More stories

  • in

    Tata Punch EV Gearbox Stuck – Replacement Offered Also Has Fault, Claims Owner

    Tata Punch EV owner sharesTata Punch EV owner claims that his brand new EV was faulty and so was the replacement EVTata Motors recently launched their newest EV in the form of Punch EV. Delivery has also started. Tata Motors, which has been at the forefront of India’s electric vehicle revolution, introduced the Punch EV as part of its born-electric Acti.ev platform.Punch EV owner shares Quality Control ConcernsRanjit Mehta, a resident of Gurugram, shared his unfortunate experience just three days after taking delivery of the Punch EV. Mehta claims that within a few hours of taking possession of his brand-new Tata Punch EV on January 31, 2024, he started noticing issues related to the brakes.Tata Punch EV owner sharesWhat caught more attention, however, was the malfunctioning gearbox. In a video shared on social media the same day, Mehta demonstrated that the gear dial of his Tata Punch EV refused to respond. Even more alarming was the revelation that the motor continued to accelerate even when the brake pedal was fully pressed. Faced with these critical issues, Mehta promptly took his vehicle to the Autovikas Tata EV dealership.Adding another layer to the predicament, Mehta claimed that his Tata Punch EV had not undergone the essential Pre-Delivery Inspection (PDI) before reaching him. The significance of PDI lies in its ability to identify and rectify potential issues before the customer takes possession of the vehicle. Mehta even provided an audio recording where the dealership acknowledged the omission of the PDI process.Tata Punch EV owner sharesReplacement Saga UnfoldsAs a response to Mehta’s grievances, Tata Motors agreed to replace his faulty vehicle under warranty. However, this apparent solution led to an unexpected twist. The replacement vehicle provided by Tata Motors also exhibited the same motor issue that Mehta had encountered with his originally purchased faulty Punch EV. This shocking turn of events only amplified Mehta’s frustration.Tata Punch EV owner sharesAdding to the woes, Mehta claimed that he was presented with an additional charge for the replacement vehicle, despite the issues being evident from day one and the car being well within the warranty period. This left Mehta perplexed and frustrated, prompting him to voice his concerns on social media platforms, particularly on X (formerly Twitter).Tata Motors’ ResponseIn response to Mehta’s concerns raised on the X platform, Tata Motors issued a statement, saying, “Hello Ranjit, please allow us some time to get this checked with our team, and we’ll get back to you soon with an update. We value your cooperation in the meantime.” While this response indicates a willingness to address the issues, it leaves the owner and potential buyers in a state of uncertainty regarding the root cause of the problems and the steps Tata Motors intends to take to resolve them.Experiencing major issues with my new Tata Punch EV gear selector failure in traffic,and electric motor engaging despite brake applied. Safety concerns are a top priority! Dropped it off at Autovikas Tata EV showroom. @TataMotors,urgent replacement or refund needed! #TataPunchEV pic.twitter.com/ntHN0WtNe9— Ranjit Mehta (@ranjitmehta20) January 31, 2024With Tata Motors being a key player in the electric vehicle segment, instances of technical glitches and quality control lapses can dent the trust of potential buyers. This comes at a time when the Indian government is actively promoting electric mobility, and the success of electric vehicles depends heavily on customer confidence in the technology and the manufacturers.Source More

  • in

    Ford Mustang EV Trademarked In India On 12th Feb 2024 – Launch Soon?

