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    KTM Sales, Exports May 2023 – Duke, RC, 125, 200, 250, 390 ADV

    Image – MotobikeKTM India has posted a YoY and MoM growth in domestic sales while exports fell on both counts
    KTM India, which has a current lineup of the Duke 125, RC 125, Duke 200, RC 200, Duke 250, ADV 250, Duke 390, RC 390 and ADV 390, have been seeing outstanding sales in domestic markets while exports have been dull. This has resulted in an overall de-growth for the company both in terms of YoY and MoM sales.
    Earlier this month, the company launched the 2023 KTM 200 Duke while there is also the new KTM Duke 390 to look forward to which is expected to launch by the upcoming festive season.
    KTM Domestic Sales May 2023
    Total domestic sales stood at 5,117 units in May 2023. This was a YoY growth of 68.99 percent from 3,028 units sold in May 2022 relating to a 2,089 unit volume growth. MoM sales improved marginally by 0.77 percent from 5,078 units sold in April 2023.
    It was KTM 200 (Duke and RC) that led the sales charts last month with 2,324 units sold, up 27.41 percent over 1,824 units sold in May 2022 to currently command a 45.42 percent share. MoM sales however, decreased by 13.06 percent from 2,673 units sold in April 2023 when share had stood at 52.64 percent.
    KTM India sales May 2023
    KTM 250 range also posted a YoY growth of 115.58 percent to 1,384 units in May 2023 from 642 units sold in May 2022 but MoM sales dipped by 1.42 percent or by 20 units from 1,404 units sold in April 2023.
    Increased demand was also seen for the KTM 390 range with 1,117 units sold last month, 100 percent over 558 units sold in May 2023 while it was a 33.29 percent MoM growth over 838 units sold in April 2023. Sales of KTM 125 increased by 7200 percent from just 4 units sold in May 2022 to 292 units in the past month while it was also a 79.14 percent MoM growth from 163 units sold in April 2023.
    KTM Exports May 2023
    KTM exports in May 2023 fell significantly. It was a 38.45 percent YoY de-growth to 3,932 units shipped in May 2023 from 6,388 units exported in May 2022 relating to a 2,456 unit volume. MoM exports also fell by 40.88 percent from 6,651 units shipped in April 2023 with a 2,719 unit dip in volumes. Every model in the company lineup, except for the KTM 200 has seen lower exports.
    KTM exports May 2023
    In export markets, it was the KTM 390 that amassed most sales at 1,099 units in May 2023, despite a YoY and MoM decline. Exports dipped 54.19 percent YoY and 71.17 percent MoM, taking share percentage down to 27.95 percent from 57.31 percent held in April 2023.
    Of the KTM200 range, sales increased 12.94 percent YoY and 4.29 percent MoM to 2,190 units. There had been 1,939 units exported in May 2022 and 2,100 units shipped in April 2023. Share improved from 31.57 percent to 55.70 percent MoM. KTM India exports of its 250 (464 units) and 125 (179 units) range slipped by 39.43 percent and 86.06 percent YoY and by 13.91 percent and 10.50 percent MoM respectively.
    KTM India total – May 2023
    KTM Total Sales May 2023
    Lower exports brought down total sales figures for KTM India in May 2023. Total sales dipped 3.90 percent YoY to 9,049 units in the past month from 9,416 units sold in May 2022. MoM sales also fell by 22.85 percent from 11,729 units sold in April 2023.
    KTM200 sales stood at 4,514 units, up 19.96 percent from 3,763 units sold in May 2022 but dipped 5.43 percent from 4,773 units sold in April 2023. KTM 390 however posted both a 25.06 percent YoY and 52.34 percent MoM decline in total sales to 2,216 units.
    Of the 250 range, total sales improved by 31.25 percent to 1,848 units YoY but fell 4.89 percent MoM while KTM 125 saw a 63.43 percent dip in sales to 471 units from 1,288 units sold in May 2022. MoM sales performance improved by 29.75 percent over 363 units sold in April 2023. More

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    Shah Rukh Khan Regrets Not Wearing Helmet 31 Years Ago

