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      in Bike

      BMW Q3 2024 Sales Stutter, YTD Full Tank

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      BMW India YTD 2024 Sales – January to September, Q3 end.BMW Q3 2024 Sales Slows Down: Not Every Lap’s a Victory Lap
      The company has reported consistent growth in car and motorcycle deliveries YTD 2024. From January to September, BMW car sales reached 10,056 units. The MINI brand contributed 500 units, leading to a combined total of 10,556 vehicles. This represents 10.19 percent increase over the same period in 2023, reflecting a steady performance in India’s competitive luxury car market. Motorcycle deliveries reached 5,638 units, showing a diverse portfolio across both two- and four-wheeled segments.
      BMW Group India’s Q3 2024 performance reflected 6.87 percent overall decline in car sales, with a total of 3,458 units delivered. BMW car sales decreased by 5.68 percent, reaching 3,322 units. MINI saw a drop of 28.80 percent, delivering 136 units during the quarter. BMW’s motorcycle sales dropped by 4.12 percent. Down from 2,111 units.
      BMW Q3 2024 sales
      BMW Q3 2024 Sales Down, YTD Up, Two Tales
      Despite these declines in Q3, year-to-date (YTD) figures from January to September 2024 showed a different trend. BMW car sales rose by 11.76 percent, delivering 10,056 units. MINI car sales are reported at 14.09 percent decline with 500 units delivered. Down from 582 units. Motorcycle deliveries for the same period saw a sharper drop of 16.82 percent, with 5,638 units sold. Overall, BMW Group India’s YTD vehicle sales totalled 16,194 units, showing a slight 1 percent decline compared to the previous year.
      Electric vehicles (EVs) play significant part of BMW’s portfolio. 2024 YTD, BMW delivered 725 electric vehicles YTD 2024, with the BMW i7 being the top seller. Total EV deliveries to date exceed 2,000 units. Popular models like the BMW iX have sold over 1,000 units,. Availability of electric models such as the i7, i5, i4, iX, and iX1 reflects BMW’s expanding focus on electric mobility in India. MINI has also introduced the Countryman Electric, further expanding their EV options.
      BMW 7 Series
      BMW’s Workhorses
      BMW’s product portfolio remains diverse, with long-wheelbase sedans like the 3 Series, 5 Series, and 7 Series maintaining a strong presence in the luxury class. The 7 Series and i7 models, in particular, represent the company’s continued success in the luxury segment. Sports Activity Vehicles (SAVs), such as the X1, make up 55 percent of BMW’s sales. X1 accounted for 20 percent of total SAV sales. The 3 Series is the highest-selling sedan, with a 19 percent share of the company’s sedan sales. This product diversity has solidified BMW’s position in the luxury automotive market.
      BMW Joy Days, a sales initiative, resulted in strong sales for the BMW 5 Series. Over 300 units were sold during the campaign, and the festive order bank exceeds 600 units. Finance plans offered during this period included competitive interest rates as low as 7.75 percent per annum and flexible EMI options starting at Rs 49,999.
      BMW India’s Charging Plan: Fast Chargers
      The company is focused on enhancing its electric vehicle charging infrastructure with a fast-charging network spread across 51 cities. BMW offers additional services like complimentary home chargers with installation and smart E-routing through its “Destination Charging” programme. These services aim to provide convenience to customers and support the broader adoption of electric vehicles in India. An extensive charging network is crucial to support demand for electric mobility.
      The focus on luxury electric vehicles, particularly the BMW i7, remains central to BMW’s strategy in India. This model has become the best-selling electric vehicle within BMW’s portfolio. Growing demand for electric vehicles and the company’s commitment to expanding its EV offerings highlight BMW’s strategic positioning in the premium electric mobility market.
      BMW’s Diverse Lineup: Financing and Product Variety Do the Talking
      BMW’s strong and diverse product portfolio, and finance solutions have positioned the company to capitalise on demand in India. With strong product lines, a comprehensive charging network, and flexible finance options, BMW Group India continues to make strides in the country’s luxury automotive market.
      Vikram Pawah, President and CEO, BMW Group India said, “BMW Group India is scaling new heights with consistent and robust business results. The highest ever car deliveries during January to September this year, reflects the synergy between a successful strategy and an unparalleled customer experience. BMW Group India is changing the game with its long wheelbase product portfolio and a strong electric mobility offensive. Key models like the BMW 7 Series Long Wheelbase, BMW 3 Series Long Wheelbase and BMW X1 are leading in their segments and demand for the new BMW 5 Series Long Wheelbase is overwhelming. Excellence across the entire spectrum of sales, aftersales, processes and customer engagements set our brands apart, creating an intense pull for both existing customers and aspiring individuals who want to enjoy sheer driving pleasure.” More

