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    Prepare to Say Goodbye to the McLaren 720S

    McLaren is ending production of the 720S supercar after a roughly five-year run, with a yet-to-be-named replacement already sold out well into 2024.The 720S was unveiled at the 2017 Geneva Auto Show, and went into production for the 2018 model year, replacing the 650S.A McLaren spokesperson confirmed to Car and Driver that production for the 2023 model year officially ended in December 2022.McLaren has sounded the death knell for its iconic and beloved 720S supercar. Production of 2023 model-year vehicles officially ended in December 2022, a spokesperson for the company confirmed to Car and Driver. No official replacement has been announced, but speaking with Automotive News, Nicolas Brown, McLaren’s president of the Americas region, told the outlet, “… Customers, of course, they see that, ‘OK, well, you can’t order a 720 anymore.’ They realize that production is ending. So putting two and two together, something is coming.”Despite no official replacement being revealed, or even announced, Brown told AN that the company has taken deposits on the new car. In fact, he confirmed that the replacement vehicle is sold out “through deep into 2024.”More on McLarenThe 720S was first unveiled at the 2017 Geneva Auto Show as a replacement for the 650S supercar. The twin-turbocharged V-8 powering the wheels is mounted behind the passenger compartment and makes 710 horsepower. Unleashing that power propels the 720S to 60 mph in well under three seconds, and on to 120 mph in less than seven seconds.We lapped a 2018 720S at our annual Lightning Lap testing, where we deemed it “Wonderfully fun and scary fast.” Not only did it clock a 2:39.7 around the VIR Grand Course, joining an elite group of cars under 2:40; but it also recorded a mind-warping speed of 171.7 mph on the front straight. We’re always sad to see cars we love die off, especially with a car as fast and fun to drive as the 720S. The brand’s newest car, the Artura, is quicker to 60 mph, but swaps the 4.0-liter V-8 for a hybrid V-6 paired to an electric motor. It’s a cheaper entry, sure, but it’s heavier and less powerful than the 720S. And it loses the sensory experience granted by the 720S. We’ll surely miss the 720S as it exits stage left after 2023. 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.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

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    2023 Jeep Cherokee Lineup Reduced as It Prepares to End Production

    The 2023 Jeep Cherokee lineup includes only two models: Altitude Lux and Trailhawk.The 180-hp 2.4-liter inline-four is the base engine, and the 270-hp 2.0-liter turbo-four is optional.Jeep says it’s preparing to end production of the current-generation Cherokee next month.Jeep has greatly reduced the Cherokee’s lineup for what appears to be the current generation’s final model year. The 2023 Cherokee is now available in either Altitude Lux and Trailhawk trim levels, and the only engine choices are now the naturally aspirated 180-hp 2.4-liter inline-four and a 270-hp turbocharged 2.0-liter inline-four; the previous 3.2-liter V-6 engine has been dropped.Pricing starts at $39,290 for the Altitude Lux and $42,890 for the Trailhawk, and both come standard with four-wheel drive. That’s a big jump from the 2022 model’s base price, which started at $31,590 for the front-wheel-drive Altitude; even the 2022 Altitude 4×4, though, was $6200 less than this year’s Altitude Lux model, which does get extra equipment including leather seats, a heated steering wheel, and remote start. The Trailhawk, which previously had the 3.2-liter V-6 engine, gets a $3750 price bump over last year.More on the CherokeeWe previously reported that the Belvedere, Illinois, plant that builds the compact SUV would be idled after February 2023. Jeep told us then that the Cherokees being built now are 2023 models. Reports that Cherokee production could move to Mexico after the Illinois plant is idled suggest that the Cherokee’s replacement might be coming soon. The current KL generation of the Cherokee has been on sale since the 2014 model year and is overdue for a replacement. 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.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

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    2023 Lexus RC Finally Gets an Infotainment Update, New Color

