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      2022 MG Astor Electric (ZS EV) Spied – ADAS Radar, New Interiors

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      2022 MG Astor Electric (ZS EV)An improved battery capacity is expected to push the certified range beyond 450 KmNew test prototypes of the facelifted 2022 MG ZS compact electric crossover have been doing rounds in India for a while now, indicating that the launch is not far away. The updated version of the EV made its international debut in October last year and is reported to enter our market next month. The relatively short turnaround time underscores the important role the model plays in MG India’s scheme of things.2022 MG Astor Electric (ZS EV) – What’s new?While there were earlier evidences which indicated that the India-spec MG ZS EV is going to adopt a smaller battery to optimize cost, a more recent report suggests that the upcoming iteration will actually adopt a larger battery pack, and hence will have an improved autonomy.For reference, the current ZS EV on sale in India is equipped with a 44.5 kWh battery pack which has an autonomy of 419 Km certified by ICAT. It is being reported that the new version will adopt a 51 kWh pack which is expected to push the official range figure over 450 Km.A larger battery pack is likely to be accompanied by a sizable increase in price tag but a best-in-class range would go a long way in bolstering the compact electric crossover’s appeal. As of now, it is the Tata Nexon which is the best seller in the segment.[embedded content][embedded content]As far as e-motor is concerned, we don’t expect any significant changes. To recap, the ZS EV is powered by a PMSM (Permanent Magnet Synchronous Motor) which has a peak power and torque outputs of 141 hp and 353 Nm respectively.The charging system comprises a regular 7.4 kW AC and fast 50 kW DC systems. The enhanced battery capacity will slightly increase the fast-charging time from 0 to 80% which currently stands less than 50 minutes.Styling updatesStyling changes on the 2022 MG ZS EV are primarily concentrated on the front fascia. While sheet metal design remains pretty much untouched, the previous version’s conventional front grille has been eliminated in favor of a body-colored pseudo grille element which is expected to bring in aerodynamic improvements.2022 MG Astor Electric (ZS EV)The MG logo on the nose has now ditched its black background and no longer hinds the charging port behind it. Instead, the new grille element houses the hardly noticeable charging port lid.The new version of the MG electric SUV also gets new alloy wheel design which also appears to bring a slight improvement to overall aerodynamics. We don’t expect any significant changes to the interior. MG India has also equipped the EV variant with some features that are borrowed from the Astor.2022 MG Astor Electric (ZS EV)A digital instrument console, larger 10.1-inch infotainment system (current ZS uses a 8-inch unit), and wireless charger, ADAS features, are likely to be the new additions. Latest spy shots of the ZS EV confirm the presence of a radar module in the front. The MG ZS is currently the second best selling electric vehicle in India after Tata Nexon. We expect the new model to continue its strong run.Source More

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      2023 Mahindra XUV300 Electric Spied Testing – Nexon EV Rival

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      2023 Mahindra XUV300 Electric aka eXUV300 EV SpiedMahindra is currently exploring the potential of new designs with EVs for its passenger vehicle segmentMahindra gained the first-mover advantage into the electric vehicle (EV) space when they launched e2O, an iteration of the aging Reva, a decade back. However, it soon lost that advantage as it wasn’t able to build on extending its EV lineup while newer players like Tata Motors, Hyundai and MG launched their respective electric models.The company then launched a battery-powered eVerito sedan which tanked at the Indian auto market. This is the only electric car on offer from Mahindra currently. Now, the homegrown automaker intends to re-enter the EV space by bringing a whole range of new generation electric cars, starting with eXUV300, the battery-powered version of IC engine-driven XUV300.2023 Mahindra XUV300 Electric aka eXUV300 EVA pre-production concept version of the same made its maiden appearance at the Auto Expo. The electrified compact SUV will make its debut in 2023 which will subsequently be followed by a slew of other electric models from Mahindra. The company is also looking to explore new designs in the EV segment which means Mahindra also intends to launch all-new EV models with new brand names.2023 Mahindra XUV300 Electric SUV is expected to feature a 40kWh battery which will return an output of 130 bhp and a range of 300km in a single charge. It has now been spied testing by automotive enthusiast B Vinubalan, who has shared the exclusive spy images via Rushlane Spylane.2023 Mahindra XUV300 Electric aka eXUV300 EV SpiedSeeing the success of Tata Nexon electric in the Indian market, Mahindra has fast-tracked the launch of XUV300 electric version. It could be slightly longer despite sharing the same MESMA 350 platform, developed by Mahindra Electric completely in-house. ‘MESMA’ stands for ‘Mahindra Electric Scalable and Modular Architecture’.As of now, Nexon EV registers about 1,500 to 2,500 sales per month. It has a waiting period of 3-6 months. Tata is also working on launching a new version of Nexon EV this year, which will come with a larger battery, delivering higher range.eKUV100 only for Fleet SectorIt has also come to light that eKUV100, the battery-powered derivative of KUV100 will not cater to private buyers. Mahindra has revealed that the electric cross-hatch will only serve the fleet sector and that its planned range of 130-150km will be sufficient for its intended role.2023 Mahindra XUV300 Electric aka eXUV300 EV SpiedIncreasing the range would mean increasing the battery capacity which in turn would have increased the cost of the vehicle. Hence, it would not have been feasible for an entry-level buyer. eKUV100 recently made a brief appearance on the official website of Mahindra Electric. Like eXUV300, a pre-production concept of eKUV100 was also showcased at last year’s Auto Expo.Like many other eKUV100 was initially supposed to be launched this year, however, Covid-19 pandemic played spoilsport. Mahindra, as of now, is concentrating on strengthening its EV lineup in the commercial space where it already possesses electric three- and small four-wheelers. The carmaker believes that the current market penetration of EVs is not enough to justify the launch of electric cars. More

