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    2023 Volkswagen ID.4's $38,790 Base Price Is $3735 Less Than Last Year

    The 2023 VW ID.4 adds a new base model that starts at $38,790, which is thousands less than last year.The newly introduced ID.4 Standard has a smaller 62.0-kWh battery that VW estimates has a range of 208 miles; other ID.4s feature an 82.0-kWh battery and 255–275 miles of range, per VW.The 2023 model year also brings subtle styling changes, a 12.0-inch touchscreen, and quicker fast-charging speeds.The 2023 Volkswagen ID.4 electric SUV is now more accessible to budget-minded buyers thanks to a new base model with a smaller battery. The new Standard trim level starts at $38,790, which is $3735 less than last year’s entry-level ID.4 Pro. For 2023, that price gap rises to $5000, since the Pro trim now starts at $43,790.

    Of course, saving money by picking the ID.4 Standard means sacrificing range, as Volkswagen estimates its 62.0-kWh battery pack will only provide 208 miles per charge (its EPA rating is pending). Compare that with the larger 82.0-kWh battery on all the other ID.4 models that VW predicts will offer between 255 and 275 miles of range. The larger battery also benefits from an increased 170-kW fast-charging capability. The company doesn’t provide estimated charging times for the smaller battery, but it does make Plug and Charge standard, which simplifies public charging with its automated payment system.
    For 2023, the entire ID.4 lineup receives subtle styling changes that include gloss-black bits on the front bumper as well as new wheel and paint options. Every Pro S now has an illuminated VW logo and light line on its nose as well as a light-up logo on its rump. Inside, there’s a newly standard 12.0-inch touchscreen and USB-C charging. The Standard trim is also said to be dressier than previous Pros, with stitching on its dash and nicer seating materials than the old cloth upholstery. Stepping up to S models also ups the luxe thanks to two new faux-leather options and different stitching on the door panels. There’s also a redesigned center console and heated rear seats are a new option on the ID.4 S Plus.
    Every model still benefits from a host of standard driver-assistance tech, which now includes VW’s park-assist feature. Plus, the EV SUV’s standard automated emergency braking now includes cyclist detection. The 2023 model year also sees ID.4 production move to the U.S. at the VW’s Chattanooga factory. The new models are expected to reach dealerships this fall.
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    New TVS Scooter Patent Leaks – Powered By Hydrogen

    TVS is the first mainstream two wheeler manufacturer to implement Hydrogen powertrain on a scooter prototypeImage for representation purpose onlyTVS Motor sold 2,99,658 units in July 2022 constituting both domestic and export sales with a steady 14.06% growth YoY. TVS was in the spotlight recently because of the launch of their new motorcycle Ronin. They are back in the news, this time for a patent leak.TVS is developing a new prototype scooter that is powered by hydrogen. You might have heard of hydrogen fuel-cell-powered cars like Toyota Mirai. Or other hydrogen-powered concept vehicles like Suzuki Crosscage and Honda’s unnamed prototype. This is probably the first time a mainstream two wheeler brand is trying something like this.Yamaha, along with Toyota has designed a 100% hydrogen-powered V8 engine. But the concept of hydrogen fuel-cell on a modest scooter and aimed at masses, was unheard of. But TVS is implementing it on the iQube scooter with easy assembly and maintenance in mind. As good as EVs are, charging time is still a fly in the ointment. Hence, manufacturers have been slowly experimenting with substitutes. Honda is even working on flex-fuel technology too for budget vehicles.TVS iQube HydrogenIn the patent drawings of TVS iQube hydrogen, we can see the basic layout of the entire powertrain, except for the motor. We can see an electric battery at the floorboard which suggests that TVS might be considering hydrogen fuel cells as a range extender to an already existing EV platform.TVS iQube HydrogenSpeaking of hydrogen, we can see two canisters holding this compressed gas at the front, held in place by the front downtube. Fuel cells are housed under the seat, where a battery would be in a conventional EV. We can also see other components required to regulate gaseous fuel like pressure regulator, flow-meter and shut-off valve, all taking their respective place near swingarm.Hydrogen fuel cells are the party piece of this powertrain. It generates electricity when hydrogen is pumped into Anode and gets split by reacting with the catalyst to form electrons and protons. These electrons flow towards Cathode by completing the electrical circuit. Hence creating electric current to power the motor, and propel the vehicle. It doesn’t end there. At cathode, hydrogen and oxygen combine to form the by-product, water.Implications Of Hydrogen In IndiaHydrogen fuel cells promise zero carbon footprint like EVs. But negate the charging time and infrastructure that is currently plaguing EVs. Normal hydro-carbon fuel stations and existing fuel transportation systems can be readily used or slightly modified to accommodate hydrogen fuel supply and workflow. Looking at the upsides, most countries are considering hydrogen to be better than EVs.But it is not all sunshine, though. Right now, hydrogen is vastly created by splitting water molecules with very high energy inputs. We are wasting a lot of electricity to make hydrogen and then we are using it to generate significantly less electricity to run the vehicle. The secondary losses are a lot more which EVs are not associated with. And coming to the “green” part, electricity to split water molecules comes from coal mostly and hydrogen is distributed by transportation burning diesel fuel. Hydrogen has potential, but we have to find an economical and renewable way to produce it and supply it.Source More

