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      Tata Avinya To Get JLR EMA Platform – Major Gains In Range, Safety, Performance

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      Tata Avinya production spec RenderAided by JLR’s EMA platform, Tata Avinya will spawn a new range of truly world-class EVsTo improve competencies, Tata Motors has been focusing on increasing synergies between its subsidiaries. A relevant example is Harrier and Safari, which have benefited immensely from JLR’s D8 platform. And now, something similar is being targeted for upcoming Avinya electric SUV.Avinya to get JLR’s EMA platformAs may be recalled, Tata has created an entirely new business subsidiary named Tata Passenger Electric Mobility Ltd (TPEM) to focus exclusively on EVs. This will allow the company to handle the tough competition that is expected in EV space in the coming years. To give it more strength, a collaboration has been formed between Tata Passenger Electric Mobility Ltd (TPEM) and Jaguar Land Rover Plc (JLR). The latter is also a fully-owned subsidiary of Tata Motors. The collaboration will ensure that upcoming Avinya and other EVs based on that platform can be launched within the targeted time frame.Tata AVINYA Electric ConceptAs part of the Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between the two firms, JLR will be licensing its Electrified Modular Architecture (EMA) platform to TPEM. For the services and technology sharing, TPEM will be paying a royalty fee to JLR. It will cover sharing of manufacturing know-hows, electrical architecture, battery pack and electric drive unit.JLR’s EMA platform will play a key role in expediting the development of TPEM’s ‘premium pure electric’ vehicles series ‘Avinya’. In addition to the MoU, the two firms will also sign an Engineering Services Agreement (ESA). This will take care of any change content requirements that TPEM may have for the first vehicle development.New Tata AvinyaJLR’s EMA platform – key benefitsTPEM’s collaboration with JLR is a step in the right direction. It will allow significant reduction in the development cost of Avinya range of EVs. JLR is ahead in the game and transferring the know-how and technology to another Tata subsidiary makes sense. It will enable Avinya series EVs to be globally competitive and future proof.Talking about JLR’s EMA platform, it will be used for JLR’s next generation of ‘pure electric’ mid-sized SUVs for international markets. These are scheduled to be launched from 2025 onwards. The EMA platform has been developed to offer a range of benefits. It includes significant gains across interior space, connectivity, comfort, software, over the air capabilities and advanced electrical and electronic (E&E) architecture. EMA platform will utilize a highly integrated propulsion system, comprising cell to pack battery technology, battery management and charging system. It will be able to deliver world class range and vehicle efficiency.With JLR’s assistance, TPEM will be able expedite its entry into the high-end EV segment. The advanced E&E architecture developed by JLR supports upgrades to L2+ autonomy, carrying all advanced connectivity, comfort and convenience features. TPEM will also gain in terms of faster adoption of safety (5-star EuroNCAP), Features Over the Air (FOTA), Software Over the Air (SOTA) and ultrafast charging systems for high performance vehicles. More

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      Toyota Hiace BEV Concept Debuts With Multiple Applications

