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      in Motor News

      Tesla’s Controversial Steering Yoke Now Costs $250

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      The available steering yoke on the Tesla Model S and Model X is now a $250 option.Earlier this year, Tesla made a regular steering wheel a no-cost option alongside the controversial yoke, which had been mandatory since a 2021 redesign.The irony is that Tesla CEO Elon Musk once said there’s no chance a traditional steering wheel would return.Tesla’s steering-yoke saga continues. Back in January of this year, the automaker made the decision to once again offer a regular steering wheel on the Model S and Model X. It was a no-cost option that was available along with the yoke-style wheel that had been mandatory on both models since their 2021 redesign. Now, the configurator on Tesla’s website shows the sawed-off steering wheel as a $250 option.TeslaThe steering yoke was controversial from the start, with questions surrounding whether it was even legal. From there, critics and fans quibbled over its safety as well as how well it worked in real-world driving. During Car and Driver’s test of a 2021 Tesla Model S Plaid, we pointed out that the yoke’s main flaw is that the company didn’t pair it with a quicker steering ratio, which at times resulted in awkwardly reaching for the wrong side of it when starting to turn.Of course, the most ironic part of all the yoke hoopla is comments made by Tesla CEO Elon Musk back in July 2021. When directly asked on Twitter whether there was any chance a normal steering wheel would be offered again as an option, Musk tweeted back, “No”.This content is imported from twitter. You may be able to find the same content in another format, or you may be able to find more information, at their web site.Well, it looks like the turns have tabled, as not only is a regular steering wheel back, but it comes standard. Plus, now people who like the yoke have to put their money where their mouth is and shell out $250.This content is imported from poll. You may be able to find the same content in another format, or you may be able to find more information, at their web site.Senior EditorEric Stafford’s automobile addiction began before he could walk, and it has fueled his passion to write news, reviews, and more for Car and Driver since 2016. His aspiration growing up was to become a millionaire with a Jay Leno–like car collection. Apparently, getting rich is harder than social-media influencers make it seem, so he avoided financial success entirely to become an automotive journalist and drive new cars for a living. After earning a degree at Central Michigan University and working at a daily newspaper, the years of basically burning money on failed project cars and lemon-flavored jalopies finally paid off when Car and Driver hired him. His garage currently includes a 2010 Acura RDX, a manual ’97 Chevy Camaro Z/28, and a ’90 Honda CRX Si. More

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      in Motor News

      Watch This Hyundai Ioniq 5 Crab Walk into a Parking Space

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      This content is imported from youTube. You may be able to find the same content in another format, or you may be able to find more information, at their web site.This is the first time we’ve seen Hyundai’s “e-Corner” four-wheel independent steering system in action on public roads for the first time, and we’re mesmerized. The system, first shown in January, uses a Hyundai Ioniq 5 as a testbed to show off how it can turn each wheel up to 90 degrees individually, allowing for some truly impressive turning maneuvers and ultra-tight park jobs. More on the Ioniq 5With all four wheels at full 90-degree lock, parallel parking is easy. All the car has to do is pull up to the spot and drive sideways, slotting perfectly into place. The e-Corner system can also perform tight 180-degree pivot turns by adjusting just the back wheels, or pull off a 360-degree tank turn by adjusting all four wheels, all without occupying more than the car’s initial footprint. The e-Corner system, a product of Hyundai’s Mobis parts division, uses in-wheel motors along with bespoke brake-by-wire and steer-by-wire systems. The company hasn’t said whether it plans to develop the system for mass production, though it’s easy to see why it’d be nice to have, especially if you live in a tight urban environment. Road & Track staff writer with a taste for high-mileage, rusted-out projects and amateur endurance racing. More