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      in Electric Cars

      MG Windsor EV Booking Day 1 – Lineup from Pune to Lonavala—how many cars?

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      MG Windsor EVMG Windsor EV booking – Price Tags in Perspective: What’s the Cost of Going Electric?
      In a first, an EV enjoys significant attention, marking an essential development in India’s electric vehicle landscape. First-day bookings reached 15,176 units, indicating enthusiastic consumer interest. your MG Windsor EV booking interest requires an initial payment of Rs 11,000. Deliveries are set to commence on October 12, 2024. The brilliant initial response to MG Windsor EV aligning with the manufacturer’s shift towards electric mobility in the automotive market.
      Pricing plans reveal a starting price (BAAS) of INR 9.99 lakh, with an additional INR 3.5 per kilometre. The outright purchase (includes battery) price for the vehicle is INR 13,49,800 (ex-showroom), positioning it competitively in the CUV segment. This pricing strategy reflects MG’s commitment to making electric vehicles accessible to a wider range of buyers.

      Range Anxiety? MG Windsor EV Aims to Address It
      MG Windsor EV features a 38 kWh lithium-ion battery pack, certified to IP67 standards. With a power output of 100 kW (136 ps) and a torque rating of 200 Nm, the vehicle offers decent performance. You can switch between four distinct driving modes: Eco+, Eco, Normal, and Sport. Allowing drivers to select the mode that suits their preferences/needs.
      ARAI-certified range stands at 332 km, catering to urban commuting needs and enhancing the vehicle’s appeal among customers. This range makes the MG Windsor EV a viable option for those transitioning to electric mobility. Variants available include Excite, Exclusive, and Essence, providing options for diverse customer preferences.
      Free Charging for a Year
      Several industry-first initiatives accompany the launch. Notably, the MG Windsor EV offers a lifetime battery warranty for the first owner. This warranty serves to reassure customers about battery longevity and reliability. Furthermore, owners benefit from one year of free charging at public charging stations through the eHUB by MG app, enhancing convenience.
      The buyback policy adds another layer of attractiveness to the offering. Customers can expect a 60 percent buyback after three years or 45,000 km, encouraging confidence in vehicle ownership. These initiatives signify MG’s proactive approach to fostering customer engagement in the evolving electric vehicle market.
      MG e-Shield Package,Roadside Assistance
      Manufacturer convenience includes the MG e-Shield package, which comprises a three-year unlimited kilometre warranty on the vehicle. This package further strengthens the appeal of the MG Windsor EV by ensuring reliability and peace of mind for buyers. Roadside assistance (RSA) coverage for three years and three labour-free services enhance customer support and ownership experience.
      MG Windsor EV launch reflects a broader market trend toward electric vehicles in India. Growing consumer awareness and interest in electric mobility form the basis of this shift. The Indian automotive segment increasingly recognises the importance of sustainable solutions, aligning with efforts to reduce carbon footprints.
      A Lasting Impact? The Future of MG Windsor EV in India
      As demand for electric vehicles continues to rise, the MG Windsor EV positions itself strategically within the market. Its emphasis on features such as battery warranties and competitive pricing resonates with consumers considering electric options. Demand denoted through first day MG Windsor EV booking trends signals a notable shift in preferences, with customers seeking reliable, efficient, and new age transportation solutions for personal use.
      As a product, MG Windsor EV exemplifies a commitment to customer satisfaction and market adaptability. By addressing key concerns such as battery reliability and charging convenience, MG presents a strong case. And is keeping pace with evolving consumer expectations. As deliveries approach, anticipation surrounding the MG Windsor EV remains high, poised to make a lasting impact on the Indian electric vehicle landscape.
      Satinder Singh Bajwa, Chief Commercial Officer, JSW MG Motor India, said, “We are grateful to our customers who have embraced the MG Windsor wholeheartedly and enabled it to reach the milestone of 15,176 bookings in just one day. This achievement solidifies the MG Windsor’s position as a progressive force in India’s electric vehicle market. As the first EV to reach this benchmark, the MG Windsor’s popularity underscores the increasing demand for sustainable, cost-effective, and rider-friendly transportation choices among Indian car buyers. We are delighted to contribute to this evolution, and remain committed to delivering innovative, intelligent, and eco-friendly mobility solutions.” More

