News

Subterms

    More stories

    • 163 Shares199 Views

      in Motor News

      1995 Lexus SC400 Is Our Bring a Trailer Auction Pick of the Day

      by

      • This 1995 Lexus SC400 has us seriously considering a new daily driver.• Not only does it have a silken 4.0-liter V-8 and a comfortable ride, the graceful styling hasn’t aged a day in the nearly 30 years since it rolled off the lot. • This well-cared-for example has just under 120,000 miles, with the no-reserve auction over on Bring a Trailer going until Thursday, January 26. This 1995 Lexus SC400 up for auction on Bring a Trailer has us pondering what it takes for a work to be classified as fine art. Clearly the Mona Lisa makes the cut, and no one who has seen Starry Night would argue it doesn’t make the cut—but what about a V-8 sports coupe? Surely the elegant lines of the SC400, because the car has utility? Even as the performance lags behind modern cars, the superb styling of the SC400 looks as good today as when it launched in 1992. We’re no art critics here, but we do have strong opinions on automobile styling— and this 1995 SC400 has us considering our next daily driver. More on the SC400The coupe for sale on BaT right now comes in a boring beige option, but even that isn’t enough to darken our thoughts on this car. It spent most of its life in Virginia, and was sold for $7400 on Bring a Trailer to the current owner in June, 2022. The 4.0-liter 1UZ-FE V8 was rated at 250 horsepower and 260 lb-ft of torque when new. The car has recorded just under 120,000 miles, and oil change was performed in preparation for the sale.Bring a TrailerBring a TrailerIt isn’t just a looker; it’s fun to drive, and had impressive performance for its time. It’s all in the name “sports coupe.” Nearly all new cars today can put up better figures, but the 6.7-second launch to 60 mph and 145-mph top speed are more than adequate performance for a daily driver. We recorded 0.86 g of lateral grip when we first tested the SC in 1991. The modern Hankook Ventus V2 tires, mounted in April 2022 would likely improve on the already impressive grip. Bring a TrailerIn terms of amenities, the cabin has heated and power-adjustable front seats upholstered in beige leather, while bird’s-eye maple wood trim accents the dashboard and door panels. Automatic climate control, cruise control, power accessories, and a trunk-mounted Nakamichi premium audio system with a 12-disc CD changer round out the equipment. The listing refers to paint blemishes, which can be seen up close. They may ruin this car’s shot at any future concours, but they do little to detract from its overall beauty. 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. More

    • 150 Shares99 Views

      in Bike

      New Yamaha 150cc Classic Motorcycle Launch Price 13.4k Yuan (Rs 1.6 L)

