with various other premium features. Powertrain details have not been revealed.Toyota BZ3X Unveiled More

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      Toyota Unveils Two New EVs – Launch Expected In 2025

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      Toyota BZ3C UnveiledShowcased at the 2024 Beijing Auto Show, the BZ3C and BZ3X EVs will be manufactured by FAW Toyota and GAC Toyota, respectivelyAs part of its plans to expand its EV portfolio, Toyota is working on two new EVs – BZ3C and BZ3X. These are expected to be launched in China next year. While powertrain details have not been revealed, enthusiasts were able to explore the exteriors and interiors of these EVs at the Beijing Auto Show.Toyota BZ3C – An urban marvelAs may be recalled, the BZ3 name was announced in China in October 2022. It was planned to be Toyota’s first electric sedan. The powertrain for BZ3 was to be developed via a joint collaboration between Toyota and BYD. With the BZ3C now unveiled, it appears that the original name has been transferred for a new line of EVs.Toyota BZ3C ProfileToyota BZ3C is essentially the production version of BZ Sport Crossover Concept that was showcased at the 2023 Shanghai Auto Show. Remarkably, there are very few changes in BZ3C in comparison to the concept. Most of the features have been retained, although some trimming may be done in the production model.As of now, only a few features have been changed. For example, side view cameras seen with the concept have been replaced with more conventional rear-view mirrors. Also, the lower lip at the front is not as sharp as seen in the concept model.Toyota BZ3C InteriorsBZ3C InteriorsBZ3C’s front fascia looks absolutely stunning with a full-width, C-shaped light cluster and a curvy, sculpted bonnet. Some of the features have similarities with Prius, such as the sleek, elegant bumper. Both the BZ3C and BZ3X are equipped with Lidar mounted on the roof. BZ3C has a crossover design and feels like an electric version of Toyota C-HR.Side profile is quite impactful with large, low-drag alloy wheels and flush door handles. At the rear, the prominent spoiler lip adds to the EVs sporty persona. The lighting setup at the rear is similar to that at the front.Toyota BZ3C DashboardInside, BZ3C has a mesmerizing racy red theme. It is accentuated with yellow LED lighting across the dash, doors and central console. There’s a large touchscreen infotainment system and a digital instrument cluster. BZ3C will be manufactured by FAW Toyota, a joint venture between China-based FAW Group and Toyota.Toyota BZ3X UnveiledToyota BZ3X – Classic eleganceBZ3X is essentially the production version of BZ FlexSpace Concept that was unveiled last year. As compared to the BZ3C, the BZ3X has more conventional vibes. It makes a powerful street presence and seems to focus on space and utility. The relatively sober profile indicates that this model could be closer to production.Toyota BZ3X ProfileSome of the key highlights of BZ3X include full-width LED DRLs on top, lower mounted LED headlamps and prominent bumper. Side profile has thick body cladding, large spoke-styled alloy wheels, flush door handles and blacked-out roof and pillars. At the rear, key highlights include a full width lighting setup and chunky bumper.Toyota BZ3X InteriorsInside, BZ3X gets a large touchscreen, a compact instrument cluster and a massive sunroof. The BZ3X EV will be manufactured by GAC Toyota. It is a joint venture between China-based GAC Group and Toyota.Toyota BZ3X Dashboard More

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      Honda Ye S7 And Ye P7 Real-World Images Out – Electric Compact SUVs

