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      in Electric Cars

      Vinfast VF e34 Electric Car Debuts In Vietnam – Price 690m VND (Rs 21.6 L)

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      Vinfast Electric CarVF e34 uses a 42 kWh battery allowing for a range of 300 kms on full charge
      Vietnamese automotive startup, VinFast is currently developing a range of premium electric vehicles. Today they announced the global debut of Vietnam’s first electric car, called e34. Priced at 690 million VND (US$ 29,819 / Rs 21,63,174).
      Vinfast e34 is open for orders deliveries to domestic customers is set to commence from December. Vinfast has also set up a JV with Taiwan’s ProLogium for the production of Solid-State EV Battery Packs. By 2022, VinFast also plans to export premium electric car models in the D and E segments.
      Vinfast Electric Car
      VF e34 Features
      VF e34, announced earlier this year in Jan 21 under the code name VF31 is a C segment electric car. Early customers who place bookings prior to June 30, 2021 can take advantage of special pricing at 590 million VND (US$25,496 / Rs.18,49,679) along with a 1 year free battery subscription.
      This new electric car in Vietnam measures 4,300mm in length, 1,793mm in width and 1,613mm in height with a wheelbase of 2,611mm. It gets ground clearance at 180mm and commands a total kerb weight of 1,490 kgs.
      Vinfast Electric Car
      It comes in with several driver oriented features along with remote software update, remote customer support, emergency rescue services with location of nearest charging station and authorized dealerships, battery tracking status, vehicle operation history and theft alerts.
      E34 is powered by an electric motor and uses a 42 kWh battery making 110 kW power and 242 Nm torque and offering a range of 300 km on a complete charge. It receives MacPherson front suspension and rear suspension via a torsion bar.
      VinFast offers a 10 year warranty with the VF e34. Users have to pay a monthly battery subscription of US$ 62 per month for a travel distance of 1,400 kgs. As against selling cars with conventional batteries, VinFast is also entering into the battery rental service.
      Vinfast Electric Car
      This will benefit customers as VinFast will bear all risks of quality and battery life and if the battery receives charge below 70 percent, the same can be exchanged for a new battery. Battery charging can be done at the owner’s homes or at VinFast charging stations. 15 minutes of charge will allow for a travel distance of 180 kms.
      VinFast is going about setting up fast charging stations in Vietnam. The company targets around 40,000 electric car charging points in 63 provinces and cities by the end of this year.
      Vinfast Electric Car
      Global Automotive Brand
      VinFast is set to become a global tech automobile brand. Following only 3 years of operations, since inception in 2017, the company plans three smart EV models – VF31, VF32 and VF33 and will receive orders from global markets from the end of 2021. Each of these models will come in with AI and sport state of the art features and will mark an important milestone for the company in an endeavor to become a global smart EV manufacturer. More

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      in Electric Cars

      China’s Mini Electric Car Overtakes Tesla Model 3 – Becomes Best Selling EV

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      Wuling Hong Guang Electric CarChinese automaker Wuling Motors sold over 56,000 Hong Guang Mini EVs in the first two months of 2021
      China is not just the biggest car market but also the biggest consumer of electric vehicles (EVs) in the world. This is the reason why Tesla, world’s most popular EV brand, has a lion’s share of its business coming from China. However, Chinese auto brands are now slowly catching up with the American EV giant in their own backyard.
      Sales In January, February 2021
      In a recent development, Wuling Hong Guang Mini EV has trumped Tesla’s Model 3 electric sedan as the highest-selling EV for the months of January and February. This is no small feat considering Model 3 is the best-selling electric car across the globe. As per reports, a total of 36,000 units of the micro electric hatchback have been sold cumulatively in January 2021.
      Wuling Hong Guang Electric Car
      In comparison, 21,500 units of Model 3 were sold during the same period. For February 2021, the numbers stood at just over 20,000 units for the Chinese micro hatch while the American brand was able to retail just under 13,700 units of Model 3.
      Despite being inferior in terms of performance, battery capacity and range to Tesla’s electric sedan, the mini EV ticks the right boxes with respect to convenience and affordability in comparison to its American arch nemesis.
      Wuling Hong Guang Electric Car
      Hong Guang Mini EV Specs
      Hong Guang Mini EV is currently retailed at a price of CNY 28,800 (approximately INR 3.20 lakh). The car is claimed to provide a range of 170km on a single charge while it can clock a top speed of 100 kmph.
      Wuling Hong Guang Electric Car
      Power is obtained from a single electric motor which delivers an output of 17.4 bhp and 85 Nm of peak torque. In terms of dimensions, it measures 115 inches long, 59 inches wide, and about 64 inches tall. It offers a wheelbase of 76.4 inches and tips the weighing scales at just 665kg. Despite its ultra compact dimension, the carmaker claims that it can seat four people at ease.
      Tesla Model 3 Specs
      On the other hand, Tesla Model 3 measures 185 inches in length, 73 inches in width and 57 inches in height. It offers a wheelbase of 113 inches and weighs around 1,587kg. On a single charge, Model 3 could run up to 423km. The base variant of Model 3 carries a price tag of USD 40,000 (equivalent to INR 28.93 lakh). Tesla offers three powertrain options on Model 3 namely Standard Plus, Long Range and Performance. The latter two are offered with a dual-motor all-wheel-drive setup.
      For reference, Wuling is a subsidiary brand of a joint venture between US auto giant General Motors and China’s state-owned SAIC Motor. Tesla is also planning to bring Model 3 to India later this year as a completely built unit (CBU) which is expected to carry a price tag of Rs 60 lakh (ex-showroom). More

