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    Tata Nexon Electric Driven Till 0% Battery In Real World Conditions – Range Details

    Image – Auto Town
    Tata Nexon EV is available in three variants namely- XM, XZ+, and XZ+ Lux at a price range of Rs 13.99 lakh and Rs 16.40 lakh (ex-showroom)

    With an exorbitant rise in fuel prices in recent times, people in India have been contemplating on shifting to electric vehicles (EVs), however, inhibitions remain. The biggest of them being range anxiety as in how much can an EV travel on a single charge.
    This anxiety is multiplied when one takes into account that EV technology and infrastructure in the country are still limited and at a very nascent stage. Therefore, range assurance becomes a very key marketing strategy for manufacturers, especially in the passenger vehicle segment since options are very limited.
    The most affordable EV in the country is Tata Nexon EV, available at a starting price of Rs 13.99 lakh (ex-showroom). Powered by the company’s Ziptron technology the company claims a single-charge range of 312 km although in a real-world scenario it is almost impossible to achieve this figure. However, with recent updates made to its software, customers admit that the electric crossover is now traveling greater distances on a single charge.
    Real-World Range Test
    This fact has been established by a video uploaded on YouTube by Auto Town, the vlogger conducts a test where he is seen riding through heavy traffic of Bangalore. This proves to be ideal conditions for daily commuting to evaluate a real-world range.
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    At the start of the drive, the instrument console on Nexon EV showed a battery percentage of just over 50 percent remaining. The vlogger intentionally keeps the air conditioner running to emulate as close to real driving conditions.
    On battery diminishing to 25 percent, it is noticed that the vlogger could not drive the car in Sport Mode although power delivery remains consistent. There is a significant drop in power delivery felt when the battery levels drop to 10 percent and also the AC stops cooling even though the blower is still functional.
    At 6 percent charge, the car stops, urging the driver to restart the car by turning off the AC controls. The remaining distance is covered at a snail’s pace with constant emergency beep in the background to immediately recharge the battery.
    At the end of the journey, with zero percent battery levels, the trip meter reads 124 km. This roughly means that for each percentage charge of battery, the car could travel up to 2.5 km. The range was also helped by the presence of regenerative braking which replenished the battery on every occasion possible. This means on a full charge, the battery on Nexon EV could offer a real-world range of around 240-250 km on a single charge.
    Powertrain Specs
    This is a significant improvement to earlier range evaluation on Nexon EV which provided a single-charge range of below 200km. Powered by Tata’s Ziptron EV technology, Nexon EV features a 30.2kWh lithium-ion battery pack which is paired to an electric motor capable of generating 127 bhp and 245 Nm of peak torque. The battery pack gets an 8-year standard warranty and an IP67 waterproof pack. More

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    Piaggio Ape Electric Auto Rickshaw, Cargo 3 Wheeler Launch Price Rs 2.83 L

    Piaggio Ape Electric Rickshaw
    Piaggio FX range (fixed battery) electric vehicles in both the cargo and passenger segments launched