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      Toyota Hiace BEV Concept InteriorsDesigned for versatility, Toyota Hiace BEV concept can take up various roles such as tourist vehicle, cargo carrier, ambulance, etc.At the ongoing Japan Mobility Show, Toyota has unveiled the Hiace BEV concept. It has been created by Toyota Auto Body, a subsidiary of Toyota. As compared to the standard ICE model, Hiace BEV gets refreshed exteriors and interiors in line with its electric character. The high level of customization options available for the cargo bay is another key USP of Hiace fully electric van.Toyota Hiace BEV concept featuresHiace BEV concept has the core silhouette of 6th-gen Hiace that was introduced in 2019. However, the exteriors are entirely new. The van has a futuristic look and feel. It continues to have a dominating street presence, as seen with standard ICE variants. Much of it comes from its massive size, a prominent front fascia and boxy overall profile.Hiace BEV utilizes the Normal/Standard Roof body of ICE Hiace that is 5,265 mm long, 1,950 mm wide and 1,990 mm tall. Wheelbase is 3,210 mm. But Hiace BEV is actually 15 mm longer, owing to its updated front section. There is plenty of cargo space, 1,715 mm wide and 1,270 mm tall, to be exact.The cargo area can be used as is or customized with different types of shelves, racks, drawers, etc. In terms of its visual appeal, Hiace BEV easily qualifies as the most attractive version till date. The level of evolution the vehicle has undergone is evident when compared to the predecessors dating back to 1967. All throughout, the van has gotten smarter and larger.Toyota Hiace BEV Concept FasciaHiace BEV concept gets some unique features such as pixel-shaped LED headlamps, sleek LED DRLs doubling as turn indicators, a giant closed-off grille and contrasting yellow lighting elements on the corners. On the sides, Hiace BEV has large sliding doors, body-coloured door handles, rectangular rear-view mirrors, circular wheel arches and thick body cladding.There’s a distinctive character line that stretches all the way from the front headlamps to the tail lamps. Alloy wheels are entirely new and designed for enhanced aerodynamics. Tail lamps are vertically stacked. There is an option to choose a barn door or a regular tailgate based on requirement. A video released by Toyota showcases another variant that has a longer wheelbase, side windows and higher roof.Toyota Hiace BEV concept interiorsWhile the focus is on moving stuff, Hiace BEV gets a range of premium features. There’s a large vertically stacked infotainment touchscreen that appears to be more than 14-inches in size. It has in-built turn-by-turn navigation. The driver also has access to a large fully digital instrument cluster. The van’s connectivity suite offers a range of remote functions. In place of the gear lever used with standard ICE Hiace, the BEV version has a rotary dial.Toyota Hiace BEV Concept Interior LayoutToyota has not revealed any details about the powertrain. However, it would be safe to assume that the BEV version’s performance will be comparable to its ICE sibling. With ample space for a large battery pack, Hiace BEV will have adequate range to manage the day’s tasks.Toyota Hiace BEV Concept Barn Door Option More

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      Mahindra Thar Electric Homologated – Prepping For New Adventures

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      Mahindra Thar Electric HomologatedAs compared to existing Thar that has a ladder frame chassis, Thar electric will utilize Mahindra’s advanced INGLO platformEarlier this year in August, Mahindra had unveiled the Thar electric SUV concept. It had received wide appreciation for its splendid design and enhanced off-roading capabilities. Thar electric, which will go on sale as Thar.e, has now been homologated in India.Thar electric – Improving the iconic designGlobally, the armoured look is becoming the new normal for several of the next-gen off-road focused SUVs. Thar electric seems to be working on the same lines. The design is so unique that it’s difficult even to relate it to existing ICE-based Thar. Also helps to wipe the slate clean, in view of legal hurdles Thar had to face in the past. All-new Thar electric is bold, brawny, brutish and born to conquer.Mahindra Thar Electric HomologatedSome of the key highlights of Thar.e include squarish LED headlamps with integrated DRLs, rugged front and rear bumper, new clamshell bonnet and large wheel arches. The SUV gets a bold new design for the alloy wheels. These are shod with off-road tyres with deep tread patterns. The flat roof and rear section create the signature boxy profile. Doors have exposed hinges, which complement the SUV’s rugged character.Inside, Thar.e will have a large touchscreen and a fully digital instrument console. The cockpit area wears a decluttered look, enhancing the sense of roominess. The centre console is placed high, ensuring a clear demarcation of individual spaces. Thar electric has a new steering wheel with mounted controls. The large, robust grab handles are functionally relevant and hint towards the SUV’s off-roading capabilities.New Mahindra Thar ElectricMahindra Thar.e performanceMahindra is yet to reveal powertrain details of Thar electric. However, it will be safe to assume that the electric version will have even better capabilities than existing ICE variant. Both 3-door and 5-door models will be on offer. These will have dual motor setup. The INGLO platform will be using BYD’s Blade and Prismatic cells that are known for their durability and long range.Ground clearance of Thar electric will be 250 mm to 300 mm. Front and rear overhang will be kept as low as possible. It will be around 640 mm – 680 mm and 680 mm – 740 mm, respectively. Wheelbase will be 2,775 mm to 2,975 mm. Thar electric will have best in class approach angle, departure angle, ramp-over angle and water wading capabilities.While Thar electric is quite tempting, enthusiasts may have to wait several months before they can take it for a test ride. Mahindra has its hands full, managing existing deliveries as well as working on its electric range. Mahindra will be electrifying its existing ICE SUVs and also introduce its born-electric SUVs. All of these will take time. Thar electric is unlikely to launch before 2026. It can even stretch to 2027. More

