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    Royal Enfield Himalayan Rally Racer Debuts – Piloted By CS Santosh

    Royal Enfield Himalayan Rally RacerThe Himalayan Rally racer is likely featuring a modified Sherpa 450 engine, kicking out more performance than the stock bike’s 40 bhp and 40 Nm
    Royal Enfield’s 450cc platform has been a popular one and has now spawned a rally racer model. The first images of the upcoming bike have now been revealed from the Spanish Cuenca rally. Earlier, enthusiasts had witnessed a modified Himalayan 450 at the Swank Rally Di Sardegna, held in Italy.
    Himalayan Rally Racer – Styling and features
    From the images, it is evident that the Himalayan Rally racer model is in initial stages of development. The Spanish Cuenca rally is likely being used as a testing ground to identify the bike’s strengths and weaknesses. And with the renowned CS Santosh piloting the bike, some valuable feedback can be gained. Based on that, the necessary changes can be introduced in the rally-spec Himalayan.
    Royal Enfield Himalayan Rally-Spec Bike
    In its current form, rally-spec Himalayan comes across as a stripped-down version of the Himalayan 450. Some accessories from RE’s rally kit can be seen. The bike has knobby, rally-spec tyres and long-travel suspension. It is likely that the rally-spec Himalayan 450 will have different suspension and braking setup in comparison to the stock version.
    Images reveal that the side racks seen on the stock model have been removed. This improves handling and control across off-road tracks. A rally tower has been added at the front, something that is used to store rally essentials such as a road book. The production version of rally-spec Himalayan 450 could get digital GPS systems with advanced navigation functions.
    Royal Enfield Himalayan Rally-Spec Bike
    There can be various other possibilities such as a long-range fuel tank, reinforced frame and suspension and higher ground clearance. Rally-spec accessories such as skid plates and crash bars could be made available with the production model. Lighting systems could be upgraded to ensure improved visibility across low light / dark conditions.
    Rally-spec Himalayan 450 – Performance
    Visually, the engine appears to be the same as seen with the standard Himalayan 450. It also has the OEM radiator guard. However, given the gruelling conditions rally bikes have to endure, it is likely that the engine will see significant internal upgrades. For example, power output can be boosted to more than 50 hp.
    Royal Enfield Himalayan Rally-Spec Bike
    Rally bikes have high low-end torque, which allows enhanced control at slow speeds. Another common feature is wide-ratio gearboxes, designed to accommodate both crawling at low speeds and high-speed riding. In its stock form, Royal Enfield Himalayan 450 generates 40 hp and 40 Nm, mated to a 6-speed gearbox, slipper clutch and ride-by-wire throttle.
    It can take a couple of years or more for the rally-spec Himalayan 450 to reach production stage. The bike will need to be tested thoroughly, including participation in various other rally events, before it can be perfected. At the 2024 Rallye TT Cuenca, rally-spec Himalayan 450 came at 30th spot in its category. In the future, enthusiasts can even get to see the rally-spec Himalayan 450 at the Dakar Rally. Royal Enfield had hinted at it, although no official plans have been revealed. More

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    2025 Mahindra XUV700 EV Version Launch Nears – Latest Spy Shots