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      2022 Tata Nexon Electric Spied With Rear Disc Brakes – More Power?

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      2022 Tata Nexon Electric Rear Disc Spied2022 Tata Nexon Electric will have better competencies against the likes of MG ZS EV and Hyundai Kona ElectricWhile Tata Nexon EV is the top selling electric car in the country, its range is relatively less in comparison to other EVs. It’s true that Nexon EV makes up for the lower range with its affordable pricing. However, it’s quite possible that some people may be willing to pay extra to get more miles on a full charge.To cater to this segment, Tata Motors will launch a long-range version of Nexon EV later this year. Although priced higher than the current model, long-range Nexon EV will still be cheaper than its closest competitors.2022 Tata Nexon Electric long-range spiedUpcoming Nexon EV has been frequently spotted on road tests in recent months. Latest sightings reveal that the car has disc brakes on all four wheels. In its current form, Nexon EV has front disc and rear drum brakes. It is possible that a long-range Nexon EV can have a higher top speed than the current model. That’s where an all-disc brake variant can ensure efficient braking and adequate safety.In terms of styling, 2022 Nexon EV does not appear to have any major changes. It continues with Tata’s Humanity line faux grille, sporty dual-beam LED headlamps and DRLs, trapezoidal fog lamps and tri-arrow motif on the bumper. Side profile is largely the same with sculpted panels, thick body cladding and tapering roofline. Rear section is also the same as the current model.2022 Tata Nexon Electric Rear Disc Spied2022 Tata Nexon Electric – batteryPrimary update for long-range Nexon EV will be a larger 40 kWh battery pack. In its current form, the car utilizes a 30.2 kWh li-ion battery. It is an IP67 certified battery and has been rigorously tested for more than 1 million kilometres across varied environments.The battery supplies power to a 3-phase permanent magnet synchronous motor that generates 129 PS of max power and 245 Nm of peak torque. Nexon EV can reach 0 to 100 kmph in 9.9 seconds. 0 to 60 kmph is achieved in 4.6 seconds.Based on user reviews, range of current Nexon EV can vary depending on various variables such as driver skills, ambient temperature, use of AC, etc. While the certified range is 312 km, real-world range is around 180-200 km. This may not be enough for folks who commute long distances every day or regularly travel inter-city.2022 Tata Nexon Electric Rear Disc SpiedAlthough Tata Motors is currently building a wide network of charging stations, waiting for the car to charge can still be a hassle. With a fast charger, Nexon EV can be charged 0-80% in around 60 minutes. Charging time runs into several hours when using a standard 15 Amp plug point.2022 Tata Nexon Electric will be better, as it is expected to have a range of around 400 kms. True range could be around 300 km. This will be adequate for city commutes as well as long-distance journeys. Nexon EV long-range variant could be launched by mid-2022.Source More

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      Ola Electric Car Launch Plan – CEO Shares Teaser (Tata Nexon Rival)?

