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      Baojun Yep Plus (Comet Based SUV) Debut Soon – Punch EV, Exter EV Rival

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      MG Comet based new SUV Spied. Image – Tycho de FeijterCapable of carrying more passengers, the Baojun Yep Plus 5-door SUV will cater to a broader segment of users in comparison to the 3-door modelAvailable for sale in its home market China, the Baojun Yep 3-door electric SUV was launched in 2023. Latest spy shots reveal a new 5-door version in the works. The MG Comet EV based 5-door model is expected to be called Baojun Yep Plus. Launch in China is expected soon, most likely in Q1, CY2024.Baojun Yep Plus – Styling and featuresJust like the 3-door Yep, the 5-door Baojun Yep Plus has a boxy profile. Yep Plus will be longer than the 3-door Yep that measures 3.4 meters in length. However, Yep Plus will still be a sub-compact SUV, being less than 4 meters in length.MG Comet based new SUV SpiedExteriors of Yep Plus won’t have any major deviations in comparison to the 3-door Yep. This is evident with the test mule’s bumper and tail lights that are largely the same as seen with 3-door Yep. Front fascia of Yep Plus is also expected to be the same as that of 3-door Yep. Only some minor touch-ups can be introduced.However, with the longer size and additional doors, the side body panelling has changed. As compared to 3-door Yep that has the ORVMs mounted on the A pillar, the 5-door Yep Plus carries the ORVMs on the front door. Another thing to note is that this particular test mule does not have roof rails and running boards. Alloy wheels appear to be new for the 5-door Yep Plus.MG Comet based new SUV SpiedBaojun Yep Plus – Specs, performanceWith larger dimensions and more passengers to carry, 5-door Baojun Yep Plus will need a larger battery than the 28.1 kWh unit in use with the 3-door Yep. Range will be around the same as that of 3-door Yep that offers 303 km, as per CLTC standard. Performance details of 5-door Yep Plus are yet to be revealed. For reference, the 3-door Yep churns out 68 hp of max power and 140 Nm of peak torque. Its top speed is capped at 100 km/h.Baojun Yep Plus India launch prospectsIt is unlikely that an MG-badged 5-door Yep Plus electric SUV will be launched in India. However, MG Motor is developing a new EV (codenamed E260) for the Indian market, which will essentially be a rebadged version of 3-door Yep. Only minor styling changes are expected. MG’s new EV will be underpinned by Comet’s Global Small Electric Vehicle (GSEV) platform. It will have slightly larger dimensions than Comet and share a 3-door layout. Launch is expected in 2025.Just like the Comet, MG Motor will aim to launch the new EV at a competitive price point. It will be made possible with a high level of localization. Even the battery pack will be sourced locally. For Comet, the battery pack is sourced from Tata Autocomp. The new 3-door EV will be positioned above the Comet EV. It is expected to be launched in the price range of Rs 12 lakh to Rs 15 lakh.Source More

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      1973 AMC Hornet X Gucci Sportabout Is Today’s Find on Bring a Trailer

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      The AMC Hornet supplanted the long-serving Rambler at the start of the 1970s.The Sportabout was the wagon version, which offered a dose of extra practicality.This example, however, also adds a measure of Italian design-house chic with its Gucci decor package, a rare option. It’s up for auction until Wednesday, January 17.Plucky little American Motors Corporation never had the R&D money of the big three domestic automakers, so it was forced to be innovative. One avenue it explored was fashion-themed cars, such as the Pierre Cardin Javelin and the Levi’s Gremlin. For its thrifty compact Hornet, there was a tie-up with one of the most noble Italian design houses, the pride of Florence: Gucci. Bring a TrailerThis 1973 Hornet Sportabout wagon is a result of that mashup, andit’s up for auction on Bring a Trailer—which, like Car and Driver, is part of Hearst Autos. The Hornet was AMC’s mainstay, and but just because it was a workaday model didn’t mean it had to be boring. This one wasn’t, with its V-8 engine (originally a 304-cubic-inch, since replaced with a 360), white body-side stripes, and slotted mag wheels.Bring a TrailerThe good stuff, however, is on the inside, which features Gucci’s tri-color perforated vinyl seats and double-G headliner. Back in 1973, this option package would have tacked on nearly $150 to a car that stickered at $2500. Gucci had made its name selling scarves and bags to the likes of Grace Kelly and other swells, and while it’s doubtful the Princess of Monaco ever cruised the corniches above the Côte d’Azur in a Sportabout, the unlikeliness of the mashup is part of the charm here.Bring a TrailerThe green paint shows well, though there are a few cosmetic issues, the most serious being holes in the plastic filler panel between the rear bumper and body. This would take a bit of fiddly work to repair but is certainly doable, and it sounds like there might be a spare out there that’ll fit. The current owner has replaced the battery, alternator, voltage regulator, rear main seal, oil-pan gasket, timing cover gasket, and dipstick tube.Bring a TrailerThis car was previously sold on Bring a Trailer for $22,000, which is far beyond what a standard Hornet might bring. We’ll see whether buyers this time are as willing to open their wallets (Gucci or otherwise). Despite the Gucci tie-up, this unusual Sportabout is a totally unpretentious way to stand out at your local cars and coffee event. This no-reserve auction ends on January 17.Related StoriesBrendan McAleer is a freelance writer and photographer based in North Vancouver, B.C., Canada. He grew up splitting his knuckles on British automobiles, came of age in the golden era of Japanese sport-compact performance, and began writing about cars and people in 2008. His particular interest is the intersection between humanity and machinery, whether it is the racing career of Walter Cronkite or Japanese animator Hayao Miyazaki’s half-century obsession with the Citroën 2CV. He has taught both of his young daughters how to shift a manual transmission and is grateful for the excuse they provide to be perpetually buying Hot Wheels. More

