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      Honda 350 Scrambler Render Based On Leaked Sketch – Upcoming Hunter 450 Rival

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      Honda 350 Scrambler Render based on leaked sketchRE Classic 350, Standard Jawa and Jawa 350 are the rivals to Honda CB350 and upcoming Scrambler version will take on Yezdi Scrambler and upcoming Hunter 450Where classic and neo-retro motorcycles are concerned, the market has a massive shift in gravity in favour of Royal Enfield. Honda is expanding its lineup CB350 lineup to incorporate a new Scrambler and an ADV to rival Royal Enfield offerings as seen from patent designs. We rendered what Honda’s 350c Scrambler could look like based on patents.Honda CB350 Scrambler RenderedOne must be wondering Honda already offers a Scrambler-ish offering based on the CB350 platform. Yes, we’re talking about CB350 RS which is also on sale in Japan as GB350 S. This CB350 RS gets unique and sporty front and rear fenders along with a slightly different seat design over H’ness CB350.Honda 350cc Scrambler – Sketch leaksHowever, the latest design patents filed by Honda show many more changes than what we saw between H’ness CB350 and CB350 RS. So, this motorcycle might be positioned as a whole new product, rather than just a variant of CB350. Rendering artist Pratyush Rout has penned down these differences into photo-realistic renders.Honda 350 Scrambler RenderFor starters, Honda’s latest patents show an all-new fuel tank that is much larger than what the company currently offer. It is taller too and has more cuts and creases to achieve a chiseled look. There are decently designed knee recesses on the fuel tank, enabling the rider to grip the motorcycle more efficiently.Honda 350 Scrambler RenderFuel tank has an exposed frame which could be used to expand practicality. With the frame, Honda will not only increase luggage carrying capacity, it also increase versatility by allowing it to carry jerry cans for extra fuel for long escapades into the wilderness. Other notable changes seen in our render that reflect Honda’s design patents are a smaller side body panel and a much lower seat height.Honda 350 Scrambler RenderIn keeping with Honda’s current theme we went with a single-piece ribbed pattern seat design while patent design had split seats. Other than that, our render has almost similar componentry between them and the same 348.36 cc engine that generates around 21 bhp and 30 Nm, mated to a 5-speed gearbox.Honda’s strategy with 350cc Scrambler and ADVRoyal Enfield currently dominates the classic and neo-retro motorcycle genre in India. They even have a massive market share in the ADV segment with New Himalayan. However, most of RE’s sales come from 350cc motorcycles. Over 60K 350cc REs were sold last month accounting for 93% of RE’s total market share.Honda 350 Scrambler RenderBut Royal Enfield’s 350cc portfolio lacks lifestyle vehicles like Scramblers and ADVs. For those, you need to go to 450cc segment which can cost up to Rs. 4 lakh (on road, Karnataka). Honda is tackling Royal Enfield with lifestyle vehicles in the lower 350cc segment that should be less pricey. Yezdi is doing something similar with their portfolio too.Also read – Honda CB 350 ADV rendered. More

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      April 2024 Week 4 Auto News Roundup – Maruti, Mahindra, Honda, Hyundai, Volkswagen, Tata, Toyota, Kia, Nissan, Bajaj, Ultraviolette, BMW, Jeep

