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      in Bike

      Bajaj Chetak Blue 3202 Launch Price Rs 1.15L – Replaces Urbane

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      Bajaj Chetak Blue 3202 LaunchedWith new, more affordable models and continuous dealer network expansion, Bajaj Chetak has emerged as the 3rd best selling electric scooter in India
      As reported earlier, Bajaj has started using new battery cells for its Chetak scooters. These allow a higher range and have also helped in bringing down the price of Chetak scooters. Most recent addition is Chetak Blue 3202, which is essentially a replacement for the mid-spec Chetak Urbane variant.
      Chetak Blue 3202 – What’s new?
      New Chetak Blue 3202 has a higher range and is available at a lower price point. As compared to the 126 km range of the outgoing Urbane variant, the new Chetak Blue 3202 has a range of 137 km. Users also stand to save Rs 8,000, as Chetak Blue 3202 is available at Rs 1.15 lakh. In comparison, the earlier Urbane variant was offered at a starting price of Rs 1.23 lakh.
      Bajaj Chetak Blue 3202 – Colours
      Apart from the range boost, most other features have been carried forward. Bajaj Chetak Blue 3202 has a full colour LCD display that promises glare-free rides. The circular display is designed to present all the information in a clear and concise manner. It is designed to ensure clear visibility across both dark and bright environs.
      To let people know that their electric scooter is making a positive impact on the planet, Chetak Blue 3202 comes with a green scorecard. Accessible via the Chetak smartphone app, the green scorecard shows various useful stats such as reduction in CO2 and fuel savings. Chetak Blue 3202 is available in four colour options – Matte Coarse Grey, Cyber White, Brooklyn Black and Indigo Metallic.
      Bajaj Chetak Blue 3202 – LCD Display
      Get more features with TecPac
      With the standard Chetak Blue 3202 model, the top speed of the scooter is fixed at 63 km/H. There is limited app connectivity and only Eco mode is available. To unlock the full potential of Chetak Blue 3202, users can choose the TecPac kit. With TecPac, users can reach a top speed of 73 km/H. In addition to the Eco mode, there’s a Sports Mode as well.
      TecPac allows access to the complete range of app-based connectivity features. Users can also access advanced features such as hill hold and reverse mode. Chetak Blue 3202 has keyless entry and is offered with an off-board charger.
      Bajaj Chetak Blue 3202
      The key fob can be used to locate the scooter within a 30-meter radius. Users can also check the current location of their scooter in real time with the geo-location feature. Chetak app issues tamper alerts, supports OTA updates and provides vehicle health information.
      Chetak Blue 3202 performance, specs
      While the range has increased, the 3.2 kWh battery capacity is the same as earlier. With the 650 watt off-board charger, Chetak Blue 3202 can be charged in 5 hours 50 minutes. With the new models, Chetak sales can gain more traction in the coming months. In the first 7 months of CY2024, Chetak is currently trailing iQube by just around 1,300 units. Ola S1 continues to be on top, with market share of around 48%. More

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      in Electric Cars

      Mercedes Maybach EQS 680 Electric SUV Launch Price Rs 2.25 Cr – 611 Kms Range, 11 Airbags