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      in Bike

      2023 Yamaha Neo’s Electric Scooter – New Colour Launched, Price Hike

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      2023 Yamaha Neo’s Electric ScooterYamaha Neo’s electric scooter has showcased to dealers in India – Yamaha is working on launching an electric scooter soon
      Yamaha currently sells the R15, MT-15 and FZ range of motorcycles in India while the company’s scooter range includes the likes of Aerox 155, RayZR Street Rally 125 FI, RayZR 125 FI and Fascino 125 FI. The electric two wheeler segment has seen a near 188 percent YoY growth in FY2023 from sales in FY 2022 and Yamaha expects to garner some portion of this pie.
      Keen to have an electric offering in the country where demand is increasing by leaps and bounds, a new Yamaha electric scooter India launch is planned for next year. Yamaha has already showcased two electric scooters to their dealers in India. These are E01 and Neo’s. Both these electric scooters are likely to play a major role in Yamaha’s global two wheeler EV portfolio.
      2023 Yamaha Neo’s Electric Scooter
      Yamaha has updated the Neo’s electric scooter with new features and colour schemes. It gets a new turquoise colour scheme as a part of its update for the 2023 model year. This new colour option is being offered along with Midnight Black and Milky White that have been available on the NEO’s electric scooter ever since its launch in 2022.
      Yamaha Neo’s electric scooter sports retro styling with sleek lines and minimalist body work. It gets LED headlamps with LED DRLs, LED tail lamps positioned on its number plate LED turn signals. There is an LCD display with smartphone connectivity, offering the rider updates on battery status, calls, messages and route tracking.
      2023 Yamaha Neo’s Electric Scooter
      Battery Specs, Range
      Yamaha Neo’s electric scooter draws its power via a 2.03kW electric motor paired with two removable lithium-ion batteries. Yamaha claims a 70 km range on the Neo’s electric scooter and a top speed limited to 40 km/h.
      Charging time is around 8 hours. In 2022, the Yamaha Neo’s electric scooter was priced at 3,199 Euros (US $3,527 or Rs 2.88 lakh). Following its recent update, it now sells at 3,599 Euros (US $3,968 or Rs 3.24 lakh).
      New Yamaha Electric Scooter for India
      Compared to the electric scooters on sale in India, the Yamaha Neo’s seems a lot more expensive. India launch of the Neo’s might not happen. Instead, we are more likely to get a Neo’s based localized version of Yamaha electric scooter.
      2023 Yamaha Neo’s Electric Scooter
      Yamaha has confirmed that the prototype testing of their first electric scooter for India has started. Launch is expected sometime next year. Upon launch, it will rival the likes of Ather 450X, TVS iQube, Bajaj Chetak, Hero Vida, etc. Yamaha electric scooter price could be in the Rs 1.5 lakh range. More

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      in Bike

      Royal Enfield Himalayan 450 Inching Towards Launch – New Spy Shots

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      New Himalayan 450 Liquid-cooled EngineThe 450cc liquid-cooled engine on Royal Enfield Himalayan 450 is expected to develop 35 bhp power and 40 Nm torque
      Royal Enfield is expanding its portfolio to include a new 450cc lineup. The first of which is likely to be Himalayan 450, followed by Scram 450 at a later date. Both these motorcycles will sit above the current 411cc Himalayan and Scram lineup. Royal Enfield’s new 450cc platform is likely to be in final testing stages.
      This new 450cc motor will throw powerful jabs against fast-paced rivals like BMW G 310 GS and current 390 Adventure and upcoming 2024 KTM 390 Adventure. Another rival will be the upcoming Hero Xpulse 420. Recent spy shots reveal most of the componentry and hardware offered by Royal Enfield. Let’s take a look.
      The beefy Royal Enfield Himalayan 450
      After Classic 350 Bobber test mules, we get to witness Himalayan 450 testing as well. For starters, Royal Enfield has used hard cladding instead of wraps or soft cladding to camouflage its upcoming motorcycle. It reminds me of creative improv masks from Covid-19 pandemic era. Except for that, there are a lot of firsts associated with this upcoming motorcycle.
      Himalayan 450 is the first single-cylinder motorcycle from the company to get LED headlights, LED turn indicators, USD front forks, and a fully digital instrument cluster among others. Other 350cc and 411cc motorcycles from Royal Enfield miss out on these features. In terms of powertrain-related firsts, Himalayan 450 will be the first single-cylinder bike to get a liquid-cooling setup and rumoured to get a 6-speed gearbox.
      New Himalayan 450 Digital Console
      To keep costs in check, Royal Enfield is unlikely to offer ride-by-wire, slip and assist clutch, quick shifter and the likes. That said, dual-channel ABS with switchable functionality at the rear wheel is highly probable. Allowing fast-paced rear wheel turns and associated fun. The fully digital instrument cluster can get navigation and Bluetooth functionality built-in, negating the need for a Tripper screen.
      A large radiator at front, upmarket switchgear, a new sump guard, grippy off-road foot pegs with removable rubber, and a new brake fluid reservoir are notable elements. Royal Enfield isn’t offering fins on the engine for the retro vibe as Jawa Adventure does. The test mule looks production ready.
      Performance, handling, price, rivals
      Exact figures for the new 450cc engine are not yet out. 35 bhp of power and 40 Nm of torque are likely figures. Rider’s triangle is fairly comfortable with an upright riding position. Standing and riding should be easy as well. The rumoured sixth gear will offer better long-leggedness, sitting at lower engine speeds at higher vehicle speeds.
      New Himalayan 450 USD Forks
      The front wiser looks like it offers decent wind protection, and seats look comfy enough as well. We would have liked wire-spoke wheels with tubeless tires. But that is not the case. Front 19” and rear 17” wheel sizes could be similar to Himalayan 411 as well. Royal Enfield Himalayan 450 prices could be around Rs. 2.5 lakh. Launch expected early next year. More