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    Royal Enfield Hunter 350 Revealed By Siddhartha Lal

    A roadster, Hunter 350 has a sleek profile in comparison to other 350cc Royal Enfield bikes like Classic, Meteor and BulletRoyal Enfield Hunter 350 Revealed By Siddhartha LalAs part of its long-term plan to introduce an average of four products every year, Royal Enfield will soon launch Hunter 350. The bike will be borrowing most of the key components like engine, chassis, suspension and braking apparatus from Meteor 350. However, Hunter 350 has unique design and styling in line with its positioning as an urban roadster.There will be two variants on offer, Hunter Retro and Hunter Metro. The difference between the two variants encompasses colour options as well as equipment list. While Hunter Retro will target users with limited budget, Hunter Metro is for folks who want access to all the available advanced features.Hunter 350 featuresWhile it looks different in relation to Royal Enfield’s standard design philosophy, Hunter 350 continues with the signature retro bits such as round headlamp, rear view mirrors and tail lamp. Fuel tank has a sharp profile with dedicated indentations for comfortably accommodating the knees. Other key features include sporty graphics, single-piece saddle and compact exhaust. It will be interesting to see the aural experience this bike has to offer.Users can expect a comfortable riding stance with centrally placed footpegs and ergonomically positioned handlebar. With its compact proportions, Hunter 350 will allow improved handling across city streets. For reference, Hunter 350 is 85 mm shorter in length and has 30 mm less wheelbase in comparison to Meteor 350. Hunter 350 has seat height of 800 mm and ground clearance of 150 mm. Fuel tank capacity is 13 litres.New Royal Enfield Hunter 350 revealed by @sidlal pic.twitter.com/7hCI15DodE— RushLane (@rushlane) August 4, 2022Hunter 350 variantsTalking about variant-wise features, entry-level Hunter Retro model has wire-spoke wheels, disc-drum brake combo, single-channel ABS, old Classic-type handle switch, basic instrument cluster, halogen tail lamp and oval-shaped turn signals. While both Retro and Metro variants will have 17-inch wheels at both ends, Retro variant will have 100/80 front and 120/80 rear tyre. In comparison, Metro variant will have 110/70 and 140/70 tyres.Hunter Retro variant weighs 177 kg, as compared to 181 kg of Metro variant. Retro will not get main stand. It will have two colour options of Factory Black and Factory Silver. In comparison, Hunter Metro variant has colour options of Dapper White and Dapper Ash. A third colour option of Dapper Grey will be offered via RE’s MIY personalization platform. A Metro Rebel version will also be available, which will get colour options of Rebel Black, Rebel Blue and Rebel Red (MIY).Hunter 350 Metro variant will have alloy wheels, disc brakes (300 mm / 270 mm), dual-channel ABS, LED tail lamp, round turn indicators and Meteor-type handle switch and instrument cluster. It has now been revealed by Siddhartha Lal, CEO and MD of Eicher Motors, the parent company of Royal Enfield.Royal Enfield is expected to launch Hunter 350 at an introductory price of around Rs 1.5 lakh to Rs 1.7 lakh. This makes Hunter the most affordable 350cc bike in the country. It will primary rival recently launched TVS Ronin. More

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    Honda 2W sales July 2022 – Activa, CB Shine, CB350, Grazia, Hornet