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      India-bound BYD Seal Euro NCAP Results Out – Joins 5 Star Club!

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      BYD Seal Euro NCAP 5 Star ratingBYD Seal Euro NCAP crash tests yield 89% in adult and 87% in child occupant protection along with 82% in vulnerable road users and 76% in safety assistThe Chinese EV juggernaut, BYD, has been on the verge of expanding its electric vehicle portfolio in India. Starting with e6 eMPV for commercial segment, BYD has expanded quite a bit with e6 for private buyers and Atto 3 eSUV. The third vehicle for BYD in India is Seal sedan, which has recently scored an impressive 5 stars in Euro NCAP crash tests.India-bound BYD Seal scores 5 stars in Euro NCAPEuro NCAP crash-tested the new BYD Seal electric sedan through their rigorous protocols. Result of this was an impressive 5 Stars crash safety rating. Tested car was BYD Seal ‘Design’ trim 4X2 LHD model. It is a four-door saloon (sedan) weighing 2091 kg in total. Tested model came equipped with front and side airbags, missing a knee airbag.Kit like seat belt reminders, seat belt pre-tensioner, child presence detectors and load limiters were standard fitment. Active safety kit included multiple ADAS features like auto braking 9front and rear), speed assistance, lane assistance and fatigue detection, among others were part of standard fitment as well.For adult occupant crash tests, Euro NCAP tested BYD Seal electric sedan for frontal impact, lateral impact and rear impact. The car scored 13.5/16 points in frontal impact, 16/16 for lateral impact, 3.7 /4 points for rear impact and 2.5/4 points for rescue extrication. All of this combined, BYD Seal bagged a total of 35.8 points, which turns out to be 89% in adult occupant protection.[embedded content]Where child protection is concerned, BYD Seal scored 24/24 points in crash tests based on 6 and 10 year old children. 7/13 points were awarded for safety features and 12/12 points for CRS installation check tests. With 43 points, Euro NCAP awarded 87% positive crash results in child protection.In vulnerable road users test, BYD Seal scored a total of 51.7 points resulting in 82% and a total of 13.8 points resulting in 76% score in Safety systems. All of these combined, BYD has awarded BYD Seal electric sedan a total of 5 Stars, with vehicle structure proving stable in the event of an unfortunate crash.When will it launch in India?BYD Seal is particularly important for India as the company has already debuted in India at 2023 Auto Expo. Seal even went live on BYD India’s official site. A large hero section of BYD India’s website shows impressive headline figures for Seal sedan.BYD Seal Euro NCAP reportSpeaking of headline figures, BYD Seal can hit 100 km/h from a standstill, in just 3.8 seconds, which is upper-tier sports car territory. Along with that, 700 km of range from a single charge, 50:50 weight distribution and 0.219 Cd air drag coefficient.Performance metrics like this are possible from the top-spec 82.5 kWh battery equipped model with dual motor layout boasting 530 bhp and 670 Nm along with AWD. There is a lower-spec model with a 61.4 kWh battery and single motor RWD architecture with 204 bhp.In Thailand, base BYD Seal starts from 1.32 million Baht (Rs. 30 lakh). When launched in India in 2024, we could only expect the higher-spec vehicle, costing around Rs. 60 lakh and rivalling the likes of Kia EV6 and BMW i4. We hope BYD also launch Seagull hatchback in India. More