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      in Electric Cars

      Tata vs MG Electric Cars: An Advertising War for Your Attention

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      Tata vs MGTata vs. MG: The Electric Car War of Words – Advertisement Get Creative – Join the Debate
      The advertising war between auto manufacturers is an interesting phenomenon that has been going on for years. In this case, we have jabs being traded over 2 respective electric vehicles.
      What started as a single image shared by a Tata dealership on Facebook, has taken on a life of its own during the course of the day. The launch of the MG Comet micro EV has sparked a new advertising war. And it keeps the focus on electric cars. The marketing messages used on behalf of both companies reflect the growing conversations around electric vehicles, and the need to distinguish oneself in the marketplace.
      Tata and MG: A Battle of Electric Proportions
      “Own a car vs not a cartoon,” was the first find of the day. Highlighting the practicality of their electric cars. The word “car” suggests that Tata is offering a legitimate mode of transportation, while the word “cartoon” implies that the MG Comet is not a serious option. It likely plays on notions of being a more serious choice, as opposed to a quirky and playful vehicle like the MG Comet. Aka cartoon in this instance.
      In response, the ongoing banter now positions the Comet as a new, modern, and technologically advanced option with their messaging “Ice age vs new age.” The word “ice age” suggests that Tata’s cars are outdated and old-fashioned, while “new age” implies that MG’s cars are futuristic and cutting-edge. MG is targeting customers who are looking for a stylish and cool car that stands out from the crowd. It positions MG Comet EV as a modern and forward-thinking option. It’s a clever play on words that plays on the idea of a technological revolution from the Ice Age to the New Age.
      Tata vs MG
      Electric Car Advertising 101: Tata and MG Get Competitive
      The messaging “Old school vs new cool” is a further attempt to position MG Comet as a modern and trendy car. The word “old school” could suggest that Tata’s cars are traditional, outdated, and reminiscent of the past, while “new cool” implies that MG’s cars are modern and fashionable. And thereby targeting customers who are looking for a car that reflects their personality and sense of style.
      The notion “taxi or tech” is another dig at Tata, suggesting that their cars are only good for commercial use, while MG’s cars are high-tech and trendy. Probably to click with those who want a car that is not only functional but also represents their lifestyle and values.
      Tata’s Taxi Cars vs. MG’s Sexy EVs: Electric Car Marketing Heats Up
      Finally, “say tata to taxi vs drive something sexy” sounds a bit more like a direct challenge to Tata’s brand image. The word “taxi” suggests that Tata’s cars are taxis / cabs, while “sexy” implies that MG’s cars are sleek, stylish, and desirable.
      These marketing messages are all about positioning respective brands in trying to distinguish themselves, and capture a share of the growing electric car market. If you are in the market for an electric car, take a test drive, weigh your options, and make an informed decision that suits your lifestyle and values. More

