News

Subterms

    More stories

    • 163 Shares189 Views

      in Electric Cars

      New Skoda Epiq Is A 4.1m Electric SUV – Is This India Bound?

      by

      New Skoda Epiq Electric CrossoverAs opposed to the current crop of EVs from the company, new Skoda Epiq is the first representation of “Modern Solid” design languageFueling the electric vehicle onslaught, Skoda is launching six new EVs by the end of 2026. For India, however, Skoda has announced a sub 4m SUV at its recent event that could spawn a full-electric counterpart at a later date. Skoda has now introduced Epiq sub compact electric crossover which may find its way to our shores.Skoda Epiq Is A 4.1m Electric SUVWhat exactly is Skoda Epiq? The company calls it a design study, rather than a concept. But in reality, Skoda Epiq looks like a near production ready prototype that is undergoing studio photoshoot for advert material. Meaning, that this design study is so practical and mature, it looks ready for production.Skoda Epiq RearTouted as “small but epic”, Skoda Epiq is the first vehicle (design study) from the brand to sport its new “Modern Solid” design language. This is slightly different to what Skoda teased at the recent event on its upcoming sub 4m SUV. Targeted starting price of this vehicle is EUR 25,000 which translates to Rs. 22.5 lakh with today’s currency exchange rates.Skoda Epiq is a 4.1m long e-crossover that could be rounded-up as an electric version of Kamiq. However, being a born electric vehicle, Skoda Epiq boasts increased practicality over Kamiq. Born electric vehicles are blessed with better space optimisation by OEMs and Epiq sports a 490L boot space, which is roughly 20% larger than Kamiq’s.Skoda Epiq DashboardHow does it look?The Modern Solid design language is fairly handsome. We are sure this design wouldn’t split any opinions if launched in India. There are sleek LED DRLs on either end of Epiq’s fascia. These DRLs are coupled with fang-like LEDs vertically arranged, giving them an inverted L-like shape. Headlights are positioned below these fangs, engulfed in a black trim.New Skoda Epiq Electric CrossoverSkoda’s typical moustache is still present, but is sleeker and a lot appealing. Lower bumper has 8 massive vertical openings that lend an interesting direction. Side profile is strong with a thick and upright C-pillar. Door handles are conventional and there are swanky aero wheels. Floating roof effect and black body cladding all-around are other notable elements.Tail lights have T-shaped LED signature and the same 8 vertical openings can be seen in rear bumper too. Skoda lettering in Red sits on the neatly sculpted tailgate proudly. Chunky roof rails and glass roof are noteworthy.New Skoda Epiq Electric CrossoverPowertrain and specsOn the inside, Skoda Epiq looks modern and minimal. There is a layered dashboard, a free-standing infotainment screen, a small digital cluster, 2-spoke steering, a few buttons below the infotainment screens and seating for five. Skoda has tastefully played with white and orange shades for striking contrast.Powertrain-wise, Skoda Epiq will be underpinned by MEB Entry platform. Only FWD drivetrain is highly likely with this vehicle. Battery size is unknown and WLTP range could be in the ballpark of 400 km. Skoda Epiq might break covers in 2025 and the exact vehicle is less likely to reach our shores. More

