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    2W Retail Sales November 2023 – Hero, Honda, TVS, Bajaj, Royal Enfield

    Hero Karizma XMR 2102W retail sales November 2023 grew 21.08 percent YoY and 49.05 percent MoMThe 2W retail sales November 2023, as announced by Federation of Automobile Dealers Associations (FADA), for November 2023 saw a total of 22,47,366 units sold. This was a growth of 21.08 percent when compared to 18,56,108 units sold in November 2022. It was also a staggering MoM growth of 49.05 percent as against 15,07,756 units sold in October 2023, the month in which the segment recorded lower sales despite it being a festive month.2W Retail Sales November 2023Positive 2W sales of 22.47 units were seen surpassing previous highest recorded in March 2020 when sales had stood at 20.7 lakh units. Every two wheeler maker on this list has seen outstanding YoY growth in November 2023 except Piaggio and Classic Legends.Hero MotoCorp topped the list with 8,02,234 units sold in the past month, up from 6,37,534 units sold in November 2022 to command a 35.70 percent market share. It was also a significant growth over 4,17,750 units sold in October 2023 marking a near 50% MoM growth.At No. 2 was Honda with 5,12,865 units sold last month, up from 4,63,145 units sold in November 2023. Market share, however, dipped to 22.82 percent from 24.95 percent YoY. Honda has just launched the new Honda CB350, a retro-styled motorcycle in two variants – DLX and DLX PRO. It will take on the Royal Enfield Classic 350 in its segment.2W Retail Sales November 2023TVS Motor retail sales also improved to 3,65,295 units in the past month, up from 2,71,925 units sold in November 2022. It was also significant MoM growth from 2,51,435 units sold in October 2023.YoY growth in retail sales was also seen by Bajaj Auto Group with 2,74,181 units sold in the last month, up from 2,11,391 units sold in November 2022. Bajaj Auto is now testing the new Pulsar P125 which has been recently spied with fresh feature and engine updates. Once launched, it will rival TVS Raider 125, Honda SP 125 and Hero’s Glamour XTEC.Suzuki, Royal Enfield, YamahaThere was also Suzuki Motorcycle India at No. 5 with 82,443 units sold in November 2023 with a 3.67 percent market share. It was above 72,466 units sold in November 2022. Suzuki also reported a MoM growth from 79,782 units sold in October 2023.Royal Enfield retail sales also grew to 81,319 units in November 2023 to command a 3.62 percent market share, up from 70,139 units sold in November 2022 when market share had been at 3.78 percent. The company has introduced the new Reown outlet for sales, purchase and exchange of pre-owned RE bikes.With 63,781 unit sales in November 2023, India Yamaha Motors reported YoY growth from 70,139 units sold in November 2022 while MoM sales also grew from 55,289 units sold in October 2023.Electric 2W Retail Sales November 2023In the electric two wheeler segment, it was Ola Electric that saw the most retail sales at 29,808 units in the past month. This was over 16,385 units sold in November 2022. Ola Electric has introduced special discounts through December 2023 with ‘December to Remember’ bringing the S1 X+ down by Rs 20,000. With this discount, the S1 X+ which was originally priced at Rs 1,09,999 is currently being offered at Rs 89,999 (ex-showroom).Ather retail sales were up at 9,171 units last month from 7,839 units sold in November 2022 while Greaves Electric has seen outstanding sales growth to 4,411 units in November 2023 from 189 units sold in November 2022.Sales of Piaggio (3,423 units) and Classic Legends (3,166) dipped on a YoY basis. There had been 3,711 units and 3,727 units sold by these two wheeler makers in November 2022. Other two-wheeler OEMs on this list have reported a drastic dip in retail sales down to 15,269 units in November 2023 from 43,863 units sold in November 2022. More

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    EVolutionary Strategy – Hero MotoCorp and Ather Energy

