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    New Bajaj Pulsar N125 Launch This Week – What To Expect

    New Bajaj Pulsar N125As evident with the spy shots, Pulsar N125 has the signature muscular profile seen across the Pulsar range
    It was a busy year for Bajaj Auto, as the Pulsar range has undergone a thorough update. In addition, the company also launched the Pulsar NS400Z and the world’s first dual-fuel CNG bike. There’s more in store, as a new Pulsar bike is set to be unveiled on 16th October.
    Bajaj Pulsar N125 – What to expect?
    Upcoming Bajaj Pulsar N125 has been spotted on road tests multiple times in recent months. It is possible that this is the same bike that Bajaj will launch on 16th October. Bajaj already offers the Pulsar 125 and Pulsar NS125. With more options, Bajaj can expand its presence in the 125cc segment that has been registering strong growth. Upon launch, the Pulsar N125 will primarily rival the likes of Hero Xtreme 125R and TVS Raider 125.
    New Bajaj Pulsar N125
    Similar to other Pulsar N series bikes, the Pulsar N125 will have sharp styling. Some exciting colour options and sporty graphics will be available with the bike. Spy shots have revealed a new LED headlamp, sculpted fuel tank, sleek tank shrouds and polygonal rear-view mirrors. Side section has a decluttered look and feel with the bike getting an underbelly exhaust.
    Other highlights include a split seat design, robust grab rail, short tail section and rear tyre hugger. Riding stance is quite comfortable with wide, pulled-back handlebar and centrally mounted foot pegs. The pillion seat appears to be a bit narrow, but should be fine for urban commutes.
    New Bajaj Pulsar N125
    Tech package
    Tech kit onboard the Pulsar N125 will include an all-digital instrument console. It could be the same or something similar to the new units seen onboard the updated Pulsar bikes. Riders will be able to access a range of information such as real-time fuel economy, average fuel economy, gear position indicator and distance-to-empty readout. The digital console is likely to get support for Bluetooth connectivity.
    New Bajaj Pulsar N125
    Various possibilities exist such as accessing mobile notifications on the digital console. With Bajaj Ride Connect app, users will be able to take calls, SMS and see missed call notifications. It remains to be seen if turn-by-turn navigation is part of the package with Pulsar N125. With the Bajaj Connect app, users can also access riding tips and owner’s manual.
    Bajaj Pulsar N125 performance, specs
    Powering the bike will be the 125cc, single cylinder, air cooled engine that can be seen with other 125cc bikes from Bajaj. Onboard the Pulsar 125, the engine delivers 11.8 PS and 10.8 Nm of torque. It is mated to a 5-speed constant mesh gearbox.
    Suspension setup of Pulsar N125 will comprise standard telescopic forks at front and a monoshock unit at the rear. Both ends have 17-inch wheels, with front disc and rear drum combo for the base variant. Top-spec variant of the Bajaj Pulsar N125 is expected to get disc brakes at both ends with single-channel ABS.
    Upcoming Bajaj Pulsar N125 could be offered at a starting price of around Rs 95,000. In comparison, the Pulsar 125 is available at a starting price of Rs 92,883. Pulsar NS125 is costlier, available at Rs 1,01,050. More

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    Hero Xpulse 200 Pro ADV Review – Almost There!

    Hero Xpulse 200 Pro ReviewThe front suspension on Hero Xpulse 200 Pro is adjustable for compression and rebound, while rear gets preload and rebound adjustment
    ADVs are currently a rage in India and many aspiring buyers look to this segment as an upgrade to their current premium commuter or a cruiser. Catering to this segment is world’s largest motorcycle manufacturer, Hero MotoCorp, with the Hero Xpulse 200. This is the most affordable off-road motorcycle in India and is a great weapon in the company’s arsenal.
    The word ADV has become a broader sub-segment and is being used lightly by OEMs too. Like SUV in the car world. However, Hero Xpulse is a true-blue ADV and an extremely potent off-roader as well. Hero MotoCorp provided Rushlane with an Xpulse 200 Pro set-up for off-roading for a real-world review. After testing the motorcycle in varied terrains, environments and road conditions, here is what we think about this motorcycle.