    Honda Two Wheeler sales increased 15.07 percent YoY and 15.57 percent on MoM basis in July 2022Honda Activa No 1 Scooter Of IndiaHonda Motorcycle and Scooter India gears up to launch a new two wheeler in the country on 8th August 2022 and teasers have been released. This upcoming launch could be the Forza maxi-scooter. HMSI is also planning to launch the new Honda CRF300L which has also been spied at a company dealership.Honda 2W Sales July 2022HMSI has released their sales numbers for July 2022. Sales stood at 443,643 units in July 2022. This was a YoY growth of 15.07 percent as against 3,85,533 units sold in July 2021 relating to a 58,110 unit volume growth. MoM sales saw an increase of 15.57 percent from 3,83,882 units sold in June 2022.In July 2022, the company posted positive growth in domestic markets with an 18.40 percent increase to 4,02,710 units, up from 3,40,133 units sold in July 2021. This was a 62,568 unit volume growth with a 90.77 percent share.MoM growth was at 13.26 percent from 3,55,560 units sold in June 2022. Honda’s domestic sales are marked by the Activa scooter that has always stood at the top of domestic sales charts. Top sellers for Honda continue to be the likes of Activa, CB Shine, Dio, Grazia, Hornet, CB350, Livo, Dream, etc.Honda Two Wheeler Sales July 2022Honda 2W Exports July 2022Exports on the other hand dipped 9.82 percent to 40,942 units in July 2022 from 45,400 units sold in July 2021 relating to a 4,458 unit volume de-growth and a 9.23 percent share. MoM exports grew by 44.56 percent from 28,322 units shipped in June 2022. This was a 12,620 unit volume growth with 7.38 percent share.In July 2022, the company also expanded its export markets with the 125cc motorcycle SP125 shipped to Australia and New Zealand. HMSI has also expanded its dealership networks. Added Honda BigWing dealerships have been inaugurated in Warangal (Telangana), Madurai (Tamil Nadu), Thodupuzha (Kerala) and Malappuram (Kerala).The two wheeler maker also conducted a road safety awareness program along with the Rajasthan Police for the newly recruited police officials in Rajasthan. Awareness campaigns were also conducted at Varanasi (Uttar Pradesh), Etawah (Uttar Pradesh), Bhiwadi (Rajasthan), Arakkonam (Tamil Nadu), Bongaigaon (Assam) and Ambala (Haryana) while HMSI celebrated 6th anniversary of Children’s Traffic Training Park in Ludhiana (Punjab).Coming back to the upcoming launch of Honda Forza scooter, it is expected to be launched at around Rs 3.5 lakh (ex-showroom), this making it significantly cheaper than its rival BMW C 400GT which comes in at Rs 10.40 lakh (ex-showroom). It is slated to be powered by a 330cc, single cylinder, liquid cooled engine offering 28.8 hp power and 31.5 Nm torque with dual channel ABS. Suspension will be via telescopic fork at front and twin shock absorbers at the rear and braking via front and rear disc brakes. More

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    GM Doubling the Number of Roads That Work with Super Cruise

    GM will soon double the number of roads in Canada and the U.S. that work with its Super Cruise hands-free driver-assist system. The newest GM vehicles with the Vehicle Intelligence Platform (VIP) will be the first ones to get the no-cost, over-the-air update later this year. The eligible 2022 models include the Cadillac CT4, CT5, Escalade, and Lyriq; the GMC Hummer EV and Sierra 1500; and the Silverado 1500—although the chip shortage means it may not be available on every vehicle it’s intended for right now.There will soon be a lot more roads in the United States and Canada that work with Super Cruise. That’s because GM announced today that later this year it’ll be doubling the number of roadways that work with its hands-free driver-assist system. The current network includes about 200,000 miles of mapped divided highways. The plan to double its size means that drivers will be able to travel hands-free on over 400,000 miles of roads throughout the two countries.

    What’s even more notable is that GM says the expansion won’t continue to be limited to the interstate. The updated Super Cruise will be operational on a combination of divided and undivided state and federal roads. Among the most iconic of the new routes are the Pacific Coast Highway (California Route 1), the Overseas Highway (U.S. Route 1), and the Mother Road (U.S. Route 66).

    GM

    The company also said that new vehicles with its Vehicle Intelligence Platform (VIP) that are already equipped with Super Cruise will be the first to benefit from the expansion. The list of 2022 models that are eligible for the full update includes the Cadillac CT4, CT5, and Escalade; the Chevy Silverado 1500; the GMC Hummer EV and Sierra 1500. They’ll just have to receive an over-the-air update at no additional cost, which will be available later this year.Meanwhile, models such as the Cadillac CT6 sedan (now defunct) and XT6 SUV as well as the Chevy Bolt EUV, which feature the company’s Global A platform, are also eligible for the upgrade, but a GM spokesperson told Car and Driver that they’ll “receive a smaller portion of the expansion.”Back in May, we learned that the 2023 Chevy Suburban and Tahoe will be getting Super Cruise. The ’23 GMC Yukon and Cadillac Lyriq also have the hands-free system. However, we’re still unsure how the semiconductor shortage could affect Super Cruise’s availability or how it might affect other new models that look to add it.
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    Hero MotoCorp Two Wheeler Exchange Platform Goes Phygital

