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      Kia K-Charge introduced Across 1,000 charging stations in India

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      Kia K-Charge ServicesK-Charge services are offered via the ‘MyKia’ app, are free for 3 months for Kia customers and can also be availed by non-Kia customersOne of the major concerns of an electric vehicle user is its range. Range anxieties or being caught out of battery power has deterred many a buyer, steering them towards the more tried and tested petrol/diesel powered vehicles. Lack of ample electric charging stations, especially in rural and semi urban areas are a major concern that needs to be tackled prior to the wholehearted acceptance of EVs in the country.Kia India introduces K-Charge Charging Initiative Accessibility for Every EV UserKia India has announced a special charging initiative with K-Charge being offered for users of the EV6 electric vehicle in India. This new K-Charge initiative is being offered across 1000+ charging stations in the country. This initiative will be offered to all Kia customers free of charge for 3 months while non Kia customers can also avail of the services.Kia India’s K-Charge can be accessed via the ‘MyKia’ App and is done by NumoCity Technologies – a leading CMS service provider. It will help to alleviate EV users range anxieties. This facility is also an industry first where it is also being offered to non-Kia users and via Relux Charging Stations in a special tie up for free 3 months charging to Kia EV6 owners.For the K-Charge services, Kia India has partnered with CPOs (Charge Point Operators) – Statiq, Charge Zone, Relux Electric, Lion Charge and E-Fill chargers to expand EV infrastructure. K-Charge offers the following services via the MyKia App. It aids EV users to access a range of EV services, view and locate charging stations through a Made-in-India map service provider – Map My India, check charging slots and locate the closest charging station.New Kia EV6Payments can also be made via the wallet service within the app. K-Charge offers several benefits to customers. Apart from allowing them more confidence in terms of range, the facility also removes the need to rely on external applications thereby enhancing the vehicle ownership experience.Kia India K-Charge ConvenienceThe Kia EV6, is currently the only electric vehicle in the company portfolio as on date even as the EV5 electric SUV has also made its debut in August 2023with an expected launch in January 2025. With the ‘EV for All,’ initiative, Kia India is aiming to achieve annual sales target of one million EVs by 2026. It will take this expansion plan further to target 1.6 million units annually by 2030.The Kia EV6 facelift is also on test, debut of which could take place in early 2024. Though under heavy camouflage, the new EV6 is sure to come in with some feature update which could include dual-tone alloy wheels, new headlight and taillight clusters along with some new exterior colour options. It will, however, continue to draw power via the same 77.4 kWh battery pack mated to electric motors which on the RWD version offers 266 hp power and 350 Nm torque going up to 321 hp and 605 Nm on the AWD version. Claimed range is at 708 kms on full charge.Words from the manufacturerAs stated by Mr. Hardeep Singh Brar, National Head of Sales and Marketing – “K-Charge is not just a convenience initiative for our customers but a step towards making sustainable mobility convenient and accessible for everyone. We strongly believe that the technology transition towards a complete EV future ought to be smooth, and the K-Charge, integrated into the ‘MyKia’ app, is a well-thought-out step in that direction.With this aim, we will continue our efforts towards expanding the charging network through the onboarding of new CPOs in the future. We are confident that seamless, user-friendly solutions like these will play a pivotal role in accelerating the adoption of electric vehicles in India.” More

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      Kia EV6 Facelift Spotted Testing Again – Flagship EV9 Inspired Design

