More stories

  • in

    Maruti EVX Parked On Roadside, Next To Venue – Interiors, Exteriors Walkaround

    Maruti EVX Electric SUV Spied – WalkaroundWhen launched, Maruti Suzuki eVX SUV will rival MG ZS EV, Mahindra XUV400 and upcoming Tata Curvv EV, Hyundai Creta EV and Mahindra BE.05India’s largest car manufacturer, Maruti Suzuki, has a massive portfolio of petrol and petrol+CNG vehicles. What it currently lacks is a BEV. The company is poised to unveil its first-ever electric car in the form of eVX SUV. Recently, Maruti Suzuki eVX has been papped in a detailed walkaround video, revealing its interiors for the first time.Maruti EVX Parked On RoadsideeVX will be Suzuki’s first-ever BEV. By the looks of it, eVX might make its world debut at 2025 Auto Expo and India could be the first market to witness a launch. A lot is riding on Maruti Suzuki eVX’s shoulders and it needs to be an extravaganza as it is the first of its kind for the brand.Maruti EVX Electric SUV Spied – WalkaroundWe’re happy to report that eVX packs a lot of sauce and is likely to leave a lasting impression on the automotive industry. A recent walkaround video by Manish Kaushik Shorts reveals most of the interior details of eVX electric SUV. We can see a new twin-spoke steering wheel with almost perfect 9 and 3 positions.Steering controls get a glossy finish. These controls are unlabelled on this test mule, but there is a probability that these might be touch-sensitive and labels are backlit. Flat bottom effect for the steering looks very modern and sophisticated. Dashboard is clad with a cloth. However, we can see a free-standing infotainment screen that could be 10-inch+ in size.Maruti EVX Electric SUV Spied – WalkaroundTwo central AC vents are vertically arranged and spaced out, lending a sense of width. Centre console area is stuffed with testing equipment. There is a floating centre console on eVX like on a European car. Hyundai Kona has something similar too. Centre console is clad with camouflage, but we did spot a rotary dial, maybe a gear selector, and an electronic parking brake.Maruti EVX Electric SUV Spied – WalkaroundBased on YY8 skateboard, a derivative of born electric 27PL platform from Toyota, there is no need for a traditional transmission tunnel, allowing OEMs to explore their creative ideas. Seats look very hugging with massive side bolsters, like that of a Euro car. We can see a single-pane sunroof along with rear AC vents shared with Grand Vitara.Maruti EVX Electric SUV Spied – WalkaroundExterior highlights and powertrainWe have covered exterior highlights before and there were no new features spotted on this test mule. Refreshing your memory, Maruti Suzuki eVX gets projector headlights, striking alloy wheels, all-four disc brakes, rear washer and wiper, a large roof spoiler, rear door handles on C-Pillar, a shark fin antenna, camera on ORVMs, front camera, radar module for ADAS, charging port on front left fender and more. Dashcam might be aftermarket.Maruti EVX Electric SUV Spied – WalkaroundWhere powertrain is concerned, we can expect a single-motor front wheel drive layout as standard and a dual-motor all-wheel drive layout as an option. Battery size could be a 45 kWh and 60 kWh units promising a range of up to 550 km. More