    Piaggio Vehicles Pvt Ltd (PVPL) launched its FX range (fixed battery) of electric vehicles in both the cargo and passenger segments today. The manufacturer says Ape’ E-Xtra FX with 9.5 Kw power output is the most powerful electric cargo in the segment.
    Ape E-City FX passenger segment vehicle is designed for comfy rides for a higher number of trips and best in class earnings. Both vehicles feature blue vision headlamps, automatic transmission, hill hold assist, regenerative braking, dual tone seats, striking body colours and graphics, multi- information instrument cluster, boost mode, etc.
    Fame II subsidy, Price & Booking
    Ape Electrik FX range is eligible for FAME II subsidy. Then there are other benefits for the registration process. Ape’ E-Xtra FX (cargo 3 wheeler) comes is now available introductory ex-sh, price of Rs 3,12,137, and Ape E-City FX (passenger electric rickshaw) at ex-sh price of Rs 2,83,878 post fame II subsidy benefit.
    Piaggio Ape’ Electrik FX range is designed to offer customers with unique solutions for specific applications. Zero emission, low NVH, superior drive and ride comfort are talking points that drive home the message.
    Piaggio Ape Electric Cargo 3 Wheeler
    Restructuring last mile transport options is a key focus area in Indian cities and towns amidst rising levels of vehicular pollution. The introduction today gives Piaggio a rooted presence in Diesel, CNG, LPG, Petrol and Electric ranges.
    Piaggio Ape’ Electrik FX range warranty
    Piaggio Ape’ Electrik FX range of electric vehicles are fixed battery electric 3 wheelers, convenient for home and office charging. Power comes from advanced Lithium-Ion Smart batteries. The products are designed to optimise last-mile mobility. It’s available with full metal body architecture and 6 ft cargo deck length. Custom applications include usage as delivery van, garbage collector, etc.
    Running cost is at less than 50 paise, and hence promises low cost of operations. Unique service solutions will boost customer confidence. The company offers 3 year/1 lakh kilometer ‘Super warranty’, and 3 Year Free Maintenance package as an introductory offer. Piaggio I-Connect telematics solution offers real time vehicle data tracking.
    Piaggio Ape Electric 3 Wheeler launch
    Diego Graffi, Chairman & MD Piaggio Vehicles Pvt. Ltd. said, “Ape, a brand with a trust of more than 30 lac happy customers is paving the way for the Indian electric revolution with the FX range of electric vehicles. The Piaggio Group has a rich heritage of developing electric technology over the last four decades which we have leveraged to develop these class leading products for India.
    Post the launch of Ape’ E-City with Swappable technology in 2019, we are now introducing the Fixed Battery technology solutions to serve the varied needs of customers. This new FX range is a step in realizing Piaggio’s vision which aligns with the government’s initiatives for mass adaption of EVs in India.” More

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    Hyundai IONIQ 5 Electric Car Debuts With 470 Kms Range

    Hyundai IONIQ 5 Electric Car
    Hyundai Ioniq 5 goes on sale later this year in developed countries

    Hyundai has revealed its ambitious Ioniq 5 electric vehicle which is the first offering under the Korean automaker’s electric sub-brand. The mid-sized electric crossover is expected to spearhead the Ioniq brand of EVs in future. The company had earlier revealed its intention of launching 23 new electric cars between now and 2023.
    Exterior Styling
    Available in both rear-wheel and all-wheel-drive configurations, Ioniq 5 sports a futuristic design with a contrasting blend of retro-inspired styling which derives most of its elements from the Hyundai 45 concept. This includes its overall silhouette and angular creases running across its profile.
    It marks a departure from the traditional design of Hyundai cars and features pixelated headlights and taillights, unique daytime running lights and a clamshell bonnet which is a first for the Korean brand. Ioniq 5 rides on aero-optimized 20-inch alloy wheels that further resonate with the Parametric Pixel design theme. Its unique proportions and short overhangs are due to an extended wheelbase which also translates to ample space inside the cabin.
    Speaking of proportions, Ioniq 5 measures 4635mm in length, 1890mm and 1605mm tall in addition to a very generous wheelbase of 3000mm. It is built on an Electric-Global Modular Platform (E-GMP) that will also underpin future EVs from both Hyundai and Kia.
    Hyundai IONIQ 5 Electric Car
    The upcoming Ioniq 6 saloon and Ioniq 7 SUV will be underpinned by the same architecture. As usual with most electric cars, it features a skateboard layout giving a flat interior floor.
    Interior & Features on offer
    Hyundai carries forward the minimalist approach of its exterior design to its interior and yet is in line with all modern premium cars around. The dashboard is dominated by a twin-screen setup which includes a large 12-inch touchscreen infotainment unit and an equally large digital instrument cluster. Majority of the components inside the cabin have been made from wool, recycled plastics, eco-processed leather, and other sustainable sources.
    Another interesting feature in its equipment is a head-up display compatible with augmented reality. This functionality projects information on navigation on the windscreen.
    Hyundai IONIQ 5 Electric Car
    Furthermore, the infotainment features the latest version of Hyundai’s BlueLink connected car tech which offers new functionalities such as Routing and Last Mile Navigation. It also displays information on the nearest charging station including availability and estimated charging time.
    Powertrain Setup & Performance
    Coming to its powertrain, it features a single or twin (in AWD variant) electric motor setup which draws its power from either of the batteries- a 58 kWh or a 72.6 kWh. When paired with the former, it can produce an output of 167 bhp and can clock a 0-100 kmph sprint in 8.5 seconds.
    Hyundai IONIQ 5 Electric Car
    On the other hand, when paired to the larger battery pack it returns a massive output of 302 bhp and 605 Nm of peak torque. This version of the SUV could accelerate 0-100 kmph in just 5.2 seconds and can clock a top speed of 185 kmph.
    The maximum single-charge range offered in Ioniq is claimed to be around 470-480 km according to WLTP cycle. Its charging time is one of the quickest in modern contemporary EVs. Using a 220kW DC fast charger, it takes only 18 minutes to replenish the battery from 10% to 18 percent. Hyundai claims that to obtain a range of 100km users need to charge for only 5 minutes. More