      by

      Currently available only in China, Yamaha GT150 Fazer could be introduced in other markets at a later dateNew Yamaha 150cc ClassicIn the world of motorcycles, the classic retro look is making a resurgence. It is essentially a timeless design that appeals to folks across age groups. With that in mind, Yamaha has launched GT150 Fazer in China.Retail price starts at 13,390 yuan, which is approximately Rs 1.60 lakh. Yamaha GT150 Fazer borrows a significant percentage of its hardware and equipment from other 150cc bikes like FZ15, Fazer 150 and Crosser 150.Yamaha 150cc Classic MotorcycleYamaha GT150 Fazer has a graceful design, something that is pleasing to the eyes. The bike has friendly vibes and is available in colour options of white, dark grey, light grey and blue. Across all colour variants, much of the bike has a blacked-out lower section. It includes the fenders, alloy wheels, exhaust, engine and front and rear suspension.Some of the signature retro bits include round headlamp, rear view mirrors and turn signals. Other highlights include all-LED lights, 12V DC charging socket, fork gaiters, teardrop-shaped fuel tank, tan leather seat in quilted pattern and tracker style side panels. The bike has a round full digital instrument panel that displays a range of information.New Yamaha 150cc ClassicFor everyday commutes, Yamaha GT150 Fazer ticks all the right boxes. It has a slender profile, which will be useful in negotiating heavy traffic. Seat height is 800 mm, which should ensure easy handling and manoeuvrability. The bike has a long seat and seems adequate for two adults. However, a grab rail is missing. It may be offered as an accessory.Users can expect optimal comfort with centrally placed footpegs and pulled-back, raised handlebar. While the bike is primarily for city commutes, it seems capable of handling some mild off-roads as well. Features like handlebar brace and dual-purpose block pattern tyres will be useful in off-road environments.Yamaha GT150 Fazer performanceEngine used onboard Yamaha GT150 Fazer is a 149cc unit that has the same bore and stroke as that of FZ15, Fazer 150 and Crosser 150. The air cooled, 2 valve, SOHC motor generates 12.3 hp of max power at 7,500 rpm and 12.4 Nm of peak torque at 6,000 rpm. It is mated to a 5-speed gearbox.New Yamaha 150cc ClassicSuspension duties onboard New Yamaha 150cc Classic are performed by telescopic front forks and dual rear suspension. The bike has 18-inch wheels at both ends, shod with 90/90 front and 100/80 rear tyres. Braking duties are performed by disc brakes at both ends. The bike has a 1,330 mm wheelbase and weighs 126 kg. It has a 12.5 litre fuel tank.With growing popularity of retro bikes in India, Yamaha GT150 Fazer seems like a suitable candidate to be introduced here. However, it is not certain if and when GT150 Fazer will be launched in India. Yamaha India offers retro-styled FZ-X, although it doesn’t look as elegant as GT150 Fazer. Yamaha already has the 150cc platform in India, so launching GT150 Fazer here shouldn’t be much of an issue. More

    • 138 Shares169 Views

      in Bike

      350cc Motorcycle Sales Dec 2022 – Classic, Hunter, Jawa, Yezdi, CB350

