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      Ampere Electric Leasing Launched – Zeal Scooter At Rs 2,220 Per Month

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      Ampere Electric has announced its partnership with OTO Capital to offer vehicle leasing plans for buyers
      The partnership enables customers to access lease rental financing within 48 hours of applying for quick documentation process. Consumers can book a vehicle through the OTO Capital website or directly with Ampere Electric. One can also opt for home delivery of a new vehicle.

      A leased vehicle can after a duration be exchanged for another vehicle in the product lineup, though such details from Amprere and Oto are still awaited. The leasing option is available from August 1, 2020 exclusively in Bangalore. Services will be introduced in Pune, Hyderabad, Delhi, Chennai and Cochin by 2020 end.
      Cost of Ampere Electric Leasing Plan
      Cost of monthly payments is significantly reduced for the owner. An Ampere Zeal electric scooter that would cost Rs 3,020 per month using other financial tools, can now be availed at an OMI (Ownership Monthly Instalment) of Rs 2,220 per month. As such, the initial financial commitment for the consumer is lower, making the financial tool easier to access.

      OTO Capital has witnessed an increase in buyer interest since COVID-19 outbreak. As public transport has come to a standstill in most parts, and ride-sharing apps and hailing cabs are not always an option, personal mobility at a reasonable cost in now a consideration as lockdown limitations are lifted in a phased manner, and folks begin returning to work. So an easy to ride, easy on the pocket offering could seem attractive to buyers.
      Ampere says its ‘scooters enable 90% savings as against conventional scooters’. With a long-term lease plan, a new fold of buyers will enter the market. Compared to an EMI based loan plan, a lease plan lets you borrow the vehicle without owning it. This offers great flexibility to buyers who don’t necessarily want to own the same vehicle for years at an end. As the burden of ownership is shifted, related costs too are shifted.
      Where vehicle purchases are concerned, there has always been great dependence on finial tools. With vehicle ownership changing in recent years, the need for wide-ranging financial tools stands in good stead for both, manufacturer and customer. Current Covid-19 pandemic related developments have burdened both buyer, and seller. The option of easy to access financial tools will ease some of that burden.
      Sumit Chhazed, Co-founder, OTO Capital, said “Entering the electric vehicle market is a big win for our company. The partnership with Ampere Electric has come at a time when consumers themselves are very conscious of the choices they make and the impact it makes on the planet. We hope to partner with all their dealers in the major cities to help buyers own their electric bikes at a lower cost.” More

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      Electric Hummer SUV and Pickup Truck teased – 15,591 Nm Torque

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      Hummer Electric SUV and Pickup truck claims 1,000 hp / 15,591 Nm ; 0-100 in 3 seconds
      The ongoing pandemic has impacted almost anyone and everyone around the world, including the unveiling plans of one of the most awaited car of the year, the 2020 Hummer. GM had teased the upcoming electric version of the iconic nameplate earlier towards the start of the year.

      The American manufacturer was supposed to unveil the new generation Hummer around May’20 but had to postpone it to Autumn of 2020 due to delays caused by the Corona Virus. However, the good news is that the company believes that it is on track to commence sales of the electric beast in Autumn 2021 as per initial plans.
      Out of the World Specs
      What makes the Hummer EV so interesting is its specs. It will have an electric power train which will be able to dish out 1,000 bhp and 11,500 lb ft (15,591 Nm) of torque. This high torque figure is the peak motor output and does not entirely translate to real-world performance (in terms of wheel torque). The powertrain will help the Hummer, the huge SUV, clock a 0 – 100 kmph in less than 3 seconds. It will be drawing power from GM’s new Ultium battery pack which will come along with Super Fast Charging and offer a commendable range of around 400 miles (643 kms) on a full charge.

      Hummer Electric battery pack
      Speaking about design, General Motors is planning to model the 2020 Hummer based upon the iconic Hummer H2 which went out of production in 2009, due to bankruptcy filings by GM. The 2020 iteration can be considered as a rejuvenation of the iconic brand, but with an electric power plant this time.
      More Details
      Latest teaser video has further given us more information about the 2020 Hummer. The top-spec Hummer will come along with a new feature called ‘infinity roof’ which will be a removable glass panel. This will help customers to get an open-air driving experience, whenever they wish.