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      Maruti To Export Electric Cars, Cells, Battery Packs – Japan, Europe Among Clients

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      Maruti EVX Electric SUVMaruti is aiming to sell approximately half a million EVs per annum by FY2031, which will be around 15% of its overall salesAlthough Maruti Suzuki is a late entrant in the electric car segment, the company is looking to step up focus in this space. There are plans to launch at least 6 electric vehicles by the end of this decade. Maruti’s first EV will be eVX compact SUV that will rival the likes of upcoming Hyundai Creta EV and Tata Curvv EV.Maruti to export EVs, battery cells and battery packsAlong with the domestic market, Maruti Suzuki will also target exports of its EVs. In addition, the company will also be exporting advanced lithium-ion battery cells and battery packs. The exports are targeted to commence this year itself. The export markets for EVs and related components include Japan and European countries.Maruti EVX Electric SUVSpeaking about the plans, Maruti Suzuki India Executive Director Rahul Bharti said that the company is looking at exports worth Rs 750 crore in the current financial year. The exports will include battery cells, battery packs and modules.Maruti Suzuki sources the battery cells and packs from the Automotive Electronics Power Private Ltd (AEPPL). This entity is a joint venture between Maruti’s parent company Suzuki Motor Corporation and Toshiba Corporation and Denso Corporation. The components are manufactured at a lithium-ion battery plant location in Hansalpur, Gujarat.Maruti EVX Electric SUV Render by Motor.ESSuzuki to invest 3,200 crores to boost BEV productionSuzuki Group has allocated funds worth Rs 3,200 crores for the expansion of Suzuki Motor Gujarat (SMG) plant. It currently has a production capacity of 7.5 lakh units per annum. The fourth production line will add 2.5 lakh units per year, thereby increasing the overall production capacity of the plant to 1 million units per year. This new production line will cater exclusively to Maruti’s upcoming electric cars. It is to note that Suzuki Motor Corporation has around 58% shareholding in Maruti Suzuki.Suzuki is also setting up a new plant in Gujarat. An investment of Rs 35,000 crores has been earmarked for the project. The new plant will have a production capacity of 1 million units per annum. With increased production capacity, Maruti will be able to handle rising demand for its cars across both domestic and international markets. Apart from BEVs, Maruti will also be focusing on other fuels such as CNG, flex fuel, biogas and hybrid electric vehicles. By FY 2030-31, the company will have a total of 28 models in its portfolio. It has 18 models as of now.This year, Maruti will be launching the Creta EV-rivalling eVX compact SUV. In 2024, Tata will be introducing the Curvv ICE and EV models. Creta EV is expected to debut this year around the festive season. It will be a new battleground and difficult to say who will take the lead. Maruti is also working on a new entry-level EV that will primarily rival Tata Tiago EV. Based on a new born electric K-EV platform, the small EV is expected to give a big boost to the company’s EV goals. It will be launched in 2026-27. More

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      Mercedes EQG Synchronized 360° Tank Turns At Vegas Strip – Theatrics Or Practical?

