More stories

  • in

    Mahindra XUV400 Electric SUV Officially Teased – Nexon EV Rival

    Mahindra XUV400 electric will primarily rival Tata Nexon EV that is currently the top selling electric car in the countryMahindra XUV400 Electric SUVMahindra has chalked out ambitious plans for EV segment, with both domestic and international markets on its radar. While its born-electric range will arrive in 2025, enthusiasts can look forward to XUV400 that will debut on September 08, 2022. Unlike Mahindra’s born electric SUVs that are based on an entirely new INGLO platform, XUV400 is essentially an electric version of ICE-based XUV300. The approach is quite similar to Nexon EV that is based on ICE-based Nexon SUV.However, one major difference is that XUV400 will be 4.2 meters in length, as compared to XUV300 that measures 3,995 mm. Size related tax benefits don’t apply in case of electric cars, which is why XUV400 can be stretched to its max limit. Being longer, users can expect roomy interiors and possibly larger boot space.Mahindra XUV400 Electric TeasedAs a challenger to Nexon EV and Nexon EV Max variant, XUV400 is expected to get multiple segment-first features. Nexon EV currently dominates passenger EV segment with market share of more than 85 percent by volumes. XUV400 will be Mahindra’s first major EV product, which is why its success is all the more important for the company.Assuming it gets a good response, XUV400 will help shape consumer perceptions and have a positive impact on other upcoming electric SUVs from Mahindra. It will have the new bronze logo, which was showcased on the XUV700 electric version earlier this month. Take a look at the official teaser video of the new XUV400 Electric SUV below.[embedded content][embedded content]Some segment-first features that could be included for XUV400 include a large touchscreen infotainment system. It will be powered by Mahindra’s AdrenoX connectivity platform. For reference, Nexon EV Max has a 7-inch floating dash-top touchscreen infotainment system by Harman. Another key upgrade could be ADAS features, which is likely to be offered with top-spec variants of XUV400. Apart from Nexon EV, even other rivals like MG ZS EV and Hyundai Kona EV do not have ADAS features.Mahindra XUV400 Electric SUVVisually, Mahindra XUV400 looks familiar to eXUV300 concept that was showcased at 2020 Auto Expo. Some key features include top-mounted L-shaped LED DRLs, sleek headlamps, closed-off front grille, body cladding, prominent rear bumper, rear spoiler and edgy tail lamps. XUV400 has standard door handles, as compared to flush door handles used in Mahindra born-electric SUVs.Mahindra XUV400 range, specs, priceIt is likely that XUV400 will have two battery pack options. Powertrain will comprise a single electric motor that sends power to front wheels. The electric motor will generate around 150 hp of max power. Range could be around 350-400 km, which is comparable to ARAI certified 437 km of Nexon EV Max. Standard Nexon EV has ARAI certified range of 312 km.Mahindra XUV400 Electric SUVMahindra XUV400 could be priced in the range of Rs 15 lakh to Rs 20 lakh. In comparison, Nexon EV Max is available in the range of Rs 18.34 lakh to Rs 19.84 lakh. MG ZS EV and Kona Electric are available at a starting price of Rs 21.99 lakh and Rs 23.84 lakh, respectively. More

  • in

    Bajaj Vincent Motorcycles Launch Planned To Rival Royal Enfield ?

