Car News

Subterms

    More stories

    • 163 Shares169 Views

      in Bike

      Electric Vehicle Sales At 1.34 Lakh For FY21 – Cars, Scooters, 3 Wheelers

      by

      Ather electric scooter sales start in DelhiEV segment appears to be on path of recovery after a challenging last year
      Data published by CEEW Centre for Energy Finance (CEEW-CEF) on its electric mobility dashboard reveals that close to 1.34 lakh EVs were sold in FY21. This is lower than the numbers in FY20 and FY19. However, when we look at percentage share of EVs in total vehicle sales of India, the figure is 0.88%. This is the highest ever in a financial year. Cumulative sales of EVs since FY12 have crossed 6.38 lakh units.
      Category wise EV sales
      Three wheeler EVs continue to lead in terms of sales numbers in FY21. A total of 88,378 units were sold, which is 66.04% of total EV sales. Two wheelers are next with sales of 40,837 units. Share in sales is 30.51%. 4-wheeler EVs are placed at third place with sales of 4,588 units. Percentage share in sales is 3.43%. Goods vehicle EV sales were just 28 units in FY21.
      EV Sales FY 2021. Data – CEEW-CEF
      Comparing the data with previous years, three wheeler EVs have lost quite a bit of their sales. Three wheeler EV sales in FY20 were close to 1.41 lakh units. In comparison, both two wheeler and 4-wheelers have registered significant YoY growth in FY21. As for goods vehicle EVs, their sales have been declining since FY18.
      4-wheeler EV segment is expected to register strong growth in the near future, as more than 23 new products are scheduled for launch by FY22. CEEW-CEF’s dashboard also reveals the savings one can make by switching from petrol to an electric vehicle.
      Tata Nexon EV is India’s best selling passenger electric car.
      In Delhi, if a user shifts from petrol sedan to EV sedan, the cost savings work out at Rs 30,000 per annum. In case of two wheeler EVs, the savings work out at around Rs 8k per annum.
      EV sales – statewise data
      Uttar Pradesh, Bihar and Karnataka are the top three states, based on their contribution to EV sales in FY21. Uttar Pradesh alone contributed close to a quarter of overall EV sales. A total of 31,584 EVs were sold in the state in FY21. The top ten states in EV sales contributed around 88% of the overall EVs sold in FY21.
      Data on FAME-II subsidy scheme reveals that there’s a lot more potential to be unlocked in EV space. Only 4.25% of sales targets have been achieved under FAME-II. It is possible that many buyers are still not aware of the various subsidies and benefits available under FAME-II.
      By 2030, total EV sales in the country are expected to cross 14.8 million units. To get there, all stakeholders will have to make efforts to resolve the current set of issues such as range anxiety, lack of readily available charging stations, high upfront cost of EVs, and limited finance options. More

