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      Toyota Hilux Electric Based On Innova Platform – Launch By 2024

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      Toyota’s new pickup truck concepts celebrate the brand’s 60 years presence and wide fan following in ThailandToyota Hilux ElectricUnlike the aggressive focus on electric cars, Toyota believes other technologies also need to be considered such as hybrid electric, fuel cell and emission-free synthetic fuels. The thoughts were expressed by Akio Toyoda, President of Toyota Motor Corporation, during the launch event of IMV0 (zero) and Hilux Revo BEV concepts in Thailand.It seems practical, as other technologies can be just as effective and sustainable as electric cars in achieving carbon neutrality goals. Emergence of other technologies will also make the automotive space more competitive and vibrant, as compared to an electric-only ecosystem that would increase dependence on battery manufacturers.Scope for innovation will also be limited in case of the latter. Toyota is among the few carmakers that have resisted a full-fledged shift to EVs. They have also practically demonstrated the viability of other environment-friendly technologies, as evident with cars like Mirai.Toyota IMV0 (zero) conceptBoth concepts are based on IMV platform that was originally developed under the leadership of Akio Toyoda. Started in 2002, the IMV project has spawned multiple bestsellers such as Hilux Vigo, Innova and Fortuner. It was Toyoda’s idea to refresh the IMV platform and create “something truly affordable and truly innovative”. The efforts have eventually led to the development of alternate energy vehicle (IMV0). Toyoda has stated that both IMV0 (zero) and Hilux Revo BEV will reach production stage in around a year’s time.Toyota IMV0 ConceptWhile powertrain details of both concept vehicles have not been revealed, it could be used for cars like Innova and Fortuner in future. As a vehicle, IMV0 (zero) focuses on modularity, both outside and inside. IMV0 (zero) is highly customizable, with the ability to transform into a different body in under an hour. All that’s needed are two adults, standard tools and some elbow grease.Body formats that IMV0 (zero) can quickly acquire include a standard cargo bed, flower truck, emergency response vehicle, refrigerated carrier and outdoor camper. Modularity extends to external parts such as bumper that has three separate units. In the event of a dent or crack, only the broken unit needs to be replaced and not the entire bumper. Interiors too will follow the modularity approach, but exact details are currently not available.Toyota Hilux Revo BEV conceptAs compared to IMV0 concept, Toyota Hilux Revo BEV looks like a more conventional pickup truck. Only difference is that this one is focused on supporting carbon neutrality and creating a better environment for all. Toyota Hilux Revo BEV concept has a closed grille with slatted design elements, angular headlamps with integrated LED DRLs and trapezoidal fog lamp housing.Toyota Hilux ElectricSide profile is almost entirely flat, which complements its utilitarian character. Other features include alloy wheels and body-coloured rear view mirrors with integrated turn signals. Charging slot is located just above the front left wheel. At rear, the truck has vertically mounted tail lamps and flat tailgate. Images are credited to Indra Fathan, Autolifethailand, Headlightmag, & Grand Prix Online. More

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      Maruti Omni Electric Van Future MPV – Render In New Colours