    2025 Mahindra XUV700 EV VersionExpected to arrive in 2025, XUV700 EV version will primarily challenge upcoming Tata Harrier EV and Safari EV
    Like many other carmakers, Mahindra is expecting a sizable increase in EV sales in the coming years. To stay ahead in the race, Mahindra will be introducing its born-electric SUV range next year. The first of these will be XUV700 EV version.
    Mahindra XUV700 EV version – What to expect?
    Mahindra XUV700 EV test vehicles have been spotted frequently in recent months. Latest spy shots are credited to automotive enthusiast Aniket Kashyap, who managed to click these test mules in Ladakh. While wrapped in full camouflage, it is easy to see that much of the exterior profile is the same as the ICE model.
    2025 Mahindra XUV700 EV Version
    However, XUV700 EV version will have a new front fascia. It will include a closed-off grille, new lighting elements and refreshed bumper section. Side profile of XUV700 EV closely mirrors the ICE model. Some of the key highlights include flush door handles, circular wheel arches, chrome window garnish and slightly tapering rear roof section. XUV700 EV will offer more refined aesthetics with its aerodynamic, low-drag alloy wheels.
    The charging port for XUV700 EV is installed on the left, the same position where the ICE variant has the fuel filler. At the rear, the overall profile will be largely the same as the ICE model. There could be some tweaks to the tailgate and bumper. XUV700 EV will feature unique badging elements that highlight its electric underpinnings.
    2025 Mahindra XUV700 EV Version
    Digital cockpit experience
    While the exteriors seem quite familiar, the interiors of XUV700 EV will offer a more premium experience and multiple new features. One of the test vehicles was recently spotted with a triple-screen layout that covers almost the entire length of the dashboard. Such premium features will be available with the top variants of XUV700 EV. Mahindra will focus on reducing clutter and enhancing the digital cockpit experience.
    2025 Mahindra XUV700 EV Version
    XUV700 EV will have advanced tech features such as 5G network capability and 5 Radars-1 Vision technology. The SUV is designed to support future upgrades such as L2+ autonomous driving and ADAS. A comprehensive range of connected features will be available with XUV700 EV.
    XUV700 EV battery, range, performance
    Mahindra’s born-electric INGLO platform that underpins XUV700 EV can support battery packs of up to 80 kWh capacity. In that case, XUV700 EV could have a range of around 500 km. Earlier spy shots had revealed a rear motor, indicating that the SUV will have a dual-motor AWD option. With fast charging of up to 175 kWh, users will be able to achieve up to 80% charging in just 30 minutes.
    In the electric segment, Mahindra currently offers only the XUV400. Sales are relatively low, when compared to Mahindra’s hugely popular ICE SUVs. Nonetheless, even with just a single EV model in its portfolio, Mahindra is already ranked third in the list of best selling EV brands in the country. That’s because EV sales are yet to register large numbers similar to that of ICE car sales. With its born-electric range, Mahindra can probably improve its ranking and market share in the EV segment. Mahindra is also planning to foray in the petrol hybrid segment. More

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    New KTM 250 Adventure Spied Before Launch – Details Revealed

    New KTM 250 Adventure SpiedThe same 249 cc DOHC 4V single-cylinder engine with 30 bhp and 25 Nm, mated to a 6-speed gearbox will power new KTM 250 Adventure
    Expanding its lineup, KTM has been working on development of a multitude of products. The company is set to unveil 390 Adventure R, 390 Enduro R and 390 SMC R at 2024 EICMA show. However, there are new developments in KTM’s 250 platform, which have been revealed through the latest spy shots.
    We’re talking about the new KTM 250 Adventure spied ahead of launch, which sheds light on expected changes over current model. With a multitude of changes, upcoming 250 Adventure will rival the likes of Yezdi Adventure, Kawasaki KLX 230 S and to some extent, upcoming Hero Xpulse 210 with Karizma engine.
    2025 KTM 250 Adventure Spied
    New KTM 250 Adventure
    Currently, KTM offers its Adventure lineup with 250 and 390 platforms. Both 250 Adventure and 390 Adventure are offered with the older design that debuted a long time ago. There have been multiple test mules of 2025 KTM 390 Adventure which features a brand new design language.
    This upcoming vehicle is a lot more edgier than current model. The recently spotted 2025 KTM 250 Adventure gets similar design too, but underpinned by the same engine as current 250 Duke. As seen in these spy shots, KTM has carried over its edgy design language we saw with upcoming 390 Adventure.
    2025 KTM 250 Adventure Spied
    However, there are a few elements that will easily differentiate 390 Adventure from 250 Adventure. For starters, 250 Adventure lacks LED DRLs, something which 390 Adventure gets. Other than that, 250 Adventure lacks the colour TFT screen that we have seen with new generation 390 Duke launched in India.
    This is slightly interesting because smaller and less expensive 200 Duke gets the same TFT screen as 390 Duke, but 250 Adventure is deprived of it. In its place, we get a less-flashy unit, which can be navigated via controls on the left switchgear. Other than these changes, new KTM 250 Adventure seems to be packing slightly skinnier tyres than the 2025 390 Adventure.
    2025 KTM 250 Adventure Spied
    ORVM stalks on 250 Adventure look similar to the ones seen on Pulsar NS400Z and Dominar models. Wheels are of wire-spoke design and looks like they are 19-inchers at the front and 18-inchers at the rear. We hope these are tubeless types. This is the first time KTM is offering wire-spoke wheels on 250 Adventure.
    Engine specs, Features
    We expect 250 Adventure to retain the same 249 cc DOHC 4V single-cylinder engine as current model. Around 30 bhp of peak power and 25 Nm of peak torque is expected out of this engine. A 6-speed gearbox and a slip and assist clutch will be offered. More details will be revealed in the future.
    Also read – 2025 KTM 390 Enduro spied
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    BYD eMAX 7 Launch Price Rs 26.9 Lakh – 530 km Range, 71.8 kWh Battery

