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    • 125 Shares139 Views

      in Motor News

      Automotive Startup Canoo Unveils a Pair of Electric Delivery Vans

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      Electric vehicle startup Canoo unveils two electric delivery vans and announces a third is on the way.
      The vans, which compare in size to a wider Honda Odyssey and a wider Kia Niro, will have up to 450 cubic feet of cargo space and an EPA-estimated range of up to 230 miles.
      Early models will be available in 2022, with full production coming in 2023.
      While consumer EVs are where the fun is, fleet and business EVs will do a lot to reduce carbon emissions and when done correctly will actually save companies money, since EVs require less maintenance to keep on the road. Electric-vehicle startup Canoo is targeting that demographic as it unveils its upcoming delivery vehicle lineup.

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      Canoo Is Microbus-Style EV You Subscribe to

      The startup is offering two different variants of its futuristic-looking electric vans, which will be priced starting at $33,000. The MPDV1, about the same overall length as the Kia Niro but about seven inches wider, has 200 cubic feet of cargo space. The taller MPDV2, roughly the same overall length as a Honda Odyssey but about eight inches wider, will have 450 cubic feet of space. Both will be powered by a single motor on the front axle outputting 200 horsepower and 236 pound-feet of torque. The MPDV1 will be outfitted with battery packs from 40.0 kWh to 80.0 kWh with EPA estimated ranges from 130 to 230 miles. The MPDV2 will get the same pack sizes, but with EPA estimated ranges from 90 miles to 190 miles likely due to the increased size of this vehicle.

      Canoo

      According to Canoo, DC fast charging on the 80.0-kWh battery pack will take 28 minutes from 20 to 80 percent. Since these vehicles will likely be roaming cities picking up and delivering packages, range is less of an issue than in a consumer EV.

      Canoo

      Canoo states that limited availability of the vehicle will begin in 2022, with full production planned for 2023. Canoo has already shown off a passenger van, and a third commercial model, the MPDV3, will be launched later and will likely be in the Class 3 truck category. As is the fashion for newly announced vehicles these days, the company is taking refundable $100 deposits to order one of the delivery vans.
      This content is created and maintained by a third party, and imported onto this page to help users provide their email addresses. You may be able to find more information about this and similar content at piano.io More

    • 138 Shares189 Views

      in Bike

      Bajaj Pulsar 125 Helps Bajaj Beat Honda In 100-125cc Motorcycle Sales

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      Pulsar 125 is the highest selling Pulsar model today. Image – Auto Travel Tech
      Hero MotoCorp continues to lead sales due to its extensive lineup in the budget-centric segment of motorcycles

      2020 was plagued with numerous hindrances. The economy of the country was facing a slowdown when society was hit with the pandemic of Covid-19 earlier this year. Automotive sector, like any other industry, was also affected quite adversely and numbers are there to prove.
      For the better part of three months, automotive sales were seriously hampered by the restrictions induced due to novel coronavirus and this could be seen in the overall sales in between months of April and November this year. Although sales have picked up in the last three months, the closure of businesses did create a noticeable impact.
      Hero MotoCorp continues to lead segment
      Sales of the entry-level segment (100-125cc) of motorcycles which are one of the most affordable two-wheeler spaces also saw a considerable decline. While Hero MotoCorp continued to lead charts in this segment, it saw a decline of over 9 lakh from the same period last year. Last year in between April and November, Hero sold 41,67,645 bikes of this segment whereas this year it was able to sell only 33,30,889 bikes.
      Hero MotoCorp has the strongest presence in the two-wheeler segment of the Indian automotive market thanks to an extensive retail and service network across the country. Hero currently has five offerings in the 100-125cc category which include Splendor Plus, Super Splendor, Passion Pro, HF Deluxe and Glamour.
      Motorcycle Sales Apr-Nov 2020 vs 2019
      Bajaj, Honda also witness downfall
      The highlight here is that Bajaj Auto has pipped Honda Two-wheelers India to take second position in this segment after the former retailed 7,96,123 units between April and November this year while the latter sold 7,62,726 units this year. During the same period last year, the Indian brand retailed 9,55,020 bikes in this space while the Japanese manufacturer sold 9,73,837 bikes.
      Honda and Bajaj have four offerings each in this segment. The former has Shine, CD 110 Dream, Livo and SP 125. While the latter offers CT100, CT110, Platina 100, Platina 110 H-Gear and Pulsar 125. It was thanks to the Pulsar 125, that Bajaj has managed to beat Honda.
      TVS Motor lags way behind
      The fourth spot was taken by TVS Motor as it was able to retail 2,09,359 bikes between April and November this year in the 100-125cc segment. During the same period last year, the Hosur-based bikemaker retailed 3,12,834 motorcycles. The primary reason for TVS to lag so behind in sales is that it doesn’t have a single offering in the 100-125cc category of motorcycles.
      The company has recently trademarked the name ‘Fiero’ which is speculated to be used for its upcoming 125cc bike. TVS, on the other hand, offers only three motorcycles in this segment namely Sport, Radeon and City Plus. it has yet to upgrade Victor to its mandatory BS6 emission upgrade. More