    Hero Xpulse 200 Pro Review
    Hero Xpulse 200 Pro Review
    Hero has priced this motorcycle very aggressively. For around Rs 1.55 lakh (Ex-sh), one can get a true blue off-roader with fully adjustable front and rear long travel suspension, 270 mm ground clearance and a lot of modern features. That is less than a certain smartphone with decent storage option ticked, these days.
    Where design is concerned, Xpulse is not much of a looker and it was not meant to be either. It bears a purposeful look and it gravitates more towards the function, than form. It has round LED headlights with H-shaped LED DRL signature, a decently sized windscreen along with a front beak. The White, Red and Black colourway is unique to the Pro variant and is appealing to look at.
    Hero Xpulse 200 Pro Rear
    There are knuckle guards on Xpulse 200 Pro, which are sturdy enough. They’re very inexpensive as well, if one needs to replace them after a fall, or something like that. I wish Hero hadn’t painted the ORVM in White shade as it looks gaudy. Personally, I think this motorcycle looks a lot prettier and like a neo-retro machine if it didn’t have a front beak. Maybe that’s just me.
    The first remark we had for this motorcycle was that it is a “tall” motorcycle. Like really tall. Because of that reason, it stands out in the crowd. Even though the Xpulse 200 Pro variant has been around for a long time and Xpulse 200 Rally Kit existed before that, this motorcycle still grabs a lot of eyeballs. It has a commanding road presence and sticks out around regular motorcycles. Especially when a tall rider is sitting on it upright, wearing an XL sized helmet.
    Hero Xpulse 200 Pro Size Comparison
    Standing next to regular commuter motorcycles, Xpulse 200 Pro makes them look like toys and the effect is quite hilarious. As seen in the image above, Xpulse 200 Pro looks humongous when parked beside regular motorcycles. Without Maxxis tyres, seat height is around 885mm and ground clearance is 270 mm. With the Maxxis knobby tyres, seat height goes 890mm+ and ground clearance is around 10 mm higher.
    Ergonomics and comfort
    I am a 182 cm tall individual and I did not face any issues swinging my leg around this tall motorcycle. Even with regular everyday shoes, I could easily flatfoot on both sides without any issues and the process was a lot more forgiving with taller riding shoes. The ergonomics of Xpulse 200 felt like they were tailor-made for a tall individual like myself. I had no fatigue on this motorcycle around my neck, back, shoulders and legs even after longer rides.
    Hero Xpulse 200 Pro Tall Stance
    Cushioning on the long seat can get slightly uncomfortable as you spend more time on it. Xpulse 200 has excellent ergonomics for standing and riding in off-road conditions. I could grip the motorcycle between my thighs for optimum control and the handlebar risers on Xpulse 200 Pro ensured easy reachability.
    I wished the seat was slightly wider and contoured for optimum support, but then it would intrude into the off-roading experience a narrow seat facilitates, especially when standing and riding. Because this review unit was set up for off-roading, it lacked rear foot pegs and centre stand for weight saving. So, it was not possible to test the pillion comfort of this motorcycle and how easy it would be for them to get on this motorcycle.
    Hero Xpulse 200 Pro Engine
    Powertrain and Components
    Hero Xpulse 200 Pro is powered by a 199.6 cc SOHC 4V oil-cooled single-cylinder engine. This engine is capable of around 19 bhp of peak power and 17.35 Nm of peak torque, mated to a 5-speed gearbox. The oil cooling radiator is positioned vertically and is a relatively smaller unit. But there doesn’t seem to be a need for a larger and more robust cooling system as heat is well controlled.
    Main highlight of Xpulse 200 Pro is that it is the most affordable motorcycle in India with fully adjustable suspension. It gets compression and rebound adjustability at the front, controlled by the two knobs positioned on its forks. Suspension travel is 250 mm at the front, which is up from 190 mm on standard Xpulse 200. Rear suspension is adjustable for preload and rebound offering 220 mm of travel as opposed to 170 mm of standard bike.
    Hero Xpulse 200 Pro Adjustable Front Suspension and Type-A USB Port
    Xpulse Pro got ABS modes last year and has three modes to control the single-channel ABS offered on front wheel. Hero has equipped Xpulse 200 Pro with disc brakes at both ends with single petal rotors. Both wheels are of wire-spoke type and with a 21-inch unit at the front and 18-inch unit at the rear, shod with tube-type Maxxis knobby tyres. The exhaust is up-swept in design to aid water wading.