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      New Kia EV6 FaceliftAs opposed to significant exterior changes with Kia EV6 facelift, interiors might be carried over or see minimal changesIn the push towards electric cars, Kia and Hyundai have been very active by launching multiple global vehicles and market-specific vehicles. First among the global electric vehicles from Kia was EV6 which is getting a mid-life facelift soon. Test mules have been spotted abroad and feature a radical new fascia influenced by its flagship EV9.Kia EV6 Facelift Spotted Testing AgainThe South Korean brand’s first EV for India is among the 28 electric cars that money can buy in India. It has been garnering good sales numbers too, where CBU vehicles are concerned. Even though EV6 is relatively new, Kia is keen on giving it a facelift that should eventually make its way to India as well.Just like the Carnival facelift recently unveiled, Kia EV6 facelift is inspired by the company’s flagship EV9 electric SUV. At front, we can see a heavily redesigned fascia. Kia has thoroughly camouflaged EV6 facelift test mule at the front, side and rear areas. Usually, camouflaged areas are the ones that will bear design changes.Going by that logic, we could witness a heavily reworked fascia, slightly different sheet metal stamping in profile and minimal changes with rear section. For starters, the headlights are now vertically arranged like on EV9 electric SUV, as opposed to horizontal arrangement on current model.[embedded content]There seems to be a new alloy wheel design along with slightly different lines and creases in profile. Rear gets new LED signature in its tail lights. However, overall tail light design aesthetic seems to have been retained from current model. Front and rear bumpers will see a revision too, bringing more aggression and flair to its design.Changes in powertrains?On the inside, we don’t expect much difference over what Kia is offering with current EV6 on sale globally. That’s not a bad thing as it has twin 12.3-inch horizontal displays, one for infotainment and other for instrumentation. Two-spoke steering wheel, physical switches and dials for crucial elements are notable aspects with Kia EV6’ interiors.Where powertrains are concerned, Kia is offering two versions of EV6 in India – RWD and AWD. Both of them get the same 77.4 kWh battery pack. Single motor RWD version boasts 226 bhp and 350 Nm, whereas dual motor AWD version packs 321 bhp and 605 Nm. Both these versions are based on GT Line trim.EV9 inspired headlightsWe hope Kia India launches the maxed-out EV6 GT with facelifted model. This GT version gets 575 bhp and 740 Nm with eye-watering 0-100 km/h time of around 3.6 seconds. India launch could happen in 2025. Official confirmation regarding the same is due. More

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      1100th Hyundai Ioniq 5 EV Delivered To Shah Rukh Khan

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      1100th Hyundai Ioniq 5 EV Delivered To Shah Rukh KhanThe all-electric Ioniq 5 was presented to Bollywood actor Shah Rukh Khan in celebration of his 25-year-long association with the brand as ambassadorThe all-electric Hyundai Ioniq 5 became the first electric car in the lineup of Bollywood actor Shah Rukh Khan’s extensive lineup of luxury vehicles. The 1100th Ioniq 5 car for India, was presented to the actor who has been brand ambassador of Hyundai Motor India Ltd (HMIL) ever since it first began operations 25 years ago.Hyundai Ioniq 5 – Flagship EVThe 1100th Ioniq 5 was handed over the Khan at a presentation ceremony wherein Unsoo Kim, MD and CEO of Hyundai Motor India Ltd., expressed his gratitude to the Bollywood superstar was his continued support and trust in the company. It became the first ever electric car added to Shah Rukh Khan’s personal collection.Shah Rukh Khan also expressed his honour to receive this all-electric Hyundai Ioniq 5 which boasts of a unique design and premium features. Hyundai Ioniq 5, Hyundai’s second EV offering in India, following the Kona Electric, was introduced at the 2023 Auto Expo earlier this year.It is an all-electric, zero-emission crossover SUV that is positioned on the much acclaimed E-GMP platform. Brought into India via the CKD route, sales have crossed the 1000 unit mark. The Hyundai Ioniq 5, available in a top-spec RWD version, is priced at Rs 45.95 lakh (ex-showroom).The Hyundai Ioniq 5 draws its power via 72.6 kWh battery pack sending power to its electric motor to produce 216 hp power and 350 Nm torque. The electric crossover commands an ARAI-certified drive range of 631 km on full charge and can be charged via a 350 kW DC fast charger from 10-80 percent in 18 minutes.Hyundai Ioniq 5 –Dimensions, Features, Colour OptionsHyundai Ioniq 5 is positioned on the Electric-Global Modular Platform. It measures 4,635mm on length, 1,890mm in width and 1,625mm in height, with a 3,000mm long wheelbase. This GMP platform offers the Ioniq 5 better speed stability, cornering prowess as well as enhances driving dynamics while its cabin is large and spacious.Offered in exterior colour options of Gravity Gold Matte, Optic White and Midnight Black Pearl, the Hyundai Ioniq 5 sports a clamshell bonnet, LED headlamps, flush door handles and gets distinctive creases on its exterior while it rides on 20-inch alloy wheels. Towards the rear, LED tail lamps and LED high mount stop lamps add to its sporty appeal while features include a 12.3-inch instrument console and 12.3-inch touchscreen infotainment system.Hyundai Ioniq 5 also receives an 8-speaker premium Bose sound system, dual-zone climate controls, ventilated seating and an automatic tailgate. Safety is via Level 2 ADAS, 6 airbags, electronic stability control and ABS with EBD. Hyundai Ioniq 5 currently has the Kia EV6 as its only competition in India but is soon to face up with the upcoming Skoda Enyaq iV, Volvo XC40 Recharge and BMW i4. The company is also actively testing the Ioniq 7, though launch in India is not yet confirmed. More