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      April 2024 Week 4 Auto News RoundupFourth week of April 2024 witnessed updated model launches, new product unveils and new Global NCAP ratings for popular carsUpcoming products like the biggest Pulsar, Mahindra XUV 3XO and 5-door Thar (Thar Armada) continue to create interest among enthusiasts. Another key development was Global NCAP crash test results for Kia Carens, Honda Amaze and Mahindra Bolero Neo. Some new products were also launched during the fourth week of April 2024.New Maruti Baleno – Ashok MotorsBaleno tops premium hatch sales in FY24Maruti Baleno emerged as the top selling premium hatch in FY24. For the second spot, it was a close contest between Tata Altroz and Hyundai i10. Altroz was ahead by a thin margin of just 174 units. Toyota Glanza was placed in fourth place on the list.Mahindra XUV3XO MileageMahindra XUV 3XO new details emergeXUV 3XO is scheduled for launch on 29th April, 2024. Several new details have emerged such as the largest sunroof in the sub-4-meter SUV segment. XUV 3XO will offer fast acceleration, rated at 0 to 60 km/H in 4.5 seconds. Mileage will be 20.1 km/L.Honda ActivaHonda Activa leads with 43.15% market shareActiva has emerged as the top selling scooter in FY24. Total sales were at 22,54,537 units, registering a YoY growth of 4.88%. Second bestseller was TVS Jupiter, followed by Suzuki Access, TVS Ntorq and Ola S1.VW Taigun GT LineTaigun GT Line, GT Plus Sport launchedNew variants of Volkswagen Taigun have been introduced – Taigun GT Line and Taigun GT Plus Sport. These are priced in the range of Rs 14.08 lakh to Rs 18.53 lakh. Along with an improved driving experience, these new Taigun variants get complimentary 4-year Service Value Package (SVP).Toyota Fortuner Leader EditionNew Fortuner Leader Edition debutsFor the Asian market, Toyota has introduced a new Fortuner Leader Edition. It gets some new design updates and customizations. It will use the same 2.8-litre turbo diesel engine that generates 200 bhp and 500 Nm. Transmission choices include 5-speed manual and 6-speed automatic. Only 4×2 RWD format is available with Fortuner Leader.Car Exports FY 2024Maruti tops FY24 car exportsWith 41.77% market share, Maruti has topped car exports in FY24. Hyundai is the second largest car exporter, with a market share of 24.28%. At number three is Kia, with market share of 7.75%. Volkswagen is fourth, followed by Nissan, Honda, Toyota, Renault, Mahindra and Jeep.Image – Atharva DhuriDzire tops sub-4-meter sedan sales in FY24Maruti Dzire registered sales of 1,64,517 units in FY24. At number two was Hyundai Aura, with sales of 55,215 units. Honda Amaze was third (36,017), followed by Tata Tigor (26,921) in fourth place.Kia Carens crash tested – Global NCAP 2024Kia Carens Global NCAP resultsCarens latest model has been tested by Global NCAP. It has scored 3-star in Adult safety and 5-star in Child safety. Carens has received 22.07 out of 34.00 in Adult safety and 41 out of 49.00 in Child safety.Honda Amaze Crash Test – Global NCAP April 2024Honda Amaze 2 Star Global NCAP ratingIn the latest crash tests, Honda Amaze has received a 2-star rating for Adult safety. Points scored are 27.85 out of 34.00. Child safety rating is zero, with a score of 8.58 out of 49.00 points. Honda said that the low score is primarily due to lack of specific equipment such as side curtain airbags and electronic stability control.Mahindra Bolero Neo Crash Test – Global NCAP April 2024Bolero Neo 1 Star Global NCAP ratingPoints scored are 20.26 out of 34.00 in Adult safety, which leads to 1-star safety rating for Bolero Neo. For Child safety also, the rating is 1 star. Points scored is 12.71 out of 49.00. Across both ratings, the low scores are primarily due to the absence of specific safety equipment.Nissan Sold 1 Lakh MagniteNissan Magnite achieves 1 lakh sales milestoneOne of the consistent performers in the sub-4-meter SUV segment, Nissan Magnite has achieved the 1 lakh sales milestone. It has registered