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      Mercedes EQG G-Turn360° tank turn capabilities have been displayed earlier by other cars also such as BYD YangWang U8 and Hyundai Ioniq 5 prototypeMercedes has showcased the 360° tank turn feature of its new Electric G-Class in multiple videos posted earlier. The company has chosen to call this feature the ‘G’ turn. Taking it a step further, 4 EQG prototypes can be seen performing synchronized 360° tank turns at the Las Vegas Strip. The spectacular show highlights the superior technological prowess of electric cars in comparison to ICE vehicles.Mercedes EQG G turns – Practical usesWhile the synchronized show at the Las Vegas Strip was an impressive publicity stunt, the 360° tank turn can find practical uses. For example, it can come in handy during off-roading when the user needs to manoeuvre the vehicle to the right or left. Dodging a big boulder or other such obstacles can be possible with the G-turn feature.One may not need to use the full 360° turn. Instead, even a slight move to the left or right can be useful while negotiating challenging off-road tracks. In other uses, the 360° tank turn can find applications while negotiating tight urban spaces. Or driving through single-lane streets or accidentally reaching a dead-end.And of course, the G turn seems like a great way to have some fun with friends and family. With the synchronized G-turn option, the possibilities are limitless for individuals and organizations alike. Something similar can already be seen with Tesla’s synchronized light shows. The EQG can perhaps add more dynamism to such shows with its 360° tank turn capabilities.[embedded content]EQG 360° spin – How it works?Although the Mercedes-Benz’s G turn looks effortless, a high level of precision engineering, AI and sensors are required to make it possible. The EQG does it automatically, without requiring any significant inputs from the driver.It works by transferring forward and reverse power to diagonally opposite wheels. This allows the vehicle to rotate on its axis. The wheels don’t turn left or right during this process. As the 360° tank turn puts significant stress on the vehicle, the chassis and suspension need to be strong to support such features.G-turn will be available with production modelIn the past, some other cars have also shown capabilities to perform a 360° tank turn. In 2019, the Rivian R1T pickup was shown making tank turns. However, the feature was not offered with the production model. This is unlikely to be the case with production EQG or the baby G-Class, as the company is promoting the 360° tank turn in a big way. It has already received wide appreciation from enthusiasts.Mercedes EQG G-Turn Aerial ViewMercedes EQG utilizes an independent front suspension, in combination with a rigid rear axle. A body-on-frame chassis has been used, specially developed for EVs. To protect the drivetrain components, the EQG utilizes carbon-kevlar underbody panels. The SUV has 4 electric motors that generate a combined output of around 600 to 670 hp. More

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      BMW’s iDrive 9 Lets You Play Video Games with a PlayStation Controller

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      BMW’s new iDrive 9 infotainment system is adding more third-party apps, including video games that can be played with traditional Bluetooth controllers.The automaker also showed off its developmental remote-controlled valet parking at this year’s CES.BMW previewed other potential future technology too, including augmented-reality glasses.Most people who have played video games on a console in the past 25 years have done so with a full-size controller. Later this year, they’ll be able to do the same in new BMW models with the iDrive 9 infotainment system. We had the opportunity to test that experience at this year’s CES, where BMW had live demonstrations of the soon-to-be-available feature as well as developmental tech that someday might become reality.In-Car Video GamesIt’s currently possible to play video games in several new BMW models with the AirConsole app that was introduced earlier this year. It lets people download games and use their smartphone as a controller—only when the car isn’t moving, of course. Before the end of 2024, BMWs with iDrive 9 will be able to play other video games with full-size controllers, including Bluetooth-enabled PlayStation and Xbox gamepads.We had the chance to play Beach Buggy Racing 2 using a PlayStation 5 controller. While we only spent a few minutes playing during the demo, it was immediately clear that it was just as fun factor as playing on a normal device. The new BMW X1 we were in also had the benefit of an excellent audio system that made the sound experience extra enjoyable. The game can even be played in split-screen mode with a second controller.BMWBMW says the in-car gaming will be available through its ConnectedDrive Store along with a slew of other new third-party apps that are made possible by the Android-based software that’s baked into iDrive 9. Access requires paying for the BMW Digital Premium option, though. New models that aren’t initially available with the controller connection will be able to add it via an over-the-air update.Remote-Controlled Valet ParkingMuch stranger than playing a video game in a car is remotely controlling a real-life car using a driving simulator. That’s what we did at BMW’s outdoor exhibit at CES where we piloted an electric iX SUV through a parking lot course while seated about 100 feet away. BMWFacing a multiplex of screens and seated in a racing chair, we grabbed the steering wheel and placed our feet on the pedals. A video feed from the forward-facing camera was our primary view, but it didn’t provide a sense of spatial awareness. A secondary screen to our right showed an overhead view that helped us navigate between the cones and the gates that served as checkpoints.We’re not strangers to driving simulators, but remotely driving the iX with one was a much different experience due to the delays between our inputs and the actual acceleration and braking. Getting the EV SUV to go required flattening the accelerator pedal and waiting a few seconds before the vehicle started to move. Even then, its top speed was limited to 15 mph, which is also the posted speed limit for most parking lots and parking garages.Just like a production model, our iX RC car is able to park itself in certain situations. BMW—which developed the remote-controlled valet with the help of Valeo, a mobility-focused tech company—said the idea is for drivers to leave their vehicle at a designated dropoff spot and then for it to automatically search for an open spot and return to the pickup point when summoned. Of course, the Level 4 automated parking system can also be remotely controlled in the way that we experienced. Someday, this technology could be used for events big and small as well as by logistics companies.AR In a CarWhile we didn’t have time to experience them, BMW also held live demonstrations of its augmented-reality glasses. Called “XREAL Air 2,” the AR lenses are designed to provide the driver and passengers with information that’s supplementary to the vehicle’s standard displays.BMWThe demonstration is described as a trip through Las Vegas where navigation, hazard information, points of interest, and entertainment content are shown via the AR glasses. BMW believes this technology will become more common in the coming years, and it has been following the development as far back as 2008. In 2015, the company previewed an augmented-reality system with the Mini Augmented Vision project. More recently, this author drove a real-life BMW M2 around a racetrack wearing a virtual-reality headset. Clearly, BMW is invested in this tech, which suggests it might be closer to reality than fantasy.The Future of BMWEric Stafford’s automobile addiction began before he could walk, and it has fueled his passion to write news, reviews, and more for Car and Driver since 2016. His aspiration growing up was to become a millionaire with a Jay Leno–like car collection. Apparently, getting rich is harder than social-media influencers make it seem, so he avoided financial success entirely to become an automotive journalist and drive new cars for a living. After earning a journalism degree at Central Michigan University and working at a daily newspaper, the years of basically burning money on failed project cars and lemon-flavored jalopies finally paid off when Car and Driver hired him. His garage currently includes a 2010 Acura RDX, a manual ’97 Chevy Camaro Z/28, and a ’90 Honda CRX Si. More