    Britain’s Vincent Motorcycles is often termed as “Makers of World’s Fastest Motorcycles”Vincent Motorcycle2W and 3W manufacturing giant, Bajaj Auto Ltd has acquired the rights for the name Vincent. Bajaj has likely acquired HRD and Egli-Vincent brands as well. Vincent brand was previously owned by Dave Holder & Family and now, it seems that Bajaj owns the rights.Vincent Motorcycles was a British motorcycle manufacturer founded by Philip Vincent. He bought HRD and started producing motorcycles as HRD Vincent, which eventually became Vincent Engineers. Company’s most famous creation is the 1948 Vincent Black Shadow, which was the fastest bike in the world at that time.A Vincent Black Lightning broke the record of the highest price ever paid for a 2-wheeler at around Rs. 6 crore in 2018. It is extremely rare as only 31 models were ever made. That particular piece was used to set Australia’s land speed record of 228 km/h at that time by Jack Ehret. A Black Shadow did 241.9 km/h once after the rider stripped all of his clothes except for his boxers and was famously called “The Bathing Suit Bike”. Hey, that’s real history.Bajaj Vincent MotorcycleA story goes that Mr. Shankar Ramanan ordered a special black shadow which he took back to India and created a speed record at Juhu Aerodrome near Mumbai. Bajaj has not given any official statement regarding this update. But Vincent trademark along with (rumoured) HRD and Egli-Vincent seem to be Bajaj’s intellectual properties now.Bajaj Auto Trademarks VINCENT in the UKIt is not yet known if Bajaj is looking to make a speed record shattering machine or is reviving a classic brand to use Vincent as a sub-brand of retro classic motorcycles like Royal Enfield. Or we can expect a complete revival of Vincent brand to operate as its own entity under Bajaj’s umbrella of course. The latter seems to be a logical and reasonable possibility, isn’t it?Vincent name is trademarked by David M Holder in IndiaWe have BSA, Jawa and Yezdi that have been revived by Classic legends under Mahindra’s umbrella. TVS Motor also acquired British brand Norton Motorcycles recently. We can expect something similar with Bajaj’s acquisition of Vincent brand.Bajaj Version Of Triumph MotorcyclesBajaj has also partnered up with Triumph to launch affordable motorcycles. But those motorcycles will be sold as Triumph. It is likely that Bajaj uses this revived Vincent brand to launch their version of upcoming Triumph motorcycles. They partnered with KTM to launch KTM motorcycles in India and used tech to launch new Pulsar and Dominar motorcycles. Same could be repeated with Triumph and Vincent brand names.Royal Enfield’s parent company, Eicher Motors had applied for Vincent trademark in 2013.Demand for nostalgic retro classic motorcycles are on the rise not just here in India, but also worldwide. As of now, it is Royal Enfield which is leading the race by a huge margin. Not only in India, but even in select global markets. Most likely because there is no real competition.This is why other brands are trying to enter this space. In recent years we have seen Mahindra revive Jawa, Yezdi and BSA. With a brand like Vincent, Bajaj can expect to create a big impact in the retro classic motorcycle segment. And take on the leaders Royal Enfield. More details are expected to be revealed soon.Source More

  • in

    2023 Genesis Electrified G80 Starts at $80,920

    The 2023 Genesis Electrified G80 sedan has a starting price of $80,920.Currently only sold in California, Connecticut, New Jersey, and New York, the electric G80 will be available in Arizona, Nevada, Utah, and Washington in September.The Electrified G80 is only offered with a 365-hp dual-motor, all-wheel-drive powertrain.Genesis has introduced an electric version of the G80 sedan, but the two look so similar it may be hard to distinguish which one runs on gas and which one runs on electrons. However, now that the company has released pricing for the 2023 Genesis Electrified G80, it can be identified by its $80,920 price tag, which is about $10k more than the priciest gas-fed G80.As with some other new electric cars, the Electrified G80 isn’t sold in every state. It’s currently only available in California, Connecticut, New Jersey, and New York. That will change in September when sales of Genesis’s electric sedan expand to four more states: Arizona, Nevada, Utah, and Washington.More Genesis EVsAlthough the 2023 Electrified G80 will be sold in those eight states, it’s only available at select dealerships. For actual availability, Genesis suggests that shoppers contact their local dealer. The same applies to the GV60 electric SUV, which will also be sold in these eight states but could have limited availability.The Electrified G80 comes exclusively with a 365-hp dual-motor, all-wheel-drive powertrain. We recently tested one that hit 60 mph in 4.1 seconds. Not only were we impressed by its quickness, but we also lauded its quiet cabin and range. While the electric G80’s EPA-rated range isn’t yet available, Genesis estimates it’ll go 282 miles on a full charge. The one we tested went 280 miles on our 75-mph highway test.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 OpenWeb. 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

  • in

    2023 Mazda CX-9 Drops Base Model, Adds Standard Equipment

    The 2023 Mazda CX-9 is dropping the base Sport trim, making the Touring trim its new entry model.New for the 2023 model year, the Touring trim will offer second-row captain’s chairs as standard; they were previously optional.The 2023 CX-9 Touring will start at $40,025 and will begin arriving at dealerships later this fall.The Mazda CX-9 three-row SUV enters 2023 without the previous entry-level Sport trim level. The Touring will be the base model, meaning the CX-9 now starts above $40,000. As a reward for the increased barrier of entry, Mazda is offering new standard features for the Touring, including second-row captain’s chairs, a sunroof, LED fog lights, black- or sand-colored leather seats, and a wireless phone charger. Upgrading to the Touring Plus trim level, at $42,775, switches the second-row seat back to a three-place bench, though customers who won’t make use of the seventh seat can still opt for the captain’s chairs. Prices are going up slightly for other models, too, as the top Signature trim now starts at $49,735. Mazda offers three premium paint options for the CX-9: Soul Red Crystal Metallic and Machine Gray Metallic both cost $595, while Snowflake White Pearl Mica is $395.