  • in

    Electric Car Sales March 2024 – Tata, MG, Mahindra, Citroen, Hyundai, BYD, Kia

    New Tata Punch EV. Image – Shubhadip SinghaTata Motors headed this list by a huge margin over MG and Mahindra – Thanks to Punch EV and Nexon EV, Tata has over 73% market shareThanks to the Government of India’s favourable policies regarding promotion of electric vehicles (EVs), sales in this segment are increasing by leaps and bounds. There are several cars currently on sale in this segment and there were nearly 91,000 electric cars sold in India during the period FY 2024 (April 2023 and March 2024). In March 2024, electric vehicle sales grew 7.50% YoY and 31042% MoM to 9,503 units. There had been 8,840 units sold in March 2023 and 7,231 units sold in February 2024 thus showing the growing demand that this segment has experienced.Tata Motors Commands 73.71% Market ShareTata Motors, with an EV lineup that includes the Tiago, Tigor, Punch and Nexon has seen sales of 7,005 units in March 2024 to command a 73.71 percent market share. Though this was a 4.21 percent YoY decline from 7,313 units sold in March 2023, sales improved dramatically by 41.77% on a MoM basis from 4,941 units sold in February 2024. Apart from a healthier lineup, Tata Motors’ EV are also more affordable priced between Rs 7.99 – 19.29 lakh. (ex.sh). There is now the Tata Curvv EV that is currently being tested ahead of launch sometime in the 2nd quarter of financial year 2024-2025.Electric Car Sales March 2024MG Motor has the Comet and ZS in its electric segment and has seen sales of 1,131 units last month. This was a 118.76% YoY growth while MoM sales also showed off strong growth by 7.41%. The Comet and ZS are priced from 6.99-25.08 lakh. MG has also started testing the Cloud EV which will be its 3rd electric car when launched in India later this year or by early 2025.Mahindra XUV400, the sole electric model in the company lineup has seen sales of 616 units last month, up 155.21% from 259 units sold in March 2023. MoM sales also grew by 6.27% from 622 units sold in February 2024. Mahindra will be expanding its EV lineup to include the XUV.e8, XUV.e9 and BE.05, each of which have been seen while on speed tests at the company’s track in Chennai. In the Citroen electric lineup is the eC3 priced from Rs 11.61-13.35 lakh. Sales dipped to 178 units in the past month from 209 units sold in March 2023 while it was outstanding growth of 125.32% when compared to just 79 units sold in February 2024.Electric Car Sales March 2024 vs March 2023 – YoY comparisonAmong the higher priced electric cars in the non-luxury segment are the Hyundai Kona and Ioniq 5. Priced from Rs 23.84-45.95 lakh (ex.sh), sales of these two cars grew by 206.25% YoY to 147 units in the past month from 48 unit sold in March 2023. It was also outstanding MoM growth of 24.58 percent over 118 units sold in February 2024. Hyundai recently updated the Ioniq 5 with new colour schemes in a bid to boost sales. BYD E6, Atto3 and Seal have seen sales dip 54.33% YoY and 4.20 % MoM to 137 units while MoM sales also suffered a setback by 4.20%.Electric Car Sales March 2024 vs Feb 2024 – MoM comparisonBMW India Claims Top Spot Among Luxury BrandsIn the luxury electric vehicle segment, BMW India took a top spot among luxury brands with its iX1, i4, iX and i7 gaining in YoY sales by 20.09% to 71 units from 55 units sold in March 2023. MoM sales however, saw sales dip 44.09 percent from 127 units sold in February 2024.Heralding outstanding YoY and MoM growth was Mercedes India with its electric vehicle lineup growing by 45.71% YoY and 21.43% MoM to 51 units in the past month. There had been 35 units and 42 units sold in March 2023 and February 2024 respectively. The Mercedes EV lineup is currently priced from Rs 74.5 lakh-2.45 crores.Lower down the sales list was Volvo with its XC60 and C40 commanding sales of 44 units while Kia EV6 sales stood at 33 units. Porsche sales have escalated several fold to 16 units in March 2024, up 128.57% YoY and 433.33% MoM taking up market share to 0.17% from 0.54% on a MoM basis. More

