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    EV-First Eicher Truck debuts at Bharat Mobility Global Expo 2024

    EV-First Eicher TruckEicher Trucks and Buses Unveils Electric Commercial Vehicle at Bharat Mobility Global Expo 2024Eicher Trucks and Buses, a division of VE Commercial Vehicles, has taken a significant leap into the Small Commercial Vehicle (SCV) segment with the global unveiling of its EV-First Eicher Truck at the Bharat Mobility Global Expo 2024. The Pro Business Pro Planet range, spanning from 2T to 3.5T GVW, is poised to revolutionize city and near-city distribution, transforming last-mile logistics.Entering New FrontiersVinod Aggarwal, MD & CEO of VE Commercial Vehicles Limited, highlighted the strategic move into the SCV segment, stating, “As India grows in the Amrit Kaal, the SCV segment will be driven by rapid urbanization, booming e-commerce, increased personal consumption, and the rise of the hub-and-spoke distribution. Our upcoming range will play a pivotal role in this transformation with its Pro Business, Pro Planet approach.”EV-First Eicher TruckThe electric variant of the SCV is slated for customer trials in April 2024, and commercial rollout is expected to commence in the first quarter of 2025. Emphasizing their commitment to sustainability, Eicher will initially introduce the electric model, progressively expanding into clean CNG and diesel variants. The vehicle is designed and developed in India, reflecting the brand’s alignment with the Make in India initiative, and will be manufactured at the state-of-the-art facility in Bhopal.Aggarwal added, “Eicher has a track record of delivering energy-efficient trucks, and with this announcement, we reaffirm our commitment to providing cutting-edge solutions crucial for India’s sustainable growth in the coming years.”EV-First Eicher TruckTo ensure an unparalleled aftermarket experience, all Eicher vehicles will feature 100% connectivity through the innovative Uptime Centre. This advanced system utilizes AI for remote diagnostics, minimizing downtime and enhancing efficiency. Integrated with ‘My Eicher’ fleet management, the trucks will deliver valuable performance insights.Green Mobility Priority – Made in IndiaThe extensive service network comprises 850+ touchpoints, including 425+ authorized service centers and 8000+ retail centers. Additionally, ‘Eicher Site Support’ at 240+ locations will offer seamless assistance. Eicher remains committed to comprehensive truck support, providing training, ensuring prompt parts delivery, and facilitating convenient annual maintenance contracts.Eicher’s entry into the SCV segment and the launch of the EV-First Eicher Truck mark a significant step forward in the company’s commitment to delivering sustainable and technologically advanced transportation solutions. As the global automotive industry continues to evolve, Eicher is positioning itself at the forefront of innovation and environmental consciousness. More

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    Kia EV9 Electric SUV Spotted Undisguised In India – Launch Soon