    Ford Mustang Electric trademarked in IndiaAt the time of announcing its India exit plan in 2021, Ford had mentioned that some of its global electric SUVs could be launched in IndiaIn yet another development that signals Ford’s potential re-entry, the company has registered the Mustang Mach-E trademark in India. The trademark journal was done this week on 12th Feb 2024. Earlier, Ford had cancelled its Chennai plant sale deal with JSW and filed a patent for Endeavour SUV. Some job openings were also posted online. Till date, Ford has neither denied nor officially accepted its India re-entry plans.Ford Mustang Mach-E – A CBU importRegarding its re-entry into the highly competitive Indian automotive space, Ford appears to be keeping its cards close to the chest. The trademark filing for Mustang Mach-E compact Crossover electric SUV is strong evidence for Ford’s potential re-entry in India. Assuming Mustang Mach-E is launched here, it is likely to be imported as a CBU. This is in line with the company’s earlier statements issued at the time of exiting the Indian market.Ford Mustang Electric trademarked in IndiaAs it will be a CBU import, Mustang Mach-E will be largely the same as sold across international markets. Assembly for the crossover electric SUV is done in Mexico and China. At a later date, it is possible that Ford may consider the CKD route for Mustang Mach-E in India. This will help achieve a competitive price point for the Indian market.With the CBU route, Mustang Mach-E will be available at a starting price of around Rs 70 lakh. In the US, prices start at $42,995 (Approx. Rs 35.72 lakh). At this price point, it will take on the likes of Kia EV6, Volvo XC40 Recharge, BMW i4, BMW iX1, etc. India has huge EV potential and leading EV players like Tesla are looking at local manufacturing. It is possible that Ford may eventually consider India as a manufacturing hub for both domestic and export markets. Such developments may take time, as Ford may not want a repeat of its earlier experiences in India.Ford Mustang Electric trademarked in IndiaFord had to shut India operations, as part of its global business restructuring plan. In the period before its exit, sales volumes were below expectations and the company wasn’t able to achieve its targeted return on investment.Ford Mustang Mach-E – specs, performanceIn the US, a total of four variants of Mustang Mach-E are available for sale. Both RWD and eAWD variants as well as standard range and extended range variants are offered. The base Mustang Mach-E Select variant has 70 kWh usable battery capacity. The RWD variant churns out 266 hp and 430 Nm, whereas the eAWD has higher torque of 580 Nm.EPA-estimated range is 250 miles (402 km) with the RWD and 224 miles (360 km) with the eAWD variant. With the extended range variant, the range increases to 314 miles (505 km) with RWD and 277 miles (446 km) with eAWD variant. Top speed is electronically limited to 115 mph (185 km/h).Ford Mustang Electric trademarked in IndiaTop-spec Mustang Mach-E GT variant is available at a starting price of $59,995 (approx. Rs 49.86 lakh). The extended range version has a 91-kWh battery pack. GT eAWD variant generates 480 hp and 813 Nm. There’s a GT Performance Edition as well that churns out 860 Nm. Range of the Mustang Mach-E GT eAWD model is 270 miles (435 km). 0 to 60 mph (~ 0 to 100 km/h) can be achieved in 3.8 seconds. More

  • in

    Hero Mavrick 440 Launch Price Rs 1.99 Lakh to Rs 2.24 Lakh – Bookings Open

    Hero Mavrick 440 LaunchHero MotoCorp launches Mavrick 440: A Power-Packed Marvel on Two WheelsHero MotoCorp has officially launched its most powerful and expensive motorcycle to date – the Mavrick 440. This flagship model marks Hero’s bold entry into the upper premium segment, promising a thrilling riding experience and cutting-edge technology.Booking Open Nationwide – Three Variants, Attractive Price PointsStarting from today, Hero MotoCorp is opening bookings for the Mavrick 440, creating a wave of excitement among motorcycle enthusiasts across the country. Interested customers can reserve their Mavrick 440 either by visiting specified Hero MotoCorp outlets or digitally through the official website. The deliveries are scheduled to commence from April onwards, creating anticipation among eager riders.New Hero Mavrick 440Hero Mavrick 440 will be available in three enticing variants – Base, Mid, and Top. The price points are set at Rs 199,000/- (Base), Rs 214,000/- (Mid), and Rs 224,000/- (Top), making it an attractive proposition in the upper premium motorcycle segment. These prices are ex-showroom pan-India, reflecting Hero MotoCorp’s commitment to delivering value for money.To add to the excitement, Hero MotoCorp is launching the ‘Welcome to Mavrick Club Offer.’ Customers who book their Mavrick 440 before 15th March will receive a customised Mavrick Kit of Accessories & Merchandise worth Rs.10,000. This limited-time offer enhances the appeal for early adopters of this power-packed motorcycle.Hero Mavrick 440 LaunchThe Mavrick 440: A Marvel of Design and PerformanceUnveiled at the Hero World 2024 in Jaipur on January 23, the Mavrick 440 is poised to redefine the middle-weight motorcycle segment. It combines performance, style, and cutting-edge technology to deliver an unparalleled riding experience. The design of the Mavrick 440 is a head-turner, boasting a distinctive and assertive look with a blend of roadster aesthetics and robust styling.Hero Mavrick 440 LaunchUnder the hood, the Mavrick 440 features an Air-cooled with oil cooler 2V single-cylinder 440cc ‘TorqX’ engine with electronic fuel injection. This powerful engine produces 27 bhp @ 6000 rpm and a torque of 36 Nm @ 4000 rpm. With a 6-speed transmission, slip-and-assist clutch, and specially crafted 0° steel radial pattern tyres, the Mavrick 440 promises a smooth and stress-free ride.Comfort, Control, and ConnectivityDesigned with rider comfort in mind, the Mavrick 440 boasts roadster ergonomics, an upright riding position, spacious seat, ample legroom, and optimized grab-rails. Equipped with advanced telematics features, including smartphone integration, turn-by-turn navigation, and real-time information through eSIM-based connectivity, the Mavrick 440 offers a truly connected riding experience. Hero Mavrick 440 is available in five captivating color options spread across the three variants. The base version comes in Arctic White, the mid variant in Celestial Blue and Fearless Red, and the top variant in Phantom Black and Enigma Black.Hero Mavrick 440 LaunchMr. Niranjan Gupta, Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of Hero MotoCorp, expressed his enthusiasm, stating, “Our premium journey continues full throttle with the Mavrick 440. This unique proposition of a Muscular & Youthful Modern Roadster builds on the momentum of our journey to win in the premium segment, catering to the diverse preferences of our discerning customers.” More

