Car News

Subterms

    More stories

    • 138 Shares189 Views

      in Electric Cars

      Kia EV9 Electric SUV Teased – India Debut 2023 Auto Expo

      by

      Hyundai SEVEN concept (production name – Ioniq 7) is underpinned by the same E-GMP platform like Kia EV9 conceptKia EV9 Electric SUV Teased For IndiaMost cars falling under Hyundai’s umbrella, have vertical integration across their sub-brands. We have seen this in India as well with Creta-Seltos and Venue-Sonet. In global markets, Hyundai takes this platform sharing a notch above by bringing its luxury brand Genesis to the mix as well.The same concept sticks with Kia and Hyundai’s concept vehicles. If there is a Hyundai concept, it will likely spawn a Kia as well. There will be major differences in styling, though. Same is true with Hyundai SEVEN concept and Kia EV 9 concept. Speaking of, Kia EV 9 concept is now teased for India and will be showcased at 2023 Auto Expo taking place in Greater Noida next month.Kia EV9 Electric SUV TeasedAt Kia Motors pavilion at 2023 Auto Expo, there will be a lot going on. The most awaited of them all is Seltos facelift with more tech (ADAS) and features (panoramic sunroof) along with a new 1.5L turbo petrol engine. This engine replaces the 1.4L turbo petrol unit and packs in more punch with up to 160 PS of power.Kia could also showcase a new generation of Kia Carnival (globally sold as Sedona) and Sorento SUV. India still gets the 3rd generation model, while the 4th generation model has been on sale since 2020. An update to the Carnival was long overdue and along with that, we will get to witness Sorento SUV as well, for the first time in India.[embedded content][embedded content]The star of the show will obviously be the Kia EV9 concept. With radical design and boxy silhouette, Kia has playfully integrated butch and boxy designs of yesteryear with modernity and a lot of drama. Hyundai’s counterpart of this concept is Ioniq 7 which takes a swoopy approach to its concept. Kia EV9 concept looks like a buff version of Kia Soul EV on steroids.Test mules of production-spec version Kia EV9 have been spotted in South Korea before. Most of the boxiness and butch appeal is carried over to the production-spec model. We saw a glimpse of this large barge of an SUV at LA Auto Show 2021. Now, it will be showcased at Kia Motors pavilion at 2023 Auto Expo.Specs & DimensionsKia EV9 concept vehicle is Telluride sized. In simple terms, it will be slightly over 5m in length, almost 2m in width and over 1.7m in height. Kia Telluride has a 2,900mm long wheelbase. Technical specifications of the Kia EV9 concept are not yet out. On the inside, this concept vehicle gets an interesting setup with three seating modes; Active, Pause and Enjoy. For driver, there is an ultra-wide 27 inch HD display.2023 Kia EV9 Electric SUVA large fixed glass roof dominates the roof. It is based on E-GMP (Electric Global Modular Platform), just like Hyundai SEVEN (production-spec name is Ioniq 7). A 100 kWh battery pack with up to 500 km of range from a single charge, is a possibility. Production-spec Kia EV9 will get both 2WD and 4WD options as well. More