    Across all trim levels, the 2023 CX-9 will still be powered by the same 2.5-liter turbocharged engine from the previous model. Unlike other models equipped with this engine that recently upped output to 256 horsepower, the CX-9 retains its 250-hp figure. All CX-9s still features a six-speed automatic transmission and Mazda’s i-Activ AWD system. According to Mazda, the CX-9 will begin arriving at dealerships sometime this fall.
    This content is imported from {embed-name}. 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

  • in

    Buick Reveals the Envista, a Spunky-Looking Compact SUV for China

    This is the Buick Envista, a new SUV model for the Chinese market.Its size puts it in between the subcompact Encore GX and the compact Envision in Buick’s lineup.We don’t know if it will come to the U.S., but the Envista name is trademarked here.Buick is big in China, with a far broader lineup than it offers in the States. Over there, Buick sells minivans, hatchbacks, and sedans, while on our shores the range includes just three distinct crossover models. Yet another Buick crossover, called the Envista, has just been revealed for China, and it strikes us as a logical addition to the brand’s U.S. lineup. Although there are no plans to bring it here at this point, the fact that Buick has already trademarked the Envista name suggests that it’s not such a far-fetched idea.

    Measuring 182.6 inches long and with a 106.3 inch wheelbase, the Envista fits neatly in between the subcompact Encore GX and the compact Envision in terms of size. It features a sloping rear roofline reminiscent of the many SUV “coupes” that exist within the luxury-crossover space. The front end, with sharply angled, slim headlights and a low-mounted grille, is the first production model to wear Buick’s new design language that was first introduced on the Wildcat concept earlier this year. It also features Buick’s new badge.

    Buick

    Buick

    The Envista is powered by a turbocharged 1.5-liter inline-four with 181 horsepower and a continuously variable automatic transmission. That doesn’t sound like the most exciting combination, but it’s par for the course in the compact SUV segment.Inside, the Envista has a dashboard featuring two 10.3-inch screens, one for the digital gauge cluster and one that serves as the central infotainment touchscreen. Wireless Apple CarPlay is available, as are over-the-air updates and a surround-sound audio system.

    Buick

    Buick says that the Envista will start at the equivalent of around $22,000 at current exchange rates, and orders are already open in China. We’re not sure when, or if, we’ll see this exact model in U.S. showrooms, but we wouldn’t be surprised if Buick brings something similar to this to our shores at some point.
    This content is imported from {embed-name}. 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