    Shar Rukh Khan in Deewana, 1992On Twitter, Shah Rukh Khan regretted not wearing a helmet in the movie Deewana, released in 1992, 31 years agoHuman beings as a whole are not impervious to some of their actions done while they were young. It is only when we grow up and mature, our perspectives change. Then we look back and question ourselves why we did what we did. A similar feeling swept past B-Town A-lister Shah Rukh Khan’s mind recently.A Twitter user Pratt (@thatladka) posted a clip from the movie Deewana released in 1992. In that clip, we can see a young Shah Rukh Khan on a Yamaha ADV motorcycle accompanied by a bunch of his friends in the movie, who were riding Yamaha RX100s, Hero Honda CD100s and Royal Enfield motorcycles singing Koi Na Koi Chahiye song.Shah Rukh Khan regrets not wearing a helmetPratt asks Shah Rukh Khan (@iamsrk) “Sir how do you feel when you watch this epic entry of yourself. It’s been 31 years and it still gives us chills”. He expresses his awe to this entry scene from Deewana in which none of the riders and pillions, including Shah Rukh Khan wore a helmet.Shah Rukh Khan replied responsibly, “Should have worn a helmet”. People often forget that the scene that they see on big screens is staged and said road is temporarily converted to a set with the permission of responsible authorities and that’s how they can get away from not wearing a helmet.Should have worn a helmet!!! https://t.co/pFr5hbNdXg— Shah Rukh Khan (@iamsrk) June 25, 2023Instead of understanding this, people tend to recreate the same on roads that are not only dangerous but illegal as well. We should all strive to be responsible citizens and wear mandated helmets at all times.Is it time for movie stars to wear helmets in the movies too?A big fat yes. Movie directors tend to overlook what kind of an impact celebrity actions in movies make on general consensus. If you take the most iconic motorcycle chase scene from Mission Impossible Rogue Nation involving a bunch of BMW S1000RRs, Tom Cruise doesn’t wear a helmet in that scene.In this movie, after crashing his car, Tom Cruise picks up a motorcycle from a dead/injured accomplice of the antagonist. The character didn’t care enough to pick up the helmet of this fallen rider, who was just beside where he picked up sunglasses and motorcycle.This attitude of moviemakers should probably change in the future and show responsible and safe motorcycle commutes. Helmet is often one of the most crucial safety elements for a rider at any speed. Manufacturers like TVS are developing helmet detection systems and Ola Electric is going a step ahead and developing a system mandating helmets. More

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    New Hero Maxi Scooter Spied Testing – Aerox 155 Rival?

    New Hero Maxi Scooter SpiedConsidering the maxi-scooter’s brawny proportions, the 163cc engine from Xtreme 160R seems like a perfect matchWith recent launch of Xtreme 160R 4V and upcoming Karizma fully-faired bike, it is evident that Hero MotoCorp has stepped up focus on premium segment. The company seems to be following a similar strategy for its scooter portfolio as well. Earlier this month, a design patent had revealed details about Hero’s new maxi-scooter.In the latest development, a maxi-scooter in camouflage has been spotted near Hero MotoCorp’s R&D centre in Jaipur. It appears to be largely the same as the scooter revealed in the design patent. As the test mule looks near-production ready, it won’t be surprising to see its launch around festive season or by end of this year. Hat tip to automotive enthusiast Pushpender for sharing these exclusive spy shots.New Hero Maxi Scooter SpiedHero maxi-scooter featuresSome of the key highlights of Hero’s first-ever maxi-scooter include split headlamp setup, angular front fascia, trendy rear view mirrors and sharp turn indicators. An all-LED lighting setup is likely for the scooter. It can be seen with a stubby upswept exhaust. Side panels have sharp design elements, which help achieve a sporty profile for the scooter.Raked design of the stepped seat ensures a sporty stance, all while allowing optimal control and handling across busy city streets. The single-piece seat seems comfortable for both rider and pillion. The test mule is missing the rear rack that was seen in the design patent. It is likely that the rear rack will be offered as an accessory. The scooter is equipped with an ergonomically placed handlebar.New Hero Maxi Scooter SpiedAlthough not clear in the images, it is likely that Hero’s new maxi-scooter will have a fully digital instrument console. It could get telematics features, accessible via Hero Connect mobile app. Some of the key telematics features could include ignition alert, SoS alert, accident/crash alert, topple alert, over-speed alert, theft alert, battery removal alert, geofence alert and remote immobilization.Hero maxi-scooter performance, specsHero’s maxi-scooter could be a rival to Yamaha Aerox 155. In that case, it could borrow the 163 cc, air-cooled engine from Xtreme 160R. It generates 15 bhp of max power and 14 Nm of peak torque. Some tweaks could be performed to align the engine with the specific needs of the scooter. For reference, Aerox 155 is equipped with a 155cc, liquid cooled engine. It makes 15 PS and 13.9 Nm.Hero new maxi-scooter has telescopic forks at front and a single-sided monoshock unit at rear. It gets a disc brake at front. Single-channel ABS could be offered as standard. One of the most notable features is the large alloy wheels, which appear to be 14-inch units. Large wheels not only improve street presence, but also offer smoother and safer rides across bad patches.To push sales, Hero could offer its first-ever maxi-scooter at an affordable price. While Aerox 155 is available at a starting price of Rs 1.43 lakh, Hero maxi scooter could be launched at around Rs 1.20 lakh (ex.sh). More