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      in Bike

      Bajaj Sales Breakup March 2023 – Pulsar, Platina, CT, Chetak, Dominar

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      Image – MRD VlogsBajaj Chetak electric has accounted for the highest percentage growth in domestic markets in March 2023
      Bajaj Auto Limited has seen outstanding demand in domestic markets for its two wheeler range. Exports on the other hand fell significantly with most models showing off a YoY de-growth. Total sales (domestic + exports) stood at 2,33,827 units in March 2023 down from 2,47,933 units sold in March 2022. It was however, a MoM growth from total sales (domestic + exports) which had stood at 2,18,975 units in Feb 2023.
      Bajaj Auto sales in domestic markets improved by 41.22 percent to 1,45,873 units in March 2023 from 1,03,292 units sold in March 2022. This was volume growth of 42,581 units. It was the Pulsar range that topped sales charts with 1,00,252 units sold in the past month, a 48.88 percent YoY growth from 67,339 units sold in March 2022.
      Bajaj 2W Domestic Sales Breakup March 2023
      The Pulsar range commands a 68.73 percent share. It was the Pulsar 125cc that received the most attention with 60,352 units sold last month, up 52.07 percent from 39,687 units sold in March 2022. Pulsar 200cc (17,156 units) and Pulsar 250cc (9,144 units) posted a YoY growth while Pulsar 150cc saw sales dip to 13,600 units in the past month from 18,044 units sold in March 2022 relating to a 24.63 percent YoY de-growth.
      Sales of the Bajaj Platina also improved by 27.30 percent YoY to 34,311 units from 26,952 units sold in March 2022. Platina currently commands a 23.52 percent share on this list. De-growth was seen in the case of Bajaj CT which dipped 15.93 percent to 4,381 units in March 2023 from 5,211 units sold in March 2022. It was the CT110cc that saw sales dip 52.29 percent to 2,486 units while CT125cc sales stood at 1,895 units.
      Bajaj 2W Sales Breakup March 2023
      Bajaj Chetak electric scooter sales zoomed by 249.30 percent on a YoY basis to 3,514 units in March 2023 from 1,006 units sold in March 2022 relating to a 2,508 unit volume growth. The 2023 Bajaj Chetak is in the making and is said to come in with an increased range which could be around 18 km more than that seen on its current counterpart.
      Bajaj 2W Sales Breakup March 2023
      Sales of Bajaj Avenger (1,952 units) and Dominar (1,463 units) posted YoY growth at 16.19 percent and 32.52 percent respectively in March 2023. Of this, the Avenger 200cc received more demand at 1,572 units over the Avenger 250cc of which only 380 units were sold last month. Dominar, on the other hand, had 820 units of its 500cc model sold in the month while there had been 643 units of the 250cc sold. Bajaj Auto has recently registered three new names – Bajaj Aura, Bajaj Racer and Bajaj Hammer; likely for upcoming new motorcycles / scooters / EVs.
      Bajaj Boxer, Pulsar Top Exports Charts – March 2023
      Bajaj Auto has seen its exports fall by 39.19 percent YoY. Exports stood at 87,954 units in March 2023 down from 1,44,641 units shipped in March 2022. This was volume de-growth of 56,687 units. Bajaj Boxer was most in demand globally with 40,252 units sold in March 2023, down 55.28 percent over 90,016 units sold in March 2022. This was a 49,764 unit volume de-growth with the Boxer commanding a 45.76 percent share on this list. Boxer 110cc had 22,426 units shipped last month while Boxer 150cc saw 11,914 units exported in March 2023 along with 5,912 units of Boxer 125cc.
      Bajaj 2W Exports Breakup March 2023
      The Pulsar range had 18,646 units shipped in the past month, a 17.67 percent YoY de-growth from 22,648 units sold in March 2022. Pulsar 200cc was the most in demand with 13,692 units shipped last month, a growth of 42.36 percent from 9,618 units sold in March 2022. There were also 2,340 units of Pulsar 250cc, 1,657 units of Pulsar 125cc and 957 units of Pulsar 150cc shipped to global markets in March 2023.
      Exports of Bajaj CT improved just marginally by 0.29 percent YoY to 16,416 units with the CT 110 cc commanding a major share of 8,136 units in March 2023. There were also 7,992 units of CT 125cc and 288 units of CY 150cc shipped, both of which saw lower YoY exports.
      Bajaj Discover (8,952 units) and Dominar (2,440 units) each posted YoY de-growth of 15.67 percent and 8.68 percent respectively. Avenger sales improved by 190.41 percent YoY to 636 units in March 2023 from 219 units sold in March 2022. Out of this, there were 444 units of Avenger 250cc sold and 192 units of Avenger 200cc sold last month. Platina exports also fell 70.88 percent to just 612 units in March 2023 from 2,102 units sold in March 2022. It was Platina 110cc that received more attention with 324 units sold in March 2023 along with 288 units of Platina 125cc. More