  • in

    MG Cloud EV Spied Testing In India Ahead Of Launch In 2025

    MG Cloud EV Spied in India. Image – lolgod11The collaboration between MG Motor and JSW has stirred anticipation among automotive enthusiasts, and these spy shots of the MG Cloud EV adds further excitement to the mixIn a significant development in India’s electric vehicle (EV) market, the much-anticipated MG Cloud EV has been spotted undergoing testing on Indian roads. This sighting marks a pivotal moment in the partnership between MG Motor and JSW, as they gear up to introduce a range of new cars in the country.MG Cloud EV Spied Testing In IndiaSet to be marketed under the newly formed JSW-MG branding, the electric vehicle has already made its mark in international markets. Known as the Wuling Cloud EV in Indonesia and the Baojun Yunduo in China, it is expected to make waves in the Indian automotive scene under the moniker MG Cloud EV.MG Cloud EV Spied Testing In India. Image – McLarenMP4-27With dimensions measuring 4,295 mm in length, 1,850 mm in width, and 1,652 mm in height, the MG Cloud EV boasts a spacious interior capable of accommodating five passengers comfortably. Positioned to rival contenders like the BYD Dolphin and Volkswagen ID.3, the MG Cloud EV stands out with its sleek design and impressive specifications.MG Cloud EVInternationally, the MG Cloud EV is available with two battery options: 37.9 kWh and 50.6 kWh, offering drive ranges of up to 360 kilometers and 460 kilometers respectively. This versatility ensures that consumers have options tailored to their specific needs and driving habits, bolstering the appeal of the electric vehicle in a rapidly evolving market.MG Cloud EV Spied Testing In IndiaMG Cloud EV Spied – InteriorsInside the MG Cloud EV, drivers will find a host of cutting-edge features designed to enhance the driving experience. An 8.8-inch full LCD instrument screen complements either a 10.1-inch or 15.6-inch central control screen, providing intuitive access to essential vehicle functions. Moreover, the MG Cloud EV comes with LingOS 2.0 ecological cockpit, underscoring its commitment to innovation and connectivity.MG Cloud EV Spied Testing In IndiaSafety remains a top priority for MG Motor and JSW, evident in the inclusion of advanced driver assistance systems (ADAS) and six airbags in the MG Cloud EV. These features offer peace of mind to drivers and passengers alike, reinforcing the vehicle’s reputation as a leader in safety technology.MG Cloud EVAs the automotive industry shifts towards electrification, the arrival of the MG Cloud EV signals a bold step forward for India’s EV ecosystem. With its combination of style, performance, and advanced technology, the MG Cloud EV is poised to redefine the standards for electric vehicles in the country. Stay tuned for further updates as the eagerly anticipated launch of the MG Cloud EV draws closer. More

  • in

    Maruti Electric MPV 7 Seater Rendered – Based On EVX SUV

    Maruti Electric MPV 7 Seater RenderTo maintain its dominance, Maruti will be launching multiple new SUVs and MPVs in the coming yearsAs part of its Vision 3.0 roadmap, Maruti Suzuki has chalked out a mega product onslaught. From the current 17 cars, the portfolio will be expanded to 28 by the end of this decade. While ICE and CNG models will continue to be in demand, Maruti will step-up focus on flex-fuel vehicles, ethanol powered cars, hybrids and EVs.Maruti born-electric MPV – RenderWith products like Ertiga and XL6, Maruti currently dominates the entry-level MPV segment. As electrification gains momentum, Maruti has started work on an all-electric MPV. Internally codenamed as YMC, this new Maruti electric MPV will share its powertrain and battery pack with the upcoming eVX compact electric SUV. Expected to be launched in the second half of 2026, it will be Maruti’s first born-electric MPV.Maruti Electric MPV 7 Seater RenderAs may be recalled, the born-electric platform to be used for eVX SUV is being developed as part of a collaboration between Maruti and Toyota. This new versatile platform will be able to support multiple body styles. For the upcoming electric MPV, a derivative of the 27PL skateboard will be used. While eVX is scheduled to debut later this year during the festive season, the electric MPV will debut around one and a half years later.With addition of the new electric MPV, Maruti will be able to provide more options to folks looking for a 3-row model. Maruti already has Ertiga, XL6 and Invicto MPVs. In the future, more 3-row models will be launched. It includes a 7-seater SUV based on the Grand Vitara and a hybrid MPV based on Suzuki Spacia. An extended range of 3-row models available with multiple powertrain options will be beneficial. It will place Maruti in a better position to deal with current and upcoming rivals.Maruti born-electric MPV – SpecsMaruti’s focus on affordability will continue with its upcoming hybrid and electric vehicles. To reduce development and production cost, the upcoming electric MPV is likely to borrow the battery pack, electric motor and other powertrain components from eVX. Maruti eVX will have battery options of a 40 kWh and a 60-kWh unit. Both these options could be offered with the electric MPV as well. Range could be around the same as 550 km of eVX. The equipment list is also expected to have multiple common features for eVX and YMC.While other carmakers like Tata and MG have launched affordable options in the EV segment, Maruti Suzuki is yet to start its innings. Maruti’s electric plans were delayed, as the company wanted to start with born-electric EVs instead of ICE to EV conversions.With multiple new EVs planned for launch in the coming years, Maruti shouldn’t have any major issues in catching up with rivals. As of now, Tata Motors dominates the entry-level EV segment with more than 2/3rd market share. MG Motor is second with market share of around 15%. Mahindra is third, with market share of 8-9 percent.Source More