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      Toyota Electric Land Cruiser SE, EPU Electric Pickup, Neo Steer Pedal-less Drive Debuts

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      Toyota Electric Land Cruiser SE ConceptAs of now, Toyota Electric Land Cruiser SE is in concept phase and is the first monocoque or electric vehicle to bear LC badgeUpcoming Japan Mobility Show is quite a spectacle where many OEMs showcase the coolest tech they’re currently working on. Ahead of the show commencing later this month at Tokyo, there will be sneak peeks. From Toyota, the company has teased two new electric vehicle concepts, featuring many firsts for the brand.Toyota Electric Land Cruiser ConceptThis is the first time Toyota Land Cruiser and electric has been used in a sentence together. For starters, Toyota electric Land Cruiser SE is a concept vehicle that the company is showcasing. Unlike the recently unveiled 2024 Land Cruiser, new Land Cruiser Prado and Land Cruiser 70 Series, Land Cruiser SE is a fully electric monocoque SUV.Yeah! The first monocoque vehicle with Land Cruiser badge. This is a three-row SUV with comparable size to a Grand Highlander and recently launched Century SUV. Speaking of dimensions, Land Cruiser SE is 5130 mm long, 1981 mm wide and 1701 mm tall. Toyota didn’t reveal finer details about this vehicle, especially regarding powertrains.That said, it will have a torquey driving experience owing to its electric powertrains. Modern and minimalist front fascia, wide LED DRL signature, connected tail lights, flush door handles, fuss-free detailing in profile, boxy proportions, large wheels, low profile tyres and rearview cameras are notable elements. This seems to be more of an on-road vehicle than what the Land Cruiser badging suggests.Toyota Electric Land Cruiser SE Concept2024 Land Cruiser with ‘Neo Steer’ tech – Look ma, no pedals!At 2023 Japan Mobility Show, Toyota will showcase its new ‘Neo Steer’ steering yoke that has accelerator and brakes built in. This negates the need for traditional accelerator and brake pedals (considering clutch pedals are closing extinction in USA). Inspiration for this steering yoke is from motorcycle handles.Toyota has placed accelerator and brake at right side of the steering yoke. This is a perfect solution for people with disabilities, especially for drivers with lower limb impairment. Toyota will showcase this tech on a 2024 Land Crusier.Toyota ‘Neo Steer’ pedal-less drive conceptToyota EPU electric pickup truck conceptFor the first time, Toyota is stepping foot into electric pickup world with EPU concept and it looks close to production and poses a strong proposition for going into production. This is a smaller pickup truck and will primarily rival the likes of Ford Maverick and Hyundai Santa Cruz in USA. Just like Santa Cruz, Toyota EPU doesn’t have a physically separated load bay.This suggests that Toyota EPU is not meant for the full range of capabilities of a regular ladder-frame pickup truck. EPU is underpinned by a monocoque chassis and comes with an electric powertrain. On the inside, it boasts a free-standing display, that houses both infotainment and instrumentation related info.Toyota EPU Electric Pickup Truck Concept More

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      Import Duty On EVs Likely To Reduce – Give Boost To Tesla, Mercedes, BMW, Audi

