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    Royal Enfield Shotgun 650 Globally Debuts In Los Angeles

    Royal Enfield Shotgun 650 globally debuted at Los AngelesThe same 648cc parallel-twin engine as other RE 650s does duty on Royal Enfield Shotgun 650 globally debuted in LA, developing around 47 hp and 53 NmThe iconic classic motorcycle maker, Royal Enfield, has taken the wraps off Shotgun 650 in Los Angeles, USA. This is the production version of Royal Enfield Shotgun 650, unlike the Shotgun 650 Motoverse Edition launched at Rs. 4.25 lakh (ex-sh), limited to 25 units only. The production version looks very similar to Motoverse Edition, but there are visual differences.Royal Enfield Shotgun 650 Globally DebutsRoyal Enfield is known for its blank canvas approach for modders and custom bike builders to work on. Modders love Royal Enfields as it is the classic motorcycle of choice for many buyers to begin with. Even with Royal Enfield’s 650cc portfolio, there has been extensive custom bike examples that are exemplary in their own way.Now, the company has debuted Shotgun 650 in a multitude of custom shades riding in and around Los Angeles. For Royal Enfield, Shotgun 650 is a celebration of self expression. As we all know, West Coast is known for its mod culture and houses some of world’s greatest custom bike builders.Design of production-spec Shotgun 650 is very close to Shotgun 650 Motoverse Edition that was recently sold to 25 lucky Motoverse 2023 attendees. The bike looks very close to original SG650 concept that was showcased earlier. All the motorcycles that featured in Royal Enfield’s short video were single-seat versions.New Shotgun 650 ColoursThere are four colour options – Stencil White, Plasma Blue, Green Drill and Sheetmetal Grey. This motorcycle can be transformed into a single-seater, souble-seater and a luggage carrying tourer, with pillion seat popping out with a twist of the key.What does it pack?For starters, Shotgun 650 packs the same main frame as Super Meteor 650, but a slightly different sub frame. This is to suit different design characteristics that separate Super Meteor 650 and Shotgun 650. Where powertrain is concerned, Royal Enfield Shotgun 650 packs the same 648cc parallel twin oil-cooled engine as other RE 650s.This powertrain is capable of developing 47 hp of peak power and 52 Nm of peak torque, mated to a 6-speed gearbox. Royal Enfield is offering a slip and assist clutch as part of package. This powertrain has oodles of torque and power reserves for both enthusiastic as well as relaxed and laid-back riding styles.Shotgun 650 anglesComponentry includes USD telescopic front forks and twin shock absorbers at the rear, single disc brake setup at both ends coupled with dual-channel ABS as standard, a wide handlebar for good leverage, 18-inch front and 17-inch rear alloy wheels with tubeless tyres among others. Features include a semi-digital instrument cluster, Tripper screen, all LED lighting, Wingman telematics and many more.As of now, Royal Enfield has not revealed a launch date and final specs are still under wraps. We expect it to launch in early 2024 at a starting price of around Rs. 3.7 lakh (ex-sh) for the base variant.Words from the manufacturerSpeaking about this motorcycle, Siddhartha Lal, Managing Director & CEO of Eicher Motors Ltd., says “The Shotgun 650 is inspired by the work of our custom community and our years of work with them. It is a retro-futuristic interpretation of what a factory custom motorcycle with thoroughbred Royal Enfield DNA would look like. A shape-shifting machine that defies categorization, both in form and in spirit, the Shotgun 650 is something absolutely new and different.Shotgun 650 accessoriesIt is super fun to ride with confidence inspiring ride ergonomics and handles well in downtown city streets, through twisties and powers through straight highways. The Shotgun 650 is our attempt to bring niche and newer categories of motorcycles to growing enthusiasts of self-expression”. More

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    Hyundai Creta EV 45kWh Battery Likely – MG ZS EV, Maruti eVX, XUV400 Rival