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      With a highly modular compact electric architecture, an Omni EV is technically feasibleMaruti Omni Electric Van Future MPV – RenderThe paradigm shift towards e-mobility could be a rare but wonderful opportunity for the OEMs to clean their slate and start afresh. This means an ailing automaker could execute a course correction and bounce back.Iconic automotive nameplates that are long forgotten could be totally reinvented with a modern take. Maybe, and we say only maybe, small cars, sedans and minivans could become cool again by overcoming the contagious crossover fever!Maruti Omni Electric VanIf at all there is an Indian automotive icon we would love to see in a neo-classic electric avatar, it is the Maruti Omni. Such was the popularity of the versatile and affordable minivan that it enjoyed considerable demand until the very last day. As most of you know, Maruti had to put the Omni down as it was nowhere close to meeting the new mandatory safety regulations.Now that a highly modular electric platform is pretty much the way the whole automotive world is heading, a Maruti Omni EV based on a future-ready Suzuki compact car architecture is technically feasible. It all depends on whether the company wants to do it or not. Anyway, we thought we would envision a funky Omni EV and leave it out there for you to ogle at (and summon the power of collective desire!).Maruti Omni Electric Van Future MPV – RenderOur rendering specialist Pratyush Rout started out by retaining everything that made the original Omni an astounding success – compact footprint, boxy shape, and the quintessential sliding rear doors. And as you can see, the Omni’s core design effortlessly adopts modern elements like LED lighting and aero-friendly features such as flush door handles, rear-view cameras and low-drag wheels.A simple and uncluttered dashboard with a generously proportioned infotainment display would make this hypothetical Maruti Omni EV a compelling urban mobility solution. There is no reason why the original minivan’s 8-seat configuration could not be retained. With a range of around 300 to 400 km, the electric people carrier would be immensely popular in rural and urban markets alike.Maruti’s EV gameplanThat said, Maruti Suzuki is not in any hurry to kick-start its electric era. Citing lack of infrastructure and support from the government in promoting e-mobility, the automaker has shelved its electric Wagon-R project which is initially touted to be ready for 2020. At least for the next 3-4 years, Maruti is likely to focus on its CNG and hybrid powered lineup, even if its rivals turn their focus towards electric vehicles.We think even if Maruti forgoes first-mover advantage in the compact electric vehicle market in India, it will still take a monumental effort by the competitors to breach the fort. And in the process of trying, they are likely to make the market conducive, only for Maruti to sweep in and retake control! More

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      in Electric Cars

      Mahindra Electric XUV, BEVs To Be Built At New Pune Plant – Rs 10k Cr Investment

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      Mahindra electric vehicle manufacturing plant to be set up in Pune, Maharashtra at an investment of Rs 10,000 crore over a period of 7-8 yearsMahindra INGLO Platform for upcoming Electric SUVsWhen it comes to EVs, brand Mahindra is a name that has cropped up in more conversations than others. Years earlier the auto manufacturer showed interest in Reva, a Bangalore based electric car company. They sold small electric cars that found much acceptance in Bangalore in its early years. Following its acquisition by Mahindra, the e2o, previously known as REVA NXR was launched, and thereafter eVerito.In recent times, the company has introduced a range of Treo e3Ws. And most recently, XUV400 electric. In short, it’s been years since the wait started. And finally Mahindra electric passenger cars are set to be a real EV buying option. XUV400 EV will be available in 3 variants.Mahindra EV manufacturing plant investmentWith longterm EV goals set, our roads are inclined to look different by the end of the decade. Focus is laid on large-scale EV adoption. Plans are afoot to introduce larger electric fleets for public transportation needs. E-commerce and delivery companies are committed to using electric SCVs. And private consumption in the future looks vastly different. At present, this change is being led by e2W manufacturers with e-scooters leading the charts.In terms of electric cars, customer choice is far too limited at the moment. And more players are expected to participate in a few short years to change the way the electric car portfolio looks.Mahindra XUV Electric SUVMahindra has now announced an investment of Rs. 10,000 Crore for electric vehicles. This has been approved under Maharashtra Government’s industrial promotion scheme for Electric Vehicles.  The 10,000 Crore investment will be made over a period of 7-8 years. It’s earmarked for building a manufacturing facility, development, and production.mahindra INGLO EV Platform and BE brandBased on the state-of-the-art INGLO EV Platform, Mahindra e-SUVs will be launched under the XUV brand, and an all-new electric-only brand is called ‘BE’.  Rajesh Jejurikar, Executive Director, Auto & Farm Sectors, Mahindra & Mahindra Ltd., stated, “We are delighted with this approval from the Govt. of Maharashtra for setting up our EV Manufacturing Plant in Pune, and investing in what has been our ‘home’ state for over 70 years. We are very thankful to the Govt. of Maharashtra for their continued support. The Government’s focus on ‘ease-of-doing-business’ and progressive policies, together with Mahindra’s investment, will act as a catalyst for Maharashtra to become India’s EV hub, attracting further Indian and Foreign Direct Investment.” More

