More stories

  • in

    Mahindra BE.05 EV Interiors Spied – Electrifying Acceleration On Ghats (Video)

    Mahindra BE.05 EV Interiors SpiedAmong the five INGLO-based SUVs showcased, Mahindra BE.05 EV is likely to be the most popular owing to its expected size and pricingStrategies for Mahindra’s electric vision have been unfolded in the past couple of years. The Indian auto giant is launching five new electric SUVs based on its born electric INGLO platform. Most affordable of these five is BE.05 which is poised to be the most flamboyant compact electric SUV in India or even the world.Mahindra BE.05 Production Interiors SpiedFor the first time ever, we got a sneak peek at the upcoming Mahindra BE.05’s interiors thanks to automotive enthusiast Amanjot Singh Dua. Mahindra is currently testing BE.05 along with XUV.e8 and XUV.e9 for varied altitudes, temperatures and terrains. So, test mules have been spotted in both deserts as Himalayan mountains.Mahindra BE.05 EV Interiors SpiedWhile there have been innumerous sightings of BE.05’s exteriors, this is the first time production-spec interiors have been leaked. We can see a lot of similarities with Mahindra BE.05 concept showcased at M.A.D.E headquarters in UK. At the event, Mahindra promised most design highlights to be carried over to production model.The company is staying true to its word. Overall layout of BE.05’s interiors looks very similar to its concept. A pronounced split with Bronze finish between driver and passenger lends a cockpit-like feel. Design elements like the twin-spoke hexagonal steering wheel along with a vertical bronze strip at the top and touch and toggle steering controls stay true to its concept.Mahindra BE.05 EV Interiors SpiedIn the centre console, dial from the concept is retained. It might control terrain modes or drive modes. There might be a yacht-like dedicated gear selector and electronic parking brake in this area too. We can also see three digital sliders that could be used to control volume or interior lighting brightness or sunshade or sunroof.Mahindra BE.05 EV Interiors SpiedCar’s interiors were riddled with testing equipment, wires, hose pipes and whatnot. Another notable element we can grasp from BE.05’s interior is frameless IRVM that we saw with newly launched XUV 3XO and white leatherette upholstery with perforations that are likely to have ventilation function.Altitude testing and overtaking in Leh LadakhBE.05 is currently under altitude testing too and has been spotted trundling along the highway between Leh and Kargil. Thanks to automotive enthusiast Lakshmi Prasad, we have a glimpse of Mahindra BE.05’s instant and electrifying acceleration as it overtook a truck in the twisties.[embedded content]There is a good possibility of it being the higher-spec dual motor AWD variant. Battery capacity could be around 60 kWh+ and will feature a single-motor version as well. When launched, it will rival the likes of MG ZS EV, Hyundai Creta EV, Maruti Suzuki eVX and its arch-rival is the upcoming coupe-styled Tata Curvv EV.BE.05 is likely to be the volume generator (among INGLO-based EVs) for Mahindra owing to its sheer design and segment positioning. It is the smallest among all XUV.e and BE vehicles showcased and will appeal to masses. It has wild written all over its design and looks futuristic and aggressive with a massive road presence. More