  • in

    Bajaj Sales Breakup July 2022 – Pulsar, Platina, Dominar, Chetak

    Bajaj Auto posted a 6.48 percent YoY growth in domestic markets while exports fell 14.28 percent in July 2022Bajaj Pulsar 200Bajaj Auto Limited has posted 2W sales (domestic + exports) of 3,03,260 units in July 2022. This was against 3,17,051 units sold in July 2021. In June 2022, sales had stood at 3,15,948 units relating to a MoM de-growth. Domestic sales increased 6.48 percent to 1,61,422 units in the past month from 1,51,594 units sold in July 2021 while exports dipped by 14.28 percent to 1,41,838 units from 1,65,457 units on a YoY basis.In domestic markets, the company reported a 6.48 percent YoY de-growth. Sales fell for each of the company models except the Pulsar and Chetak. Bajaj Pulsar topped the sales list with 1,01,905 units sold in the past month, up 56.55 percent from 65,094 units sold in July 2021. Bajaj Pulsar commanded a 63.15 percent share.Bajaj Auto Domestic Sales July 2022In the Pulsar lineup, it was Pulsar 125cc that garnered most sales at 59,844 units, up 72.63 percent from 34,667 units sold in July 2021. Pulsar 150cc sales stood at 31,416 units in the past month, up 45.88 percent over 21,535 units sold in July 2021. Pulsar 200cc sales also increased 84.25 percent YoY to 9,964 units from 5,408 units sold in July 2021. The company however, noted a YoY de-growth for the Pulsar 250, sales of which dipped to 681 units last month from 3,484 units sold in July 2021.Bajaj Platina posted an 11.21 percent YoY de-growth to 48,484 units from 54,606 units sold in July 2021. This was a 6,122 unit volume dip with a 30.04 percent share. Likewise, sales of the Bajaj CT also fell 78.31 percent Yoy to 6,064 units from 27,962 units sold in July 2021. Avenger sales dipped 47.58 percent to 1,256 units in the past month from 2,396 units sold in July 2021 with the Avenger 200cc gaining most sales of 1,143 units, down 38.75 percent from 1,866 units sold in July 2021. Avenger 250 sales dipped 78.68 percent to 113 units from 530 units sold in the same month last year.Bajaj Domestic Sales Jul 2022Dominar also suffered a YoY de-growth of 11.79 percent to 711 units from 806 units sold in July 2021 with the 409 units of Dominar 500cc and 302 units of Dominar 250cc sold during the month. Chetak sales increased 311.23 percent YoY to 3,002 units sold in July 2022 from 730 units sold in July 2021. Bajaj Chetak was the 6th best-selling electric scooter in India in the past month.Bajaj 2W Exports July 2022Exports of Bajaj Auto fell 14.28 percent YoY in July 2022. Exports which had stood at 1,65,457 units in July 2021 fell to 1,41,838 units in July 2022 with a 23,619 unit volume de-growth. Every model in the company lineup posted a YoY de-growth except for the CT and Discover.In global markets, it was the Bajaj Boxer that commanded most attention. Sales dipped 20.56 percent to 74,314 units in July 2022 from 93,548 units shipped in July 2021. The Boxer commands a 52.39 percent share on the export list. Most sales were seen for the Boxer 110 with 55,172 units sold last month, down 27.96 percent from 76,588 units sold in July 2022. There were also 11,440 units of Boxer 150cc shipped last month, down 23.28 percent from 14,912 units shipped in July 2021 and 7,702 units of Boxer 125cc exported with a 276.07 percent YoY growth over 2,048 units shipped in July 2021.Bajaj Exports Jul 2022Bajaj Pulsar exports fell 23.71 percent to 26,983 units in July 2022 from 35,371 units shipped in July 2021 leading to an 8,388 unit volume de-growth with a 19.02 percent share.  Pulsar 200cc received more attention in global markets with 14,677 units exported and a 1.92 percent YoY decline while there were also 1,568 units of Pulsar 125 and 9,714 units of Pulsar 150 shipped last month along with 1,204 units of Pulsar 250.Bajaj CT and Discover posted a 38.01 percent and 15.71 percent YoY growth respectively. Sales stood at 22,752 units and 12,784 units in July 2022, up from 16,486 units and 11.048 units sold in July 2021 respectively.  Of the CT, there were 9,192 units of CT110 sold in the past month along with 12,984 units of CT125 and 576 units of CT150. Discover 125cc exports were at 10,984 units along with 1,800 units of Discover 110. Platina (2,520 units), Dominar (2,101 units) and Avenger (384 units) also featured lower down on the export list with each posting a YoY de-growth. More