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      Citroen C3 Electric Teaser Reveals Name – eC3 Launch Soon

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      Electric Citroen C3 gets a charging socket at its front right fender – New launch teaser is outCitroen C3 Electric TeasedEven though the French car maker has been around for more than a 100 years, it is still a new brand in India. Citroen made its India debut with the C5 Aircross and its first mainstream car was the C3 hatchback. Considering the relative newness of Citroen C3, it has been doing very well in India.With more dealerships, Citroen can push its sales envelope. For example, there are only two La Maison Citroen dealerships in Karnataka state and both of them are in Bengaluru alone. That said, Citroen is expanding its portfolio to incorporate a 7-seater version of C3 and even an electric version of C3.Citroen C3 Electric New TeaserCitroen is getting ready to launch C3 electric, which as per their latest teaser will be christened eC3. Launch could take place at the Auto Expo 2023. eC3 electric falls into Citroen’s plan to bring in three new models in India as part of its C-Cubed program. Production will take place at CK Birla facility in Thiruvallur near Chennai, Tamil Nadu.Like conventional C3 and upcoming C3 Plus, C3 electric will also be based on a Common Modular Platform (CMP) with high localisation. Just within 6 months of launch of its ICE counterpart, Citroen C3 is going fully electric, which is commendable. Since affordability is the key, Citroen is likely to keep interiors, body and mechanicals similar to C3 hatchback.Citroen C3 Electric TeasedCitroen eC3 is expected to have a 30.2 kWh battery pack which is larger than the 24 kWh battery pack that Tiago EV top variants are packing. It will deliver peak power of 86 bhp (63 kW) and 143 Nm of torque. Both these figures are higher than its immediate rival, Tiago EV, which only makes 74 bhp and 114 Nm.Specs & FeaturesIt is likely that LFP cells will form a battery pack of electric Citroen C3. These batteries are reportedly sourced from Chinese supplier Svolt. We can expect a 3.3 kW AC charger built-in with additional fast DC charging capability with a CCS2 socket. With a battery pack accounting for 30.2 kWh, one can expect a range close to 300 km in real world.Desirable features such as alloy wheels, IRVM dimmer, electric ORVM adjustment, tachometer, auto climate control, reversing camera and rear wiper and defogger will make it to electric Citroen C3 that is not currently offered with top-spec variant of its ICE counterpart.Citroen eC3 electric car test mule donning these features is under testing, though. When launched, it will rival Tata Tiago EV and upcoming MG Air EV. Prices might hover between Rs. 10 lakh to 12 lakh mark (ex-sh). More

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      BMW India Launches S1000RR, M340i, XM Hybrid SUV – JoyTown 2022

