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      March 2024 Week 3 Auto News Roundup – Mahindra, Jeep, Bajaj, Yezdi, Kia, Maruti, MG

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      Hyundai Creta N Line ReviewSome of the most interesting auto news last week were Kia Clavis, Yezdi new bike, upcoming Bajaj CNG bike, new SUVs from Jeep and othersWeek 3 into March 2024, automotive industry has seen quite a few developments. Most of these developments are likely to make a significant impact on Indian automotive market in their respective segments. Auto news related to 4W vehicles were more in number than 2W vehicles. Let’s take a look at all the developments.Bajaj CNG Motorcycle Spotted Testing: Image – Zigwheels1. Bajaj CNG Bike SpottedStarting with 2W vehicles, Bajaj Auto testing a new CNG motorcycle is one of the hottest news from last week. The motorcycle was spotted testing with full camouflage. Interestingly, it was being benchmarked against a Platina. Alloy wheels, tubeless tyres, a very long seat, front disc brake option are some of the notable elements.Image for reference only2. TVS Trademarked Names For Electric XLIn a strategic move, TVS is setting foot in commercial electric 2W vehicle. The company intends to bring an electric version of XL 100 ICE on sale in India. It will lock horns with recently launched Kinetic e-Luna. TVS has trademarked the names XL EV and E-XL. One of these names will adorn this upcoming vehicle.Kawasaki Ninja 7 Hybrid3. Kawasaki Ninja 7 Hybrid, Z E-1 Patented In IndiaTeam Green is set to expand its Indian portfolio with electric or electrified vehicles or both. In that regard, the company has patented designs of Ninja 7 Hybrid and Z E-1 in India. Considering Ninja 7 Hybrid shares its powertrain with Ninja 500 and Eliminator, it has better chances of a launch.Triumph 400 New Custom Colour Launch4. Triumph 400 Custom ColoursSpeed 400 and Scrambler 400X owners can now get a lot more colour options to satisfy their appetite for uniqueness. At dealership end, Triumph 400 owners can get their prized possession with custom colours at an added cost.New Yezdi Motorcycle Showcased5. Yezdi New MotorcycleThis is the most interesting 2W news from last week. At a dealership meeting held by Classic Legends, there were four Yezdi motorcycles showcased on stage. Among these four, one Yezdi motorcycle has been leaked and it features lower-end equipment like rear mono-shock, single exhaust and dual analog instrument clusters. It will rival Honda and Royal Enfield bikes.Hyundai Creta N Line Launched6. Hyundai Creta N Line LaunchedFor the first time in India, Creta is getting a sportier N Line version. The same was launched last week at a starting price of Rs. 16.82 lakh (ex-sh, introductory). The company promises sporty credentials over regular Creta. Rushlane’s first impression review on Creta N Line went live recently and you can read it here.Mahindra XUV 7XO, 5XO, 3XO, 1XO Names Registered7. Mahindra 1XO, 3XO, 5XO and 7XO Names TrademarkedIndia’s de-facto SUV manufacturer is cooking a whole new lineup under its XUV umbrella. These could be an all-electric lineup from Mahindra. Considering Mahindra has an E in the name of its upcoming electric SUVs, the O in the new name trademarks might mean Outdoor. Safer bet would be EVs, though.Mahindra XUV.e9 ful dash touchscreen and Frunk Area8. Mahindra XUV.e9 Frunk Captured On VideoSticking with Mahindra, we can’t go a week without spotting at least one XUV.e prototype. Last week was not different. New revelation is XUV.e9’s front trunk area (Frunk) captured on video. When launched, Mahindra could implement a rather shallow, but wide and long frunk. The triple-screen dashboard is another highlight.Maruti Suzuki eVX New Infotainment Screen9. Maruti Suzuki eVXCompany’s first-ever electric car is due to launch and ahead of that happening, new details have been surfacing from various spy shots. Charging port is on the front left quarter panel. On the inside, there seems to be a larger free-standing display than the current 9-inch unit.Mahindra Thar 5-door Vs Jeep Wrangler – Size10. Jeep Has Two Cars IncomingThere is very interesting and hot news from the house of Jeep. For starters, Jeep is rumoured to diversify its portfolio to include a fitting rival to Hyundai Creta and other compact SUVs. This vehicle will be based on cost effective Citroen C3 Aircross’ CMP platform. Second vehicle from Jeep is a ladder-frame Thar rival SUV. A mini Wrangler!Mahindra Thar Armada11. Mahindra Thar Launch DetailsSpeaking of Thar, Mahindra is likely to launch 5-Door model (Thar Armada) on 15th August 2024. Rushlane’s sources revealed that the company intends to only offer the 4X4 versions of Thar Armada at launch, while 4X2 RWD models will launch later.Mahindra XUV300 Facelift Convoy of Test Mules12. Mahindra XUV300 New DetailsRecently, Mahindra XUV300 facelift testing has sharpened. The company’s test mule convoy now included base, mid and top spec trim levels of upcoming XUV300 facelift at once. We could see how Mahindra is offering different wheels designs with base, mid and top trims.Lexus LM for India13. Lexus LM 350h LaunchedLuxury minivan segment has been witnessing more acceptance in India. Toyota’s Vellfire minivan is now spawning a Lexus version in the form of 350h. The launch price is at a premium, costing between Rs. 2 crores and Rs. 2.5 crores.MG Excelor EV Logo Trademarked14. MG Excelor EV TrademarkedAfter a strategic price revision and trim overhaul, MG is keen on launching two new vehicles in India. After Gloster facelift, MG is expected to launch an electric car and this vehicle could take the recently trademarked Excelor EV name. Unlike other car names from MG, there is no British aircraft with the name Excelor.Kia Clavis SUV India Testing Starts : Image – Acko Drive15. Kia Clavis Testing Commenced In IndiaInternally codenamed AY, Kia Clavis is set to launch in India sometime next year. The company commenced testing in Indian market recently. Clavis will measure around the same as Kia Soul. So, a length between 4.1 to 4.2m is highly likely. It will be positioned above Sonet and below Seltos. More