    Where features are concerned, Hero offers a USB Type-A charging port with Xpulse. While it would be nicer if it was a Type-C port, Type-A is still relevant considering a few smartphones costing around Rs 1 lakh are still getting Type-A to Type-C cable in the box. There is a fully digital instrument cluster with gear position indicator, extensive trip computer and smartphone connectivity with turn-by-turn navigation.
    Hero Xpulse 200 Pro Oil Cooler
    Performance and Ride
    Xpulse 200’s performance metrics of around 19 bhp and 17.35 Nm are not exactly on the lower side, but larger 21-inch front and 18-inch rear wheels contribute to making this motorcycle feel slow. While city rides were fine, the lack in grunt is noticeable on highways as the engine runs out of breath quite early and lacks vigor to push the envelope and clock higher cruise speeds. Lack of a 6-speed gearbox is a contributor here.
    Highway cruising has been a chink in Xpulse’s armour since its inception and was significantly improved in 4V model. However, it is still not up to the mark and is the only hindrance for Xpulse 200 to be one’s only motorcycle in the garage. Acceleration is brisk and the engine is vibe free in the engine’s low-end and mid-range. At higher revs, vibes do kick in and make their presence known on pegs, handlebar and fuel tank.
    Hero Xpulse 200 Pro Switchgear
    Xpulse 200 Pro weighs 161 kg and is very manageable to ride even in chock-a-block Pune traffic. What impressed me the most in the city is that the clutch is rather light and my left wrist was very thankful for this fact. Something which can’t be said about its rival costing more than twice in price. Combination of low weight and light clutch made sure I enjoyed riding the motorcycle in city and highways, rather than feeling punished for doing so.
    Thanks to large 21-inch front and 18-inch rear tyres, Xpulse glides over everything. Because the suspension is adjustable for rebound and compression, rider can adjust the bike’s characteristics on the fly to suit road conditions they are on. These adjustable suspension are not gimmicks and genuinely help rider in setting up the motorcycle based on their needs. While front suspension is easily adjustable on the fly, rear suspension adjustment is very difficult to access.
    Hero Xpulse 200 Pro Tail Light
    Because of the immense suspension travel, there is some nose dive under hard braking, which can be reduced by stiffening the front suspension. Handling-wise, Xpulse is not a corner carver, especially with the skinny off-road tyres our review unit had. The 21-inch front wheel makes sure steering is rather lazy and is not apt for quick maneuvers. Handling is something Xpulse is not advertised for and we can forgive it for that reason.
    Maxxis Tyres Not For Road Use
    The Maxxis knobby tyres, however, are not recommended to use on road. They are road legal, as confirmed by Hero MotoCorp. Just not recommended for extensive road use and I found out the reason for this during our testing. These tyres don’t like tarmac a lot and craves soft ground to dig into. When riding on the road, abnormalities can unsettle these tyres and kick the tail out in some cases. Stock tyres are fatter and will be a lot more stable.
    Hero Xpulse 200 Pro Maxxis Knobby Tyres
    Another aspect of these Maxxis knobby tyres offered with Xpulse is that they’re loud. They might be louder than the actual engine. When riding on the road at higher speeds of around 60 km/h or above, these tyres make a lot of noise. They are so loud, I often felt like there was a big truck tailgating me on the highway, only to realize this noise was not from the truck’s tyres, but Xpulse’s.
    I took Xpulse to a few beaten paths in and around Pune and also to farms and wastelands outside the city. This is where Xpulse absolutely felt at home. It will do everything you can ask of it and does it in such grace. Xpulse’s low kerb weight is a godsend in off-road conditions and is very forgiving if there are rider errors. In the event of a fall, there is hardly anything to break on Xpulse, which is a good thing. Even if something does break, it is very economical to replace.
    Hero Xpulse 200 Pro Long Seat
    Maxxis knobby tyres rose to occasion in off-road situations and shines bright as it makes light work of everything I threw at it. I even tried a few jumps on the Xpulse and it handled everything like a champ. One can fine tune the suspension to suit their individual preferences. Seasoned off-road riders can even switch front ABS off, for complete nanny-free manual mode.