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      in Motor News

      Alfa Romeo Announces Pricing and Simplified Trim Levels for 2021 Giulia and Stelvio

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      Alfa Romeo has reduced the number of trim levels available on the 2021 Stelvio and 2021 Giulia from seven to four.
      The entry-level Giulia Sprint will start at $40,745 and the entry-level Stelvio Sprint will start at $42,745, with the top-end Quadrifoglio models priced at $76,345 and $82,345 respectively.
      2021 Giulias and Stelvios are arriving in North American showrooms now, according to Alfa Romeo.
      Navigating options and trim levels of a vehicle can be difficult when an automaker gets a little too overzealous with variants of a vehicle. It also makes manufacturing a bit of a nightmare as the production lines have to account for dozens of different options one more than a few trim levels. One or both of those reasons are likely why Alfa Romeo has announced it has trimmed the number of trim levels for the 2021 Giulia sedan and Stelvio SUV.

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      For 2021, Alfa Romeo will offer four trim levels: Sprint, Ti, Ti Sport, and the sportiest version, Quadrifoglio. The base Sprint model is named in honor of the 1954 Giulietta Sprint. As for what’s available on the rebranded entry-level Stelvio and Giulia, Alfa notes both vehicles will receive the same 280-hp turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine that’s in the current models, plus an 8.8-inch infotainment display, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto capability, Brembo front brakes, leather seats, and forward collision warning with full-speed stop.

      2021 Alfa Romeo Giulia Quadrifoglio.
      FCA

      Further consolidating its lineup, Alfa has also taken two driver assistance packages and combined them into one, called Active Assist I. The Ti models of both Stelvio and Giulia also get a standard dual-pane sunroof. The Ti Sport now receives a limited-slip differential, dark exhaust, sport rear diffuser, and 20-inch aluminum wheels. The Quadrifoglio’s standard features and powerful 505-hp twin-turbo V-6 are unchanged.
      Four new colors are available: Ocra GT Junior, Rosso GTA, Rosso Villa d’Este, and the stunning Verde Montreal.
      The Giulia’s base model, the Sprint, now starts at $40,745, a $350 increase from the base 2020 Giulia, while the top Quadrifoglio model is priced at $76,345. All-wheel drive costs $2000 extra on all trim levels but the Quadrifoglio, on which it’s standard.
      The Stelvio starts at $42,745, only a $50 increase from the 2020 model, and the top Quadrifoglio costs $82,345. All-wheel drive costs $2000 extra on the Stelvio Sprint and is standard on the other trim levels.
      Adding AWD to any of the Giulia trims and Stelvio Sprint will cost an additional $2000. The rest of the Stelvio trim levels offer all-wheel-drive standard. Alfa Romeo says the 2021 Giulia and Stelvio are currently arriving in North American showrooms.