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    Mahindra Electric Treo ZOR EVs To Be Used By Amazon In 7 Cities

    Mahindra Treo ZOR EVs
    Amazon India electric mobility targets focus on EVs designed and manufactured by OEMs in India

    Amazon India has partnered with Mahindra Electric to strengthen its commitment towards electric mobility. As a part of this, 100 units of the new Mahindra Zor TREO Electric three wheelers have been delivered to Amazon India. These are now operational in 7 Indian cities for delivery purposes.
    In 2020, Amazon India embarked on an undertaking wherein its delivery vehicle fleet would include 10,000 electric vehicles (EVs) by 2025 in India alone. All these vehicles to be introduced will be designed and manufactured by OEMs in India.
    Climate Pledge commitment
    The proposed EV commitment is in addition to Amazon’s global commitment of 1,00,000 strong EV delivery fleet by 2030 announced in the Climate Pledge signed in September 2019. It outlines a mobility goals wherein Amazon strives to be net zero carbon by 2040 across its businesses. This is a decade ahead of the Paris Agreement’s goal of 2050.
    The Climate Pledge shapes faster decarbonization, and the onus lies on all signees in stimulating investment in development of low-carbon products and services. To meet the target, 10,000 Amazon custom electric delivery vehicles will be in service globally as early as 2022.
    Mahindra Treo ZOR EVs
    Mahindra Electric delivery vehicle fleet
    A partnership with Mahindra Electric empowers e-mobility industry progress here designed to meet environmental sustainability goals. Mahindra Treo Zor electric vehicles are already in use in seven cities. They include Bengaluru, New Delhi, Hyderabad, Ahmedabad, Bhopal, Indore and Lucknow.
    Development in the e-mobility industry in recent years revolves around advanced tech, and superior motor and battery components. Another area that generates intrigue and prompts public discussion is the need for adequate charging infrastructure. FAME 2 policy guides EV adoption policies and goals.
    Mahindra Treo Zor was launched in October 2020. It features an advanced Lithium-ion Battery and ease of charging. This in turn meets charging requirements of delivery partners. Designed and developed in India, the company says it offers best-in-industry performance.
    Other features include drive by wire tech to encourage fatigue free driving experience, reduced load and unload times, and a long wheelbase that fosters vehicle safety and stability. Principles of Clean mobility depend on clean energy to address climate change.
    Mahesh Babu, MD & CEO, Mahindra Electric Mobility Ltd said, “We are proud to partner with Amazon in deploying Mahindra Treo Zor EV in their delivery partners’ fleet. Treo Zor offers a unique customer value proposition with best-in-industry power of 8 kW, and highest-in-class payload of 550 kg.” More

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    Tesla India Electric Car Plant To Be Setup In Karnataka – Report

    File Photo
    Tesla India has been registered as Tesla India Motors and Energy Private Ltd – as per Ministry of Corporate Affairs

