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    New Mahindra XEV 9e Electric SUV – Top Features, Battery Pack Options, Range

    New Mahindra XEV 9e Electric SUVAvailable with 59 kWh and 79 kWh battery pack options, Mahindra XEV 9e has max range of 656 km (MIDC P1 + P2)
    With plans to dominate the electric segment, Mahindra has introduced the XEV 9e and BE 6e electric SUVs. More new models based on the advanced INGLO platform will be introduced in the coming years. Mahindra’s new range of born-electric EVs have an eye-catching design and are equipped with a multitude of high-tech features.
    New Mahindra XEV 9e Electric SUV
    Mahindra XEV 9e – Picture perfect design
    An absolutely dazzling design is one of the key USPs of Mahindra XEV 9e. While there will be multiple colour options to choose from, the XEV 9e looks especially spectacular with the red paint. It could be similar to or the same Red Rage colour option available with Mahindra XUV700.
    New Mahindra XEV 9e Electric SUV
    Some of the key highlights of XEV 9e include vertically-stacked top-mounted LED DRLs, triangular headlamp housings, full-width LED strip and a prominent closed-off grille. The bonnet flows smoothly and has distinctive creases for a sporty and muscular look and feel.
    New Mahindra XEV 9e Electric SUV
    Side profile has flush door handles for the front doors, prominent wheel arches, door moulding, sporty low drag alloy wheels and blacked-out B and C pillars. The rear door handles are mounted on the C pillar. At the rear, XEV 9e has the signature sloping roofline of a coupe. The rear lighting elements are similar to the ones at the front. Measuring 4,790mm in length, the XEV 9e will have a powerful road presence.
    New Mahindra XEV 9e Electric SUV
    Mahindra XEV 9e – Range, performance
    There will be two battery pack options, 59 kWh and 79 kWh. With the larger battery, range will be 656 km (MIDC P1 + P2). For complete peace of mind, Mahindra is offering lifetime battery warranty for first owners. Powering the SUV will be a 3-in-1 integrated powertrain that delivers 210 kW (285 PS).
    New Mahindra XEV 9e Electric SUV
    Mahindra XEV 9e can accelerate from 0 to 100 km/H in 6.8 seconds. Not the best, but still quite fast. It is likely that safety is being given precedence since LFP battery pack is used with XEV 9e. LFP battery packs have reduced risk of thermal runaway, as compared to standard lithium-ion battery packs. They also have a longer lifespan.
    New Mahindra XEV 9e Electric SUV
    With Mahindra XEV 9e, users can choose from drive modes of Range, Everyday and Race. Charging hassles are also sorted, as the SUV can achieve 20-80% charge in under 20 minutes. This will be possible when using a 175-kW fast charger. Other equipment includes brake-by-wire tech with IEB (integrated electronic booster), advanced suspension system and high-power steering with variable gear ratio (VGR).
    New Mahindra XEV 9e Electric SUV
    Premium cabin experience
    With the XEV 9e and BE 6e, Mahindra has introduced its powerful AI-based platform named MAIA (Mahindra Artificial Intelligence Architecture). Users can access features such as Bluetooth 5.2, Wi-Fi 6.0, ADAS L2+, OTA updates and more than 60 apps for entertainment, music, shopping, podcast, OTT movies and productivity.
    New Mahindra XEV 9e Electric SUV
    XEV 9e is equipped with three 12.30-inch screens, taking the full screen size to 1.1 meter. Other key highlights include a head-up display (HUD), infinity roof, ambient lighting and preset mood themes.
    New Mahindra XEV 9e Electric SUV
    Safety package
    Safety kit includes ADAS Level 2+ that has 5 radars and 1 vision camera. Mahindra has provided an advanced Driver and Occupant Monitoring System (DOMS) that can effectively detect driver fatigue and drowsiness. Other safety features such as a 360° surround view monitor and autopark are also available. More

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    Mahindra XEV 9e Launch Price Rs 21.90 lakh (Ex-sh, Chennai)