  • in

    2025 Kia EV6 Facelift Debuts – Bigger Battery, Sharper Design, India-Bound

    2025 Kia EV6 Facelift DebutsThe new 2025 Kia EV6 facelift brings iterative updates in design, powertrain and equipment, while packing a bigger batteryKia’s critically acclaimed EV6 has been detrimental in establishing the brand as a high-performance electric car manufacturer for enthusiasts. We have to note that EV6 is Kia’s foray into electric mobility solutions and is a big deal. So, the 2025 Kia EV6 facelift debuts ahead of launch, is an important launch for the brand. Let’s take a look.2025 Kia EV6 Facelift DebutsIf there was one vehicle that put Kia on the global electric vehicle map, it has to be EV6. Offered in RWD and AWD along with a high-performance GT trim, Kia EV6 has managed to appeal to both sensible buyers and thrill-seekers alike. The car’s sleek and crossover design is well-received and is eye-candy.2025 Kia EV6 GT-LineThe new MY25 Kia EV6 builds on these attributes and emerges as a fitting replacement to an iconic vehicle that started Kia’s electric mobility journey. However, this is a mild mid-life journey and the design changes are more evolutionary than revolutionary.Most prominent of these design changes include a refreshed fascia. The eyebrow-like LED DRLs of current model have been replaced with much sleeker and stylistic C-shaped elements that lend a sporty aura. Base EV6 Air and mid-spec EV6 GT-Line feature slight design differences for distinction.[embedded content]Where Air gets a Tiger Nose grill, GT-Line gets a connecting LED bar in the middle. Starmap adaptive LED headlights are now sleeker and blend in well with overall design of both trims. GT-Line gets a slightly more sportier front bumper, for added aggression. Air gets a choice of 19-inch and 20-inch alloy wheels, while GT-Line gets unique 20-inch alloy wheel designs.At the rear, there are hardly any changes with a few nip and tuck measures here and there. Where the rear bumper on EV6 Air looks a little sober, GT-Line spruces things up quite nicely. We should expect more aggression with top-spec GT trim whenever it breaks cover.2025 Kia EV6 AirNew and bigger batteryOn the inside, we get a new 2-spoke steering wheel with off-set Kia badge on Air model, while GT-Line gets a sportier 3-spoke steering. New here, is an electric adjustment with steering column. Dual 12.3-inch displays running ccNC UI are positioned in a new housing. Other than these, there are very few changes with dashboard, centre console and door trims continue as they were.Safety features include up to 10 airbags, Highway Driving Assist Level 2 semi-autonomous driving software, updated smartphone as a key feature, remote Smart Park Assist function with diagonal parking support and a built-in dashcam. The new 84 kWh battery is a nice upgrade from the old 77.4 kWh unit and promises upto 494 km range in South Korean testing.2025 Kia EV6 InteriorDespite the increase in battery size, Kia claims 0 to 80% charge in 18 minutes from a 350 kW DC fast charger. Single motor RWD configuration comes with 225 bhp peak power and 350 Nm peak torque, while dual-motor AWD config promises up to 320 bhp peak power and 605 Nm peak torque.Also read – Hyundai Ioniq 5 facelift debuts with larger battery More

  • in

    New Bajaj Electric 3W Launch Planned To Take On Cheap e-Rickshaws

    Image for illustration onlyRajiv Bajaj has announced plans to launch an affordable electric 3W which will rival unbranded Rickshaws made from illegal import kitsBajaj Auto, a global leader in the manufacturing of 3-wheelers (3Ws), stands as a cornerstone in India’s automotive landscape, excelling in both the two-wheeler (2W) segment within the passenger vehicle (PV) space and the 3W segment within the commercial vehicle (CV) arena.Bajaj’s Affordable Electric Rickshaw ProjectRenowned for its pioneering strides in electric 3Ws, the company is now embarking on a mission to create a more accessible electric 3W platform, with the aim of steering Indian consumers away from unbranded import kits and towards safer, more reliable options.Image for illustration onlySpeaking with CNBC TV18, Rajiv Bajaj, the MD of Bajaj Auto, confirmed the company’s ongoing efforts to develop an affordable electric 3W vehicle. This vehicle, envisioned as a versatile platform, holds the promise of spawning multiple body styles in the future, catering to a diverse range of consumer needs.As a key player in the global 3W market, Bajaj feels a sense of responsibility to drive the segment forward in the right direction. Mr Bajaj emphasizes the substantial market potential of the electric rickshaw sector, estimated at approximately 50,000 to 60,000 units. However, he expresses concerns regarding the dominance of cheap, unbranded products comprising imported kits, which often fail to meet safety standards, posing significant risks on the road.Recognizing this market niche as a lucrative opportunity, Bajaj is committed to developing an affordable offering that matches the pricing of unbranded electric rickshaws while surpassing them in terms of quality and safety. The primary target demographic for this initiative, according to Bajaj, is North India, encompassing regions such as Delhi, Uttar Pradesh, Bihar, and others.While Bajaj may not currently have a foothold in this specific segment, Rajiv Bajaj hints at an impending unveiling. When questioned about a potential launch timeline, he suggests that the introduction of this budget-friendly electric 3W from Bajaj is imminent, promising a transformative impact on the Indian electric vehicle market.Bajaj’s Venture into Affordable Electric TransportationNotably, the company has made significant strides in offering a robust portfolio of Compressed Natural Gas (CNG) 3Ws, which have gained popularity both in the Indian market and in various export destinations.Bajaj has also made notable inroads into the realm of electric 3W mobility solutions, gaining considerable momentum in the process. Presently, the company offers the EV RE electric 3W rickshaw (also known as a tuk-tuk) and the Maxima XL Cargo, both powered by the E-TEC 9.0 powertrain, featuring an 8.9 kWh battery. For those seeking greater power and capacity, Bajaj also offers the Maxima XL Cargo with the E-TEC 12.0 powertrain, boasting an 11.8 kWh battery.In terms of pricing, the Bajaj EV RE E-TEC 9.0 starts from Rs. 3.65 lakh, while the Maxima XL Cargo E-TEC 9.0 begins at Rs. 4.04 lakh, and the Maxima XL Cargo E-TEC 12.0 starts from Rs. 4.5 lakh (all prices ex-showroom). These competitive prices underscore the pressing need for an affordable electric 3W rickshaw in the market.Source More