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      Mercedes Maybach EQS 680 India LaunchMercedes-Maybach EQS 680 comes in as the company’s flagship electric SUV – Setting a new benchmark in the luxury BEV segment
      Mercedes-Maybach EQS 680 has been launched in India. It is the first electric Maybach from the German automaker and true to its brand, exudes the epitome of both luxury and refinement. Priced from Rs 2.25 crore, ex-sh; Mercedes Maybach EQS 680 Electric SUV claimed range is up to 611 kms as per the WLTP cycle. Today’s Merc launch follows launch of the Mercedes EQA and EQB electric SUVs in July this year.
      Mercedes Maybach EQS 680 Electric SUV Details
      Mercedes-Maybach EQS commands a strong road presence standing 5,125mm in length, 1959mm in width and 1,721mm in height. It rides on a 3,210mm long wheelbase and gets a 440 liter boot. It rides on 21 or 22 inch alloy and forged wheels.
      Mercedes Maybach EQS 680 India Launch
      Where its design is concerned, it is set apart by a dual tone paint scheme, vertical slats on what would have been its front grille with the three point star logo and chrome finished Maybach logos prominently displayed on its front fascia. It also sports a distinctive “EQS” embossed on its window frame. Mercedes Digital Light LED headlamp with 1 million pixels per headlight and clusters with LED DRLs that also function as turn-indicators, tail lamps connected by an LED light bar, a bonnet with prominent character lines and a roof spoiler are a part of its exteriors.
      The interiors are similar to that seen on the regular EQS SUV. Its plethora of screens are its highlight as the Maybach EQS SUV receives an MBUX Hyperscreen along with twin 11.6 inch screens for passengers at the rear. The MBUX tablet can also be used outside the vehicle. Features also include a 15 speaker Burmester surround sound system, ambient lighting with 64 colour LEDs and 13 lighting combinations and multi zone climate control.
      Mercedes Maybach EQS 680 India Launch
      Interiors and Safety
      New Mercedes Maybach EQS receives premium seats with Nappa leather upholstery. Executive seats come in with ventilation and massage function along with neck and shoulder heating as well as calf massage.
      Mercedes Maybach EQS 680 India Launch
      Mercedes has also included a boss mode package on the new Maybach EQS SUV, which is exclusive for the left-rear occupant. Nappa leather also extends to the steering wheel with the Maybach logo. Interestingly, the steering wheel can tilt from 2.5 to 10 degrees depending upon speed. It also comes with self-leveling, height-adjustable AIRMATIC suspension.
      Mercedes Maybach EQS 680 India Launch
      Safety features include a 360 degree surround camera, 11 airbags which also includes a central airbag for passengers at the rear which is the first of its kind in the Indian market. This central airbag deploys between the front seats on impact. Safety is also via advanced driver assistance systems (ADAS), ABS, EBD and traction control.
      Mercedes Maybach EQS 680 India Launch
      As a part of the safety equipment, seat buckles come with chrome edging and illuminate when the passenger is fastening the seat belt. The Mercedes-Maybach EQS SUV receives driving modes of Eco, Sport, Offroad, Individual, along with an exclusive ‘Maybach’ mode.
      Mercedes Maybach EQS 680 India Launch
      Battery Pack, Powertrain, and Specifications
      Mercedes-Maybach EQS SUV in its top spec 680 trim gets a dual-motor setup and 4MATIC all-wheel drive as standard. Power and torque figures are at 658 hp and 950 Nm respectively. It gets a 122kWh battery pack that supports 200kW DC fast charging. Acceleration from 0 – 100 km/h is achieved in 4.4 seconds while top speed is at 210 km/h.
      Mercedes Maybach EQS 680 India Launch
      Santosh Iyer, Managing Director & CEO, Mercedes-Benz India – “With Mercedes-Maybach EQS SUV we continue to hone our BEV portfolio further in India, offering a diverse choice for our discerning customers. We strongly believe there can be no luxury without sustainability and Mercedes-Benz will continue to create the B EV ecosystem for transitioning to electromobility of future.” More

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      Two Wheeler Sales Aug 2024 – Hero, Honda, TVS, Bajaj, Suzuki, Royal Enfield