    2025 Mahindra XEV 9eWith the launch of XEV 9e, Mahindra has stepped into a new era of vehicular design and interior packaging offering triple screen layout
    In the Indian automotive market, Mahindra has emerged as the top brand for large SUVs. After the Alturas G4, Mahindra hasn’t really attempted an SUV of a higher price bracket above XUV700’s. That changes now with the launch of XEV 9e, which is among the first Electric Origin SUVs to launch from Mahindra alongside BE 6e.
    With XEV 9e, Mahindra has firmly set its foot in the Coupe SUV territory in larger size than what other mainstream brands are trying. Size is Mahindra XEV 9e’s biggest ally and lends a puff-daddy appeal. Despite all the sportiness and raw road presence, there is an air of sophistication with XEV 9e as well, making it a unique product in the market.
    2025 Mahindra XEV 9e
    Mahindra XEV 9e
    XEV 9e is the more premium of the Electric Origin SUVs launched by Mahindra. This is a larger vehicle too and features a larger battery. Prices for XEV 9e start from Rs 21.90 lakh (Ex-sh, Chennai). Upto Rs 23.59 lakh OTR Chennai (estimated). Deliveries begin next quarter. Featuring Mahindra’s new Heartcore design language, XEV 9e takes a coupe SUV shape like BE 6e, but more elegantly, appealing to more mature buyers and buyers with a sense of accomplishment.
    Massive size and unmistakable road presence are notable exterior attributes of XEV 9e. It gets connected LED DRLs, vertically arranged LED headlights, large and aerodynamic alloy wheels, stunning coupe profile and a dominating rear end.
    Mahindra XEV 9e
    On the inside, XEV 9e is a lot more special as it gets a triple screen layout for the first time in any mainstream vehicle in India. Other than that, there are a multitude of features and creature comforts in XEV 9e. Some of the notable ones are Level 2+ ADAS, Auto Park feature with remote parking, 16-speaker Harman Kardon 1400W audio system, 43-inch triple screen layout, 75-inch VisionX HUD, MAIA AI-based software and algorithms and many more.
    Mahindra XEV 9e
    Where powertrains are concerned, the headline figures are 210 kW (281 bhp) of peak power and 380 Nm of peak torque. 0-100 km/h can be done in just 6.8 seconds. Battery is a larger 79 kWh (up to) in total, yielding a claimed range of 682 km on a single charge (ARAI claimed) and a promised real world range of 500+ km on a single charge. Charging speeds have been significantly improved with INGLO platform with 20% to 80% SOC taking just 20 minutes!
    Mahindra XEV 9e Interiors
    Mahindra XEV 9e Pack 1 features
    Unlike traditional trim levels seen with other Mahindra SUVs, XEV 9e gets Packs – Pack 1, Pack 2 and Pack 3. The company has only announced the features and equipment of Pack 1, letting people know what they will get as standard for the quoted Rs 21.90 lakh (Ex-sh).
    Mahindra XEV 9e Interiors
    Performance59 kWh Battery PackSuperfast Charging Capability: 20 to 80% in just 20 mins with 140 kW DC ChargerBest-in-class Power of 170 kWElectric Power Steering with Variable Gear Ratio10 metre Tuming Circle DiameterMultiple Driving Modes with Boost ModeOne-touch Single Pedal Drive SonicSuite with Virtual Engine SoundsLink Front Suspension & 5-Link Rear SuspensionMTV-CL technologyFrequency Dependent Damping Low Rolling Resistance TyresCruise ControlIlluminated Logo B-LED HeadlampsLED Tall lampsPremium Fabric Upholstery Stylish R19 Wheels with Aero CoversPremium Finish Exterior Cladding
    Mahindra XEV 9e Frunk
    Safety6 AirbagsHigh Stiffness BodyshellAll Wheel Disc BrakesBrake-by-Wire TechIntelligent Electronic Brake Booster with 46 Value Added FeaturesDriver Drowsiness DetectionElectronic Parking BrakeRear Parking Sensors with HDCameraLow Tyre Pressure Indication
    Mahindra XEV 9e Trunk

