More stories

  • in

    April 2024 Week 1 Auto News Roundup – Toyota, Tesla, Skoda, Tata, Lexus, Hyundai, Force, Kia, KTM, Ather

    Toyota TaisorNew launches, along with Tesla production for India and Hyundai Ioniq 5 getting DL grabbed headlines in first week of April 2024In addition to entirely new products, 2024 facelifts and price hikes were also announced by select OEMs. Spy shots also revealed new details about upcoming products. Here’s a quick roundup of all the exciting news stories and updates from April 01 to April 06, 2024.Ather Rizta launchedAther has launched its new Rizta electric scooter at Rs 1.10 lakh. Rizta is a family-oriented scooter and will rival the likes of Ola S1 X+, TVS iQube and Bajaj Chetak. Battery pack options include a 2.9 kWh and a 3.7 kWh unit. True range is 105 km and 125 km, respectively.Ather Rizta LaunchedTesla starts production for Indian market in GermanyFollowing the government’s announcement of the new EV import policy, Tesla has commenced production of RHD vehicles at its plant in Germany. However, it is not known exactly which model is being produced for the Indian market. Tesla could launch its first product in India later this year.Toyota Taisor launchedA rebadged version of Maruti Fronx, Toyota Taisor is available at a starting price of Rs 7.74 lakh. A total of 5 trims are on offer. Taisor marks Toyota’s re-entry into the highly competitive sub-4-meter UV segment.New Toyota Taisor2024 Renault Captur facelift unveiledRenault Captur 2024 facelift will be available for sale in Europe later this year. The updated model gets a complete exterior refresh, along with new features and powertrain options. Captur was available in India earlier, but was discontinued due to low sales and stricter emission norms.2024 Renault Captur – HybridCitroen celebrates 3rd anniversary with attractive offersFrench carmaker Citroen is celebrating its 3rd anniversary in India. Offers for customers include special pricing for C3 hatch and C3 Aircross SUV. Special Blu limited editions of C3 and eC3 have also been introduced. Existing customers are eligible for referral earnings and a free car spa as well.Lexus NX350h Overtail confirmed for IndiaIn India, Lexus NX350h Overtail is expected to be launched soon. It will take on rivals such as BMW X3, Mercedes-Benz GLC, Audi Q5, Volvo XC60 and Jaguar F-Pace. Lexus NX350h Overtail will come with a price tag of Rs 71.17 lakh. It utilizes a hybrid powertrain.Creta facelift prices hikedHyundai had launched the Creta facelift earlier this year. Prices have been hiked with immediate effect. While price of base variant remains unchanged at Rs 10.99 lakh, all other variants have become costlier in the range of Rs 3,500 to Rs 10,800.Mahindra XUV 3XOMahindra XUV300 is now XUV3X0One of the popular sub-4-meter compact SUVs, Mahindra XUV300 will be getting its facelift version soon. Mahindra has also announced a new XUV 3X0 name for the SUV. This new naming convention is likely to be used for other models as well such as XUV 7X0, XUV 5X0, XUV 1X0, etc.Honda Elevate prices hikedSince its launch, Elevate prices have been increased twice. The first price hike was in January 2024, followed  by the recent price hike in April. Elevate variants have become costlier in the range of Rs 23,000 to Rs 40,000.Maruti production crosses 30 million unitsIt has been a fascinating journey for Maruti, having commenced operations way back in December 1983. Now, after around 40 years, Maruti has achieved the cumulative production milestone of 30 million units. The company continues to dominate, with market share of over 40%.2024 Skoda Superb Re-LaunchedSkoda Superb makes India re-entryProbably based on market feedback, Skoda has reintroduced the Superb executive sedan in India. It will be imported via the CBU route. India gets the 3rd-gen model, whereas Skoda has revealed the 4th-gen model for international markets. Superb goes on sale in India at Rs 54 lakh.Kia 2024 models launchedKia has introduced the 2024 versions of Sonet, Seltos and Carens. There are new variants and prices have also been revised.Force Gurkha Pickup Single CabForce Gurkha pickup spottedIn an interesting development, a 2S Force Gurkha Pickup single cab was spotted on road tests. It is not certain if and when this pickup will be launched. With its off-roading equipment, Force Gurkha Pickup single cab seems to have potential across specific environments and applications.Hyundai Ioniq 5 gets driver’s licenseIn a development that highlights the growing power of AI, machine learning and robotics, a Hyundai Ioniq 5 robotaxi has cleared the driver’s license test in the USA. Hyundai Ioniq 5 robotaxi is a Level 4 autonomous vehicle with several advanced features. More