  • in

    Mahindra XUV400 EV Facelift Based On XUV 3XO Incoming? New Variants Homologated

    Image for illustration onlyWhen launched, Mahindra XUV400 EV facelift will continue to rival MG ZS EV and Tata Nexon EV LR and the likesNew homologation documents filed by India’s de facto SUV manufacturer, Mahindra, sparks a few interesting questions. The company is on the verge of launching a new trim lineup for its electric offering, XUV400. Currently, we only have two trim levels – EC Pro and EL Pro. These will be replaced with a newer trim hierarchy.Mahindra XUV400 EV Facelift Incoming?Mahindra has homologated a new trim hierarchy with its electric offering XUV400. Currently, XUV400’s current trim hierarchy has EC Pro and EL Pro. Mahindra is keeping the EC and EL main trim levels intact. But the Pro suffix has been dropped in favour of new characters.Mahindra XUV400 EV New Variants HomologatedIn effect, EC will get L, L(O) and LL variants, while EL will get LL(O), LH, LH(O), PH and PH(O). Mahindra XUV400 EC L is the base variant, whereas EL PH(O) seems to be top-spec variant. Dimensions remain the same as current model. Launch timeline for the new trim hierarchy is not known yet.If you have been following developments from the house of Mahindra, you must be aware of the fact that the company updated XUV400’s trim hierarchy just a few months ago. So, why change their mind regarding trim hierarchy in just three or four months? Homologations are tedious affairs.Mahindra XUV 3XO Panoramic sunroofWhy though?Mahindra is likely to be facelifting XUV400 with the recently launched XUV 3XO’s design and styling. Now, the updated trim hierarchy makes a lot of sense as the company seems to be spreading out the excessive features seen on XUV 3XO in many variants to offer varied pricing with upcoming XUV400 facelift.Will get new Interiors with soft touch materials, L2 ADAS, panoramic sunroof, and more from XUV 3XO aboveInterestingly, Mahindra is retaining XUV400 name and not replacing it with XUV 4XO as they did with XUV300. That’s because Mahindra doesn’t have XUV 4XO trademark. The new naming scheme only has odd numbers in them (XUV 5XO and XUV 7XO) and XUV400 is not one of them. Expect XUV700 facelift to be named XUV 7XO.Where design is concerned, Mahindra XUV400 facelift will be almost identical to XUV 3XO, only slightly longer and a lot more proportionate. Fascia with large LED DRLs, 17-inch wheels, rear connected LED tail lights, Level-2 ADAS, panoramic sunroof, soft-touch plastics and other recently added attributes from XUV 3XO will be carried over to XUV400 facelift.Powertrains-wise, Mahindra XUV400 facelift gets around the same 34.5 kWh and 39.4 kWh batteries as before. There seems to be a sole 150 PS electric motor. Smaller 34.5 kWh battery is sourced from LG Chem, while larger 39.4 kWh battery has two sources, one being LG Chem and the other is Farasis.Also read – Mahindra launched XUV700 Blaze Edition More