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    • 125 Shares99 Views

      in Bike

      Ather 450X Electric Scooter Delivery Schedule Announced For All Cities

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      Ather 450x Electric Scooter
      After launching 450X in several new cities, Ather Energy has shared delivery schedule for those locations

      Some of the new cities that were recently added include Mumbai, Ahmedabad and Pune. The company already has presence in Bengaluru, Chennai and Hyderabad. By end of next year, the company has plans to make 450X available in 27 cities.
      City-wise delivery schedule and other updates
      Customers in Bengaluru, Chennai and Hyderabad have already started receiving Series 1 and Grey Ather 450X. Buyers in Bengaluru and Chennai will start getting deliveries of White and Green Ather 450X later this month. In Pune, deliveries are expected to commence this weekend. However, the colour of the units that will be delivered is yet to be revealed. Payments are open across Mumbai, Pune and Hyderabad.
      Talking about developments in specific cities, Hyderabad will soon be getting a company-owned experience centre. This is currently being constructed. A temporary facility is available close to the upcoming experience centre, where interested users can take a test ride. Hyderabad already has 10 Ather Grid points and more are in the works.
      In Mumbai, the company’s experience centre is being constructed in Khar. However, test rides are already available at some temporary locations. Deliveries in Mumbai are expected to commence later this month.
      Ather 450x Electric Scooter delivery schedule in all new cities. Credit – Ketul Tikekar
      Up north, deliveries in Delhi are expected to commence sometime in March next year. The company is yet to finalize a retail partner for the city. However, test rides will commence this week in Delhi at a temporary location in Saket. Customers in Delhi will get additional subsidy of Rs 14,500 in addition to Rs 29,000, which is available under FAME-II scheme.
      In Kolkata, deliveries are expected to commence in January next year. The company is working to finalize a retail partner and select an appropriate location. In Ahmedabad, deliveries have already commenced and test rides are being provided seven days a week. The city has also received three Ather Grid points.
      In southern India, test rides have begun in Kochi at a temporary location close to Gold Souk Grande. The city will be getting an experience centre that is expected to become operational by next month. Customers in Coimbatore, Calicut and Kozhikode will start getting deliveries in Q1, 2021.
      Ather 450X tech specs
      Ather 450X is the successor to Ather 450 that has been discontinued. Ather 450X comes with a range of upgrades including superior performance, faster charging and higher standby time. The scooter utilizes a 2.61 kWh battery pack that comprises 21700-type Li-ion cells. Max power and torque is 8 hp and 26 Nm, respectively. True range is 85 km on a single charge. 450X comes with fast charging that allows users to load 15 km in 10 minutes. More

    • 113 Shares149 Views

      in Electric Cars

      Daimler Plans To Launch First Electric Truck In India

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      Image for reference
      India could soon gets its first ever electric truck – Thanks to Daimler

      In a first, Daimler India Commercial Vehicle (DICV) is prepping up for the launch of an electric truck in the Indian market. The update was revealed by Union Minister, Nitin Gadkari. While electric buses are already operational here, electric trucks are still to make their debut.
      More details about Daimler’s first electric truck for India will be revealed during the ‘Future Mobility’ event, which is scheduled to be held next year. Daimler already has revealed Mercedes electric truck in Europe. It could be the same Mercedes electric range that is brought to India. Or, they can get the Fuso electric truck too.
      In international markets, Daimler currently has the light-duty Fuso eCanter electric truck. As per plans, the second-gen version of this electric truck will be launched next year. The current model can run 100 km on a single charge. Its payload carrying capacity is up to 3,200 kg.
      First mover advantage
      If DICV can execute its plans in a timely manner, it could have the first-mover advantage in the electric truck segment. As of now, most of the leading automakers in the country such as Tata Motors, Mahindra & Mahindra, Ashok Leyland, and VE Commercial Vehicles are focused on electric buses in the CV segment.
      Daimler Mercedes Electric Truck
      Some of these have already launched electric buses whereas others are in the process of developing such vehicles. There are some China based companies as well such as Beiqi Foton and BYD, who are backing India based firms to manufacture electric buses.
      Daimler’s electric truck launch will support government policies that aim to make India a hub for electric vehicle manufacturing. In the long term, the shift to electric will help the country to reduce its dependence on oil imports.
      Bullish on Indian market
      Daimler understands the potential of Indian market, which is why it has always taken an aggressive approach in terms of new product launches and technology integrations. As may be recalled, the company had earlier launched Bharat Stage 5 (BS-V) trucks even though the requirement was only for BS4. As per the government’s decision, automakers in the country have shifted directly to BS6 from BS4. The plans for an electric truck yet again reveal the company’s positive expectations from the Indian market.
      DICV’s current portfolio comprises Fuso and BharatBenz range of trucks and buses. Even though the company’s wholesale numbers were down by 36% to 14,500 units in 2019, the company has announced fresh investments worth Rs 2,277 crore. This was as per an agreement with the Tamil Nadu government signed earlier this year in May.
      DICV will be using the investments to increase commercial vehicle production at its Oragadam plant in Chennai. It is expected that around 400 jobs will be created with the expansion plan. Daimler India’s retail sales last year were 15,200 units, which is YoY de-growth of 29% in comparison to 2018. Market share in 9-ton plus category has also dipped from 6% in 2018 to 5.8% in 2019.
      Source More