      by

      Royal Enfield marches on as market leader despite YoY and MoM decline in in 350 cc segment December sales, Hunter bucks trendRoyal Enfield New Gen 350cc ClassicIn December 2022, 57,460 units of 350cc motorcycles were sold in India. This marked a 3.66 percent decrease from the previous year’s sales of 59,646 units. Volume loss stood at 2,186 units. Classic 350 was the top seller with 20,682 units sold, accounting for 35.99 percent of total sales. However, this was a significant drop of 40.44 percent YoY. Down from 34,723 units, volume loss was high at 14k units.Classic 350 has been a popular choice among Royal Enfield enthusiasts for years. Despite YoY decline in sales it still holds the highest market share among all of RE’s 350cc motorcycles. This can be attributed to its retro design and timeless appeal.350cc Motorcycle Sales Dec 2022Hunter 350 continued to write its story of a strong debut with 17,261 units sold, accounting for 30.04 percent of total sales. Since launch, it’s proven to be a strong seller for the company. Bullet 350, with its iconic design and reliable performance, continues to be a popular choice among buyers, with sales improving from 8,061 units to 8,816 units.However, the Meteor 350 has seen a decline in sales, falling from almost 11k units to 6,298 units, which may be attributed to increased competition from the Hunter 350. RE Electra 350, and Honda CB 350 models have also seen a 25.22 percent and 25.07 percent decline in sales respectively. Sales of the Electra 350 fell from 4,521 units to 3,381 units. Honda CB 350 sales fell from 1,364 units to about 1k units.350cc Motorcycle Sales Dec 2022In comparison, 350cc models saw a 10.77 percent decrease in MoM sales, down from 64,397 units. Classic 350 saw a 22.55 percent decrease in MoM sales, down from 26,702 units sold. Hunter 350 saw a 10.73 percent increase in MoM sales, up from 15,588 units. Bullet 350 saw a 7.37 percent increase in MoM sales, up from 8,211 units.YoY and MoM sales declineMeteor 350 saw a 18.14 percent decrease in MoM sales, down 7,694 units. Electra 350 saw a 18.92 percent decrease in sales MoM with 3,381 units sold. RE Electra 350, and Honda CB 350 saw a MoM decline of 18.92 percent and 49.70 percent.When comparing December 2022 sales data to the previous month, decline in sales is reported at almost 7k units. Down from 64,397 units MoM. However, it’s worth noting that Hunter 350 currently resides in a predominantly green zone. This suggests that the new model may have helped boost overall segment sales, as well as Royal Enfield’s sales.It’s worth noting that Jawa Yezdi sold (retail) 2,681 units in December 2022, marking 7.93 percent YoY increase. YoY sales were up from 2.5k units. However, it saw a 27.01 percent decrease in MoM, down from 3,673 units. In comparison to Jawa Yezdi, a rival brand in the mid-segment market, Royal Enfield maintains its dominance in the market. The same holds true in reference to Honda’s 350cc product portfolio. However, with YoY and MoM decline across most models in December 2022, it’s clear that competition needs to be spruced up despite Royal Enfield’s overarching segment lead. More