    Lexus is bestowing some updates upon the RC and RC F coupe models for 2023.A new touchscreen sits atop the dash, replacing the old sunken screen that was controlled only by a touchpad.There’s also a new Special Appearance package available for F Sport models.Lexus isn’t quite ready to replace the aging RC coupe with a redesigned model, but it is making some updates to both the standard RC and performance RC F models for the 2023 model year. The biggest change is inside, where the dashboard is revised to accommodate a new touchscreen. There are also new colors, newly available appearance packages, and minor performance tweaks.The standard RC, which is available in RC300 and RC350 configurations, adds an F Sport Special Appearance package with a two-tone color scheme that pairs a gray body with a black roof and hood and 19-inch Enkei wheels. This same gray exterior color, called Incognito, is also newly available on the RC F Track Edition. Lexus also says that the Track Edition benefits from new Hitachi shocks.More on the RCWe appreciate the updates to the RC’s infotainment system, as the fact that the display moves forward and can now be controlled as a touchscreen means you won’t have to rely as much on the fussy touchpad controller on the console. An 8.0-inch screen is standard, and a 10.3-inch screen is optional.Pricing stars at $45,470 for the rear-wheel-drive RC300 with its turbocharged 2.0-liter inline-four engine. The RC350, which has a 3.5-liter V-6, costs $53,020 with the optional F Sport package. To get the RC F’s sonorous 5.0-liter V-8 engine, you’ll need $67,845.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.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

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    2023 Tata Sierra Electric SUV Debuts As Pre-Production Concept

    Tata Motors is developing Sierra electric SUV with AWD capabilities which will be underpinned by the Sigma platform2023 Tata Sierra Electric SUVBy unveiling two future electric vehicle (EV) concepts last year, Tata Motors has made its intentions very clear. The homegrown automobile giant has put its foot down on the throttle and accelerated towards a revolutionary change. The company is already the largest EV manufacturer in the passenger vehicle market in India.More importantly, the carmaker intends to occupy the top spot in future as well and hence is working round the clock to ensure that it offers a wide range of products in the EV space. One of the most awaited EVs from Tata Motors is Sierra which will bring a very popular car moniker back into the Indian market. Today, at the 2023 Auto Expo, Tata Motors has revealed a pre-production concept of the Sierra Electric SUV, along with Harrier EV.2023 Tata Sierra Electric SUVBack in the 1990s, Sierra was one of the most reliable SUVs in the country with 4×4 capabilities. Despite being long gone, the brand name is still remembered by fans. Tata Motors had unveiled a concept model of Sierra back at the last edition of Auto Expo in 2020. In 2020, the company gave its nod to bringing back the Sierra nameplate as a pure EV offering. And now, in 2023, we get to see an updated avatar of the same.Shailesh Chandra, Managing Director, Tata Motors Passenger Vehicles Ltd., and Tata Passenger Electric Mobility Ltd., had revealed that the company intends to add an electric SUV with all-wheel-drive capabilities to its lineup. The brand has essentially ruled out the possibility of a 4×4 drivetrain in an ICE car, hence, the next EV offering could be an SUV fulfilling this criterion.2023 Tata Sierra Electric SUVTo Be Based On Sigma EV PlatformLast year, Tata Motors unveiled its very ambitious Curvv Concept that is based on the Gen 2 platform. This architecture can host a wide range of powertrains including battery and IC engine-powered setup along with multiple drivetrain options. Officially named Sigma, this architecture is based on the X4 or ALFA platform of Altroz and Punch.It has been heavily re-engineered around a battery pack to avoid any compromises and to optimise packaging. In order to do so, the ALFA platform needs to undergo several modifications including deletion of the transmission tunnel, updates to the fuel tank area and side members being pushed to the sides to clear up space.Sierra EV: Expected LaunchThese updates are also likely to make the Sigma platform lighter, more energy efficient and more spacious than ICE platform-based EVs like Nexon EV and Tigor EV. As far as Sierra EV is concerned, the electric SUV is currently under development and it won’t likely make its debut in production form until 2025. It is part of Tata’s plans of developing as many as six new EVs in the next few years.2023 Tata Sierra Electric SUVUnlike the 2020 concept of Sierra, which had 3 doors, the production-spec Sierra EV will feature a conventional five-door layout. 2023 Sierra seen here, features 5 door layout. More electric SUVs are expected to roll out of Tata’s assembly line in future underpinned by both Gen 2 and Gen 3 platforms. More