    Ather Electric ScooterPublic Charging Infrastructure Evolution – Interoperable and FastProgressive collaboration between Hero MotoCorp and Ather Energy is set to expand EV public charging infrastructure across 100 cities. And could be a transformative moment for the Indian electric vehicle (EV) industry. This dynamic partnership aims to accommodate EV owners. And addresses concerns related to quick and convenient charging. Possibly almost anywhere.LECCS Breakthrough: Hero and Ather’s ConnectorThe collaboration’s centrepiece is the development of Light Electric Combined Charging System (LECCS). A system that has received approval from the Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS). This modern grid integrates AC and DC combined charging connectors.Hero Vida V1 Pro Global DebutAt the heart of this collaboration is the plan to establish 1900 fast-charging points strategically. A widespread network that focuses on delivering a qualitative charging experience. Ather and My VIDA apps, designed with user-centric interfaces, provide EV users with info as needed. These apps play a pivotal role in helping users navigate to charging stations.The Scale of India’s EV Charging EcosystemAccessibility to original equipment manufacturers (OEMs) adopting the LECCS standard, contribute to unifying the charging infrastructure. It not only fosters collaboration but also delivers convenience to EV users. LECCS is tenacious in its contribution to the expansion of public charging infrastructure. And looks set to grow as an agile response to the growing demands of the EV market.Overall exponential growth in charging infrastructure through the efforts of many OEMs and private players is not just a numerical milestone. It represents a progression chart in the evolution of EV infrastructure in India.Hero and Ather’s 1900-Point EV Power PlayThe selection of 100 cities for LECCS expansion is not arbitrary but a deliberate and strategic choice. And targets collaborative commitment to creating a comprehensive and accessible charging network. One that caters to expected growth in EV adoption.As India takes small steps towards an electric future, the Hero MotoCorp and Ather Energy partnership stands as a beacon of progress. A harmonious and unifying effort towards establishing the largest EV charging ecosystem. The collaboration is not merely a confluence; but one that aims to find a seat at the top. More

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    Kia K-Charge introduced Across 1,000 charging stations in India

    Kia K-Charge ServicesK-Charge services are offered via the ‘MyKia’ app, are free for 3 months for Kia customers and can also be availed by non-Kia customersOne of the major concerns of an electric vehicle user is its range. Range anxieties or being caught out of battery power has deterred many a buyer, steering them towards the more tried and tested petrol/diesel powered vehicles. Lack of ample electric charging stations, especially in rural and semi urban areas are a major concern that needs to be tackled prior to the wholehearted acceptance of EVs in the country.Kia India introduces K-Charge Charging Initiative Accessibility for Every EV UserKia India has announced a special charging initiative with K-Charge being offered for users of the EV6 electric vehicle in India. This new K-Charge initiative is being offered across 1000+ charging stations in the country. This initiative will be offered to all Kia customers free of charge for 3 months while non Kia customers can also avail of the services.Kia India’s K-Charge can be accessed via the ‘MyKia’ App and is done by NumoCity Technologies – a leading CMS service provider. It will help to alleviate EV users range anxieties. This facility is also an industry first where it is also being offered to non-Kia users and via Relux Charging Stations in a special tie up for free 3 months charging to Kia EV6 owners.For the K-Charge services, Kia India has partnered with CPOs (Charge Point Operators) – Statiq, Charge Zone, Relux Electric, Lion Charge and E-Fill chargers to expand EV infrastructure. K-Charge offers the following services via the MyKia App. It aids EV users to access a range of EV services, view and locate charging stations through a Made-in-India map service provider – Map My India, check charging slots and locate the closest charging station.New Kia EV6Payments can also be made via the wallet service within the app. K-Charge offers several benefits to customers. Apart from allowing them more confidence in terms of range, the facility also removes the need to rely on external applications thereby enhancing the vehicle ownership experience.Kia India K-Charge ConvenienceThe Kia EV6, is currently the only electric vehicle in the company portfolio as on date even as the EV5 electric SUV has also made its debut in August 2023with an expected launch in January 2025. With the ‘EV for All,’ initiative, Kia India is aiming to achieve annual sales target of one million EVs by 2026. It will take this expansion plan further to target 1.6 million units annually by 2030.The Kia EV6 facelift is also on test, debut of which could take place in early 2024. Though under heavy camouflage, the new EV6 is sure to come in with some feature update which could include dual-tone alloy wheels, new headlight and taillight clusters along with some new exterior colour options. It will, however, continue to draw power via the same 77.4 kWh battery pack mated to electric motors which on the RWD version offers 266 hp power and 350 Nm torque going up to 321 hp and 605 Nm on the AWD version. Claimed range is at 708 kms on full charge.Words from the manufacturerAs stated by Mr. Hardeep Singh Brar, National Head of Sales and Marketing – “K-Charge is not just a convenience initiative for our customers but a step towards making sustainable mobility convenient and accessible for everyone. We strongly believe that the technology transition towards a complete EV future ought to be smooth, and the K-Charge, integrated into the ‘MyKia’ app, is a well-thought-out step in that direction.With this aim, we will continue our efforts towards expanding the charging network through the onboarding of new CPOs in the future. We are confident that seamless, user-friendly solutions like these will play a pivotal role in accelerating the adoption of electric vehicles in India.” More