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      New Royal Enfield Classic 350Hero MotoCorp once again commanded a No. 1 sport on domestic list, a position it had lost to Honda in July 2024 – Honda continues to lead in total sales
      Domestic sales and exports of two wheeler majors Honda, Hero, TVS, Bajaj, Suzuki and Royal Enfield in August 2024 ended positively. Overall sales (domestic + exports) showed off a 10.14% YoY growth over sales in August 2023. MoM sales also improved even more prominently by 16.06% as compared to sales of July 2024. One point to note is that while in July 2024 Honda (HMSI) had commanded a No. 1 spot in terms of domestic sales, in August 2024, Hero MotoCorp once again regained its title.
      Two Wheeler Sales August 2024 – Hero Back at No. 1 on Domestic List
      These 6 leading automakers, saw 9.40% YoY growth to 16,34,738 units sold in August 2024. This was over 14,94,324 units sold in August 2023 relating to a 1,40,414 unit volume growth. MoM sales also surged by 19.17% from 13,71,720 units sold in July 2024. Hero MotoCorp commanded this list with a 4.08% YoY and 41.73% MoM growth to 4,92,263 units in August 2024. There were 4,72,947 units and 3,47,335 units sold in August 2023 and July 2024 respectively. Hero MotoCorp commands a 30.11% share on this list.
      Two Wheeler Sales – Aug 2024
      Domestic sales of HMSI saw an 8.97% YoY improvement to 4,91,678 units in the past month. This was over 4,51,200 units sold in the same month last year. MoM performance also ended positively with an 11.97% growth with HMSI commanding a 30.08% share.
      TVS (2,89,073 units) and Bajaj Auto (2,08,621 units) both posted improvement in YoY and MoM sales while Suzuki sales grew by 5.34% YoY to 87,480 units but fell by 13.04% on a MoM basis from 1,00,602 units sold in July 2024. Royal Enfield trailed this list with 65,623 units sold last month, a 5.43% YoY decline but a 6.59% MoM growth.
      Two Wheeler Sales – Aug 2024
      Two Wheeler Exports August 2024
      Export numbers of these 6 leading two wheeler makers also ended positively last month with a 14.27% YoY and a marginal 1.95% MoM improvement to 3,08,922 units. Bajaj Auto lead the export list with 1,26,557 units shipped in the past month, a 1.89% YoY growth but a 1.66% MoM decline from 1,28,694 units exported in July 2024. Bajaj Auto commands a 40.97% share on this export list.
      Two Wheeler Exports – Aug 2024
      TVS exports grew by 18.91% YoY and 5.08% MoM to 89,768 units while Honda exports were higher by 78.76% YoY and 7.26% MoM to 47,174 units. Hero MotoCorp posted a YoY improvement by 27.44% though exports dipped by 11.62% on a MoM basis to 20,097 units. Suzuki (17,320 units) and Royal Enfield (8,006 units) both suffered a YoY decline in exports while they both saw improved MoM performance.
      Two Wheeler Total Sales August 2024
      Two wheeler total sales (Domestic + Exports) saw a10.14% YoY and 16.06% MoM improvement to 19,43,660 units over 17,64,667 units and 16,74,730 units sold in August 2023 and July 2024 respectively. Honda led the list with 5,38,852 units sold in the past month relating to a 12.83% YoY and 11.54% MoM improvement. Hero was at No.2 with 5,12,360 unit sales last month and also showed off both YoY and MoM growth.  
      Two Wheeler Total Sales (Domestic + Exports) – Aug 2024
      TVS (3,78,841 units), Bajaj Auto (3,35,178 units) and Suzuki (1,04,800 units) each showed outstanding YoY growth. Even as TVS and Bajaj saw its MoM sales improve, Suzuki sales dipped 10.21%. Royal Enfield total sales also fell 5.10% YoY but saw an 8.88% MoM improvement to 73,629 units. More

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      BMW CE 02 Officially Teased – Electric Scooter Launch Sooner Than You Think