    • 125 Shares99 Views

      in Electric Cars

      2022 Mercedes Benz EQS Electric Debuts With 770 Kms Range

      by

      2022 Mercedes EQS ElectricThe EQS has one of the best aerodynamics with the lowest drag coefficient in its segment of 0.20
      With demand shifting to non-fossil fuel energy sources gaining momentum in the last few years, the German carmaker has a string of new electric cars ready for launch within its dedicated EV sub-brand ‘EQ’. However, the marque isn’t going to compromise on a few things that have earned it the brand image the company enjoys today, one of them being luxury.
      S-Class stands at the top-end of Mercedes Benz’s global lineup and is the epitome of luxury on wheels. The carmaker has now taken the covers off the fully electric version of the luxury sedan called EQS. The electric sedan will be offered in two variants- 450+ and 580 4Matic and is expected to go on sale by the end of this year.
      2022 Mercedes EQS Electric
      Exterior Styling
      EQS is based on the Vision EQS concept that made its maiden appearance in 2019, however, sports a few differences in its actual production form. Its appearance is commanded by Mercedes’ “one-bow roofline” design philosophy that essentially forms a projectile roofline.
      The roof arches back to a heavily angled liftback-style tailgate giving the sedan a sportier appeal than its fossil-fueled sibling. At front end, it gets a black faux grille panel flanked by angular headlights on both sides with a “three-dimensional star pattern”.
      2022 Mercedes EQS Electric
      The headlight clusters are themselves joined by a horizontal light bar. The electric sedan’s body is made of aluminium making it very light for its size and wrapped by a two-tone colour scheme with a contrasting upper half.
      2022 Mercedes EQS Electric
      It features a fixed clamshell bonnet that doubles up as front wheel arches. The doors are frameless as expected from this range of cars and feature the same flush door handles as its IC engine-powered counterpart.
      The electric S-class is built on the brand’s new dedicated EVA (Electric Vehicle Architecture) platform that will also underpin the upcoming EQE. At a length measuring 5265mm, it is closer to the long wheelbase version of S-Class rather than the standard S-Class. Other dimensions read as 1,926mm wide in width and1,512mm tall while the wheelbase measures a staggering 3,210mm. Despite the enormous size, Mercedes claims a very low drag coefficient of only 0.20.
      2022 Mercedes EQS Electric
      Powertrains specs & Performance
      The 450+ trim comes powered by a single rear-wheel biased motor while the 580 4Matic trim comes with a dual motor setup providing all-wheel-drive functionality. The former returns an output of 329 bhp and 458 Nm of peak torque and is capable of sprinting 0-100 kmph in just 6.2 seconds. The latter receives a combined output of 516 bhp and 856 Nm of peak torque while 0-100 kmph acceleration time reduces to a meagre 4.3 seconds.
      However, top speed on both variants have been capped at 210 kmph which results in a more than an impressive driving range of 770km on a single charge as per WLTP cycle. The motors are fed by a 107.8kWh battery pack but Mercedes says it will also offer a smaller 90 kWh battery at the time of launch. The company has also revealed that a more powerful 715 bhp AMG version of the sedan based in the same twin-motor setup as 580 4Matic is in making.
      2022 Mercedes EQS Electric
      Interior & Features on offer
      Step inside the cabin and one would feel that he/she has time travelled to future. The biggest highlight (literally) is the new digital Hyperscreen dashboard which contains three screens, eight CPUs, 24GB of RAM and the latest MBUX software. The cabin is a proper definition of opulence and comes with all bells and whistles one receives in a modern-day car and much more.
      Some feature highlights include a Burmester surround sound system comprising 15 speakers, a rear-wheel steering system, OTA software updates, a panoramic sunroof, multi-zone climate control to name only a few. Safety kit on offer features driver-assist technologies such as lane-keeping assist, steering assist, adaptive cruise control, etc.
      2022 Mercedes EQS Electric
      EQS is slated for an international launch in the US towards the end of 2021 at an expected price of USD 100,000 that translates to approx INR 75 lakh. Indian market is also likely to see EQS on the roads at some stage next year maybe. In India, it will be sold as a CBU. More