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      The electric pick up will also have an Adrenaline mode, which can be compared with Tesla’s Ludicrous mode. Reports also reveal that GM is planning to add on a Crab mode which will provide some type of 4-wheel steering functionality, but more details are still awaited.
      Production Plans
      GM will be manufacturing the 2020 Hummer at its Detroit-Hamtramck factory in Michigan. GM has planned to invest a whopping 7.7 billion USD in next 4 years to upgrade its factories to build electric vehicles. The Detroit plant where the production of the 2020 Hummer EV is expected to commence is getting upgrades worth 3 billion USD. Production will start in the second half of 2021.
      Post launch, the Hummer EV will be priced to compete with yet to be launched rivals like Tesla’s Cybertruck and the upcoming Rivian R1S. More

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      Hyundai Kona Electric Wonder Warranty options now include 3, 4 and 5 years

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      Hyundai Kona electric is available in two variants with prices starting from Rs 23.85 lakhs
      Hyundai Kona EV was introduced in India in mid 2019. Here, Hyundai Kona features a 39.3 kWh battery pack and 136 hp electric motor. ARAI approved drive range is listed at 452 kms on full charge. The lithium-ion polymer battery is fully charged in 6 hours and 10 minutes through a AC charger. A DC fast charger takes 57 minutes to charge up to 80 percent. 0 to 100 kmph takes 9.7 seconds.

      This EV will cost you Rs 23.85 lakhs for single tone colour option and Rs 24.11 lakhs for the dual tone option. Warranty on offer till date was 3 years / unlimited kms along with battery warranty of 8 yrs / 1.6 lakh kms. Now, Hyundai India has today announced the launch of two more warranty options, under the Wonder Warranty program.
      Hyundai India is offering customized warranty packages for their new cars for some time now. This helps customers to chose the best warranty package for their driving needs. With the Kona, till date only 3 yrs / unlimited kms warranty option was on offer. But from today, customers will also be able to chose from either 4 years / 60,000 kms or 5 years 50,000 kms.
      Depending on how the owner plans to use the car, these customized warranty packages will help them maintain their car more effectively. No matter the warranty package you chose, price is included in the car’s price. Hyundai is also increasing the EV charging network in India. Till date they have installed AC 7.2KW chargers at more than 50 dealerships in 30 cities of India.
      Kona Electric 1 lakh Global Sales

      2020 Hyundai Kona
      Earlier this month it was announced that Hyundai Kona sales globally had crossed the 1,00,000 units mark. Sales totalled to 1,03,719 units by June 30, 2020. The feat was achieved in just over 2 years of sales. Kona EV popularity is widespread, with more than three-quarters total sales having been reported outside its home market, South Korea. Sales in Europe has been noteworthy
      Hyundai has plans to sell over 5,60,000 battery powered vehicles by 2025. Among Hyundai’s prodigious EV lineup, Kona electric SUV plays is destined to play a key role in achieving target sales. Going forward, Hyundai’s BEV platforms will focus on ultra fast charging, and long drive range models.
      2020 Hyundai Kona
      The 2020 model for Europe has an improved drive range, up to 484 kms from 449 kms. This is for the top-end model that features a 64 kWh battery pack and 204 hp electric motor. Hyundai Motor Manufacturing Czech (HMMC) plant in Nosovice, Czech Republic is charged with building the more powerful Kona EV for the European market. This is an important development and requirement to accomplish Hyundai’s EV targets over the next 5-years.
      Production in Europe helps manage delivery schedules to European customers in a more efficient manner. Kona EV supplies from its Ulsan plant to Europe will also be increased. Hyundai had targeted selling upward of 60,000 Kona EV units in Europe alone through 2020. Hyundai’s Czech Republic factory is capable of manufacturing 30,000 Kona EV units annually for the European market.

      Hyundai Kona getting charged at the PlugNgo electric car charging station in Delhi
      And while Europe is making a smarter and responsible choice that doesn’t hurt the earth further when choosing Hyundai Kona EV, in India the offering is a lifestyle product for those who can afford an ex sh price at just under 25 lakhs. The units are imported to India as CKD kits from South Korea.
      Localisation is being undertaken for non-critical components. This includes interior trims and select plastic bits. In 2019, 280 units were sold in India. Hyundai had aims to sell about 500 Kona EV units in 2020. However, under current pandemic conditions that number maybe revised. In tandem with a global move to switch to electric variants, India too harbours what for now appears to be a pipe dream. The electric shift dialogue doesn’t define a plan as to how the country is going to adapt to EVs. However, when such an outline is more definitive, Hyundai will expand its EV lineup in the country to include a sub-10 lakh electric vehicle. More

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      Hero Electric scooter Subscription plan launched from Rs 2,999 per month

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      Hero Electric has partnered with Autovert Technologies to bring subscription-based financing plans to customers
      This brings a range of alternative ownership models for Hero Electric scooter owners. Through the partnership, Autovert lets Hero Electric customers opt for subscription-based plans at an ‘all-inclusive price’. Subscription starts at Rs 2,999 per month. The all-inclusive subscription plans account for the vehicle itself; bundled services including comprehensive insurance, service and maintenance; loyalty bonuses; and upgrade options.

