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    2022 MG ZS Electric Facelift Spied 1st Time – Tata Nexon EV Rival

    2022 MG ZS Electric SUV Spied. Image – ParthThe facelifted MG ZS EV will feature an updated exterior design in line with the recently launched European model but with different battery pack options
    A few months ago, MG Motor launched a new compact C-segment SUV named Astor which is based on the petrol version of ZS sold internationally. However, Astor is based on the facelifted ZS unlike the pre-facelift ZS EV currently on sale in India. MG Motor has been selling the electric crossover in the country since early 2020.
    MG Motor is now planning to launch a facelifted version of the ZS EV in India. A test mule of the same has been caught on camera for the first time near the company’s manufacturing facility in Halol, Gujarat. The image is credit to automotive enthusiast Parth, who shared the image via Rushlane Spylane. The prototype spotted was heavily wrapped under camouflage.
    2022 MG ZS Electric Facelift – Exterior Updated
    Since the test mule is completely covered by camouflage, it is difficult to decode the exterior design of the SUV. However, the 2022 MG ZS Electric Facelift is expected to be designed in line with Astor and the facelifted ZS EV model which made its debut in Europe three months ago. The updated exterior should feature a new hexagonal closed-off front grille with a celestial pattern flanked by sleeker LED headlamps on each side.
    Another notable difference is the reprofiled front bumper with a larger and wider air dam. That said, a crossover-ish silhouette of the current model will be carried forward to the upcoming model. The test mule is seen standing on the same set of 17-inch multi-spoke alloy wheels as the current ZS EV. Rear end of the crossover should be more or less similar with slightly revised LED taillamps.
    2022 MG ZS Electric SUV Spied
    Features Expected
    Interiors of the ZS EV facelift are also not likely to boast any dramatic updates. It should feature the same dashboard layout with highlights such as a new 10.1-inch touchscreen infotainment display and an updated fully digital instrument console. Other features expected to be on offer include Android Auto and Apple CarPlay (both probably wireless) and MG’s i-Smart connected car technology.
    Updated Powertrain- New battery on offer
    There is still no clarity if the 2022 MG ZS Electric will receive an updated powertrain. Currently, ZS EV in India is powered by a 44.5 kWh battery pack which offers a claimed range of 419km on a single charge. This powertrain returns an output of 141 bhp and 353 Nm of peak torque. In international markets, the new ZS EV facelift is offered with two battery options- a 51kWh unit and a 72kWh unit.
    As per recent Type Approval document, MG could offer a smaller battery pack in the 2022 ZS EV which will offer a lower range but will come with a lower price tag as compared to the current model. In all probability, the updated ZS EV will now be equipped with a battery capacity of 40kWh which was revealed in the approval document leaked in August last year.
    2022 MG ZS Electric SUV Spied
    MG Motor will also offer multiple charging options in the new ZS EV facelift. Presently, a 7.4kW AC charger takes six to eight hours to get fully juiced up. On the other hand, a 50kW DC fast charger takes less than 50 minutes to juice up the battery from zero to eighty percent. Current MG ZS EV is priced from Rs 21.5 lakh for base trim and costs Rs 25.18 lakh for top trim – ex-sh prices. More

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    New Sony 7 Seater Electric SUV Debuts – Could Enter Production