    • 138 Shares199 Views

      in Electric Cars

      Citroen C3 Electric Review, Test Drive Report – Your Next EV?

      by

      Ahead of launch next month, we got a chance to test drive the new Citroen C3 electric – Here is why we think eC3 has the potential to make Citroen a mass market brand in IndiaCitroen C3 Electric ReviewLast Year in Goa when we were attending Citroen C3’s Media Drive, most journalists had questions about the lack of an Automatic Gearbox option on the C3. Stellantis’ Senior Management had confirmed that they intend to bring in an automatic at a later date.While most of us drew the conclusion that Citroen will bring in an AMT or an AT on the C3, not many of us would have expected that the first automatic C3 in India would actually be on C3’s electric version. Within 6 months of introduction of C3 in Indian market, Citroen has now unveiled the eC3, basically, the electric version of C3. We were invited for a short test-track drive of the eC3, and here are our first impressions of the electric hatchback.C3 EV Exteriors – Are they any Different?Aesthetically, the eC3 looks almost identical to the C3. Citroen’s team informed that they have used the same body shell of the ICE powered C3 on eC3, as it helps with costs (economies of scale). So, please don’t get surprised when you find a fuel lid at the rear left of the car. Unlike most conventional EVs, it doesn’t even get a closed front grille, so even that differentiating factor can be removed.Some of the key changes on its design include the ‘e’ badges on front doors, a charging port on front right fender and lack of a tail-pipe. Citroen also has included some new color options on the eC3, however, in the plethora of color combinations on offer, it wouldn’t be justifiable for the larger masses to remember the differentiation. Obviously, the easiest differentiator on the road, will be the green number plates which the eC3s will carry.Citroen C3 Electric ReviewOur opinion on C3’s/eC3’s design hasn’t changed. It is quirky yet it still manages to avoid being classified as polarizing, and over the period of time, grows over you.Citroen C3 Electric Review – DashboardWhat’s on the Inside?Once you step inside, you get a very familiar cabin (just that of the C3). However, the gear lever is now gone and there is a nice and elegant drive mode selector. Added benefit – more space in the already roomy cabin.Citroen has turned a little kinder and has added some additional features compared to the C3 – for example, now the cabin gets manual day-night interior rear view mirror. The battery pack is placed under the seats, which has helped the boot to carry a space of 315 litres. Its closest competitor, the Tiago EV offers a space of 240 litres in its boot.Citroen C3 Electric Review – SeatingWhat powers it?In terms of specs, the eC3 gets a 29.2 kWh battery pack which has a max power output of 57 PS and 143 Nm of peak torque. ARAI certified mileage happens to be 320 kms, however, we don’t think that the real-world range will go beyond 250kms, which is very decent for a car in this category. There is also an Eco mode on offer, which as the name suggests – limits the acceleration and helps with a longer range cover.The naturally cooled battery pack can be charged from 10% to 80% in just 57 minutes via fast charger. Interesting bit here is not the speed of charge, but Citroen’s claim that you can fast charge your car, every time, and it won’t impact the battery’s life in a negative way. A home charging mechanism via a 15 AMP plug point can charge the car from 10% to 100% in around 10.5 hours.Citroen C3 Electric Review – Battery ChargingHow is it to Drive?Once you are behind the wheel, and you push the accelerator hard, expect the car to give you electrifying acceleration, you will realize that you are in the wrong car. For that, it would be more sensible to either get the C3 with a Turbo motor, or invest in an EV which costs twice as much as the eC3.The eC3 is an extremely practical car which has the potential to become your daily in-city ride. The ride quality of C3 is something which we had praised earlier, and with the eC3, it further gets better. A lower centre of mass (thanks to the floor-stacked battery pack), has enhanced eC3’s ride quality.Citroen C3 Electric Review – Test DriveSteering feedback is reasonable, brakes do their job well and body roll has reduced (compared to C3). Acceleration is decent, you can do a 0-60 kmph in 6.8 seconds and the top-speed is limited to 107 kmph. All of it makes the eC3 a great city ride. However, we must confess that we could experience the eC3 only on a controlled test track. We are yet to experience how it fares in real-world conditions, along with road’s undulations and city’s stop & go traffic.VerdictCitroen has relatively been one of the late entrants in the Indian passenger car market. Its portfolio currently consists of its flagship – C5 Aircross and C3 – whose sales are slowly catching up. However, at the moment, Citroen’s market share is still low and it clearly has the intent to improve it in coming months. Hence, it plans to have an early mover advantage in the mass-market EV space, which at the moment is dominated by Tata Motors. With eC3, Citroen probably plans to pull off what the 800 did for Maruti Suzuki or first gen Santro did for Hyundai.Citroen C3 Electric Review – Boot SpaceC3 Electric has the potential to establish Citroen as a mass market car maker in India. With the eC3, Citroen almost has all the right ingredients, a fresh design, massive space on the inside, a decent set of creature comfort features, promise of a reliable post-purchase experience and segment leading comfort and ride quality. The only catalyst which it now requires for the sales to pick-up is right pricing. Aggressive launch prices might put on a little pressure on their margins, but it might be prudent for Citroen to take the bet and ride on the EV wave in India’s Passenger Car market. More