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      Toyota Urban Crossover Concept Is Suzuki eVX Counterpart – Creta EV, BE.05 Rival

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      Toyota Urban Crossover ConceptThe fascia of Toyota Urban Crossover Concept seems to be derived from newer Toyota models like BZ and Crown series, along with PriusToyota had a slow shift where electric vehicles are concerned. But the shift is happening and in quite a swift manner. We say aggressive because Toyota Urban Crossover concept was recently showcased and may be the people’s electric car champion when launched in select markets by 2025. Pricing may start from around EUR 30,000 (Rs. 27 lakh).Toyota Urban Crossover ConceptIn the past months, Suzuki revealed eVX that looked close to production. eVX will be Suzuki’s first-ever all-electric car and will likely be launched at 2025 Auto Expo in India. Said eVX will be manufactured in India and exported globally in select markets. Testing for eVX has commenced both in India and abroad. There’s a reason why we’re mentioning Suzuki eVX before Toyota Urban Crossover Concept.Toyota has revealed exterior images of its Urban Crossover Concept. If you squint your eyes, it looks like Suzuki eVX. That is because Toyota is highly likely to be badge engineering Suzuki eVX to sell under their brand in various global markets. Just like eVX, Toyota Urban Crossover Concept might be manufactured in India too.Urban Crossover will be Toyota’s strongest contender in EV race in Europe in the coming years. It will bear an affordable price tag too, making it the most affordable Toyota EV in Europe. When launched, it will rival the likes of Jeep Avenger, Mini Aceman and Volvo EX30. In India, it could rival upcoming Mahindra BE.05 and Hyundai Creta EV.Toyota Urban Crossover ProfileEven though finer details of production-spec model are under wraps, Toyota Urban Crossover will measure 4,300mm long, 1,820mm wide and 1,620mm tall. Full details about production-spec model and its interiors will be revealed in first half of 2024. We can see a strong resemblance with Suzuki eVX, especially in profile.Design similar to Suzuki eVXThe thick C-pillar area is common between both Toyota Urban Crossover Concept and Suzuki eVX. Doors, front and rear quarter panels, chunky wheel arch claddings, flush door handles, rear roof spoiler, silhouette, tail light housings, and overall front and rear sections are similar between both cars.Differences are in LED signatures in tail lights, front and rear bumpers, headlights, front fascia, front DRL signatures and other areas. Fascia of Urban Crossover is inspired by new-age Toyota BZ and Crown series and Prius. Urban Crossover gets roofrails too, something eVX doesn’t. Interiors might be identical, with subtle trim changes between both vehicles to establish visual differences.Toyota Urban Crossover Similar Design To Suzuki eVXPowertrain-wise both vehicles could share the same battery and motor options. Speaking of, there may be two battery size options and an option for dual motor AWD setup to offer flexibility in pricing and performance. Range might be up to 250 miles or 400 km on a single charge and fast charging compatibility of up to 50 kW is expected. More

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      Tata Sumo Electric Render In Multiple Colours – Bolero EV Rival