sales of 30k+ units per year for the third consecutive financial year. Magnite is also exported to multiple overseas markets.Top 10 Two Wheelers FY24 Vs FY23Splendor tops FY24 motorcycle salesA total of 32,93,324 units of Splendor were sold in FY24. Splendor commanded a market share of 26.52 percent. At number two in the list is Honda Shine, followed by Bajaj Pulsar, Hero HF Deluxe and Bajaj Platina.2024 Bajaj Pulsar N160Pulsar N160 gets USD forksBajaj has introduced the updated Pulsar N160 at a starting price of Rs 1.39 lakh. One of the key updates is USD forks, which will ensure improved control and handling. Other updates include LED indicators and sportier graphics.Honda Elevate is sold as WRV in JapanHonda Elevate emerges bestseller in JapanIn Japan, Honda Elevate is on sale as the new WR-V. Within a month of launch, bookings have crossed 13,000 units. In comparison, Elevate in India had registered 20k bookings in just 100 days post launch.2024 Bajaj Pulsar 2202024 Bajaj Pulsar 220 updatedNew 2024 Pulsar 220 has started arriving at dealerships. Key updates include a fully digital instrument cluster. It has Bluetooth connectivity for basic phone functions. A USB charging socket has been added in the dashboard area. 2024 Bajaj Pulsar 220 also gets new colours and graphics.Ultraviolette F77 Mach 2 LaunchedUltraviolette F77 Mach 2 debutsUltraviolette has launched the F77 Mach 2 at a starting price of Rs 2.99 lakh. The top-spec Recon variant is available at Rs 3.99 lakh. Both variants have a top speed of 155 km/H. 0 to 60 km/H can be achieved in just 2.8 seconds.BMW i5 M60 xDrive PluggedBMW i5 M60 xDrive launchedBMW has launched the i5 M60 xDrive at Rs 1.20 crore. Across international markets, BMW i5 M60 xDrive takes on rivals such as Tesla Model 3, Audi e-Tron GT, Porsche Taycan and EQE sedan from Mercedes-Benz. BMW i5 M60 xDrive will come to India via CBU route.2024 Jeep Wrangler Launched2024 Jeep Wrangler LaunchedUpdated 2024 Jeep Wrangler is available at a starting price of Rs 67.65 lakh. The trim levels of Unlimited and Rubicon have been retained. The updated kit includes new off-road equipment and new safety features.Mahindra Thar ADASThar 5-door spotted with ADASA test mule of Mahindra Thar 5-door was recently spotted with an ADAS camera setup. ADAS features for Thar 5-door could be similar to that of XUV700. The SUV will also be getting other premium features such as six airbags, 360° camera, front parking sensors and all-4 disc brakes.BYD Ocean M Hot HatchBYD Ocean M Hot Hatch Concept unveiledBYD’s upcoming hatchback based on the Ocean M Hot Hatch Concept will take on rivals such as MG4 and VW ID.3. It will go on sale in China in Q3. BYD will also be looking to introduce the hatch across European markets.Honda Ye S7 and Ye P7 UnveiledHonda Ye S7 and Ye P7 revealedEnthusiasts recently got to see the first real-world images of Honda Ye S7 and Ye P7 compact electric SUVs. These are expected to be launched in China later this year. Both SUVs will be getting a comprehensive range of premium features.Upcoming Bajaj Chetak Cheaper Variant SpiedChetak affordable variant incomingBajaj recently showcased a cheaper version of Chetak to its dealers. As subsidies are getting axed, OEMs are introducing affordable versions to push sales. The same approach is being followed for Chetak. The affordable version of Chetak is expected to be launched at under Rs 1 lakh.New Kia SonetSonet sales cross 4 lakh unitsIn a time period of under 44 months, Kia Sonet has crossed the sales milestone of 4 lakh units. As may be recalled, the SUV was launched in September 2020. Data shows that 63% of customers have opted for sunroof variants.Toyota BZ3C UnveiledToyota showcases two new EVsAt the Beijing Auto Show, Toyota has unveiled the BZ3C and BZ3X EVs. These will be produced by FAW Toyota and GAC Toyota, respectively. Launch in China is expected in 2025. Both SUVs get Lidar module, along with various other premium features. Powertrain details have not been revealed.Toyota BZ3X Unveiled More