    • 150 Shares189 Views

      in Electric Cars

      2021 BYD e6 Electric MPV Spied Testing In India For First Time

      by

      2021 BYD e6 Electric MPVThe second generation e6 which recently went on sale in Singapore is retailed at a price of S$116,888 (equivalent to INR 65,68,162)
      With a wind of new electric vehicles (EVs) slated to make their debut in India at a later stage, the future of mobility is set on the path of electrification. Another prospective EV, BYD e6 has spotted testing in Chennai, Tamil Nadu recently. The electric MPV is expected to hit showrooms in India towards the end of this year.
      Initially, it is expected to be brought as a Completely Built Unit (CBU) under the rule that allows import of 2,500 units per year without the need for homologation. For reference, BYD is a Chinese automotive brand whose shareholdings include American conglomerates General Motors and Berkshire Hathaway owned by Warren Buffet.
      2021 BYD e6 Electric MPV
      The test mule in the latest set of spy shots belongs to the new-gen e6 which recently went on sale in Singapore. The first-gen e6 made its global debut back in 2010 and the new e6 is an advancement over the outgoing model, at least in terms of its styling. The new e6 sports a typical MPV stance with a large window area instead of a boxy silhouette of the previous iteration.
      Exterior & Interior Highlights
      The LED headlights as well as the wraparound taillights are connected through a thick strip of chrome while the front end has been given a perforated treatment. Front bumper is aggressive with a blacked-out skirt and side vents. It gets a sloping roofline with blacked-out pillars giving the MPV a nice contrast.
      2021 BYD e6 Electric MPV
      Inside the cabin, BYD e6 provides a rich experience for driver and fellow passengers with premium features such as a floating 10.1-inch touchscreen infotainment system. The screen could be manually rotated by 90-degrees to switch between portrait and landscape modes. Take detailed look in the walkaround video below.
      [embedded content]
      Other features on offer include a six-way adjustable driver and front passenger seats and an electronic parking brake. Safety kit onboard offers four airbags, ABS with EBS, traction control, hill-start assist and a tyre pressure monitoring system. With third-row seats down, it can offer up to 580 litres of luggage space.
      Expected Specs
      Coming to its specifications, e6 will be powered by the carmaker’s 41 kWh Blade battery pack paired with an electric motor. This powertrain is expected to return a power output of 136 bhp, a sizeable bump from 121 bhp on offer in the first-gen model. It is expected to offer a range of around 500km on a single charge significantly higher from the 400km range of the last iteration.
      BTD will offer a 40 kW AC on-board charger with e6 that has DC charging capability. The lithium-iron phosphate battery can be replenished from 0 to 100 percent within just 90 minutes. Upon its launch in India, it is expected to be priced around Rs. 30 lakh (ex-showroom). E6 is one of the three EVs that e6 intends to launch in India.

      Source More

    • 150 Shares109 Views

      in Electric Cars

      Tata Nexon Electric Records 4k Sales Milestone – Threefold Increase Over FY20

      by

      Image – HemankTata Motors was among the early entrants in the nascent EV space
      Launched last year in January, Tata Nexon EV has emerged as the top selling electric car in the country. It does not have any direct rival in its price range, which gives it a definitive advantage in this segment. Other EVs such as MG ZS EV and Hyundai Kona are both priced above Rs 20 lakh. Nexon EV is available in three variants, priced in the range of Rs 13.99 lakh to Rs 16.40 lakh (ex-showroom).
      Tough year, yet strong sales
      Even when car sales were badly hit by Covid-19 lockdown and related restrictions, Nexon EV has been able to regain its momentum in the subsequent period. Cumulative sales since the time it was launched have already crossed the 4k mark.
      In FY21, total sales stood at 4,219 units. This is a threefold increase, as compared to sales in FY20. In 2021, Nexon EV also created the record of highest ever monthly and quarterly sales. These were recorded in March 2021 (705 units) and Q4 FY21 (1,711 units).
      If we look at 2020 numbers, Nexon EV had topped the list with sales of 2,602 units. Second bestselling EV in 2020 was MG ZS with sales of 1,243 units. Kona EV was placed at third with 183 units. Tata Tigor EV and Mahindra e-Verito had sales of 100 units and 9 units, respectively. Looking at Q4 FY21 sales numbers, it is likely that Nexon will continue to maintain its lead in 2021.
      Tata Nexon Electric
      Nexon EV features and specs
      While Nexon EV’s competitive pricing is one of the key reasons for its popularity, it also scores high in terms of design, performance, range, creature comforts and safety features.
      At the core of Nexon EV is the advanced Ziptron technology that is equipped with an integrated motor controller. Ziptron utilizes a liquid cooled architecture, which ensures consistent performance across varied operating temperatures. Nexon EV packs in a 30.2 kWh li-ion battery that is IP67 certified. The battery has undergone rigorous testing for more than one million kilometres.
      The battery pack sends power to a 3 phase permanent magnet synchronous motor that is capable of generating 129 ps of max power and 245 Nm of peak torque. Nexon EV can reach 0 to 100 kmph in 9.9 seconds and 0 to 60 kmph in 4.6 seconds.
      Nexon EV offers ARAI certified range of 312 km on a full charge. However, the actual range may vary based on variables such as traffic, use of AC, outside temperature and driver skills. To take care of range anxiety, Tata Motors has already installed charging stations at various locations across the country. Several more of these are expected to come up in the future. More