  • in

    World’s First Electric Cargo Scooter Spied Testing – 150 Kms Range

    World’s First Electric Cargo Scooter SpiedQargos electric cargo scooter will improve operational efficiency and do away with the massive backpacks carried by delivery executivesWhile two-wheelers are already extensively used in B2B and B2C segments, they have limited load capacity. Moreover, existing two-wheelers used for deliveries aren’t protected from the elements. To overcome such challenges and solve other last-mile delivery issues, Qargos has come up with the world’s first electric cargo 2-wheeler.Qargos electric cargo 2-wheeler scooter specsDevelopment of Qargos electric cargo scooter is in its final stages. Qargos is a Pune-based start-up and has been working on the cargo 2-wheeler for the last 6 years. The EV is equipped with a 6.1 kWh lithium-ion battery pack, designed by French multinational software corporation Dassault Systèmes. The battery connects to a 3.4 kW motor that generates 6 kW of peak power.Qargos electric cargo scooterQargos electric cargo scooter has a range of 150 km. Top speed is limited to 80 km/h. The EV weighs 145 kg and comes with a 225-litre cargo compartment. It can carry around 120 kg of cargo. With a standard AC power socket, the charging time is currently around 5 hours 15 minutes. There are plans to develop DC charging capabilities that will reduce charging time to around 3 hours.Qargos EV testing is currently underway and modifications are being carried out, as needed. One of the key areas the company is focusing on is to improve the aerodynamics of the EV. This is being done in collaboration with Dassault Systèmes. With reduced drag force, Qargos EV will be able to achieve a higher range.Qargos electric cargo scooterQargos cargo 2-wheeler benefitsWith a conventional two-wheeler, an average of around 35 deliveries can be done. In comparison, the Qargos cargo 2-wheeler will allow deliveries of around 70 parcels. It will be possible with the larger 120 kg cargo space. Grocery carrying capacity can be increased 3X, as compared to around 36 kg currently possible with a standard 2-wheeler.Qargos electric cargo scooterDelivery executives won’t be required to carry the heavy backpacks, something that will improve their overall efficiency. Finding the parcels will become a lot easier with the dedicated cargo compartment, as compared to finding parcels inside a bag. The cargo compartment is lockable, so no worries about parcels getting stolen. The cargo compartment will also keep the parcels protected from the elements.Qargos cargo 2-wheeler launch, priceQargos has stated that the testing and validation process will be completed soon. Homologation is expected by March or April. Bookings could be announced in the subsequent months. Qargos electric cargo 2-wheeler is expected to be launched at a starting price of Rs 2 lakh. Around 250 units will be produced by the end of this year. As demand picks-up, production will be increased to around 12,000 units in 2025. Qargos cargo 2-wheeler will be manufactured at the company’s facility in Pune.Qargos electric cargo scooterTill date, funds worth USD 1 million have been invested in the project. The company will need more funds for production and marketing purposes. The prototypes have been developed in collaboration with leading Tier 1 suppliers. Ather has helped with developing the charging systems. Qargos is also developing a 2-seater version that will have a smaller cargo compartment.Source More