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    Tata Harrier Electric SUV Debuts At 2023 Auto Expo – Gets AWD

    With new rivals expected on the scene in 2023 and beyond, Tata Motors is busy ramping up its EV portfolioTata Harrier Electric SUVWhile Tata Motors currently enjoys market share of more than 80% in EV segment, competition is expected to increase significantly in coming years. To ensure it continues to hold strong, Tata is lining up several new EVs. These will be showcased at 2023 Auto Expo.Tata upcoming EVs that have high potential to emerge as bestsellers include Harrier Electric and Safari Electric. Of the two, at the Auto Expo 2023, Tata Motors has showcased Harrier EV as well as Sierra EV. Other Tata EVs that are showcased at Auto Expo include Curvv electric concept and Avinya born-electric car.Tata Harrier Electric SUVTata Harrier electric will be targeting a range of around 400-450 km. Battery capacity could be around 60 kWh whereas power and torque output is expected to be close to 200 PS and 400 Nm. 0 to 100 kmph could be achievable in under 10 seconds. The focus will be on improving performance to make it better than the existing ICE-based Harrier and Safari.Some of the tech features could be borrowed from Nexon EV, for example, multi-mode regen. Based on their driving style and traffic conditions, users can choose from four pre-set levels of regenerative braking. Regen is one of the key equipment that helps boost range. The battery pack and motor will be IP67 rated and powered by state-of-the-art Ziptron technology.Tata Harrier Electric SUVMulti-drive modes are likely to be available with Harrier electric. Users will be able to choose if they want to extend range or have an exhilarating, full power ride. Drive mode options could be similar to Nexon EV that has Eco, City and Sport modes. Another feature that is expected is an electronic parking brake. Harrier Electric comes in AWD system.Charging options could be similar to Nexon EV, albeit in higher capacity. There will be the standard home charger that could be connected to any 15A socket, a fast charger option and DC fast charging stations. Battery and motor warranty could be similar to Tata Nexon EV that offers 8 years / 1.60 lakh km, whichever is earlier.Harrier electric featuresWhile the core silhouette will be largely the same as current model, electric version of Harrier gets some unique styling bits. It is seen in all white colour. In the front is a LED strip with an illuminated Tata Motors logo. Changes introduced are to achieve improved aerodynamics. It will help boost range and also achieve a sensuous profile for the SUV. Some exclusive colour options are likely to be introduced for Harrier electric upon launch.Tata Harrier Electric SUVInside, much of the equipment list will be largely the same as available with current models. Some key features include panoramic sunroof, wireless Android Auto and Apple CarPlay, ventilated driver and co-driver seats, premium speaker system, air purifier and wireless charger. Connected car tech iRA will be available as well. Harrier electric SUV could get a larger touchscreen infotainment system, in line with industry trends. More

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    New Electric Scooters With Self Balance Tech – 2023 Auto Expo