  • in

    Production Of Tesla Cars For India Commenced – Supply Not From China

    Tesla Model 3Ahead of the full fledge manufacturing plans in India, Tesla has commenced production of cars for Indian market to be shipped in from GermanyIn a bid to make a name for itself in the world’s third largest automotive market, Tesla has commenced production of RHD vehicles. Unlike initial speculations suggesting shipments from China, a recent report suggests Tesla intends to ship RHD vehicles to India from its manufacturing facility in Germany.Production Of Tesla Cars For India CommencedWorld’s leading electric car maker, Tesla, is poised to enter the Indian automotive scene and establish a manufacturing presence here. Initially, there were setbacks to Tesla from Indian Government regarding the reduction in taxation for establishing a retail chain with units shipped into the country from China.After a brief pause, Tesla changed its approach towards Indian market. The growing economy and India climbing the ladder to become the world’s third-largest automotive market certainly helped in these regards. One of the nudges could be Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s visit to USA and dialogues exchanged with Tesla founder, Elon Musk.Because India is a market for RHD vehicles, initial speculations suggested an imminent import from Tesla’s Shanghai plant. RHD Tesla cars are primarily manufactured here and are exported to all RHD markets like UK, Japan, Australia and others.File photo from 2023. Elon Musk and Narendra ModiRecent report suggests Tesla has commenced production of RHD vehicles for India in its Berlin plant in Germany. Considering the proximity between Germany and UK, there is a possibility that Berlin-made RHD Tesla cars might be sold in UK, replacing Shanghai-made units. As of now, there are no confirmations regarding which vehicles Tesla has on the cards for Indian markets.Tesla’s Berlin plant currently manufactures Model Y. Considering Indian road conditions and market perception, high-riding Tesla vehicles like Model Y could be a good fit.Company’s roadmapElectric vehicle juggernaut, Tesla, has pledged to establish manufacturing facilities in India. The company is about to finalise the location for the manufacturing facility. A team from Tesla is expected to fly into India and decide between three prospective locations – Tamil Nadu, Maharashtra and Gujarat.Tesla Model 3 refreshedAhead of that, Tesla is bringing vehicles manufactured in Germany to India via CBU route. These developments surfaced following the revised taxes by Indian Government on certain electric vehicles who’s manufacturers invest a minimum sum of USD 500 million and commence production within the next three years.As per the revised Indian policy, manufacturers can import up to 8,000 units into the country under the revised taxation policy at a lower tax rate. In the grand scheme of things, Tesla intends to increase its reliance on Indian providers for sourcing various components, making India a bigger sourcing hub.Source More