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      Tata Sumo EV RenderIn electric format, Tata Sumo displays a high level of sophistication and finesse in comparison to the ICE modelTata has successfully resurrected the legendary Safari and there are plans to bring back Sierra as well. Another name that seems to have potential to get a second life is Tata Sumo. To understand the possibilities, digital maestro Pratyush Rout has come up with an exciting render of Tata Sumo electric.Tata Sumo electric renderICE version of Tata Sumo had a powerful street presence. It was one of the key factors that had made the SUV popular. In its electric format, Sumo comes across as a more premium offering. However, the core silhouette and robust street presence are not entirely lost. The boxy profile has been retained, with the edges getting a smooth makeover. The design updates make the SUV appropriate for family use as well.Tata Sumo EV RenderSome of the key highlights include sleek headlamps similar to that of Harrier, full-width LED lighting element, a closed-off grille, trapezoidal fog lamps and prominent front bumper. The heavy bonnet seen with the ICE version has been chiselled out to achieve a refined appearance. Side profile has squared wheel arches, large alloy wheels, flush door handles, dual-tone rear view mirrors and blacked-out B and C pillars. At rear, Sumo electric will look great with sporty tail lamps and rugged bumper.In its electric format, Sumo will shift to a monocoque chassis. With an electric powertrain, a lot more space should be available. Sumo electric will also be getting a range of new equipment and features. These could be borrowed from Tata’s updated models such as Harrier facelift and Safari facelift.Tata Sumo EV RenderSome of the key highlights could include a large touchscreen for the infotainment system, a full digital instrument console and Tata’s new two-spoke steering wheel with backlit Tata logo. Top-spec variants could be equipped with ADAS.Tata Sumo EV RenderTata Sumo electric performanceTata Sumo electric could use a tweaked version of the powertrain to be deployed with upcoming Harrier electric and Safari electric. Tata Sumo can have a range of around 400 km to 500 km. Just like existing Tata electric cars, Sumo electric could get a long-range version at a higher price point.Performance is expected to be much better in comparison to the ICE version. The last version, Sumo Gold, was equipped with a 3.0-litre four-cylinder diesel engine. It generated 85 hp of max power and 250 Nm of peak torque.Tata Sumo EV RenderWhile Sumo was quite popular once, it had to face stiff competition from rivals like Mahindra Bolero in later years. Prior to its discontinuation in 2019, there weren’t many takers for the SUV. With stricter safety and emission norms, a decision was taken to discontinue Tata Sumo. As Mahindra has confirmed Bolero electric, it is possible that Tata may bring back Sumo electric. It will be interesting to see how Sumo and Bolero face-off in electric format. More

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      Hyundai Creta EV Spotted Testing In Korea With Fake Exhaust

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      Hyundai Creta EV SpottedPerformance metrics with Hyundai Creta EV are likely to match the 158 bhp and 253 Nm of ICE Creta’s 1.5 turbo petrol with sub 10 second 0-100 km/h sprintIndia’s favourite compact SUV, Hyundai Creta, is currently on the verge of a facelift. Given that it is a Hyundai product, design is likely to be on the wilder side. New spy shots from South Korea reveal Hyundai Creta EV on testing which has a large fake exhaust strapped at the back. Design seems to be in line with upcoming ICE Creta facelift.Hyundai Creta EV Spotted TestingFor starters, Hyundai is leaning heavily on establishing a design that would stand out from other compact SUV rivals. We have seen this strategy with current Creta too, something that initially split opinions among enthusiasts. This step seems to be logical, considering there are now as many as nine contenders in compact SUV race.Front and the back are where most of Hyundai’s new design exercises are likely to fall into. As seen with spy shots both here and globally, Creta’s profile seems to be carried over. The recent Hyundai Creta EV spy shots from South Korea reveal a slightly different front fascia than what was observed with ICE Creta facelift test mules in India.Said spy shot is blurry and out of focus. Hence the amplified halo around LED DRLs. Speaking of LED DRLs, there seems to be four of them with the new test mules as opposed to two with previous samples. Initial speculations point towards a possibility of there being a different fascia with Creta EV than ICE Creta.Hyundai Creta EV FasciaThat said, there is a very big possibility that fascia is identical between upcoming Creta EV and Creta ICE versions. It might be down to the camouflage on newer spy shots that is slightly more open, revealing quad LED elements. Whereas, previous test mules donned camouflage that covered two of its inner LED elements.Fake exhaust suggests testing of electric powertrainThese Tetris-shaped LED elements are seen in rear tail lights too. Spilt headlight design with vertically arranged headlights might be common between both Creta EV and Creta ICE facelifts. Because of how blurry the spy shot is, we can’t say for sure. Front camera, radar module for ADAS suite and 360-degree view are likely features.On the inside, we can see a redesigned dashboard to accommodate a free-standing infotainment screen similar to Seltos facelift and multiple other Hyundai products. Powertrain-wise, this test mule is highly probable to be testing an electric powertrain owing to its fake exhaust.2024 Hyundai Creta Facelift SpiedAround 60 kWh battery with a claimed 500km range should prove logical with sub 10 seconds 0-100 km/h sprint. Matching ICE Creta’s 1.5L turbo petrol with 158 bhp and 253 Nm might be one of the primary goals for Hyundai. As per rivals, upcoming Tata Curvv EV, Citroen C3 Aircross EV and Honda Elevate EV are a few usual suspects. Hyundai Creta EV launch might happen by the end of 2024 or even 2025.Source More