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      Hyundai Creta EV Spied In S Korea – Launch Expected In Q3, CY2024

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      New Hyundai Creta EV. Image – Auto SpyUpcoming Creta EV will be based on the facelift model and is expected to get an extended range of premium featuresUsing existing popular brand names can help achieve a smooth transition from ICE to EV. There are some good examples such as Nexon EV and Tiago EV. Following a similar approach, Hyundai will be launching the Creta EV later this year. It will challenge rivals such as MG ZS EV, Mahindra XUV400 along with upcoming Tata Curvv EV and Maruti eVX.Creta EV – What’s new?Excluding the closed-off grille and bumper, much of the front fascia will be the same as that of the new Creta facelift. Some of the key highlights include horizontal LED positioning lamps and DRLs, front turn signals with sequential function and muscular hood design.New Hyundai Creta EVSide profile of Creta EV won’t have any major changes, excluding a new set of alloy wheels. At rear, Creta EV will have connected LED tail lamps, LED turn signals with sequential function and aerodynamic spoiler with a LED high mounted stop lamp.Most of the features available with new Creta will be shared with Creta EV. Some of the key highlights include integrated infotainment and instrument screens, voice enabled smart panoramic sunroof, front row ventilated seats, Bose premium sound system and dual-zone automatic temperature control. Creta EV could get some more premium features, likely from Ioniq 5. A comprehensive range of connectivity and ADAS features will also be available with Creta EV.New Hyundai Creta EVCreta EV specs, rangeIt has been revealed that Creta EV will be getting a 45-kWh battery pack. These battery packs will be manufactured by LG Chem. Creta EV could have a certified range of around 450 km. Real-world range could be around 250 to 300 km. However, range will vary based on various factors such as driving conditions, driver skills, etc.Creta EV will be getting an advanced regen system, which will help optimize range. The SUV will have a fast charging option, allowing users to load up quickly within minutes. For example, Hyundai Ioniq 5 can be charged from 10% to 80% in just 21 minutes using an ultra-fast charger.Talking about performance, Creta EV will have a single-motor setup, mounted on the front axle. The motor will be the same as used with the new-gen Kona available in international markets. It generates 138 hp of max power and 255 Nm of peak torque. Other information such as acceleration, top speed, charging time, etc. will be revealed in due course.Hyundai India Charging Network GrowingHyundai EV charging network expansionFor the benefit of its EV users, Hyundai is working to expand its EV charging network. New ultra-fast EV charging stations are being set up across cities like Bengaluru, Ahmedabad, Pune, Mumbai, Gurugram and Hyderabad. Charging stations are also being set up along major highways such as Delhi-Jaipur, Delhi-Chandigarh, Mumbai-Nashik, Mumbai-Surat and Hyderabad-Vijayawada. Users can find an available charging slot using the MyHyundai app. Hyundai EV users can also make online payments and monitor the charging status of their vehicle. More

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      in Electric Cars

      New Skoda Epiq Is A 4.1m Electric SUV – Is This India Bound?