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      in Electric Cars

      2025 Kia Ray EV Launched In S Korea – 27m KRW (Rs 17 Lakh), 233 Kms Range

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      2025 Kia Ray EV LaunchedTo the delight of customers, Kia has not only introduced multiple updates to the 2025 Ray but has also kept prices unchanged
      Launched in 2011, Kia Ray has received multiple updates over the years. It utilizes the same platform as some of the other Hyundai-Kia cars such as Kia Picanto and Hyundai Casper and i10. Kia Ray is available in both ICE and EV formats.
      2025 Kia Ray – What’s New?
      Kia Drive Wise I (ADAS) package for 2025 Ray EV passenger model now comes with more features as standard for all variants. It now offers forward collision avoidance assist (FCA, vehicle/pedestrian/cyclist), cruise control and lane following assist.
      2025 Kia Ray EV Launched
      The heated leather steering wheel now comes with black high-gloss garnish. Other features that have been carried forward include lane keeping assist, lane keeping assist (FCA, vehicle/pedestrian/cyclist), high beam assist, intelligent speed limit assist and driver attention warning with front vehicle departure notification.
      Drive Wise II package available with higher trims of Ray EV includes rear side collision avoidance assist. It also has rear cross traffic collision avoidance assist and safe exit warning. The Style package includes projection headlamps, LED DRLs, LED auxiliary brake lights and LED rear combination lamps. All models of 2025 Ray (EV + ICE) get an indoor fire extinguisher that adds an additional layer of safety. Another update applicable to all 2025 Kia Ray models is the installation of dual horns.
      2025 Kia Ray EV Launched
      Talking about the 2025 Kia Ray gasoline model, features such as air purification mode and full auto air conditioning are now standard with Prestige trim onwards. With the top-spec Signature trim, an electronic parking brake is available as a standard feature. Further improving safety is a bicycle rider recognition function. This has been added to the existing forward collision avoidance assist function. The electronic parking brake is also part of the Style Package. Users who want it can access it even with the base-spec Trendy trim of 2025 Kia Ray.
      2025 Kia Ray EV Launched
      2025 Kia Ray EV prices, battery and range
      For the 2025 Ray EV, Kia has kept the prices unchanged. The 4-seater passenger model Light trim and Air trim are available at 27.75 million won (Rs 17.58 lakh) and 29.55 million won (Rs 18.72 lakh), respectively. The 2-seater van Light trim and Air trim are priced at 27.45 million won (Rs 17.39 lakh) and 27.95 million won (Rs 17.71 lakh), respectively.
      The 1-seater model Light trim and Air trim cost 27.35 million won (Rs 17.33 lakh) and 27.8 million won (Rs 17.62 lakh), respectively. Equipped with a 35.2 kWh battery, the electric mini car offers a driving range of up to 205 km (127 miles) in Korea. Within city limits, it can reach up to 233 km (145 miles).
      2025 Kia Ray EV Launched
      New colour options
      With the 2025 Ray, Kia has introduced a new Adventurous Green exterior colour option. Customers can also choose a new dual-tone gray customizable exterior colour package. It has been updated with black A-pillar and roof, using adhesive film. It helps achieve a sportier profile with other blacked-out parts. For example, there are dark metal front and rear garnish and blacked-out front and rear skid plates. Also, black ORVMs and 15-inch black alloy wheels.
      2025 Kia Ray Gasoline 1.0-litre prices
      1-seater van models are the most accessible, starting at 13.4 million won (Rs 8.49 lakh) for the base-spec Trendy variant. The 2-seater van Trendy model costs 13.5 million won (Rs 8.55 lakh). The 4-seater Trendy passenger model is priced at 14 million won (Rs 8.87 lakh). Top-spec Gravity passenger model of 2025 Kia Ray is available at a starting price of 19.28 million won (Rs 12.22 lakh). More