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      Hero Sales Breakup March 2024 – Splendor, Deluxe, Passion, Destini, Xtreme 125, Xoom, Mavrick

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      Hero SplendorHero MotoCorp sold over 4.57 lakh units in March 2024 while exports crossed 31k unitsHero MotoCorp sales breakup for March 2024 provides insights into the performance of its various models during the period. Despite a marginal decline in overall sales, certain models showcased remarkable growth, indicating shifting consumer preferences and market dynamics.Hero Sales Breakup March 2024Splendor continues to dominate the sales chart, maintaining its position as the highest-selling model for Hero MotoCorp. However, the month witnessed a slight downturn for the Splendor, with sales figures dropping to 286,138 units compared to the previous year. Following behind is the HF Deluxe, securing the second position with 83,947 units sold. While experiencing a decrease in sales compared to the same period last year, the HF Deluxe remains a popular choice among consumers in the commuter segment.Hero Sales Breakup March 2024A notable highlight in March 2024 sales is the Passion, which witnessed a staggering growth of 439.87% year-over-year. With 22,491 units sold, the Passion’s resurgence indicates a resurgence in demand for this model. The Glamour and Destini 125 also demonstrated significant growth, with sales figures of 17,026 units and 14,143 units, respectively. Both models recorded double-digit growth percentages, reflecting a positive response from consumers.Among the newer additions to Hero MotoCorp’s lineup, the Xtreme 125R and Xtreme 160 / 200 garnered attention with 12,010 units and 2,937 units sold, respectively. These models contributed to the brand’s diversified portfolio and attracted enthusiasts seeking performance-oriented rides. However, not all models experienced growth in sales. The Xpulse 200 and Maestro witnessed declines of 78.21% and 92.50%, respectively, indicating challenges in certain segments of the market.Hero Sales Breakup March 2024Hero MotoCorp Exports March 2024Hero MotoCorp Hunk emerges as the top performer in company’s export lineup, with a staggering 263.17% year-over-year growth. Recording sales of 7,554 units in March 2024, the Hunk solidifies its position as a sought-after model among global consumers.Hero Exports Breakup March 2024Following closely behind is the HF Deluxe, with exports totalling 6,893 units. The model witnessed a commendable growth rate of 21.27% compared to the same period last year, reflecting its popularity in international markets. Another standout performer is the Xpulse 200, which experienced an exceptional growth rate of 324.31%. With 6,144 units exported in March 2024, the Xpulse 200 captivates adventure enthusiasts worldwide.India’a No 1 two wheeler, Splendor also contributes to Hero MotoCorp’s export success, with 3,280 units shipped in March 2024. Despite facing stiff competition, the Splendor maintains its appeal among international consumers, recording a growth rate of 31.04%. Hero Xoom scooter had 2,370 units exported in March 2024.Additionally, models like the Glamour, Maestro, and Karizma make notable contributions to Hero MotoCorp’s export figures, showcasing the brand’s diverse product lineup catered to varied consumer preferences in global markets. However, certain models experienced declines in exports, including the Passion and Pleasure, highlighting the need for targeted strategies to address specific market challenges and preferences.Overall, Hero MotoCorp’s exports witnessed a substantial growth of 87.56%, with a total of 31,158 units shipped in March 2024. The impressive performance underscores the company’s commitment to expanding its presence on the global stage and catering to the diverse needs of international customers. More

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      300cc To 500cc Motorcycle Sales March 2024 – RE, Hero, Honda, Harley, Triumph, KTM, TVS, Yamaha