    Sony 7 Seater Electric SUVIf and when launched, the Vision-S 02 electric SUV from Sony would lock horns with Tesla Model Y crossover
    Electric mobility is the future of vehicular movement across the world. This has presented an opportunity to all brands across various industries to be part of the ongoing electric vehicle (EV) revolution which will see the advent of many path-breaking technologies in coming years.
    Many technology companies who have had expertise in electronic goods and appliances are now planning to step into EV manufacturing. One of the major brands being Sony which presented its first electric car- the Vision-S Concept back in early 2020.
    Sony 7 Seater Electric SUV Concept
    The Japanese technology giant has now previewed its second concept electric car in the form of Vision-S 02. Unlike Vision-S which is an electric sedan, Vision-S 02 is an electric SUV and both EV concepts were recently presented at the Consumer Electronics Show (CES) in Las Vegas.
    Sony even started testing road-legal prototypes of Vision-S around the same time last year, however, it has been reported that the electric sedan is unlikely to reach production stage. On the other hand, speculations are rife that Vision-S 02 could reach production at some point in the future. The electric SUV is based on the same platform as its sedan sibling and gets a four- as well as a seven-seat layout.
    Sony 7 Seater Electric SUV
    Sony Vision-S 02: Exterior Highlights
    The crossover measures 4,895mm in length, 1,930mm in width and 1,651mm in height which puts it in the same ballpark as Tesla Model Y. In the concept form, Vision-S 02 weighs 2,480kg. On the outset, Vision-S 02 looks very futuristic, as most upcoming premium born electric vehicles do. Upfront, the closed-off nose and eye-shaped headlights give it a quirky look.
    A sloping roofline gives it a proper Coupe SUV appeal. Other exterior highlights such as a sculpted bonnet, a wide air dam and a dual-tone paint scheme accentuate its sporty nature. Side profile is dominated by highlights such as designer 20-inch alloy wheels, blacked-out B-pillars and flush door handles. Instead of ORVMs, Vision-S 02 benefits from camera lenses.
    The rear end of the Sony 7 Seater Electric SUV gets a raked windscreen thanks to a sloping roofline and a long stripe of LED taillamp running across the width of tailgate. The design language used by Sony on Vision-S 02 resonates with that from Porsche. Interiors of the new Sony electric SUV boasts minimalism but is loaded with all modern technologies available. The most unique highlight is a fully digital dashboard with a three-screen layout.
    Sony 7 Seater Electric SUV
    Features & Specs
    The panoramic infotainment interface could also be used for video playback or for playing video games via a remote connection to a Sony Playstation gaming console. Other features include a three-dimensional audio system, a panoramic glass roof and most importantly Level 2+ driver assistance systems.
    Powering Vision-S 02 are two electric motors, one on each axle, with a combined output of 536 bhp – sending power to all four wheels. However, the brand has yet to reveal specs regarding its battery configuration and range. Sony has revealed that the upcoming electric crossover will be marketed and retailed under a new operating company called Sony Mobility Inc. which will debut around March-May this year. More

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    2022 Tata Nexon Electric Spied – Gets Larger Battery, Longer Range

    2022 Tata Nexon ElectricTata Motors will launch updated Nexon Electric with a larger battery pack this year – It would offer a higher range of around 400km on a single charge
    Range anxiety in electric vehicles (EVs) is a major concern among automobile buyers, especially in India where charging infrastructure is yet to gain widespread prominence. In addition, initial cost of an EV is a lot higher than conventional IC engine-powered vehicles which makes them unfavourable by most buyers in major parts of the country.
    However, EVs do have the benefit of low running costs in comparison to their petrol and diesel counterparts. For this, EVs have to provide a certain range in order to make it a profitable proposition for buyers. Nexon EV is one of the most sought-after EVs in the passenger car segment in India.
    2022 Tata Nexon Electric Spied
    Despite so many positives, the electric SUV has one major drawback in the form of its range. Nexon EV offers a range of 312km on a single charge which may seem decent on paper but its real-world range stands at around 180-200 kms. This might be very less for consumers who often cover long-distance journeys in a car or for those who commute long distances on a daily basis.
    To address this issue, Tata Motors will be updating Nexon Electric with a larger battery pack that will offer a greater range on a full charge. A test mule of the same has now been spotted somewhere in Pune. Images are credit to TechTalk Teardown. Hat tip to automotive enthusiast Snehal Praveen for sharing the update.
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    2022 Tata Nexon EV- Exterior Details
    Prototype caught in the camera was seen wearing a full-body camouflage although there wasn’t any noticeable clue of any change from images. It gets the same front fascia with a sealed Tata’s Humanity line faux grille which are flanked by dual-beam LED headlamps on each side with integrated LED DRLs.
    It also rolls on new 16 inch dual-tone diamond-cut alloy wheels. Side profile also remains intact will sloping Coupe-like roofline and roof rails. Rear end of the electric SUV has not been shown in the latest spy shots but it is unlikely the company will provide any noticeable change on this side.
    Features & Specs on offer
    In terms of features, it will be offered with gizmos such as a 7-inch touchscreen infotainment system enabled with Android Auto and Apple CarPlay, a semi-digital instrument cluster with a 7-inch TFT display, auto LED headlights, auto climate control and connected car technology.
    2022 Tata Nexon Electric Spied In Pune
    Interiors are also expected to remain identical. Tata will, however, make some calibration changes to the powertrain and software with the addition of a new battery pack. Safety kit will include standard features such as dual front airbags, ABS with EBD, ISOFIX child seat anchors and cornering stability control.
    Currently, Nexon Electric is powered by the brand’s Ziptron EV powertrain technology which draws energy from a 30.2kWh lithium-ion battery. This powertrain returns an output of 127 bhp and 245 Nm of torque. The battery gets an 8-year standard warranty. In its current avatar, Nexon EV is priced between Rs 14.24 lakh and Rs 16.85 lakh (ex-showroom). More