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      in Electric Cars

      Kia EV9 Flagship Electric SUV Launch Price Rs 1.299 Cr – 561 Km Range

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      Kia EV9 Flagship Electric SUVLike the EV6, Kia’s upcoming EV9 flagship electric SUV will also be brought to the country via the Completely Built Unit (CBU) route
      Kia is expanding its electric vehicle lineup, which currently only includes the EV6, with the new EV9. Showcased earlier this year, the new EV9 is now poised to redefine premium electric mobility in India with flagship-level attributes. The company is bringing EV9 via the CBU route priced at Rs 1.299 Cr (Ex-sh).
      Kia EV9 will be among the few electric three-row SUVs in Indian market. It is offered in one fully loaded top-spec model. Size-wise and segment-wise, Kia EV9 will have no direct rivals in India and is likely to garner the same reception in India seen globally.
      Kia EV9 Flagship Electric SUV
      Kia EV9 Flagship Electric SUV
      The new Kia EV9, based on the Electric Global Modular Platform (E-GMP) architecture, will command a strong road presence. It measures 5,010 mm in length, 1,980 mm in width and stands 1,755 mm tall, and receives a 3,100 mm long wheelbase. This will not only relate to spacious interiors but will also allow for a spacious boot. Ground clearance is 198 mm.
      Its exteriors sports a large closed-off front grille, elongated bonnet, cubed LED headlamps, Z-shaped DRLs and vertically stacked LED tail lamps. It also gets door-mounted ORVMs, flush door handles, rear wiper and spoiler and massive wheel arches. Thick body cladding and functional roof rails will also ensure that the EV9 commands a strong road presence.
      Kia EV9
      Where its interior makeup is concerned, the upcoming EV9 from Kia is both roomy and well-appointed with a host of premium features. The 3 row electric SUV, available exclusively in a seven-seater configuration, comes in with a variety of seating options. These include captain seats with headrests in the middle row with 60:40 split while third row seats receive 50:50 split with remote folding to free up extra cargo space.
      Features also include 12.3-inch dual panel screens for infotainment and instrumentation, a 14-speaker Meridian music system, a wireless charging pad, control switches, 3-zone climate control, a panoramic sunroof and a heated steering wheel. The new EV9 will also sport a digital key, fingerprint recognition and USB-C ports. Expected safety features could include Level 2 ADAS, a 360-degree camera, ten airbags as standard, hill assist control and multiple drive modes.
      Kia EV9
      Battery Pack and Powertrain Specifications
      Where battery pack and powertrain specifications of the Kia EV9 are concerned, the GT-Line AWD variant will receive a 100 kWh battery pack with dual motors offering 379 hp power and 700 Nm torque. It is expected to offer a range of 561 km on a single charge, acceleration from 0-100 km/h in 5.3 seconds to claim a top speed of 200 km/h. The EV9 will be charged from 0-80% via a 350 kW DC charger in under 30 minutes. The EV9 will also sport Vehicle-to-Load (V2L) and Vehicle-to-Everything (V2X) capabilities used to charge various tools and equipment.
      Kia EV9 Specs
      Coming in as a CBU unit, the price of Kia EV9 priced at Rs 1.299 Cr (Ex-sh). Price-wise, it will compete with other electric SUVs in the premium segment. These include the BMW iX, Audi Q8 e-tron, and Mercedes-Benz EQE SUV and the likes. More