  • in

    Maruti eVX Interior Details Revealed – Creta EV, Curvv EV Rival

    Maruti Suzuki eVXUpcoming Maruti eVX is based on a new born-electric platform and is expected to be around 4.2 to 4.3 meters longIndia’s largest carmaker by volume, Maruti Suzuki has started testing its first-ever fully electric vehicle – eVX. It is underpinned by the YY8 skateboard, a derivative of Toyota’s 27PL platform. Maruti eVX is expected to be launched in India in 2025. There will be a Toyota-badged version as well.Maruti eVX – Interiors revealedTest mules of Maruti eVX have been spotted multiple times in recent months. In the latest spy video, one gets to see the cockpit area of the electric SUV. While interiors are a work-in-progress and have significant camouflage, some of the details are still evident. For example, there’s a rotary dial for the gear selector and an electronic parking brake.Maruti eVX Interior DetailsThe central area is pretty wide, something that clearly separates the driver and front passenger sections. Maruti eVX will offer a range of premium equipment. One can notice the large touchscreen, which appears to be an integrated infotainment and instrument screen. Another detail to be noted is the flat bottom steering wheel.Interiors are quite spacious and should offer adequate headroom and legroom for all passengers. Based on the equipment list seen with new-gen Maruti cars, eVX could get features such as a head-up display, ventilated front seats, dual-zone climate control, powered driver’s seat and a panoramic sunroof.Maruti eVX – Sporty exteriors, ADASSimilar to other compact SUVs such as the Creta and Seltos, the Maruti eVX boasts a sporty, athletic build. It appears quite wide, something that could ensure best-in-class shoulder space for rear passengers. Test mules are heavily camouflaged and do not reveal any of the finer details. Only a few features are noticeable such as the conventional headlight positioning, ice-cube LED DRLs and a flat closed-off grille. The charging port is located on the front left quarter panel.Maruti eVX gets large alloy wheels and C-pillar mounted rear door handles. Rear section is heavily camouflaged and temporary lighting elements can be seen. The SUV has shark fin antenna, a prominent spoiler and rugged rear bumper. It is possible that eVX could get a connected LED tail light setup. Talking about tech features, eVX is expected to get a 360° camera and ADAS.Maruti eVX Interior DetailsMaruti eVX – Specs, PowertrainFor enhanced safety, Maruti eVX will be equipped with all-four-disc brakes. The SUV is expected to have standard and long-range versions, with battery capacity of 45 kWh and 60 kWh, respectively. Both single and dual motor AWD options could be offered. Range is expected around 550 km.When launched, Maruti eVX will compete with the likes of Mahindra XUV400 and MG ZS EV along with upcoming Tata Curvv EV, Hyundai Creta EV, Mahindra BE.05 and Citroen eC3 Aircross. While Maruti dominates the ICE segment with over 40% market share, it will be interesting to see how it performs in the EV space. More

  • in

    Citroen Blu Edition Launched – 3rd Anniversary Offers, Referrals, Car Spa

    Citroen Blu Edition LaunchedAs part of its third anniversary celebration in India, Citroen has announced attractive offers for both existing and new customersCitroen had started its operations in the Indian market with the C5 Aircross launched in 2021. Since then, the French carmaker has expanded its portfolio to include the C3 hatchback, eC3 electric and C3 Aircross SUV. Citroen is celebrating its third anniversary, wherein customers stand to gain from a range of attractive offers.Special Anniversary price – C3 and C3 AircrossAs per the anniversary offer, the C3 hatch is available at a special price of Rs 5.99 lakh. Users stand to save Rs 17,000, as the standard price of the base trim is Rs 6.16 lakh. Citroen is also offering special benefits of up to Rs 1.50 lakh on the MY23 model of C3.The C3 hatch is powered by a 1.2-litre 3-cylinder petrol engine, available in two states of tune. Base variants deliver 82 PS / 115 Nm and are equipped with a sole 5-speed manual gearbox. Higher variants churn out 110 PS / 190 Nm and get mated to a sole 6-speed manual gearbox.Citroen C3 Aircross is available at a discounted price of Rs 8.99 lakh. That’s instant savings of Rs 1 lakh, as the standard pricing for C3 Aircross is Rs 9.99 lakh. Users can also access benefits worth up to Rs 1.90 lakh if they choose the MY23 model.Citroen Blu EditionEngine options for C3 Aircross are the same as C3, available only in the higher state of tune. Transmission choices include 6-speed manual and a 6-speed Aisin-sourced automatic gearbox unit called “Automatique”. Torque output is higher at 205 Nm with the automatic transmission.Special ‘Blu’ Edition of C3 and eC3Customers looking for some exclusivity can choose the Blu edition of C3 and eC3. This is a limited edition, available across Feel and Shine variants. The Blu limited edition model has a new Cosmo Blue exterior shade. There are sporty graphics across the body and roof, which further enhance the overall look and feel.Inside, the Blu edition packs in new features such as sill plates, illuminated cup holders and an air purifier. Users can also access customized neck rests, seat covers and seat belt cushions, among others.Citroen C3 Blu EditionRs 10,000 per referral and Free Car SpaIn a highly rewarding referral scheme, Citroen is offering a voucher worth Rs 10,000 for every successful referral. Existing Citroen customers can also get a free car spa, as part of the third anniversary celebrations. These offers are valid for April. However, some offers may be subject to stock availability.While India is a tough market to crack, Citroen remains committed towards its goals. The company is currently focusing on expanding operations across the country. By the end of this calendar year, Citroen aims to establish 200 sales and service touchpoints. This expansion is part of the company’s Network Expansion Program (NEP). Citroen will also be introducing new products such as the Basalt Vision Coupe SUV. It will primarily rival the upcoming Tata Curvv. More