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      BMW launched S1000RR in India alongside M340i sedan and XM hybrid SUV at the JoyTown festival earlier todayBMW S1000RR launchedBMW has launched a trio of products today. One is the S 1000 RR track motorcycle, second is the XM hybrid-electric SUV and lastly, we have the M340i X-Drive which is the first high-performance BMW with an M engine. The launch event took place at JoyTown 2022, a one of a kind festival for automotive enthusiasts in India.2022 BMW S1000RRStarting with S 1000 RR, it is brought here via CBU route. Bookings are open at authorised BMW Motorrad dealerships. Deliveries of which will commence in February of 2023. It will surpass its forerunners owing to comprehensive updates to its chassis, engine, suspension, aerodynamics, design, electronics and assistance systems.The design is radical as ever and looks ravishing in White colourway. Higher windscreen and side winglets allow shedding a split second of its lap times. It is powered by a 999cc 4-cylinder water and oil-cooled engine and generates 210 bhp of power, up by 3 bhp from previous iterations. It has stupendous levels of kit and technology to offer the ultimate track day experience.It gets a slipper clutch, quick shifter and four modes – Rain, Road, Dynamic and Race and optional pro modes. Other features are launch control, pit lane limiter, hill start assist, dynamic traction control, flex frame, dynamic damping control, ABS Pro with new Brake Slide Assist, a Coloured TFT Screen and a lot more. Prices start from Rs. 20.25 lakh for S 1000 RR, Pro costs Rs. 22.15 lakh and Pro M Sport costs Rs. 24.45 lakh (all prices ex-sh).BMW M340i Launched2022 BMW M340iNext is BMW M340i which is locally assembled at company’s Chennai plant. Prices start from Rs. 69.2 lakh (ex-sh), bookings are open via BMW dealers and deliveries will commence from January 2023. Offered as a sporty product, its design is well judged and accentuates the car’s nature. M aerodynamics package features a body-colored M rear spoiler as well.Interiors are fitting to the price and segment that M340i will fall into. It gets a floating type BMW Curved Display which is the main highlight of this car’s interior. Other bits include Sports seats with M-specific upholstery in a Sensatec/Alcantara trim, an M leather steering wheel with paddle shifters, carbon fiber bits, and a 16-speaker Harman Kardon music system.Under the bonnet, BMW M340i xDrive gets a 2,998 cc straight-six petrol engine that makes 374 hp and 500 Nm torque, allowing it to sprint from 0 to 100 km/hr in 4.4 seconds. It is coupled with an 8-speed Steptronic automatic gearbox and BMW X-Drive AWD system to ensure maximum traction. M Sport exhaust unit completes the package.BMW XM LaunchedBMW XM Hybrid SUV LaunchedJust like S 1000 RR, XM is also brought in via CBU route and hence a price tag of Rs. 2.6 crore (ex-sh). Bookings are open via BMW dealers and deliveries will commence in May 2023. Just like M1, XM has been developed fully independently by M GmbH, with no baseline from BMW model range. It gets BMW’s modern design philosophy with a massive M Kidney Grille at front.Speaking of grille, they’re illuminated as well. BMW is offering M light alloy wheels that are 22” in size and also offers optional 23” M light alloy wheels in Night Gold accents. M Sports Brakes with Black Callipers are standard and optional red or blue calipers are offered too. M Hybrid system consists of a new V8 engine with M TwinPower Turbo and an electric motor integrated into the 8 – speed M Steptronic transmission. Combined output is 653 bhp and 800 Nm of torque. The 25.7 kWh battery is rated for a claimed 88 km range from a single charge.Interiors provide both cockpit-like sportiness and a luxurious ambiance at the same time. All the dashboard equipment mentioned with M340i is present here as well. Interior features Coffee Brown Vintage leather which is unique. Door trim panels come with soft Nappa leather. Music system is taken care of by Bowers & Wilkins Diamond Surround Sound System with 20 speakers and a 1,475-watt amplifier, along with illuminated elements. More

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      MG Air Electric Car Production Target 36k, SOP March 2023 – New Spy Shots