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    Benelli BKX 300 Debuts – New ADV Bike, Launch In 2024

    Benelli BKX 300 DebutsA lightweight, versatile machine, Benelli BKX 300 promises fun rides across off-road tracks as well as asphalt roadsFor budding enthusiasts, Benelli has unveiled an all-new BKX 300 adventure bike. It is primarily targeted at the younger generation of riders who have a greater propensity to move freely and explore new routes. Benelli BKX 300 will go on sale in China in 2024. It will also be available in multiple European markets.Benelli BKX 300 Debuts – Key featuresBenelli BKX 300 has a striking profile that instantly gets one’s attention. The bike has been designed at Benelli Style Centre in Pesaro, Italy. Overall styling is a fusion of conventional ADV signatures and progressive, futuristic design elements.Some of the key highlights include an aggressive front fascia, sharp headlamp with DRLs, large side panels, hand guards, sculpted fuel tank, rally-style seat and under seat exhaust. A dual-tone colour theme of white and fluorescent yellow brings more dynamism to the bike.Benelli has also introduced a road variant named BKX 300 S. It is based on the same platform, but has a distinct profile. BKX 300 S is more agile and lightweight, as it gets minimal bodywork. Both bikes are equipped with an LCD instrument display.Benelli BKX 300 ProfileBenelli BKX 300 specs, performancePowering Benelli BKX 300 is a brand new 292.4 cc, liquid cooled, four-stroke single-cylinder engine. It generates 29.2 PS of max power and 24.5 Nm of peak torque. The engine is mated to a 6-speed gearbox. The new 292.4 cc engine is an evolved version of the existing 250cc engine in use with Benelli bikes such as TRK 251 and Leoncino 250.A number of tweaks have been performed in the engine architecture, covering parts such as intake and exhaust valves, combustion chamber and transmission components. The counter balance shaft has been redesigned in order to increase reliability and reduce vibrations. An entirely new exhaust system has been used, focused on achieving a desirable torque curve.Benelli BKX 300 comes with a slipper clutch for smoother gear shifts. The bike utilizes a Trellis frame, integrated with 41mm USD forks at front, offering 180 mm of travel. At rear, the bike has a swingarm and mono-shock suspension with 180 mm of travel. The bike uses 19-inch and 17-inch wheels at front and rear, respectively.Benelli BKX 300These are shod with 100/90 and 140/80 tyres. Braking duties are performed by 280 mm and 240 mm discs at front and rear, respectively. Dual-channel ABS is offered as standard. Benelli BKX 300 weighs 165 kg and has ground clearance of 220 mm.Will Benelli BKX 300 launch in India?The bike complies with Euro 5+ emission norms, which makes it India-ready. Whether or not it is launched here remains to be seen. Demand for entry-level ADVs is on the rise in India. Benelli BKX 300 can be a good option, especially if made available at an affordable price point. If launched here, Benelli BKX 300 will take on rivals such as Himalayan 411, Yezdi Adventure and BMW G310GS. More

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    Updated 2024 Kawasaki W175 Could Launch At India Bike Week