  • in

    Hyundai IONIQ 5 Robotaxi Clears US Driver’s License Test

    Hyundai Ioniq 5 robotaxi Driving LicenseHyundai Motor Co.’s IONIQ 5 robotaxi passes a US driver’s license test in Las Vegas, marking the first time for a Level 4 autonomous vehicleA video released online shows off the new Hyundai IONIQ 5 robotaxi completing a process akin to that of an actual US driver’s license test. This new robotaxi, based on the all-electric IONIQ 5 crossover showed off its self-driving skills to achieve consistent driving performance under a host of driving conditions to exude uncompromised safety.Boasting autonomous driving technology, the Ioniq 5 robotaxi was put through a host of tests among which were public-level driving test and road driving in Las Vegas and emerged to prove its safety on both counts.Hyundai Ioniq 5 robotaxiIONIQ 5 robotaxi’s Reliability Put to TestThe video starts with a sad tale of Pearl Outlaw, a visually impaired American lady and her mother Ruth, talking about the disability called Retinitis Pigmentosa. This degenerative disorder limited Pearl’s freedom of mobility. However, with this new and certified robotaxi, having passed the driving test is a positive step in this direction. It will be a game changer for such persons who will no longer have to rely on others for their mobility.The accompanying video also demonstrates how the Ioniq 5 robotaxi was put to the test by Kandice Jones, a DMV-certified driving examiner with 25 years of experience who has failed thousands of students in the past. She states that “Out of the 31,500 people I’ve supervised over the past 25 years, only about 16% have passed”.[embedded content]Sitting in the front passenger seat, Jones tested the robotaxi under the same criteria as a human. It was monitored for speed, lane change, manoeuvres, left turns and lane maintenance besides complete stop and quick reaction time as the autonomous robotaxi took on the Las Vegas Strip and city suburbs. It passed each of these tests with flying colours.Hyundai’s IONIQ 5 robotaxi – An SAE Level 4 Autonomous VehicleHyundai’s IONIQ 5 robotaxi is based on an Electric Global Modular Platform (E-GMP), Hyundai Motor Group’s dedicated battery electric vehicle (BEV) platform. It emerges as a collaboration between Hyundai Motors and Motional, an autonomous driving technology developer. It is fitted with over 30 sensors, cameras, radars and lidar to offer a 360-degree perception besides high-resolution images and long-range detection of objects to demonstrate consistent and safe driving performance. A safety suite, displayed across the vehicle’s exterior sets it apart from human-piloted vehiclesHyundai Ioniq 5 robotaxi ObstaclesThe successful completion of this stringent driving test marks the first time that a Level 4 autonomous vehicle, classified by SAE International, has been awarded the Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standards (FMVSS) certification. This Level 4 means that the vehicle can drive itself under limited conditions without the requirement of a safety operator in the front seat. However, this is unlike Level 5 which allows for fully automated driving. It also highlights Pearl’s story of everyday mobility constraints faced by the physically impaired, with autonomous driving technology coming to the rescue in providing such persons a sense of independence.Earlier last month, the 2024 Hyundai Ioniq 5 Facelift made its debut in India with an increased range. It is slated to come into India via CKD route by the end of 2024 or early 2025. More