    Kia EV9 Electric SUV SpottedUnderpinned by the E-GMP platform, Kia’s flagship electric SUV EV9 is available in both RWD and e-AWD formatsAfter launching EV6 in 2022, Kia is looking to further expand its EV portfolio. The flagship EV9 electric SUV has been spotted on road tests for the first time in India. Just like the EV6, the EV9 will enter India via the CBU route. Launch price could be around Rs 80 lakh for the base trim.Kia EV9 – Massive street presenceBeing 5,015 mm long, 1,980 mm wide and 1,780 mm tall, Kia EV9 will dwarf most other cars on the road. Wheelbase is 3,100 mm, which ensures roomy interiors and plentiful boot space. The SUV has a bold character, with sculpted panelling all across. Some of the key highlights include cube LED headlamps with Z-shaped DRLs, closed-off grille and prominent bumper.Kia EV9 Electric SUV SpottedSide profile has polygonal wheel arches, sporty 21-inch alloy wheels, thick body cladding, functional roof rails and door-mounted ORVMs with integrated turn signals. At rear, the primary attraction is the star map LED tail lamps. Rear wiper is neatly hidden beneath the rear spoiler, ensuring a clutter free profile.Kia EV9 interiorsKia EV9 offers premium features on the inside such as three zone climate control, heated and ventilated front and second row seats, automatic defog system, electronic rear view mirror with full display, heated steering wheel, regenerative braking paddle shifters and height adjustable smart power tailgate.Kia EV9 Electric SUV SpottedInterior space is highly customizable with 60:40 Split Remote Folding 2nd Row Seats with Headrests and 50:50 Split Remote Folding 3rd Row Seats with Headrests. Second row seats have swivel function, which adds versatility to the interiors. There are intelligently designed storage spaces and USB charging ports for all passengers.[embedded content]Kia EV9 is tech-heavy with features such as a 12.3-inch touchscreen infotainment system with navigation, a 12.3-inch driver display screen and a 5.3-inch climate control screen. Other key highlights include digital key, fingerprint recognition, wireless Android Auto and Apple CarPlay, USB-C ports, wireless phone charger and OTA updates. A comprehensive range of active and passive safety features including ADAS are available with Kia EV9.Kia EV9 performance, rangeBased on their needs, users can choose from three powertrain options. Base RWD variant is equipped with a 76.1 kWh battery, connected to a 215 hp single electric motor. Range is 230 miles (approx. 370 km). The long-range variant of Kia EV9 has a 99.8 kWh battery, connected to a 201 hp single electric motor. Range is 304 miles (approx. 489 km). Users can also choose the dual-motor variant that delivers 379 hp of max power. Range is 280 miles (approx. 450 km).Kia EV9 comes with both fixed and portable charging options. Fast charging is supported, allowing users to load 154 miles (248 km) in just 15 minutes. With the fast charger, 10% to 80% can be achieved in just 24 minutes. The SUV also has Vehicle-to-Load (V2L) capability that can be used to charge various tools and equipment.Source More

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    Comet EV Shines Bright in MG Motor India’s 100-Year Celebration with Exclusive Pricing

    2024 MG CometMG Motor India Marks 100 Years with Spectacular Offerings for 2024 – Comet EV price cut by Rs 1 lakhMG Motor India is celebrating its 100th anniversary with a bang, unveiling a series of Wow Offerings for its 2024 lineup. The company aims to enthral car buyers with its remarkable product offerings, exceptional value propositions, and unique brand experiences.Comet EV Price Reduced From Rs 7.98 Lakh to Rs 6.99 LakhIn a bold move towards accelerating the adoption of electric vehicles, MG Motor India has launched 2024 MG Comet EV, a smart EV, at a starting price of just INR 6.99 Lakh. This move aligns with the company’s vision to provide practical solutions for eco-conscious urban consumers and strengthen the electric mobility ecosystem in India.2024 MG Comet– MG ZS EV Executive’ Variant launched at INR 18.98 Lakh– MG Comet- The Smart EV now starts at INR 6.99 Lakh– MG Hector now starts at INR 14.94 Lakh– MG Gloster now starts at INR 37.49 Lakh– MG Astor now starts at INR 9.98 lakhAs part of its commitment to sustainable transportation, MG Motor India has launched the ‘ZS EV Executive’ variant, making electric mobility more accessible to the masses. Priced at an attractive INR 18.98 Lakh, the ZS EV Executive is designed to provide a luxurious and comfortable in-cabin experience for both front and rear-seat passengers. With a powerful electric motor and a whopping 461 km certified range in a single charge, the ZS EV continues to set new benchmarks in the electric mobility space, offering over 75 connected features.2024 MG ZS EVHector: Elevating the Internet SUV ExperienceThe MG Hector, India’s first Internet SUV, receives a significant price revision, starting at an attractive INR 14.94 Lakh. Packed with best-in-class features such as a panoramic sunroof, a massive 14-inch HD portrait infotainment system, and ADAS Level 2, the Hector continues to redefine the SUV landscape in the country. The Diesel variant starts at INR 17.50 Lakh, showcasing MG’s commitment to delivering advanced technology and safety features across all variants.2024 MG HectorGloster: Luxurious Autonomy at INR 37.49 LakhFurthermore, MG Motor India is proud to announce that the luxurious MG Gloster, India’s first autonomous (Level 1) premium SUV, is now available at a starting price of INR 37.49 Lakh. Renowned for its bold design, robust build, and plush interiors, the Gloster offers versatility with both 2WD and 4WD configurations, along with a cutting-edge all-terrain system featuring seven modes.2024 MG GlosterThe company has kickstarted 2024 with the MY24 version of the MG Astor, introducing brand-new trims – Sprint, Shine, Select, Sharp Pro, and Savvy Pro, promising an enhanced driving experience for its customers. MG Motor India’s Wow Offerings for its 2024 lineup demonstrate its dedication to innovation, sustainability, and providing customers with unparalleled value in the automotive market.2024 MG AstorGaurav Gupta, Deputy Managing Director, MG Motor India, stated, “At MG, we are committed to keeping the customer at the heart of our operations. In continuation with our centenary celebrations, we’re excited to introduce 2024 as the Year of Fast Forward, to ensure a rewarding ownership experience for all.” More