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      New Triumph 400 – Speedzone MotoringRoyal Enfield’s 350cc range continued to dominate this segment with a combined 80% market share in the segmentThe Indian two wheeler industry continues to grow at a rapid pace with new and updated products being added in quick succession. Two wheeler makers vying for a top spot have been revamping their product strategies and pricing policies and while the motorcycle segment as a whole ended the last month of FY24 on a positive note, particular attention was paid to the 300-500cc segment that has grown by 17.81% on a YoY basis.300cc To 500cc Motorcycle Sales – Dominated by Royal EnfieldThough Royal Enfield continues to be the undisputed champion of this segment, rivals are trying to launch new motorcycles in this segment and eat into their market share. In the past year there have been many additions to the segment, with the new Triumph 400, Harley X440 and Honda CB350. New Hero Mavrick also joined the ranks while Kawasaki brought in several new offerings. There is now the Bajaj Pulsar NS400, RE Classic 350 facelift and Kawasaki 300cc ADV set for launch while Honda too plans a host of new offerings in this segment.300cc To 500cc Motorcycle Sales March 2024Sales of motorcycles in the 300-500cc segment improved to 76,502 units in March 2024, up from 64,937 units sold in March 2023, a volume growth of 11,565 units. MoM sales saw a slight decline by 1.74% when compared to 77,860 units sold in February 2024. Royal Enfield continued to lead with the 300-500cc motorcycle segment with 4 of its models in the top 4 positions. Classic 350 remained a top performer with 25,508 unit sales in March 2024, a 4.26% YoY growth from 24,466 units sold in March 2023. MoM sales however, dipped 9.90% from 28,310 units sold in February 2024. The Classic 350 commands a 33.34% market share.RE Hunter and Bullet followed along with the Meteor 350 in quick succession. Hunter 350cc sales improved by a massive 45.07% in March 2024 to 15,702 units, up from 10,024 units sold in March 2023. It also saw a huge MoM growth by 29.53% to command a 20.52% market share. Bullet 350cc sales on the other hand dipped 5.91% YoY while it also suffered a MoM setback by 19.23% to 11,262 units. Meteor sales grew enormously to 8,963 units, a 44.31% YoY growth while MoM sales also improved by 10.31%.300cc To 500cc Motorcycle Sales March 2024 vs March 2023 – YoY comparisonNext up was the combined Jawa Yezdi retail sales of 2,476 units but lower YoY and MoM sales when compared to 3,325 units and 2,556 units sold in March 2023 and February 2024 respectively. RE once again entered the fray with the Himalayan with 2,216 units sold last month. Sales of this 450cc adventure bike however suffered YoY and MoM setback. Honda H’ness sales also fell to 2,085 units in the past month, a 28.20% YoY decline while MoM sales grew by just 0.63%.300cc To 500cc Motorcycle Sales March 2024 vs Feb 2024 – MoM comparisonLower down the sales list was the Triumph 400 of which 2,042 units were sold last month, a 10.08% MoM growth. However, other relatively new-comers to this list that included the Harley X440 (1,839 units) and Honda CB350 (1,457 units) both saw MoM decline in sales. There was also a YoY and MoM de-growth reported for the KTM 390 (745 units).Motorcycle in Sub-1,000 Units SalesWith the new Hero Mavrick 440 having entered the segment in February 2024, sales touched 568 units in March 2024. There was also the Dominar 400 (478 units), TVS Apache (446 units), Honda CB300 (232 units) and Husqvarna 401 (161 units). It was the Husqvarna 401 that has seen an exemplary MoM growth in sales by 1511.56% from just 64 units sold in February 2024. Aprilia RS457 also saw a huge MoM growth by 2300% to 120 units sold in March 2024 from just 5 units sold in March 2023. The list also included the Kawasaki Ninja 300 (85 unit) Ninja 500 (39 units), Yamaha R3/MT03 (36 units) besides the Honda CB500 (30 units), Kawasaki Eliminator 400 (7 units) and Kawasaki Ninja 400 (5 units). More

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      Toyota Unveils Two New EVs – Launch Expected In 2025