  • in

    Production Of Tesla Cars For India Commenced – Supply Not From China

    Tesla Model 3Ahead of the full fledge manufacturing plans in India, Tesla has commenced production of cars for Indian market to be shipped in from GermanyIn a bid to make a name for itself in the world’s third largest automotive market, Tesla has commenced production of RHD vehicles. Unlike initial speculations suggesting shipments from China, a recent report suggests Tesla intends to ship RHD vehicles to India from its manufacturing facility in Germany.Production Of Tesla Cars For India CommencedWorld’s leading electric car maker, Tesla, is poised to enter the Indian automotive scene and establish a manufacturing presence here. Initially, there were setbacks to Tesla from Indian Government regarding the reduction in taxation for establishing a retail chain with units shipped into the country from China.After a brief pause, Tesla changed its approach towards Indian market. The growing economy and India climbing the ladder to become the world’s third-largest automotive market certainly helped in these regards. One of the nudges could be Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s visit to USA and dialogues exchanged with Tesla founder, Elon Musk.Because India is a market for RHD vehicles, initial speculations suggested an imminent import from Tesla’s Shanghai plant. RHD Tesla cars are primarily manufactured here and are exported to all RHD markets like UK, Japan, Australia and others.File photo from 2023. Elon Musk and Narendra ModiRecent report suggests Tesla has commenced production of RHD vehicles for India in its Berlin plant in Germany. Considering the proximity between Germany and UK, there is a possibility that Berlin-made RHD Tesla cars might be sold in UK, replacing Shanghai-made units. As of now, there are no confirmations regarding which vehicles Tesla has on the cards for Indian markets.Tesla’s Berlin plant currently manufactures Model Y. Considering Indian road conditions and market perception, high-riding Tesla vehicles like Model Y could be a good fit.Company’s roadmapElectric vehicle juggernaut, Tesla, has pledged to establish manufacturing facilities in India. The company is about to finalise the location for the manufacturing facility. A team from Tesla is expected to fly into India and decide between three prospective locations – Tamil Nadu, Maharashtra and Gujarat.Tesla Model 3 refreshedAhead of that, Tesla is bringing vehicles manufactured in Germany to India via CBU route. These developments surfaced following the revised taxes by Indian Government on certain electric vehicles who’s manufacturers invest a minimum sum of USD 500 million and commence production within the next three years.As per the revised Indian policy, manufacturers can import up to 8,000 units into the country under the revised taxation policy at a lower tax rate. In the grand scheme of things, Tesla intends to increase its reliance on Indian providers for sourcing various components, making India a bigger sourcing hub.Source More

  • in

    Maruti eVX Interior Details Revealed – Creta EV, Curvv EV Rival

    Maruti Suzuki eVXUpcoming Maruti eVX is based on a new born-electric platform and is expected to be around 4.2 to 4.3 meters longIndia’s largest carmaker by volume, Maruti Suzuki has started testing its first-ever fully electric vehicle – eVX. It is underpinned by the YY8 skateboard, a derivative of Toyota’s 27PL platform. Maruti eVX is expected to be launched in India in 2025. There will be a Toyota-badged version as well.Maruti eVX – Interiors revealedTest mules of Maruti eVX have been spotted multiple times in recent months. In the latest spy video, one gets to see the cockpit area of the electric SUV. While interiors are a work-in-progress and have significant camouflage, some of the details are still evident. For example, there’s a rotary dial for the gear selector and an electronic parking brake.Maruti eVX Interior DetailsThe central area is pretty wide, something that clearly separates the driver and front passenger sections. Maruti eVX will offer a range of premium equipment. One can notice the large touchscreen, which appears to be an integrated infotainment and instrument screen. Another detail to be noted is the flat bottom steering wheel.Interiors are quite spacious and should offer adequate headroom and legroom for all passengers. Based on the equipment list seen with new-gen Maruti cars, eVX could get features such as a head-up display, ventilated front seats, dual-zone climate control, powered driver’s seat and a panoramic sunroof.Maruti eVX – Sporty exteriors, ADASSimilar to other compact SUVs such as the Creta and Seltos, the Maruti eVX boasts a sporty, athletic build. It appears quite wide, something that could ensure best-in-class shoulder space for rear passengers. Test mules are heavily camouflaged and do not reveal any of the finer details. Only a few features are noticeable such as the conventional headlight positioning, ice-cube LED DRLs and a flat closed-off grille. The charging port is located on the front left quarter panel.Maruti eVX gets large alloy wheels and C-pillar mounted rear door handles. Rear section is heavily camouflaged and temporary lighting elements can be seen. The SUV has shark fin antenna, a prominent spoiler and rugged rear bumper. It is possible that eVX could get a connected LED tail light setup. Talking about tech features, eVX is expected to get a 360° camera and ADAS.Maruti eVX Interior DetailsMaruti eVX – Specs, PowertrainFor enhanced safety, Maruti eVX will be equipped with all-four-disc brakes. The SUV is expected to have standard and long-range versions, with battery capacity of 45 kWh and 60 kWh, respectively. Both single and dual motor AWD options could be offered. Range is expected around 550 km.When launched, Maruti eVX will compete with the likes of Mahindra XUV400 and MG ZS EV along with upcoming Tata Curvv EV, Hyundai Creta EV, Mahindra BE.05 and Citroen eC3 Aircross. While Maruti dominates the ICE segment with over 40% market share, it will be interesting to see how it performs in the EV space. More