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      New Skoda Epiq Electric CrossoverAs opposed to the current crop of EVs from the company, new Skoda Epiq is the first representation of “Modern Solid” design languageFueling the electric vehicle onslaught, Skoda is launching six new EVs by the end of 2026. For India, however, Skoda has announced a sub 4m SUV at its recent event that could spawn a full-electric counterpart at a later date. Skoda has now introduced Epiq sub compact electric crossover which may find its way to our shores.Skoda Epiq Is A 4.1m Electric SUVWhat exactly is Skoda Epiq? The company calls it a design study, rather than a concept. But in reality, Skoda Epiq looks like a near production ready prototype that is undergoing studio photoshoot for advert material. Meaning, that this design study is so practical and mature, it looks ready for production.Skoda Epiq RearTouted as “small but epic”, Skoda Epiq is the first vehicle (design study) from the brand to sport its new “Modern Solid” design language. This is slightly different to what Skoda teased at the recent event on its upcoming sub 4m SUV. Targeted starting price of this vehicle is EUR 25,000 which translates to Rs. 22.5 lakh with today’s currency exchange rates.Skoda Epiq is a 4.1m long e-crossover that could be rounded-up as an electric version of Kamiq. However, being a born electric vehicle, Skoda Epiq boasts increased practicality over Kamiq. Born electric vehicles are blessed with better space optimisation by OEMs and Epiq sports a 490L boot space, which is roughly 20% larger than Kamiq’s.Skoda Epiq DashboardHow does it look?The Modern Solid design language is fairly handsome. We are sure this design wouldn’t split any opinions if launched in India. There are sleek LED DRLs on either end of Epiq’s fascia. These DRLs are coupled with fang-like LEDs vertically arranged, giving them an inverted L-like shape. Headlights are positioned below these fangs, engulfed in a black trim.New Skoda Epiq Electric CrossoverSkoda’s typical moustache is still present, but is sleeker and a lot appealing. Lower bumper has 8 massive vertical openings that lend an interesting direction. Side profile is strong with a thick and upright C-pillar. Door handles are conventional and there are swanky aero wheels. Floating roof effect and black body cladding all-around are other notable elements.Tail lights have T-shaped LED signature and the same 8 vertical openings can be seen in rear bumper too. Skoda lettering in Red sits on the neatly sculpted tailgate proudly. Chunky roof rails and glass roof are noteworthy.New Skoda Epiq Electric CrossoverPowertrain and specsOn the inside, Skoda Epiq looks modern and minimal. There is a layered dashboard, a free-standing infotainment screen, a small digital cluster, 2-spoke steering, a few buttons below the infotainment screens and seating for five. Skoda has tastefully played with white and orange shades for striking contrast.Powertrain-wise, Skoda Epiq will be underpinned by MEB Entry platform. Only FWD drivetrain is highly likely with this vehicle. Battery size is unknown and WLTP range could be in the ballpark of 400 km. Skoda Epiq might break covers in 2025 and the exact vehicle is less likely to reach our shores. More

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      India’s Electric Vehicle Policy in the Spotlight – Import Duty At 15% For CKD