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      Toyota BZ3C UnveiledShowcased at the 2024 Beijing Auto Show, the BZ3C and BZ3X EVs will be manufactured by FAW Toyota and GAC Toyota, respectivelyAs part of its plans to expand its EV portfolio, Toyota is working on two new EVs – BZ3C and BZ3X. These are expected to be launched in China next year. While powertrain details have not been revealed, enthusiasts were able to explore the exteriors and interiors of these EVs at the Beijing Auto Show.Toyota BZ3C – An urban marvelAs may be recalled, the BZ3 name was announced in China in October 2022. It was planned to be Toyota’s first electric sedan. The powertrain for BZ3 was to be developed via a joint collaboration between Toyota and BYD. With the BZ3C now unveiled, it appears that the original name has been transferred for a new line of EVs.Toyota BZ3C ProfileToyota BZ3C is essentially the production version of BZ Sport Crossover Concept that was showcased at the 2023 Shanghai Auto Show. Remarkably, there are very few changes in BZ3C in comparison to the concept. Most of the features have been retained, although some trimming may be done in the production model.As of now, only a few features have been changed. For example, side view cameras seen with the concept have been replaced with more conventional rear-view mirrors. Also, the lower lip at the front is not as sharp as seen in the concept model.Toyota BZ3C InteriorsBZ3C InteriorsBZ3C’s front fascia looks absolutely stunning with a full-width, C-shaped light cluster and a curvy, sculpted bonnet. Some of the features have similarities with Prius, such as the sleek, elegant bumper. Both the BZ3C and BZ3X are equipped with Lidar mounted on the roof. BZ3C has a crossover design and feels like an electric version of Toyota C-HR.Side profile is quite impactful with large, low-drag alloy wheels and flush door handles. At the rear, the prominent spoiler lip adds to the EVs sporty persona. The lighting setup at the rear is similar to that at the front.Toyota BZ3C DashboardInside, BZ3C has a mesmerizing racy red theme. It is accentuated with yellow LED lighting across the dash, doors and central console. There’s a large touchscreen infotainment system and a digital instrument cluster. BZ3C will be manufactured by FAW Toyota, a joint venture between China-based FAW Group and Toyota.Toyota BZ3X UnveiledToyota BZ3X – Classic eleganceBZ3X is essentially the production version of BZ FlexSpace Concept that was unveiled last year. As compared to the BZ3C, the BZ3X has more conventional vibes. It makes a powerful street presence and seems to focus on space and utility. The relatively sober profile indicates that this model could be closer to production.Toyota BZ3X ProfileSome of the key highlights of BZ3X include full-width LED DRLs on top, lower mounted LED headlamps and prominent bumper. Side profile has thick body cladding, large spoke-styled alloy wheels, flush door handles and blacked-out roof and pillars. At the rear, key highlights include a full width lighting setup and chunky bumper.Toyota BZ3X InteriorsInside, BZ3X gets a large touchscreen, a compact instrument cluster and a massive sunroof. The BZ3X EV will be manufactured by GAC Toyota. It is a joint venture between China-based GAC Group and Toyota.Toyota BZ3X Dashboard More

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      2024 Bajaj Pulsar RS200 Launch After P400 – LED, Digi Console, Bluetooth, USD