    • 138 Shares199 Views

      in Electric Cars

      2021 Tata Tigor Electric Facelift Spied Almost Undisguised – Launch Soon

      by

      Tata Tigor electric facelift spiedThe latest iteration of Tigor EV will cost a slight premium over the current model that is priced from about Rs 10 lakh, ex-sh
      Tata has been planning to update its most affordable electric vehicle (EV) Tigor for some time now. The electric sedan has been previously spotted testing on a couple of occasions a few months back. A prototype of the updated iteration of the battery-powered car has been spotted yet again that previews the changes made on the car.
      In a video uploaded by ‘The Fat Biker’ on YouTube, two test mules are seen of the facelifted Tigor electric, one partially covered and the other fully wrapped in camouflage. The images indicate that the prototypes spotted were near production-spec models of the electric sedan.
      The upcoming 2021 Tigor EV facelift will wear a similar look to the updated IC engine-powered Tigor which was launched last year. Initially available for government and fleet consumers in India, the electric version of the compact sedan is now also available for general consumers of the country with its availability extending up to thirty cities.
      Updated Exterior Styling
      In line with the Tata design philosophy, Tigor EV facelift will get an updated front face with a new headlight setup along with a new sharper nose featuring a glossy black grille. The front grille is underlined by a thick slat of chrome flanked by projector LED headlamps, LED DRLs and redesigned fog lamp housings. It also gets a revised bumper with wider air intakes.
      [embedded content]
      Like the current model, the upcoming iteration will also come with signature EV stickering on the front grille and other places in order to distinguish itself from the standard Tigor. Higher trims will come with a new dual-tone alloy wheel design along with body-coloured ORVMs while the lower trims will be offered with steel rims and wheel caps along with blacked-out ORVMs.
      At the rear, it will feature a shark-fin antenna and EV badging. Further, blue accents have been incorporated on the grille and alloy wheels to differentiate between the EV and the regular sedan.
      Expected Features on offer
      Moving inside, the cabin features a new multi-functional steering wheel, a new digital instrument cluster and a larger touchscreen infotainment display. The central air-con vents are surrounded by blue bezels. Other features expected to be included are a height-adjustable driver seat, Harman audio system, power windows and more. Safety kit on offer will feature dual airbags, ABS with EBD, rear parking sensors, etc.
      Mechanical Specs
      Mechanically, there won’t be any change in the facelifted Tigor electric therefore there will be no Ziptron technology on offer. The powertrain will feature a 21.5 kWh battery pack paired to a motor that can develop 40.2 bhp and 105 Nm of peak torque. This setup provides a maximum driving range of 213 km while the top speed is limited to 80 kmph. Using an AC charger, the battery could be juiced up in 11.5 hours while using a 15 kW DC fast charger, it could be rejuvenated 0-80 percent in two hours. More