      Subscription plans on offer are curated to meet customer demand for alternative ownership options that come with added flexibility and features over traditional auto finance. Autovert will use its IOT based tech platform, Autovert Plug to manage the subscribed vehicle through its lifecycle. As a pilot project, Autovert Plug Subscription plan was introduced with select dealers in Bangalore prior to a national launch.
      Benefits
      With Hero Electric and Autovert coming together, those interested in electric scooters can now access a wider buying voice where financials are the focus. Both brands strive for a hassle-free EV purchase experience. Hero Electric has further plans to rejig customer experience.

      File photo.
      Electric vehicle adaption in India hasn’t seen much participation from passenger car buyers. Of course the electric car availability in the country is quite small. Scooters however is an altogether competitive space tough volumes are still small. Apart from electric public transport vehicles, and e-rickshaws, electric scooters are beginning to shape a segment.
      Curating convenient finance plans will help customers access wide-ranging finance options. Electric vehicles are not yet mainstream discussions but that doesn’t hamper people’s natural curiosity and affinity for cleaner vehicles. Traditionally, the Indian two-wheeler market is a humongous one. As such, seeing demand, it’s not difficult to foretell that the electric scooter segment will one day come into its own. The space is an epitome of diversity with manufacturers of pedigree, new manufacturers, local and foreign tech, fin and tech companies all trying to get a slice of the pie.
      Financing for EVs
      Sohinder Gill, CEO, Hero Electric said, “Ease and convenience are one of the most valued aspects of buying any vehicle. Unfortunately, EV sector does not experience much ease and joy when it comes to financing. Through our collaboration with Autovert, we are determined to offer singular experiences of buying and owning Hero Electric vehicles without much fuss. While we are witnessing a growth in the EV sales, it is of utmost important to also offer rich experiences to our customers and make their experience of owning an electric vehicle hassle free.
      As sales volumes rise, this partnership with Autovert will simplify and facilitate EV sales in India while giving Hero Electric buyers the ease that is priceless. We are glad to have partnered with Autovert to bring the power of IoT backed finance asset monitoring and management and be a pioneer in this ecosystem of re-imagining auto finance.” More

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      KTM EMotion Electric Scooter Concept Sketch – Looks Sharp

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      The European-funded EMotion research project will use two technology demonstrators to develop a versatile, scalable and cost-effect EV architecture
      A sketch of what is purported to be Bajaj Chetak-based KTM electric scooter is doing rounds on the internet. While it does have KTM branding on it and clearly derives its design inspiration from the manufacturer’s E-Speed electric scooter concept, it is certainly not related to Chetak.
      KTM EMotion Concept – Background

      The project EMotion is a European-funded research project which involves 11 partners with Austrian Institute of Technology (AIT) taking the lead. KTM Technologies GmbH and KTM AG are also part of this 3-year research project which aims to develop inexpensive, energy-efficient and comfortable electric two-wheelers belonging to European Category L electric bicycles. What you see in the sketch is merely a representation of one of the technology demonstrators which will be realized during the course of the project.
      The project aims to develop zero-emission two wheelers for young (16-18 years) and older (50+ years) generations with reduced footprint and improved environment friendliness compared to conventional two wheelers.
      EMotion Research Project – Key Focus Areas