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      Honda Ye S7 and Ye P7 UnveiledBoth Honda Ye S7 and Ye P7 are similar where hardware is concerned and are largely the same vehicles, but differ in stylingFirst real-world images of Honda’s newest Ye eSUV lineup for China have been revealed from the stage. These cars were recently unveiled and are expected to go on sale in China by the end of 2024. These vehicles feature an almost identical profile along and interiors while differing in fascia and rear section for unique stylistic propositions.Honda Ye S7 And Ye P7 Real-World Images OutRemember Honda e:NS2 and e:NP2 concept vehicles that Honda showcased at 2023 Shanghai Auto Show? They were supposed to evolve into production-spec models by mid 2024 and launch by the end of 2024. Right on time, Honda has translated e:NS2 and e:NP2 concepts into Ye S7 and Ye P7 electric SUVs respectively.Honda Ye S7 FasciaHonda Ye S7 RearDesign themes from showcased concepts have successfully made it to production-spec vehicles. In this sense, Honda Ye S7 gets a much more sporty design and appeal with arrow-like Y-shaped DRL elements at the front and back. Just like e:NS2 concept. Horizontal slats in lower grill and connecting LED DRL from e:NS2 have made it to Ye S7 as well.Wheels from concept vehicle have made it to production too, which is a 5-spoke design with punched-in-like cut-outs. Instead of ORVMs, we get cameras. Door handles are flush to the body. to increase aerodynamic efficiency. Overall silhouette is quite strong and adheres to tough SUV aesthetics with a slight sloping roofline.Honda Ye P7 FasciaHonda Ye P7 RearWhere Ye S7 positions itself as the sporty offering, Ye P7 appears to be far more sophisticated, mature and premium. While side profile and wheel designs are identical, fascia and rear section differ vastly. Ye P7 sticks to classic Honda design elements with a thick bar connecting the headlights. Just like in e:NP2 concept.Headlights and tail lights get C-shaped LED elements that look nice and premium. Lower grill is a lot more conservative and finished in gloss black. Rear tailgate is different from what we saw in Ye S7 and is less angular and a lot more soothing. Same goes for roof spoiler rear bumper and other attributes. New Honda logo and illuminated HONDA lettering on front fenders were common between the two.Honda Ye S7 profileHonda Ye P7 profileFresh new interiorHonda Ye S7 and Ye P7 have the same interiors but different finishes and colour schemes. While Ye S7 gets white on a light grey colour scheme, Ye P7 gets a darker colour scheme that exudes sportiness. The three-spoke steering wheel gets HONDA lettering in the middle. Overall layout is smart.There are two displays for rear view camera feed – one on each door. The instrument screen is sleek and wide, lending a sportscar vibe, whereas the centre infotainment screen is massive. We like the new design direction that Honda’s interiors are taking. Except for the larger display and fewer buttons, this is a well-thought-out cabin.Honda Ye S7 InteriorHonda Ye P7 InteriorBuilt on W platform, Honda is offering both single-motor RWD and dual-motor AWD layouts with batteries from CATL. It has to be noted that Ye S7 is sold by Dongfeng Honda and Ye P7 is sold by GAC Honda. Both are China-only as of now with possibilities to break out of the dragon land in the future.Also read – Honda Amaze scored 2 Stars in GNCAPYe S7 Image source Ye S7 Image source More

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      BYD Ocean M Hot Hatch Concept Debuts – Launch Likely From $20k (Rs 17 L)

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      BYD Ocean M Hot Hatch. Images – BYD FanExpected to be available for sale in China in Q3, the production version will take on rivals such as MG4 and Volkswagen ID.3At the Beijing Auto Show, BYD has taken the wraps off the Ocean M hot hatch concept. With its sporty profile and an extravagant body kit, the concept looks absolutely stunning. Post launch in China, the production model is likely destined for European markets.BYD Ocean M Concept – Key FeaturesSome design elements that are an instant draw include the massive splitter at front, large sill extensions, GT3-style diffuser and high-rise rear spoiler. The production variant won’t be getting these features, but still, the electric hatchback will continue to have a significantly attractive profile.BYD Ocean M Hot HatchOcean M concept’s front fascia seems to derive inspiration from the Lamborghini Aventador. But such similarities may be diluted in the production version. The same could be true for the camera-based door mirrors, at least for the base variant. The rising waistline adds more dynamism to the hatch and enhances its road presence.Ocean M’s aerodynamic body panelling, sleek headlamps with integrated LED DRLs, sporty alloy wheels, thick body cladding, flush-type door handles and blacked-out roof and pillars make the electric hatch a wondrous looking car. At rear, the EV gets funky wraparound tail lamps with interconnected LED panelling in a pleasing wave format.[embedded content]While interiors have not been revealed, one can expect the electric hatch to offer a comprehensive range of premium features. Some of the key features could include a large touchscreen infotainment system, a digital instrument console, dual-tone interiors, vegan leather seats, etc.BYD Ocean M Hot HatchIt also gets panoramic sunroof, premium sound system, wireless charging and wireless Android Auto and Apple CarPlay. With Europe on the target, BYD will ensure that Ocean M gets 5-star ratings in Euro NCAP crash tests. Safety kit will include a comprehensive range of advanced features including ADAS.BYD Ocean M specs, performanceIn the company’s lineup, BYD Ocean M will be placed between the Dolphin hatch and Seal sedan. Speculations suggest that the production model will spawn a hot hatch version as well. It will be equipped with a rear-wheel drive setup.BYD Ocean M Hot HatchBYD has stated that Ocean M will be based on a new electric architecture. Existing popular BYD cars like Dolphin and Seal are based on e-Platform 3.0. The new platform for Ocean M could be the next-gen e-Platform 4.0. Improvements are expected around aesthetics, safety, efficiency and intelligence.While powertrain options have not been revealed, BYD Ocean M will be fun to drive. However, BYD could be focusing more on range rather than going after the best-performer tag. Just like other BYD cars, the Ocean M will be offered at a competitive price point. While BYD-Tesla battles are often highlighted, BYD is also focused on ending the ICE age. The production version of Ocean M could be launched in the price range of $20,700 to $27,600 (Approx. Rs 17.24 lakh to Rs 22.98 lakh). More