    • 175 Shares129 Views

      in Electric Cars

      India’s Electric Vehicle Policy in the Spotlight – Import Duty At 15% For CKD

      by

      Tesla India launch expected this yearPowering Production: India’s EV Policy and Manufacturing RequirementsThe Union Government’s E-Vehicle Policy in India could be a pivotal step towards transforming the automotive industry. This regulatory framework outlines stringent yet strategic measures. This is aimed at fostering the growth of electric vehicle (EV) manufacturing (in the years to come) within the country.One of the policy’s key features is the stipulation of a minimum investment requirement of Rs 4,150 Cr, while also eliminating any maximum investment limit. This provision encourages substantial capital infusion into the EV sector. Which of course is essential for establishing robust manufacturing facilities and infrastructure.India’s Electric Vehicle Policy MandatesThe policy mandates that manufacturing facilities must be operational within three years. Commercial production should be commencing within the same timeframe. Dedicated timelines highlight efforts at expediting the adoption and proliferation of EVs. Domestic Value Addition (DVA) emerges as another crucial aspect of the policy putting focus on the need for indigenous production. DVA targets are set at 25 percent by the 3rd year, and 50 percent by the 5th year.India’s Electric Vehicle Policy – Emission MissionThe policy imposes 15 percent custom duty on vehicles with a CIF value exceeding USD 35,000 (About Rs 30 lakhs pre duty + tax) for a duration of five years. Additionally, it outlines provisions for limited imports, capping the maximum number of permissible imports at 40,000 EVs. Annual import numbers should not be exceeding 8,000 units.To ensure commitment and compliance, investors are required to furnish bank guarantees, serving as a financial security mechanism. Failure to meet DVA and investment criteria may lead to the invocation of these bank guarantees. Thereby reinforcing accountability and adherence to the policy’s mandates.The latest announcement sets forth a comprehensive roadmap for the sustainable development of the Indian automotive industry. By striking a balance between regulatory measures and incentivising investments, it aims to propel India towards a cleaner, greener, and more technologically advanced future. To make progress, the policy needs to lay strong emphasis on fostering innovation and technological advancement within the EV sector. By encouraging research and development initiatives, one can hope for cost efficient EVs that fit into people’s purchase plans.Domestic Dynamo: Policy Looks To Energise IndustryAs it stands, the policy serves as a catalyst for job creation and skill development in the automotive sector. Establishment of manufacturing facilities and the subsequent increase in production volumes will generate employment opportunities. This would be across various skill levels, from assembly line workers to engineers specialising in electric vehicle technology.Developing the E-Vehicle Policy aligns with India’s broader economic and environmental objectives. As a signatory to international agreements, India is committed to reducing its carbon footprint, and transitioning towards more sustainable forms of transportation. The promotion of electric vehicles through this policy is aimed at achieving these targets. This is based on global dialogues that view EVs as inherently cleaner while producing fewer emissions compared to traditional internal combustion engine vehicles. More

    • 125 Shares199 Views

      in Bike

      New Yezdi Motorcycle Showcased To Dealers – Hunter 350 Rival?

      by

      New Yezdi Motorcycle ShowcasedIf priced well under Rs. 2 lakh and weigh around 180 kg, new Yezdi motorcycle showcased to dealers could emerge as a better rival to Honda and Royal Enfield offeringsIn a rather surprising turn of events, Mahindra & Mahindra owned Classic Legends has revealed a bunch of new Jawa, Yezdi and BSA motorcycles at what looks like a dealership event. At this event the stage showed a bunch of new Jawa, Yezdi and BSA motorcycles. However, only one Yezdi motorcycle has been detailed. Let’s take a look at what’s what.New Jawa and BSA Motorcycles Showcased To DealersYezdi falls under the Classic Legends Motorcycles umbrella along with Jawa and BSA. In a recent event, the company seems to have showcased a bunch of new motorcycles to a few dealers. These have a good probability of launching in the Indian market with an intent to better rival Royal Enfield and Honda.On the stage, we saw a glimpse of a large flex cut-out including a variety of BSA motorcycles. The heading on this cut-out banner read ‘Motorcycle Dreams In Motion’ and there were multiple variations of a motorcycle that looked like variations of BSA Gold Star 650. There was a concept or rendering of a bobber-style motorcycle too, that could take on Royal Enfield Shotgun 650.There were 4 Jawa and Yezdi motorcycles on stage too. One of these motorcycles seemed like a Yezdi Roadster with a stylish dual-barrel single-sided exhaust with high-quality appeal. This exhaust sorta reminded me of MV Augusta Rush or a Ducati Supersport. This motorcycle donned twin rear shock absorbers like other Jawa and Yezdi motorcycles.New Yezdi Motorcycle ShowcasedThe centre of attraction that is generating all the buzz is a red-hot Yezdi motorcycle featured in the video posted by classic_jawa. This is unlike any other Yezdi that is currently on sale and is likely to be the lightest and the most performant offering from the iconic Yezdi house. But will it bring back Road King name? That is to be seen.We say this because this motorcycle features the same chassis and powertrain as Yezdi Scrambler. We can see a slightly angular fuel tank along with similar side body panels. Front suspension is similar RSU telescopic forks with gaiters and front and rear footpegs look identical too. Like Scrambler, there is a tail tidy and a plastic rear fender.We couldn’t spot tail lights, turn indicators and number plate holders on the new Yezdi motorcycle. Production version model is likely to get a similar setup as Yezdi Scrambler. So, what are the differences? Where Scrambler had a single-piece up-swept seat, the new bike had a flatter seat.New Yezdi BikeScrambler’s twin-shock rear suspension setup is replaced with a mono-shock unit and there is a single exhaust setup as opposed to Scrambler’s dual exhaust. Scrambler’s fully digital single-pod instrument cluster has been replaced with twin pod analog cluster. Surprisingly, there is a 4-way D-pad on left switchgear, hinting digital screens present in these circular dials.Other notable changes on the new bike include alloy wheels with tubeless Pirelli tyres. In a way, Yezdi seems to be carving out a lighter road-going version of its Scrambler with less features at a lower price point. If Yezdi can strike a price point of under Rs. 2 lakh, we can see it making a big splash against Royal Enfield and Honda with a more cutting edge 334cc DOHC 4V liquid-cooled engine making 28.7 bhp and 28.2 Nm, mated to a 6-speed gearbox. More