  • in

    2024 Triumph Scrambler 1200 X Launch Price Rs 11.83 L – 90PS, 110Nm, Full Specs

    Triumph Scrambler 1200 XWhen compared to XC and XE variants, Triumph Scrambler 1200 X is lighter on the pocket and offers a friendlier seating positionIconic British motorcycle manufacturer, Triumph, has listed a new motorcycle on its website. No. It is not yet time for the brand to launch Thruxton 440, which officially brake covers by the end of 2024. Instead, Triumph Scrambler 1200X has been launched in India. This sits above Scrambler 900 in the company’s lineup.Triumph Scrambler 1200 X Costs Rs. 11.83 LakhScrambler lineup from Triumph is one of the most popular. Sure, there are Tigers and the newly unveiled Daytona. But Triumph Scrambler is a popular choice among enthusiasts and the company had even launched special editions of Scrambler 1200 like “Bond Edition” launched in 2020 with a production run of 250 units.Triumph Scrambler 1200 X AccessorisedHowever, In India, 2024 has witnessed a new entrant to company’s scrambler lineup in the form of Scrambler 1200 X. It costs Rs. 11.83 lakh (ex-sh) and it is basically an affordable version of more equipped variants like Scrambler 1200 XC and Scrambler 1200 XE. For intended buyers, Scrambler 1200 X is also the friendliest variant too.We say this because X packs a seat height of just 820 mm, which is much lower when compared to XC variant. Shorter riders can choose a short-seat accessory that will bring seat height to 795 mm. Speaking of, there are over 70 official accessories compatible with Scrambler 1200 X, if you want an accessory frenzy.Triumph Scrambler 1200 X Seat HeightWe mentioned affordability factor as well, with Triumph Scrambler 1200 X. Triumph has achieved this by bundling less sophisticated componentry with X, when compared to more kitted-out XC and XE variants. We’re talking about non-adjustable front and rear suspension with X, along with less sophisticated braking hardware.2024 Triumph Scrambler 1200 X Full SpecsPowertrain, specs and hardwareOnly rear suspension gets preload adjustability. Braking hardware on Scrambler 1200 X is from Nissin and not Brembo M50s seen with other variants. Powertrain-wise, Triumph has not made any significant changes, except for a slight re-tune. 88.7 bhp and 110 Nm are the same as before, but peak power is now accessible at lower revs and peak torque is pushed higher up the revs.No other changes are seen with this 1,200cc parallel twin liquid cooled engine, which is mated to a 6-speed transmission. Off-road worthy highlights include 21-inch front and 18-inch rear wire-spoke wheels, knobby A/T tubeless tyres, long travel suspension and up-swept double barrel exhaust in iconic Triumph Scrambler design.Triumph Scrambler 1200 X ExhaustKerb weight of Triumph Scrambler 1200 X is 228 kg with a 15L fuel tank. There is a round instrument cluster and Triumph also sells an optional Bluetooth module with navigation support. X gets traction control and dual-channel ABS. There are five riding modes on offer too – Rain, Road, Sport, Off-road and Rider configurable. More