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      Is this the upcoming Ola Electric Car?The prospective electric car from Ola is likely to be available in two derivatives- one for private buyers and the other for the fleet segment
      After the successful launch of Ola electric scooter, the company is getting ready to launch an electric car. Rumors of an Ola electric car launch have been doing the rounds for quite some time. But now, Ola CEO Bhavish Aggarwal has shared a photo of what could be the new Ola Electric Car.
      It is believed that the ride-hailing firm is looking to gain an early mover’s advantage in the current nascent EV space in India. There are no official statements from Ola yet.
      Ola Electric Car Future Ready
      The new electric car from the Bengaluru-based startup is likely to be built on a born-electric skateboard platform. The car is expected to be wearing a futuristic look and will primarily be designed as an urban commuter with a limited range, though it is likely to be priced quite competitively.
      The Indian mobility sharing firm plans to develop its electric car indigenously and is currently planning to set up a Global Design Centre in Bengaluru for its electric car division. This facility will boast all the requisite facilities including a CMF (colour, materials and finish) lab as well as a clay modelling centre.
      Ola Electric Car Teaser?
      It is not the first time that Ola has had eyes on this space. Before entering into the manufacturing segment, it has been associated with a number of EV brands in the past. The company had also planned to induct a limited number of units of the Jayem Neo which was essentially a battery-powered Tata Nano.
      The car was developed by Coimbatore-based Jayem Automotives, however, the plans failed to see the end of the light after Nano electric being outcasted. Ola has reportedly hired a few design experts for its electric car project who previously worked with Tata Motors.
      Ola’s Hypercharger Network
      Currently, the biggest challenge for all EV manufacturers in India is the lack of charging infrastructure across the country. Ola will be looking to provide a comprehensive solution with a wide charging network spread across the country along with home charging equipment to address this issue. The ride-hailing major is currently setting up a Hypercharger network across India.
      Ola Electric Car To Rival Tata Nexon?
      Under this initiative, Ola Electric will be installing over 1 lakh charging stations across 400 cities in India. Although Ola has publicly revealed that these facilities will be used for charging its electric two-wheelers, it is yet to be seen if these infrastructures could double as a car charging network.
      Manufacturing facility in Tamil Nadu
      Ola has already marched towards its aim of providing fully-owned mobility solutions in the EV space by venturing into two-wheeler manufacturing. The company has built a state-of-art manufacturing facility in Tamil Nadu which is slated to be the world’s largest two-wheeler manufacturing site.
      It has an overall annual production capacity of two million / 20 lakhs. Total investment worth Rs 2,400 crore has been earmarked for the construction of this facility. It is likely that the Ola electric car will also be produced at the same factory as the scooter. Once launched, it could rival Tata Nexon, upcoming MG and Maruti electric cars. More

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      Maruti YY8 Electric SUV Launch Plan 2024 – 1.5 Lakh Production Target (Scoop)

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      Render for reference. Credit – Mightyseed DesignsMaruti YY8 will be made at Suzuki’s Gujarat plant and will also spawn a Toyota derivativeMaruti has been running several test mules of Japan-spec WagonR electric all over the country for a while now. It was initially expected that the country’s leading automaker will foray into EV space with its popular econo-hatchback, however, we have learnt that Maruti’s debut electric vehicle is going to be a mass market mini SUV.Maruti YY8 Electric SUVMaruti has green lighted a new electric SUV project, codenamed YY8. Information about the upcoming Maruti YY8 (codename) is scarce as of now but it will adopt an SUV-ish body with compact footprints. We expect it to compete with the future EV variant of the brisk selling Tata Punch.While technical specifications are still under wraps, the Maruti YY8 electric crossover will benefit from Suzuki’s partnership with Toyota. This would mean, the vehicle in question will also be sold with Toyota branding both in India and in select overseas markets.Touted to be ready for the market sometime in 2024 (with a possible debut at the Auto Expo), the electric mini SUV from Maruti will be manufactured at Suzuki’s Gujarat plant. It looks like both Maruti and Toyota have aggressive sales targets for this vehicle, as the expected production target per year is 1.5 lakh units.Render for reference, by Rajshekhar DassClearly, the OEMs are betting on accelerated EV adoption in the country, facilitated by current and future incentives from state and central governments. The charging infrastructure across the country is also expected to grow at a strong pace in the coming years.Maruti Electric SUV ArchitectureWith Suzuki’s lightweight Heartect and Toyota’s DNGA at disposal, it is unclear which architecture will the Maruti YY8 adopt. Both platforms are versatile and EV compatible. The Heartect is already heavily localized in India with a well established supply chain apparatus, making for a short time-to-market.On the other hand, Toyota’s DNGA has a better benefit due to economies of scale on a global level. This architecture is likely to be the basis of upcoming Toyota / Maruti SUV to rival Hyundai Creta. If that is the case, it implies that Toyota has already managed to localize this architecture to meet mass-market price targets in India.We expect the electric mini SUV to be priced under INR 10 lakhs. Drive range of around 250-350 kms should be a good place to start for an entry-level EV in India. The lithium-ion battery is most likely to be sourced locally from the Toshiba facility which is also located in Gujarat. All major OEMs are working intensely on their respective mass-market electric vehicles for India and we expect to see an avalanche of new launches as we approach the middle part of this decade. More