  • in

    Kia EV3 Compact Electric SUV Teased Ahead Of Global Debut

    Kia EV3 Compact Electric SUV – Concept Vs Production Model TeasersWhere dimensions are concerned, Kia EV3 compact electric SUV might be positioned between Sonet and Seltos at around 4.2m lengthWith ambitions to be recognised among the leading electric car manufacturers of the world, Hyundai and Kia have been pushing the envelope for some time now. The duo’s efforts reflect in their born electric portfolio. Newest of the bunch is Kia EV3 which is set to be globally unveiled on May 23rd, 2024. Ahead of that, Kia has officially released teasers to give a glimpse of its upcoming eSUV. Kia EV3 Compact Electric SUV TeasedNot so long ago, Kia officially revealed EV3 and EV4 concepts. While EV3 is an electric SUV, EV4 takes a different route and is a crossover electric sedan-style vehicle. Production-spec EV3 has been teased by Kia for the first time. EV3 is highly likely to make its way to our shores. When launched, it will be positioned below Kia EV6 in brand’s electric portfolio.Kia EV3 TeasersThe EV3’s exterior design is showcased in the teaser images, highlighting its bold, geometric, and robust aspects. The vehicle’s dynamic styling is also emphasized in these images. Kia EV3 boasts boxy rear fenders, tailgate, and signature Star Map lighting contributing to a unique identity.Comparing to the Kia EV3 concept, we can see slightly redesigned LED headlights and DRLs at the front. However, rear seems to have been carried over as they were in the concept. The sculpted body adheres to Kia’s trademark ‘Opposites United’ design philosophy. The same design language can be seen in other Kia cars including their flagship EV9.Kia EV3 TeasersIncorporating innovative technologies, Kia aims to broaden its EV range to include affordable options for the masses and that is where EV3 seems to blend in. Kia has promised a comprehensive range of equipment with EV3. On the inside, we can expect eco-conscious attributes and a similar minimal design theme as EV6.What to expect from Kia EV3?A lot is riding on Kia EV3’s success. Kia aims to deliver an elevated customer experience derived from its flagship models into compact SUV segment where EV3 will fall. Considering that Kia is calling EV3 a ‘compact SUV’, we expect it to be slightly larger than Sonet and slightly smaller than Seltos at around 4.2m length. Think Mahindra XUV400.Kia EV3 TeasersAt this size quotient, we can expect relatively affordable pricing. This way, EV3 is set to accelerate faster transition to EVs and play a crucial role in expanding company’s reputation as an electric car manufacturer for the masses.Kia EV6 will be launched later this year and is expected to go on sale immediately. World premiere is later this month on May 23rd, 2024. We can expect around 150 bhp motor drawing power from a 40 kWh to 45 kWh battery pack promising around 400 km to 500 km range on a single charge.New Kia EV3 Concept New Kia EV3 Concept More