    Earlier this year, Karnataka CM, B S Yediyurappa had tweeted that Tesla will commence operations with an R&D unit in Bengaluru. He had announced this on twitter. But soon after, he had deleted the tweet. A State Govt document, accessed by Reuters points to the fact that Karnataka will also be the home to Tesla’s car manufacturing plant.
    This update comes on the back of statements from Gujarat and Maharashtra – both stating that they have invited Tesla to setup their Indian manufacturing unit in their respective state. Tesla is yet to confirm the report.
    Tesla in India
    Entry of the US based electric vehicle maker Tesla, into the Indian automobile sector, is particularly noteworthy as both the Central and State Governments are vying for higher adoption of green vehicle technology to conserve energy and preserve the environment.
    Elon Musk’s Tesla Inc. has set up a subsidiary in Bengaluru with plans to introduce their range of electric cars in India later this year. The R&D Center is at Lavelle Road in Bengaluru and marks the company’s entry into the country with a paid up capital of Rs.1 lakh and authorized capital of Rs.15 lakhs.
    Karnataka CM tweet which was deleted soon after it was posted
    With plans to launch a range of electric vehicles in India in 2021, Tesla has named Vaibhav Taneja, Venkatrangam Sreeram and David Jon Feinstein as its three directors. Plans are afoot to launch the new Tesla Model 3 in India for a start, with local assembly and manufacturing to commence later.
    First Tesla Car In India
    It is rumoured that Tesla Model 3 will be the first to launch in India as it is the most affordable Tesla product. The all electric sedan will be brought in as a CBU initially. It will attract a 100 percent import duty unless the Government of India offers any concessions to Tesla so as to give electric vehicle entry a push. Standard range of 423 kms on a single charge.
    South Of India Becoming EV Hub
    South of India and more specifically Bengaluru is a hub of automotive engineering with centres of Daimler, Bosch, Continental, Fiat Chrysler. Electric vehicle segment is also seeing increased participation with mobility startups like Ola, Uber, Bounce and Vogo planning to introduce more electric vehicles into their fleets.
    Ola is also keen on manufacturing electric vehicles with a new EV plant in Tamil Nadu. Ola will setup the world’s largest electric scooter manufacturing plant in Tamil Nadu – for the same they have signed an MoU of Rs 2,400 crores.
    Ather Energy has also gone ahead with their plans. Production is now shifted to Hosur, Tamil Nadu from where the company aims to produce around 1 lakh units of electric two wheelers per annum.
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    Tata Nexon Electric Owner Files Complaint In Transport Dept Over Low Range

    Image for reference. Credit – Hemank.
    Tata Motors has been issued with a show cause notice by the Delhi Transport Department following a complaint filed by a Delhi resident

    The complaint states that the Tata Nexon Electric failed to perform as per standard. The vehicle owner, a resident of Najafgarh, purchased the Tata Nexon EV XZ+ variant and noted that while the company claimed a range of 312 km per charge, his vehicle was not offering more than 200 kms. This was despite the fact that he complied with every advice issued by the dealer.
    The Nexon EV was purchased from an authorized company dealership in Safarjung Enclave. It was registered on 3rd Dec 2020 and it was immediately noted to fail in meeting the required range as indicated. Though the owner stringently followed all directions, there was no improvement in the range and nowhere close to 312 kms per charge.
    Complaint Filed, Show Cause Notice Issued
    A complaint was filed by the owner of the Tata Nexon EV with Delhi Transport Department and a notice has been sent to the automaker. Tata Motors has been instructed to depute a representative to attend the office of the said department on 5th Feb 2021 at 12 noon.
    The notice also adds that the Delhi Government could consider removing the subsidy offered under the Delhi Electric Vehicle Policy 2020, on the Tata Nexon EV, if it is proved that this contention is proved to be true.
    File Photo. Credit – AutoTown
    Under this Policy, a purchase incentive of Rs.10,000 per kWh battery capacity is offered on the purchase of an electric 4 wheeler with a cap of Rs.1.50 lakhs. Also, the owners of the first 1000 electric cars registered in Delhi, following the issuance of the policy, would be eligible for the incentive. The Nexon EV is an approved vehicle under these conditions of the EV policy.
    Tata Motors, on their part, have taken cognizance of the show cause notice and are taking measures to address the concerns of the owner. The range of 312 kms per charge is based on certification received from Automotive Research Association of India (ARAI).
    ARAI is an apex body to test and certify vehicles under various standard test conditions prior to the vehicles going on sale. Tests conducted by ARAI are under special and ideal conditions and hence range are always on the higher side as compared to real world conditions.
    As is also seen in the case of conventional vehicles, electric vehicle range is also derived depending on certain factors. These include use of air conditioning, individual style of driving and real world conditions present at the time the vehicle is being driven. The range is also achieved according to familiarity with the new technology and customers report a marked improvement by around 10 percent in a time frame of 4-6 weeks once they are familiar with the vehicle.
    Tata Nexon EV Sales
    Tata Nexon EV is the best-selling electric SUV in India and most affordable car in its segment currently commanding a market share of 63.2 percent. Launched on 28th Jan 2020, sales have touched the 3,000 unit mark in the past one year while its affordable price tag allows it compete efficiently with its rivals such as the MG ZS EV and Hyundai Kona Electric.
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