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      BMW CE 02With up to two removable batteries on offer, 2 kWh each, BMW CE 02 might provide 90 km range on a single charge and a top speed of 95 km/h
      While mainstream electric scooters have had a significant growth in sales and volume, premium electric scooters have not. However, once a certain threshold of premiumness is crossed and landed in ultra niche territory, there seems to be a market for it. At least that’s what BMW Motorrad thinks and is soon launching their CE 02 electric scooter in India.
      BMW CE 02 Officially Teased
      Where electric scooters go, BMW does things differently. Very differently. The company is proud of this too and advertises unique design as a strength. In one of its recent teasers of CE 02, BMW Motorrad denoted “They say everyone has 7 doppelgangers. We beg to differ”. “We challenge you, find one!”.
      BMW CE 02 Officially Teased
      There is some virtue in BMW’s scooter designs and I have personally experienced it at the recent CE 04 launch in Delhi. Now, the company has been teasing their smaller CE 02 on social media handles and the launch is “sooner than you think”, according to BMW Motorrad. Say, ahead of the festive season, maybe?
      From what we can see in the teaser, BMW CE 02 will come with a lot of attitude. It has an air of flamboyance around it, something not seen in mainstream scooters. It has funky design and detailing which will appeal to youngsters. We can even see a fancy looking saree guard, confirming the intended market.
      BMW CE 02 Officially Teased
      BMW CE 02 is highly likely to be manufactured by TVS in their Hosur facility in Tamil Nadu. Announced in October 2023, BMW CE 02 is supposed to be the first electric product co-developed between TVS and BMW. If this is the case, CE 02 may get sensible pricing. Fingers crossed!
      What to expect?
      A squarish LED headlight setup with surrounding LED DRL, a small fly screen above it looks modern and futuristic. Suspension at the front gets USD telescopic forks finished in a lovely gold shade. The long wheelbase and funky side body panels grab all the attention. There are disc brakes on either end and rear tyre is a fat 150-section unit.
      BMW CE 02 Officially Teased
      Turn indicators are sleek LED units, ORVMs are large and might offer good visibility. Owing to its long wheelbase, CE 02 appears like it is a single-seater, but there is space for a pillion along with a proper grab rail as seen in the recent teasers. Features-wise, we might expect Type-C charger, keyless go along with a 3.5-inch TFT instrument cluster.
      There is no official word regarding the powertrain for Indian market. But we can draw some conclusions based on global model. BMW CE 02 comes with two removable batteries, 2 kWh each with up to 90 km range. There is one electric motor with up to 15 bhp of peak power and 95 km/h top speed. More

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      in Electric Cars

      Ola Electric Auto Rickshaw Spied Testing For The First Time – Launch In 2024?

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      Ola Electric Auto Rickshaw – RaahiWhile Ola Electric auto rickshaw has been spied for the first time, there are no details about launch timeline or powertrain
      Within the commercial segment, the EV penetration is more profound in electric 3W auto rickshaws and 3W cargo vehicles. There are many players in this segment already, comprising of both mainstream manufacturers and startups. Ola Electric is foraying into this segment with its upcoming Raahi, and it was recently spied for the first time in Bengaluru.
      Ola Electric Auto Rickshaw Spied
      Electric mobility solutions provider, Ola Electric, has been advancing into more and more segments and genres since the startup’s debut. The company’s aggressive pricing strategies have worked wonders and has quickly established itself as a leader in electric scooters.
      Ola Electric Auto Rickshaw – Side
      The company intends to create a similar effect in other 2W and 3W genres. In this regard, we recently saw Ola launching its Roadster electric motorcycle range with very aggressive prices. Before that, Ola had patented Roadster range in India alongside an electric auto rickshaw and an electric 3W cargo vehicle.
      Now, Ola Electric auto rickshaw has been spied testing for the first time around Bengaluru, Karnataka. Design-wise, we can see that Ola Electric has stayed true to the patent designs and follows an identical silhouette.
      Ola Electric Auto Rickshaw – Rear
      Unlike the patent designs, this test mule didn’t have doors for a concealed cabin. Instead, we can see an unrestricted entrance to driver and a door on either sides for rear passengers. Future versions of this Ola Raahi electric rickshaw might get a concealed cabin and an option for air conditioning.
      Where design is concerned, Ola Raahi might very well be the flashiest auto rickshaw ever launched in India. While TVS offers LED headlights on their rickshaws, Ola seems to be trying to one-up TVS with projector LED headlights and square LED DRLs. We can also see a single-blade windshield wiper as well.
      Ola Electric Rickshaw CV
      Will this rickshaw debut with a removable battery?
      From the rear, spied Ola electric auto rickshaw looks like any other rickshaws on sale in India. Wheels look like they are 10-inches in size and could come with tubeless tyres. Space looks adequate for three passengers abreast in the back seat.
      Ola Electric Cargo CV
      While there is a good chance of this rickshaw being called Ola Raahi, there is basically no information regarding the powertrain. Patent designs of a removable battery module from Ola Electric was leaked some time ago. This removable and swappable battery makes a lot of sense to offer in a commercial vehicle, maximizing up-time.
      Ola Swappable Battery Patented
      Source More

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      Bajaj Pulsar Ethanol Flex Fuel Motorcycle Showcased – E100 Capable NS160