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    MG Marvel Electric SUV Scores 4 Star Safety Rating At Euro NCAP

    MG Marvel 2021 Euro NCAP Crash Test
    If launched in India, MG Marvel X could be priced upwards of Rs 30 lakh (ex-showroom)
    2021 Marvel R electric SUV from MG Motor has achieved an impressive 4-star safety rating when it was recently crash tested at Euro NCAP. Marvel R is an international derivative of the electric SUV sold under the Roewe brand in China. For reference, MG Motor is owned by Chinese automaker SAIC.
    The battery-powered SUV is expected to hit Indian shores in the coming few months and is likely to be retailed as ‘Marvel X’. It was even showcased as a pre-production prototype of MG’s Vision E Concept at the last edition of Auto Expo in India.
    MG Marvel R- Euro NCAP tests
    The SUV went on sale in China earlier this year as Roewe Marvel R and will be positioned as a premium electric SUV above ZS EV when it is launched in India. The SUV is considered to be a lot more advanced than ZS EV and packs a long list of safety features which helped it obtain an impressive safety rating. Weighing 1840kg, the SUV managed Adult Occupant and Child Occupant Protection of 80% and 75% respectively.
    Getting into details of the crash test, the passenger compartment of Marvel R remained stable in the frontal offset test. It offered good protection to knees and femurs of both the driver and passenger. However, protection of the driver’s chest was rated as marginal based on readings of chest compression. In addition, structure of the dashboard also posed a risk of injury to occupants of different sizes.
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    List of Safety Features in Marvel R
    When it came to the full-width rigid barrier test, Marvel R offered an adequate or good amount of protection to all the critical body parts of the passengers, except for the pelvis of the rear passenger. The electric SUV also scored well in the side barrier test in which protection of all critical body regions was good. Marvel R scored its highest points in this test.
    Coming to the long list of safety features, Marvel R is equipped with an advanced eCall system that alerts the emergency services in case the vehicle meets a collision. It also features an active braking system which helps in reducing the secondary impacts in case of a mishap. Other notable safety features on offer include an IP67 battery with an anti-intrusion protection level and six high-voltage circuit safety management strategies.
    Powertrain Specs
    Marvel R is powered by three electric motors- one on the front axle, two on the rear. The motors derive energy from a 70 kWh battery pack which results in a combined output of 288 bhp and 665 Nm of torque. The powertrain offers a range of a little more than 400 km on a single charge according to the WLTP cycle.
    As far as performance is concerned, Marvel R can sprint from 0-100 kmph in just 4.8 seconds. Top speed of the electric SUV has been electronically capped at 180 kmph. When connected to a fast charger, the battery can rejuvenate from 0-80 percent in just 40 minutes. More