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      Hertz Wants to Sell 20,000 EVs amid Low Rental Demand, High Repair Prices

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      Just over two years after announcing plans to purchase 100,000 Teslas and another 65,000 electric cars from Polestar for its rental fleets, Hertz is planning to sell off 20,000 of its EVs, according to a federal regulatory filing posted Thursday. The rental company noted the high cost of collision repairs and lower demand from consumers as the primary drivers for the EV divestment. Hertz, in turn, plans to use some of the income from those sales to purchase more new gas-powered vehicles. The electric-car rental demand issue may have less to do with the cars themselves and more to do with the unique traits of EVs. An average renter is looking for a car that will get them around over the course of a trip rather than a compelling experience in that car. For those customers, the complexities of an EV may prove to be more of a frustration than a charm. Smart ShoppersRenting a Tesla Model 3, for instance, comes with all the frustrations of the screen-heavy Tesla user interface without any of the time to get used to those adjustments that a buyer would have. Charging is an even bigger issue: Not only do consumers without EV experience who rent a Polestar 2 or a Tesla Model 3 have to figure out how to charge a car while on the road, they also have to figure out two completely different charging ecosystems depending on which car they get. Even though Hertz plans to offload much of its electric fleet, the company says it “will continue to execute its strategy around EV mobility and offer customers a wide selection of vehicles,” according to the filing. Hertz says it will grow its charging infrastructure, work closer with electric car manufacturers to lower parts and labor costs, and continue to help educate customers about EVs.Hertz currently lists 548 Tesla Model 3s and zero Polestar models on its direct sales website. The most affordable Teslas are currently selling for just over $20,000, but screenshots shared by Electrek on Wednesday suggest that other Model 3s have previously been listed for as low as $17,700 before a potential tax credit for used EVs. More

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      Tata Punch EV Reach Dealerships – Interior Similar To Nexon EV