    Hero MotoCorp Wheels of Trust used two-wheeler platform to benefit form phygital operationsHero SplendorThe Indian Two Wheeler market is larger than life. With lakhs of new vehicles sold each month, data for the used 2W market isn’t as comprehensive. This is largely because the used 2 Wheeler market benefits from personal involvement. Such sales are transacted on multiple online platforms, by word of mouth and even by neighbourhood mechanics. As such, while the market is large, exact numbers are not always readily available.However, with manufacturers involved in the process, the system benefits. Hero MotoCorp Wheels of Trust has now been transformed to a phygital avatar that harnesses strengths from flexibility.Exchange multi-brand two-wheelersThe integrated omni-channel (digital and on-ground) exchange ecosystem is designed to go from strength to strength. In essence, it is a one-stop solution to exchange multi-brand two-wheelers at the best resale value. An online platform lets prospective customers avail of Wheels of Trust DIY (do-it-yourself) valuation.This offers timely and transparent indicative resale value. The expansive network and its trusted channel partners assist with ‘professional certification, spot-bidding for best market offers, quick deal and hassle-free exchange’.Hero dealership. File photo.Used bike value propositionConsidering the expansive size of the Indian 2 Wheeler industry, it’s not difficult to guess the potential of the used market. And while newer bikes continue to benefit from tech advances, the marketplace is filled to the brim with used bikes.Being a competitive marketplace, buyers and sellers are on the lookout for a strong value proposition. With an endless choice of personal mobility solutions on offer, there’s something for everyone. Those using the Wheels of Trust platform can scan a QR Code for a convenient experience. Most importantly, tie is essential, and things could get moving instantaneously.Over 5 lakh Hero MotoCorp Wheels of Trust customersRanjivjit Singh, Chief Growth Officer, Hero MotoCorp said, “Wheels of Trust’, the two-wheeler resale platform from Hero MotoCorp has served more than 5 Lac+ happy customers with complete trust, transparency and peace of mind. Now in the phygital avatar, customers can discover the best resale value of any two-wheeler from the comfort and convenience of their homes. The pre-owned segment is evolving each day, and we are happy to provide an ecosystem that enables owners of old two-wheelers to have a hassle free upgrade.”As with all things, a digital presence makes for transparent dealings, and offers buyers and sellers all the data required to make an informed choice. And such decisions in quick time also help smoothen the transition into buying your next two-wheeler. As is the norm, a large number of folks go from one vehicle to another and use the exchange amount towards funding the next purchase. And doing so in an organised manner is beneficial to the used two-wheeler ecosystem. More

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    Royal Enfield Hunter 350 Exhaust Note Revealed In New Teaser

    Hunter 350 is set to become the smallest, lightest and least expensive Royal Enfield on offerRoyal Enfield Hunter 350cc RenderRoyal Enfield enjoys a certain cool factor in India. It is one of the most in-trend motorcycle brands and is expected to stay that way for a long time. Fuelled by the nostalgia it invokes, Royal Enfield is trying to expand its portfolio both vertically and horizontally.In that light, we have seen a lot more products from Royal Enfield launched across various segments and price points. Royal Enfield currently tops 200cc to 500cc segment. But the latest venture by Royal Enfield is supposed to make the British brand’s name accessible to a wider customer base. That will be Hunter 350.Royal Enfield Hunter 350 Teaser – Exhaust NoteWhen we say Hunter 350 will appeal to a wider audience, we don’t mean just in terms of pricing. Of course, pricing will be lower. At least with the base Retro variant. If Royal Enfield offers it around Rs. 1.4 lakh to Rs. 1.5 lakh, the company has basically struck gold. The other aspect is weight. As per leaked specs which we covered in a previous post, the base Retro variant is just 177 kg while Metro and Metro Rebel weigh 181 kg.This attracts a lot of customers that want to be associated with this nostalgic brand, but would scoff away from 195 kg of Classic 350 and 191 kg of Meteor 350. Weight and long wheelbase are good for that occasional highway ride. But for everyday use, they make a bike “Chota haathi”. All those people can now look at Hunter 350. Latest teaser reveals the exhaust note of Hunter 350 or Hunter 350 sound.[embedded content][embedded content]Leaked spy shots reveal the lean and athletic design of Hunter 350. This is a departure from the bulky and chunky design that Royal Enfield bikes are generally associated with. Design seems to be heavily inspired by another British product, Triumph Street Twin. Hunter 350 will rival the upcoming Bajaj-Triumph motorcycle.In the earlier teaser, Royal Enfield had dropped a subtle hint of the possibility of launching the new Bullet 350 alongside Hunter 350. Their teaser had the tagline Bullet Meri Jaan. Bullet name is actually more popular in India than Royal Enfield’s own name. Bullet is RE and RE is Bullet.Specs & LaunchComing back to Hunter, the Retro variant only gets a disc at front and single-channel ABS. It gets spoked wheels, halogen bulbs all around, oval indicators, and classic analog instrument clusters. Hunter Metro, however, gets 270 mm disc at the rear and dual-channel ABS. It gets alloys, LED tail lamp, round indicators, and Meteor’s instrument cluster. Hunter 350 gets a seat height of 800mm, while ground clearance is at 150mm and fuel tank capacity is 13 liters.Royal Enfield Hunter 350Hunter 350 gets the same J-platform that’s currently doing duties in Classic 350 and Meteor 350. It has a twin downtube spine frame, telescopic front forks and twin rear shocks. Hunter is also powered by the same 349cc motor that makes 20.2 bhp and 27 Nm and is mated to a 5-speed gearbox. Royal Enfield will launch Hunter 350 on 7th of August, 2022. When launched, it will lock horns with recently launched mixed-bag, TVS Ronin, Bajaj Dominar 250 and also the upcoming Bajaj-Triumph motorcycle. More