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    2023 Hero Xtreme 160R 4V Review – Defying Expectations, Embracing Adventure

    New Hero Xtreme 160R 4V ReviewA Close Look at the Upgraded Design and Performance – 2023 Hero Xtreme 160R 4V ReviewIntroducing the 2023 Hero Xtreme 160R 4V – A motorcycle that has the potential to emerge as the true champion of its segment. With a design that exudes a hint of Bajaj-inspired flair, this upgraded version of the Xtreme 160R boasts an impressive addition of two extra valves. A key differentiator that sets it apart from its predecessor.Hero has meticulously engineered its efforts into crafting a package that not only meets but exceeds the expectations of today’s discerning buyers in this competitive segment. Let’s delve into the intricate details of this bike and explore if it outshines its rivals.New Hero Xtreme 160R 4V Review2023 Hero Xtreme 160R 4V: Embodying Style and Functionality for the Gen Z BuyerThe Hero Xtreme 160R 4V immediately captivates with its dynamic design, which elegantly blends elements reminiscent of Bajaj motorcycles. When bathed in sunlight, its contours come alive, leaving an impression.In a conversation with a Gen Z buyer looking for a bike in the 150cc segment, the focus is on finding a bike with a cool and trendy appearance. The customer seeks a bike with vibrant and funky colours, muscular craftsmanship, and a sporty appeal. They desire a headlamp that resembles those found on higher-displacement bikes, a kickass belly pan, and inverted forks that are visibly large, creating the illusion of a more powerful cc machine approaching.New Hero Xtreme 160R 4V ReviewThey are drawn to a thick exhaust, similar to the Dominar, and insist on a split seat design that looks striking, with a significant step where they can position themselves. Additionally, they express the need for a digital instrument console in a dark theme, complete with Bluetooth connectivity to a smartphone app, and a built-in USB charger for convenient device charging.Performance is paramount to this buyer. They aspire to overtake bikes like the Dukes and Pulsars. However, they also emphasise the importance of a soft suspension that can absorb the impact of speed breakers and potholes commonly found on Indian roads. Vibration-free riding, even at top speeds, is a non-negotiable requirement. Price is a significant factor for them, as they are willing to wait for the best deal that offers the desired features and performance.Xtreme 160R 4V Races Ahead with its Impressive Power Output2023 Hero Xtreme 4V is a motorcycle that combines such real-world expectations into a competitive and affordable package, especially in its base variant.The inclusion of the “4V” moniker, which gained popularity with the Xpulse 200, is expected to work in favour of the Xtreme 160R. Hero has made significant engineering changes to the engine, including the addition of two valves and an oil cooler to manage increased performance. Redesigned crankcase and cylinder block, along with a revamped gearbox, contribute to improved engine responsiveness and seamless gear shifts. During our test ride, gearshifts were exceptionally smooth and precise.New Hero Xtreme 160R 4V ReviewThe 2023 Xtreme 160R 4V boasts impressive performance specifications, with a maximum power output of 16.9 hp at 8,500 rpm, surpassing its predecessor by 1.7 hp (around 10%). This results in noticeably quicker acceleration without compromising overall top speed. Hero MotoCorp claims it has the fastest acceleration in its segment, and although we couldn’t objectively verify this, we can confirm that the acceleration felt notably aggressive. The bike maintained its power effortlessly as it surged past 80 kmph, accompanied by minimal vibrations that were more of a bark than a bite.Mastering the Handling Track and Conquering Different Road SurfacesOur test ride took place at Hero’s Global Centre of Innovation and Technology in Jaipur, featuring a 16-kilometre-long test track with 45 different road surfaces designed to replicate real-world riding conditions. While we couldn’t experience all of them, our brief encounter with the Xtreme 160R 4V on the handling track, as well as