    Hyundai Creta EVWhere size is concerned, Hyundai Creta EV will rival Mahindra XUV400 and MG ZS EV already on sale along with upcoming Maruti eVXGlobally, Hyundai and Kia are among the leading electric car makers. In India however, they operate in premium segments as we can see with Kona Electric, Ioniq 5, EV6 and the likes. Hyundai is set to change that with Creta EV, its first mainstream electric car that could spawn a Kia version in the form of Seltos EV or Kia EV3.Hyundai Creta EV 45kWh Battery LikelyThe South Korean brand has been testing Creta EV for some time now. Both here and abroad. The early test mules spotted India had the same exterior design as current ICE Creta on sale. However, the upcoming Hyundai Creta EV will have design in line with ICE Creta facelift that is currently being tested too.Recent reports suggest that Hyundai is implementing a 45 kWh battery setup on Creta EV. This is slightly strange as immediate rivals sport slightly larger battery packs. If we take MG ZS EV, it packs in a 50.3 kWh battery pack. Upcoming Maruti Suzuki eVX production version is currently on testing too and is expected to pack a larger battery.That said, Mahindra XUV400 (electric version of XUV300) is of comparable size and packs a 39.4 kWh battery. So, Hyundai might intend to position Creta EV at a reasonable bump in price over its top-spec diesel variants. As of writing this article, top-spec ICE Creta diesel AT variant costs Rs. 19.2 lakh (ex-sh).Hyundai Creta Electric spied at a charging station in HaryanaRs. 19.2 lakh is exactly what Mahindra XUV400 also costs with top-spec variant. At launch, Hyundai Creta EV 45kWh model might be priced starting from around Rs. 21 lakh, which is a lot logical as MG ZS EV with a bigger battery starts from Rs. 22.88 lakh (all prices ex-sh).What to expect?Hyundai Creta EV 45kWh model is likely to be based on a modified version of current ICE Creta’s platform. As per the cells in this battery pack, the recent report mentions that upcoming Creta EV is sourcing them from LG Chem, which is Hyundai’s global battery pack supplier. This battery will be placed along the floorboard, like most EVs.Upcoming Creta EV will probably share its motor with recently launched Hyundai Kona EV, which is not on sale in India. This is a single motor setup driving the front wheels in FWD architecture and is likely to develop close to 140 PS and 250 Nm of torque, mated to a single-speed gearbox.Features of Hyundai Creta EV will be similar to its ICE counterpart. New additions expected with Creta facelift are Level-2 ADAS suite of active safety features, LED lighting all around (including turn indicators), probably rear ventilated seats, electrically operated tailgate, among others.Testing for both ICE Creta facelift and Creta EV are underway. We can expect Creta EV to debut at a later date. Maybe late 2024 or early 2025. While ICE Creta facelift is expected to debut as early as next month.Source More

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    TVS Apache RR 200 Faired Bike Launch Likely In 2024 – Render

    TVS Apache RR 200 RenderTVS Apache RR200 will be based on RTR 200 4V, while borrowing styling cues from RR310In recent years, an increasing number of enthusiasts are looking for the race track experience. Entry-level options currently available in this space include KTM RC200, Pulsar RS200 and Hero Karizma XMR 210. With significant future potential, it is possible that TVS may enter this space with the all-new Apache RR200. A digital render gives a better idea about the look and feel of TVS Apache RR200.TVS RR200 – Key featuresJust like the larger capacity sibling, Apache RR200 has the same racing DNA. The adrenalin rush is instant, with just a glance at this hunky speed machine. Some of the key highlights include an aggressive front fascia, front cowl mounted rear view mirrors, compact windscreen, low-set handlebar, sharp fairing with sporty graphics and decals, sculpted fuel tank, split seats and upswept exhaust. Some exciting colour options will be available with Apache RR200.TVS Apache RR 200 RenderTech kit includes a Bluetooth-enabled digital instrument cluster. Users can access features such as race telemetry, lean angle mode, navigation, call/SMS notification, crash alert system and low fuel alert.Apache RR200 specs, performanceTVS Apache RR200 will borrow most of the hardware from Apache RTR 200 4V. The 197.75 cc, oil cooled, Fi engine generates 20.82 PS of max power and 17.25 Nm of peak torque. This max power output is available when the Sport mode is engaged. In Urban and Rain mode, power and torque output is 17.32 PS and 16.51 Nm. The engine is mated to a 5-speed gearbox. Top speed of RR200 could be higher in comparison to 127 km/h available with RTR 200 4V.Apache RR200 will have a double cradle split synchro stiff frame. It can get USD forks at front to gain an edge over rivals like Pulsar RS200 and Hero Karizma that have standard telescopic forks. Surprisingly, Hero Xtreme 160R 4V has USD forks, but the same was omitted for Karizma. Among RR200’s primary rivals, only KTM RC200 is equipped with USD forks.At rear, Apache RR200 will have a monoshock suspension. The bike is likely to use 17-inch wheels at both ends, shod with tubeless radial tyres. Braking setup comprises 270 mm and 240 mm petrol disc brakes at front and rear. Dual-channel ABS will be standard. Single channel SuperMoto ABS is also likely. Racing equipment could include adjustable suspension, adjustable brake and clutch levers, Glide Through Technology (GTT), slipper clutch and double-barrel exhaust.TVS will be aiming to launch RR200 at an affordable price point. The initial, limited period price offer could be lower in comparison to rivals. As of now, Bajaj Pulsar RS200 is the most affordable in the group at Rs 1.72 lakh. Hero Karizma XMR is available at a starting price of Rs 1.80 lakh. KTM RC200 starts from Rs 2.18 lakh. More