    • 150 Shares119 Views

      in Bike

      Ola Raahi Electric Rickshaw To Be Unveiled Soon – Treo, Ape Rival

      by

      Ola electric rickshaw testing?When launched, there could be a cargo version of Ola Raahi electric rickshaw as well, to cater to growing 3W commercial vehicle segmentIndia’s leading electric mobility solutions provider, Ola Electric, is expanding its operations to incorporate CVs in the near future. The company started from operating cabs in major cities and stepped into the electric vehicle realm by buying Etergo e-scooter firm. Now, the envelope of Ola Electric’s operations will soon expand to incorporate commercial vehicles.Ola Raahi Electric Rickshaw To Be Unveiled SoonA recent report suggests that Ola Electric is just days short of unveiling its first-ever commercial vehicle. People in the know at Ola Electric  have revealed company’s future plans. This involves Ola Electric’s advancements in e-autorickshaw industry which is currently on the rise.Ola electric rickshaw testing?With Ola Electric led by the enthusiastic CEO Bhavish Aggarwal, we can expect aggressive pricing and a well executed end result. Just like Ola Electric rose to lead the electric 2W segment, there is a possibility they replicate their success in the electric 3W segment. As of now, Mahindra is the leader with about 5k units sold every month.Speaking of launch, Ola Electric is likely to unveil its maiden electric auto rickshaw by the end of this month. At the launch, Raahi name will be finalised for this vehicle. As of now, there are no name trademarks filed by Ola Electric for the word “Raahi”. This product has been under development for years, as part of Ola’s larger scheme of things.Ola Raahi Electric Rickshaw Patent FiledSometime back, Ola had patented its upcoming electric rickshaw in India. The most interesting aspect of this patent was that it featured solar panels on the roof to extend driving range. At launch we will get to know if Ola stuck with that design or ditched it for cost efficiency.Ola Raahi Electric Rickshaw Patent InfoIn addition, there may be a cargo version of Ola Raahi electric rickshaw, to appeal to a broader audience. Rickshaw version could feature seating for three passengers, along with a driver at the front. Weather protection might be a standard. Also, Ola Electric’s Gigafactory is likely to be operational in the coming months.State of electric 3W industryIn the year 2023, a total of 5,80,000 electric 3W vehicles were sold in India. A number that increased YoY by 66% over sales figures in the year 2022. Statistics also show that more than 50% of total 3W vehicle sales in that time period packed electric powertrains over ICE powertrains.If we take electric 3W vehicle sales numbers from February 2024, the segment accounted for a total of 53,298 units with 54.45% MoM growth and a slight 7.33% YoY decline. Currently, Mahindra is the leading electric 3W industry with an 8.78% market share. Other leading players in this space are YC, Saera, Piaggio, Dilli EV and Bajaj. TVS is keen on joining this race, with King Electric and King Kargo Electric names already trademarked.Source More

    • 163 Shares119 Views

      in Bike

      Ather Electric Scooter Battery Drop Test From 40 Ft – Does It Survive?