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    2022 Tata Nexon Electric With 400 Kms Drive Range – Larger Battery

    Image – HemankIt’s imperative for Tata Motors to upgrade its EVs, as several new and possibly better-equipped products are expected in 2022-23 and beyond
    Tata Motors EV portfolio currently has Nexon EV and Tigor EV. Early adopters have significant preference for Nexon EV, as it offers a desirable balance between pricing and range. It explains why Nexon EV is currently the top selling electric car in the country.
    2022 Tata Nexon Electric With 400 Kms Range
    In its current form, Nexon EV is powered by a 30.2kWh lithium-ion battery pack. Certified range is 312 km on a full charge. However, in real world conditions, users have reported getting around 180-200 km. While this may be sufficient for everyday city commutes, it does not suffice for longer journeys.
    For inter-city and inter-state travel, Nexon EV has to be upgraded with longer range. In its current form, Nexon EV will have to make frequent stops at charging stations. As a solution to such issues and to make Nexon EV comparable to standard fossil-fuel based cars, Tata Motors is working on a longer-range version of Nexon EV. This is expected to be launched around mid 2022.
    Long range edition of Nexon EV will be equipped with a larger 40kWh capacity battery pack. With the new battery pack, weight of the car is expected to increase by around 100 kg. Range will increase to more than 400 kms on full charge. True range is expected to be around 300-320 kms. This is close to range available with premium electric cars such as MG ZS EV and Hyundai Kona EV.
    Tata Nexon EV
    Other updates like selectable regenerative braking and Electronic Stability Program (ESP) are also on the cards for Nexon EV. As of now, the regenerative braking system on Nexon EV is a mild version. It does not allow users to make adjustments. The new regen system will have selectable options that will allow users to control the intensity of regenerative braking. When the max possible regen setting is selected, it will help boost range in a significant manner.
    Nexon long range EV could get some visual updates such as new colour options and a new set of alloy wheels. There can be some changes on the inside as well. It is to note that current Nexon EV model will continue to be sold alongside the long-range variant.
    Tata Nexon EV Long Range price
    With the larger battery pack and other updates, long-range Nexon EV is expected to cost Rs 3-4 lakh more than the current model. Even with increased pricing, Nexon EV will still be cheaper than other electric cars in its class. The current model is available at a starting price of Rs 14.24 lakh (ex-sh). Top-spec Nexon EV Dark XZ+ LUX variant is priced at Rs 16.85 lakh.
    Tata Motors has chalked out aggressive plans for EV segment. Its EV portfolio is expected to grow to 10 EVs by 2026. To make it possible, the company recently launched a new EV arm called Tata Passenger Electric Mobility Limited (TPEML). This new entity will cater to all aspects of EVs including their design, development, manufacturing, sales, marketing and after sales services.
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    Tata Motors Launches EV Subsidiary – Tata Passenger Electric Mobility Ltd. (TPEML)