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      Tesla India launch expected this yearPowering Production: India’s EV Policy and Manufacturing RequirementsThe Union Government’s E-Vehicle Policy in India could be a pivotal step towards transforming the automotive industry. This regulatory framework outlines stringent yet strategic measures. This is aimed at fostering the growth of electric vehicle (EV) manufacturing (in the years to come) within the country.One of the policy’s key features is the stipulation of a minimum investment requirement of Rs 4,150 Cr, while also eliminating any maximum investment limit. This provision encourages substantial capital infusion into the EV sector. Which of course is essential for establishing robust manufacturing facilities and infrastructure.India’s Electric Vehicle Policy MandatesThe policy mandates that manufacturing facilities must be operational within three years. Commercial production should be commencing within the same timeframe. Dedicated timelines highlight efforts at expediting the adoption and proliferation of EVs. Domestic Value Addition (DVA) emerges as another crucial aspect of the policy putting focus on the need for indigenous production. DVA targets are set at 25 percent by the 3rd year, and 50 percent by the 5th year.India’s Electric Vehicle Policy – Emission MissionThe policy imposes 15 percent custom duty on vehicles with a CIF value exceeding USD 35,000 (About Rs 30 lakhs pre duty + tax) for a duration of five years. Additionally, it outlines provisions for limited imports, capping the maximum number of permissible imports at 40,000 EVs. Annual import numbers should not be exceeding 8,000 units.To ensure commitment and compliance, investors are required to furnish bank guarantees, serving as a financial security mechanism. Failure to meet DVA and investment criteria may lead to the invocation of these bank guarantees. Thereby reinforcing accountability and adherence to the policy’s mandates.The latest announcement sets forth a comprehensive roadmap for the sustainable development of the Indian automotive industry. By striking a balance between regulatory measures and incentivising investments, it aims to propel India towards a cleaner, greener, and more technologically advanced future. To make progress, the policy needs to lay strong emphasis on fostering innovation and technological advancement within the EV sector. By encouraging research and development initiatives, one can hope for cost efficient EVs that fit into people’s purchase plans.Domestic Dynamo: Policy Looks To Energise IndustryAs it stands, the policy serves as a catalyst for job creation and skill development in the automotive sector. Establishment of manufacturing facilities and the subsequent increase in production volumes will generate employment opportunities. This would be across various skill levels, from assembly line workers to engineers specialising in electric vehicle technology.Developing the E-Vehicle Policy aligns with India’s broader economic and environmental objectives. As a signatory to international agreements, India is committed to reducing its carbon footprint, and transitioning towards more sustainable forms of transportation. The promotion of electric vehicles through this policy is aimed at achieving these targets. This is based on global dialogues that view EVs as inherently cleaner while producing fewer emissions compared to traditional internal combustion engine vehicles. More

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      in Electric Cars

      Mahindra XUV.e9 Full Screen Dashboard and Frunk Area Spotted

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      Mahindra XUV.e9 ful dash touchscreen and Frunk AreaWhen compared to the flamboyant interiors of BE range of electric SUVs, XUV.e range share most of their interiors with XUV700 ICE vehicleAfter the first wave of electric cars in the form of e2O, e2O Plus and e-Verito, Mahindra has re-entered electric mobility business with XUV400. But the company has huge ambitions of dedicated BEVs and we will witness many born electric cars. Mahindra XUV.e9 is among them and recent spy shots reveal more information about this upcoming coupe SUV.Mahindra XUV.e9 Massive Frunk Area SpottedOne appreciable trait of a dedicated electric vehicle is that there will be quite a lot of space under the bonnet owing to platform optimization. On a derived electric vehicle most of the components are shared with their ICE counterpart and relocating them requires extensive re-engineering, which could prove a costly affair.Mahindra XUV.e9 InteriorsThe same is true with Mahindra’s EVs as well. XUV400 is a derived electric vehicle sharing most of its components with XUV300. Hence there is no Frunk (Front Trunk) or a Froot (Front Boot). The same can’t be said about Mahindra’s new wave of dedicated EVs in the form of XUV.e8, XUV.e9, BE.05, BE.07 and BE.09 or the XUV 7XO, XUV 5XO, XUV 3XO, XUV 1XO.BE.05, XUV.e8 and XUV.e9 have been spotted testing already. In the recent spy shots of XUV.e9 test mules credited to APK Kavaskar, we can get a sneak peek under the bonnet. We can see generous empty space that Mahindra can engineer into a Frunk or Froot.Mahindra XUV.e9 FrunkWe can spot a few rubber sealants on the bonnet hinting that Mahindra is thinking of implementing a small front cargo area. Looking at this area, we would reckon that Mahindra will implement a shallow, but wide and large Frunk or Froot with neat plastic trim. This particular vehicle seems to be an AWD unit and there will be more Frunk or Froot area with RWD model.Mahindra XUV.e9 FrunkWhat else can we deduce?Other notable attributes we can spot on this XUV.e9 test mule are twin hydraulic bonnet struts. XUV700 doesn’t get hydraulic bonnet struts even today, which is a shocking omission considering Duster offered it for almost half the price. We can’t ignore the massive road presence of this vehicle.The Coupe SUV shape grabs a lot of eyeballs, lending a stylish and sophisticated appeal. In one of our previous spy videos, we can see the massive triple-screen layout on the dashboard along with similar AC vents to XUV700. There is a new two-spoke steering wheel too and Mahindra could implement an illuminated logo like revealed in concepts.Mahindra XUV Coupe full dash length touchscreen spotted pic.twitter.com/nwsqF52MOP— RushLane (@rushlane) March 13, 2024Other notable attributes include large wheels that might be at least 19-inchers, Goodyear tyres, flush door handles, rear door handles on C-pillars, massive rear LED tail light signature, and large fascia with massive animalistic LED DRLs. The born electric INGLO platform offers battery options between 60 kWh and 80 kWh in capacity along with single-motor and dual-motor AWD drivetrain. Launch is expected by Dec 2024. More