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      With a two-door, small sized EV – MG Motor is getting ready to launch their most affordable car in IndiaMG Air Electric Car For IndiaAiming to take early lead in entry-level electric car segment, MG Motor is working on a two-door EV for Indian market. It will be based on Wuling Air EV (codenamed E230) that was recently showcased in Indonesia. At around 2,900 mm long, MG Air EV will be one of the smallest cars in India. It will be shorter than Alto by around 400 mm.New MG Air electric car for India will borrow much of its design and styling from E230. It is built on MG’s latest Global Small Electric Vehicles (GSEV) platform that can support multiple body styles. The car has a boxy, tall boy profile, which is likely to ensure adequate space on the inside.MG Air Electric Car StylingThere are some unique styling bits such as a full-width light bar that stretches to connect the rear view mirrors. The charging port is neatly hidden beneath the MG logo. Other key features include trapezoidal headlamps, rectangular fog lamps and body-coloured bumper. Latest spy shots are credited to automotive enthusiast Vishal Mevawala.To allow easy ingress and egress to the second row seat, the EV has been equipped with large doors. Rear passengers need not feel claustrophobic, as they have access to large, vertically mounted windows. While the E230 showcased in Indonesia had steel wheels with plastic cover, its India-spec version is likely to get alloy wheels. Rear styling is quite similar to front fascia, with features such as full-width light bar, curved windscreen and sleek tail lights.MG Air Electric Car For IndiaMG’s new EV will be equipped with a battery pack of around 20kWh to 25kWh. Power output will be 40 hp. Real-world range could be around 150 km. In view of the varying weather and ride environments in the country, MG will introduce a number of tweaks to make the EV suitable for Indian conditions. Enhancements will cover key systems such as battery thermal management system and air conditioning. In India, E230 will be launched under MG brand.To reduce cost, MG will be sourcing key components from local vendors. For example, the battery pack will be sourced from Tata AutoComp. The latter has an agreement with Chinese battery supplier Gotion, which covers design, production, supply and service of battery packs meant for EVs in India. E230 battery pack will have LFP cylindrical cells, which are similar to that of Tata Nexon EV. LFP cells are more reliable and have already proven their worth in Indian conditions.MG Air Electric Car ProductionSources tell Rushlane that MG Air electric car production start date is in March 2023. Annual production target is set at 36,000 units. MG is likely to price the entry-level EV at around Rs 10 lakh. Primary targets will be youngsters looking for trendier, environment-friendly mobility options. The EV can also work for affluent households that would like to have an agile, compact option in their garage. People living in smaller cities can use MG’s entry-level EV as their primary car.MG Air Electric Car For IndiaTo make it an attractive proposition, MG is likely to equip its new EV with features such as a large touchscreen and a comprehensive range of connectivity features. MG is set to unveil the new EV at 2023 Auto Expo. Market launch will take place around Q2 2023. While micro EVs have been quite successful in China, it remains to be seen how they will perform in the Indian market. There are considerable risks involved, but MG seems unfazed. Reportedly, Tata Motors is also planning to enter this segment, with new gen Nano Electric. More

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      Tata Nano May Launch As A New Gen Electric Car – 200 Kms Range

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      Tata Nano was a dream project of Ratan Tata – Production started in 2008 and lasted till 2018File photo of Tata Nano on testRemember Tata Nano? It was Ratan Tata’s dream to offer a car to middle-class families at the price of a two wheeler. The brainchild of Ratan Tata’s vision was launched as Tata Nano in 2008 and stayed in production till 2018, before it was axed.Even though Tata Nano has been discontinued, it has immense brand recall. One which could be utilized by Tata Motors in the future. Now, a recent report claims that Tata Motors is reviving the Nano project back from the dead. Only this time, it will be launched in the form of an electric vehicle.Tata Nano To Return As EV ?As of now, Tata Motors is the No 1 electric car maker in India. When total EV sales are accounted for in the country, Tata has over 80% of market share. Currently, they offer Nexon EV, Tigor EV and Tiago EV. To maintain lead in the growing EV segment, plans are afoot to launch more electric cars in the near future.There is a new breed of electric cars that is likely to create a lot of buzz in India. This is the micro EV segment, which is currently booming in China. For example, Wuling Hongguang Mini EV is China’s highest-selling car. This is a 2 door micro electric vehicle that is perfect for city excursions and comes at a relatively affordable price point.Ratan Tata With His Electric NanoRecently, we saw the launch of PMV electric car with 200 km of range and costs 4.79 lakh. MG is set to bring its Air EV to India as well. There might be a lot of startups jumping on this bandwagon of micro EVs. This is where Tata’s electric Nano will fit in if it does materialise. Unlike previous attempts, where Tata Motors tried to retrofit electric motor and battery in the existing Nano, this time things could be different. It is likely to be an all new car, with a modern day design – built as a Born Electric Vehicle.Jayem Neo – Nano Electric CabIn the past, Tata Motors’ partner Jayem Automotives, had announced an electric version of Nano under Jayem Neo brand. 400 unit order size of these were planned in 2017 to be used as city taxis for Ola Electric’s fleet operations. This project never saw the light of day.In December 2020, Jayem Neo electric test mule spotted testing on a public road near Akurdi, Pune. Jayem Automotives had managed to cram in 17 kWh of battery in Nano’s small real estate. It promised 203 km of range from a single charge, certified by ARAI. Along with it, a top speed of 85 km/h.Tata Motors have not officially announced the Nano EV. If it is being considered, it might be one among the 10 new EVs that Tata is planning to launch in the next five years. Earlier this year, they showcased Curvv and Avinya EV concepts.Source More