  • in

    Citroen Blu Edition Launched – 3rd Anniversary Offers, Referrals, Car Spa

    Citroen Blu Edition LaunchedAs part of its third anniversary celebration in India, Citroen has announced attractive offers for both existing and new customersCitroen had started its operations in the Indian market with the C5 Aircross launched in 2021. Since then, the French carmaker has expanded its portfolio to include the C3 hatchback, eC3 electric and C3 Aircross SUV. Citroen is celebrating its third anniversary, wherein customers stand to gain from a range of attractive offers.Special Anniversary price – C3 and C3 AircrossAs per the anniversary offer, the C3 hatch is available at a special price of Rs 5.99 lakh. Users stand to save Rs 17,000, as the standard price of the base trim is Rs 6.16 lakh. Citroen is also offering special benefits of up to Rs 1.50 lakh on the MY23 model of C3.The C3 hatch is powered by a 1.2-litre 3-cylinder petrol engine, available in two states of tune. Base variants deliver 82 PS / 115 Nm and are equipped with a sole 5-speed manual gearbox. Higher variants churn out 110 PS / 190 Nm and get mated to a sole 6-speed manual gearbox.Citroen C3 Aircross is available at a discounted price of Rs 8.99 lakh. That’s instant savings of Rs 1 lakh, as the standard pricing for C3 Aircross is Rs 9.99 lakh. Users can also access benefits worth up to Rs 1.90 lakh if they choose the MY23 model.Citroen Blu EditionEngine options for C3 Aircross are the same as C3, available only in the higher state of tune. Transmission choices include 6-speed manual and a 6-speed Aisin-sourced automatic gearbox unit called “Automatique”. Torque output is higher at 205 Nm with the automatic transmission.Special ‘Blu’ Edition of C3 and eC3Customers looking for some exclusivity can choose the Blu edition of C3 and eC3. This is a limited edition, available across Feel and Shine variants. The Blu limited edition model has a new Cosmo Blue exterior shade. There are sporty graphics across the body and roof, which further enhance the overall look and feel.Inside, the Blu edition packs in new features such as sill plates, illuminated cup holders and an air purifier. Users can also access customized neck rests, seat covers and seat belt cushions, among others.Citroen C3 Blu EditionRs 10,000 per referral and Free Car SpaIn a highly rewarding referral scheme, Citroen is offering a voucher worth Rs 10,000 for every successful referral. Existing Citroen customers can also get a free car spa, as part of the third anniversary celebrations. These offers are valid for April. However, some offers may be subject to stock availability.While India is a tough market to crack, Citroen remains committed towards its goals. The company is currently focusing on expanding operations across the country. By the end of this calendar year, Citroen aims to establish 200 sales and service touchpoints. This expansion is part of the company’s Network Expansion Program (NEP). Citroen will also be introducing new products such as the Basalt Vision Coupe SUV. It will primarily rival the upcoming Tata Curvv. More