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    Gogoro Crossover Launched With Three Variants – Full Details

    Gogoro Crossover electric scooter launchedAfter River Indie, Gogoro Crossover electric scooter aims for a rugged and purposeful design along with a colourful flairGogoro is a Taiwanese electric mobility solutions provider known for its swappable battery tech. The company has made quite a dent in electric mobility share in its home country and other markets. For the first time, Gogoro is making its presence known in Indian market physically by launching Gogoro Crossover electric scooter for B2B customers first. Crossover is the company’s latest addition to its global lineup.Gogoro CrossoverIndia is emerging as an important market for 2-wheel vehicles. Even though a majority of this 2W industry is still riding on the wave of IC engine-based vehicles, there is a growth potential in electric realm. This is where Gogoro intends to make a mark. A place where companies like Ola, Ather, TVS, Bajaj, Ampere, Okinawa, Hero Electric and others are currently operating.There are three variants of Gogoro – Crossover GX250, Crossover 50 and Crossover S. Crossover GX250 has a 2.5 kW motor (3.35 bhp) with 60+ km/h top speed and 111km certified range. Crossover 50 has a 5.0 kW motor (6.70 bhp) and Crossover S gets either 6.4 kW (6.58 bhp) or 7.2 kW (9.65 bhp) options. Gogoro networks are currently live in Delhi and Goa with plans to extend to Mumbai and Pune by Q1 2024.Early batch will be exclusive to B2B customers while passenger versions will be available in Q2 2024. Unveiled globally in October 2023, Gogoro Crossover electric scooter is a crossover as its name suggests. It can be both an urban commuter or a rugged and proper workhorse. This is a unique approach where Gogoro can target both PV and CV segments alike with the same actual product.Gogoro Crossover profileCrossover utilises a steel tubular frame. The 1,400 mm wheelbase is the longest that Gogoro has ever produced. Other numbers include 176 mm ground clearance and 126 kg weight including its batteries (global spec). Where design is concerned, there is a protruding headlight from front apron. This seems to be an integral part of its frame as it can accommodate an optional rack to carry luggage.Dual swappable batteriesSimilar provision is seen at the rear where an optional rack can accommodate quite a bit of luggage or cargo. If there is a need for more space, rear seat can be folded up to form rider’s backrest, freeing up a flat area to accommodate more cargo. If that’s enough, there is a large and flat floorboard at owner’s disposal.Panniers, top boxes and other accessories should broaden the horizon for Gogoro Crossover electric scooter’s practicality and capability. Componentry includes RSU telescopic front forks, rear shock absorbers, 12-inch wheels at both ends, 220 mm front and 180 mm rear disc brakes, a mid-mounted motor and more (specs are for global model).Gogoro Crossover rugged capabilitiesGogoro Crossover gets two removable batteries, weighing 10 kg each. Swappable batteries ensure negligible downtime and optimum time management. Despite the twin swappable batteries, there is decent under-seat storage too. Features include a fully digital instrument cluster, LED lighting all around, Bluetooth with smartphone connectivity options and more.As of now, Gogoro has committed to USD 1.5 Bilion (Rs. 12,300 Crore) in investments in Maharashtra state. The company’s first manufacturing facility has been set up in Aurangabad. Gogoro has teamed up with HPCL (Hindustan Petroleum Company Limited) to host its battery-swapping stations. Prices for Gogoro Crossover GX250 intended for B2B customers have not been made public and will depend on specific requirements. More