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      in Electric Cars

      MG Comet EV Review: A Comprehensive Analysis of the New Mini Smart Electric Car

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      MG Comet EV ReviewComet EV by MG: Bold Design, Unconventional Aesthetics, a New Segment in the Indian Automotive Market
      Creation of a new segment in the automotive market is a daunting task. It’s not something that can be achieved easily. Over the past 15 years, EMs have attempted to break into this market with varying degrees of success. Despite their efforts, none of them have been able to make a significant impact. And success has been elusive. Reva kicked up a storm but when the dust settled, there were none to be seen. Add to this the lack of infrastructure and government support in the early days.
      Today, the market poses new challenges. And we’re excited to see that MG has decided to make a serious attempt by introducing Comet to the Indian market. I had a chance to get behind the wheel during the media drive, and could sense the excitement building up within me as I took the Comet through City streets.
      MG Comet EV: The Quirky Electric small car with Smart Features
      The Comet is a unique vehicle that can be categorised as a 3-door mini hatchback, kei-car, micro car, micro EV, or quadricycle-like. In my experience, when I first saw it, I couldn’t help but compare it to the compact cars in Japan, Kei cars. It had a similar vibe, but with a fully modern tech upgrade. In the Indian market, the Comet’s dimensions may remind one of dated cars like Tata Nano and Mahindra e2O. Despite its small size, it boasts seating capacity for 4 adults, which is impressive. The Comet draws power from a 17.3 kWh battery pack and claims to offer a range of 230kms, which works well for daily city commutes.
      Along with its small dimensions, Comet has a highly polarizing design. Some might find it cute, stylish or clutter-breaking, while others may not appreciate its unconventional aesthetics. In my experience, the young are excited by its unique design and expressed their interest in driving one. On the other hand, older folks were genuinely curious. The design may appeal more to Millennials or GenZ customers, while an older audience might ask more questions due to its size. This makes sense as the older gen had fewer car owners, and the only car in the family had to be a family car that was to occupy the garage for years. Times have changed.
      MG Comet EV Prices – bookings open 15th May 2023. Deliveries start soon after.
      In my experience, I found the Comet to be quite visually appealing. Its functional tall boy design and neo-modern design theme stand out. The horizontal light bars at the front and rear are eye-catching and add a unique touch to the car’s overall look. Additionally, the illuminated MG logo at the bonnet is a nice touch that adds to the car’s stylish appearance.
      MG Comet EV: A Micro Car that Seats Four
      MG Comet is a 3-door mini hatchback/car, featuring two wide doors on each side. The car’s neo-modern design is carried over into the interiors, with a white and light grey color scheme that gives the cabin a spacious appearance. The generous glass panels allow ample natural light to enter the cabin, creating an airy and open feel despite the car’s compact size. However, the light colors used in the interior might require regular cleaning and maintenance, especially in polluted and dusty city environments.
      Comet offers a decent seating capacity with front seats spacious enough to accommodate regular-sized adults. However, in my personal experience, I found the seats lacking in comfort and could have benefited from better upholstery. On the positive side, Comet provides steering rake adjustment to tailor to one’s comfort, although there is no reach setting available.
      MG Comet EV Launched
      To access the rear seats, one needs to fold down the front seats and climb in. The co-passenger seat has a one-touch tumble and movement functionality, although it takes around 2-3 inputs. Getting in from the driver’s side is a bit more challenging, though. The back seats can comfortably accommodate two adults for short drives of around 30-40 minutes. However, anything beyond an hour could be a little difficult, as the lack of thigh support might make it uncomfortable for longer journeys. As for the boot space, it is almost non-existent. The rear seats have a 50:50 split and can be folded down to create room for two large suitcases.
      In terms of features, as expected from an MG, Comet comes with a decent list of creature comforts. It boasts a 10-inch all-digital instrument cluster, a 10-inch touchscreen infotainment system (with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility), i-Smart functionality, and much more.
      MG Comet EV Launched