    Conclusion
    While Hero Xpulse 200 Pro is a brilliant motorcycle, concluding it for this real world review is slightly tricky. There are a few niggles with this motorcycle we encountered, which could have been improved. For starters, the smartphone app to connect to Xpulse did not validate the bike’s chassis number and engine number even after multiple correct entries. So, I couldn’t connect my phone with Xpulse to enable navigation, which was a big bummer.
    Hero Xpulse 200 Pro Instrument Cluster
    The switchgear on the right side containing the engine kill switch, was finicky to operate. There was some fogging in the instrument cluster after it rained. Also, the LED headlights were nothing to write home about, despite Hero promising reworked lighting elements. These niggles aside, the best thing about Hero Xpulse 200 Pro is that it didn’t have any deal breakers. Any shortcomings are forgivable if we bring pricing into the equation.
    Motorcycling enthusiasts who are looking at the Xpulse as their second or third motorcycle, Pro variant is an easy recommendation and we encourage them to buy one right away. There’s unmatched off-roading prowess for its price and fully adjustable suspension is the icing on a very serious and potent cake. This motorcycle is made for tall riders and being one, I loved Xpulse 200 Pro more than I should.
    Hero Xpulse 200 Pro Rear Adjustable Suspension
    For buyers who are looking for that one motorcycle to do everything including high-speed touring, Hero MotoCorp is cooking a new Xpulse with the same 210cc DOHC 4V liquid-cooled engine from Karizma XMR 210 with a 6-speed gearbox, slipper clutch and probably dual-channel ABS. Combining Xpulse Pro’s spectacular chassis and off-road prowess with the more powerful engine with a 6th gear might just yield the next best thing in the premium motorcycle segment. A prospect so good, I might consider buying an Xpulse 210 Pro for myself.
    Hero Xpulse 200 Pro LED Headlight More

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    MG Windsor EV Deliveries Start – New TVC Launched

    New MG Windsor EV Deliveries StartThe 38 kWh battery on MG Windsor EV promises 332 km of range and supports 45 kW DC charging enabling 10-80% SOC in 55 minutes
    With the launched of their Windsor EV, JSW MG Motor India has had a rather successful strategy to turn the tides around. Windsor EV has received excellent reception and it clocked over 15K bookings on the first day. The company has now commenced deliveries of MG Windsor to customers during the auspicious festive season.
    MG Windsor EV Deliveries Start
    The company has successfully cracked the code and introduced a whole new pricing strategy to accelerate faster adoption of EVs. Called BaaS (Battery as a Service), MG is offering battery rental schemes enabling extremely competitive Ex-sh prices. Soon, BaaS program was extended to incorporate Comet and ZS EV as well.
    New MG Windsor EV Aero Lounge Seats
    With BaaS as a potent weapon in their arsenal, JSW MG Motor India has successfully launched Windsor EV and has commenced deliveries of the same. At the same time, MG has launched “Live Business Class” campaign and released a TVC highlighting Windsor EV as the most comfortable vehicle in its segment.
    Windsor EV is a 4.3m long electric vehicle that starts at Rs 9.99 lakh (Ex-sh) with BaaS. The company is further sweetening the deal by offering one year free charging for Windsor EV buyers. Included in the package are comprehensive warranty and buyback plans that will appeal to prospective buyers.
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    Without BaaS, MG Windsor EV prices are still attractive as it starts from Rs 13.5 lakh (Ex-sh). For the price, MG Windsor EV packs quite a lot of features and equipment along with offering unmatched comfort. Notable exterior features include pop-out flush door handles, 18-inch alloy wheels and all-LED lighting among others.
    On the inside, we get an expansive space with a lot of room for both front seat and rear seat occupants. There is a comprehensive package of features to cater to tech-savvy buyers and exceptional quality of materials used along with excellent fit and finish. The 38 kWh battery promises up to 332 km of range from a single charge.
    New MG Windsor EV Infinity View Roof
    New TVC
    The company has released a new TVC aligning MG Windsor EV ownership with Business Class travel where luxury and comfort is concerned. Thus associating Windsor EV with premium and elegant mobility solutions that target demographic will appreciate.