      by

      Ather Rizta Battery DroppedAther is getting ready to launch a new electric scooter next month – Ahead of that, they us battery drop test of this new scooterElectric 2W mobility solutions in India have been on the rise. Many OEMs are springing up to cater to this increasing demand. Ather is one of those OEMs and is currently one of the best-selling electric 2W vehicle manufacturers in India. The company’s upcoming Rizta family scooter will feature over-engineered batteries as demonstrated in a video.Ather Rizta Battery Dropped From 40 FeetNot only is the upcoming Rizta Ather’s first family scooter, but it will be the most affordable Ather scooter as well. Up until Rizta, Ather was primarily focused on catering to enthusiasts and tech-savvy thrill seekers. Now, expanding their portfolio to cater family oriented scooters will expand their appeal and sales envelope.Ather Rizta Battery DroppedCurrently TVS iQube is India’s best-selling family electric scooter and is in Ather Rizta’s immediate crosshair. Also, Ola S1 X+ is another offering that Rizta will compete with. Folks at Ather Energy have an immaculate sense of humour and have been engaging in innovative and amusing strategies.Ather Energy co-founder Swapnil Jain took to social media posting a new video about their upcoming Rizta scooter. Their recent innovative strategy involves dropping their battery pack from a height of 40 feet. Surely, this is an overkill of a demonstration. However, the witty way Ather Energy demonstrates their engineering capability is always entertaining and confidence-inspiring for the intended audience.Crane At 40 FeetIn the video, we can see Shreyas Seethapathy operating a mobile crane held at 40 feet from the ground. From this height, Ather Rizta battery is dropped with a loud thud. As shown in the video by Ather, the battery remains “rock solid”.Shreyas loves destroying batteries and he comes up with his own crazy ways of testing them. Last time he was seen baking his battery eating ice-cream. This time he saw a crane and got excited and wanted to test strength of our batteries.So he decided to drop it from 40 feet.… pic.twitter.com/a2LB78WT2e— Swapnil Jain (@swapniljain89) March 12, 2024What does this test signify?This demonstration signifies that Ather’s batteries are designed to withstand any or most impacts a user can face on the road in real-world conditions. Impacts from stones, illogical speed bumps, direct impacts from other objects and many more. Ather’s battery casings are built with high-pressure die-cast aluminium tech.The main takeaway from this battery drop test is that if Ather’s battery can withstand an overkill 40 feet drop, it is capable of withstanding any or most real-world impacts. In case of drops, the impact force is distributed across the battery and is not the same as a concentrated impact from sharp objects or nail penetrations.In a previous video aired last year, Shreyas Seethapathy was seen eating a tub of ice cream while sitting on an autoclave baking one of their battery packs. Ather Rizta scooter will be unveiled at Ather’s Community Day on April 6th, 2024. Practicality is the mantra here and Rizta will feature a large and accommodating seat too. AtherStack 6 OTA update and a smart accessory are other anticipated launches from Ather on Community Day. More