  • in

    2024 Tata Nexon Electric and Tiago Electric – New vs Old Prices of all variants

    Image – JayarajNexon EV’s Fearless LR, Fearless + LR and Fearless + S LR variants get the highest price reduction of Rs. 1.2 lakh each (ex-sh)India’s highest-selling electric car maker, Tata Motors, has lowered price tag of two of its best-selling EVs – Nexon EV and Tiago EV. While every manufacturer including Tata Motors is racking up ex-showroom prices, it is refreshing to see car prices go down every once in a while. These lowered prices are for EVs only and is not applicable to their ICE counterparts.Tata Nexon EV And Tiago EVNexon EV and Tiago EV are the foundation vehicles on which TPEM (Tata Passenger Electric Mobility) has built its empire. When we say empire, we mean the 70%+ market share that Tata Motors enjoys in Indian electric car space. Maximum price reduction that Tata is offering with Nexon EV and Tiago EV is Rs. 1.2 lakh (ex-sh).Chief Commercial Officer at TPEM, Mr Vivek Srivatsa, mentioned that there has been a reduction in input costs revolving around batteries and the company is passing on the benefits to their customers. This move was materialised after Mahindra and MG slashed prices off their offerings like XUV400 and Comet respectively.2024 Tata Tiago Electric Variant-Wise Price Reduction ListedThis is Tata’s most affordable electric car. Not only that, it is the most affordable 5-door electric car in India too. Before this price revision, Tiago EV prices used to start from Rs. 8.69 lakh (ex-sh) for base XE MR (Medium Range). XE MR now costs Rs. 7.99 lakh (ex-sh) with Rs. 70,000 off accounting for an 8.06% price reduction.Tiago EV revised pricesXT MR gets Rs. 35,000 discount and costs Rs. 8.99 lakh post price revision. The LR variants (Long Range) now start from Rs. 9.99 lakh for XT LR which received Rs. 30,000 off. XZ+ LR and XZ+ Tech Lux LR get the least reduction at Rs. 20,000 each. Tiago EV’s price range now extends till 11.39 lakh. All prices ex-sh.2024 Tata Nexon Electric Variant-Wise Price Reduction ListedStarting with Creative+ MR variant (Medium Range) of Nexon EV, pricing used to be Rs. 14.79 lakh, which is brought down to Rs. 14.49 lakh with a Rs. 25,000 reduction. Fearless MR, Fearless+ MR and Fearless+ S MR all get the same Rs. 20,000 price reduction. Empowered MR variant gets Rs. 35,000 decrease accounting for a 1.96% reduction. All prices ex-sh.Nexon EV revised pricesSpeaking of LR variants (Long Range), Fearless LR, Fearless + LR and Fearless + S LR all get the same Rs. 1.2 lakh price cuts accounting for a 6.25% to 6.6% reduction in ex-sh prices. In effect, these variants receive the most price benefits among all other Nexon EV variants. The top-spec Empowered + LR variant gets Rs. 70,000 off. This way, Tata Nexon EV prices now range between Rs. 14.49 lakh and Rs. 19.29 lakh instead of Rs. 14.74 lakh and Rs. 19.99 lakh (all prices ex-sh). More

  • in

    Tata Nexon EV, Tiago EV Price Cut By Up To Rs 1.2 Lakh – No Benefit For Existing Owners

    Tata Nexon EV price cutTata Motors has announced a price reduction for Nexon EV as well as Tiago EV – Passes on battery price reduction benefits to customersIn a major move to make electric vehicles (EVs) more accessible to Indian customers, Tata Passenger Electric Mobility Ltd (TPEM), a subsidiary of Tata Motors and a pioneer in India’s EV revolution, has announced substantial price cuts for two of their best-selling electric models, the Nexon EV and Tiago EV. These new prices are valid on new purchase, and not for existing owners.Tata Nexon EV New Prices, Tiago EV New Prices – Feb 2024Nexon EV is set to receive a price reduction of up to Rs. 1.2 lakh, making it even more appealing to potential buyers. Similarly, the Tiago EV will see a significant price drop of up to Rs. 70,000, with the base model now starting at an attractive Rs. 7.99 lakh. This news comes after Mahindra reduced prices of their XUV400 electric and MG Motor reduced prices of their Comet EV and ZS EV.Mr. Vivek Srivatsa, Chief Commercial Officer at TPEM, highlighted the rationale behind the price reduction, stating, “Battery costs constitute a substantial part of the overall cost of an EV. With battery cell prices having softened in the recent past and considering their potential reduction in the foreseeable future, we have chosen to proactively pass on the resulting benefits directly to customers.”The reduction in prices is expected to further propel the growth of the EV market in India, where TPEM already holds a dominant position with over 70% market share. Notably, the inaugural prices of the recently launched Punch EV will remain unchanged, as they already incorporate a reduction in battery prices anticipated in the coming years.EV Market Surge: TPEM Commands Over 70% Market ShareEVs have shown remarkable growth momentum in recent years, substantially outperforming the overall passenger vehicle industry. In CY2023, the EV segment witnessed an impressive 90% growth, in stark contrast to the 8% growth recorded by the traditional passenger vehicle industry. This growth momentum has continued into CY2024, with EV sales registering an outstanding 100% year-on-year growth in January 2024.Mr. Srivatsa emphasized the company’s commitment to accelerating the mainstream adoption of EVs by making them more accessible nationwide. “While EVs have grown rapidly over the last few years, our mission is to accelerate the mainstream adoption of EVs by making them more accessible nationwide. Our portfolio already offers a wide choice of body styles, range, and price points for our smart, feature-rich EVs,” he added.With these significant price reductions, Tata Motors aims to attract a larger pool of customers to the EV market. The Nexon EV and Tiago EV, already popular choices among consumers, are expected to become even more compelling propositions at their new, accessible price points.Germany Reports Decline In EV SalesElsewhere, electric vehicle sales are reportedly slowing down. Germany witnessed a substantial 55% decline in electric vehicle (EV) sales in January 2024, shedding light on upheavals within the broader automotive sector. In line with global trends, Germany had previously offered tax incentives for citizens purchasing electric vehicles. However, the government abruptly terminated the incentive program in December 2023, leading to a significant downturn in EV sales.In comparison to December 2023, the sales of new electric vehicles witnessed a sharp decline of 54.9%, while plug-in hybrid sales were down by 19.6% in the initial month of 2024. Conversely, the market for vehicles powered by internal combustion engines experienced a positive trajectory, with gas vehicles increasing by 9.1% and diesel vehicles by 9.5%.Despite the modest rebound in internal combustion engine vehicle sales, it failed to counterbalance the overall contraction of the automotive market, which contracted by 11.7% compared to December 2023, as reported by Auto Business Insight. While the sudden termination of tax incentives undoubtedly exacerbated the decline in EV sales, it is not the sole factor contributing to the overall decrease. More