      Some key call-outs would be the unique Apple iPod Shuffle inspired steering mounted controls, which caught my attention and added a touch of quirkiness to the overall design. The voice command feature is a great addition, as it is not only tuned for English but also Hinglish, making it more user-friendly for the Indian market. The manual AC is decently powerful and does the job of keeping the cabin cool in most weather conditions.
      MG Comet EV: The Urban Car That’s Fun to Drive
      Comet is a perfect fit for city commutes, and MG is not shy about calling it one. The electric hatchback is equipped with three drive modes: Eco, Normal, and Sports, with each mode providing a faster acceleration than the previous one. However, even the Eco mode provides enough power for most in-city maneuvers, and switching to Sports mode may not be necessary for overtaking other vehicles. The Comet’s electric motor generates 42 PS of power and 110 Nm of torque, which is impressive for its size and intended use.
      MG Comet EV Review
      The Comet is stable when driven in a straight line, but it can feel a bit shaky when pushed to its limits due to the small 12-inch wheels. It’s best to adopt a cautious driving style and avoid any sudden or aggressive maneuvers. The steering feedback is decent, and the brakes have good bite and stopping power.
      When it comes to the NVH levels, you may find yourself wishing for better insulation, particularly from a well-known brand like MG. The road noise can be considerable, and the whirring of the electric motor is also clearly audible. Moreover, the horn feels as if it’s placed right inside the cabin, which is partly true since the car’s compact design practically leaves no space for a long bonnet.
      MG Comet EV Review
      MG Comet compact car: The Perfect Fit for City Commutes
      MG claims that Comet has a certified range of 230kms. However, as with most range claims, they come with an ideal conditions disclaimer, and we don’t think that the practical range will go beyond 160-180 kms. In our driving experience, we managed a range of around 120 kms, which included considerable idling (stopping to film and shoot with AC on during the not yet peak Delhi summer heat), and generous use of the Sports mode.
      The range itself may not be much of an issue as Comet is being marketed as a regular city EV. However, the lack of fast charging capability is a major drawback. MG is offering a 3.3 kW charger, which can take the battery from 10 to 80 percent in 5 hours, while a full charge takes 7 hours. With public fast charging infrastructure coming up in key cities, the absence of fast charging functionality could be a disadvantage for Comet owners.
      MG Comet EV Review
      The Comet offers dual front airbags, ABS + EBD, ISOFIX mounts, TPMS, and an IP67 rated battery, which are all good safety features. However, we should note that as of now, there are no crash test reports available for the Comet.
      MG Comet EV: The Stylish Micro Car that everyone’s talking about
      There are several positives about the Comet, although there are also some areas where it falls short. Firstly, the indicated range of the car doesn’t seem to vary much when switching between different drive modes. Additionally, the NVH levels could be improved with better insulation. The lack of fast charging capability is questionable, especially considering the current availability of public fast charging infrastructure. Lastly, the 12-inch wheels don’t inspire much confidence in the driver.
      MG Comet EV Review
      Despite the mentioned shortcomings, the Comet is a practical urban car that can be a suitable option as a second vehicle in a household with a larger ICE sedan or SUV. It may be a choice as a first or only car for younger folks who prefer a comfy and practical ride over a 2W.
      In my opinion, the Comet from MG is an excellent option for those who typically drive solo (drives to office daily) or with just one passenger (school run) and have a daily driving route of around 40-50 km. This could take care of a quick round for daily chores too. When I was in the market for a new car, I was specifically looking for something that was affordable and practical, and the Comet seemed to tick all the boxes.
      MG Comet EV Launched
      It’s impressive that the introductory starting price point of approximately 8 lakhs is going to attract many. As someone who prioritises cost-effectiveness, has a preference for electric cars, and doesn’t require a large vehicle, the Comet from MG could be a choice.
      MG Comet has the potential to change the way we view cars in India, emphasising practicality, affordability, and convenience of a smart and small electric car for city driving. As someone who priorities efficiency, and cost-effectiveness, I think the Comet is an excellent choice for anyone who shares these values. More