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      Hero MotoCorp Price Hike Up To Rs 2,500 – Splendor, Xpulse, Maestro, HF Deluxe

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      Hero SplendorPrice revision announced on Hero MotoCorp two wheelers wef April 1, 2021
      At the fag end of FY21, one is left with no choice but to look back on the year that’s gone by. Last year this time, people were just waking up to Covid-19 pandemic. With it came a lockdown. Stringent norms meant for the first time ever, the auto industry collectively sold no vehicles in April 2020. Production and sales were at nought, and movement of people was restricted to only emergencies.
      Since then, a lot has changed. Step by step businesses have inched their way back. And come April 2021, similar to most manufacturers, Hero MotoCorp is revising the ex-sh price of its motorcycles and scooters. Price hike comes in effect on April 1, 2021.
      Price hike of upto 2.5k
      Keeping in mind Hero’s wide product portfolio, price increase across the two-wheeler range will be up to Rs 2500. Exact hike varies depending on model/variant, and specific market. Price of best selling Hero products like Splendor, Passion, Maestro, HF Deluxe, Xpulse, etc – will also be increased.
      Hero MotoCorp attributes the upward revision to partially offset impact of increased commodity costs. The company has accelerated its cost savings program. This is turn ensures minimal impact on the customer.
      Hero Destini and Maestro – 100 Million Edition
      FY22 price revision
      Manufacturers have had to tread carefully in the quarter ending March 2021. Following a largely inactive Q1, it’s only in Q2 FY21 that business were slowly able to bob their head above the surface. The October to December quarter saw much activity considering traditional purchases during the festive season.
      When the previous fiscal came to an end, companies were in a transition phase to BS6 compliant vehicles. The deadline for this was April 1, 2020. And that transition wasn’t the smoothest owing to Covid-19 pandemic related lockdown restrictions.
      Luckily though, there has been an uptick in conversations related to the need of private commuter vehicles keeping in mind safety. Keeping in mind Hero MotoCorp’s ability to make sales of 5 lakh units on any given month look like a cakewalk, it seems its business as usual.
      For 2021, this is the second public price revision announcement from Hero MotoCorp. The first again by design was made as we stepped into 2021. As is customary, new manufacturing year vehicles warrant a price hike at the start of each year. At the time, price revisions were made to the extent of 1,500 bucks depending on model and state of sales. In theory, this means a purchase decision deferred by 3 months can prove to be dearer by 4 grands for a prospective Hero customer. And this will not be the last of it. More