  • in

    Hyundai IONIQ 5 Robotaxi Clears US Driver’s License Test

    Hyundai Ioniq 5 robotaxi Driving LicenseHyundai Motor Co.’s IONIQ 5 robotaxi passes a US driver’s license test in Las Vegas, marking the first time for a Level 4 autonomous vehicleA video released online shows off the new Hyundai IONIQ 5 robotaxi completing a process akin to that of an actual US driver’s license test. This new robotaxi, based on the all-electric IONIQ 5 crossover showed off its self-driving skills to achieve consistent driving performance under a host of driving conditions to exude uncompromised safety.Boasting autonomous driving technology, the Ioniq 5 robotaxi was put through a host of tests among which were public-level driving test and road driving in Las Vegas and emerged to prove its safety on both counts.Hyundai Ioniq 5 robotaxiIONIQ 5 robotaxi’s Reliability Put to TestThe video starts with a sad tale of Pearl Outlaw, a visually impaired American lady and her mother Ruth, talking about the disability called Retinitis Pigmentosa. This degenerative disorder limited Pearl’s freedom of mobility. However, with this new and certified robotaxi, having passed the driving test is a positive step in this direction. It will be a game changer for such persons who will no longer have to rely on others for their mobility.The accompanying video also demonstrates how the Ioniq 5 robotaxi was put to the test by Kandice Jones, a DMV-certified driving examiner with 25 years of experience who has failed thousands of students in the past. She states that “Out of the 31,500 people I’ve supervised over the past 25 years, only about 16% have passed”.[embedded content]Sitting in the front passenger seat, Jones tested the robotaxi under the same criteria as a human. It was monitored for speed, lane change, manoeuvres, left turns and lane maintenance besides complete stop and quick reaction time as the autonomous robotaxi took on the Las Vegas Strip and city suburbs. It passed each of these tests with flying colours.Hyundai’s IONIQ 5 robotaxi – An SAE Level 4 Autonomous VehicleHyundai’s IONIQ 5 robotaxi is based on an Electric Global Modular Platform (E-GMP), Hyundai Motor Group’s dedicated battery electric vehicle (BEV) platform. It emerges as a collaboration between Hyundai Motors and Motional, an autonomous driving technology developer. It is fitted with over 30 sensors, cameras, radars and lidar to offer a 360-degree perception besides high-resolution images and long-range detection of objects to demonstrate consistent and safe driving performance. A safety suite, displayed across the vehicle’s exterior sets it apart from human-piloted vehiclesHyundai Ioniq 5 robotaxi ObstaclesThe successful completion of this stringent driving test marks the first time that a Level 4 autonomous vehicle, classified by SAE International, has been awarded the Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standards (FMVSS) certification. This Level 4 means that the vehicle can drive itself under limited conditions without the requirement of a safety operator in the front seat. However, this is unlike Level 5 which allows for fully automated driving. It also highlights Pearl’s story of everyday mobility constraints faced by the physically impaired, with autonomous driving technology coming to the rescue in providing such persons a sense of independence.Earlier last month, the 2024 Hyundai Ioniq 5 Facelift made its debut in India with an increased range. It is slated to come into India via CKD route by the end of 2024 or early 2025. More

  • in

    March 2024 Tata Motors Sales up at 50,110 units, FY24 Growth

    Image – Hitesh Patel.March 2024 Tata Motors Sales GrowthIn March’24, Tata Motors sold a total of 50,297 passenger vehicles, including 6,738 electric vehicles. Compared to March’23, this marks an increase of 6,072 units in total passenger vehicle sales, showcasing a positive growth trend.During the same period last year, in March’23, Tata Motors recorded total vehicle sales of 44,225 units, with 6,509 being electric vehicles. Thus, there’s a noticeable uptick in sales performance this year.March 2024 Tata Motors SalesFY24 Passenger Vehicle SegmentIn Q4 FY24, Tata Motors total domestic sales reached 1,55,010 units. This surpasses the figures from Q4 FY23, which stood at 1,34,893 units in total domestic salesFor FY24, Tata Motors reported total domestic passenger vehicle sales reaching 5,70,955 units. In comparison, FY23 witnessed total domestic passenger vehicle sales of 5,38,640 units.March 2024 Tata Motors SalesSUVs: Growth Projections Amid Shifting TrendsTata Motors projects Industry-wide passenger vehicle segment numbers for FY24, with estimates exceeding 4.2 million units. Robust growth trajectory finds SUV sales to be a big mover, expected to constitute over 50 percent of the overall sales volume in FY24. It’s no surprise though since what SUVs mean has long been redefined in reference to the Indian auto industry. The catchword is ever-expanding.For Tata Motors, FY24 is the third consecutive year of recording the highest ever sales. Retail sales growth, measured through Vahan-based data, has shown an increase of around 10 percent compared to FY23.FY24, March 2024 Tata Motors Sales – CNG and EVThe company has also witnessed healthy growth in vehicles powered by CNG and EVs, contributing nearly 29 percent of the overall sales. Tata EV sales are reported at 48 percent growth compared to FY23.In Q4 FY24, Tata Motors achieved its highest ever wholesales, with 1,55,651 units sold. They also mark the highest number of EVs sold in a quarter, with 20,640 units sold in Q4 FY24. In March’24, Tata Motors crossed sales of 50,000 units for the third consecutive month. A multi-powertrain helps meet varying consumer buying patterns/requirements. More

  • 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