  • in

    New MG Electric Hatchback Spied While Charging At A Hotel In Agra

    New MG Electric HatchbackAcross international markets, MG Cloud EV is sold under the Wuling brand in Indonesia and as the Baojun Yunduo in ChinaPost the JV between MG Motor and JSW Group, the new entity has envisioned a major product onslaught for the Indian market. There are plans to launch new models every 3 to 6 months in India. Electric vehicles will be among the focus areas. One of the new upcoming products is the MG Cloud EV.MG Cloud EV spied in India – Key featuresWith its curvy, aerodynamic profile, the MG Cloud EV is naturally pleasing to the eyes. Furthermore, the unique design appeals to folks who are looking for exclusivity. Some of the key highlights include polygonal headlamp housings with automatic LED lights, full-width LED light strip on top and an appealing mesh-type lower grille.New MG Electric Hatchback – Cloud EVHat tip to automotive enthusiast Samarth Agarwal for the images. Side profile is distinguishable with blacked out B and C pillars, dual-tone rear view mirrors with integrated turn signals, unique 18″ Ferris-shaped alloy wheels and flushed door handles. At the rear, MG Cloud EV has eye-catching connected tail lamps, rear defogger and a powered tailgate.Dimensionally, MG Cloud EV is 4,295 mm long, 1,850 mm wide and 1,652 mm tall. It has a wheelbase of 2,700 mm. That’s slightly shorter than Ertiga’s 2,740 mm, but longer than Renault Triber’s 2,636 mm wheelbase. MG Cloud EV is underpinned by the E260 EV platform. There’s plenty of boot space (606 litres with Wuling Cloud EV), which can be further increased with the rear seats folded.New MG Electric Hatchback – Cloud EVMG Cloud EV – InteriorsWith intelligently designed interior spaces, MG Cloud EV offers ample legroom and headroom for all passengers. While the equipment list can vary from country to country, one can expect the India-spec model to offer a comprehensive range of comfort and convenience features.MG Cloud EV RearSome of the key highlights include soft touch interiors and ergonomic synthetic leather seats. There’s sofa mode with a 135° backseat recline, a large 15.6 TFT infotainment system and a fully digital instrument console.Other key features include rear AC vents, 360° surround-view camera system, digital AC with PM 2.5 filter, power windows and steering-mounted controls. There’s a wireless charger, keyless entry and smart start system and USB ports. A cocooned drive experience is guaranteed with a comprehensive range of safety features including ADAS. Users also have access to a wide range of connectivity features.MG Cloud EVMG Cloud EV – Range, performanceAcross international markets, MG Cloud EV is offered with two powertrain options. The one equipped with a 37.9 kWh battery pack has a range of 360 km. The higher-spec variant has a 50.6 kWh battery pack, offering a range of 460 km. MG could offer both options in India to target a larger segment of users.Upcoming MG Cloud EV will be using lithium iron phosphate batteries that will supply power to a permanent magnet synchronous motor. The EV will be available in front wheel drive format. MG Cloud EV could be launched later this year or sometime next year. It is expected to be offered at a starting price of around Rs 15 lakh.MG Cloud EV More

  • in

    Piaggio Ape Electric Rickshaw 3W Subscription Model Launched – 30k Down Payment, 8k EMI

    Piaggio Ape Electric Rickshaw 3W CargoPiaggio’s new Battery Subscription Model makes 3W EV ownership even more attractive and highly affordable by eliminating upfront battery costThe recent announcement by the Government of India with regard to electric vehicle subsidy has upset the segment. An earlier Faster Adoption and Manufacturing of Electric (and Hybrid) Vehicles-II has been replaced by Electric Mobility Promotion Scheme 2024 (EMPS), which offers lower subsidies for both electric 2Ws and 3Ws when compared to the earlier FAME-II scheme, which expired on March 31, 2024.Piaggio Ape Electric at Rs 2.59 Lakh Plus Battery RentPiaggio is a well known entity in the electric three wheeler electric segment, scoring high in sales each month ahead of Bajaj Auto, Mini Metro and Unique International. They have now brought in a special scheme that will appeal to buyers of its Ape Electric electric three wheelers. This battery subscription model aims to revolutionize three wheeler ownership with more affordability by separating upfront cost of the vehicle from the cost of the battery.Piaggio Ape Electric Rickshaw 3W PVBuyers of the Piaggio Ape Electric can now make their purchases at Rs 2.59 lakh (ex-showroom). They can then subscribe to Piaggio approved battery pack at a monthly rent via the company dealership. While the chassis and powertrain are registered in the name of the customer, allowing them to avail loan facilities. Such an option will allow buyers to own electric vehicle without the stress of battery cost, maintenance, battery life span and replacement expenses.Piaggio dealerships offer these batteries to customers at a monthly rent for a lease period of 120,000 kms or 8 years for its cargo movers and at 150,000 kms or 8 years for passenger vehicles. On reaching the designated mileage, there is no more monthly rent to be paid. Piaggio also takes on the full onus of battery health even in the case of long term ownership. This special battery subscription module also includes battery replacement at the same amount of rent following the initial lease period.Piaggio Ape Electric Rickshaw Subscription Model Launched In 30 CitiesPiaggio Battery Subscription Model across 30 Indian CitiesThe Piaggio Battery Subscription Model has been introduced initially across 30 Indian cities. These include Gurgaon, Agra, Warrangal, Raipur, Mathura, Nizamabad, Nagpur, Lucknow, Kurnool, Bangalore, Kanpur, Anantpur, Tumkuru, Allahabad, Vijaywada, Mysore, Delhi, Guntur, Kolar, Noida, Vizag, Mumbai, Ghaziabad, Chennai, Ahmedabad, Greater Noida, Hyderabad, Pune and Faridabad. It requires no added documents from customers while buyers are given the liberty to unsubscribe from this program or sell their vehicle as they desire without any binding to the subscription scheme.Speaking on this special battery subscription model, Mr Diego Graffi, Chairman and MD Piaggio Vehicles Pvt Ltd said, “Piaggio India has a long history of prioritizing customer satisfaction through innovative products and solutions. The industry-first ‘Battery Subscription Model’ removes another barrier to EV adoption by addressing battery concerns and offering a cost-effective ownership option. We are confident this model will sustain EV growth in a post-subsidy environment.”Piaggio Ape Electric Rickshaw SpecsMr Amit Sagar, Executive Vice President – CV Domestic Business at Piaggio Vehicles Pvt Ltd has also stated that, “Customer can now own an electric 3W at down-payment of Just INR 30,000 and an EMI of INR 8,000 per month which makes it as easy to own as compared to 3W CNG. Battery Subscription model will bring in a new wave of EV adoption in the industry. Our initial interaction with channel partners and consumers makes us believe that we have a winner. We believe that the model will also continue the EV adoption in a post subsidy world ensuring that customers and manufacturers get the best from the massive EV opportunity.” More