    TechnologyCoast-to-Coast Triple Super Screens Qualcomm Snapdragon ChipsetWireless Android Auto & AppleCarPlaySuperfast SG ConnectivityPre-Installed OTT, Social Media,Shopping AppsBYOD In-Car experience Connected Features like CabinPrecooling, Scheduled Charging4 Speakers & 2 TweetersBuilt-in Amazon Alexa
    Mahindra XEV 9e Alloy Wheels
    STANDOUT FEATURESCenmfort & ConveniencePush Button StartSpacious Frunk & TrunkAuto HeadlampsRain Sensing Smart WipersFATC with Rear AC VentsHeight Adjustable Driver Seat & Seat BeltTilt & Telescopic SteeringSilent Tyres with NVH Reduction TechCooled Console Storage65 W Type C. Fast Charging Ports for Front Rear Front & Rear60:40 Split in 2nd Row Seats with Multi-Step Recline More

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    Mahindra BE 6e Launch Price Rs 18.9 lakhs (ex sh Chennai)

    Mahindra BE 6e SUVWith the new Heartcore design language, Mahindra BE 6e takes the general shape of a Coupe SUV, but looks like nothing else on sale
    After revolutionising the Indian SUV segment with ICE lifestyle and desirable offerings, Mahindra is taking greater strides in electric mobility. Set to debut its new lineup of Electric Origin SUVs, Mahindra has just launched BE 6e in India at the Unlimit India event in Chennai, taking Indian manufacturing prowess to the global stage. And when it gets to the market next quarter, you’re looking at a price of Rs 18.9 lakhs (ex sh). OTR estimated 20.36 lakh (Chennai). Pack 2 and Pack 3 prices will be announced at a later date.
    BE 6e and XEV 9e are the first vehicles among the upcoming Electric Origin SUVs from Mahindra. These will be based on a dedicated born electric platform, INGLO. As the name suggests, INGLO platform based vehicles will be made in India for the world, etching their name in the global SUV markets with world-class products.
    Mahindra BE 6e SUV
    Mahindra BE 6E PACK ONE features
    Mahindra BE 6E PACK ONE59 kWh Battery PackSuperfast Charging Capability:20 80% just 20 mins with 140 kW DC Charger Best-in-class Power of 170 kWElectric Power Steering with Flectric Power ar Ratio10 metre Turming Circle DiameterMultiple Driving Modes with Boost ModeOne-touch Single Pedal DriveSonicSuite with Virtual Engine SoundsLink Front Suspension & S-Link Rear SuspensionMTV-CL technologyFrequency Dependent Damping Low Rolling Resistance TyresCruise ControlDesignRace-ready Digital CockpitIlluminated LogoBI-LED Headlamps with DRLSLED Tail lampsPremium Fabric UpholsteryStylish R18 Wheels with Aero CoversPremium Finish Exterior Cladding
    Mahindra BE 6e
    Safety6 AirbagsHigh Stiffness BodyshellAll Wheel Disc BrakesBrake-by-Wire TechIntelligent Electronic Brake Booster with 46 Value Added FeaturesDriver Drowsiness Detection Electronic Parking BrakeRear Parking Sensors with H HD CameraLow Tyre Pressure Indication
    Mahindra BE 6e
    TechnologyDual Super ScreensQualcomm Snapdragon ChipsetWireless Androld Auto & Apple CarPlaySuperfast SG Connectivity Pre-installed OTT, Social Media,Shopping Apps BYOD In-Car experienceConnected Features like Cabin Precooling, Scheduled Charging4 Speakers & 2 TweetersBuilt-in Amazon Alexa
    Mahindra BE 6e Interiors
    STANDOUT FEATURESComfort & ConveningsPush Button StartSpacious Frunk & TrunkAuto HeadlampsRain Sensing Smart WipersFATC with Rear AC VentsHeight Adjustable Driver Seat & Seat BeltTIR & Telescopic SteeringSilent Twes with NVH Reduction TechCooled Console Storage 65 W Type C Fast Charging Ports for Front & Flear60:40 Split in 2nd Row Seats with 2-Step Recline
    Mahindra BE 6e Interiors
    Mahindra BE 6e Launch
    BE 6e is the smallest among the five Electric Origin SUVs showcased in 2022 at M.A.D.E. HQ in UK. It is also the most affordable and gets the wildest design. This might emerge as the perfect recipe to being an absolute blockbuster both here in India and in all other intended global markets. The coupe SUV design further accentuates BE 6e’s appeal.
    Mahindra BE 6e Boot
    Mahindra Heartcore design language looks like nothing else on the market. The wild exterior design is further accentuated with massive C-shaped LED DRL elements on the front and complementing LED signatures for the tail lights. Design is very aerodynamic and has many functional air channels. Most prominent one is on the bonnet.
    Mahindra BE 6e Wheels
    On the inside, BE 6e features a cockpit-like split dashboard, which is a first for any mainstream vehicle launched in India. It is feature-loaded too, as seen in the features list above. Where performance is concerned, BE 6e is no slouch. 0-100 km/h comes up in just 6.7 seconds with top-spec version, which is just bonkers. Mahindra is yet to announce pricing of Pack 2 and Pack 3 trims of BE 6e. More