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      in Bike

      2021 Bajaj Pulsar 220F New Colours – Moon White, Matte Black

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      2021 Bajaj Pulsar 220F White Colour. Credit – Jet WheelsWith its updated graphics, 2021 Bajaj Pulsar 220F gets sportier and more aggressive
      Bajaj is in the process of updating its bestselling Pulsar range in line with evolving customer needs and market dynamics. The basic idea is to introduce cosmetic enhancements, which will make Pulsar range more attractive to customers. The latest to get these updates is Pulsar 220F, one of the bestsellers in its class.
      As may be recalled, Bajaj had earlier introduced updates in Pulsar 150 and Pulsar 180. These updated motorcycles have started reaching dealerships and official launch is expected soon. It is likely that prices may be increased slightly for 2021 Pulsar models. Prices will be announced by the company at the time of launch.
      2021 Bajaj Pulsar 220F Moon White Colour
      2021 Bajaj Pulsar 220F Matte Black
      If we talk about existing 220F, it is offered in colour options of Black Blue and Black Red. For 2021 Pulsar 220F, Bajaj has introduced new colour options. One of these is Matte Black, which is a combo of black and red.
      While the new colour shades look similar to existing ones, the overall look and feel of the motorcycle has undergone a significant change. That’s because the graphics have been completely revamped and their placement has also been updated.
      2021 Bajaj Pulsar 220F Matte Black. Image – Jet Wheels
      In 2021 Pulsar 220F, the graphics cover a significant portion of the fuel tank. In addition, the contrasting shades of red have been introduced on the headlight cowl as well. The updated graphics can also be seen on engine cowl, front fender, and rear tail section. Colour coded alloy wheel decals are quite the same as earlier.
      2021 Bajaj Pulsar 220F
      2021 Pulsar 220F also gets faux carbon fibre cues on the front fender, side panels, engine cowl and rear tail section. Overall, the updated motorcycle has a blacked-out profile. This is evident in the blacked-out engine, handlebar, alloy wheels, exhaust and heat shield, and suspension.
      2021 Bajaj Pulsar 220F Moon White
      This colour combo gets relatively more chaotic, as there are three contrasting shades vying for attention. Against a white background that’s visible on the fuel tank, fairing and tail section, the motorcycle utilizes red and black graphics. The design and placement of the graphics is the same as that of Matte Black version. The underside is completely blacked out as well.
      [embedded content]
      2021 Bajaj Pulsar 220F will continue to use the same engine as earlier. The 220cc, oil cooled Twin Spark, DTS-i FI engine is capable of generating 20.4 PS of max power and 18.55 Nm of peak torque. It is mated to a 5-speed gearbox. Most other mechanicals such as suspension, brakes, and electricals will be the same as earlier. More

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      in Bike

      New Yezdi Or Jawa Scrambler Test Mule Spied – RE Hunter, CB350RS Rival

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      New Yezdi or Jawa Scrambler on testThe crank case design of the engine is remarkable similar to that of the Yezdi RoadKing
      An interesting new camouflaged prototype of a retro-classic scrambler was spotted testing along the Pune to Nashik highway. While the identity of the test mule was concealed, there are some strong clues which point towards it being the upcoming Yezdi motorcycle under Classic Legends. It could also be the Jawa Scrambler that is currently in the works.
      Is it a new Yezdi motorcycle?
      We all know that Classic Legends, a part of Mahindra, is working on reviving BSA and Yezdi brands after bringing back the venerable Jawa nameplate to life. With added support from Mahindra in terms of hiring new personnel both in India and abroad to support the projects, Classic Legends’ medium term plans seem to be afoot at a brisk pace.
      New Yezdi or Jawa Scrambler on test
      When Classic Legends derived the new Jawa Motorcycles from the Mahindra Mojo platform, particular care was taken to replicate the brand’s vintage design traits including the crankcase. In the same fashion, the test mule which was spied recently, although devoid of production spec body panels, does feature a crankcase which is pretty similar to the yesteryear’s Yezdi RoadKing.
      Design
      The prototype is still far away from being production ready but we can see that it is progressing towards a scrambler body style. The cantilevered tailpiece, the tyres, riding posture and the general minimalist approach are expected to be carried forward to the final version as well.
      Engine casing resembles Yezdi
      We also expect the motorcycle to be equipped with modern features like LED taillight, a digital console (at least partially digital) and dual-channel ABS. From what we can see, the motor is a liquid-cooled unit with twin-silencers.
      New Yezdi or Jawa Scrambler on test
      The exhaust canister is still work in progress, but the configuration reminds us of the first iteration of Mojo. The new Yezdi motorcycle’s displacement should be around 300 cc. Power is estimated to be in the same ballpark as the Jawa siblings – around 27 to 30 hp.
      Market positioning
      Yezdi brand still evokes a strong sense of nostalgia among the Indian motorcycle enthusiasts. The new motorcycle will benefit from the lessons Classic Legends learnt from the execution of its Jawa projects. The upcoming motorcycle, from the looks of it, is expected to be positioned as a sportier alternative to the Jawa models. Competition will come from the likes of newly launched Honda CB350RS and the upcoming Royal Enfield Hunter 350.
      Classic Legends is also working on reviving BSA, yet another long forgotten two wheeler brand that has a strong potential in the current times. While Mahindra could not make the Mojo work commercially, it surely has found a way to extract the untapped potential of the platform through Classic Legends’ business model. More

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      Hero Destini 125 Platinum Edition Launch Price Rs 72k – Activa 125 Rival