    BYD eMAX 7 LaunchThe larger 71.8 kWh battery pack on BYD eMAX 7 Superior trim promises 530 km of range on a single charge and a 201 bhp motor driving front wheels
    India’s premium MPV space just witnessed a new launch in the form of BYD eMAX 7. Not only is this a premium MPV, but it is powered by electric powertrains, promising a quiet and comfortable journey for occupants. BYD has priced it at Rs 26.9 lakh (Ex-sh), which is a tempting proposition for MPV buyers in India.
    BYD eMAX 7
    With the launch of BYD eMAX 7, the company has unlocked a new chapter by refining its offerings in this segment. It has to be noted that eMAX 7 is the successor of the now-discontinued e6 MPV. There are four colours to choose from – Cosmos Black, Crystal White, Harbour Grey and Quartz Blue.
    BYD eMAX 7 Launch Prices
    BYD has launched eMAX 7 in two trim levels – Premium and Superior, catering to a wider audience. While Premium trim comes with a 55.4 kWh battery pack promising 420 km of range on a single charge (NEDC), Superior boasts a larger 71.8 kWh battery pack with 530 km on a single charge (NEDC).
    BYD eMAX 7 Colour
    Premium supports a maximum of 89 kW DC charging, while Superior can charge at speeds up to 115 kW DC. Where AC charging is concerned, both get 7 kW support. Both trims come equipped with a sole 310 Nm electric motor driving the front wheels with 180 km/h top speed. Premium packs 161 bhp of peak power with 10.1s 0-100 km/h and Superior has 201 bhp with 8.6s 0-100 km/h sprint.
    BYD eMAX 7 Fascia
    Where dimensions are concerned, BYD eMAX 7 measures 4,710 mm in length, 1,810 mm in width, 1,690 mm in height and a long 2,800 mm wheelbase. Ground clearance is 170 mm and there is a 180L boot space with 3rd row up, which can be expanded to 580L with 3rd row folded down.
    Exterior highlights
    BYD eMAX 7 comes with all four disc brakes as standard. It has to be noted that only the front discs are ventilated type. 17-inch alloy wheels are standard too, wrapped with 225/55-R17 tyres. When compared to e6, eMAX 7 boasts a lot more soothing and mature design. It has a Dragon Face design with a handsome fascia.
    BYD eMAX 7
    Both LED headlights are connected with a strip in the middle that also carries BYD logo. Front bumper has an interesting design to reduce visual bulk and creases on the tapering bonnet give some aggression. Charging port is at the rear right quarter panel and Superior trim also offers an electrically operated tailgate.
    BYD eMAX 7 Rear
    Premium interiors
    On the inside, well laid-out dashboard along with a three-spoke steering take centre stage. BYD eMAX 7 comes with both 6-seater and 7-seater configurations and synthetic leather seat upholstery is standard. Depending on the trim, both front seats are electrically adjustable and have a ventilation function.
    BYD eMAX 7 Dashboard
    The main highlight is that it has a 12.8-inch rotating touchscreen infotainment screen with Android Auto and Apple CarPlay. Instrument cluster gets a 5-inch TFT display. Other notable features include a panoramic glass roof, automatic climate control, all-row AC vents, VTO (Vehicle To Load), keyless entry, NFC key card, wireless charger, air purifier and Black+Brown interiors, among others.
    BYD eMAX 7 Boot Space
    Where safety is concerned, BYD eMAX 7 comes with Level-2 ADAS with Superior trim with auto emergency braking and adaptive cruise control and others. Standard safety features include a 360-degree camera, auto hold with electronic parking brake, multiple airbags (front, side and curtain), seat belt reminders, TPMS, ABS, ESC, TCS, EBD, hill hold and more. More