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    Force Gurkha Electric Launched In UK (Rs 53 L) By MW Motors – Thar EV Rival

    Force Gurkha Electric launched in the UKCzech automotive startup MW Motors’ Spartan EV 2.0 utilizes Force Gurkha’s chassis and bodyshell, while the electric powertrain is entirely newFor folks who want the G-Wagen experience at an affordable price point, Czech-based automotive startup MW Motors has launched the new Spartan EV 2.0. It is a new-gen version of the original Spartan EV that was based on a Russian military 4×4 model named UAZ Hunter. Spartan EV 2.0 is available in the UK at a starting price of £49,995 (approx. Rs 52.86 lakh).Spartan EV 2.0 design and featuresExteriors of Spartan EV 2.0 are largely the same as Force Gurkha. It includes the round LED headlamps with circular DRLs, prominent bumper with fog lamps, flared wheel arches, rectangular ORVMs, roof rack and running boards. At rear too, the vertically positioned tail lamps, bumper and roof ladder are the same as Force Gurkha. There’s a rear mounted spare tyre as well.Force Gurkha Electric launchedColour options for Spartan EV 2.0 are the same as Force Gurkha. There are five basic options of bright orange, army green, grey, white and red. Talking about some of the unique features of Spartan EV 2.0, the electric SUV gets a closed-off grille. A new set of alloy wheels have been used.Spartan EV 2.0 interiorsInside too, there are a number of similarities with Force Gurkha. It includes the design of the AC vents, steering wheel and the climate control dials. The outline of the 7-inch touchscreen and the instrument console seems familiar to that of Force Gurkha. However, Spartan EV 2.0 has a fully digital instrument console. The infotainment system is also likely to have a different OS.Force Gurkha Electric launchedSpartan EV 2.0 specs, range, performanceAt 4,116 mm long, Spartan EV 2.0 can be highly agile and maneuverable. Ground clearance is 200 mm and wading depth is 700 mm. The SUV has a gross weight of 3,375 kg and can carry a load of 1,025 kg. Towing capacity is 3,000 kg. Cargo storage space at the rear is 1,718 litres. In terms of off-roading capabilities, Spartan EV 2.0 has approach angle of 38° and departure angle of 35°.Spartan EV 2.0 is equipped with a 61.1 kWh Lithium-ion battery, connected to a permanent magnet synchronous motor. It generates 177 PS of max power and 1,075 Nm of peak torque. The SUV offers a range of 150 miles (approx. 241 km). Both standard and fast charging options are available. With the fast charger, 20% to 80% charge can be achieved in just 36 minutes. The SUV also has V2L (Vehicle-to-load) feature that can be used to charge tools and equipment.Spartan EV 2.0 has manually operated differential locks at front and rear. The SUV can be operated in 2WD High, 4WD High and 4WD Low configuration. Regenerative braking is available to improve range. Safety kit includes features such as hill descent control, ABS and tyre pressure monitoring system.Spartan EV 2.0 India launch prospectsIn the UK, the Spartan EV 2.0 has been homologated as a light commercial vehicle. It is primarily targeted at users associated with forestry, agriculture, mining, nature conservation and extreme sports sectors.Spartan EV 2.0 has global potential and enthusiasts in India will surely like to try it. It can even emerge a bestseller, as there are hardly any rivals in this space. Mahindra is working on Thar electric, but it is planned for launch in 2026. If MW Motors can expedite plans in collaboration with Force Motors, Spartan EV 2.0 can become a reality in India. More