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    New Suzuki V-Strom 160 ADV Debuts – India Launch Possible?

    New Suzuki V-Strom 160 ADVPresented as a versatile machine, Suzuki V-Strom 160 has capabilities across city streets and off-road environments as well
    Suzuki has expanded its V-Strom adventure tourer motorcycle range to include the V-Strom 160. The idea is to make the ADV experience accessible to a larger segment of users. While currently available only in Colombia, the bike could be introduced in India as well. Interestingly, the bike looks similar to Haojue DL160.
    Suzuki V-Strom 160 – Attractive design, colours
    While Suzuki V-Strom 160 has a lower displacement, it has the same sporty profile as the higher capacity V-Strom bikes. With its compact size, the Suzuki V-Strom 160 also seems to have a sharper profile in comparison to the likes of V-Strom 1050. In India, the V-Strom range includes the V-Strom SX 250 and the V-Strom 800DE. All V-Strom bikes have similar vibes, although each has some distinctive features for a unique look and feel.
    New Suzuki V-Strom 160 ADV
    Suzuki V-Strom 160 gets signature features associated with the V-Strom range. It includes the raised front fender, transparent windscreen, sculpted fuel tank and upswept exhaust. Other key highlights include a multifunction digital dashboard, KYB mono-shock rear suspension and USB charging port. The bike has 17-inch alloy wheels, with 100/80 front and 130/70 rear tubeless tyres. Dual-purpose tyres can unlock experiences across off-road tracks, although the usability will be primarily for on-road environments.
    Suzuki has also provided some striking colour options with the new V-Strom 160. Most eye-catching is the yellow-blue combo. It perfectly suits the bike’s sporty character. Another colour option is a white-blue combo. It is relatively sober, but comes across as quite elegant and confident.
    New Suzuki V-Strom 160 ADV
    Suzuki V-Strom 160 – Performance, specs
    Powering the new Suzuki V-Strom 160 is a 160cc engine. The single cylinder, SOHC, FI engine generates 14.75 hp and 14 Nm of torque. The bike is equipped with a 5-speed gearbox. The engine is configured to deliver a smooth performance across a wide variety of riding conditions. Ground clearance of 160 mm seems suitable for some mild off-roading needs.
    New Suzuki V-Strom 160 ADV
    Even smaller riders can ride the bike confidently, as it has a seat height of 795 mm. V-Strom 160 should be easy to handle and control with a weight of 148 kg. The bike is 2,025 mm long and has a wheelbase of 1,345 mm. Fuel tank capacity is 13 litres. At the front, the bike has standard telescopic forks. Braking setup comprises disc brakes at both ends, with dual-channel ABS as standard.
    Suzuki V-Strom 160 – India launch prospects
    As of now, Suzuki has introduced the V-Strom 160 in Colombia. The bike will be manufactured in Brazil. With the adventure tourer segment gaining popularity in India, the new V-Strom 160 could be introduced in India also. However, there’s no official details about the launch of V-Strom 160 in India.
    New Suzuki V-Strom 160 ADV is similar to Haojue DL160
    As of now, the entry-level dual-sport motorcycle segment is dominated by Hero Xpulse. Suzuki V-Strom 160 could be introduced at a lower price point. It can attract enthusiasts who want the ADV look and feel for their everyday commutes. More

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    Top 10 Motorcycle Sales Oct 2024 – Splendor, Pulsar, Raider, Xtreme, Classic, Unicorn