    • 138 Shares129 Views

      in Electric Cars

      MG Cyberster Electric Sportscar Teased – 800 Kms Range, 5G Capabilities

      by

      MG Cyberster Sportscar Teaser
      The MG Cyberster EV is claimed to be the world’s first supercar to have a gaming cockpit
      The MG Cyberster two-door electric sportscar concept has revealed in the form of digital renderings ahead of its world premiere on March 31. The future ready concept will serve as a demonstration platform for the automaker’s technical prowess and design direction.
      MG Cyberster
      Styled by MG Motor’s global design team, the Cyberster derives its inspiration from the yesteryear’s MGB Roadster convertible but it is thoroughly modern machine. The design study’s almond-shaped LED headlamps and narrow slot of a grille play homage to the classic MG sportscars and cabriolets, but the sharp bumper splitters represent futuristic approach.
      MG Cyberster Sportscar Teaser
      The massive wheels have tight clearance with the bodywork, giving the car a race-ready stance. The heavily contoured sheet metal surfaces add a dramatic effect to the electric sportscar’s profile. The Kammback styling of the rear end is another nod to the vintage automotive design, but it is also an aerodynamically sound element which is highlighted by the LED lighting signature.
      What do we know so far?
      Nothing much has been revealed so far but we know that the MG Cyberster concept packs an electric powertrain which is capable of covering 800 km on a single charge. The car is claimed to reach 100 kmph from standstill in under 3 seconds. More details about the motor and battery specifications are expected to be revealed at the time of global debut.
      MG Cyberster Sportscar Teaser
      MG will introduce its next generation connectivity suite on the Cyberster concept which will support 5G technology. It is a sportscar concept but it is also a technology demonstration platform, and so, expect a comprehensive suite of advanced driver assistance systems (ADAS) amounting to at least level 3 autonomy.
      The interiors have not been revealed yet but MG Motor describes the vehicle as the world’s first supercar to be equipped with a gaming cockpit to attract the Gen Z.
      Will it be produced?
      MG has not discussed any plans to come up with a production version of the Cyberster, but it could lead to a limited series model which could be marketed as a brand shaper. The various technologies that are on board will eventually make their way to the automaker’s future products.
      MG Cyberster Sportscar Teaser
      In India, MG is gearing up to introduce the petrol version of the ZS compact crossover which will go on sale as the brand’s most affordable product when it goes on sale later this year. The company is also reportedly working on a new top-end variant of its popular Hector called Savvy. The new variant is question is expected to pack ADAS features like radar-based cruise control, and collision avoidance, in addition to lane departure warning enabled by a windshield-mounted camera. More

    • 188 Shares169 Views

      in Electric Cars

      Vinfast VF e34 Electric Car Debuts In Vietnam – Price 690m VND (Rs 21.6 L)

      by

      Vinfast Electric CarVF e34 uses a 42 kWh battery allowing for a range of 300 kms on full charge
      Vietnamese automotive startup, VinFast is currently developing a range of premium electric vehicles. Today they announced the global debut of Vietnam’s first electric car, called e34. Priced at 690 million VND (US$ 29,819 / Rs 21,63,174).
      Vinfast e34 is open for orders deliveries to domestic customers is set to commence from December. Vinfast has also set up a JV with Taiwan’s ProLogium for the production of Solid-State EV Battery Packs. By 2022, VinFast also plans to export premium electric car models in the D and E segments.
      Vinfast Electric Car
      VF e34 Features
      VF e34, announced earlier this year in Jan 21 under the code name VF31 is a C segment electric car. Early customers who place bookings prior to June 30, 2021 can take advantage of special pricing at 590 million VND (US$25,496 / Rs.18,49,679) along with a 1 year free battery subscription.
      This new electric car in Vietnam measures 4,300mm in length, 1,793mm in width and 1,613mm in height with a wheelbase of 2,611mm. It gets ground clearance at 180mm and commands a total kerb weight of 1,490 kgs.
      Vinfast Electric Car
      It comes in with several driver oriented features along with remote software update, remote customer support, emergency rescue services with location of nearest charging station and authorized dealerships, battery tracking status, vehicle operation history and theft alerts.
      E34 is powered by an electric motor and uses a 42 kWh battery making 110 kW power and 242 Nm torque and offering a range of 300 km on a complete charge. It receives MacPherson front suspension and rear suspension via a torsion bar.
      VinFast offers a 10 year warranty with the VF e34. Users have to pay a monthly battery subscription of US$ 62 per month for a travel distance of 1,400 kgs. As against selling cars with conventional batteries, VinFast is also entering into the battery rental service.
      Vinfast Electric Car
      This will benefit customers as VinFast will bear all risks of quality and battery life and if the battery receives charge below 70 percent, the same can be exchanged for a new battery. Battery charging can be done at the owner’s homes or at VinFast charging stations. 15 minutes of charge will allow for a travel distance of 180 kms.
      VinFast is going about setting up fast charging stations in Vietnam. The company targets around 40,000 electric car charging points in 63 provinces and cities by the end of this year.
      Vinfast Electric Car
      Global Automotive Brand
      VinFast is set to become a global tech automobile brand. Following only 3 years of operations, since inception in 2017, the company plans three smart EV models – VF31, VF32 and VF33 and will receive orders from global markets from the end of 2021. Each of these models will come in with AI and sport state of the art features and will mark an important milestone for the company in an endeavor to become a global smart EV manufacturer. More