    • 113 Shares179 Views

      in Electric Cars

      Mahindra XUV.e9 Full Screen Dashboard and Frunk Area Spotted

      by

      Mahindra XUV.e9 ful dash touchscreen and Frunk AreaWhen compared to the flamboyant interiors of BE range of electric SUVs, XUV.e range share most of their interiors with XUV700 ICE vehicleAfter the first wave of electric cars in the form of e2O, e2O Plus and e-Verito, Mahindra has re-entered electric mobility business with XUV400. But the company has huge ambitions of dedicated BEVs and we will witness many born electric cars. Mahindra XUV.e9 is among them and recent spy shots reveal more information about this upcoming coupe SUV.Mahindra XUV.e9 Massive Frunk Area SpottedOne appreciable trait of a dedicated electric vehicle is that there will be quite a lot of space under the bonnet owing to platform optimization. On a derived electric vehicle most of the components are shared with their ICE counterpart and relocating them requires extensive re-engineering, which could prove a costly affair.Mahindra XUV.e9 InteriorsThe same is true with Mahindra’s EVs as well. XUV400 is a derived electric vehicle sharing most of its components with XUV300. Hence there is no Frunk (Front Trunk) or a Froot (Front Boot). The same can’t be said about Mahindra’s new wave of dedicated EVs in the form of XUV.e8, XUV.e9, BE.05, BE.07 and BE.09 or the XUV 7XO, XUV 5XO, XUV 3XO, XUV 1XO.BE.05, XUV.e8 and XUV.e9 have been spotted testing already. In the recent spy shots of XUV.e9 test mules credited to APK Kavaskar, we can get a sneak peek under the bonnet. We can see generous empty space that Mahindra can engineer into a Frunk or Froot.Mahindra XUV.e9 FrunkWe can spot a few rubber sealants on the bonnet hinting that Mahindra is thinking of implementing a small front cargo area. Looking at this area, we would reckon that Mahindra will implement a shallow, but wide and large Frunk or Froot with neat plastic trim. This particular vehicle seems to be an AWD unit and there will be more Frunk or Froot area with RWD model.Mahindra XUV.e9 FrunkWhat else can we deduce?Other notable attributes we can spot on this XUV.e9 test mule are twin hydraulic bonnet struts. XUV700 doesn’t get hydraulic bonnet struts even today, which is a shocking omission considering Duster offered it for almost half the price. We can’t ignore the massive road presence of this vehicle.The Coupe SUV shape grabs a lot of eyeballs, lending a stylish and sophisticated appeal. In one of our previous spy videos, we can see the massive triple-screen layout on the dashboard along with similar AC vents to XUV700. There is a new two-spoke steering wheel too and Mahindra could implement an illuminated logo like revealed in concepts.Mahindra XUV Coupe full dash length touchscreen spotted pic.twitter.com/nwsqF52MOP— RushLane (@rushlane) March 13, 2024Other notable attributes include large wheels that might be at least 19-inchers, Goodyear tyres, flush door handles, rear door handles on C-pillars, massive rear LED tail light signature, and large fascia with massive animalistic LED DRLs. The born electric INGLO platform offers battery options between 60 kWh and 80 kWh in capacity along with single-motor and dual-motor AWD drivetrain. Launch is expected by Dec 2024. More

    • 150 Shares99 Views

      in Electric Cars

      Maruti Suzuki eVX Electric SUV Spied Up Close – New Details Revealed

      by

      Maruti EVX Electric SUV SpiedPrimary rivals for Maruti Suzuki eVX spied up close include upcoming Creta EV, Curvv EV, BE.05, eC3 Aircross along with ZS EV and XUV400India’s best-selling car manufacturer, Maruti Suzuki, is exploring electrification route with its upcoming e-SUV. Maruti Suzuki is among the last OEMs to explore BEV options, while aiming at a bigger splash with hybrid vehicles. Despite that, the company has commenced testing of its maiden eVX electric vehicle and new spy shots reveal interesting details.Maruti Suzuki eVX Spied Up CloseUnlike the sub 4m Tata Nexon EV and Punch EV already on sale, Maruti Suzuki eVX will be a larger vehicle. This is because Nexon and Punch share their top hats with their ICE counterparts adhering to sub 4m length constraints. Maruti Suzuki eVX is based on YY8 skateboard, which is derived from Toyota’s 27PL platform.Maruti Suzuki eVX Spied Up CloseSo, this is a dedicated EV platform and not a derived one, shared with an already existing ICE vehicle. Maruti Suzuki eVX will not adhere to sub 4m length constraints and might measure between 4.2 m and 4.3 m. This pits it directly against Mahindra XUV400 and MG ZS EV, along with upcoming Hyundai Creta EV, Tata Curvv EV, Mahindra BE.05 and Citroen eC3 Aircross.The spy video shared by Rolling Cars reveals interesting new details. There is conventional headlight positioning, unlike the recent trend of split headlight setups. Headlight units seem to get triple ice-cube effect LED DRLs along with a mono LED projector setup. Front fascia has a radar module too, for ADAS suite.Maruti Suzuki eVX ORVM CameraORVMs get a camera each, suggesting a 360-camera setup. Alloy wheels are nothing fancy when compared to what was showcased in the concept car. Other interesting attributes include charging port on front left quarter panel. This should have been in the front centre for convenience’s sake like Tata does with Punch EV.Maruti Suzuki eVX New Infotainment ScreenWhat can we expect?Maruti is giving all-four disc brakes for enhanced stopping power, which is needed for heavier electric vehicles. While 4th generation Swift will ditch C-pillar mounted rear door handles, Maruti Suzuki eVX embraces it. Tail lights seem to be still under finalization and we can see temporary exposed bulbs for brakes and indicators.Going by recent Maruti launches, we can expect connected LED tail light design as well. Rear shark fin antenna and a neatly integrated roof spoiler are other highlight features. On the inside, this new spy video shows a larger touchscreen infotainment screen too. For starters, it is free-standing and looks wider and shorter than Maruti’s current 9-inch unit.Maruti EVX Electric SUV SpiedWe can speculate it to be around 10.2 inches diagonally. A similar screen might make it to instrument cluster for a new-age look. A panoramic sunroof, ventilated front seats, powered driver’s seat, and dual-zone climate control may be other highlights.Powertrain-wise, we can expect 45 kWh and 60 kWh battery options with single or dual motor AWD layouts too, accompanied by a 550 km claimed range. Launch could happen in 2025 and there will be Toyota counterpart based on Urban Crossover Concept revealed recently.Source More