  • in

    Suzuki 250cc Bikes Recall Feb 2024 – Gixxer 250, SF250, V-Strom SX 250

    Suzuki Gixxer : Image – BLazeR9This is not the first time the Gixxer 250s have been recalled – They had also been recalled back in April 2021 over excessive vibration issueCurrently Suzuki’s flagship mainstream offering, the 250cc lineup includes three distinctly different motorcycles. The street naked is called Gixxer 250, its fully faired counterpart is called Gixxer SF 250 and there is an ADV style offering based on this platform called V-Strom SX 250. All three of these motorcycles have been subjected to a recall.Suzuki 250cc Bikes RecalledThe Japanese brand is busy with damage control as its 250cc lineup in India has been diagnosed with a few powertrain issues. Especially in its cam area. Since all three of the aforementioned motorcycles use the same 249cc engine, all three have been subjected to a recall.The issue is that there has been abnormal wear of exhaust cam lobes discovered with certain vehicles. Affected motorcycles might show sudden stalling or generate abnormal noises. Hence the company has issued a recall for Gixxer 250, Gixxer SF 250 and V-Strom SX 250.Suzuki dealerships across India are currently on the verge of pin-pointing affected motorcycles or their batches. Dealerships will contact affected motorcycle owners for a service appointment at their nearest service centre. Suzuki will replace the parts at no expense on the owner’s tab.Suzuki Gixxer SF 250There are many reasons that could have caused this issue. However, Suzuki has not revealed any concrete reasoning regarding what caused this abnormal wear of exhaust cam lobes. Nor did Suzuki reveal sample size affected by this recall, or the number of batches affected.Suzuki 250cc motorcycles in IndiaIf you discount the recent updates for Gixxer siblings, V-Strom SX 250 is the newest among these three motorcycles. V-Strom Suzuki launched in India is based on the very underrated Gixxer 250 platform. A lot of cycle parts have been shared between the three motorcycles. Especially the Engine and transmission. The engine even makes the same power and torque and also comes with the exact same state of tune.The 249 cc oil-cooled engine makes 26.5 PS of power and 22.2 Nm of torque. This engine is mated to a 6-speed transmission. This powertrain boasts a simpler SOHC setup with Suzuki’s famed oil cooling tech. All three motorcycles get almost similar cycle parts along with dual-channel ABS with no option to switch off ABS on the rear wheel even in V-Strom SX 250. With the February 2023 update, all three bikes also share their instrument clusters with similar features. More