    • 150 Shares179 Views

      in Bike

      TVS iQube Electric Scooter Sales Cross 59k In 2022 – Record High

      by

      Since the launch of updated iQube in May 2022, TVS has been registering huge sales for their electric scooterTVS iQube Electric ScooterTVS iQube has seen significant growth in electric two-wheeler sales in India. Government’s push for electric mobility and rising consumer awareness has contributed to growth. To spurt market growth, TVS is innovating in the field of top-of-the-line on-road range for e2Ws. Forecasts for the Indian electric two-wheeler market are positive, with experts predicting continued growth in the coming years.TVS iQube is well-positioned to capitalize on this trend. The milestone of over 59,000 new customers in 2022, is a testament to the company’s commitment to providing customers with what they need. As the market for electric scooters in India continues to grow, TVS iQube is poised to play a significant role in shaping the manufacturer’s future in the electric 2W business. Currently, the iQube range is available in 106 Indian cities.TVS iQube Electric Scooter Sales 2022TVS iQube electric scooters celebrated a major milestone with over 59,000 new customers in 2022. Of these, over 52,000 owners are of the updated TVS iQube, which was launched in May 2022. For TVS iQube, the year started well and ended on a peak.In January, sales stood at 1,529 units, an increase of 624.64 percent from the previous year. February 2022 saw even greater success with 2,238 units sold, a staggering increase of 1002.46 percent from the 203 units sold in February 2021. March 2022 saw 1,799 units sold, a 406.76 percent increase from 355 units sold in March 2021. This resulted in a total of 5,566 units sold in Q1 2022, an increase of 623.80 percent from the 769 units sold in Q1 2021.  TVS iQube Electric Scooter Yearly Sales – 2022 vs 2021Additionally, in April 2022, TVS iQube recorded 1,420 units sold, a 362.54 percent increase from 307 units sold in April 2021. Furthermore, in May 2022, 2,637 units were sold, with no sales recorded in May 2021. June 2022 recorded 4,668 units sold, a 630.52 percent increase from 639 units sold in June 2021. This resulted in a total of 8,725 units sold in Q2 2022, an increase of 822.30 percent from the 946 units sold in Q2 2021. Overall, the first half of the year, H1 2022, ended at 14,291 units sold, an increase of 733.29 percent from the 1,715 units sold in H1 2021.Riding into the future: TVS iQube hits 50,000 sales since May 2022July 2022 recorded 6,304 units sold at 1067.41 percent increase from the 540 units sold in July 2021. August 2022 saw 4,418 units sold at 580.74 percent increase from the 649 units sold in August 2021. September 2022 recorded 4,923 units sold, up from the 766 units YoY. Total Q3 sales stood at 15,645 units at 700.26 percent increase, up from 1,955 units sold in Q3 2021. In October 2022, 8,103 units were sold, up from 395 units sold in October 2021. November 2022 recorded 10,056 units sold, up from 699 units YoY. December 2022 saw 11,071 units sold, an 813.45 percent increase from the 1,212 units sold in December 2021. Q4 2022 ended on a high of 29,230 units, a visible improvement from 2,306 units sold in Q4 2021.The second half of the year, H2 2022, saw 44,875 units sold, up from 4,261 units sold in H2 2021.Overall, TVS iQube recorded a total of 59,166 units sold in 2022. At 890.06 percent increase, sales were up from 5,976 units sold in 2021. TVS iQube’s sales growth has been particularly impressive in H2, with a 953.16% increase in sales compared to H2 2021. This meteoric growth in sales in the latter half of the year could potentially indicate a positive market prediction for the brand. The highest monthly sales was recorded in December 2022. It is worth noting that TVS iQube has seen consistent growth in sales across all quarters, Q1, Q2, Q3 and Q4. And significantly so.TVS iQube Electric Scooter Owners Meet To Celebrate Highest Sales RecordCommitment to on-road rangeAvailable in three variations, iQube series boasts best-in-class features and extended range. iQube and iQube S models feature a 3.4 kWh battery designed by TVS Motor, providing a practical 100 km range per charge. Top-of-the-line iQube ST variant sets itself apart with its powerful 5.1 kWh battery pack, designed by TVS Motor. This allows for an impressive 140 km on-road range per charge. This state-of-the-art battery technology allows for longer rides with minimal interruptions for charging.In addition to extended range, the iQube series also boasts a variety of advanced features. They enhance overall riding experience. The 7-inch TFT display provides essential information such as battery level, speed, and odometer readings. HMI controls allow for easy navigation of the scooter’s various functions. This adds to rider convenience. Reverse parking too is an added convenience feature that makes manoeuvring in tight spaces effortless.  More

    • 150 Shares109 Views

      in Motor News

      Nissan Z Could Be Getting a Nose Job, at Least In Japan

      by

      The Nissan Z could be getting a nose job, at least the Japanese version. The automaker first teased a new split-grille design on a custom Fairlady Z prototype that was shown at the 2022 Tokyo auto salon, and a report yesterday by Japanese Nostalgic Car claims the alternate front-end treatment is set to become a dealer-installed option in Japan sometime in the middle of this year.NissanNissanDepending on your opinion of the Z’s regular nose, this could be great news. At the very least, we think it gives the Z’s face more defined features compared with the current car’s gaping front orifice. However, it might not matter what we Americans think, as the split-grille option could be reserved for the Japan market. When asked to confirm the report that the alternative grille would enter production in Japan, a spokesperson from Nissan’s North American team said the company has yet to announce anything. Technically, that leaves the door open for the U.S. version of the Z to receive a new nose, but we’ll just have to wait and see.Brian Williams|Car and DriverFor Americans who aren’t satisfied with the Z’s standard grille—or those who find its performance lacking—all hope isn’t lost. Our spy photos of a track-focused Nismo prototype not only appear to promise a sharper-handling model, but also one with some cosmetic surgery up front.Nissan Z: Tested and ComparedThis 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. More