    • 163 Shares169 Views

      in Bike

      Triumph 400 Custom Colours Launched At Rs 15k More – First Look Walkaround

      by

      Triumph 400 New Custom Colour. Image – Ramaswami120Along with the new custom paint jobs, users can also choose from two distinct set of graphics for the fuel tankTriumph’s lowest priced bikes, Speed 400 and Scrambler 400X, have emerged as popular options in the sub-middleweight motorcycle segment. While no one’s questioning the attractive design and powerful performance of these bikes, only three colour options are available for each bike.Four new custom shades for Speed 400, Scrambler 400XApparently, consumer tastes and preferences are a lot more diverse when it comes to their favourite colour. As a fix, a Triumph dealership in Pune is offering custom colour options for Speed 400 and Scrambler 400X.Triumph 400 Custom ColoursWhile factory shades for Speed 400, Scrambler 400X are pretty good, the timeless design of these bikes can surely accommodate a lot more experimentations with the colour palette. Addition of new colours will help target a larger segment of users. Royal Enfield understands this aspect and has been offering a comprehensive range of colour options for its bikes. Something similar is now being done by the Pune-based BU Bhandari Triumph dealership.One of the custom colours that stands out is a radiant Yellow shade. It presents a pretty picture in combination with the golden coloured USD forks. The Yellow shade is probably the most attractive among the custom colours being offered for Speed 400 and Scrambler 400X. Other colour options on offer include a white, silver and a black & red dual-tone colour scheme.Triumph 400 Custom ColoursThe application of the custom shades is limited to the fuel tank. This is probably due to technical and equipment limitations at the dealer level. In a factory setting, colour application can extend to various other parts such as the exposed frame sections, wheels, etc. Notwithstanding the limited applicability, the custom colour shades still come across as a refreshing change. It will appeal even more to users who are especially interested in a particular colour shade.Triumph 400 Custom ColoursNew custom graphics for Speed 400, Scrambler 400XAlong with the new colour shades, users can also choose from two distinct graphics options. One set of graphics primarily has the Triumph logo, whereas the other graphics kit has a combo of Triumph logo and twin contrasting strips.With four new colours, users now have a better chance of finding the best option that suits their individual tastes and preferences. If this new strategy works, it is possible that other Triumph dealers may also launch similar schemes for their customers.Triumph 400 Custom ColoursTriumph Speed 400, Scrambler 400X custom colour pricingEnthusiasts who choose any of the custom colour schemes for Speed 400, Scrambler 400X will be charged Rs 15,000 additional. The bike will be first registered at the RTO in the stock colour option, as received from the factory. Take a detailed look at the walkaround shared by Ramaswami120.[embedded content]After the buyer selects the custom colour, it will be applied at the dealer level. The dealer will then help the buyer in the documentation process for changing the bike’s colour. RTO costs related to the new colour scheme will have to be borne by the customer. Triumph Speed 400 is currently available at a starting price of Rs 2.33 lakh. Scrambler 400X is offered at Rs 2.63 lakh.Source More