    Liger Mobility has unveiled Liger X and Liger X+ self-balancing e-scooters at the 2023 Auto ExpoLiger Electric Scooter at 2023 Auto ExpoMumbai-based technology start-up Liger Mobility has two electric scooters on display at the 2023 Auto Expo that are the world’s first self-balancing scooters. Liger Mobility has been founded by Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) and Indian School of Business (ISB) alumni. It may be recalled that the auto balancing scooter concept had been showcased by the company in 2019 and has now become a reality.Called the Liger X and Liger X+, these world’s first self-balancing electric scooters have been patented and offer enhanced safety for the rider along with better comforts setting them apart from any other scooter in the world. Industry-first Auto-Balancing is a self-explanatory term used as these scooters balance automatically at low speeds or when the scooter is stationary. It also offers stability at higher speeds when the auto balancing function goes into standby mode.Liger Electric Scooters – Self Balance TechLiger X and X+ are being offered in an array of colour options among which are Grey, Polar White, Blue, Titanium and Red. They receive a strong body structure with an innovative new design and LED lighting.The two scooters are 4G and GPS enabled that come in with an App that allows the rider to view live location, ride history, battery charge and temperature while the rider also receives online alerts of tow, accident and service reminders, etc. These new electric scooters sport features such as turn by turn navigation while the rider can view calls and messages on the TFT display unit.[embedded content][embedded content]Power is via a lithium cooled, lithium ion battery pack that is best suited for Indian weather conditions. The two variants command a top speed of 65 km/h with Liger X offering a 60 km range which goes up to 100 kms on the Liger X+.The battery is detachable on the Liger X with charge to an optimum in under 3 hours. Liger X+ gets a non-detachable battery with charging facility in 4.5 hours. The company also offers a fast charging battery pack for both models at an extra cost.Features DetailedLiger X and Liger X+ get Feet on Footboard for stress free ride quality even in heavy traffic conditions. Reverse Ride is possible like a car without any back pedaling while Learner Mode with Learn2Ride with AutoBalancing allows new riders to learn the bike in a controlled and safe manner.LigerX and Liger X+ have been listed on the company website. They will be open for bookings from later this year with deliveries to commence from the end of 2023. Liger X is likely to be retailed at around Rs 90,000 (post FAME subsidies) while Liger X+ would be priced somewhat higher. More

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    Greaves Cotton Electric Rickshaw, Ampere eScooters – 2023 Auto Expo

    Greaves Cotton unveiled Made in India products in two-wheelers and three-wheelers segments which also including e2w Ampere PrimusFuture Greaves Cotton Electric Rickshaw – 2023 Auto ExpoGreaves Cotton, a well-known name in terms of engineering proficiency synonymous with the manufacture of powertrains for last-mile passenger and cargo mobility has a hefty lineup of electric two and three wheelers at the 2023 Auto Expo being held in Greater Noida. With a commitment of Rs 1,500 crore capital investment into the EV space, Greaves Cotton has showcased its 2 and 3 wheelers inspired by the Arctic Tern for last passenger and cargo last mile e-mobility.In the electric two wheeler space, the company has the Ampere Primus, a B2C e-scooter on display with special attention to attracting the attention of younger segment of buyers. There is the Ampere NXG and Ampere NXU also in the same segmentElectric 2 and 3 Wheelers on DisplayIn the commercial electric three wheeler segment, Greaves Cotton has Greaves ELP – a passenger e3, along with Greaves ELC cargo e3w and Greaves Aero Vision which is a futuristic cargo concept on display.Greaves ELP – an electric passenger 3 wheeler that will empower auto drivers with disruptive cost savingsGreaves ELC – an electric cargo 3 wheeler that will meet the ever-growing demand in moving cargo, at a much lower cost to serveGreaves Aero Vision – a futuristic cargo concept that will ensure the needs of efficiency and performance are met in the evolving cargo mobility segment.Future Greaves Cotton Electric Rickshaw – 2023 Auto ExpoAmpere Primus – An elegant looking, high speed scooter promises a top speed of 77 km/h, acceleration from 0-40 km/h in under 5 seconds and efficient torque via a 4 kW mid mounted motor. Range stands at 100+ kms on full charge while it is offered in 4 modes of Eco, City, Power, and Reverse.On the safety front, it gets LFP battery technology with smart BMS in Phase 1 with AIS 156 compliance. The battery offers longer life with this LFP technology thus making it cost effective to customers.Features on board the Ampere Primus include Bluetooth connectivity, navigation via phone app, and seating is wider with added leg room. The Primus is offered in a choice of 4 metallic colour options of Himalayan White, Royal Orange, Havelock Blue and Buck Black along with dual tone body panels.Ampere Electric Scooter – 2023 Auto ExpoAmpere NXG is also a highly good looking e-scooter with IoT connectivity while Ampere NXU is a B2B e-scooter useful for commercial applications while it can also be used for private use. Of these, the Ampere Primus is now open for bookings across India while the other vehicles will be launched in the coming financial year.Electric Vehicle PowertrainsWhere powertrains to power the electric vehicle segment is concerned, the company plans to introduce motor controllers and integration software. The company also plans to enhance growth of Greaves Finance and Greaves Retail along with shared initiatives with multi brand retails stores with over 15 electric vehicles along with service and spares for these cleaner and greener e-vehicles for more affordable last mile mobility.Future Greaves Cotton Electric Rickshaw – 2023 Auto ExpoNagesh Basavanhalli, Executive Vice Chairman of Greaves Cotton Limited said, “Greaves Cotton is in the process of transitioning from a metal-based, manufacturing engineering company to an electric, electronic and mechatronics based mobility technology company that is solving the 21st century challenges in clean and affordable last-mile mobility.The products and technology we have unveiled here, today, bear testimony to our purposeful stride towards emerging as India’s most complete EV ecosystem player. Each product, inspired by the Arctic Tern, epitomizes its sustainable spirit, aerodynamic efficiency for mobility and intelligent design. We are committed to help India transition to electric mobility while setting a new benchmark of scale, sophistication, and diversity in the EV landscape. 2023 marks a new growth phase for us, as we provide holistic, end-to-end solutions and empower lives.” More