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      Image for illustration. Credit – Suneesh SA comprehensive range of updates for Bajaj Pulsar RS200 will enable improved competencies against rivals Hero Karizma XMR and Suzuki Gixxer SF 250As part of its ongoing initiative to update the Pulsar range, Bajaj is working on the new 2024 version of Pulsar RS200. While an exact launch timeline is not available, the updated bike is expected to be launched in the coming months. Multiple new features are likely to be introduced for 2024 Pulsar RS200.New Bajaj Pulsar RS200 – Key UpdatesIt will be great if Pulsar RS200 gets some design changes. The current model has a sporty profile, but there’s scope for improvement in line with evolving design aesthetics. A sportier fairing, along with some new colours and graphics can significantly transform the Pulsar RS200.2024 Bajaj Pulsar RS 200 to get digital speedo from NS 200In terms of functional updates, 2024 Pulsar RS200 is expected to get a LED headlamp. Another key update can be USD forks at front. Bajaj has introduced USD forks with multiple Pulsar bikes, the most recent being Pulsar N160.Tech kit can be upgraded with a full digital instrument console. It will have Bluetooth connectivity, allowing users to pair their smartphones to access a range of functions. Apart from the basic calls, SMS and music functions, the new digital console can also get turn-by-turn navigation.Existing Bajaj Pulsar RS 200. Image – MotoBike2024 Bajaj Pulsar RS200 – Performance, specsEngine will be the same as earlier, a 199.5 cc, liquid cooled unit that delivers 24.5 PS and 18.7 Nm. In comparison, Karizma XMR has a 210cc engine that makes 25.5 PS and 20.4 Nm. Gixxer 250 has a 249cc engine that churns out 26.5 PS and 22.2 Nm. Pulsar RS200 has 17-inch wheels, shod with 100/80 front and 130/70 rear tyres. At rear, the Nitrox mono shock absorber with Canister will be carried forward.Bajaj Pulsar 400 RenderPulsar RS200 has 300 mm and 230 mm disc brakes at front and rear, respectively. Dual-channel ABS is offered as standard. It remains to be seen if ABS ride modes will be introduced with new Pulsar RS200. This feature can be borrowed from Pulsar N250 that has ABS ride modes of Road, Rain and Offroad. Traction control is another possibility for new Pulsar RS200.2024 Pulsar RS200 priceWith the updates, new Bajaj Pulsar RS200 is expected to have a slightly higher pricing. The existing model is available at a starting price of Rs 1.73 lakh. Even with the price hike, Bajaj Pulsar RS200 will continue to be one of the most affordable fully-faired bikes in its class. Rival Hero Karizma XMR is available at a starting price of Rs 1.80 lakh, whereas Suzuki Gixxer SF 250 starts at Rs 1.81 lakh.In May, Bajaj will also launch the biggest Pulsar – the Pulsar 400. Along with updating the Pulsar range, Bajaj is also working on various other new products. For example, there’s a new CNG commuter bike under development. In the EV segment, Bajaj is expected to launch a new, affordable version of Chetak electric scooter. Bajaj is also evaluating possibilities of launching a hydrogen-powered Chetak.Source More

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      Bajaj Chetak Cheaper Variant With Less Features – Showcased To Dealers Before Launch

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      Upcoming Bajaj Chetak Cheaper Variant SpiedWhen launched, this new Bajaj Chetak variant will rival the Ola S1 X+, Ather Rizta, TVS iQube, Simple Dot One and the likesBajaj Chetak is developing a Hydrogen-powered vehicle for the far future. But the company needs to up its EV game today to carve out an affordable variant to rival the likes of Ola S1 X+. That’s exactly what Bajaj is doing. A more affordable variant with a dedicated electric drive has leaked ahead of launch. Let’s take a look at what’s what.New Bajaj Chetak Variant Spied Up CloseEV onslaught in India is getting fiercer by the day. More so with electric scooters that have seen the greatest acceptance owing to their unisex appeal. Bajaj has been among the first premium electric mobility solutions providers in India with its subsidiary, Chetak Technology. With time, Bajaj has thoroughly overhauled Chetak in-keeping with 2024 trends.Affordable Bajaj Chetak VariantHowever, there is another trend that is gaining more prominence in India. Which is affordable electric scooters. Bajaj is taking a shot at this growing genre with an affordable variant of its Chetak. Ahead of launch, it has been showcased to dealers. New spy shots have leaked, which uncover most attributes expected with this upcoming vehicle.Affordable Chetak ConsoleThere seems to be new colours with this cheaper variant that are a lot more vibrant and colourful. In pictures, we can see a very bright Cyan shade that should appeal to young buyers looking to express their personality. Major hardware changes and a down-sized features list help to adhere to an affordable price point positioned below Urbane variant.Affordable Chetak SwitchgearGone are alloy wheels and disc brakes and we can see stylised steel wheels and drum brakes in their place. The fully digital TFT Instrument screen from Chetak Premium is replaced with a circular LCD unit that Chetak originally debuted with. Lockable glovebox makes way to two open cavities on this new variant.The Key slot for a smart key has been replaced with a conventional keyhole. Under seat storage looks like it is similar to current Chetak Urbane and Premium on sale. Also similar is the single-sided suspension systems at the front and back.Affordable Chetak Cubby SpaceRange, Battery and SpecsWhere powertrain is concerned, Bajaj Chetak cheaper variant seems to be powered by a mid-drive motor. This is interesting because earlier Chetak test samples were spotted with rear hub motor for cost-effectiveness. Battery is likely to be the same 2.9 kWh unit that is offered with Chetak Urbane promising a range of 113 km. Or something smaller still.For reference, top-spec Chetak Premium gets a larger 3.2 kWh battery promising a range of 126 km on a single charge. Prices for Chetak start from Rs. 1.23 lakh (ex-sh) for base Urbane and Rs. 1.47 lakh (ex-sh) for top-spec Premium variant. When launched, this new affordable Bajaj Chetak variant might cost under Rs. 1 lakh (ex-sh).Affordable Chetak StorageAlso read – Honda Electric Activa launch likely in 2025Source More