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      Maruti Suzuki eVX Electric SUV Spied Up Close – New Details Revealed

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      Maruti EVX Electric SUV SpiedPrimary rivals for Maruti Suzuki eVX spied up close include upcoming Creta EV, Curvv EV, BE.05, eC3 Aircross along with ZS EV and XUV400India’s best-selling car manufacturer, Maruti Suzuki, is exploring electrification route with its upcoming e-SUV. Maruti Suzuki is among the last OEMs to explore BEV options, while aiming at a bigger splash with hybrid vehicles. Despite that, the company has commenced testing of its maiden eVX electric vehicle and new spy shots reveal interesting details.Maruti Suzuki eVX Spied Up CloseUnlike the sub 4m Tata Nexon EV and Punch EV already on sale, Maruti Suzuki eVX will be a larger vehicle. This is because Nexon and Punch share their top hats with their ICE counterparts adhering to sub 4m length constraints. Maruti Suzuki eVX is based on YY8 skateboard, which is derived from Toyota’s 27PL platform.Maruti Suzuki eVX Spied Up CloseSo, this is a dedicated EV platform and not a derived one, shared with an already existing ICE vehicle. Maruti Suzuki eVX will not adhere to sub 4m length constraints and might measure between 4.2 m and 4.3 m. This pits it directly against Mahindra XUV400 and MG ZS EV, along with upcoming Hyundai Creta EV, Tata Curvv EV, Mahindra BE.05 and Citroen eC3 Aircross.The spy video shared by Rolling Cars reveals interesting new details. There is conventional headlight positioning, unlike the recent trend of split headlight setups. Headlight units seem to get triple ice-cube effect LED DRLs along with a mono LED projector setup. Front fascia has a radar module too, for ADAS suite.Maruti Suzuki eVX ORVM CameraORVMs get a camera each, suggesting a 360-camera setup. Alloy wheels are nothing fancy when compared to what was showcased in the concept car. Other interesting attributes include charging port on front left quarter panel. This should have been in the front centre for convenience’s sake like Tata does with Punch EV.Maruti Suzuki eVX New Infotainment ScreenWhat can we expect?Maruti is giving all-four disc brakes for enhanced stopping power, which is needed for heavier electric vehicles. While 4th generation Swift will ditch C-pillar mounted rear door handles, Maruti Suzuki eVX embraces it. Tail lights seem to be still under finalization and we can see temporary exposed bulbs for brakes and indicators.Going by recent Maruti launches, we can expect connected LED tail light design as well. Rear shark fin antenna and a neatly integrated roof spoiler are other highlight features. On the inside, this new spy video shows a larger touchscreen infotainment screen too. For starters, it is free-standing and looks wider and shorter than Maruti’s current 9-inch unit.Maruti EVX Electric SUV SpiedWe can speculate it to be around 10.2 inches diagonally. A similar screen might make it to instrument cluster for a new-age look. A panoramic sunroof, ventilated front seats, powered driver’s seat, and dual-zone climate control may be other highlights.Powertrain-wise, we can expect 45 kWh and 60 kWh battery options with single or dual motor AWD layouts too, accompanied by a 550 km claimed range. Launch could happen in 2025 and there will be Toyota counterpart based on Urban Crossover Concept revealed recently.Source More

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      Mahindra XUV 7XO, 5XO, 3XO, 1XO Names Registered – For Upcoming Electric SUVs