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    Mahindra XUV.e9 EV Coupe Reveals Flamboyant Design

    Mahindra XUV.e9 EV CoupeWhen compared to XUV.e8 with a regular monocoque SUV proportions, Mahindra XUV.e9 EV Coupe emerges as significantly more stylishCoupe SUVs have been catching up in recent times. What started as a design trend with BMW X6 has reached mainstream car markets. Mahindra is also taking up the trend and developing XUV.e9 and BE.09. There have been spy shots showing profile, but the new spy shots show rear section as well.Mahindra XUV.e9 EV CoupeFor starters, the new XUV.e9 is essentially an electrified version of upcoming XUV700 Coupe or XUV800. While XUV.e8 is an electrified version of XUV700, XUV.e9 is an electrified version of XUV800, which could be launched at a later date. To ace aerodynamic performance of a coupe SUV, Mahindra seems to be benchmarking a Tesla Model Y, spotted at Mahindra’s premises.The recent XUV.e9 spy shots were captured by automotive enthusiast Anto Leo Thomson. This particular test mule was found trundling along near Paranur toll gate outside Mahindra City, Chengalpattu, Tamil Nadu. These are the clearest and the closest pictures of XUV.e9 yet. Most of the components like tail lights and headlights seem to be production-spec.In many Mahindra prototypes, we have seen temporary tail lights, but these seem to be finalised. We can see how massive Mahindra XUV.e9 looks and the massive road presence it exudes. Wheels look a tad small for a vehicle of this size. However, the coupe roof line is the primary highlight here.Mahindra XUV.e9 EV Coupe shapeIt smoothly flows into rear section that features a connected tail light design along with a fake air vent-type element. We can see split aero rear spoiler along with a shark fin antenna. Front door handles are flush, but rear door handle is in the C-pillar. Chunky body claddings will cut down on visual mass too.Immersive interiorsAnto Leo Thomson also mentioned that this particular test mule features a triple-screen setup – one for main infotainment, one for driver’s instrumentation and one for front passenger. We will see Mahindra’s new steering wheel which looks to be inspired by Tata’s new steering design. Like BE.05, XUV.e9 could feature a fixed glass roof too.Powertrain-wise, Mahindra’s new INGLO platform will underpin this stylish coupe SUV. Battery size will vary between 60 kWh to 80 kWh. Single motor RWD and dual motor AWD layouts will be offered as options. Performance with these SUVs will be plenty with instant electric torque. Mahindra demonstrated a 200 km/h top speed as well.Mahindra BE.09 Production DesignIn India, Tata Tigor was the first mainstream coupe vehicle, followed by Maruti Suzuki Fronx. That said, Mahindra had established interests in coupe vehicles much earlier and had even showcased XUV500 Aero Concept with a sloping roof line. The new BE.09 and XUV.e9 are spiritual successors of that design. More

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    Volvo C40 Recharge Electric Car Catches Fire – Volvo India Official Statement