    New Hero Xtreme 125RIt was Hero Splendor and Honda Shine that commanded this list along with the Hero HF Deluxe each of which have posted improved YoY and MoM sales
    Following our earlier reports on top 10 two wheeler sales and best-selling scooters in Oct 2024, we now assess the highest selling motorcycles in the same month. The festive season brought in improved sales across the two wheeler segment. Now, year-end purchases and hefty discounts could further spur up demand.
    Top 10 Motorcycle Sales Oct 2024 – Hero Splendor at No. 1
    Motorcycle sales in Oct 2024 improved to 10,96,816 units, up 13.85% from 9,63,419 units sold in Oct 2023. This was a volume increase of 1,33,397 units. MoM sales also ended positively with a 4.72% improvement over 10,47,356 units sold in Sep 2024. Hero Splendor was the highest selling motorcycle last month with 3,91,612 unit sales to command a 35.70% market share. This was a 25.91% YoY growth over 3,11,031 units sold in Oct 2023. MoM sales also showed off a 4.18% growth when compared to 3,75,886 units sold in Sep 2024.
    Top 10 Motorcycle Sales Oct 2024 – YoY Comparison
    Honda Shine has also long been a hot favorite in the motorcycle segment. Its sales stood at 1,96,288 units in the past month, a 19.99% YoY and 7.95% MoM increase to command a 17.90% market share. There had been 1,63,587 units and 1,81,835 units sold in Oct 2023 and Sep 2024 respectively.
    Hero HF Deluxe, a popular commuter motorcycle, regaled both for its fuel efficiency and affordability, featured at No. 3 on this list. Sales stood at 1,24,343 units, a 5.63% YoY growth from 1,17,719 units sold in Oct 2023. MoM sales also showed strong performance with a 9.24% rise over 1,13,827 units sold in Sep 2024.
    Top 10 Motorcycle Sales Oct 2024 – MoM Comparison
    Bajaj Pulsar and Platina Sales Decline
    Two highly popular models from the Bajaj Auto stables, Pulsar and Platina featured next on this list. However, the Pulsar has witnessed falling sales which fell to 1,11,834 units in Oct 2024. This was a 30.78% YoY and 19.65% MoM de-growth. There had been 1,61,572 units and 1,39,182 units sold in Oct 2023 and Sep 2024 respectively. Platina sales also fell by 17.24% YoY to 61,689 units over 74,539 units sold in Oct 2023. It however, received increased demand on a MoM basis by 23.94% from 49,774 units sold in Sep 2024. Platina currently holds a 5.62% market share.
    TVS Raider at No. 6 saw 51,153 unit sales last month, a 7.73% YoY growth from 47,483 units sold in Oct 2023 while MoM sales were up 18.21% from 43,274 units sold in Sep 2024. In October 2024, the company also introduced the TVS Raider 125 iGO variant enhancing the company presence in the premium 125cc bike segment.
    Also from TVS stables was the Apache with 50,097 unit sales last month, a 27.84% YoY and 20.31% MoM growth. There had been 39,187 units and 41,640 units sold in Oct 2023 and Sep 2024 respectively. The Apache currently occupies a 4.57% market share.
    Hero Xtreme 125R amassed sales of 39,735 units in the past month which related to a 5.90% MoM growth from 37,520 units sold in Sep 2024. It was followed by the Royal Enfield Classic 350 with 38,297 unit sales and a 20.60% YoY and 15.82% MoM growth. Honda Unicorn also posted improved sales last month at 31,768 units which was a massive 93.66% YoY growth over 16,404 units sold in the same month last year while MoM sales grew marginally by 1.32% over 31,353 units sold in Sep 2024. More

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    2025 Tata Sierra EV Spied Next To Safari Ahead Of Launch