on the plain and hilly surfaces, left us with the impression that it is one of the most comfortable bikes available. It is particularly suitable for riders with lower-back and spinal issues, often recommended by doctors just like the Honda Unicorn.New Hero Xtreme 160R 4V ReviewThe suspension, particularly at the rear, is exceptionally soft, hindering aggressive cornering and quick manoeuvres. While we didn’t experiment with different settings, the 7-step adjustable Showa monoshock at the rear allows for customization if a slightly stiffer setup is desired. On the other hand, the 37mm KYB USD front fork is well-tuned. The braking performance is adequate, although the bike’s aesthetics and muscular appearance may create expectations of a more aggressive bite. Nevertheless, the bike remains nimble and easy to adapt to. The stock tyres provide sufficient grip on dry, sunny roads. Xtreme 160R 4V Ownership: The Perfect Blend of Affordability and ExcitementMoving on to areas of improvement, there are a few notable points. The mirrors could offer a wider field of vision, although they do not suffer from excessive vibration. The front brake could have smoother operation, avoiding the false sensation of braking occurring prematurely. The placement and angle of the USB port could be more conducive to preventing cable bending and potential failure over time. The instrument cluster, while impressive in the dark, suffers from low brightness during daylight, making it challenging to read under sunlight. Additionally, the awkward tilt angle of the cluster exacerbates the issue. These issues should be addressed to fully utilize the cluster’s well-designed features.New Hero Xtreme 160R 4V Review2023 Hero Xtreme 160R 4V is an impressive motorcycle that caters to both young riders and commuters. It exudes a fresh and captivating appeal, featuring a vibrant and refined engine that operates without any noticeable vibrations. With its comprehensive range of features and amenities, owning and riding this bike is a delightful experience. To put it simply, it’s the kind of motorcycle that would make even conventional dads look cool in the eyes of their kids and be embraced by the younger generation. Hero has truly hit the mark with this one!What sets it apart – Key Features, Specifications, and PricingPerformance:163cc 4 Valve Air-Oil cooled BS-VI engineMaximum power output: 16.9 Ps @ 8500 RPMPeak torque:14.6Nm @ 6500 rpmBest-in-class acceleration: 0-60 km/h in 4.41 secondsFastest 160cc motorcycle in its segment (as per internal testing)Handling and Control:37mm dia inverted Front Fork Suspension by KYB (Pro Variant)7-step Pre-Load adjustable rear suspensionSharp handling and maneuverabilityLowest-in-class kerb weight: 144 kg (Base & Connected 2.0 Variant), 145 kg (Pro Variant)Powerful petal disc brakesDesign:Muscular and sporty design languageRobotic Headlamp with fairing wingletsChiseled fuel tank and under cowlInterchangeable seats (single and split options)Ride Comfort:Well-balanced ergonomicsIncreased legroom for rider and pillionLowered handlebarComfortable pillion split seat optionAmple split rear gripsTech-Laden Features:All-LED package for position lamp, low beam, high beam, tail lamp, signature tail lamp, and winkersInverted speedometer with over 20 features on displayBluetooth-enabled features such as call and SMS alerts, turn-by-turn navigation, find my vehicle, etc.Hero Connect 2.0:Vehicle health and safety notificationsRemote immobilization for enhanced securityGeo Fence feature for geographical area alertsSOS alert, low fuel alert, over-speeding alert, topple alert, etc.In-app navigation services and real-time vehicle trackingCaptivating Colours:Standard (Single Ch ABS with Front & Rear Disc): Blazing Sports Red, Matt Slate BlackConnected 2.0 (Single Ch ABS With Front & Rear Disc): Matt Slate BlackPro (Single Ch ABS With Front & Rear Disc, USD Forks, Split Seat): Neon Shooting Star and Matt Slate Black.Pricing (Ex-Showroom, Delhi):Standard Variant: INR 127,300/-Connected 2.0 Variant: INR 132,800/-Pro Variant: INR 136,500/- More

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    Traffic Cops’ Jobs Changing as Some Cities Ban Minor Traffic Stops