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      Tata Nexon Electric Coupe SUV Render – Larger Battery, 400 Kms Range

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      Tata Nexon Electric SUV Coupe – Render by SRK DesignsThe extended Coupe version of Tata Nexon is expected to be launched in both IC engine and fully electric derivativesTata Motors has been planning to launch a new mid-size SUV in order to fill the wide gap between Nexon and Harrier. This upcoming mid-size SUV could be based on the subcompact SUV- Nexon and will flaunt a coupe-like design.The homegrown carmaker is also looking to solidify its position in the electric mobility space in the country. The company recently established a new subsidiary called TPEML dedicated to development of electric vehicles and their related technologies. The subsidiary firm has been infused with a funding of Rs 700 croresLike Nexon, Tata Motors might also bring out a fully electric derivative of its Coupe SUV sibling. Originally conceptualised as a mid-size SUV back in 2018 to rival the likes of the Hyundai Creta, Nexon Coupe will essentially be a stretched version of the current Nexon with a new coupe body style. A digital rendering of the upcoming electric SUV has been created by SRK Designs.Tata Nexon Electric Coupe SUV – Exterior DesignThe digital illustration gives a sneak peek as to what the model could look like in its production avatar. The battery-powered Coupe SUV shows significant styling upgrades over the current Nexon EV. For starters, it receives a new front fascia with a closed-off nose dominated by Tata’s signature Humanity Line faux grille. Unlike Nexon EV, this rendering shows a split lighting setup on the Coupe SUV.Tata Nexon Electric SUV Coupe – Render by SRK DesignsThe upper section features a pair of sleek LED DRLs while the lower section gets new LED headlamps mounted on the bumper. Due to this revised setup, the front bumper has also been reprofiled heavily and looks more butch and aggressive. The bumper also features a larger and more prominent bash plate which adds to the car’s muscular appeal.The major changes occur after the B-pillars where the roofline slopes down aggressively. The roofline meets the rear end of the SUV which gets an extended overhang giving it the look of a pseudo sedan. Like Nexon EV, the Coupe SUV also gets blacked-out pillars to complement a black roof thus providing a dual-tone look to the vehicle.Other prominent highlights along the side profile include black claddings on wheel arches and door sills, a prominent character line running till the rear and a new set of alloy wheels. Another tasteful addition is the flush door handles which accentuate its premium appeal.Expected SpecsComing to specifications, Nexon Coupe EV is expected to be powered by the same Zipron powertrain but could feature a larger 40 kWh battery pack. It is expected to deliver a claimed range of over 400 kms. This battery pack will also make its debut in the upgraded version of Nexon EV, most probably later this year. The carmaker could also tweak the electric motor slightly to produce a higher output for the Coupe electric SUV.Source More

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      2022 MG ZS Electric Facelift Spied 1st Time – Tata Nexon EV Rival

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      2022 MG ZS Electric SUV Spied. Image – ParthThe facelifted MG ZS EV will feature an updated exterior design in line with the recently launched European model but with different battery pack options
      A few months ago, MG Motor launched a new compact C-segment SUV named Astor which is based on the petrol version of ZS sold internationally. However, Astor is based on the facelifted ZS unlike the pre-facelift ZS EV currently on sale in India. MG Motor has been selling the electric crossover in the country since early 2020.
      MG Motor is now planning to launch a facelifted version of the ZS EV in India. A test mule of the same has been caught on camera for the first time near the company’s manufacturing facility in Halol, Gujarat. The image is credit to automotive enthusiast Parth, who shared the image via Rushlane Spylane. The prototype spotted was heavily wrapped under camouflage.
      2022 MG ZS Electric Facelift – Exterior Updated
      Since the test mule is completely covered by camouflage, it is difficult to decode the exterior design of the SUV. However, the 2022 MG ZS Electric Facelift is expected to be designed in line with Astor and the facelifted ZS EV model which made its debut in Europe three months ago. The updated exterior should feature a new hexagonal closed-off front grille with a celestial pattern flanked by sleeker LED headlamps on each side.
      Another notable difference is the reprofiled front bumper with a larger and wider air dam. That said, a crossover-ish silhouette of the current model will be carried forward to the upcoming model. The test mule is seen standing on the same set of 17-inch multi-spoke alloy wheels as the current ZS EV. Rear end of the crossover should be more or less similar with slightly revised LED taillamps.
      2022 MG ZS Electric SUV Spied
      Features Expected
      Interiors of the ZS EV facelift are also not likely to boast any dramatic updates. It should feature the same dashboard layout with highlights such as a new 10.1-inch touchscreen infotainment display and an updated fully digital instrument console. Other features expected to be on offer include Android Auto and Apple CarPlay (both probably wireless) and MG’s i-Smart connected car technology.
      Updated Powertrain- New battery on offer
      There is still no clarity if the 2022 MG ZS Electric will receive an updated powertrain. Currently, ZS EV in India is powered by a 44.5 kWh battery pack which offers a claimed range of 419km on a single charge. This powertrain returns an output of 141 bhp and 353 Nm of peak torque. In international markets, the new ZS EV facelift is offered with two battery options- a 51kWh unit and a 72kWh unit.
      As per recent Type Approval document, MG could offer a smaller battery pack in the 2022 ZS EV which will offer a lower range but will come with a lower price tag as compared to the current model. In all probability, the updated ZS EV will now be equipped with a battery capacity of 40kWh which was revealed in the approval document leaked in August last year.
      2022 MG ZS Electric SUV Spied
      MG Motor will also offer multiple charging options in the new ZS EV facelift. Presently, a 7.4kW AC charger takes six to eight hours to get fully juiced up. On the other hand, a 50kW DC fast charger takes less than 50 minutes to juice up the battery from zero to eighty percent. Current MG ZS EV is priced from Rs 21.5 lakh for base trim and costs Rs 25.18 lakh for top trim – ex-sh prices. More