      The research project will attempt to eliminate the weaknesses of current electric two wheelers by developing modular, scalable and highly efficient electric drives and batteries, with specific focus on reducing manufacturing and maintenance costs. Several technologies will be explored to maximize energy efficiency in addition to improving stability and handling.
      The research objectives are split into three areas namely, 1. innovative lightweight construction and component arrangement, 2. highly efficient electric drive and charging components, and 3. user-oriented human-machine interface together with a novel on-board information system.
      Next Plan
      Two technology demonstrators (one 4 kW and one 8 kW unit) are slated to be built in the first 8 months of the project. With KTM being the only two wheeler OEM among the 11 partners, we expect both the EMotion demonstrators to be built by the Austrian firm. The test prototypes will undergo pilot trials for 8 months in urban and rural environments around Salzburg area.
      So, to recap, the KTM EMotion is not a product but a research platform which is expected to spawn several commercially viable technology solutions for compact zero emission mobility. Most of these solutions can be expected to be implemented on future KTM electric vehicles. The European research project is scheduled to conclude in February 2023.
      Bajaj KTM synergy on electric scooters
      KTM is indeed working on several electric two wheeler projects most of which will be made by Bajaj Auto in India. Bajaj will also develop its own versions based on the KTM electric two wheeler architecture. So, we won’t be surprised if we find solutions developed by EMotion research project on board future Bajaj EVs.
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      Zoomcar to offer electric 3 wheelers on their platform – Partners with Eto Motors

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      Zoomcar and Eto Motors have signed an agreement to make available a range of platform services for Eco’s electric, and three-wheeler biz
      Henceforth, Zoomcar’s platform will be used to access Eto Motors’ operated electric three-wheelers for shared, first and last mile passenger commute needs. One will also be able to book transport vehicle for goods movement within cities.

      Zoomcar has for the longest time been making available private cars on its platform to for private rentals. Those who offer their car as part of the Zoomcar fleet are compensated by the company, and have to follow guidelines so the cars are worthy of being rented. For Zoomcar rentals, the company also has manufacturer tie-ups that enables it to list a wide ranging and sufficient fleet to be able to meet customer demand.
      Zoomcar and Eto
      With this new association, Eto Motors will be able to introduce a fleet of smart electric vehicle mobility solutions. Eto already has its brand smart vehicles for first mile and last mile connectivity service in Noida Metro. The company is focused on expanding its footprint, and widen its reach based on opportunities in the first mile, last mile, and intracity passenger, and goods movement segments.

      And the complete development focuses on EV adaption. For Zoomcar the opportunity comes in the form of EV adaption, and new segments. As the brand is identified primarily as a car rental company, with Eto Motors’ vehicles on offer, its operations expand to shared mobility, CVs, and transport.
      How quickly India is able to make noticeable EV adaption a norm depends on a range of bottlenecks that need to be addressed. As such, for now, public transport vehicles seem one way to do it.
      Transformation of mobility industry
      Greg Moran, CEO & Co-Founder, Zoomcar, in a statement said, “The mobility industry is going through a transformational phase globally due to the pandemic. At Zoomcar, we strive to be at the forefront of creating innovative solutions that can help shape this transformative shift. Through this partnership with ETO Motors, we aim to leverage our AI-based platform to enable large fleet operators to better manage their assets through greater vehicle safety and lower total operating costs. We are delighted to partner with ETO Motors on the next phase of their growth journey in India’s rapidly expanding EV market.”
      Biju Mathew, CEO, ETO Motors, said, “The next phase of collaboration between our respective companies with respect to the development of the co-branded digital platform will undoubtedly mark a significant step forward for the industry.” More

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      Maruti 800 electric RWD with 378 Nm torque – Watch owner having fun

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      Pune-based EV specialist Hemank Dabhade has reached the final stages of his Maruti 800 EV conversion project
      Maruti Suzuki India Limited (MSIL) discontinued the iconic Maruti 800 in 2010 as the hatchback could not meet the then-new emission norms and safety regulations. In the minds of Indian automotive enthusiasts, the ‘800’ holds a special place since it has got a strong nostalgia factor associated with it. We are sure that your family or someone close to your family might have had a Maruti 800 back in the day.

      In its last iteration, the Maruti Suzuki 800 came with a 796cc MPFI three-cylinder petrol motor churning out just about 37bhp and 59Nm while mated to a 4-speed gearbox. The higher 5-speed variant made roughly 47bhp and 62Nm of torque. Clean examples of the car still find decent value in the used car market. On the other hand, the original SS80 generation has already become a collector’s item.
      The current-gen Maruti Suzuki Alto BS6 fails to match the Maruti 800’s charm despite being its closest successor. This is purely due to the emotions surrounding the ‘800’ since the Alto is much more technically improved. Maruti Suzuki might never bring back the ‘800’ nameplate (at least in the foreseeable future), yet many Indians look forward to a modern-day avatar of the hatchback.