    Tata Sierra EV SpiedExterior detailing on the production model of Tata Sierra EV is largely the same as seen with the concept
    Tata Motors will be introducing the Sierra EV next year in both ICE and EV formats. In its concept form, the SUV was last showcased at the 2023 Auto Expo. Ahead of its launch, images of the production model have leaked online. Most of the styling bits seen with the concept version have been retained in the production model. Use of Tata’s new design language is evident, which can also be seen with other cars such as Curvv EV and upcoming Harrier EV.
    Sierra EV – What to expect?
    Sierra EV has a prominent closed-off grille section, top mounted full-width LED strip and a chiselled bonnet with distinctive lines. It has a strong presence when viewed from the side as well. Key highlights include flush door handles, door moulding, squarish wheel arches, thick body cladding, roof rails and sporty alloy wheels.
    Tata Sierra EV Spied
    Sierra EV’s charging port is located at the rear on the left side. One of the USPs of Sierra EV is that it retains the signature features of the original ICE Sierra. Key among them are the wide B pillars and the wraparound glass effect at the rear.
    With the use of a black plastic finisher, the rear windows merge seamlessly with the rear windshield. The same is applicable for the combo of the rear windows and the panoramic sunroof. However, that effect cannot be seen in these images, as only the side and front view has been captured.
    Tata Sierra EV Concept
    At the rear, Sierra EV has sharp tail lamps and a full-width LED strip. A prominent bumper section complements the SUV’s dominating profile. A tailgate mounted spare wheel, as seen with the original Sierra, would have added more dynamism. However, that’s not available. At least, not with this particular unit. The spare wheel for Sierra is likely to be in the lower section of the boot.
    Tata Sierra EV Concept
    Tata Sierra EV – Performance
    Tata has not revealed any specs about the electric powertrain to be used with Sierra EV. The SUV could be using a 45 kWh or 55 kWh battery pack. Range could be around 550 km. While a single motor setup will be standard, it remains to be seen if a dual-motor configuration with AWD is also available.
    During an investor’s meet, Tata recently announced that Sierra will be launched by the end of 2025. Before that, a preview could be provided around the 2025 festive season. Sierra will be available in both EV and ICE versions. As Tata is the market leader in the EV segment and wants to strengthen its position, Sierra EV is likely to be introduced first before the ICE model. A similar approach was utilized for Curvv. The Curvv EV was launched in August 2024, followed by the ICE variant in September 2024.
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    Yamaha Sales Breakup October 2024 – RayZR, FZ, R15, MT-15, Fascino

    Yamaha R15Team Blue is expected to launch multiple new motorcycles and scooters in India across varied segments to expand portfolio and boost sales
    Within India’s 2W industry, Yamaha has made quite a name for itself. The company has a slew of premium motorcycles and scooters on sale in India. Yamaha’s Indian portfolio lacks commuter options in both scooters (110cc) and motorcycles (100cc and 125cc). Despite that, Yamaha posts healthy numbers, as reflected in October 2024 sales.
    Yamaha Sales Breakup October 2024
    For the month of October 2024, Yamaha posted a healthy 75,349 units sales, which is not a bad number considering the company lacks budget commuter options. When compared to 67,784 units sold in October 2023 and 66,615 units sold in September 2023, Yamaha achieved positive double-digit YoY and MoM growth of 11.16% and 13.11% respectively. Volume growth stood at 7,565 units YoY and 8,734 units MoM.
    Company’s best-seller is RayZR 125 scooter, which commands a 24.49% market share of Yamaha’s total sales. With 18,451 units sold, RayZR 125 registered 33.03% YoY growth over 13,870 units and 12.15% MoM growth over 16,452 units accounting for a volume gain of 4,581 units YoY and 1,999 units MoM.
    In 2nd place, we have Yamaha’s FZ streetfighter lineup with 17,874 units sold last month. FZ lineup accounts for 23.72% of Yamaha’s total sales. When compared to 18,000 units sold last year and 13,617 units sold a month before, FZ registered 0.70% YoY decline, losing 126 units in volume and 31.26% MoM growth, gaining 4,257 units in volume.
    Yamaha Sales Breakup October 2024 – YoY
    The premium street fighter, MT-15 sold 13,405 units with an impressive 53.45% YoY growth, gaining 4,669 units in volume and 9.11% MoM growth gaining 1,119 units in volume. MT-15’s fully-faired sibling, YZF-R15, sold 11,449 units and saw a surprising 11.69% YoY decline and a 7.87% MoM growth. MT-15 and R15 accounted for 17.79% and 15.19% of Yamaha’s total sales respectively.
    In 5th position, we have Yamaha’s most affordable scooter, Fascino 125. It is also a retro-styled scooter with a 125cc scooter and weighs under 100 kg in weight. With 11,329 units sold last month, Fascino 125 was the only one on this list to register a sales decline in both YoY and MoM analysis with 2.42% YoY and 1.41% MoM decline.
    R3 and MT-03 sold 15 units combined
    Yamaha’s premium 155cc scooter, Aerox 155, sold a total of 2,826 units and fell into the green completely as it registered 8.53% YoY and a staggering 31.93% MoM growth. This is the only sporty liquid-cooled scooter on sale in India for the mainstream market and has covered a unique niche.
    Yamaha Sales Breakup October 2024 – MoM
    Yamaha’s multi-cylinder portfolio was filled with the launch of R3 and MT-03. These motorcycles are launched with premium pricing and has resulted in slower sales. Together, R3 and MT-03 sold 15 units and there was a 15.38% MoM growth. There will be more multi-cylinder motorcycles from Yamaha in the future. More