    The TVC shows a family consisting of a father, a mother and a child traveling in both a business class jet 33,000 feet above and draws similarities of that experience to the comfort and luxury offered by MG Windsor EV. Highlighting features like a panoramic glass roof, 135-degree reclinable Aero-lounge seats, ambient lighting and the 15.6-inch infotainment screen, among others. More

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    2025 Yamaha FZ-25 Launch Price BRL 2.36M (Rs 3.5L) – Updated Features

    2025 Yamaha FZ-25In Brazil, Yamaha calls 2025 FZ-25 as Novo Fazer FZ25 Connected and comes with added features and new set of attractive colours
    Yamaha’s affordable quarter-litre street naked offering, the FZ-25, has just been updated overseas and it gets a host of new features and colours. In Brazil, Yamaha has just launched the updated FZ-25 for a starting price of BRL 2,359,000 which turns out to be Rs 3.5 lakh in today’s currency exchange rates.
    2025 Yamaha FZ-25
    Remember the Yamaha FZ-25 that was sold in India? It was the company’s quarter-litre offering in India and was poorly received in the market owing to a combination of factors. Slow sales prompted Yamaha to discontinue it in India and the stronger sales of R15 continued to bring in volumes.
    2025 Yamaha Novo Fazer FZ25 Connected
    In Brazil, however, Yamaha calls this street naked motorcycle as Fazer FZ25, which was not the case in India. Here, we got FZ-25 street naked motorcycle and a faired version of it as Fazer 25. The latter is regarded as one of the worst-looking motorcycles by Indian motorcycling fraternity and was discontinued in 2020.
    Sticking with the newly updated model, the company is calling it Novo Fazer FZ25 Connected, which sums up the update, to be honest. Apart from the feature upgrade, Novo Fazer FZ25 Connected is offered in four colourways – Branco Cristal, Magma Red, Racing Blue and Titanium Grey. Only Branco Cristal gets Gold wheels.
    2025 Yamaha Novo Fazer FZ25 Connected
    Yamaha seems to be selling the 2024 Fazer FZ25 as well, priced at BRL 2,290,000 (Rs 3.38 lakh) and is offered in Magma Red, Matt Grey, Matt Green and Racing Blue colourways. The 2025 model gets new graphics on body work too.
    What are the updates?
    Apart from the colourways and pricing, we can see a new ORVM design with 2025 Yamaha FZ-25 launched in Brazil. Along with that, there are LED turn indicators replacing halogen ones from MY24 Fazer FZ25. However, the main change is in the bike’s instrument cluster, which is a larger fully digital unit.
    2025 Yamaha Novo Fazer FZ25 Connected
    It features Bluetooth connectivity, for the first time. Flanked by tell tale lights, this digital cluster shows speedo, tacho, trip computer readings and average fuel economy reading, among others. When connected through the Y-Connect App, this display shows phone’s battery status along with call and message notifications. There doesn’t seem to be a navigation and gear position indicator features.
    The engine has been carried over with Yamaha Novo Fazer FZ25 Connected. This 249cc single-cylinder air-cooled engine is capable of developing 21.3 bhp of peak power, mated to a 5-speed gearbox.
    2025 Yamaha Novo Fazer FZ25 Connected
    Also read – New Yamaha R9 launched More

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    New KTM Touchscreens Launched – 8 inch Vertical, 8.8 inch Horizontal

    New KTM Touchscreens LaunchedNew TFT dashboards will initially be seen with KTM’s 2025 flagship bikes, before being introduced with smaller capacity models
    One of KTM’s key USPs has been its advanced tech features. Enthusiasts were recently treated to future possibilities with the AMT gearbox being tested by KTM. And now, the Austrian brand has showcased new TFT touchscreens for its upcoming 2025 models.
    KTM new TFT touchscreen dashboard
    The new TFT dashboards are part of the new updates that aim to improve the HMI (Human-Machine Interface) of KTM bikes. Based on the specific model, there’s a V80 vertically oriented 8-inch TFT dashboard. The H88 is an 8.8-inch TFT touchscreen, positioned horizontally. These screens come with inductive touchscreen functionality, which means they can be operated with or without gloves. Data display will now be clearer, as the new TFT screens have 1280 x 720 resolution.