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      in Bike

      Royal Enfield Classic 350 Bobber Spied – Single Seat, White Tyre Wall

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      Royal Enfield Classic 350 Bobber SpiedRE Classic 350 Bobber will rival the Jawa Bobber and Perak – Launch expected in coming months
      Royal Enfield has an impressive 350cc portfolio based on their new gen J-series platform. We have the Classic 350, Meteor 350 and Hunter 350 motorcycles. There is scope for portfolio expansion as revealed in Royal Enfield’s annual report. At least two more motorcycles will be launched on the J series platform. These are Bullet 350 and Classic 350 Bobber.
      Royal Enfield already offers a Classic 350 with a single seat. But they are also working on a Bobber 350, based on Classic 350 which will get slightly more changes. The first-ever RE Classic 350 Bobber test mule has now been spied on test in Chennai. Thanks to automotive enthusiast Prabhu for sharing these exclusive spy shots. From the image, we can see almost everything that is different from the current Classic 350.
      Royal Enfield Classic 350 Bobber Spied
      Classic 350 is the highest selling RE. It almost touched 25K units sales mark last month. The main draw for this motorcycle it excels in the balancing act. It has a perfect amount of old-world panache, modern tech and riding dynamics. With the Bobber, Royal Enfield is hoping to retain much of it. As such, there are no changes to design and body panels.
      Wheelbase looks the same as the C350. Thus retaining the ride and handling behaviour of Classic 350. New blackened and beefier exhaust, a new taller handlebar, blackened ORVMs, blackened wire-spoke rims, teal-walled tyres and rear tail lights and indicators from Super Meteor 650 are the only changes we can spot.
      Royal Enfield 350cc platform launch plans
      LED headlight from Super Meteor is expected. The recent test mule was seen wearing emission testing equipment with the new exhaust, which looks like a larger unit as compared to current Classic 350. Exhaust tip is much larger in aperture and could unlock a bass-heavy aural experience.
      Royal Enfield Classic 350 Bobber vs Classic 350 Single seat
      The handlebar is tall and reminds of custom Choppers from the West. It enables an upright seating position and a relaxed rider’s triangle. Single seat looks good enough to provide optimum comfort. The 349cc air/oil-cooled engine will generate 20.2 bhp and 27 Nm, coupled with a 5-speed gearbox. A dual-channel ABS could be standard.
      The Bobber space in India to get a new champion?
      We would have liked an extended wheelbase. Because that is what makes a Bobber, a Bobber. Both Jawa Perak and 42 Bobber perfectly encapsulate this with a 1,485 mm wheelbase. If RE Bobber 350 gets the 1,390 mm wheelbase, which is same as seen on Classic 350, it could come off as a regular Classic 350 with an aftermarket exhaust and handlebar.
      Jawa Bobber price is Rs. 2,09,187 (ex-sh). RE Classic 350 Bobber prices are expected to be in a similar range. Launch is expected later this year. Upon launch it will rival Jawa Bobber and Perak, which offers a more performant engine (30.2 bhp and 32.7 Nm), liquid-cooling setup, 6-speed gearbox, fatter rear tyres and that quintessential Bobber look, among others.  More