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    New KTM 390 Enduro Spied Testing Ahead Of Launch

    New KTM 390 EnduroThe new KTM 390 Enduro is set to debut at 2024 EICMA show alongside other motorcycles based on company’s 390, 990 and 1390 platforms
    It is raining ADVs in India, especially in the mainstream segment. We are awaiting Kawasaki KLX 230 S, Hero Xpulse 210, Xpulse 440, Royal Enfield Himalayan 450 Raid among others. From the house of KTM, there are two incoming ADVs, based on its top-tier 390 platform. The new spy shots show upcoming KTM 390 Enduro in production spec avatar. Let’s take a look.
    New KTM 390 Enduro Spied Testing
    The term ADV encompasses a broader range of motorcycles within it. From within KTM’s lineup, we only had the Adventure model, based on 390 and 250 platforms, which is more of an upright long-distance tourer, rather than a true-blue off-roader.
    So, KTM identified this and has formulated a more off-road-worthy vehicle based on the 390 platform. That is where the 390 Enduro comes into action, featuring fewer body panels without a fairing to break when it falls while off-roading, which is a common occurrence, even for seasoned off-road enthusiasts.
    We can see a small headlight, followed by a large beak, which protects the components above while landing from a jump. Even though we said fewer body panels, 390 Enduro has muscular and angular tank shrouds for a macho appeal. Fuel tank shape is quite unique with a bulging top and bike’s keyhole is on the fuel tank as well.
    KTM 390 Enduro
    There are frame sliders installed, which look like standard fitment. They protect the motorcycle when it falls. These spy shots are credited to automotive enthusiast Narinder Tandon. Notable elements seen on these spy shots are many. 390 Enduro features the same main frame as new 390 Duke, while the rear subframe is new and accommodates a relatively flat seat.
    What to expect?
    There is an extended tail section that houses bike’s rear registration plates and LED winkers. Components include 21-inch front and 18-inch rear wire-spoke wheels wrapped with dual-sport tyres, USD telescopic front forks from WP that we hope are adjustable for compression and rebound, a rear mono-shock setup, single disc setup at both ends with dual-channel ABS, among others.
    Where features are concerned, 390 Enduro will get switchable ABS on rear wheel, a 5-inch TFT digital instrument cluster with music control and Bluetooth connectivity and turn-by-turn navigation, and a host of controls on left switchgear to control it, all LED lighting, a USB charging port and adjustable brake and clutch levers, among others.
    KTM 390 Enduro
    Powertrains-wise, we can expect the same 398.63cc, DOHC 4V, liquid-cooled, single-cylinder engine generating around 46 hp of peak power and 39 Nm of peak torque, mated to a 6-speed gearbox, a slip and assist clutch and a bi-directional quick shifter. The company is set to debut the new KTM 390 Enduro at 2024 EICMA show, alongside other motorcycles. More

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    Tata Nexon EV May Get BaaS Option – MG Windsor Effect