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      Bajaj Pulsar Ethanol Flex Fuel Motorcycle
      Indian automotive industry just adopted E20 fuels and E100 Capable Bajaj Pulsar Ethanol Flex Fuel motorcycle prototype shows future possibilities
      If there is one motorcycle manufacturer in India who is exploring alternative fuels, it is Bajaj Auto. The company has been proactively propogating and pushing the boundaries towards alternative fuels. Bajaj recently showcased a Pulsar NS160 which is capable of running on 100% Ethanol. Let’s take a look.
      Bajaj Pulsar Ethanol Flex Fuel Motorcycle
      After launching the world’s 1st CNG motorcycle in the form of Freedom 125, Bajaj Auto is on the verge of launching more affordable motorcycles based on its CNG powertrain. However, the pursuit of eco-friendly fuels doesn’t stop with CNG. Bajaj has now demonstrated their expertise in flex fuel technology as well.
      Showcased at IBET (India Bio Energy & Tech) Expo 2024, Bajaj is proudly displaying their engineering might and their vision of future powertrains and fuels. Ethanol has been a promising alternative to conventional petrol. Thus giving way to flex-fuel capable motorcycles running on Ethanol or an Ethanol blend.
      The Bajaj Pulsar Ethanol motorcycle showcased at 2024 IBET is capable of running E100 fuel (100% Ethanol) and also, different blends of Ethanol with conventional gasoline. A flex fuel motorcycle needs greater engineering than a conventional E20 capable motorcycles sold in India.
      Bajaj Pulsar Ethanol Flex Fuel Motorcycle Showcased at 2024 IBET
      That is because Ethanol tends to hold moisture in considerable amounts leading to internal corrosion with time. Fuel tank and supply along with fuel delivery systems need to be thoroughly re-engineered to accommodate Ethanol without corrosion. Also, the ECU has to be smart enough to recognise the blend and adjust parameters accordingly.
      There has been a major push towards greener fuels in India and the entire automotive industry was shifted from E10 to E20 fuel system a couple of years ago. Bajaj’s advances into Ethanol fuel will put them at an advantage when the norm is shifted to higher Ethanol blends in the future.
      100% Ethanol Capable
      Bajaj Auto has been active in Brazilian market where the company sells E27 capable motorcycles. The Bajaj Pulsar NS160 Flex Fuel motorcycle showcased alongside Freedom 125 at 2024 IBET looks almost identical to the standard motorcycle. While fuel storage and delivery systems have been altered, the powertrain is likely to have remained the same.
      We’re talking about a 160.3cc single-cylinder 4V oil-cooled engine, mated to a 5-speed gearbox. We can also see similar componentry on this particular unit too. As of now, it is unsure when E100 fuels will be mainstream, but higher blends of Ethanol is most probably the future of ICE motorcycles and scooters. More