    Volvo C40 Recharge Electric catches fireQuick Thinking Ensures Escape from Burning C40 – How Will This Incident Impact Electric Vehicle Adoption?In a surprising turn of events, a video has surfaced online showing a Volvo C40 Recharge, known for its reputation as one of the safest car brands globally, engulfed in flames. The incident occurred in Chhattisgarh, while the owner was driving, raising concerns about the safety of electric vehicles.The Volvo C40 Recharge, an all-electric car, has been gaining attention for its eco-friendly features and advanced safety measures. Priced at Rs 62.95 lakh (ex-showroom), it is one of the premium electric offerings available in India. However, a shocking video shared by the car owner reveals a different side to the vehicle’s safety record.Volvo’s Safety Reputation TestedThe video, recorded by the owner at the time of the incident, captures the moment the Volvo C40 Recharge caught fire. Fortunately, everyone on board managed to escape unharmed before the flames engulfed the car completely. The cause of the fire is yet to be determined, and investigations are underway to understand the circumstances that led to this unexpected incident.Volvo, known for its commitment to safety, has not released an official statement regarding the incident at the time of writing. Owners of the C40 Recharge and electric vehicle enthusiasts are awaiting an explanation from the company, seeking reassurance about the safety standards of their vehicles.[embedded content]This incident is likely to spark discussions about the safety of electric cars, particularly as they become more prevalent on roads worldwide. While electric vehicles are generally considered to be safer than traditional combustion engine cars, isolated incidents like these can raise concerns among consumers and prompt manufacturers to revisit their safety protocols.What Can the Electric Car Industry Take Away from This Incident?It is important to note that the swift evacuation and the absence of injuries in this incident highlight the importance of vehicle occupants being aware of safety procedures and emergency exits. The incident also emphasizes the need for continued research and development in the electric vehicle industry to enhance safety measures and prevent such incidents in the future. As investigations into the Volvo C40 Recharge fire continue, the incident serves as a reminder for both manufacturers and consumers to prioritize and stay vigilant about the safety aspects of electric vehicles.Update – Volvo India StatementWe are aware of an incident on Saturday involving a fire on a C40 while being driven. The embedded safety features informed the driver to take the car aside and step out of the car. There were no injuries & all occupants were safe. Our Customer Care call center was online to guide the customer on requisite safety measures. At Volvo Cars we pride ourselves on the safety of our cars and have taken this incident very seriously. The said vehicle will be minutely examined by our technical experts to ascertain the cause. We are in touch with and continue to support the customer. More

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    Tata New EVs Incoming – Curvv, Harrier (2024), Sierra, Altroz (2025)

    Tata New EVs IncomingWith a diversified electric portfolio, Tata Motors can sustain its dominance in mass market EV segmentWith bestsellers like Nexon EV and Tiago EV, Tata Motors has captured a large chunk of the entry-level EV segment. Punch EV has also been launched and is expected to deliver similar results. With multiple affordable EVs, Tata Motors seems like the new Maruti of EV world. There’s more in store, as Tata Motors is readying 4 new SUVs for 2024-2025.Curvv EV, Harrier EV launch in 2024With its sporty design and hi-tech features, Curvv SUV has potential to disrupt the compact SUV segment. Curvv SUV will have both electric and ICE versions. The electric variant will be launched first to establish a lead over the upcoming Hyundai Creta EV. As of now, the compact SUV segment is dominated by the likes of Creta, Kia Seltos and Maruti Grand Vitara. The compact EV SUV segment will also see the launch of Maruti eVX next year. It will be Maruti’s first electric offering, based on an entirely new born-electric platform. eVX will be one of the key rivals of Tata Curvv EV.[embedded content]For Curvv EV, Tata is using the new, born-electric acti.ev platform. Punch EV was the first Tata car to get this new advanced architecture. Apart from Curvv EV, all other upcoming new Tata passenger EVs will share the same platform. Acti.ev architecture offers multiple benefits spread across technology, performance, modularity and optimal space utilization.After Curvv EV, Tata will introduce Harrier EV later this year. The production variant will closely match the design and features seen with the Harrier EV concept showcased at 2023 Auto Expo. Harrier EV will retain the Omega architecture, a derivative of the legendary Land Rover D8 architecture.New Tata Harrier EV design patentHowever, the platform has undergone some major modifications to support electrification. Also, Tata’s Gen 2 EV architecture has been combined to create the new architecture for Harrier EV. Tata is also working on Harrier turbo-petrol that will be launched after Harrier EV.Sierra EV, Altroz EV launch in 2025Tata had showcased the Sierra EV concept at 2020 and 2023 Auto Expo. Launch is expected in 2025. A number of features are borrowed from Tata Avinya concept. Sierra EV will retain the overall look and feel of its predecessor, while also introducing new styling elements. Some of the key highlights include sleek headlamps, fine mesh grille, rugged bumper and a backlit Tata logo (part of the full-width LED light bar). Sierra EV will have spacious interiors and a comprehensive range of advanced features. It is likely that Tata will also introduce the ICE version of Sierra.Altroz EV was showcased at the 2019 Geneva Motor Show. It is apparent that launch has been delayed due to the pandemic. Altroz will also share the new acti.ev platform like Punch EV. It could have a range of around 400-450 km. New features including ADAS are likely. More