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      Tata Punch EV Reach DealershipsAs opposed to ICE Punch, Tata Punch EV has an overhauled interior that shares most components with pricier Nexon EVWithin Tata Motors’ SUV lineup, Punch is the smallest offering and has created a special segment of its own below Nexon sub 4m SUV. With 5 Star crash safety rating from GNCAP, rugged looks and a well-packaged features list, Punch soon became popular in India. Now, Tata is launching an electric version of Punch to expand its EV portfolio.Tata Punch EV Reach DealershipsIf Nexon is the highest-selling vehicle (of any segment) in India, Punch is 3rd highest-selling vehicle with 13,787 units sold in December 2023. In comparison, Tiago and Tigor garner much lower sales numbers. Electrifying Punch would unlock a new horizon of expanding the brand’s reach to target demographic.Considering growing SUV craze in India, Punch EV could very well be India’s best-selling EV upon launch too, sidelining Tiago EV. The potential that Punch EV packs is very high and pricing is likely to play a big role in establishing this effect. The company has revealed exterior design elements of Punch EV ahead of launch.For the first time, Punch EV interiors have been spotted of units that have been arriving at Tata’s EV-specific dealerships. There is a massive departure in interiors from what the company is offering with ICE model. The overall look and feel of Punch EV is a big leap in terms of aesthetics, appeal and technology.Punch EV new 10.2-inch instrument screenWe say this because there are a lot of parts sharing with its bigger and more expensive brother, Nexon EV, which was recently launched. The Punch EV spotted at dealership seems to be top-spec Empowered+ trim and hence it gets the same 10.2-inch fully digital instrument cluster that Tata offers with Nexon, Nexon EV, Harrier and Safari.Interior overhaulOther than that, Punch EV should get the same 10.2-inch touchscreen infotainment screen that supports wireless Android Auto and Apple CarPlay along with Arcade.ev app suite from Tata. Punch EV gets Tata’s new 2-spoke steering wheel with an illuminated logo similar to Nexon EV. There should be a new centre console with touch and toggle design HVAC controls as well.These are a major uplift when compared to the interiors of Punch ICE with a small 7-inch head unit and other shared parts with Tiago and Tigor. Punch EV gets rear disc brakes too, something that Harrier doesn’t get as standard even today. Tata is offering standard Punch EV and Punch EV LR (Long Range) with battery choices and an electrifying performance.Punch EVEven the sunroof is optional and not standard, which is much appreciated. Other choices include either a 3.3 kW AC charger or the faster 7.2 kW AC charger. The car sits on a dedicated Acti.ev electric vehicle platform that allows for a front trunk as well, which is the first on any Tata EV before. Charging port is in the front too, which is so much convenient than side ports.Image – Chotharamparmar More

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      Maruti To Launch Entry-Level EV In 3 Years – Tiago EV Rival

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      Suzuki eWX ConceptUnlike some OEMs that have initially relied on ICE to EV conversions, Maruti will start its EV journey with a born-electric platformAlthough late in the EV game, Maruti Suzuki had mega plans for this segment. More than 10,000 crore investment has been earmarked for localization of EVs. The first product will be eVX compact electric SUV, expected to be launched in late 2024. Later in 2026-2027, Maruti will target the entry-level EV space, currently dominated by Tata Tiago EV.Maruti small EV detailsA few years back, Maruti was working on an ICE to EV conversion project in the form of Wagon R EV. That project was scrapped due to cost and technical aspects. Maruti is now developing a born-electric EV architecture (codenamed K-EV) that will be used for its compact electric vehicles.Suzuki eWX ConceptIt is different from the eVX that will spawn the Creta EV rivalling compact EV. Both these platforms will be used to develop multiple new EVs. Having two platforms will help add more variety and fulfil cost, efficiency and performance requirements.Similar to the strategy followed by Tata Motors, Maruti Suzuki will also focus on achieving a high level of localization. Suzuki has tie-ups with Denso and Toshiba for manufacturing battery packs. For the upcoming eVX, Suzuki will be sourcing the blade cells from BYD. However, the battery supplier for K-EV small EV could be a different entity.Suzuki eWX ConceptMaruti targeting half a million EV sales by FY31Maruti has plans to ramp up its EV operations at a fast pace. By the end of this decade, Maruti is looking to add at least 6 new electric cars. By FY2031, Maruti EV sales will comprise around 15% of its overall sales. That’s around half a million units per annum. Maruti’s EV portfolio will have a wide range of options including hatchbacks, SUVs and MPVs. All EVs will be born electric and there won’t be any ICE to EV conversions.To achieve a high level of localization, Suzuki has committed an investment of more than Rs 10,000 crore. The funds will be used for localization of cells as well as for production. Maruti EVs will compete with Tata EVs across both pricing and features.As of now, Tata dominates with a market share of more than 70%. Entry-level Tiago EV is a key contributor, averaging sales of around 1,000 to 1,500 units per month. Tata will also launch Punch EV, which is expected to provide a significant boost to the company’s EV sales.EV prices to match ICE-car prices in coming yearsAs of now, electric vehicles are sold at a premium. In the case of ICE Tiago and its EV version, the price difference is around 35%. Such price gaps are expected to reduce in future, as production volumes increase and battery prices fall. It will allow a faster transition from ICE to EVs. It will still be a long journey, as EV share in overall PV sales in 2023 was just around 2 percent.Source More