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    Hyundai Ioniq 5 Electric India Launch Price Rs 44.95 L – 2023 Auto Expo

    Hyundai Ioniq 5 was launched today, at the Auto Expo 2023 – In the presence of brand ambassador Shah Rukh KhanHyundai Ioniq 5 India Launch – 2023 Auto ExpoHyundai Ioniq 5 is one of the hottest new age EVs in the world today. Futuristic looks and Eco-conscious interiors also play a key role in making the Ioniq 5 a very desirable car. India launch was much anticipated and finally, today at the 2023 Auto Expo, Hyundai has launched their Ioniq 5 electric car.Globally, it gets a 72.6 kWh battery pack with a single-motor and a dual-motor configuration. For India, Hyundai is offering just a single-motor setup. This and other aspects will help Hyundai to price the Ioniq 5 competitively and undercut its cousin Kia EV6 by quite some margin.Hyundai Ioniq 5 Prices IndiaKia and Hyundai are corporate sister companies. This allows them to share platforms and powertrains across various segments. In most cases, Hyundai products are positioned as premium offerings over Kia’s counterparts. In the hierarchy, Kia products are the least pricey, followed by Hyundai products with a slight price bump and some more with Genesis products.Taking a look at Santa Fe / Sorento, Palisade / Telluride and even Creta / Seltos, it is evident Hyundai products are the pricier options. With Ioniq 5 and EV6, there is a role reversal as the former will undercut the latter in pricing. And that too by a huge margin. Hyundai Ioniq 5 prices in India start from Rs 44.95 lakh, ex-sh. In comparison, Kia EV6 prices start from Rs 60.95 lakh, ex-sh.Hyundai Ioniq 5 Vs Kia EV6 – SpecsKia EV6 comes with a larger 77.4 kWh battery pack capable of 229 bhp and 350 Nm with a single motor RWD layout and 325 bhp and 605 Nm of torque with a dual motor AWD layout. In contrast, Hyundai Ioniq 5 comes equipped with a smaller 72.6 kWh battery pack capable of 217 bhp and 350 Nm of torque.Kia EV6 is brought into the country via CBU (Completely Built Unit) route attracting 60% customs duty. Whereas Hyundai Ioniq 5 is being brought into India via CKD (Completely Knocked Down) route attracting just 15% customs duty. A combination of lower customs duty, lower performance and smaller battery, will allow Hyundai to price its upcoming EV competitively.More features, Recycled materialsHyundai Ioniq 5 is a 5-seater electric crossover by the Korean manufacturer. It measures 4,635 mm in length, 1,890 mm in width and stands 1,605 mm tall. On the inside, it gets a vegan leather interior, a panoramic sunroof and plastics made out of recycled materials and is ecologically sensitive. The car also gets a massive 530L of boot space.Even though Kia EV6 and Hyundai Ioniq 5 share most of their components on a different scale, they are polar opposites in design. Kia shoots for a sporty and modern crossover which gets family design traits found on the front fascia. With the Ioniq 5, Hyundai has taken a radical approach and has created a retro-futuristic blast. More