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      in Electric Cars

      Skoda Elroq 4.5m Electric SUV Debuts – 82 kWh Battery, 581 Km Range

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      New Skoda Elroq Electric SUVDebuting the new Modern Solid design language, Skoda Elroq is company’s first fully electric compact SUV, positioned below Enyaq
      Skoda has just ushered into a new design era with the debut of its latest Elroq SUV. Featuring the new “Modern Solid” design language, Skoda Elroq aims to offer a sense of robustness, authenticity and functionality. Skoda has unveiled both First Edition and Sportline versions of Elroq.
      Skoda Elroq Debuts
      With the compact SUV segment gaining prominence globally, Skoda has just unveiled its first-ever fully-electric compact SUV. Called Skoda Elroq, it is also the first vehicle from the brand to debut its Modern Solid design language. In India, Skoda is set to launch Kylaq based on the same design language.
      New Skoda Elroq Electric SUV
      On Elroq, we can see a handsome design, which is well executed. The fascia has been divided into two parts. The top part gets sleek LED DRLs along with a slim upper grill. Above this grill, we can see Skoda lettering sitting proudly on the muscular bumper with strong creases.
      Lower part of Skoda Elroq’s fascia houses the LED headlights There is a larger lower grill here that houses the number plate as well. Below it, we can see a silver element in the form of a faux skid plate. Headlights get interesting cuts that extend down and then move towards the centre.
      New Skoda Elroq Electric SUV
      Side profile is similar to what we have seen with Skoda’s 5-seater SUVs. There are sharp creases along with a thick C-pillar. Roof rails and shark fin antennae are notable too. There are large and stylish alloy wheels along with body cladding. Rear is interesting as it gets a smartly designed tailgate with a roof spoiler and boomerang-shaped LED tail lights.
      New Skoda Elroq Electric SUV
      On the inside, we get a large 13-inch free-standing infotainment screen, a fully digital instrument screen, and a HUD. There’s also a three-spoke steering wheel with Skoda lettering, numerous clever storage options, a row of physical buttons, sustainable materials, largest in segment 470 L boot space (1,580 L with rear seat folded) and a lot of interior room for occupants.
      New Skoda Elroq Electric SUV
      Specs and Powertrains
      Skoda Elroq measures 4,488 mm in length, 1,884 mm in width, 1,625 mm in height and has a 2,765 mm long wheelbase. Ground clearance is 186 mm and the kerb weight of Skoda Elroq will go up to 2,256 kg.
      New Skoda Elroq Electric SUV
      Skoda Elroq comes in two variants – Elroq 50 and Elroq 85. Unlike their name suggests, Elroq 50 gets a 55 kWh battery pack (52 kWh net) and Elroq 85 gets an 82 kWh battery pack (77 kWh net). Performance metrics for Elroq 50 include 168 bhp of peak power and 310 Nm of peak torque with 160 km/h top speed and takes 9 seconds to hit 100 km/h. Claimed range is 375 km per charge.
      New Skoda Elroq Electric SUV
      Elroq 85, on the other hand, boasts 282 bhp total system power and 545 Nm total system torque along with 180 km/h top speed, 6.6 seconds to 100 km/h and a claimed range of 581 km. Both Elroq 50 and Elroq 85 are RWD only and they both get rear drum brakes. More