    Tata Tigor Electric SedanWith the new EV subsidiary, Tata Motors will be looking to bolster its presence in EV space
    One of the early entrants in EV space, Tata Motors currently leads with market share of around 70%. A significant percentage of the company’s EV sales comprise Tata Nexon EV. Tata Motors also has Tigor EV, which was recently updated with visual enhancements and more capable powertrain. The company’s cumulative EV sales had crossed the 10k milestone earlier this year in September.
    As competitive in EV space is expected to increase significantly in coming years, Tata Motors feels it will be better to step-up focus in this segment. Towards that end, Tata Motors has formed a new wholly-owned subsidiary named Tata Passenger Electric Mobility Limited (TPEML). The new entity will commence operations with initial capital of Rs 700 crore. Necessary approval for the new arm has been received from Ministry of Corporate Affairs.
    TPEML focus areas
    TPEML will cater to all aspects of R&D, design, development, manufacturing, assembly, fabrication, sales, marketing, after sales services and servicing of electric vehicles. This will be applicable for hybrid electric vehicles as well. The company will look into design and development of motors, parts, components, accessories and other related equipment.
    It can also consider development of other types of vehicles that are powered by electricity or solar energy. This indicates that TPEML has a much larger agenda in mind and is not limited to manufacturing of passenger EVs.
    Tata Nexon Electric
    Threat from rivals
    EV ecosystem in the country is developing at a fast pace. Quite a few electric cars are now available here such as Jaguar I-Pace, Porsche Taycan, Audi e-Tron GT and Mercedes-Benz EQC electric SUV. These are not a threat to Tata Motors current EV portfolio, but things can change if and when the company decides to target the premium EV space.
    Talking about Tata’s bestselling Nexon EV, it is expected to face some stiff competition soon. Carmakers like MG Motor, Kia, Hyundai and Mahindra are working on their respective entry-level electric cars. For example, Hyundai has plans to introduce six new EVs in India. At least one of these will rival Tata Nexon EV.
    MG Motor is also said to be working on a mass-market EV that will rival Nexon EV. MG’s second EV for India is expected to be priced in the range of Rs 10-15 lakh. MG currently has the ZS EV in India, which is the second bestselling EV in the country.
    TPEML will be actively evaluating all these emerging threats. It will collaborate with its parent company to add more EVs to the existing portfolio. A lot of work also needs to be done in terms of upgrading existing powertrain and boosting range. Other things such as compliance with new safety rules and development of Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS) and autonomous driving tech could also be on the agenda. More

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    BMW iX Electric SUV India Launch Price Rs 1.16 Cr – Range 425 Kms

    New BMW iX Electric SUV India LaunchThe all-electric BMW iX has been launched in India as a Completely Built Up (CBU) – Rivals include EVs from Mercedes, Audi, Jaguar
    BMW India today announced the launch of its first electric car – The iX SUV. The new iX is offered in a single variant of iX xDrive 40 – priced at Rs 1,15,90,000, ex-sh. It comes with a dual electric motor set up with one motor positioned on each axle with all-wheel drive function.
    BMW iX – Design
    BMW has given the new iX electric SUV a more futuristic stance so as to differentiate it from its ICE powered models. It sports a large kidney shaped front grille, sleek headlamps with a quarter light band, similar looking tail lamps and a clamshell bonnet design. It gets frameless doors. The iX rides on 21 inch aerodynamically optimized wheels fitted with 255/50 profile tyres.
    New BMW iX Electric SUV India Launch
    Interior arrangement will be much the same as is seen on the BMW X7. It will get a hexagonal shaped steering wheel, a curved structure housing a 12.3 inch instrument cluster and 14.9 inch infotainment display, tilted towards the driver.
    Seating is fitted with microfiber fabric. BMW iDrive rotary controller is set on the forward section of the high mounted arm rest while other controls are positioned on upper part of the door. Features on offer include BMW Curved Display, BMW ConnectedDrive, BMW Virtual Assistant, BMW Natural Interaction, wireless charging, wireless Android Auto / Apple Carplay, Parking Assistant Plus, Harman Kardon Surround Sound System with 18 speakers, Reversing Assistant, etc.
    New BMW iX Electric SUV India Launch
    BMW iX Electric SUV Specs
    BMW iX xDrive 40 comes with a 76.6kWh battery pack. It delivers a max power output of 326 hp and 620 Nm of torque. On a full charge, driving range is up to 425 kms. Acceleration from 0 to 100 km/h will be possible in 6.1 seconds.
    BMW iX Electric – Specs for India
    BMW also has a more powerful iX xDrive 50 available in the international market. But that has not been launched in India today. It has a larger 105.2 kWh battery, that produces 523 hp power and 765 Nm torque. It delivers a drive range of up to 611 kms on WLTP cycle. Acceleration from 0 to 100 km/h is achieved in 4.6 seconds.
    Charging time for the iX Drive 40 is as follows;– 150 kW DC Charger – 80% in 31 min / 95 kms added range in 10 min– 50 kW DC Charger – 80% in 73 min / 100 kms added range in 21 min– 11 kW AC Charger – 100% in about 7 hrs / 100 kms added range in 2.5 hrs
    New BMW iX Electric SUV India Launch
    Colour options on offer are – Mineral White, Phytonic Blue, Black Sapphire and Sophisto Grey. BMW Individual Aventurine Red metallic paint finish is offered as option. Exclusive olive-leaf tanned natural leather upholstery ‘Interior Design Suite’ comes in Castanea colour scheme.
    BMW iX comes with standard two-year warranty for unlimited kilometres. The batteries are covered by a warranty valid for eight years or up to 160,000 kilometres. Repair Inclusive can extend warranty benefits from third year of operation to maximum fifth year without any mileage limitation. BMW iX will rival the likes of Mercedes-Benz EQC, Audi e-tron and Jaguar I-PACE, etc in the luxury EV segment of India. More