    2024 Kawasaki W175Kawasaki W175 will target a niche customer base instead of directly rivalling larger 300-400cc retro motorcyclesIf we consider the retro motorcycle segment, quite a few options start from 300cc. Some popular names include Royal Enfield Classic 350 and Meteor 350, recently launched Honda CB350, Jawa, Yezdi and Benelli Imperiale 400. Customers looking for a smaller capacity classic motorcycle would have to look at updated 2024 Kawasaki W175 to be launched at India Bike Week 2023.2024 Kawasaki W175 – Expected changesAs part of the 2024 update, Kawasaki W175 gets a few cosmetic updates. These updates have been teased by Kawasaki on a mysterious veiled motorcycle. New reports suggest that these updates revolve around 2024 Kawasaki W175 that will launch in India on 10th anniversary of India Bike Week held at Vagator, Goa on 8th December, 2023.As part of the update, we can see an alloy wheel with sporty pinstripes that replace the old wire-spoke unit of current model. We can expect tubeless tyres with alloy wheels, which is an added benefit over tube-type tyres. Kawasaki might offer new colours as well. W175 is locally manufactured in India and doesn’t enjoy a lot of popularity. Revised pricing should help 2024 Kawasaki W175’s cause. Currently, it costs between Rs. 1.47 lakh and Rs. 1.49 lakh (ex-sh).Available in Asian markets such as Indonesia and Thailand, Kawasaki W175 has a simple, yet elegant design. Round headlamp with chrome wrap, round ORVMs, fork gaiters, teardrop-shaped fuel tank and turn indicators, single-piece seat and broad rear fenders. Handlebars are ergonomically placed and footpegs are just below the front seat. These features should ensure comfortable rides for most users.Current Kawasaki W175Design and specsPowering W175 is a 177 cc, air-cooled motor capable of generating 13 ps of max power at 7500 rpm and 13.2 Nm of peak torque at 6000 rpm. It is mated to a 5-speed transmission. Power and torque output could be slightly different for BS6 version of this engine.Suspension system comprises 30mm telescopic front forks and swingarm dual shock absorbers with adjustable spring preload at the rear. Braking duties are performed by 220mm disc at the front and 110 mm drum brake at rear. Another thing that can work to W175’s advantage is its handling.The bike weighs 135 kg, which is much lighter than larger capacity retro-themed motorcycles. W175 can be expected to perform with greater agility in city traffic conditions. It could make daily commuting a lot more fun and comfortable. Folks looking to try something new or a smaller-capacity retro motorcycle could go for Kawasaki W175.However, considering the limited number of Kawasaki dealerships in the country, it will be challenging to unlock W175’s full potential. This bike can generate sales in smaller towns and cities. But currently Kawasaki dealerships are largely available only in prominent cities. It remains to be seen if Kawasaki has some special plans to make W175 available at more locations across the country.Source More

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    Honda CB350, CB350RS Brake Light, Bank Angle Sensor Recall

    File photo of CB350 at service. Image – Abhinav Bhatt.Honda will be providing free replacement of affected parts, irrespective of the bike’s warranty statusFor H’ness CB350 and CB350RS motorcycle users, Honda has announced a recall for issues related to the brake light and bank angle sensor. The recall is applicable on CB350 and CB350RS units manufactured within a specific timeframe. Repair and replacement work will commence from the second week of December. It will be carried out at BigWing dealerships.Honda CB350, CB350RS rear stop light switch recallThe rear stop light switch issue impacts CB350 and CB350RS units manufactured between the period October 2020 and January 2023. It has been noted that the issue is due to the rubber parts used in the rear stop light switch. It is linked to an improper manufacturing process being used for making the rubber parts. Due to the defect, the rubber parts become weak and develop cracks. This can lead to entry of water and moisture, resulting in corrosion inside the switch. Depending on the level of corrosion, the switch can start to malfunction.Honda CB350, CB350RS bank angle sensor recallThe bank angle sensor issue has been linked to improper sealing and subsequent entry of water into the sensor. It has been found that gaps were created in the sensor body sealing due to inappropriate moulding procedure. When water enters the sensor housing, it can lead to malfunction. In worst cases, the vehicle may stall unexpectedly. The bank angle sensor recall applies to CB350 and CB350RS units manufactured between October 2020 to December 2021.Honda’s recall for CB350 and CB350RS involving rear stop light switch and bank angle sensor has been issued as a precautionary measure. It is part of Honda’s endeavour to work proactively in the interest of its customers. The recall will ensure a hassle-free experience and help build trust and confidence among the customers.Inspection and replacement of the rear stop light switch and bank angle sensor will be done at Honda BigWing dealerships. The entire process will take around an hour’s time. It will be done free of cost, irrespective of whether the bike’s warranty is active or not. CB350 and CB350RS owners can visit Honda’s recall page to know if their bikes are covered under the recall. This can be done using the bike’s VIN number. Honda has requested users to take prior appointment for getting the faulty parts replaced.Second recall for CB350This is the second time a recall has been issued for Honda CB350. The earlier recall was in March 2021, around six months after the bike’s launch in October 2020. The earlier recall was linked to a defective transmission component. Units of CB350 manufactured between November 25th and December 12th 2020 were impacted by the issue. The defect was caused due to the use of a wrong grade of material during production. The problem was fixed free of cost for all affected units of CB350. More