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      Mahindra XUV 7XO, 5XO, 3XO, 1XO Names Registered. Image – Shantanu GodaseNames like XUV 7XO, XUV 5XO, XUV 3XO, XUV 1XO are easy to remember and establish a clear differentiation between respective ICE and EV modelsIn a couple of years from now, Mahindra will have expanded its EV portfolio to include multiple new products. The names for these new EVs are also being worked out. It appears that Mahindra is keen on picking some short, trendy names, in line with the dynamic profile of its upcoming EVs.Mahindra Trademarks XUV 7XO, XUV 5XO, XUV 3XO, XUV 1XOInstead of choosing entirely new names for its upcoming EVs, Mahindra seems to be using a derivative of its existing naming convention. The newly trademarked names XUV 7XO, XUV 5XO, XUV 3XO, XUV 1XO are apparently the EV versions of XUV700, XUV500, XUV300 and an all new small SUV EV. It is likely that these new names will be used for production versions of the XUV EV concepts which were shown earlier.Mahindra XUV 1XO Name RegisteredThe addition of X in the new names links it to the electric underpinnings and the letter ending with O meets Mahindra’s tradition of vehicle naming (Bolero, Scorpio, Marazzo, etc). While they also relate to their ICE versions, the names are short, crisp and easy to remember. A high recall value is expected, similar to the names of the ICE models.Mahindra XUV 7XO, XUV 5XO, XUV 3XO, XUV 1XO – Expected featuresExcluding the closed-off grille, several of the styling bits will be common across the ICE and EV models of XUV700 and XUV300. The equipment list will also have a similar set of features. The EV versions will probably be able to support a higher number of tech features.Mahindra XUV 3XO Name RegisteredFor its born-electric range, Mahindra is working on multiple segment-first features. For example, a test mule of XUV.e9 was recently spotted with a triple-screen dashboard. While being functionally relevant, it significantly enhances cabin aesthetics. The triple-screen unit covers almost the entire width of the dash. It helps achieve a symmetrical design format, which is not possible with the popular dual-screen setup seen with many SUVs.Mahindra XUV 5XO Name RegisteredIt is possible that the XUV 7XO and 5XO could get this new triple-screen dash. In comparison, XUV 3XO and X1O may continue with a solo touchscreen infotainment system. Bigger SUVs could get additional connectivity and safety features. The ADAS kit could be expanded in the case of XUV 7XO and 5XO. XUV 3XO and 1XO could also get some of the critical ADAS features such as blind spot detection, traffic sign recognition and driver drowsiness detection.Mahindra XUV 7XO, XUV 5XO, XUV 3XO, XUV 1XO – Expected range, battery specsUpcoming Mahindra EVs will be based on the new INGLO architecture. Battery packs will be in the range of 60 kWh to 80 kWh for the bigger SUVs. While XUV 7XO and 5XO could get both single-motor and dual-motor AWD options, the XUV 3XO and 1XO are likely to be offered with only a single electric motor. Detailed specs are yet to be revealed, although the new INGLO platform promises significant improvements across performance, drive comfort and versatility.Mahindra XUV 5XO Name RegisteredXUV 7XO, 5XO and XUV 3XO will have a range upwards of 400-450 km while XUV1XO could have a range of about 200-250 kms. With rapid progress in charging infrastructure, an extraordinary high range may not be required. Also, the focus is shifting on achieving a faster recharge. This allows users to load up quickly within minutes and resume their journey. However, experiments with newer battery technologies continue that can deliver a much higher range.Mahindra XUV 7XO, 5XO, 3XO, 1XO Names Registered More

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      Electric Car Sales Feb 2024 – Tata, MG, Mahindra, BYD, Kia, Mercedes, BMW, Audi