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      2021 Hero Destini 125 Platinum EditionThe special edition Destini 125 gets new matte black colour theme with contrast plastic panels and chrome embellishments
      Hero Motocorp has been on a special edition offensive of late as it crossed an important production milestone of 100 million two wheelers. In addition to an array of special edition models commemorating this milestone, the Indian motorcycle and scooter giant also have been introducing other special editions to keep its product lineup fresh and relevant.
      Hero Destini 125 Platinum Edition
      The Hero Destini 125 Platinum Edition has been launched at INR 72,050 (ex-showroom, Delhi). In comparison, Honda Activa 125 alloy wheel variant is priced from Rs 74,198. The Platinum Edition adopts a snazzy matte black and chrome theme with contrast brown plastic panels and seat cover with Platinum hot stamping.

      Hero Destini 125
      Price Rs, Ex-Delhi

      Drum Brake
      66,960

      Alloys
      70,450

      Platinum Edition
      72,050

      100 Million Edition
      72,250

      In addition to the usual chrome applique on the apron, the special edition scooter also features chrome finished rear view mirrors, muffler protector, fender stripe and handlebar end weights. The black alloy wheels now get sleek white rim tapes.
      Feature highlights of the 125 cc automatic scooter includes LED guide lamps, sheet metal body, 3D premium badging, side stand indicator, digital analog instrument console, and service due reminder. The Platinum edition of the Destini 125 comes after the Pleasure+ Platinum received good response from the customers. The enhancements are purely cosmetic and there is no mechanical change whatsoever.
      2021 Hero Destini 125 Platinum Edition
      Specifications at a glance
      The Hero Destini 125 Platinum edition continues to employ the brand’s 125 cc air-cooled fuel-injected motor that also serves the Maestro 125. The motor is tuned to deliver 9 hp and 10.4 Nm of torque. Gearbox is a conventional CVT unit. The scooter also benefits from Hero’s i3S Idle stop-start system which enhances the fuel efficiency.
      2021 Hero Destini 125 Platinum Edition
      The Hero Destini 125 competes with the likes of Suzuki Access 125 and Yamaha’s entire 125 cc scooter range. Hero’s extensive network presence and a proven powertrain with start-stop technology are its key selling points.
      The Hero Destini 125 is the second best selling scooter in the company’s portfolio after the Pleasure. In February 2021, the product in question clocked a YoY growth of 64% at 12,031 units sold. With the launch of both 100 Millionth and Platinum special editions, the figures are expected to witness a considerable bump in the month of March.
      2021 Hero Destini 125 Platinum Edition
      As far as Hero Motocorp’s overall sales performance is concerned, the company finished last month with a near flat growth compared to February 2020. However, with market showing signs of recovery, things are expected to get better in the coming months.
      The two wheeler industry is taking a sharp turns towards electric mobility and the market is flooded with several startups which are leading the way. It is high time for OEMs to quit the wait-and-watch game and jump in the field if they want to stay competitive in long term. We hope to see Hero Motocorp take a significant step in this direction this year. More

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      Triumph Electric Motorcycle Prototype Project TE-1 Sketches Revealed