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    Maruti Ignis Electric Conversion Kit Launched By Northway – 240 Kms Range

    Maruti Ignis Electric Conversion KitPune based Northway has launched Maruti Ignis Electric conversion kit – Total cost will be cheaper than top selling Tata Nexon EV
    A leading name in EV R&D and EV conversion kits, Pune-based Northway has launched EV conversion kit for Maruti Ignis. The model used for this project is 2022 Ignis Alpha MT variant. Total cost of the kit and the car comes to Rs 12.5 lakh for standard range (120 kms) kit and Rs 14.5 lakh for long range (240 kms) kit.
    The conversion kit will be available for Ignis MT 2021 and later models. Northway also offers electric conversion kits for other vehicles such as Swift Dzire and Tata Ace.
    Maruti Ignis electric with manual transmission
    When talking about electric cars, it’s difficult to imagine that it will have anything but automatic transmission. However, folks at Northway have dared to stray away from established industry standards. Their pre-convert Maruti Ignis Electric has been equipped with manual transmission, which offers multiple benefits.
    In real-world conditions, Ignis EV with manual transmission can supply extra torque whenever needed. This can come handy in situations like heavy traffic when one needs to accelerate fast from stop position. Take a look at the first drive experience shared by Northway in the video below.
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    It can also be useful while overtaking another vehicle, especially when the car is climbing a slope. Ignis EV with manual transmission will also appeal to folks who just love the experience of shifting gears.
    Another benefit is that the manual transmission can supply braking power. For this, users just need to shift to lower gears such as second gear. This in turn will recharge the battery via the regenerative braking system installed in the car. In traffic conditions and during downhill journeys in mountainous regions, using the lower gears as braking aid can provide tangible improvements in range.
    Maruti Ignis Electric also meets the needs of folks who prefer automatic transmission. Although the car has manual transmission, there is no compulsion that users will have to change gears every time they want to accelerate. For an automatic experience, users just need to use the car in top gears like third and fourth gear. In this way, the car will function similar to an automatic electric car.
    While testing Maruti Ignis Electric kit, Tesla was spotted
    Maruti Ignis Electric – range and specs
    Pre-convert Maruti Suzuki Ignis EV is available with two battery configurations. With Drive CT, max range is 120 km. This can work for folks who plan to use the car only for city-specific commutes.
    Users looking for longer range can choose Inter CT, which offers 240 km. Top speed of the car is rated at 140 kmph. It generates 170 Nm of max torque. The car can be charged at home or any of the available charging stations. Charging time is in the range of 3-7 hours.
    Key things to note here is that OEM warranty will be void once the car is converted to electric. For the conversion kit, the warranty is 60,000 km or 2 years, whichever is earlier. The converted car is street-legal, as all the necessary approvals and documents will be provided by RTO. However, users won’t be eligible for any subsidies, as there are currently no such rules for EV retro fit kits. More