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      New Electric G-Class Can Do 360-degree Turns Standstill – CEO Shows

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      New Electric G-ClassAs opposed to the 4X4 setup with front, middle and rear locking diff of ICE G Wagon, new Electric G-Class will pack one motor for each wheelWe all know what a G-Class or a G Wagon looks like. This iconic SUV is going electric and the company is retaining its iconic appeal intact. In a recent video, Mercedes-Benz CEO Ola Kallenius demonstrated off-roading prowess of new electric G-Class. In his words, Electric G is more capable of regular ICE G. Which is interesting.New Electric G-Class shows off-roading prowessA lot of manufacturers tend to induce a certain futuristic design appeal with their electric vehicles. This futuristic design will create an impression of driving the future and it leans towards aerodynamic efficiency too, which is crucial for any EV. With new Electric G-Class, Mercedes is keeping the design intact.The round headlights with LED DRLs, iconic G-Class grill with large Mercedes-Benz three-pointed star logo, flared wheel arches, exposed rain gutters, side-mounted tailgate, spare wheel on tailgate, upright windscreen, externally hinged doors and all the charades that make a G-Class, are present on Electric G-Class.This way, there is no deviation from 40 years of design culmination and curation that has made a G-Class so iconic and recognisable. The same boxy design silhouette is present that commands a lot of respect in automotive industry. Looking at the way CEO Ola Kallenius kept on referring to prototype as Electric G, we would reckon this vehicle will not fall under EQ umbrella.[embedded content]Mercedes-Benz manufactures every single G-Class in Graz, Austria, where G-Class was born. Before launching any G-Class the company makes sure that it is Schockl-proof. Schockl is a mountain in Graz. Where a G-Class prototype takes a tough and challenging off-road course 336 times successfully.Standstill 360-degree turn like Yangwang U8With Electric G, Mercedes-Benz is implementing a different axle concept with four electric motors powering four wheels. This way, Mercedes can unlock torque vectoring with granular control of individual wheel to unlock special abilities that regular ICE G-Class could never dream of achieving.Most impressive of these abilities is 360-degree turns from a standstill on loose traction surfaces and even nudge the car into a 90-degree turn when terrain gets trickier. Mercedes-Benz CEO Ola Kallenius calls it a ‘G Turn’. We have seen BYD Yangwang U8 pull off similar feats. U8 could also float and traverse on water, though. Something that was not demonstrated on new Electric G-Class.New Electric G-Class iconic design retainedThe company highlighted Dynamic Seats feature on Electric G. This feature senses movement of occupant’s body and hugs them to counteract some of the motion that translates into the cabin on rough terrains. There was some light shed on new Electric G-Class’ ‘Underride Guard’ that is made of two layers of carbon fibre and a special compound sandwiched between.Exact powertrain details weren’t divulged. But we can expect a large battery that is easily 100+ kWh. To overcome aerodynamics of a brick-like vehicle. 450+ km range, 600+ bhp and close to 1000 Nm od combined torque are expected. Considering Mercedes-Benz didn’t show the interiors, there may be a different Electric G specific dashboard too. More details will follow. More