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      New Sony 7 Seater Electric SUV Debuts – Could Enter Production

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      Sony 7 Seater Electric SUVIf and when launched, the Vision-S 02 electric SUV from Sony would lock horns with Tesla Model Y crossover
      Electric mobility is the future of vehicular movement across the world. This has presented an opportunity to all brands across various industries to be part of the ongoing electric vehicle (EV) revolution which will see the advent of many path-breaking technologies in coming years.
      Many technology companies who have had expertise in electronic goods and appliances are now planning to step into EV manufacturing. One of the major brands being Sony which presented its first electric car- the Vision-S Concept back in early 2020.
      Sony 7 Seater Electric SUV Concept
      The Japanese technology giant has now previewed its second concept electric car in the form of Vision-S 02. Unlike Vision-S which is an electric sedan, Vision-S 02 is an electric SUV and both EV concepts were recently presented at the Consumer Electronics Show (CES) in Las Vegas.
      Sony even started testing road-legal prototypes of Vision-S around the same time last year, however, it has been reported that the electric sedan is unlikely to reach production stage. On the other hand, speculations are rife that Vision-S 02 could reach production at some point in the future. The electric SUV is based on the same platform as its sedan sibling and gets a four- as well as a seven-seat layout.
      Sony 7 Seater Electric SUV
      Sony Vision-S 02: Exterior Highlights
      The crossover measures 4,895mm in length, 1,930mm in width and 1,651mm in height which puts it in the same ballpark as Tesla Model Y. In the concept form, Vision-S 02 weighs 2,480kg. On the outset, Vision-S 02 looks very futuristic, as most upcoming premium born electric vehicles do. Upfront, the closed-off nose and eye-shaped headlights give it a quirky look.
      A sloping roofline gives it a proper Coupe SUV appeal. Other exterior highlights such as a sculpted bonnet, a wide air dam and a dual-tone paint scheme accentuate its sporty nature. Side profile is dominated by highlights such as designer 20-inch alloy wheels, blacked-out B-pillars and flush door handles. Instead of ORVMs, Vision-S 02 benefits from camera lenses.
      The rear end of the Sony 7 Seater Electric SUV gets a raked windscreen thanks to a sloping roofline and a long stripe of LED taillamp running across the width of tailgate. The design language used by Sony on Vision-S 02 resonates with that from Porsche. Interiors of the new Sony electric SUV boasts minimalism but is loaded with all modern technologies available. The most unique highlight is a fully digital dashboard with a three-screen layout.
      Sony 7 Seater Electric SUV
      Features & Specs
      The panoramic infotainment interface could also be used for video playback or for playing video games via a remote connection to a Sony Playstation gaming console. Other features include a three-dimensional audio system, a panoramic glass roof and most importantly Level 2+ driver assistance systems.
      Powering Vision-S 02 are two electric motors, one on each axle, with a combined output of 536 bhp – sending power to all four wheels. However, the brand has yet to reveal specs regarding its battery configuration and range. Sony has revealed that the upcoming electric crossover will be marketed and retailed under a new operating company called Sony Mobility Inc. which will debut around March-May this year. More