    Tata Nexon EVTata Motors’ BaaS (Battery as a Service) model will allow Nexon EV, Punch EV, Tiago EV, Tigor EV and Curvv EV to quote lower Ex-sh prices
    Today, there are more electric cars to choose from, than there were a couple of years ago. Also, there are more purchasing options today, further accelerating EV adoption. Appealing to buyers more, is the new BaaS programs introduced by MG Motor, quoting significantly lower upfront Ex-sh prices.
    In a bid to retain its market share in electric car segment and offer significantly lower Ex-sh prices, Tata Motors is reportedly working to introduce BaaS model with their electric lineup. When launched, Tata’s BaaS program might be available with Nexon EV, Punch EV, Tiago EV, Tigor EV and the recently launched Curvv EV.
    New Tata Curvv EV – Voyager Aamir
    Tata Nexon EV BaaS
    India’s leading electric car manufacturer, Tata Motors, leads the segment with around 65% market share. But there is a considerable 14.57% drop in sales YoY in August 2024. The company is now reportedly considering launching BaaS programs of its own to quote significantly lower Ex-sh prices. Launch timeline is still unknown.
    JSW MG Motor India was the first to launch BaaS (Battery as a Service) program in India. Starting with Windsor EV, JSW MG Motor India has redefined electric vehicle pricing and then extended their BaaS model to include Comet EV and ZS EV. Customer reception seems to be very positive towards BaaS concept as MG Windsor EV bagged more than 15K bookings on the first day.
    Tata Punch EV – Car Marvel
    By offering battery rental service, MG quoted significantly lower Ex-sh prices than typical EVs where battery was included in the package as part of the ownership. Mahindra took notice of this and is offering BaaS model with their newly launched Zeo commercial 4W pickup truck. Notably, Mahindra has not announced BaaS model on XUV400, their electric offering in PV segment.
    As of now, Tata’s electric portfolio starts from Rs 7.99 lakh (Ex-sh) for Tiago EV, Rs 9.99 lakh (Ex-sh) for Punch EV, Rs 12.49 lakh (Ex-sh) for Nexon EV and Tigor EV and Rs 17.49 lakh (Ex-sh) for Curvv EV. We hope Tata reduces upfront Ex-sh prices by around 25% to 30% and quotes battery rental of Rs 2.5 to Rs 3.5 per km covered.
    2024 Tata Tiago EV
    How will BaaS help?
    If there is around 30% reduction in Ex-sh prices with BaaS as per the report, we can expect Tiago EV to start at around Rs 5.6 lakh (Ex-sh + Rental), Punch EV from Rs 7 lakh (Ex-sh + Rental), Tigor EV and Nexon EV from Rs 8.75 lakh (Ex-sh + Rental) and Curvv EV from Rs 12.25 lakh (Ex-sh + Rental).
    If we take MG Windsor EV with BaaS and Tata Curvv EV without BaaS, there is a Rs 7.5 lakh difference in upfront Ex-sh price with base variants. With the Rs 7.5 lakh saved, a Windsor EV buyer can drive 2,14,285 km paying Rs 3.5 per km battery rental charge to MG. Considering that majority of EV buyers probably need more than 10 years to clock that mileage, the lower upfront cost facilitated by BaaS model is very impressive.
    Tata Tigor EV
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    Ola Electric Faces Show Cause Notice Amid Consumer Complaints Surge

    Ola Electric Scooter outside a service outletThe Central Consumer Protection Authority (CCPA) has issued a show cause notice to Ola Electric after a significant increase in consumer complaints regarding its e-scooters
    The notice, dated October 3, flags potential violations of the Consumer Protection Act, 2019, citing service deficiencies, misleading advertisements, unfair trade practices, and consumer rights violations. Ola Electric has been directed to respond within 15 days.
    Over 10,000 Complaints Lodged Against Ola Electric
    The National Consumer Helpline (NCH) registered 10,644 complaints between September 1, 2023, and August 30, 2024. Service delays for e-scooters accounted for 3,389 of these complaints, while 1,899 consumers reported delayed vehicle deliveries. Another 1,459 complaints involved unfulfilled service promises. Additional issues included manufacturing defects, improper refunds, recurring defects, and battery-related malfunctions.
    Ola Electric acknowledges the show cause notice
    Ola Electric acknowledges the show cause notice
    Nidhi Khare, Secretary of the Department of Consumer Affairs, confirmed that the CCPA is actively looking into the complaints and urged Ola Electric to resolve these issues promptly. National Consumer Helpline can be contacted via phone (1800-11-4000 , 1915), eMail (nch-ca@gov.in), website (https://consumerhelpline.gov.in), Google Play Store App, etc.
    National Consumer Helpline
    National Consumer Helpline
    Ola Electric Stock Takes a Hit
    On Monday, Ola Electric’s stock dropped nearly 9%, reaching an intra-day low of Rs 90.26. The company’s shares, which debuted on August 9, have since fallen 74% from their peak of Rs 157.40. In Q1 FY25, Ola Electric reported a consolidated net loss of Rs 347 crore, despite a 32.3% year-on-year revenue growth. The company raised Rs 6,154 crore through its IPO, which had initially seen strong investor interest with a 4.27 times subscription rate.
    Ola Electric share price – October 7, 2024.
    Twitter Users Voice Frustration Over Delayed Action
    The news of the CCPA’s show cause notice prompted strong reactions on social media. One Twitter user expressed frustration over the delayed response from consumer authorities, writing, “Don’t know why National Consumer Helpline has to wait for 10k+ complaints to act. When will they learn to be proactive n give some value and respect to the Indian consumer? It’s because of the lackadaisical attitude of these offices that corporates feel emboldened to sideline consumers.”
    Bhavish Aggarwal’s Social Media Spat Sparks Backlash
    This notice comes a day after Ola Electric CEO Bhavish Aggarwal’s feud with comedian Kunal Kamra on Sunday. Kamra posted a picture of Ola scooters gathering dust outside a dealership, which prompted Aggarwal to accuse him of being paid to criticize the company.
    The argument escalated on X (formerly Twitter), where Aggarwal deflected criticism of the company’s service issues and invited Kamra to work at an Ola service center. Aggarwal’s failure to acknowledge the rising consumer complaints added fuel to the online backlash, especially in light of reports that Ola Electric is receiving up to 80,000 complaints per month. More