    • 125 Shares99 Views

      in Electric Cars

      New Gen Tata Nano Electric Render – Reborn For Glory

      by

      While an official statement has not been issued, it is likely that Tata Nano Electric will be utilizing an entirely new platformNew Gen Tata Nano Electric RenderNano was an ambitious project, aimed at providing a safer alternative to families using two-wheelers. Two adults with two or more children packed in a small space and riding on two wheels has been a common sight on the roads. Nano wanted to bring about a change, but somehow it didn’t generate the numbers, as needed to be viable from a business perspective.Tata Nano was discontinued in 2018, even though it had garnered decent response at the time of its launch in 2008. While it failed to meet balance sheet requirements, it did manage to create a high brand recall. One can still find some of these on the streets and the car’s unconventional dimensions and cute profile are difficult to overlook. This is why there’s scope for Nano to be reborn in electric format.Tata Nano electric design – RenderWhile it may take some time for Nano electric to hit the road, automotive design artist Pratyush Rout has come up with an exciting concept design of the micro-EV. The silhouette is familiar, but overall styling looks a lot more modern and fluid. Use of large glass panels creates an airy, likeable feel for the car. An all-glass top could work even better, but it may not be viable from a cost perspective.Nano electric can be seen with large eyelid-shaped DRLs and compact headlamps. The bumper section has a smiley effect, which complements the car’s friendly vibes. Side panels have a sculpted look and feel and front doors have flush handles. Rear doors have the handles integrated into the C-pillar. Wheels are placed at the extreme edges, which ensures a longer wheelbase and spacious interiors.New Gen Tata Nano Electric RenderWith Nano electric, Tata may be aiming for the first-mover advantage in micro-EV segment. This space has been witnessing massive growth in international markets like China. Something similar can be expected for India, where currently entry-level hatchbacks dominate the numbers game.New Nano EV rangeTata has been successful in creating electric versions of its popular cars like Nexon, Tigor and Tiago. Nano EV could be part of the same strategy. Tata is also getting ready to launch electric version of Punch in 2023.However, with Nano electric, Tata may utilize a different approach. Nano electric could be based on a born electric platform and pack in more modern design aesthetics. Likely to be positioned as Tata’s most affordable electric car, Nano EV could have a range of around 200 km.It will primarily cater to city commutes and can emerge as a preferred choice for folks who care about the environment. If sales numbers meet expectations, Nano electric could also be instrumental in reducing some of the smoke from heavily choked cities like Delhi, Gurugram, Noida, etc. More

    • 150 Shares179 Views

      in Electric Cars

      Citroen C3 Electric Spied At Charging Station – Next To Nexon EV

      by

      It will be interesting to see if Citroen C3 Electric (eC3) can match affordability of Tiago EV that is India’s first mainstream sub-10 lakh electric carCitroen C3 Electric Charging next to Nexon EVAfter C5 Aircross and C3 hatchback, Citroen is getting ready to foray into EV segment with the electric version of C3. As revealed in teasers, Citroen’s first EV for India is likely to be named eC3. It is expected to debut at the upcoming 2023 Auto Expo.While ICE-based C3 hatchback has emerged as a popular choice, it remains to be seen how consumers will respond to its electric version. Tiago EV has set high standards – being affordable as well as offering a comprehensive range of features. Citroen eC3 will also need to be prepared against upcoming MG Air EV. In the latest spy shot, the new Citroen eC3 can be seen at a charging station next to Tata Nexon EV, at Relux Charger Tindivanam, near Chennai. Spy shots are credited to Harikrishnan Pisharody.Citroen C3 electric (eC3) SpiedCitroen C3 electric can position itself as a better product than Tiago EV by offering improved performance and higher range. It could also introduce some segment-first or best-in-class features. Tiago EV’s pricing will be tough to beat, as it already appears to be at a discounted price range. It is one of the key reasons why Tiago EV has received an overwhelming response, with 10k bookings recorded in just 24 hours.While details about C3 electric have not been revealed officially, it is expected to get a 30.2 kWh battery pack. The electric motor will generate 86 bhp (63 kW) of max power and 143 Nm of peak torque. In comparison, Tiago EV medium range variants have 19.2 kWh battery whereas long range variants have 24 kWh battery pack. Power and torque output of top-spec variants is 74 bhp (55 kW) and 114 Nm, which is lower than Citroen C3.Citroen C3 Electric Charging next to Nexon EVBattery pack onboard C3 electric is likely to use LFP cells that are considered safer, long-lasting and better suited for extreme weather conditions. Citroen could be sourcing the battery pack from Svolt, a Chinese supplier. Citroen C3 electric range is expected to be around 300 km in real world driving conditions. In comparison, Tiago EV has a certified range of 250 km for medium range variants and 315 km for long range variants.Citroen C3 electric featuresBased on the same platform as ICE-based C3 hatchback, Citroen C3 electric will have the same set of features and equipment. It will help reduce development and production cost, which will allow Citroen to launch eC3 at a competitive price point. The EV will be manufactured at CK Birla facility, located in Thiruvallur near Chennai, Tamil Nadu.Some of the key features onboard Citroen eC3 electric could include 10.2-inch touchscreen infotainment system, wireless Android Auto and Apple CarPlay, C-Buddy smartphone connectivity suite, voice commands, remote keyless entry, 12v socket and USB charging ports.Safety kit will include features like ABS with EBD, reverse parking sensors, engine immobilizer and speed sensitive auto door lock. To make it more attractive, Citroen can introduce some entirely new features with C3 electric. More