    As cars, drivers, and road rules change, law enforcement strategies must also adjust.In Ann Arbor, Michigan, the city council will vote next month to change the rules surrounding the reasons a police officer can use to pull someone over to reduce racial profiling.In Washington, D.C., the city will send text and mail messages to high-risk drivers, warning them that “Someone in your household is driving dangerously.”American roads are changing. Whether it’s the challenging public discussion about the best way for police officers to conduct traffic stops or the rise in traffic fatalities during the pandemic, things are different out there. That’s why, from Michigan to New York, strategies to make roads safer for everyone are changing, too.In Michigan, the Ann Arbor City Council voted 9–0 earlier this month to propose a new law that would reduce police officers’ ability to pull someone over for “minor offenses.” The proposed Driving Equality Ordinance draws a line between routine traffic stops and eventual incarceration outcomes for Black, Indigenous, and People of Color (BIPOC). The council’s proposed solution is to take away an officer’s right to pull someone over for minor offenses such as a cracked windshield.Interesting New Ways to Get a TicketThe stakes for these pretextual stops can also be higher than being locked up, too. “The harms of traffic stops are not equally felt,” the proposal reads. “More than a quarter of people killed in traffic stops are Black, despite Black people making up only 12 percent of the population.” The proposal also notes that stops for minor offenses “are disproportionately carried out against people of color and return negligible public safety benefits.””When you get pulled over, you have to wonder if I did something wrong or am I being profiled,” the founding chairperson of Ann Arbor’s Independent Police Oversight Commission, Lisa Jackson, told local ABC 7 News.A final vote on the proposed law is scheduled for early July. Bigger cities, including Pittsburgh and Philadelphia, have passed similar legislation in recent years, as Bloomberg has reported.Unwelcome Texts from the CityOver in Washington, D.C., the city’s Department of Transportation has a different idea to reduce the number of traffic deaths, crashes, and other traffic violations. In partnership with The Lab @ D.C. (a part of the city government), the city will send text messages and physical mail to drivers who have had some sort of traffic citation or violation. The customized messages are meant to get drivers to think about their actions and will reference details about the driver’s vehicle, the violations it has been connected to in the past and a warning that the vehicle is at higher risk of a crash than others because of this history.According to the Washington Post, one of the mailers includes the text: “Someone in your household is driving dangerously. Your vehicle has a history of speeding and/or running red lights and this is placing the drivers and passengers of your vehicle at a high risk of getting into a crash.”The city created a list of 100,000 high-risk drivers, and a subset of these people will get the text or mail messages (or both). Drivers can opt out of the messages after the first one. During the 12-month program, the DOT and The Lab will then see which category of drivers, if any, see any noticeable improvements.”The goal is to create awareness, regardless of whether or not anybody has signed off for specific alerts,” The Lab director Sam Quinney told the Post.Contributing EditorSebastian Blanco has been writing about electric vehicles, hybrids, and hydrogen cars since 2006. His articles and car reviews have appeared in the New York Times, Automotive News, Reuters, SAE, Autoblog, InsideEVs, Trucks.com, Car Talk, and other outlets. His first green-car media event was the launch of the Tesla Roadster, and since then he has been tracking the shift away from gasoline-powered vehicles and discovering the new technology’s importance not just for the auto industry, but for the world as a whole. Throw in the recent shift to autonomous vehicles, and there are more interesting changes happening now than most people can wrap their heads around. You can find him on Twitter or, on good days, behind the wheel of a new EV.  More

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    TVS Apache RTX name trademarked – New rival to KTM 390 ADV?