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      Triumph Electric Motorcycle Prototype – Project TE-1The Triumph TE-1 project’s innovative AC motor produces 180 hp and weights only 10 kg
      Back in May 2019, Triumph Motorcycles announced that it is working on an electric sportsbike project called TE-1 as a part of a joint research project funded by the Office For Zero Emission Vehicles, Government of the UK. Fast forward to the present day, phase 2 of the 4-phase project has reached completion, and the British marque has unveiled the electric powertrain prototype in addition to design sketches of the Triumph TE-1 electric motorcycle.
      Triumph TE-1 – An Overview
      The Triumph TE-1 project is being developed in collaboration with Williams Advanced Engineering, Integral Powertrain Ltd, and WMG of University of Warwick. The project is is a part of Innovate UK program run by the government, has already exceeded the targets set by the UK Automotive Council for 2025.
      Triumph Electric Motorcycle Prototype
      The phase 2 involves developing and testing the critical components of the motorcycle such as the battery, motor and vehicle control units. The end of phase 3 will involve realizing a full functional prototype of the motorcycle which will be used in phase 4 for final validation process.
      Puny Yet Powerful AC Motor
      While detailed specifications of the powertrain are still under wraps, we know that the new innovative AC motor developed by Integral Powertrain’s e-Division weights only 10 kg and produces a staggering 180 hp (130 kW), making it one of the best units in the motorcycle business in terms of power density. The company has worked on integrating the motor and inverter into a single unit so as to improve packaging and reduce mass.
      Triumph Electric Motorcycle Prototype
      Compact Battery Pack
      Williams Advanced Engineering spearheaded the development of the Triumph TE-1 project’s battery module, battery management system and vehicle control unit. The system is heavily optimized for mass, performance, ideal location of center of gravity to enable sharp handling, and ease of recharging. The performance specifications of the battery is still under wraps but Williams says that the unit offers the best-in-class power and energy density, and has been successfully validated on test bench.
      Triumph Electric Motorcycle Prototype
      Advanced Modelling and Simulation
      WMG at the University of Warwick brings its academic might to this joint research and development program. The university team has been working on model-based engineering techniques to aid the whole development process.
      During phase 1 various models simulating the behaviors of motor, battery, control systems, etc., were developed to aid in selection and sizing of right kind of critical systems. The fidelity of the models of each sub-systems were improved during the second phase to aid the partners in optimizing the performance of the high-performance pure electric powertrain. The university also realized a Hardware-in-loop (HIL) test rig to validate the motorcycle’s various control units.
      [embedded content]
      Triumph’s Contribution
      Triumph Motorcycles focuses on developing a new chassis and rear sub-frame to underpin the modern electric motorcycle in addition to coming up with a fitting design. The company also developed the fully digital colour instrument console and software for the vehicle control unit by integrating functional safety measures that is required for the final version to be homologated for road use.
      The styling is an evolution of the brand’s street fighter design with the quintessential two-piece headlamp design. The Triumph TE-1 project is expected to be completed sometime in 2023. More details are expected to be released as the joint research project reaches the end of phase 3. More

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      Ather 450X Electric Scooter Launched In Jaipur – Bangalore Deliveries Restart

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      Ather 450X Electric ScooterAther’s new retail outlet in the pink city is being opened in association with Akhand Distributors
      Ather Energy continues with their expansion spree. Following the new experience center in Pune at the end of February, an Ather Space will open in early April in Jaipur.
      Ather Energy Experience Centre will be opened at BL Tower-2 on Tonk Road near Durgapura Flyover in Jaipur. This marks the foray of the electric scooter maker into Rajasthan and Ather 450X and 450 Plus e-scooters will now be available at this new dealership.
      Test rides have already commenced and deliveries are set to be initiated by early April 2021. Ather Energy aims to be present in as many as 40 Indian cities by the end of this year.
      Ather Grid by Month End
      Along with the setting up of the new dealership in Jaipur, Ather Energy will be installing fast charging points across key spots in the city. Targeting 3-4 outlets by the end of this month, Ather Energy hopes to double this count by the end of 2021. With around 120 public fast charging points across Indian cities, the company seeks to partner with hosts including cafes, restaurants, tech parks, malls and gyms for easy accessibility of EV owners.
      Ather Electric Scooter In Jaipur
      In Jaipur, the Ather 450X and 450 Plus retail at Rs. 1,59,524 and Rs. 1,40,514 respectively. The Bengaluru-based electric vehicle manufacturer is also offering a buyback scheme to customers who will be assured of a guaranteed cash back of Rs.85,000 on the Ather 450X on completion of a 3 year period. The e-scooters are also offered on lease at Rs.3,394 per month.
      Ather 450X e-scooter Specs
      Ather Energy currently retails the 450X and 450 Plus e-scooters. The earlier two models, 340 and 450 has been discontinued. The company has noted increased demand for the 450X which is India’s quickest and smartest e-scooter. It is presented in three colour options of Grey, Green and White.
      The 450X gets a 4G SIM and Bluetooth connectivity via which users can access phone calls and music on the 7 inch touchscreen dashboard. The dashboard comes in with colour depth of 16M and a Snapdragon Quad-Core processor. Android Open Source gives access to Google map navigation, on board diagnostics along with Over-the-air updates, Auto Indicator off and Guide-me-home lights.
      Ather Electric Scooter Deliveries Restart In Bangalore
      Ather 450X e-scooter comes in with a 6 kW PMSM motor along with a 2.9 kWh lithium-ion battery pack. It receives four riding modes namely Eco, Ride, Sport and Warp and claims a range of 85kms in Eco Mode. In the warp mode, the scooter can accelerate from 0 to 40 km/h in 3.3 seconds, thus making it the fastest scooter in the 125 cc category. Top speed is at 80 km/h.
      Akhand Distributors Pvt Ltd, are involved in various businesses in retail and wholesale distribution and in retail of Telecom, CE and FMCG and Lifestyle products. Apart from Rajashtan, the company has a presence various other states of Haryana, Madhya Pradesh and Gujarat. More