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    Standard Kawasaki W175 Gets Price Cut Of Rs. 25K – New Colours

    Standard Kawasaki W175 With 2 New ColoursAs opposed to the recently launched W175 Street with alloy wheels and tubeless tyres, Standard Kawasaki W175 gets wire-spoke wheels with tube tyresKawasaki seems to be making quite a buzz in India, all for the right reasons. The Japanese company recently showcased ZX-6R in India at India Bike Week 2023. In the same event, Kawasaki took the wraps off W175 Street which got an introductory price of Rs. 1.35 lakh (ex-sh). Following that, Kawasaki has slashed prices of Standard Kawasaki W175 as well.Standard Kawasaki W175 Gets Price Cut Of Rs. 25KPreviously available at Rs. 1.47 lakh (ex-sh), Standard Kawasaki W175 was a hard sell. With the introduction of W175 Street with more attractive features, prospect of a Standard W175 got even less appealing. We say this because W175 Street got an introductory price of Rs. 1.35 lakh (ex-sh) and boasted more desirable features.Now, the Standard Kawasaki W175 is being offered with a big price cut. Making it Rs. 25,000 more affordable than it used to be before. Ex-sh prices for Standard W175 start from Rs. 1.22 lakh and goes till Rs. 1.31 lakh, depending on the choice of colours.Speaking of colours, Kawasaki has introduced two new colours on top of Ebony and Candy Persimmon Red shades on offer from the start. New colours are Metallic Graphite Grey and Metallic Ocean Blue. All four colours on Standard W175 motorcycle are offered at different price points.Standard Kawasaki W175 Metallic Ocean BlueThis spreads W175’s variant lineup across Standard and Street versions. Offering a broader range of price spectrum, starting from Rs. 1.22 lakh to Rs. 1.31 lakh for Standard W175 and Rs. 1.35 lakh for newly launched W175 Street (all prices ex-sh).Breaking down the prices, we get Standard W175 starting from Rs. 1.22 lakh for Ebony shade, Rs. 1.24 lakh for Candy Persimmon Red, Rs. 1.29 lakh for Metallic Graphite Gray and Rs. 1.31 lakh for Metallic Ocean Blue. Where W175 Street are concerned, Rs. 1.35 lakh for Metallic Moondust Gray and Candy Emerald Green. All prices are ex-sh.Difference between Standard and Street versionsThe only difference between Standard Kawasaki W175 and W175 Street is the addition of alloy wheels with the latter. Whereas Standard W175 still gets wire-spoke wheels with tube-type tyres. W175 gets tubeless tyres, which is a much-appreciated convenience feature on this retro motorcycle.Standard Kawasaki W175 Metallic Graphite GrayOther than that, both Standard and Street versions get the same old-world charm and bare-bones features list. Both motorcycles get the same 177cc air-cooled single-cylinder engine that pumps out 13 hp of peak power and 13 Nm of peak torque, mated to a 5-speed gearbox.There is a disc brake at the front with single-channel ABS and a drum brake setup at the rear. Wheels are 17-inch in size and there is not a lot of kit on offer with Kawasaki W175. Lighting all around is graced by halogen bulbs and instrument cluster is semi-digital. The 135 kg weight is a strong point with W175 that makes it very friendly. More

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    BYD Compact Electric SUV Leaks Before Launch – Creta EV, Curvv EV Rival