    • 150 Shares149 Views

      in Electric Cars

      Tata Punch Electric Launch In 2023 – Price Lower Than Nexon EV

      by

      With new rivals emerging in entry-level EV segment, Tata Motors is bolstering its portfolio with products like Punch electricImage of Tata Sierra Electric SUV Concept for illustration purposeAfter successful debut of Tiago EV earlier this year in September, Tata Motors is gearing up to launch electric version of its popular Punch micro-SUV. The agenda is pretty clear, as Tata Motors will be looking to retain its dominance in EV space. As of now, Nexon EV along with Tigor EV command market share of more than 80%.After Punch electric is launched in 2023, Tata Motors will have a total of 4 EVs in its portfolio. Each of these cater to a different segment, which is an advantageous factor in view of emerging rivals and options available to consumers.Tata Punch EV variantsPunch EV will be slotted between Tigor EV and Nexon EV Prime. Its range, specs and features will be determined accordingly. Just like other electric cars from Tata, Punch EV will continue to utilize the trusted Ziptron powertrain.Punch EV will be getting two battery pack options, medium range and long range. For medium range Punch EV, power output and range could be similar to that of Tigor EV. The latter is equipped with a 26-kWh battery pack, mated to a 75 PS electric motor. Torque output is 170 Nm.50,000th Tata Electric Car – Nexon EVLong range Punch EV will closely match the specs of Nexon EV Prime. For reference, Nexon EV Prime has a 30.2 kWh battery pack that sends power to a 129 PS electric motor. Torque output is at 245 Nm. Hardware configuration will be similar such as adjustable regenerative braking and IP67-rated water and dust proof battery pack.Punch EV will be the first electric car to be based on Tata’s ALFA platform. The first car to utilize ALFA was Altroz. ALFA has been designed as a versatile platform, with capabilities to support multiple body styles and powertrains including electric powertrain. As such, users can expect better driving dynamics with Punch EV in comparison to other Tata EVs.Punch EV features, specsExteriors of Punch EV will be updated to match the signature styling seen with other Tata electric cars. Some exclusive colour options could be introduced. Interiors will have a lighter colour theme with signature blue highlights on the AC vents and blue stitching on the seats.Top-spec variants are likely to get leatherette upholstery. Other key features expected are automatic climate control, 7-inch touchscreen infotainment system, push button start/stop, cruise control, electric ORVM with auto fold and full digital instrument console.A range of connectivity features will be available such as car location tracking, remote geo fencing, real time charging status, remote vehicle health diagnostics and charging station locator. Safety kit will include features like dual airbags ABS with EBD, tyre pressure monitoring system, camera-based reverse park assist with dynamic guideways and follow-me-home headlamps. More

    • 213 Shares129 Views

      in Electric Cars

      New Geely Panda Mini Electric Car Launch Price 40k Yuan (Rs 5 L) – MG Air Rival

      by

      At slightly over 3m in length, Geely Panda Mini EV offers space for 4 adults – Only for Chinese market as of nowNew Geely Panda Mini Electric CarRemember Geely Holding Company? It is the parent company of Volvo Cars, Lotus Cars, London Electric Vehicle Company, and Qianjiang Motorcycles along with Geely Auto as a brand. The brand’s primary market is China and it is one of the most well-established automotive companies in the world.There is a market in China for tiny electric vehicles primarily targeted at urban buyers. Cars like Wuling Hongguang Mini EV / MG Air often top the sales charts in China. These cars have a tendency to be cute-sy and toy-ish in many ways which appeal to the target demographic perfectly.New Geely Panda Mini ElectricWith that market in mind, Geely has now showcased its new Panda Mini EV via its subsidiary brand Geome. The theme of this car is, you guessed it, Pandas. The company has successfully designed this car to match or come close to the cuteness of an actual Panda.China is notoriously famous for congestion along with pollution in major cities. A small electric vehicle is a boon for situations like this and is set to be wallet-friendly when compared to large electric vehicles with large batteries and powerful motors.Panoramic SunroofGeely Panda Mini EV tries to radiate as much cuteness as a Panda would. In that regard, we have a toy-ish exterior design. We can see references to Pandas in its front and rear bumper design with black inserts, mimicking black patches below a Panda’s eyes. There is a small rectangular cutout for air intake to cool the batteries. Rest of the front fascia is closed-off.There are circular LED DRLs around the headlight and between them, we have Geome branding in a cutout that is likely to be the opening for its charging setup. It also gets blackened ORVMs that come off as ears of a Panda.References to Pandas don’t stop there. Alloy wheel hubs are designed to mimic panda paws and finish off the overall Panda-inspired design. Geely showcased the Panda Mini Electric Car in Hangzhou and even the demonstration was filled with pink and light blue shades and panda figures everywhere.Panda Like FaceSpecs & FeaturesIt has seating for four and two doors for ingress and egress. A large infotainment screen and a digital instrument cluster dominate the pink dashboard. Other features include a panoramic sunroof, physical climate control buttons, and more. It measures just over 3m in length and 1.5m in width. Panda Mini EV is 1.6m tall and has a wheelbase of 2.01m.It is said to be equipped with a Lithium-Ferrous-Phosphate battery from Guoxuan High-Tech. Speaking about driving range, expect around 150 km of range from a single charge. A 40 bhp motor (30 kW) should be enough to move around this tiny vehicle. In China, Geely Panda Mini EV is likely to be priced between 40,000 and 50,000 Yuan (approx Rs. 4.73 lakh to Rs. 5.92 lakh). It mainly rivals Wuling Hongguang Mini EV and MG Air EV which is set to launch in India as well. More