    • 163 Shares169 Views

      in Bike

      Hero MotoCorp Price Hike Jan 2021 – Splendor, Passion, Destini, Maestro Dec Offers

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      Image – Mulraj Hero
      Hero MotoCorp announces price revision across its product range of MY21 motorcycles and scooters

      2020 bore witness to an unprecedentedly difficult business year owing to national lockdown relay to Covid-19 pandemic. As the year comes to a close, auto manufacturers have had important takeaways. Most managed to report an uptick in retail sales for the recently concluded festive season.
      The two-wheeler industry has done well in recent weeks. Of them, Hero MotoCorp remains the industry giant with a lead that’s unthreatened. And despite difficult circumstances, it all came together for Hero MotoCorp. In October, the company reported retail sales at over 8 lakh units.
      As 2021 approaches, one can expect all auto manufacturers to announce a range of price revisions across product portfolios. Hero MotoCorp attributes this to a steady rise in commodity costs across the spectrum, including steel, aluminium, plastics, and precious metals.
      New Prices wef Jan 01, 2021
      The manufacturer has accelerated its savings programme under Leap-2 umbrella, and continues to mitigate impact. This to reduce burden on customers, and protect company margins. To partially offset impact of commodity costs, Hero MotoCorp will increase product price by upto Rs 1,500, with effect from January 1, 2021.
      Hero Discounts Dec 2020
      Price increase will vary across models, including their best-sellers like Splendor, Passion, Deluxe, Glamour, Destini, Pleasure, Maestro and even the premium range like Xpulse, Xtreme. ‘Final price revisions will be communicated to dealers in due course,‘ said Hero MotoCorp in a regulatory filing.
      A planned price hike such as this is a yearly occurrence. Depending on variables, price hikes are announced through the year. In most cases, for individual product ranges. Start of year price hike takes into account new model year vehicles. Given the situation, one can always opt to go bargain hunting for December deals.
      With dealerships keeping a close eye on existing stock, it’s in everyones best interest to sell all current MY vehicles. More often than not, depending on availability, manufacturers curate special deals. Making price points as attractive as ever is enough to get noticed. And resultantly, maintain sales momentum.
      Hero MotoCorp 2020 December deals
      Hero MotoCorp is currently offering cash benefit of Rs 4,000 on exchange deals on purchase of Xtreme 200S, Xtreme 160R and Xpulse 200 over the fortnight. Destini 125, Maestro 125, Maestro 110 Passion Pro and Super Splendor are being offered with Rs 2,100 exchange and loyalty bonus while Hero Glamour comes with Rs 2,100 cash discount.
      It’s safe to say that deals aren’t limiting. Customers could find themselves spoilt for choice. Especially, since, discount deals are available from multiple manufacturers. Following heightened sales activity during the festive season each year owing to a sizeable number of planned purchases, December sales could always seem lacklustre. The saving grace is always the quantum of end of year discounts and offers attractive enough to get customers back into showrooms.
      This works well to ensure a strong year end, and Q4 cumulative sales. An inevitable price rise in 2021 is sometimes a good enough reason to buy that vehicle before the new year. Sales further thrived in recent months owing to flexibility in finance plans. This includes debit card bank EMI plans for two-wheeler purchases. More