    BYD Yuan UP Electric SUVBYD Yuan UP can be a possibility for India, considering the impending electrification of compact SUV segmentIn its home market China, BYD sells an extensive range of electric cars under Dynasty and Ocean series. Both of these have multiple sub-brands including Yuan. As revealed via homologation documents, the Yuan range will soon see the addition of Yuan UP compact electric SUV.BYD Yuan UP electric SUV homologated in ChinaBYD Yuan UP is scheduled to be officially revealed in the first half of CY2024. Ahead of that, some of the details about the electric SUV have been leaked via documents related to regulatory compliance.BYD Yuan UP Electric SUVIn China, the necessary approvals including the homologation certificate are provided by the Ministry of Industry and Information Technology (MIIT). In India, such processes are handled by the Automotive Research Association of India (ARAI).The difference is that MIIT reveals pictures along with the information, whereas only technical details are revealed by ARAI. MIIT’s approach can be worrying, as carmakers generally try to keep things under wraps till the launch day. A new product getting completely revealed before launch kills all the suspense for enthusiasts. But that’s the way MIIT operates.BYD Yuan UP Electric SUVBYD Yuan UP specs, performanceAs per the details revealed, BYD Yuan UP electric SUV will be offered in a 5-seat configuration. The SUV is 4,310 mm long, 1,830 mm wide and 1,675 mm tall. Wheelbase is 2,620 mm. There will be two powertrain options. Model TZ180XSF will be equipped with a 70-kW motor, whereas model TZ200XSW will have a 130-kW motor. With motor capacity close to double, a significant difference can be expected in the performance of the two variants.BYD Yuan UP Electric SUVThe electric motor to be used is manufactured by Hefei BYD Automobile Co. The battery pack will be supplied by Wuwei Findream Co. Both of these are subsidiaries of BYD. Yuan UP electric SUV has curb weight of 1430 kg and 1540 kg, based on the powertrain selected. Top speed of the SUV is capped at 160 km/h.In terms of design, BYD Yuan UP SUV borrows styling cues from the recently unveiled Song L electric crossover SUV. Some of the optional features include a panoramic sunroof and a sleek rear spoiler. Wheel options include 16-inch and 17-inch, shod with 215/65 and 215/60 tyres, respectively.BYD Yuan UP launchWhen launched, Yuan UP will be the smallest EV in this range. Yuan sub-brand currently has Yuan Plus, Yuan Pro and Yuan Plus Champion Edition. Yuan Plus is sold in India as Atto 3. Yuan UP SUV is expected to be launched at a starting price of Rs 100,000 yuan (approx. Rs 11.72 lakh).As BYD sources most of the core components including battery packs and electric motors from its subsidiaries, it is able to achieve an affordable price point. If launched in India, BYD Yuan UP electric SUV will take on MG ZS EV and upcoming rivals such as Hyundai Creta EV, Mahindra BE.05, Maruti Suzuki eVX and Tata Curvv EV. More

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    2024 Hyundai Kona Electric Gets Price Cut, Now Starts at $34,010

    The 2024 Hyundai Kona Electric starts at $34,010. That’s $875 less than the outgoing generation.The new Kona EV’s other two trims are also slightly cheaper, with the SEL and Limited starting at $38,010 and $42,380, respectively. Since the ’24 Kona Electric isn’t currently built in the U.S., it doesn’t qualify for the $7500 federal EV tax credit.Not only has the 2024 Hyundai Kona Electric become bigger inside and out as well as added better features, but its base price also costs about $900 less than the outgoing generation. In a day and age when new cars are consistently becoming more expensive year over year, it’s nice to see a new car that actually costs less.New Kona EV PricesRedesigned for 2024, the Kona Electric’s entry-level SE trim starts at $34,010. That’s $875 less than its 2023 predecessor, which started at $34,885. The new generation continues to offer the mid-tier SEL and top-spec Limited. Those start at $38,010 and $42,380, respectively. The former figure is $625 less than before, and the latter constitutes a $505 discount.Hyundai’s decision to lower rather than raise prices of the new Kona Electric isn’t a common practice. However, it might have something to do with offsetting the fact that the subcompact SUV isn’t currently eligible for the $7500 federal tax credit. Since it’s not built in the U.S., it doesn’t qualify under the rules of the Inflation Reduction Act. At least folks interested in leasing a Kona Electric should be able to get the credit.A Hyundai spokesperson told Car and Driver that the company was able to reduce the Kona Electric’s starting price due to the smaller battery pack. Interestingly, higher trims that have the bigger battery have a similarly lower starting price, which we think hurts the base model’s value since it has less power and shorter estimated range. If anything, the electric Kona’s base price should be even cheaper.Every 2024 Hyundai Kona Electric still features a single front-mounted electric motor. Previously, every Kona EV had the same powertrain output and battery capacity, but now the base SE alone has 133 horsepower and a 48.6-kWh battery pack; the SEL and Limited pack 201 ponies and a larger 64.8-kWh battery that the EPA estimates will provide up to 261 miles of range. Hyundai claims a DC fast-charge connection will take either battery from 10 to 80 percent in about 43 minutes.Extra Kona Electric ReadingEric 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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    Kinetic Zulu e-Scooter Launched At Rs. 95K – ‘Pay As You Use’ Business Model