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    Honda Dio Sports Limited Edition Launch Price Rs 68k – New Graphics

    Honda Dio shares its 110cc engine and frame with the India’s No 1 selling scooter, ActivaHonda Dio Sports Edition Launched Dio Sports is Honda’s attempt at providing a sporty experience to its customers. The Japanese brand may not be highest-selling motorcycle company in India, but is the highest-selling scooter brand. With 2,85,691 units sold in June 2022, Honda is the second highest-selling 2-wheeler brand in the country, after Hero.But if we break down Honda’s sales, it sold 1,84,305 Activa in June 2022. But Dio is not that high up the list with just 26,450 units sold in the same month. So, to spruce up sales figures, Honda has launched a new Sports limited edition of Dio.Honda Dio Sports EditionDio was already a swaggy alternative to the conventional scooter, that is Activa. But with the new Dio Sports, Honda is adding a little more swag. For starters, Dio Sports is a limited edition and comes in two colours, Strontium Silver Metallic with Black and Sports Red with Black. Both these colours are offered with both Standard & Deluxe variants. Aiming at the youth, Honda wants to revolutionize style for youth with an aggressive and sporty vibe.In terms of changes, Dio Sports gets a few. To begin with, it gets new funky and youthful graphics on body panels. The rear suspension springs for its twin shockers are now finished in red. Suspension hardware is the same, though. Next change in line is only applicable to the Deluxe variant and that is the new 5-spoke alloy wheels. Earlier Dio Deluxe variants used to get gold-coloured steel wheels. Take a look at the short walkaround video below, credit to Engineered Biker.[embedded content][embedded content]Specs & PricingMechanically, Dio Sports is identical to the model currently on sale. Both engine and cycle parts are identical except for the alloy wheels on Deluxe variant. It is powered by a 110 cc single-cylinder, fuel-sipping petrol engine making 7.65 bhp at 8,000 RPM and 9 Nm at 4,750 RPM. This engine also gets Honda’s proprietary eSP technology (Enhanced Smart Power & not Electronic Stability Program).Honda Dio gets 160 mm of ground clearance and weighs only 105 kg. Other notable features include an integrated dual function switch, external fuel lid, passing switch and side stand indicator (with engine cut-off). It gets telescopic suspension at the front. A glaring omission on a sporty scooter is the absence of disc brakes even as an option.It also gets a combi-brake system (CBS) with equalizer and 3-step adjustable rear suspension along with a 3-Step Eco Indicator for better fuel efficiency. The external fuel filler lid is a godsend feature that upcoming Hero 125cc scooter misses out on.In terms of pricing, Honda Dio Sports limited edition prices start from Rs. 68,317 for the base Standard trim and go all the way to Rs. 73,317 for top-spec Deluxe variant (prices ex-sh). Niceties like LED headlights, LED DRLs and alloy wheels are only exclusive to Deluxe variant. Dio Sports compete with other 110cc scooters like Hero Pleasure +, TVS Scooty Zest 110, TVS Jupiter 110, and Honda’s own Activa. More