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    Honda GB500 Trademarked – Is This India-Made Royal Enfield 650 Rival?

    Honda CB500 1971 : Image For Reference OnlyWith the middleweight motorcycle segment gaining higher volumes, Honda can introduce the GB500 in India as the CB500
    At the 2024 EICMA, Honda introduced the GB350 S for European markets. Across international markets, Honda uses the GB350 name in comparison to CB350 in India. New reports indicate that Honda is also working on GB500. Which could spawn a CB500 version for Indian market to rival the likes of Royal Enfield’s ever-expanding 650cc portfolio.
    Honda GB500 registered in Europe, USA
    In a development that reveals Honda’s potential plans to launch GB500, a trademark has been filed for GB500 under motorcycle and motorcycle parts category. In the USA, the GB500 name has been trademarked with the United States Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO) on 12th November.
    Similarly, the European Union Intellectual Property Office (EUIPO) registered the name on 14th November. There’s a strong chance of GB500 making it to production and keep a check on Royal Enfield’s ever-popular and ever-expanding 650cc portfolio. If priced competitively and achieved manufacturing efficiency from their Indian facility, Honda can have a compelling twinner on their hands.
    What engine could the Honda GB500 be using?
    Smaller capacity Honda GB350 utilizes a single-cylinder, air-cooled engine. The larger GB500 won’t be adding any significant value if it too gets a single-cylinder setup. With a single-cylinder engine, the GB500 could deliver around 30 hp. In comparison, the GB350 produces 20 hp.
    Honda CB350 Classic Japan-Spec (GB350) – Puko Blue
    A gain of just around 10 hp may not be enough to motivate enthusiasts to upgrade to the larger capacity GB500. Due to these factors, it is possible that Honda GB500 could be getting a liquid-cooled engine, capable of generating upwards of 45 hp. Honda can either use the existing 500cc twin-cylinder engine or choose a newly developed engine for GB500.
    Existing Honda bikes such as the CMX 500 Rebel and CB500 models utilize a 471 cc, water-cooled, inline two-cylinder engine. It generates 47 hp at 8,500 rpm. From a cost perspective, using the existing 500cc twin engine seems more suitable. Models spawning from this platform might take CB500 name in markets like India.
    Specs, features and hardware
    Honda GB500 will be designed to comply with the A2 motorcycle licensing system in Europe. The bike might use a tubular steel frame, integrated with telescopic forks at front and dual rear shock absorbers. The bike will have disc brakes at both ends and dual-channel ABS will be offered as standard.
    Honda GB350 C for Japan is India-spec CB350
    Overall profile will be quite similar to the smaller capacity GB350 (CB350 in India). Some of the key highlights include circular headlamp and rear-view mirrors, curvy fuel tank and a single-piece seat. Similar to the GB350, the GB500 will have a comfortable riding stance.
    Honda GB500 launch date, pricing
    While Honda has registered GB500 in multiple markets, a launch is not happening anytime soon. A reasonable guess will be 2026. In terms of cost, Honda could choose a competitive pricing strategy for GB500. Something similar can already be seen with GB350 which is available in Europe at 4,490 euros (Rs 3.99 lakh).
    In India, the CB350 is available at a starting price of Rs 2 lakh (Ex-sh). Royal Enfield’s 650cc portfolio, on the other hand, starts from Rs 3.02 lakh (Ex-sh). More