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      in Electric Cars

      MG Windsor EV Bookings Open 3rd Oct – BaaS Prices Rs 10 L to Rs 12 L

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      MG Windsor EV Bookings StartCustomers can access various benefits with Windsor EV such as lifetime battery warranty, free 1-year charging and 60% assured buyback
      In a short span of time, MG Motor has emerged as the second best selling electric car manufacturer in India. The company has a market share of over 21% and currently trails only Tata Motors in the EV space. To strengthen its presence in the electric segment, MG Motor recently launched the MG Windsor EV.
      MG Windsor EV bookings open tomorrow
      Official bookings for MG Windsor EV will commence from tomorrow, 3rd October, 7:30 AM, for a token amount of Rs 11,000. Customers can place their bookings online on MG Motor India website or visit their nearest MG dealership. Deliveries of Windsor EV will commence from 12th October, 2024 onwards. MG has timed the deliveries to coincide with the auspicious festive season.
      MG Windsor EV Prices
      With the addition of Windsor EV, MG Motor now has a total of three EVs on offer in India. Windsor EV is essentially a rebadged version of the Wuling Cloud EV. The latter is sold across select Asian markets such as Thailand and Indonesia. For the Indian market, MG Windsor EV has been positioned as India’s first intelligent CUV (Crossover Utility Vehicle). MG Windsor EV combines the elegance of a sedan with the roominess of an SUV.
      Production of Windsor EV has already commenced at MG Motor’s manufacturing facility in Halol, Gujarat. MG Motor had acquired this plant from General Motors India in 2017. After the acquisition, MG Motor invested over Rs 2,000 crore to carry out a major upgrade of the 178-acre facility. As of now, MG Motor’s state-of-the-art Halol plant has a production capacity of more than 1,00,00 vehicles per annum.
      [embedded content]
      MG Windsor EV purchase options – Standard / BaaS
      While MG Windsor EV is a well-equipped model, MG Motor has made the deal even more tempting with its industry-first initiatives. One of the key components is the unique BaaS program (Battery as a Service), which significantly reduces the upfront purchase cost. Customers choosing the BaaS purchase option can access the Windsor EV at a starting price of Rs 9.99 lakh.
      This is for the base Excite variant. The Windsor EV Exclusive and Essence variants are available at Rs 10.99 lakh and Rs 11.99 lakh with the BaaS program. Customers choosing the BaaS program will have to pay an additional Rs 3.50 per km as battery rental cost.
      For folks who prefer the conventional outright purchase option, the Windsor EV is available at a starting price of Rs 13,49,800. The Exclusive and Essence variants will cost Rs 14,49,800 and Rs 15,49,800, respectively. Other industry-first initiatives include a lifetime battery warranty for the first owner.
      This completely eliminates the worries that people have about battery performance and replacement. Early buyers of Windsor EV will also be eligible for full 1-year free charging at MG’s public charging stations. In addition, MG is also offering assured 60% buyback after 3 years / 45,000 kms with the Windsor EV. More

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      in Electric Cars

      Hyundai Creta EV Interiors Spied – New 4-Dot Steering, ‘Creta Electric’ Branding On Seat

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      Hyundai Creta EV InteriorsApart from the changes needed for an electric car, the equipment list for Creta EV is largely the same as that of new ICE Creta
      As part of its electric portfolio expansion plans, Hyundai is readying the new Creta EV. It is expected to be launched in early 2025. Creta EV will take on rivals such as Tata Curvv, MG Windsor and upcoming Maruti eVX and Mahindra BE.05.
      Creta EV interiors revealed – What’s new?
      As compared to the ICE Creta, the Creta electric has a new steering wheel. It has a 3-spoke design and is a completely circular unit. In comparison, the ICE Creta has a flat bottom steering wheel.
      Hyundai Creta EV Interiors
      While the interiors seem familiar, one can see exclusive ‘CRETA electric’ badging on the upholstery. Creta EV could get new interior theme options and more dynamic choices for ambient lighting. However, such features are not evident with this specific spy image.
      Hyundai Creta EV Interiors
      Most other features in the front row are largely the same as the new Creta. Some of the key highlights include a curvy dashboard, horizontally placed AC vents and dual 10.25-inch screens for the infotainment and instrument console.
      Hyundai Creta EV Interiors
      The central console of the test mule is still a work in progress setup, but it’s evident that most of the panel buttons are borrowed from the ICE Creta. Presence of physical buttons on the central console makes practical sense, although the polished interior aesthetics are slightly compromised in the process.
      Hyundai Creta EV Interiors
      Equipment list
      Creta EV will borrow most of the equipment from the ICE Creta. The latter has dual-tone interiors, leather wrapped steering wheel and gear knob and 8-way power adjustable driver seat. Depending on the variant, upholstery options include fabric and leatherette. Creta EV will get a panoramic sunroof, dual-zone automatic temperature control, front ventilated seats and electric parking brake with auto hold.
      Gear selector is likely to be on the stalk behind steering wheel, like in Ioniq 5. There will be a rotary dial for selecting traction control modes. Users can access smartphone wireless charger, cruise control, keyless entry, rear AC vent and USB charging ports. A comprehensive range of safety features will be available with Creta EV.
      Hyundai Creta EV Interiors
      The list includes 6-airbags, electronic stability control, vehicle stability management, hill start assist control, rear disc brakes and tyre pressure monitoring system. Hyundai Creta EV will have automatic headlamps, headlamp escort function, day and night IRVM, rear parking sensors and camera and front parking sensors. A comprehensive range of ADAS features will be offered with Creta EV.
      Creta EV – Range, performance
      While there is no official confirmation, it is estimated that Creta EV will have a range of around 450 km. With an advanced regen braking system, users can expect a good real-world range of around 350 km. Creta EV is expected to be equipped with a 45-kWh battery pack. The electric motor will generate around 138 hp and 255 Nm of torque. Hyundai will ensure that Creta EV delivers a better overall performance than the ICE Creta. More