  • in

    Maruti Ignis Electric 200 Kmph Top Speed – Fastest Indian Modified EV

    Maruti Ignis Electric does 200 kmphPune based Northway Motors demonstrates 200 km/h top speed on EV converted Ignis indicated by car’s original speedoIgnis from Maruti Suzuki has been one of the cute little vehicles on sale in India. This car is the entry portal into their premium Nexa experience. Ignis is not exactly shattering sales charts and is currently maintaining sub 3K units. So, nothing interesting, right? But what if we told you someone converted it to run on electricity and made it go 200 kmph? Not so boring now, is it?Maruti Ignis Electric ModifiedIndia’s four-wheel juggernaut, Maruti Suzuki is known for its small and affordable hatchbacks that are easy on the wallet. While there are many Maruti cars following this ethos sold through Arena dealerships, there is only one for Nexa dealerships, the Ignis. With steady sub 3K sales, Ignis is currently India’s 11th best-selling hatchback.Maruti Ignis Electric does 200 kmphBut for Maruti Suzuki, sub 3K sales puts it at the bottom parts of the charts and is 13th best-selling Maruti car. For Pune-based Northway Motors, however, Maruti Ignis was a good donor car to retrofit one of their EV conversion kits. The company specializes in Retrofit EV conversion kits for Tata Ace, EV products and sales, custom OEM products and energy storage solutions.We’re not sure whether Northway Motors used the same EV conversion kit designed and developed for Tata Ace (Rs. 2.75 lakh excluding vehicle) or a custom solution. Regardless, the result is quite fascinating. As seen in the video, we can see a Maruti Suzuki Ignis converted to run on electric power donning green number plates.[embedded content]This EV conversion on Ignis is for R&D only and is tested in a controlled environment on a dynamometer and not on public roads. The conversion is done on a top-spec Ignis Alpha and the car gets green-painted alloy wheels to show its green credentials. Or to match the green registration plates.Maruti Ignis Electric does 200 kmphIgnis 200 kmph!As seen in the video, Northway Motors’ Maruti Ignis electric modified version is powered by a battery and a motor. EVs sold by almost every single OEM are equipped with a single-speed gearbox. Northway Motors, however, seems to have kept Ignis’ 5-speed gearbox for torque optimisation.Maruti Ignis Electric by Northway MotorsThe dyno run of this EV-converted Ignis shows good performance across all five pre-determined gear ratios. The headline figure of 200 km/h top speed is shown on the car’s original speedometer. Even if there is a variance, this is still impressive as it reveals the benefits of running a conventional gearbox with EVs as they tend to have a ratio close to 1 in their top gears or even an overdrive ratio. For OEMs, incorporating a conventional gearbox is more expensive, complicated and heavy. But for EV conversions, this could prove to be a good direction. More