      Loaded with sports seats, sports steering, touchscreen and a lot more – Modified Maruti 800 electric
      How about an Maruti 800 modified Electric?
      It has been a while since Pune-based EV specialist Hemank Dabhade started working on an all-electric Maruti 800 with his team at Northway Motorsport. The project, dubbed ‘Maruti 800 EV’, has reached its final stages and Hemank has documented the same (one of four parts) on his YouTube channel. Over the months, we have also shared Hemank’s other interesting projects such as the Chevrolet Beat EV and Honda Activa EV.
      Northway Motorsport’s Maruti 800 modified Electric is essentially a two-seater RWD city car that promises ample performance and driving fun (watch the owner perform powerslides, thanks to 378 Nm torque, towards the end of the video below). Its real-world driving range is claimed to be about 150km on a full charge. This is purely a developmental or research project aimed to showcase the potential of electric powertrains in a familiar platform.

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      The four-part YouTube series gives a rough idea of what goes into making an electric vehicle. It covers how the stock powertrain is stripped out from the petrol-powered Maruti 800, alterations done to the donor chassis, electric powertrain packaging, minor hiccups along the way, cosmetic enhancements (new six-spoke rims, front grille, steering wheel, etc.) and more.
      Key highlights
      Episode 4 starts with a brief recap of the processes mentioned above. The main electronics, battery-pack (an extra set lies in the ‘frunk’) and their cooling systems are placed at the rear, in place of a bench seat. This is covered by a flat luggage floor. At the front, Northway Motorsport has installed a custom touchscreen panel based on a Raspberry Pi single-board computer. It incorporates real-time battery usage, motor and control temperature; output calibration and the basic drive modes: Forward, Neutral and Reverse.
      The main highlight is the addition of HHA (synonymously used with ‘Hill-start Assist’ nowadays). It helps the car remain stationary on a downward slope until the accelerator pedal is pressed. Finally, Hemank does some powerslides in his Maruti 800 EV — proving that small RWDs can be fun irrespective of the powertrain type. More

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      BattRE electric scooter to offer Finance, EMI to all – Even those without CIBIL score

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      BattRE Electric Mobility Pvt Ltd, has partnered with ZestMoney EMI financing platform
      Finance plans are curated in such a way so that customers can buy BattRE Electric scooters with affordable and transparent credit. ZestMoney extends financing to even customers with no previous CIBIL score. This bit is important because in modern society, you are your credit store. A positive score is meant to be predictive of whether or not you are a good risk for financial institutions to extend a loan to.

      Given the pattern of handing over wages in cash or simple people’s yearly earning being below the starting taxation limit, loads of people never end up with a CIBIL score. And that means, you can’t access financing. ZestMoney EMI financing appears to be addressing that gap by making the bike accessible to those who don’t pre-qualify for loans.
      The finance plans curated are applicable for all BattRE electric scooters – BattRE IOT, BattRE One, BattRE Lo:EV and BattRE Gps:ie. While BattRE electric scooters are new-ish as a company, they are already available across 12 states. Potential customers can complete KYC formalities online, and depending on determine factors, may not have to visit a dealership.

      Process
      Requesting finance schemes can be completed remotely, and approval is usually concluded in a few hours. One can choose 0 percent EMI tenure of 3, 6 or 12 months for repayments. With lockdown looming overhead, there’s no definite way of knowing for how long we need to safely maintain physical distancing. This means overcrowding in public transport vehicles is halted at present, and may be a norm for an indefinite period.
      This would mean, commuters would look for personal mobility options in order to ensure a safe and convenient commute. A Frost and Sullivan study points to e-rickshaws, e-autos, and e- two-wheelers as most promising segments for electrification in India. estimates point to over 4-million sales by 2025. The same study suggests 30-40 percent of scooters India will be electric vehicles in 7-8 years.
      Pankaj Sharma, Co-Founder of BattRE Electric Mobility, said, “At BattRE, our belief is to focus on affordability, convenience & ease to our customers. Our partnership is a step towards making electric scooters affordable to everyone especially during Covid. This EMI facility provided in partnership with Zest Money will enable customers to book and enjoy riding BattRE electric scooter which is an aspiration for millennial’s and working professionals.”
      With folks on the lookout for EMI financing options to make purchases, current situations dictates a need for contactless and digital means of credit. ZestMoney, the approach is fully automated for data driven loan disbursal model. Affordable financing options would help making purchases possible. More