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      in Electric Cars

      Hyderabad Nexon EV Fire Case – Court Orders Tata Motors To Refund Rs 16.95 Lakh

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      Hyderabad Nexon EV Fire CaseAs there are technical complexities in the case, the order given by the district consumer commission could be challenged in a higher court
      This case relates to a Nexon EV that had caught fire last year in 2023. The complainant, Mr. Jonathan Brainard, living in Hyderabad, had sought a full refund, citing alleged defects in the Nexon EV. After hearing both sides, the district consumer disputes redressal commission of Hyderabad has ruled in favour of the complainant.
      Allegations made by the complainant
      According to the complainant, he had chosen Nexon EV, as it was rated as one of the safest cars in India with 5-star rating in Global NCAP crash tests. Moreover, the Nexon EV promises optimal comfort, convenience and reliability. While the initial experience was good, the complainant started facing issues within 11 months of using the car. The complainant mentions that the car won’t run even when the battery was showing 18%. Moreover, the normal drive mode could not be engaged. This occurred a couple of times.
      Hyderabad Nexon EV Fire Case
      At the Tata Motors authorized dealer and service centre, it was found that the HV (High Voltage) battery pack was depleted. A replacement was ordered, but it took more than a month. During this time, the owner was asked to drive the Nexon EV without letting the battery charge drop below 50%. When the replacement battery arrived, the complainant was notified that it was a refurbished HV battery pack and not a new battery pack. Since the car was still under warranty, the complainant was expecting a new battery pack. But that was not the case.
      The fire incident occurred around 12 days after installing the refurbished battery. While driving, the owner heard a loud noise originating from somewhere under the car. In a state of panic, the complainant lost control of the steering. The car first collided with a stationed motorcyclist and eventually slammed into a tree. The owner came out of the car and noticed that a fire had started and was spreading. Due to this, all other doors of the car had malfunctioned and were locked shut. In this incident, the Nexon EV was completely destroyed in the fire.
      Response from opposite parties
      In this case, the opposite parties include Tata Motors, Tata Motors Passenger Vehicles and the authorized dealer and service centre. The lawyer representing the opposite parties stated that the fire in this case was caused due to external factors. It was claimed that the accident with the motorcycle or a short circuit in the wiring caused by the collision is likely to have started the fire. Referring to the telematics data analysed by the service centre, it was claimed that there was nothing wrong with the battery or other parts of the Nexon EV.
      Data related to steering wheel movement, speed, application of brakes, etc. indicated that the fire occurred after the collision and not due to any defect in the car itself. For the loud bang the complainant had heard, the opposite parties said that it could come from any external reasons. It was also pointed out that the vehicle had covered more than 24,000 km in a span of around 14 months. This indicated that the vehicle was roadworthy and not defective, as claimed by the complainant.
      The court order
      After hearing both parties, the consumer court has ruled in favour of the complainant. In their opinion, the court concludes that the said car has a manufacturing defect. The court also points out that the actions of the opposite parties reveal unfair trade practices and deficiency in services. The court has ordered the opposite parties to pay the following compensation.

      Refund Rs 16,95,000, which is the original cost of the vehicle.
      An interest of 9% is applicable on the outstanding amount, till the date of realization.
      Rs 2,50,000 to be paid for causing mental agony, physical trauma and inconvenience to the complainant. This amount also covers the treatment cost of and compensation paid to V. Balanarasaiah, the motorcyclist involved in this accident.
      Rs 10,000 to be paid as the costs incurred by the complainant. More