  • in

    Ather Electric Scooter Records 50k Production Milestone

    Ather Energy celebrates 50,000th electric scooter production landmark – Ather 450X Gen 3 in Mint Green50,000th Ather Electric ScooterIn recent months, EV sales in India have punched in higher numbers. And this has gotten enthusiasts, potential buyers, and the market in general to take note. With a multitude of electric two-wheeler brands reporting sales growth, the e2W industry has collectively benefitted. Momentum is expected to tide the industry in the months to come and help further strengthen this space.Ather Energy too has been reporting promising sales. In July 2022, sales were just shy of 2.5k units. Growth trends have now culminated in Ather Energy reporting its first 50,000 units production milestone. Accelerated growth over the recent 12-month period has helped reach the milestone in quick time. Given current trends, and overall growth reported by most electric two-wheelers, these numbers are further expected to grow.Ather Electric two-wheeler sales growthWhile e2W sales are still a small fraction of total 2W sales, these numbers will continue to improve as per demand estimates projected. With a renewed interest in electric two-wheelers, largely led by e-scooters, the current marketplace is proving to be a place of trust. Initial skepticism is no longer as pronounced, and more people seem keen.This even though e2Ws are not really cheap-er than traditional two-wheelers, especially high-speed variants. Market behaviour reveals an acceptance for e-scooters, irrespective of price bracket. An indication that a growing number of buyers are placing their confidence in charging on the go over filling on the go.Machines. Moments. Milestones.Celebrating our sweet 50,000th & the electrifying journey that lead up to it! ??? pic.twitter.com/7KrfK4yXZt— Ather Energy (@atherenergy) August 30, 2022e2W charging networkIn the meantime, the charging infra network across cities continues to be strengthened. Such centres are also exploring opportunities of swapping charged batteries for drained ones. This in turn would help save time and culminate into an efficient approach.As the network grows, it instills more confidence and continues to bring e2Ws into a position of favour. Given the potential of 2W sales in India, the e2W space will grow leaps and bounds as the country moves towards proposed deadlines of limiting dependency on fossil fuels.Ather 450X Gen 3 ride rangeSince its first launch in 2018, Ather Energy has come a long way. With over 4 years of sales under their belt, the company has continued to work on its scooters to ensure they meet ever growing customer demand. The newest launch from the manufacturer was scheduled last month with the Ather 450X Gen 3 e-scooter.Equipped with a 3.7 kWh lithium ion battery, the 74 Ah capacity unit enables a ride range of 146 kms. This continuity on ride range improvement is another compelling reason that has improved market sentiment. More

  • in

    2023 Yamaha FZ15 Facelift Unveiled – Can Run On Petrol, Ethanol

    Running motorcycles on Ethanol is a lot cleaner and also a lot more economical and also ecologically friendly2023 Yamaha FZ15 FaceliftEven though you can’t create fuel-grade pure Ethanol at your house. The idea still holds true. Rather than pumping more and more crude oil that might sway the ecological and geological system that this earth is, we can make our own fuel from agricultural crops. This sustainable fuel is also beneficial for the growth of agricultural sector.The wastes of produce are let to decompose with yeast and other microbes and due to fermentation, Ethanol is created. But you can’t just take Ethanol and put it in your vehicle that was designed to run on petroleum products like petrol and diesel. With high price tags of electric vehicles and not so many advances made in solar and hydrogen fields, Ethanol sounds feasible for developing countries like India, Brazil and the likes.2023 Yamaha FZ15 FaceliftHonda has always been hot for this flex fuel idea where an engine is designed to run on both fuels. Honda has been pioneering flex fuel tech for over a decade now. Brazil gets a Honda CG 160 Titan motorcycle in Brazil which can run on both petrol and ethanol. But emissions norms for India are in keeping with BS6 / Euro 5 levels. Whereas emission norms in Brazil are less than Euro 4 levels. This makes it easier to implement flex-fuel technology in the South American country.Now Yamaha has stepped into the arena in Brazil with 2023 Fazer FZ15 facelift. Brazil-spec FZ15 comes with a slightly updated design that is also likely to make it to India. But both displace the same 149cc. While Brazil-spec motor can run on both petrol and ethanol. This engine develops 12.2bhp with both fuels and develops 12.7Nm of torque.2023 Yamaha FZ15 FaceliftThis engine’s power and torque figures are mostly similar to India-spec FZ V3 which produces 12.4bhp and 13.3Nm. Also, cycle parts are mostly the same too. Brazil gets the same suspension, braking components, 17” alloy wheels, and probably the 5-speed gearbox too. But Brazil-spec 2023 Yamaha FZ15 Facelift gets some new things that FZ V3 in India doesn’t.Design Changes & ComponentryThe most impressive part that Brazilian FZ gets is Pirelli’s Diablo Rosso 2, which is offered as standard. Other changes include a new headlight assembly unit that seems to be inspired by the FZ25 that we have in India. FZ15 now gets a projector unit along with twin LED DRLs flanking the projector that looks very handsome.Rest of its design is kept intact, though. It still gets the same body panels, rear section, seats, fuel tank and everything. One design change that I wholeheartedly welcome is a black finish on the trim around its fake air vents situated on its muscular fuel tank shrouds. Earlier it was chrome and looked absolutely atrocious and gaudy.2023 Yamaha FZ15 FaceliftEven though Yamaha FZ15 ethanol that could run on both fuels is less likely to make it to India, the design changes are highly likely to make it to India. We can expect a refresh of FZ V3 by the end of this year and receive the same projector headlight assembly as Brazilian-spec FZ15. When launched, it will lock horns with Pulsar 150 and the likes. More