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      BMW i5 M60 xDrive Launched In India – Costs Rs. 1.2Cr, Goes 100Km/h In 3.8s

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      BMW i5 M60 xDrive LaunchedGlobally, BMW i5 rivals the likes of Porsche Taycan, Audi e-tron GT, Tesla Model 3 and EQE sedan from Mercedes-BenzLegacy German luxury and performance car manufacturer, BMW, launched its 6th electric offering in India in the form of BMW i5 M60 xDrive. Based on the 8th Gen BMW 5 Series, i5 M60 xDrive incorporates all the necessary attributes from ‘M’ division and blends them with sustainability of ‘I’ division.BMW i5 M60 xDrive Launched In IndiaRepresenting BMW’s relentless pursuit of creating ultimate driving machines, Indian EV space has been graced with the launch of i5 M60 xDrive. This is a CBU and is launched in India in the sole M60 xDrive variant. Pricing for BMW i5 M60 xDrive is Rs. 1,19,50,000 (ex-sh) and it comes with a standard 2 year or unlimited km warranty. Battery gets 8 year or 1,60,000 km warranty.BMW i5 M60 xDrive FasciaThere is an Alpine White non-metallic colour. Metallic shades include M Brooklyn Grey, M Carbon Black, Cape York green, Phytonic Blue, Black Sapphire, Sophisto Grey, Oxide Grey, Mineral White. Individual paintworks are offered too and these include Frozen Portimao Blue, Frozen Deep Grey, Frozen Pure Grey and Tansanite Blue.As standard, interior trim options on BMW i5 M60 xDrive is in Carbon Fibre with Alcantara / Veganza | Black upholstery options. Upgrades to upholstery are in the form of Veganza and Leather Merino. Overall exterior design is typical 5 Series and highlights with i5 M60 xDrive are the illuminated BMW Kidney Grills, adaptive LED headlights, vertical LED DRL signatures, L-shaped rear tail lights, M spoiler and 20-inch M-light alloy wheels among others.BMW i5 M60 xDrive DesignBMW is known for its beautifully put-together and meticulously crafted interiors. i5 M60 is not different. On the inside, we get generous space and modern functionality, both of which are expected from a 5 Series based vehicle. Layered dashboard and BMW curved displays grab all the attention.These screens run on M specific displays. Notable interior attributes are carbon fibre trims, massive panorama skyroof, sports seats with active seat ventilation function at the front, classic 3-spoke M leather steering wheel and 18 speakers with 655W Bowers & Wilkins speakers among others. Sports seats are standard, but buyers can opt for comfort seats too.BMW i5 M60 xDrive PluggedPerformanceConsidering we are talking about a BMW, performance is the juiciest part and i5 M60 xDrive doesn’t disappoint. We get two highly integrated electric drive units – one for each axle. The exhilarating performance metrics include a 230 km/h top speed and an insane 0-100 km/h sprint in 3.8 seconds.This performance is enabled with the help of two electric motors an AWD layout with a total system output of 601 bhp and 795 Nm. These motors draw power from an 81.2 kWh battery pack promising a WLTP range of 516 km on a single charge. BMW offers a complementary 11 kW wall box AC charger and a 22 kW AC charger is offered as an option.BMW i5 M60 xDrive SpecsStatement from BMW Group IndiaMr. Vikram Pawah, President, BMW Group India said, “With the first-ever BMW 15 M60 xDrive, you can expect nothing short of a completely electrifying experience. It brings together the legacy of eight generations of the sportiest executive sedan the ‘5’, adrenaline laden performance of ‘M’ and the sustainability of ‘I’.As the sixth electric offering from BMW Group India, the BMW 15 M60 xDrive will further reinforce our leadership in the Indian luxury electric mobility segment. With uncompromised performance that defines exhilaration for the modern era, it is an experience engineered for unbridled excitement and unparalleled thrills.” More