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      in Bike

      2024 Hero Splendor Launched With Disc Brake – Old Vs New Walkaround

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      2024 Hero Splendor with Disc BrakeFront disc brake is available as an optional feature with Splendor+ XTEC and costs Rs 3,550 extra
      India’s top selling 100cc motorcycle for several years, Hero Splendor is now available with a front disc brake. This is a new milestone for the world’s top selling motorcycle that currently has more than 4 crore users.
      Hero Splendor gets 240 mm front disc brake
      It is likely that the decision to introduce a front disc brake option with Splendor+ is based on evolving market dynamics and consumer feedback. Awareness about rider safety has increased in recent years and customers are willing to pay extra to access improved safety features and components. The 240 mm front disc brake is available with Splendor+ XTEC model as an optional feature. While the standard Splendor+ XTEC drum brake variant is priced at Rs 80,161, the disc brake variant starts at Rs 83,461.
      2024 Hero Splendor with Disc Brake
      A disc brake can be useful, as it enhances stopping power across both dry and wet conditions. As compared to drum brakes, a disc brake is even more relevant for urban roads where sudden stops are quite common. With reliable braking at all times, the user’s confidence also increases. As multiple benefits are available, paying an additional Rs 3.5k seems like a good investment.
      Folks planning to buy Splendor+ XTEC disc brake variant can choose from colour options of Black Sparkling Blue, Black Tornado Grey and Red Black. The standard Splendor+ XTEC model has an additional Pearl Fadeless White colour option. Below is a detailed walkaround comparison by Vehicle Boss channel.
      [embedded content]
      Interestingly, the front disc brake option is not available with the newly launched Splendor+ XTEC 2.0 model. It has some additional features such as Eco indicator, Hazard light and glove box with hinge design. It is possible that the disc brake option can be introduced with Splendor+ XTEC 2.0 model in the future.
      2024 Hero Splendor
      No other changes
      Apart from the optional front disc brake, there are no other changes to Hero Splendor+ XTEC variant. Powering the bike is a 97.2cc, air cooled, single cylinder engine. It generates 8.02 PS and 8.05 Nm and is mated to a 4-speed constant mesh gearbox. Splendor+ XTEC has a tubular double cradle frame, integrated with telescopic forks at front and swingarm with 5-step adjustable hydraulic shock absorbers at rear. Both ends have 18-inch wheels, shod with 80/100 tubeless tyres. Rear wheel has a 130 mm drum brake.
      Hero Splendor+ XTEC has an LED high intensity position lamp and a full digital instrument console. Information displayed includes digital speed display and real time mileage indicator (first in segment). The bike has Bluetooth, allowing users to access call and SMS alerts.
      Safety package includes a side stand engine cut off function. With xSENS FI technology, users can access instant pick-up, higher fuel efficiency and enhanced power delivery. Also integrated is the i3S technology that boosts fuel efficiency and reduces emissions. Not commonly seen in the 100cc motorcycle segment, a disc brake will help improve Splendor’s sellability. Hero Splendor already commands around 1/3rd market share in the top 10 list of best selling motorcycles in India. More

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      2024 Hero Destini In White With Chrome Styling – Official Teaser Out

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      2024 Hero Destini 125All new Hero Destini 125 will be launched in a few days – Ahead of that, here is a new teaser revealing more details
      Hero MotoCorp has once again teased the highly anticipated new Destini 125 scooter, which is set to launch in just a few days. The latest teaser, showcased on their social media platforms, highlights a dual-tone color scheme of white and bronze chrome, offering a fresh look for the updated model.
      A Retro Twist with Contemporary Features
      Hero MotoCorp is the dominant player in the commuter motorcycle segment, but its scooters haven’t garnered the same level of popularity. However, the new Destini 125 aims to change that, with its retro-inspired design that caters to users looking for a blend of classic aesthetics and modern functionality. 
      2024 Hero Destini 125
      In the teaser, the scooter’s curvy, minimalistic body panels seem to take inspiration from iconic brands like Vespa and Lambretta. The front apron has received a significant redesign, featuring a sleeker lighting setup and smoother layers that elevate the scooter’s visual appeal. The teaser also reveals updated rear-view mirrors, a new headlight cowl, and a redesigned front fender. Previously, the dual-tone Pearl Black color option was revealed, and now with the new white shade with bronze chrome styling, it’s likely that other vibrant color options will follow.
      [embedded content]
      The scooter also features a new stepped seat in a sporty dual-tone theme, smooth side panels, and a striking 3D ‘Destini’ logo, giving it a dynamic profile. The updated scooter has also seen improvements in practicality, such as a newly designed pillion backrest and a fresh exhaust shield. Alloy wheels may get an upgrade, with a hope that Hero opts for 12-inch wheels over the existing 10-inch setup.
      What to Expect Under the Hood
      Mechanically, the new Hero Destini 125 is expected to retain the same 124.6cc air-cooled, single-cylinder engine, producing 9 bhp and 10.4 Nm of torque. However, there could be a significant upgrade in braking, as certain variants may come equipped with a front disc brake, enhancing overall performance. Suspension duties will remain the same with telescopic forks at the front and a spring-loaded hydraulic damper at the rear.
      The Destini 125 may also get a fully digital instrument cluster, replacing the current digi-analog display. The scooter is set to launch during the upcoming festive season, likely at a slightly higher price than the current model. Nevertheless, it will still be one of the most affordable 125cc scooters in the country, making it an attractive option for budget-conscious buyers seeking a retro-modern scooter. Stay tuned for the official launch of the new Hero Destini 125 as it promises to bring a refreshing change to Hero MotoCorp’s scooter lineup. More