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    Public Spat – Shares Go Ola, Bye-Bye. But Big on Hokum

    Photo Credit – Ashok Shrivastav. Ola scooter service centre – Before, After.Tweeting Triumphs: Big Headlines!
    It starts with a tweet. And you respond. While engagement generated by a public spat may be appealing to some, the lack of accountability in these interactions is evident. Especially if its unfunny. Some believe they are above critique and could respond in ways that reflect a need to control the narrative. Defensiveness and confrontation take precedence over accountability and transparency.
    This dynamic is a key problem in today’s social media landscape: the tendency to prioritise personal standpoint over meaningful, solution-oriented conversations. A simple response would have been
    Photo Credit – Ashok Shrivastav. Ola Electric service centre
    Ola Electric Stock Drop: Not an Enjoyable Ride
    In other news today, Ola Electric share price fell below Rs 90. At Rs 89.55, its shouldering a 8.38 percent drop. FADA reports Ola Electric’s 2024 September sales at 24,679 units.
    While common, certain lines of argument are a problematic dynamic in public discourse, particularly on social media. Especially when confrontational tones and personal attacks often overshadow constructive conversation. Why is it such a common phenomenon?
    Ola Electric Share market – October 7, 2024.
    Social Media: Where Politeness Goes to Die
    When a company or individual is publicly criticised, most likely the tweet will be ignored, or there will be an automated robotic response about how they’re looking into the prob and customer care will contact them. But that pattern is likely to change if a tweet is from a known/popular entity. There could be great drama if you’re not nameless/faceless. An urge to defend oneself in the face of public criticism could be innate. So instead of even an iota of meaningful dialogue, one could deflect criticism with personal jabs. This behaviour could be from feeling personally attacked, even when the criticism was directed at the company, not the individual. Concurrently, a large audience gets sucked into it.
    Is it difficult for CEOs or company leaders to separate themselves from their companies because their identity is often deeply intertwined with the brand they represent? Does criticism of the company feel like a direct attack on their personal competence, leadership, or vision? Does negative feedback trigger a need to protect not just the company’s reputation, but their own?
    Brand reputation management – Choosing Silence

    Do indian consumers have a voice? Do they deserve this? Two wheelers are many daily wage workers lifeline…@nitin_gadkari is this how Indians will get to using EV’s? @jagograhakjago any word?Anyone who has an issue with OLA electric leave your story below tagging all… https://t.co/G2zdIs15wh pic.twitter.com/EhJmAzhCmt
    — Kunal Kamra (@kunalkamra88) October 6, 2024

    On platforms like Twitter, exchanges tend to escalate quickly, as scrutiny and audience engagement create a high-drama environment. Aggressive responses often receive attention. It’s engagement farming without even having to try. When public figures engage in a public spat, especially on social media, it draws attention, increases engagement, and fuels conversations, even if the content itself is disparaging. A spectacle. Such responses, however unprofessional or personal, are likely to trigger strong reactions, be it support from loyalists or outrage from critics, which, in turn, increases visibility and keeps the brand in the public eye. The more attention one can draw, the more “buzz” one creates, regardless of whether it’s positive or negative.
    A Code of Conduct outlines expected standards of behaviour as per company’s values and ethical standards. It’s even simpler to do as The Beatles sang, “Let It Be”, and choose not to respond to a tweet, as many have done countless times. More