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      Hyundai Ioniq 5Improved accessibility to charging stations, which is found to be sorely lacking as on date, are vital to the growth of electric passenger cars in IndiaEven as the Indian automobile sector is being continually nourished with new and improved electric vehicles, the lack of charging stations at strategic points is hindering progress. According to Federation of Automobile Dealers Associations (FADA) electric passenger vehicle penetration is at around 1.5 to 2 percent while EV two wheeler penetration stands at 5 to 5.5 percent. Apart from challenges that buyers face in terms of charging infrastructure, constraints of higher initial costs and range have also resulted in an overall adverse effect in terms of sales in this segment. Though the calendar year 2024 started off on a positive note with the electric car segment showing off increased demand in India and several new model launches, February 2024 sales showed significantly lower numbers.Electric Car Retail Sales February 2024 – Tata Motors Leads with 68% Market ShareElectric car retail sales stood at 7,231 units in February 2024. This was a YoY growth of 51.72 percent from 4,766 units sold in February 2023. However, MoM sales performance saw a decline of 11.43 percent from 8,164 units sold in January 2024. While almost every automaker has seen a YoY growth, except for BYD and Kia, MoM sales performance ended in the red across segment with only PCA Automobiles (Citroen) showing outstanding growth.Electric car sales Feb 2024 vs Feb 2023 – YoY performanceTata Motors, which has the largest portfolio of electric cars, led the segment with 4,941 electric cars sold last month. This was a YoY growth of 25.89 percent from 1,925 units sold in February 2023 while MoM sales dipped by 11.63 percent over 5,591 units sold in January 2024. Tata Motors’ EV portfolio currently includes the Nexon EV, Tiago EV, Punch EV and Tigor EV all priced in a Rs 7.99 to Rs 19.29 lakh range.At No. 2 was MG Motors. The company sells the Comet and ZS in the electric segment priced from Rs 6.99 to Rs 25.08 lakh. MG recently reduced prices of Comet EV, making it more affordable at INR 6.99 lakh. The company has also added new variants to its ZS EV lineup with the Excite Pro positioned above base Executive trim and below Exclusive Plus trim. MG’s EV sales grew by 190.88 percent YoY to 1,053 units, up from just 362 units sold in February 2023 while MoM sales fell by 9.38 percent over 1,162 units sold in January 2024.Electric car sales Feb 2024 vs Jan 2024 – Mom performanceMahindra EV retail sales that had stood at just 7 units in February 2023 improved by a whopping 8785.71 percent to 622 units in February 2024. Its MoM performance however saw a 16.06 percent decline from 741 units sold in January 2024. Mahindra XUV400, the electric segment is priced from Rs 15.49 lakh to Rs 19.39 lakh. The XUV400 was recently updated and is now called XUV400 Pro while the company plans to launch 5 new models under the born EV platform, INGLO.BYD and BMW overtook Hyundai in terms of electric vehicle sales in February 2024 with 143 units sold though the company has reported both a YoY and MoM decline. There had been 242 units and 150 units sold in February 2023 and January 2024 respectively. China’s Build Your Dreams currently sells the Atto 3 SUV and e6 MPV in India which are priced from Rs 29.15 lakh to Rs 34.49 lakh. The automaker has just introduced the Seal EV sedan in India which could offer a range of 510-650 km depending on variant.Premium / Luxury EV Sales February 2024In this exclusive segment, it was BMW that saw the most sales for its electric vehicle lineup in February 2024 with 127 units sold in the said month. This related to a 115.25 percent YoY growth from 59 units sold in February 2023 while MoM sales fell by 13.01 percent over 146 units sold in January 2024. There are 4 BMW Electric cars currently available – iX1, i4, iX and i7 being offered at starting price Rs 66.90 lakh to Rs 2.50 crores.Hyundai Motor India dropped to a 6th position on this list from No.4 in January 2024. Sales stood at 118 units in the past month up 136 percent YoY from 50 units sold in February 2023 while MoM sales dipped by 27.16 percent. Hyundai’s EV lineup comprises the Kona and Ioniq5 which are currently priced from Rs 23.84 lakh to Rs 45.95 lakh.PCA Automobiles, the Indian affiliate of Citroen, is a relatively new entrant into the EV segment. The company witnessed sales of 79 units in February 2024 relating to a 182.14 percent MoM improvement in sales over 28 units sold in January 2024 and was the only automaker on this list to report a growth. Its sole electric offering – eC3 is priced from Rs 11.61-13.35 lakh.Volvo India (43 units) and Mercedes Benz (42 units) each posted YoY growth but MoM declined in EV sales. Kia Motors sales dipped to 21 units in February 2024 posting both a YoY and MoM fall from 30 units sold in February 2023 and 35 units sold in January 2024. Kia’s EV lineup consists of the sole EV6 which is priced from Rs 61.00 to Rs 66.00 lakh depending on variant.Audi AG has seen outstanding demand for its extensive EV lineup with sales zooming to 20 units last month and was the only automaker on this list to post YoY and MoM growth. Sales were up 122.22 percent YoY and 42.86 percent MoM over 9 units and 14 units sold in February 2023 and January 2024 respectively. Audi’s EV pricing ranges from Rs 1 crore to Rs 1.95 crore. There are other EV manufacturers in India that have contributed 22 units to total sales in February 2023 relating to a 69.23 percent YoY growth from just 9 units sold in February 2023. Sales however slipped by 11.43 percent from 28 units sold in January 2024. More