    • 125 Shares99 Views

      in Electric Cars

      2023 Hyundai Kona New Gen Debuts – Petrol, Hybrid, Electric

      by

      Current gen Kona EV that is on sale in India gets a 39.2 kWh battery pack – It is likely to be replaced by the end of 2023FrontHyundai has pulled the curtains off its Kona lineup today. 2023 Kona consists of four variants. Company says that the design across its lineup was EV-derived and is futuristic in its appeal. It brings Kona to Hyundai’s new design language that we have witnessed on some of its recent products.Even though all four variants are based on the same universal structure, they get distinct styling to distinguish among themselves. By offering a variety in its powertrain offerings, 2023 Hyundai Kona lineup stresses sustainable mobility. There is a lot of technology-led design thinking inspired by its successful Ioniq 5.All New Hyundai Kona 2023Hyundai is offering the Kona lineup in four different variants with varied styling. We have the regular Kona with an internal combustion engine, Kona HEV (Hybrid Electric Vehicle) and sporty Kona N Line and lastly, Kona EV. Earlier, Hyundai Kona EV was spied testing with heavy camouflage at Desert Hills Premium Outlet in California, USA.SangYup Lee, Executive Vice President and Head of Hyundai Design Center, said on the occasion that “Upscaled with KONA’s unique character, the all-new KONA confidently expresses its bold and dynamic presence,”. He further added that “KONA has evolved in every respect to embrace an even wider range of diversity, to become a true lifestyle supporter.”InteriorIn a mission to carve more space for customers, the all new Hyundai Kona lineup has grown significantly. At 4,355 mm in length, it is now 150 mm longer and 25 mm wider than its predecessor. Even the wheelbase has been increased by 60 mm to offer better knee room for rear passengers. Combining all these, the new model should be a lot more spacious than its predecessor.Hyundai says that they started with the Kona EV first and then transferred its design and transformed it to suit other variants in the lineup. Front fascia is now brand new and features a horizontal light bar that doubles as DRL and below it arranged in a triangular-like housing, LED headlights.Features & SpecsKona EV gets a new Pixelated Seamless Horizon Lamp which has dot patterns instead of the parametric grill design found on Kona and Kona N Line. It gets body cladding all around and has an effect of housing its headlights and taillights in this very cladding. Side skirts and 19” alloy wheels are offered based on variants.All New Hyundai Kona LineupOn the inside, 2023 Hyundai Kona gets dual 12.3” horizontal displays. One for infotainment and the other for the driver’s instrument cluster. Other features include a single-pane sunroof, auto-dimming IRVM, ADAS, and a lot more. Powertrain specs for both Kona EV and the rest are not yet revealed. Hyundai will divulge further information in the coming months. More

    • 138 Shares139 Views

      in Electric Cars

      Toyota Hilux Electric Based On Innova Platform – Launch By 2024

      by

      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

    • 138 Shares99 Views

      in Electric Cars

      Maruti Omni Electric Van Future MPV – Render In New Colours

      by

      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