    • 163 Shares109 Views

      in Electric Cars

      China’s Mini Electric Car Overtakes Tesla Model 3 – Becomes Best Selling EV

      by

      Wuling Hong Guang Electric CarChinese automaker Wuling Motors sold over 56,000 Hong Guang Mini EVs in the first two months of 2021
      China is not just the biggest car market but also the biggest consumer of electric vehicles (EVs) in the world. This is the reason why Tesla, world’s most popular EV brand, has a lion’s share of its business coming from China. However, Chinese auto brands are now slowly catching up with the American EV giant in their own backyard.
      Sales In January, February 2021
      In a recent development, Wuling Hong Guang Mini EV has trumped Tesla’s Model 3 electric sedan as the highest-selling EV for the months of January and February. This is no small feat considering Model 3 is the best-selling electric car across the globe. As per reports, a total of 36,000 units of the micro electric hatchback have been sold cumulatively in January 2021.
      Wuling Hong Guang Electric Car
      In comparison, 21,500 units of Model 3 were sold during the same period. For February 2021, the numbers stood at just over 20,000 units for the Chinese micro hatch while the American brand was able to retail just under 13,700 units of Model 3.
      Despite being inferior in terms of performance, battery capacity and range to Tesla’s electric sedan, the mini EV ticks the right boxes with respect to convenience and affordability in comparison to its American arch nemesis.
      Wuling Hong Guang Electric Car
      Hong Guang Mini EV Specs
      Hong Guang Mini EV is currently retailed at a price of CNY 28,800 (approximately INR 3.20 lakh). The car is claimed to provide a range of 170km on a single charge while it can clock a top speed of 100 kmph.
      Wuling Hong Guang Electric Car
      Power is obtained from a single electric motor which delivers an output of 17.4 bhp and 85 Nm of peak torque. In terms of dimensions, it measures 115 inches long, 59 inches wide, and about 64 inches tall. It offers a wheelbase of 76.4 inches and tips the weighing scales at just 665kg. Despite its ultra compact dimension, the carmaker claims that it can seat four people at ease.
      Tesla Model 3 Specs
      On the other hand, Tesla Model 3 measures 185 inches in length, 73 inches in width and 57 inches in height. It offers a wheelbase of 113 inches and weighs around 1,587kg. On a single charge, Model 3 could run up to 423km. The base variant of Model 3 carries a price tag of USD 40,000 (equivalent to INR 28.93 lakh). Tesla offers three powertrain options on Model 3 namely Standard Plus, Long Range and Performance. The latter two are offered with a dual-motor all-wheel-drive setup.
      For reference, Wuling is a subsidiary brand of a joint venture between US auto giant General Motors and China’s state-owned SAIC Motor. Tesla is also planning to bring Model 3 to India later this year as a completely built unit (CBU) which is expected to carry a price tag of Rs 60 lakh (ex-showroom). More