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      Hyundai Electric SUV (Creta EV?) Production Starts End 2024 – Group Plant Capacity To Increase To 15 Lakh

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      Hyundai Creta N LineHyundai’s first local EV will be Creta EV, already spotted testing, and production will commence by the end of 2024 at their Chennai plantAhead of its 30th anniversary in 2026, Hyundai Motor India is already coining its 2030 strategy. The slogan for 2030 strategy is ‘Innovator in Mobility and Beyond’. Hyundai’s subsidiary, Kia India, has also overhauled its operations to promote quantitative and qualitative growth through company’s ‘Kia 2.0’ strategy.Hyundai Kia India Plants Capacity To Touch 15 LakhIn that regard, Hyundai Motor Group Executive Chair Euisun Chung visited India to review the company’s mid-to-long-term mobility strategies for the future. This is the first time the Executive Chair has held an overseas town hall meeting outside of South Korea. Also present in the meeting were key executives from Hyundai Motor including Jaehoon Chang, President and CEO of Hyundai Motor Company, and Unsoo Kim, Managing Director and CEO of Hyundai Motor India.Hyundai Motor Group Executive Chair Euisun Chung Visits IndiaThe meeting concluded a manufacturing advance in the rapidly growing Indian automotive market. The aim is to establish an annual production capacity of around 1.5 million vehicles combining both Hyundai and Kia brands in India. A key facilitator of this plan will be expansion of EV lineup and create an EV ecosystem to accelerate customer uptake.The commencement of production at Hyundai’s recently acquired Pune plant (from GM) last year will play a major role in achieving their goals. Company is currently making improvements towards Pune plant and establishing a production hub capable of 2 lakh units annually. Production is estimated to start in second half of 2025.Hyundai India Plant, Chennai. Image for reference.Combining Pune plant’s 2 lakh capacity with Chennai plant’s current production capacity of 8.24 lakh units, Hyundai Motor is looking at an annual production capacity of over 10 lakh (1 million) units. Kia India’s annual production capacity is set to be expanded to 4.31 lakh units by the first half of 2024. Combining Kia’s numbers, Hyundai Motor Group is looking at an annual production capacity of 15 lakh per annum (1.5 million).Hyundai Creta Electric SpiedHyundai Kia local-made EV onslaughtElectric vehicles will play a crucial role in the company’s growth ambitions. Hyundai aims to launch its first locally produced EV in Indian market in 2025. This is likely to be Creta EV which is already spotted testing on multiple occasions. Mass production of its first local electric SUV (Creta EV) will commence by the end of 2024 at Hyundai’s Chennai plant.The company aims to expand EV portfolio to incorporate five new EVs by 2030. The holistic approach by Hyundai Motor India towards EVs will result in expanding EV charging infrastructure by 2030. Not just Hyundai, Kia is keen to make a splash in Indian EV space with their first local EV slated to hit production in 2025 with more to break covers in the future.Kia Clavis SpiedRecently, Hyundai and Kia signed an MoU with Exide, a leading Indian battery company, in a bid to pursue local manufacturing of batteries that will power dedicated EVs for India.Statement from Hyundai Motor IndiaDuring the meeting, Executive Chair Chung said “Hyundai Motor India has been pivotal in driving the growth of the Hyundai Motor Group, having navigated through numerous challenges including the COVID19 pandemic, global economic crises, and supply chain disruptions due to semiconductor shortages. We take pride in consistently securing the second-largest market share in this vibrant market and will continue to elevate Hyundai as a premium brand.“India is among the fastest-growing economies globally, and as this growth continues the strategic importance of Hyundai Motor India will only increase. By leveraging our strong reputation and competitive quality in India, we aim to expand exports to neighbouring countries, making India the global export hub to boost our regional market competitiveness.”Speaking about the company’s electrification strategy, Executive Chair Chung said, “We will develop EVs tailored to the Indian market and expand EV infrastructure in the region. We will lead the next generation of mobility in India, playing a key role in electrification, and we will continue to elevate Hyundai as a premium brand.” More