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      Tesla India Factory could soon be realityAs compared to 100% import duty on cars costing more than $40,000, government is thinking about reducing tax to just 15%Make in India has benefitted various sectors such as electronics manufacturing, pharmaceuticals, renewable energy, defence manufacturing, space, food processing, etc. The automobile and automobile components manufacturers have also benefited from Make in India initiative. Going forward, the government may implement a more flexible approach for specific auto segments such as electric vehicles.Tesla EVs could get cheaperTesla has been eying the Indian EV space since several years. However, due to the high import duty, plans for India have been moving at a slow pace. While there is no official confirmation from the government, it appears that a middle ground is being worked out.One of Tesla’s primary conditions was to test the Indian market, before committing to setting up a manufacturing unit in the country. For this, Tesla wanted the import duties to be scrapped. But that was not accepted, as the government was committed to its Make it India initiative.New report reveals that the Indian government is now working on a more inclusive electric vehicle policy. It will enable carmakers like Tesla to test the waters before committing huge investments. Tesla has already rented space in India, which can be deemed as a positive development in the company’s plan to start India operations.As per the new electric vehicle policy being framed, import duty on high-end electric cars could be reduced to just 15%. This will allow carmakers like Tesla to import fully-built (CBU) EVs into India. The reduction in import duty will also benefit other luxury players such as BMW, Mercedes, Audi and Volvo. It will result in significant reduction in prices of imported luxury electric vehicles.Provisions to support Make in IndiaWhile import taxes for premium EVs could be lowered, it will be applicable with a set of conditions. This will ensure that the new electric vehicle policy continues to support the Make in India initiative. Taxes will be lowered only if the company commits to some level of local manufacturing in the initial stages. The overall quantum of local manufacturing will have to be increased gradually. Carmakers will also be required to start sourcing components locally. They will need to provide bank guarantees that will cover for any defaults in their commitments.The bank guarantees will also be used to create an ecosystem for local suppliers. In the first two years, local sourcing will have to be around 20%. By the fourth year, local sourcing will need to be increased to around 40%. The new electric vehicle policy is currently in draft stages. So, these numbers may change in the final version.While lowering taxes for high-end EVs may have its benefits, the government should be watchful of players that may use this as an opportunity to flood the market with imported cars. A provision for anti-dumping duty can be made in the new EV policy. This will help create a level-playing field for local manufacturers, who have invested a great deal of money in building their EV portfolio.Source More

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      Euro-spec Citroen eC3 Breaks Cover – How Much Better Than Indian Model?

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      Euro-spec Citroen eC3 hatchbackEven though Euro-spec Citroen eC3 is based on a heavily modified version of Indian eC3’s CC21 platform, there are stark differences between both modelsThe iconic French carmaker, Citroen, has taken covers off its new Euro-spec eC3 electric hatchback. This is touted for European market and is different from the eC3 hatchback that Citroen has on offer in India. So, the obvious question arises as to just how much better is Euro-spec Citroen eC3 is, than India-spec Citroen eC3.Euro-spec Citroen eC3 breaks coverFor starters, Euro-spec Citroen eC3 is significantly more premium-looking than India-spec Citroen eC3. Even though the overall silhouette and proportions are comparable, Euro model looks a lot more sophisticated. Starting with the fascia, Euro model has Citroen’s new logo that sits proudly on its nose.There are significantly more stylish LED DRL signatures with Euro model and it has LED headlights between DRLs. Lower bumper has two black plastic trims, while there are sleeker and squarish fog light housings closer to the centre. There are smaller air dams too as Euro-spec Citroen eC3 is electric only, unlike Indian model.Basic silhouette is closer between two models. But, India-spec models have cheaper-feeling lift-type door handles and fender-mounted turn indicators, which are turn-offs. Because top-spec Shine trim is still not on offer with India-spec eC3, there are no alloy wheels, while Euro model has stylish 17-inch alloy wheels.Euro-spec Citroen eC3 dashboardThere are no LED tail light elements with Indian model along with dual-tone bumper designs. The muscular power bulges on bonnet are more pronounced with Euro-spec model and the same trend continues with the rest of sheet metal profiling and detailing of the rest of its exterior design.Which is plusher on the inside?Euro-spec Citroen eC3 has a lot more tech and premiumness to offer than India-spec eC3. For starters, the steering on Euro model is chunkier and gets leather cladding and stitching. The dual-layered dashboard looks like it has fabric cladding for a soft-touch feel. AC vents, buttons, switches and interior trims are a lot more premium and sophisticated too.Features including auto climate control, auto-dimming IRVM, auto headlights, rain-sensing wipers, a heads-up display, a higher-res 10.25-inch touchscreen infotainment screen, a sophisticated centre console, wireless phone charging, front centre armrest are exclusive to Euro-spec Citroen eC3 only.Euro-spec Citroen eC3 sophisticated designEuro model is based on a heavily modified version of Indian eC3’s CC21 platform, christened ‘Smart Car’ platform. Given that it is for European market, there will be a thorough rework where crash safety is concerned. Other than that, Euro model will pack better safety tech and other mandated compliances too.In terms of powertrains, India-spec Citroen eC3 packs a smaller 29.2 kWh battery pack that powers a 57 PS single electric motor, promising 320 km of range. Euro model has a larger 44 kWh battery pack, 113 PS electric motors, promising 320 km range.We don’t expect European model to go on sale in India. But when Citroen is facelifting C3 in India, we now know where the inspiration will be drawn from. The company recently launched C3 Aircross in India. More