    New KTM Touchscreens Launched – Vertical 8 inch
    Another key upgrade is the bonded screen technology that comes with anti-glare screen coatings. Moreover, the screen has anti-fingerprint and anti-reflex characteristics. Such updates ensure that the screen has a wider viewing angle. The colours on the screen will now be crispier as the new units support 256,000 colours. The earlier screens supported 65,000 colours. The significantly higher colour depth will also ensure enhanced detailing in varied lighting conditions.
    While IP rating has not been specifically mentioned, KTM has stated that the screens can work seamlessly, irrespective of the weather. Another innovative approach is the availability of touchscreen shortcut buttons on the main screen. This eliminates the need for auxiliary switches. Virtual buttons on the dash allow riders to directly control functions such as fog lights, rider heated seat and heated grips.
    New KTM Touchscreens Launched – Horizontal 8.8 inch
    Enhanced customization options
    KTM’s new TFT dashboards now offer more customization options to riders. For example, users can access configurable split-screen functionality and choose from 5 distinct layout options. Based on their preferences, users can choose what they want to display on their core home screen. The options include map navigation telemetry, cruise control functions, music or favourites. Users can also choose a more generalized screen option that displays the basic information.
    New KTM Touchscreens Launched
    Revised and optimized switchgear
    Further improving overall user experience, the revised switchgear now comes with a dedicated Ride Mode button. Other updates include new cruise control buttons, a new 5-way joystick and back button and new light and ignition switch. For AMT models, there’s a new A/M (automatic/manual) button. Moreover, there are new paddle buttons that can be customized in case of models that are not equipped with AMT. Backlit feature for the new buttons ensures that they can be easily located. The buttons are also positioned at the right place for easy accessibility.
    Offline map navigation, eSIM, Wi-Fi, Bluetooth
    KTM’s new TFT dashboards now come integrated with offline map navigation. Users will be able to access real-time navigation without the need to pair their smartphones with the dashboard. Riders will benefit from active route guidance and route planning as well as preprogrammed Points of Interest and A-B routes. Connectivity has been enhanced with the upgraded CCU3.0 connectivity unit. It runs on Android Automotive operating system and has 3 GB of RAM and 32 GB of storage.
    New KTM Touchscreens Launched
    Users will be able to access IoT connectivity with eSIM, Bluetooth, Wi-Fi and a GPS Antenna. The CCU3.0 also connects automatically with the user’s smartphone when the ignition is turned on. This allows easy access to smartphone features such as music or phone contacts list. While initial updates for the CCU3.0 will be done by KTM dealerships, OTA updates functionality will be provided in the future. More

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    BYD eMAX 7 Vs Toyota Innova Hycross Hybrid – Specs, Prices Compared

    BYD eMAX 7 Vs Innova HycrossThe fully electric BYD eMAX 7 boasts more performance with up to 201 bhp and 310 Nm, sprinting from 0-100 km/h in just 8.6 seconds
    With the launch of BYD eMAX 7, India just got another premium MPV to spoil the buyers around the festive season. Currently, it is Toyota that absolutely trounces rivals in the premium MPV space with the popular Innova Crysta and the newer and more tech-savvy Innova Hycross.
    Because Innova Crysta is a ladder frame MPV powered by a diesel engine, it is not an immediate rival to BYD eMAX 7. Leaving Toyota’s Innova Hycross Hybrid as the primary size-wise and price-wise rival. How does the just-launched BYD eMAX 7 compare against Innova Hycross Hybrid on paper? Let’s take a look.
    BYD eMAX 7 Vs Innova Hycross – Dimensions
    BYD eMAX 7 Vs Toyota Innova Hycross Hybrid
    The comparison, BYD eMAX 7 vs Innova Hycross, is a lot more interesting than one might think. We say this because BYD is priced very attractively and the top-spec Superior trim even undercuts Innova Hycross Hybrid’s top-spec ZX(O) trim, despite packing a larger 71.8 kWh battery as opposed to Innova Hycross’ small 1.6 kWh – 1.7 kWh battery pack.
    Among the main reasons for BYD eMAX 7’s attractive pricing is due to the more attractive tax benefits pure EVs enjoy over Hybrid vehicles. Dimensionally, both vehicles are close to each other, but Innova Hycross is 45 mm longer, 35 mm wider, 95 mm taller and has a 50mm longer wheelbase when compared to eMAX 7. Ground clearance is higher on Hycross by 15 mm.