    • 138 Shares189 Views

      in Motor News

      GM Pondering a Two-Door Compact Truck EV to Rival the Maverick

      by

      General Motors has designed a two-door, electric, compact pickup truck, as reported by Automotive News.The truck would compete with the Ford Maverick and would slot in beneath the Chevy Silverado EV, pictured above.The EV truck would start under $30,000, but there are no concrete plans for production as GM is still evaluating the feasibility of the new model.Both full-size and mid-size pickups have swelled in size in recent years, and Ford found an opening in the truck market when it introduced the truly compact Maverick in 2022. The company sold all 74,000 units it could build last year and already sold out of the 2023 model year. It appears that crosstown rival General Motors has taken notice, with Automotive News reporting that the automaker has created preliminary designs for a compact, two-door truck.AN says it saw images of the pickup at a GM design studio in Warren, Michigan on Wednesday. The proposed truck would be even smaller than the Maverick and the Hyundai Santa Cruz, which both come only with four doors. The truck would also be electric, with a bed measuring between 4.0 and 4.5 feet long. Pricing would start under $30,000, and although no brand or model name is yet associated with the truck, it’s hard to imagine it being anything but a Chevrolet.More EV Trucks from GMGeneral Motors is currently researching what customers might want in a small truck. AN reports that Michael Pevovar, director of Chevrolet affordable EV and crossover design, said, “We’re creating these to get a reaction and then to try to modify it or move on.” Affordability is the focus of the project, and Pevovar acknowledged that the two-door body style might be too small for the four-door-dominated U.S. market. No production timeline was mentioned, but if GM receives positive feedback, we expect the electric compact truck to arrive before the end of the decade. 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. More

    • 150 Shares169 Views

      in Bike

      Simple One Electric Scooter New Factory – First Photos From Production Line

      by

      With figures like 72 Nm torque, 300+ km range from a single charge and up to 6.4 kWh battery, Simple Energy EV has a lot of potentialSimple One Electric Scooter New FactoryIn the contest of EVs with longest range, Simple One electric scooter is set to go the farthest. As of now, it is Ola Electric which claims the highest range. Other rivals in the premium electric scooter segment include Ather, TVS and Bajaj.Simple Energy had announced their launch plans on the same date as Ola Electric, 15th Aug 2021. But unlike Ola, Simple is yet to start delivery. As per latest update, Simple EV has set up its first state-of-the-art facility spread across 2 lakh sq-ft at Shoolagiri, Tamil Nadu. Named Simple Vision 1.0, it is now inaugurated and is set to produce 1 million units annually. This facility will be used to kickstart the final production of its much awaited Simple One electric scooter.Simple One Electric ScooterThe Indian e-scooter startup has already launched its maiden vehicle Simple One at Rs. 1.09 lakh for one fixed battery and one removable battery totaling 4.8 kWh. Other one is Rs. 1.45 lakh for one fixed battery and two removable batteries totaling 6.4 kWh. The company claims that over 30,000 units have been reserved, but deliveries haven’t yet commenced.The new factory inaugurated yesterday today, is set to begin production soon. It has a patented in-house motor manufacturing line and a battery manufacturing line. There are other facilities inside, including a best-in-class general assembly line, customer acceptance line, and cell storage.Simple One Electric Scooter New FactoryFounder & CEO of Simple Energy, Suhas Rajkumar, stated that in four years of the company’s journey, they are now just one step away from starting production and deliveries. Simple Vision 1.0 production plant is a stepping stone for Simple Energy for future expansions. With an experienced R&D team and well-equipped manufacturing facility, Simple One electric scooter production and deliveries will commence soon.Simple One SpecsOver 300 km of range is promised with a triple battery setup, one fixed and two removable. While it is just 236 km with one removable and one fixed battery. In total, triple battery setup will accommodate 6.4 kWh of battery capacity and the dual battery setup will accommodate 4.8 kWh worth of battery capacity.The electric motor on Simple One makes 8.5 kW of peak power and 4.5 kW of continuous power while torque figures stand at 72 Nm, which is the highest among other premium electric scooters. Overall, Simple One looks striking and edgy, unlike Ola scooters. That said, Ola has already made its move into Rs. 80K segment where conventional ICE scooters party.Can Simple Energy EV match Ola and Ather in terms of volumes, production and hype? Also, now that mainstream manufacturers like Hero MotoCorp, TVS and Bajaj have EVs of their own and Honda and Yamaha soon to join, Simple Energy EV has a lot of work on their hands. More