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      BYD Unveils New Energy Vehicles Range – Tesla Model Y Rival Sea Lion 07

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      BYD Sea Lion 07 EVAt the 21st Guangzhou International Automobile Exhibition, BYD has showcased new products, platforms and advanced technologiesHosting four booths at the 21st Guangzhou International Automobile Exhibition, BYD is displaying its present and future capabilities to the entire world. The company’s ever-expanding global presence is powered by a comprehensive range of advanced technologies and innovations. As the world embraces electrification, BYD has showcased its full lineup of new energy vehicles at the Guangzhou auto exhibition.Sea Lion 07 – Tesla Model Y rivalAs part of its Ocean Series, BYD has unveiled the Sea Lion 07 EV. This is the first mid-sized pure electric SUV launched by the company. Sea Lion 07 utilizes the Ocean Aesthetics design language and will be available in both rear wheel and four-wheel drive architectures. Tech integrations include iTAC intelligent torque control and cell to body (CTB) technology. In CBT, the Blade battery is integrated into the body of the vehicle. CBT tech can also be seen with India-bound BYD Seal electric sedan.BYD Sea Lion 07 DesignBYD Sea Lion 07 will primarily rival Tesla Model Y. Sea Lion 07 has been designed by ex-Audi designer Wolfgang Egger, who currently heads the design department at BYD. The SUV is based on the e-platform 3.0. It is 4,830 mm in length, 1,925 mm in width, 1,620 mm in height and has a wheelbase of 2,930 mm. Tesla Model Y is smaller in comparison. It is 4,750 mm long, 1,920 mm wide, 1,623 mm tall and has a wheelbase of 2,891 mm.BYD Sea Lion 07 will be more affordable than Tesla Model Y. It is expected to be available in the price range of 200,000 to 260,000 yuan (approx. Rs 23.32 lakh to Rs 30.32 lakh). In comparison, Tesla Model Y is available in the range of 266,400 and 363,900 yuan (approx. Rs 31.06 lakh to Rs 42.44 lakh).BYD e4 Concept and Supercar PlatformYangwang e4 Concept car and supercar platformYangwang is a premium sub-brand of BYD. The primary attraction was the e4 concept car. e4 concept car gets some pioneering features such as a three-in-one technology for driving, braking, and steering.The e4 concept does not have conventional mechanical systems such as steering gear and braking mechanisms. The new energy Yangwang U8 off-road SUV and the all-electric supercar Yangwang U9 were also showcased. Interiors of Yangwang U9, revealed for the first time, presented a new level of sportiness and technological sophistication.BYD Denza D9 PremierDenza D9 PREMIERDenza is another high-end sub-brand of BYD. The D9 PREMIER inaugural edition was unveiled with four seats and a comprehensive range of hi-tech features. Exteriors are differentiated with a galaxy dual-tone theme, whereas interiors boast of intangible cultural heritage gilding techniques. Some of the key features include a premier intelligent customized cockpit, 22 DEVIALET audio speakers and an 8-inch armrest screen.Starting December, High-speed NOA (Navigate on Autopilot) will be available to consumers. In Q1, 2024, users will also have access to urban NOA. Other features such as light map mode, sentry mode, and commute mode will be introduced in a phased manner next year.BYD Fangcheng Bao 5FANGCHENGBAO BAO 5FANGCHENGBAO, the professional personalized sub-brand of BYD, unveiled the BAO 5 at the exhibition. The ‘Super Hybrid Hardcore SUV’ was recently launched and is available at a starting price of 289,800 yuan or Rs 33.79 lakh. Tech integrations include DMO and DiSus-P. The SUV utilizes an ultra-safe Blade battery that has 5-layers of protection structure. Moreover, it is shielded by a ring-type double-protection system. More