    BYD eMAX 7 Vs Innova Hycross – Pricing & Specs
    Also, Hycross comes with larger 18-inch alloys, while eMAX 7 has 17-inchers. Because of the large proportions, Hycross’ 18-inch wheels look tiny, while the ones on eMAX 7 look adequate. Specs-wise, both are monocoque FWD vehicles and are yet to be crash-tested. BYD eMAX 7 has up to 71.8 kWh battery with up to 530 km claimed pure electric range.
    On Hycross, battery is a tiny unit and Toyota doesn’t mention pure electric range at all. In Pure EV mode, maximum speed Hycross can achieve is 40 km/h, beyond which the IC engine takes over. Where performance is concerned, eMAX 7 has an upper hand as it has up to 201 bhp of peak power and 310 Nm of peak torque and can sprint to 100 km/h in 8.6 seconds and hit 180 km/h top speed.
    BYD eMAX 7 Vs Innova Hycross – Features
    Which is more feature loaded?
    As both vehicles closely match in Ex-sh pricing, prospective buyers might aggressively compare between the two in the features department. Starting with safety features, both get ADAS with multiple airbags along with a 360-degree camera. Both offer front electrically adjustable seats, front ventilated seats, auto LED headlights, wireless charging pad, electronic parking brake, electric tailgate and more.
    However, Innova Hycross takes the cake here as it concentrates a lot more on 2nd row passengers. It offers rear sun shades and electrically adjustable seats with ottomans. Also, Toyota rightfully offers a separate climate zone for 2nd row passengers, unlike many OEMs who offer dual-zone feature for each front occupants, which isn’t logical.
    BYD eMAX 7
    In comparison, eMAX 7 offers a single zone climate control and even misses out on an auto-dimming IRVM. BYD eMAX 7 strikes back when it comes to infotainment experience as it offers a larger 12.8-inch screen, which is rotatable to suit personal preferences and it is the only one to offer projector headlights, swipe-style rear indicators, TPMS and an NFC key card.
    Hycross offers a panoramic sunroof, while eMAX 7 gets a fixed glass roof. On paper, BYD eMAX 7 appears to be a more performance-oriented driver/owner’s vehicle. Whereas, Innova Hycross appears to be more catering to chauffeur-driven owners owing to its extensive rear-seat conveniences. Price and features-wise, they are pretty neck-and-neck, with both boasting strengths in their own regards.
    Toyota Innova Hycross More

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    KTM To Go Clutchless – Select 2025 Models To Get AMT Option

    Upcoming KTM ADV Motorcycle With AMT GearboxWith gear shifts taking just 50 milliseconds, KTM’s AMT system delivers the same level of performance as a manual transmission equipped with a quickshifter
    Earlier this year in June, KTM had teased an AMT system at the gruelling Red Bull Erzbergrodeo race. Latest reports indicate that KTM will introduce the clutchless AMT transmission with select models in 2025. KTM Bikes using the LC8 V-Twin engine such as the 1290 Super Adventures, 1290 Super Dukes and upcoming 1390 Adventure and 1390 Super Adventure could be among the first KTM bikes to get the AMT system.
    KTM clutchless AMT – How it works?
    For initiating the shifts, KTM’s AMT system utilizes an electromagnetic shift actuator. It works by turning the shift drum. KTM’s AMT setup is quite fast as the gear shifts take only around 50 milliseconds. This is almost the same as the time taken to shift gears using a quickshifter. Users can choose either the fully automatic mode or a manual mode. In the manual mode, the gears can be changed via switchgear mounted paddles or using the foot shifter.
    KTM ADV Without Clutch
    The manual mode works without a clutch, which can have both advantages and disadvantages. For example, professional riders may prefer a clutch for its ability to allow finer control. However, KTM says that the clutchless systems can be advantageous when negotiating a slope, riding at slow speeds, stopping and pulling away. The clutchless system will be especially beneficial for bigger, heavier KTM bikes.
    No stall
    KTM has ensured that its AMT system is free from stalls. Irrespective of the bike’s speed, it will be almost impossible to stall the engine. The gear shift mechanism works in combination with the ride modes. This allows users to tune the gear shifts based on the riding conditions and their preferences.