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    Tata Punch.ev On-Road Prices Compared With Bigger SUVs

    New Tata Punch EV. Image – Shubhadip SinghaTata Punch.ev is not very small compared to sub 4m SUVs and looking at features, powertrains and dynamics, it is the best vehicle to buy under Rs. 16 lakh (on-road)With the launch of Punch.ev, Tata Motors aim to push electric mobility to the masses. Thus hoping to speed up electric adoption rate in India. Launched recently, Punch EV (sold as Punch.ev) costs between Rs. 11.99 lakh and Rs. 14.49 lakh (ex-sh). These are killer prices and Tata is offering sunroof and 7.2 kW fast charger for an additional Rs. 50,000 each.Tata Punch.ev On-Road Prices ComparedThe prices are introductory and are bound to change at a later date. However, buying one now will make a lot of sense. We have driven the car around Bengaluru at Punch.ev media drive event organised by Tata Motors including off-road track and on-road handling track. You can read our first impression review here.In the review, we concluded that car buyers looking at cars below Rs. 16 lakh across any segment should consider Punch.ev before finalising. To fully understand the gravity of Punch.ev’s brilliance, we should look at a car’s on-road pricing and compare it to sub 4m SUVs/crossovers.We say this because electric cars only attract nominal registration charges, while ICE cars attract full-fat road tax. In the price table below, you can see how Tata Punch.ev on-road prices hold up against on-road prices of IC engine equipped sub 4m SUVs. I took on-road prices from Karnataka of automatic variants. Read comparison with Citroen eC3 here.Tata Punch.ev On-road Prices ComparedThe prices mentioned above, are for reference only and are not accurate. They include indicatory RTO tax, insurance and other charges. When comparing on-road prices, Punch.ev starts to look a lot more VFM than larger sub 4m SUVs with an IC engine. For context, we took top-spec Punch.ev Empowered+ LR with 7.2 kW ACFC for this comparison.Why we call Punch.ev a game changer?At around Rs. 16 lakh (on-road, Karnataka), Punch.ev has a lot of features and equipment. For starters, Punch.ev gets an electronic parking brake with auto hold, a fancy gear selector with an integrated display, new-age steering wheel from Nexon with an illuminated logo, paddle shifters, ventilated front seats, all-four disc brakes, LED projector headlights and a lot more.Not just that, Punch.ev has sequential LED indicators, full-width LED DRL with welcome and goodbye functions, leatherette seat upholstery, leather-wrapped steering wheel, LED projector fog lights, cornering light function, auto headlights, rain-sensing wipers, auto-dimming IRVM, 360-degree camera, air purifier, telematics, fancy touch and toggle-style climate control panel and steering mounted controls.Tata Punch.ev interiorsThen comes the new 10.2-inch touchscreen infotainment screen with wireless Android Auto, Apple CarPlay and Arcade.ev app suite for video streaming from many OTT platforms. Add to it, a 10.2-inch single-piece TFT colour instrument cluster that is fully configurable with a full-screen maps feature and shows a plethora of vehicular information.A package of all these features and technology in itself is note-worthy at Rs. 16 lakh. But zooming out further, Punch.ev is an electric car with supremely low running costs. It offers a 35 kWh battery with LR models, packing 121 bhp and 190 Nm claiming 0-100 km/h sprint in 9.5 seconds. Range is a claimed 421 km, with a real-world range of around 300 km. There are drive modes and adjustable regen modes too.Tata Punch EV First Drive ReviewThe chassis optimisation of Acti.ev platform is definitely an added masala to an already incredible package. Tata Punch.ev is easily the most agile mainstream vehicle in sub 4m segment and promises spirited and sure-footed driving dynamics. Ride quality, rough road ability and off-road capability are pretty impressive too. More