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      Toyota Innova Hycross Electric Version Reportedly In The Works

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      After electrification of Crysta, it is the turn of electric Innova Hycross prototype and it looks sharp in a renderToyota Innova HyCross Electric – RenderInnova Hycross is the one vehicle that is constantly generating a lot of interest among car buyers in India. It made its debut just a few days ago, with an official launch scheduled for next month. New Innova HyCross ditches diesel for clean burning petrol and strong hybrid powertrain options.Toyota reckons that hybrids are better bets than going full electric. That said, the company has full electric vehicles in its lineup under BZ series. Toyota had showcased an electric Innova Crysta prototype that was later spotted testing on public roads. There is a high possibility that Toyota is testing the feasibility of electrifying vehicles with ladder-frame chassis.Toyota Innova Hycross Electric PrototypeNew reports suggest that Toyota is looking into electrifying Innova Hycross. This info was revealed in one of the threads in a forum by Muhammad Joned. But there is a catch. This is likely to be only offered to fleet owners. Unlike Innova Crysta, Innova Hycross is based on a modern monocoque chassis that has a front wheel drive architecture. The former came with a ladder-frame chassis and had rear wheel drive architecture. This was revered as a robust vehicle and came with a diesel engine which was much sought-after.Hycross is almost opposite to Crysta in terms of its construction. The thread on this forum reveals that, apart from the Innova Crysta electric prototype that was showcased at Indonesia International Motor Show in Jakarta, there are two more such prototypes in Indonesia and two more in Thailand.Toyota Innova Crysta Electric Concept PrototypeAmong the ones in Indonesia, one is at TAM (Toyota Astra Motors), Jakarta, and the other is brought around for exhibitions and shows. The ones in Thailand are at the regional R&D base of Asia Pacific via Toyota Daihatsu Engineering Manufacturing. One was dismantled for Hycross (Zenix) as the plan was to make an electric version of Hycross (Zenix).The report further states that this prototype being built, is not aimed at private buyers. Instead, it is aimed at government and private fleet operators. Along with that, GSO and companies that want to go green, are intended customers. One such company is said to be a mining firm that has safety risks from using ICE cars.Innova Hycross Electric  – RenderDamanik’s Studio has created a tasty render of the upcoming prototype of Innova Hycross. It inculcates design philosophies that Toyota used while creating Innova Crysta electric prototype. Electric Innova Hycross prototype gets a new front fascia with a closed-off grille. Toyota logo gets a blue surround and there are blue colour splashes in the side profile.It is not yet officially revealed whether Toyota is making an electric prototype based on Innova Hycross. Even if there is one, there is no news as to when it will be showcased and where. One can expect it to have a battery big enough to cover 300 km of real-world use on a single charge.Render, Source More