    As soon as the first gear is engaged, the engine speed is raised, thereby initiating the forward drive. At the same time, the centrifugal clutch is engaged, allowing the bike to move forward. This setup is similar to some of the aftermarket products such as the Rekluse Auto Clutch. However, KTM’s AMT system has an additional electronic control system.
    AMT system has the gear shifts in a  ‘P – N – 1 – 2 – 3 – 4 – 5 – 6’ sequence. P denotes Park, which is there to avoid any unwanted rolling. It is made possible with the use of a locking pawl installed within the gearbox. Irrespective of whether the engine is running or not, the Park and Neutral positions can be engaged only via the switchgear paddle shifters. Moreover, either the front or rear brake has to be engaged for the AMT system to apply the first gear. While KTM has assured that the AMT will have minimal weight gain, it remains to be seen if there is any significant cost increase.
    KTM AMT rivals
    Automatic gearbox for premium bikes is not new. Honda’s Dual Clutch Transmission (DCT) is already quite popular, having sold more than 200,000 such bikes. Honda bikes like Africa Twin Adventure Sports have the DCT option. Similarly, there’s BMW’s Automated Shift Assistant (ASA) seen with the latest GS range. Yamaha is also working on its Y-AMT system, which can be offered with select bikes in the future.
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    Tata Punch EV, Tiago EV Get More Accessible – Additional Savings Up To Rs 56,000

    New Tata Punch EV. Image – Shubhadip SinghaLatest cash discounts and corporate discounts are in addition to the reduced prices announced for Tata EVs last month in September
    With multiple options in the entry-level EV segment, Tata Motors has acquired close to 2/3rd market share. To boost sales during the festive season, prices of select variants of Nexon EV, Punch EV and Tigor EV were recently reduced by up to Rs 3 lakh. And now, Tata has announced more savings for potential buyers.
    Tata Punch EV – Up to Rs 26,000 savings
    For both the MY2023 and MY2024 models of Punch EV, Tata Motors is offering a cash discount of Rs 20,000. In addition, a corporate discount of up to Rs 6,000 can also be availed by eligible customers. The cash discount is being offered in the form of Green Bonus.
    Earlier in September, Tata Motors had announced the Festival of Cars festive offers for select electric models. Punch EV was also part of this offer, with prices reduced by up to Rs 1.2 lakh on select variants. Punch EV is now more accessible at a starting price of Rs 9.99 lakh, as compared to Rs 10.99 lakh earlier. For the top variant, prices were reduced from Rs 14.99 lakh to Rs 13.79 lakh.
    Tata Tiago EV – Up to Rs 56,000 savings
    Customers planning to buy Tiago EV can access max savings of up to Rs 56,000. Provided that they choose the mid-spec XT variant with the 24-kWh battery pack that offers a range of 275 km. A cash discount of Rs 50,000 and corporate discount of up to Rs 6,000 is applicable on this variant of Tiago EV. Folks buying the entry-level XE or XT (smaller 19.2 kWh battery pack) variant of Tiago EV can benefit from a cash discount of Rs 10,000. Variants with the smaller battery pack offer a range of 221 km.
    2024 Tata Tiago EV
    Last month, the top variant of Tiago EV had witnessed a price reduction of up to Rs 40,000. It is now available at Rs 10.99 lakh, as compared to Rs 11.39 lakh earlier. Base variant of Tiago EV is available at Rs 7.99 lakh. With the latest cash discount and corporate discount, Tiago EV has become even more accessible.
    Managing headwinds
    While OEMs announce festive offers every year, the recent price cuts and cash discounts and corporate discounts for Tata EVs could also be a strategy to overcome negative market sentiments. At a time when the EV segment is expected to register strong growth, the MoM numbers for electric car sales show an overall decline of -7.32% in September 2024.
    Even the second best selling electric car brand MG Motor has registered negative MoM growth in the month. In the mainstream EV segment, Mahindra and Citroen have registered strong growth. Although, actual sales numbers are a small fraction when compared to ICE car sales.
    Talking about Tata Motors, the company is contemplating other measures as well to boost sales. For example, the BaaS (Battery as a Service) option can be introduced for all Tata electric cars. With BaaS, customers will be able to access these EVs at a lower price point. Recently launched MG Windsor EV received 15,176 bookings in a single day. It is evidence of the immense potential of the BaaS program. More