    TVS Apache RTX 310 RenderThe 313cc-based TVS Apache RTX ADV motorcycle is likely to launch first – Followed by a 200cc ADV motorcycle in the futureIndia is a vast country and has varied biodiversity, ecosystems and terrains. This has led to a rise in a new crop of adventure motorcycles to feed one’s wanderlust. In mainstream motorcycle market, ADVs (real and pseudo) like Hero XPulse, Honda CB200X, Royal Enfield Himalayan and Scram, Suzuki V-Strom SX 250, BMW G 310 GS, KTM Adventure range, Yezdi Adventure and more.TVS never had any ADVs (real or pseudo) and that is likely to change soon. The company has trademarked the TVS Apache RTX name in India. The X letter is highly probable to be an adventure or crossover-type motorcycle that will soon grace the Indian market. Will it be a 200cc or 310cc? Our sources have revealed quite some revelations about this motorcycle. Let’s take a look.TVS Apache RTX Name TrademarkedThe homegrown Indian automaker is fond of its Apache moniker. So much so, there are multiple variations of it, for multiple body styles. In this sense, Apache RTR name stands for its street naked motorcycle range, Apache RR name stands for its faired motorcycle range. So, it is only logical to assume TVS Apache RTX name should stand for its ADV range.When we say TVS don’t have any ADVs, we mean to say that TVS doesn’t sell them with its name. The partnership between TVS and BMW has facilitated TVS to manufacture a 313cc ADV motorcycle for BMW. That said, this partnership between TVS and BMW seems to be slightly one-sided in the favour of the latter.TVS Apache RTX name trademarkedAs BMW procured three motorcycles (G 310 R, G 310 RR, G 310 GS) based on this 313cc platform, while TVS managed just one (Apache RR 310). Sources tell us that TVS is on the verge of launching its 313cc-based ADV and naked motorcycles soon.Minimal design changes with their BMW counterparts are highly likely. Most probably, TVS’ versions will just be re-branding exercise like it was with BMW G 310 RR, which was pound to pound, an Apache RR 310, without SmartXonnect Bluetooth (for Rs. 28,000 extra).The same 310cc engine in a similar state of tuneWhen launched, TVS Apache RTX 310 will get the same 313cc single-cylinder engine (33.52 bhp, 28 Nm, 6MT) as BMW G 310 GS and will feature similar componentry as well. Further down the line, TVS might incorporate a 200cc-based Apache RTX motorcycle as well, to rival Hero Xpulse 200 4V.2023 TVS Apache 310 Street renderWhen we first got this scoop, our rendering artist Pratyush Rout penned down his vision of what Apache RTX line could look like. He has created renders of both the street naked and ADV versions of their BMW counterparts. When TVS launches them, these motorcycles will get SmartXonnect Bluetooth system and compatible smartphone app as well. Pricing will be less than BMW counterparts despite feature additions. More

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    Bajaj Sales Breakup May 2023 – Pulsar, Chetak, Platina, Dominar, Avenger

    Bajaj PulsarBajaj Auto sales in May 2023 saw the Pulsar range most popular in domestic markets while it was the Boxer that commanded the export listIt was seen that while sales in domestic markets improved significantly, exports finished in the red. Total sales (domestic + exports) stood at 2,97,733 units in May 2023. This was a growth of over 2,39,934 units sold in May 2022. Domestic sales improved by 102.27 percent to 1,89,526 units in May 2023 from 93,701 units sold in May 2022. Volume growth stood at 95,825 units. It was also a MoM growth from 1,76,512 units sold in April 2023.Bajaj Pulsar saw the highest sales in May 2023 with 1,28,403 units sold during the month. This was an 85.44 percent growth from 69,241 units sold in May 2022. The Pulsar range commands a 67.75 percent share in the company lineup.Bajaj Sales Breakup May 2023 – Pulsar at No. 1In this range, it was the Pulsar 125cc that received most attention with 87,071 units sold last month, relating to a 54.39 percent YoY growth from 56,396 units sold in May 2022. Pulsar 150cc sales grew by 187 percent YoY to 19,034 units from 6,632 units sold in May 2022 while Pulsar 200cc and Pulsar 250cc sales were at 16,155 units and 6,143 units respectively.Of the Platina, the company sold 42,154 units last month, a YoY growth of 143.16 percent from 17,336 units sold in May 2022. Sales of Chetak electric scooter improved by 261.95 percent YoY to 9,208 units from 2,544 units sold in May 2022 while it was a 386.48 percent YoY growth for the Bajaj CT with 6,115 units sold last month, over 1,257 units sold in May 2022.Bajaj sales breakup May 2023Bajaj Avenger also posted a YoY growth of 20.45 percent to 2,544 units last month of which the Avenger 200 accounted for 1,612 unit sales and the Avenger 250cc saw sales of 932 units. Dominar sales on the other hand dipped 9 percent YoY to 1,102 units from 1,211 units sold in May 2022 of which there were 519 units of Dominar 250cc sold relating to a YoY growth though there were only 583 units of Dominar 500cc sold down from 769 units sold in May 2022.Bajaj Boxer Dominate Export List in May 2023Bajaj Auto Exports in May 2023 fell by 26 percent YoY to 1,08,207 units from 1,46,233 units shipped in May 2022. This was a volume de-growth of 38,026 units. Every model in the list has posted YoY de-growth except for the Pulsar and Platina.Bajaj Boxer topped sales charts with 58,476 units shipped last month, down 31.43 percent over 85,282 units shipped in May 2022. The Boxer 125cc saw increased demand by 99.49 percent to 7,086 units up from 3,552 units shipped in May 2022 while exports of Boxer 150cc dipped by 24.95 percent to 11,048 units.Bajaj exports breakup May 2023Pulsar exports improved by 13.94 percent to 27,691 units in May 2023 with positive demand seen for Pulsar 200cc (15,883 units) and 250cc (3,774 units) but in the red for Pulsar 125cc (3,690 units) and 150cc (4,344 units). Bajaj CT exports fell by 28.52 percent to 13,656 units in May 2023 from 19,104 units sold in May 2022 while Dominar exports slipped by 6.91 percent to 3,314 units in the past month from 3,560 units shipped in May 2022.Positive YoY growth was also reported for the Bajaj Platina which was up 1.59 percent to 3,060 units from 3,012 units shipped in May 2022. Of the Platina range, it was the Platina 110cc that commanded the most attention with 2,580 units shipped last month while there had been only 480 units of Platina 125cc exported in the same month. The export list also included Bajaj Discover (1,984 units), down 81.09 percent from 10,492 units sold in May 2022. Avenger exports also fell by 95 percent to just 24 units in May 2023 from 480 units exported in May 2022 while Chetak exports were down to 2 units last month. More