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    Genesis and Design House Bulgari Debut Gran Turismo Concepts

    Since 2013, the Vision Gran Turismo series has been churning out eye-catching virtual supercars that can only be driven in the video game, and now two more join the roster.The Genesis X Gran Berlinetta is a sleek coupe powered by a hybrid V-6 powertrain churning out a total of 1071 horsepower and 986 pound-feet of torque.The Bulgari Aluminium Vision Gran Turismo draws inspiration from one of the company’s watches and wears a roofless barchetta body reminiscent of 1970s concept cars.Way back in 2013—when Macklemore’s “Thrift Shop” was dominating airwaves, Barack Obama was president, and the youths were saying “swag” instead of “drip”—the racing video game Gran Turismo launched a series of virtual supercars designed by real-world automakers that could only be driven within the digital confines of the game. Vision Gran Turismo concepts have continued to trickle out over the years, and now two new entries have been revealed: the Genesis X Gran Berlinetta and a surprising entry from luxury fashion house Bulgari, stylized as the Bvlgari Aluminium Vision Gran Turismo. Genesis’s Sinuous SupercarGran TurismoThe slinky Genesis X Gran Berlinetta feels like a more extreme evolution of the stunning Essentia concept from 2018, with a low and wide stance and the latest version of the company’s “two lines” lighting motif first seen on the 2022 X Speedium Coupe concept. The smooth bodywork is punctuated by aerodynamic slashes and scoops, with the wraparound taillights poking through the ovoid rear fascia that swirls upward into a squat rear wing. Genesis says the X Gran Berlinetta has a drag coefficient of 0.34.Gran TurismoThe cabin is minimalistic, with a screen stretching across the dashboard and just a couple of physical dials that feature the same knurled metal finish seen inside Genesis production cars. A yoke-style steering wheel features a smaller, secondary screen and two dials, one to control the level of traction control and one to tune the amount of ABS intervention. The door panels and center console are wrapped in quilted leather, and the seats have a serious amount of bolstering.Gran TurismoSurprisingly for a car revealed in 2023, the X Gran Berlinetta is not electric. Instead, power is derived from a front-mid-mounted V-6 from Hyundai’s Lambda engine family, mated to a hybrid system. The V-6 is said to rev all the way to 10,000 rpm, pushing out 870 horsepower and 790 pound-feet of torque on its own. An electric motor from a company called YASA, which has seen its motors used in Ferrari’s SF90 Stradale and 296GTB, contributes 201 hp and 196 pound-feet, pushing total output to 1071 ponies and 986 pound-feet. No performance metrics were quoted, but we’d bet it’s pretty darn quick.The Fashionista’s Track ToyGran TurismoThe second new Vision GT concept comes from Bulgari, and yes, that is the same Bulgari known for high-end watches, jewelry, fragrances, and other luxury goods. The company’s first automotive venture, the Bulgari Aluminium Vision Gran Turismo, sports a chunky, wedge-like speedster body that feels reminiscent of 1970s concepts like the Alfa Romeo 33 Spider Cuneo. There’s also a hint of the roofless Pininfarina B95 revealed earlier this year. The design, said to be inspired by the Bulgari Aluminium watch from 1998, features crisp creases and simple shapes to create a bold and assertive look. Gran TurismoTwo thin LED strips flank a single bank of headlights that sit in the middle of the car and appear to be revealed by a fold-down panel, very similar to the setup seen on the Aston Martin Bulldog concept. The wheels feature blocky aerodynamic covers, and the brushed aluminum look gives the concept a DeLorean-like retro-futuristic vibe. The bucket seats and dials wear yellow accents, and aluminum also appears across the dashboard and steering wheel.Gran TurismoNo performance specifications were provided, but given the lack of openings in the Bulgari’s bodywork, we would have to imagine it uses an electric powertrain. The design was a partnership between Bulgari’s product creation executive director, Fabrizio Buonamassa Stigliani, and Fabio Filippini, former design director for Pininfarina who penned vehicles like the Sergio concept (later put into limited production by Ferrari) and another Vision Gran Turismo car, the Fittipaldi EF7.The Genesis X Gran Berlinetta will be added to Gran Turismo 7 in January, while the Bulgari Aluminium Vision Gran Turismo will join the game’s roster later in 2024. The Bulgari is the first Vision Gran Turismo from a non-car company, although two others have been teased in the past. Nike and Jordan have been listed on the Vision Gran Turismo site since 2013, and while a teaser sketch of the Nike exists, these concepts have yet to materialize. More Wild Vision GT CarsAssociate News EditorCaleb Miller began blogging about cars at 13 years old, and he realized his dream of writing for a car magazine after graduating from Carnegie Mellon University and joining the Car and Driver team. He loves quirky and obscure autos, aiming to one day own something bizarre like a Nissan S-Cargo, and is an avid motorsports fan. More

