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      in Electric Cars

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

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      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

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      in Electric Cars

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

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      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

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      in Electric Cars

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

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      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

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      in Electric Cars

      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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      in Electric Cars

      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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      in Bike

      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