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    John C. Reilly’s ’68 Chevy Malibu Convertible Is up for Sale on Bring a Trailer

    Comedic and character actor John C. Reilly is selling the ’68 Chevy Malibu convertible he’s owned for more than 30 years.Largely original apart from the turquoise repaint, this Malibu is a pure SoCal cruiser with a 307-cubic-inch V-8 and a two-speed Powerglide transmission.The auction ends on Tuesday, June 27.Car and DriverPerhaps best known as the “Shake” to longtime collaborator Will Ferrell’s “Bake” in Talladega Nights: The Ballad of Ricky Bobby, actor John C. Reilly has appeared in dozens of roles since his film debut in 1989. Sometime in 1992, he bought this 1968 Chevrolet Malibu convertible, which he’s owned all through a long and storied career.Bring a TrailerNow, it’s up for auction on Bring A Trailer, which like Car and Driver, is part Hearst Autos. It’s your chance to own both a machine that’s the perfect convertible for cruising slow on California’s highways and has also been anointed with just a touch of celebrity status.Bring a TrailerRelated StoriesNew for 1968, the second-generation Chevelle could be ordered with some serious firepower under the hood. Today, it seems most survivors have a 350-cubic-inch V-8 or even a 396, often with a few performance parts bolted on. This ’68 Malibu convertible, however, is the furthest thing from a would-be dragstrip hero. It still has the base V-8: a 307-cubic-inch engine good for just 200 horsepower paired with a two-speed Powerglide transmission, along with 14-inch steel wheels wearing 205/75 whitewall tires. The paint has been changed from Ash Gold to Tripoli Turquoise (a period-correct Chevrolet color), but this Malibu is basically true to what it was when it was new.Bring a TrailerThis is a pure California car—quite literally, as it was assembled at GM’s Fremont Assembly plant near San Francisco. When Reilly bought this car, he would have already appeared in Days of Thunder and could have been seen on-screen in a supporting role in Hoffa. Unlike the Rolls convertible Reilly drove as team owner Jerry Buss in Winning Time: The Rise of the Lakers Dynasty, this Chevrolet convertible has a touch of the understated about it. Drop the top on this classic Chevy, load the soundtrack to Walk Hard: The Dewey Cox Story into the aftermarket Alpine stereo, and head for the beach to catch the last rays of that California sunset.Contributing EditorBrendan McAleer is a freelance writer and photographer based in North Vancouver, B.C., Canada. He grew up splitting his knuckles on British automobiles, came of age in the golden era of Japanese sport-compact performance, and began writing about cars and people in 2008. His particular interest is the intersection between humanity and machinery, whether it is the racing career of Walter Cronkite or Japanese animator Hayao Miyazaki’s half-century obsession with the Citroën 2CV. He has taught both of his young daughters how to shift a manual transmission and is grateful for the excuse they provide to be perpetually buying Hot Wheels. More