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      Honda Ye S7 And Ye P7 Real-World Images Out – Electric Compact SUVs

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      Honda Ye S7 and Ye P7 UnveiledBoth Honda Ye S7 and Ye P7 are similar where hardware is concerned and are largely the same vehicles, but differ in stylingFirst real-world images of Honda’s newest Ye eSUV lineup for China have been revealed from the stage. These cars were recently unveiled and are expected to go on sale in China by the end of 2024. These vehicles feature an almost identical profile along and interiors while differing in fascia and rear section for unique stylistic propositions.Honda Ye S7 And Ye P7 Real-World Images OutRemember Honda e:NS2 and e:NP2 concept vehicles that Honda showcased at 2023 Shanghai Auto Show? They were supposed to evolve into production-spec models by mid 2024 and launch by the end of 2024. Right on time, Honda has translated e:NS2 and e:NP2 concepts into Ye S7 and Ye P7 electric SUVs respectively.Honda Ye S7 FasciaHonda Ye S7 RearDesign themes from showcased concepts have successfully made it to production-spec vehicles. In this sense, Honda Ye S7 gets a much more sporty design and appeal with arrow-like Y-shaped DRL elements at the front and back. Just like e:NS2 concept. Horizontal slats in lower grill and connecting LED DRL from e:NS2 have made it to Ye S7 as well.Wheels from concept vehicle have made it to production too, which is a 5-spoke design with punched-in-like cut-outs. Instead of ORVMs, we get cameras. Door handles are flush to the body. to increase aerodynamic efficiency. Overall silhouette is quite strong and adheres to tough SUV aesthetics with a slight sloping roofline.Honda Ye P7 FasciaHonda Ye P7 RearWhere Ye S7 positions itself as the sporty offering, Ye P7 appears to be far more sophisticated, mature and premium. While side profile and wheel designs are identical, fascia and rear section differ vastly. Ye P7 sticks to classic Honda design elements with a thick bar connecting the headlights. Just like in e:NP2 concept.Headlights and tail lights get C-shaped LED elements that look nice and premium. Lower grill is a lot more conservative and finished in gloss black. Rear tailgate is different from what we saw in Ye S7 and is less angular and a lot more soothing. Same goes for roof spoiler rear bumper and other attributes. New Honda logo and illuminated HONDA lettering on front fenders were common between the two.Honda Ye S7 profileHonda Ye P7 profileFresh new interiorHonda Ye S7 and Ye P7 have the same interiors but different finishes and colour schemes. While Ye S7 gets white on a light grey colour scheme, Ye P7 gets a darker colour scheme that exudes sportiness. The three-spoke steering wheel gets HONDA lettering in the middle. Overall layout is smart.There are two displays for rear view camera feed – one on each door. The instrument screen is sleek and wide, lending a sportscar vibe, whereas the centre infotainment screen is massive. We like the new design direction that Honda’s interiors are taking. Except for the larger display and fewer buttons, this is a well-thought-out cabin.Honda Ye S7 InteriorHonda Ye P7 InteriorBuilt on W platform, Honda is offering both single-motor RWD and dual-motor AWD layouts with batteries from CATL. It has to be noted that Ye S7 is sold by Dongfeng Honda and Ye P7 is sold by GAC Honda. Both are China-only as of now with possibilities to break out of the dragon land in the future.Also read – Honda Amaze scored 2 Stars in GNCAPYe S7 Image source Ye S7 Image source More