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      Toyota FT-Se E-Sportscar And FT-3e E-SUV Concepts Teased

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      Toyota FT-Se electric sportscar conceptToyota FT-SE electric sportscar concept looks different than the current Supra or GR86 on sale and resembles Sports EV conceptThe Japanese automotive juggernaut, Toyota, is not seldom considered a major player in electric car realm. That said, Toyota has been gradually pushing EVs in the recent past and is actively pursuing electric powertrains. Result of this, are recently teased Toyota FT-Se electric sportscar and FT-3e electric SUV concepts.Toyota FT-Se E-SportscarAhead of 2023 Japan Mobility Show in Tokyo, Toyota has teased two new electric vehicle concepts. The more interesting of the two is FT-Se electric sportscar concept. As of now, Toyota has only teased two images, and both of them show this futuristic electric sportscar partially. In some angles, even looks like an evolution of Sports EV concept shown before.From what we can see, FT-Se concept is a flamboyant sportscar with sharp profiling and character lines that strike a definitive character. The wheel track is very wide, jutting away from passenger compartment quite a bit. This will lend superb riding dynamics and stability while sharp cornering.There is an aggressive wide body that covers these wheels and forms aero channels to cut down air drag. Wheels look aerodynamic too and should enhance the electric range, owing to their slippery nature. Roof line is quite narrow and neatly flows towards the rear in a tear-drop sort of shape.Toyota FT-Se interiorThis is where Toyota has given a fixed spoiler that blends into its body panels neatly. LED tail lights are quite wide and we can also see a massive rear diffuser. The GR badging on the outside and in the interiors suggests a sporty edge. On the inside, there is a landscape screen for instrumentation and a portrait screen for infotainment.Toyota FT-3e E-SUVThe second concept that Toyota teased is FT-3e electric SUV that, quite frankly, takes design cues from Toyota bZ4X. It will share most of its electric platform and powertrains with FT-Se sportscar. Based on the limited number of teasers, Toyota FT-3e will be less flamboyant and is likely to be targeted at mainstream audience.We can see quite simplistic body lines that form this electric crossover / SUV. There are sleek wrap-around LED tail lights that get a connected design along with glimpses of sleek rear LED fog lights. There are interesting LED patterns on running board which lend an interesting design detail.Toyota FT-3eThe rear spoiler, squared-off rear section, flush-mounted door handles, flared wheel arches with gloss black finish, aerodynamic channels in front fenders, a silver finish rear skid plate and more. Exact powertrain details are still under wraps. Toyota will divulge more information at 2023 Japan Mobility Show.Toyota FT-3e Profile More