    Kinetic ZuluThe 2.27 kWh battery is touted as a service, on Kinetic Zulu electric scooter that has reduced up-front acquisition cost by 35%The Indian electric scooter segment has seen a new entrant in the form of Kinetic Zulu. This is a new electric scooter from Kinetic Green that is based on KG Ener-G battery platform. The company has launched Zulu at an attractive price of Rs. 94,990 (ex-sh). The company claims Zulu is a FAME II compliant high-speed scooter that is the most competitively priced electric scooters in India.Kinetic Zulu e-Scooter LaunchedThe philosophy behind Kinetic Zulu is ‘Planet At Our Heart’. Kinetic promises a compelling product for youth and Gen Z buying their first vehicle and anyone else switching to EVs from ICE vehicles. To enhance its presence and reach as many potential buyers as possible, Kinetic Green is making Zulu available at their dealerships along with leading e-commerce sites like Flipkart and Amazon.Price for Kinetic Zulu is Rs. 94,990 and is launched in six attractive colours – Pixel White, Insta Orange, UTube Red, Black X, FB Blue and Cloud Grey. These names seems to be inspired from multiple gadgets, social media and music platforms like Google Pixel, Instagram, YouTube, X (formerly known as Twitter), FaceBook and SoundCloud.Battery as a service – Pay as you useAt the same stage, Kinetic Green also showcased its new logo. Kinetic is leaning more towards offering battery as a subscription with ‘pay as you use’ model. Kinetic Green mentioned that this model has reduced up-front acquisition costs by 35%. The battery in question is a 2.27 kWh Li-ion unit. Range is 104 km on a single charge and top speed is 60 km/h.#sulukizulu Social Media CampaignKinetic Zulu gets patented oil-cooled active immersion cooling technology. This allows ultra fast charging with 80% coming up in 30 minutes even after 1,20,000 km mileage. Features include front and rear disc brakes, digital speedo, LED DRL, front bag hook and storage compartment, USB charging port and an underseat boot light. As part of package, Kinetic Zulu offers 5 year extended warranty and RSA.Words from the manufacturerSpeaking at the launch, Sulajja Firodia Motwani, Founder and CEO, of Kinetic Green, said, “This is a significant moment for the Kinetic Green family and the EV industry at large. Kinetic Group has been well known and loved by millions for its revolutionary two-wheelers like Kinetic Honda scooter and Kinetic Luna.With the launch of our e-scooter Zulu, Kinetic Green is excited to announce that we will be developing and bringing to our customers a range of 2-wheelers and 3-wheelers in the coming years and now in a “green” avatar. I am blessed and proud to be able to carry ahead the great Kinetic legacy of innovation and service to society, and now adding a new chapter of “sustainable mobility” to it.Kinetic Green’s electric two-wheelers will be zero-emission vehicles, thereby making our planet greener and air cleaner. They will also bring great value and savings to the customers, with very low running costs. We are indeed excited to re-begin the 2-wheeler journey in this new avatar! In addition, our rebranding marks a momentous milestone in our pursuit of innovative and sustainable mobility solutions for the masses. As we enter this era of green technology, the new branding will foster this intent and leadership from the brand.” More