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    1100th Hyundai Ioniq 5 EV Delivered To Shah Rukh Khan

    1100th Hyundai Ioniq 5 EV Delivered To Shah Rukh KhanThe all-electric Ioniq 5 was presented to Bollywood actor Shah Rukh Khan in celebration of his 25-year-long association with the brand as ambassadorThe all-electric Hyundai Ioniq 5 became the first electric car in the lineup of Bollywood actor Shah Rukh Khan’s extensive lineup of luxury vehicles. The 1100th Ioniq 5 car for India, was presented to the actor who has been brand ambassador of Hyundai Motor India Ltd (HMIL) ever since it first began operations 25 years ago.Hyundai Ioniq 5 – Flagship EVThe 1100th Ioniq 5 was handed over the Khan at a presentation ceremony wherein Unsoo Kim, MD and CEO of Hyundai Motor India Ltd., expressed his gratitude to the Bollywood superstar was his continued support and trust in the company. It became the first ever electric car added to Shah Rukh Khan’s personal collection.Shah Rukh Khan also expressed his honour to receive this all-electric Hyundai Ioniq 5 which boasts of a unique design and premium features. Hyundai Ioniq 5, Hyundai’s second EV offering in India, following the Kona Electric, was introduced at the 2023 Auto Expo earlier this year.It is an all-electric, zero-emission crossover SUV that is positioned on the much acclaimed E-GMP platform. Brought into India via the CKD route, sales have crossed the 1000 unit mark. The Hyundai Ioniq 5, available in a top-spec RWD version, is priced at Rs 45.95 lakh (ex-showroom).The Hyundai Ioniq 5 draws its power via 72.6 kWh battery pack sending power to its electric motor to produce 216 hp power and 350 Nm torque. The electric crossover commands an ARAI-certified drive range of 631 km on full charge and can be charged via a 350 kW DC fast charger from 10-80 percent in 18 minutes.Hyundai Ioniq 5 –Dimensions, Features, Colour OptionsHyundai Ioniq 5 is positioned on the Electric-Global Modular Platform. It measures 4,635mm on length, 1,890mm in width and 1,625mm in height, with a 3,000mm long wheelbase. This GMP platform offers the Ioniq 5 better speed stability, cornering prowess as well as enhances driving dynamics while its cabin is large and spacious.Offered in exterior colour options of Gravity Gold Matte, Optic White and Midnight Black Pearl, the Hyundai Ioniq 5 sports a clamshell bonnet, LED headlamps, flush door handles and gets distinctive creases on its exterior while it rides on 20-inch alloy wheels. Towards the rear, LED tail lamps and LED high mount stop lamps add to its sporty appeal while features include a 12.3-inch instrument console and 12.3-inch touchscreen infotainment system.Hyundai Ioniq 5 also receives an 8-speaker premium Bose sound system, dual-zone climate controls, ventilated seating and an automatic tailgate. Safety is via Level 2 ADAS, 6 airbags, electronic stability control and ABS with EBD. Hyundai Ioniq 5 currently has the Kia EV6 as its only competition in India but is soon to face up with the upcoming Skoda Enyaq iV, Volvo XC40 Recharge and BMW i4. The company is also actively testing the Ioniq 7, though launch in India is not yet confirmed. More