More stories

  • in

    KTM To Go Clutchless – Select 2025 Models To Get AMT Option

    Upcoming KTM ADV Motorcycle With AMT GearboxWith gear shifts taking just 50 milliseconds, KTM’s AMT system delivers the same level of performance as a manual transmission equipped with a quickshifter
    Earlier this year in June, KTM had teased an AMT system at the gruelling Red Bull Erzbergrodeo race. Latest reports indicate that KTM will introduce the clutchless AMT transmission with select models in 2025. KTM Bikes using the LC8 V-Twin engine such as the 1290 Super Adventures, 1290 Super Dukes and upcoming 1390 Adventure and 1390 Super Adventure could be among the first KTM bikes to get the AMT system.
    KTM clutchless AMT – How it works?
    For initiating the shifts, KTM’s AMT system utilizes an electromagnetic shift actuator. It works by turning the shift drum. KTM’s AMT setup is quite fast as the gear shifts take only around 50 milliseconds. This is almost the same as the time taken to shift gears using a quickshifter. Users can choose either the fully automatic mode or a manual mode. In the manual mode, the gears can be changed via switchgear mounted paddles or using the foot shifter.
    KTM ADV Without Clutch
    The manual mode works without a clutch, which can have both advantages and disadvantages. For example, professional riders may prefer a clutch for its ability to allow finer control. However, KTM says that the clutchless systems can be advantageous when negotiating a slope, riding at slow speeds, stopping and pulling away. The clutchless system will be especially beneficial for bigger, heavier KTM bikes.
    No stall
    KTM has ensured that its AMT system is free from stalls. Irrespective of the bike’s speed, it will be almost impossible to stall the engine. The gear shift mechanism works in combination with the ride modes. This allows users to tune the gear shifts based on the riding conditions and their preferences.
    As soon as the first gear is engaged, the engine speed is raised, thereby initiating the forward drive. At the same time, the centrifugal clutch is engaged, allowing the bike to move forward. This setup is similar to some of the aftermarket products such as the Rekluse Auto Clutch. However, KTM’s AMT system has an additional electronic control system.
    AMT system has the gear shifts in a  ‘P – N – 1 – 2 – 3 – 4 – 5 – 6’ sequence. P denotes Park, which is there to avoid any unwanted rolling. It is made possible with the use of a locking pawl installed within the gearbox. Irrespective of whether the engine is running or not, the Park and Neutral positions can be engaged only via the switchgear paddle shifters. Moreover, either the front or rear brake has to be engaged for the AMT system to apply the first gear. While KTM has assured that the AMT will have minimal weight gain, it remains to be seen if there is any significant cost increase.
    KTM AMT rivals
    Automatic gearbox for premium bikes is not new. Honda’s Dual Clutch Transmission (DCT) is already quite popular, having sold more than 200,000 such bikes. Honda bikes like Africa Twin Adventure Sports have the DCT option. Similarly, there’s BMW’s Automated Shift Assistant (ASA) seen with the latest GS range. Yamaha is also working on its Y-AMT system, which can be offered with select bikes in the future.
    Source More

  • in

    Tata Punch EV, Tiago EV Get More Accessible – Additional Savings Up To Rs 56,000

    New Tata Punch EV. Image – Shubhadip SinghaLatest cash discounts and corporate discounts are in addition to the reduced prices announced for Tata EVs last month in September
    With multiple options in the entry-level EV segment, Tata Motors has acquired close to 2/3rd market share. To boost sales during the festive season, prices of select variants of Nexon EV, Punch EV and Tigor EV were recently reduced by up to Rs 3 lakh. And now, Tata has announced more savings for potential buyers.
    Tata Punch EV – Up to Rs 26,000 savings
    For both the MY2023 and MY2024 models of Punch EV, Tata Motors is offering a cash discount of Rs 20,000. In addition, a corporate discount of up to Rs 6,000 can also be availed by eligible customers. The cash discount is being offered in the form of Green Bonus.
    Earlier in September, Tata Motors had announced the Festival of Cars festive offers for select electric models. Punch EV was also part of this offer, with prices reduced by up to Rs 1.2 lakh on select variants. Punch EV is now more accessible at a starting price of Rs 9.99 lakh, as compared to Rs 10.99 lakh earlier. For the top variant, prices were reduced from Rs 14.99 lakh to Rs 13.79 lakh.
    Tata Tiago EV – Up to Rs 56,000 savings
    Customers planning to buy Tiago EV can access max savings of up to Rs 56,000. Provided that they choose the mid-spec XT variant with the 24-kWh battery pack that offers a range of 275 km. A cash discount of Rs 50,000 and corporate discount of up to Rs 6,000 is applicable on this variant of Tiago EV. Folks buying the entry-level XE or XT (smaller 19.2 kWh battery pack) variant of Tiago EV can benefit from a cash discount of Rs 10,000. Variants with the smaller battery pack offer a range of 221 km.
    2024 Tata Tiago EV
    Last month, the top variant of Tiago EV had witnessed a price reduction of up to Rs 40,000. It is now available at Rs 10.99 lakh, as compared to Rs 11.39 lakh earlier. Base variant of Tiago EV is available at Rs 7.99 lakh. With the latest cash discount and corporate discount, Tiago EV has become even more accessible.
    Managing headwinds
    While OEMs announce festive offers every year, the recent price cuts and cash discounts and corporate discounts for Tata EVs could also be a strategy to overcome negative market sentiments. At a time when the EV segment is expected to register strong growth, the MoM numbers for electric car sales show an overall decline of -7.32% in September 2024.
    Even the second best selling electric car brand MG Motor has registered negative MoM growth in the month. In the mainstream EV segment, Mahindra and Citroen have registered strong growth. Although, actual sales numbers are a small fraction when compared to ICE car sales.
    Talking about Tata Motors, the company is contemplating other measures as well to boost sales. For example, the BaaS (Battery as a Service) option can be introduced for all Tata electric cars. With BaaS, customers will be able to access these EVs at a lower price point. Recently launched MG Windsor EV received 15,176 bookings in a single day. It is evidence of the immense potential of the BaaS program. More

  • in

    Electric Car Sales Sep 2024 – Tata, MG, Mahindra, Citroen, BYD, Hyundai, Kia

    Tata Punch EV – Car MarvelSeveral upcoming models by leading automakers in the electric car segment could significantly boost sales in the months ahead
    Economic concerns, reduced incentives and sufficient charging infrastructure has led to the electric car segment seeing lackluster sales over the past few months. Lower sales both on a year on year (YoY) and month on month (MoM) basis was experienced in September 2024 to just 5,874 units sold. Federation of Automobile Dealers Association (FADA), sales results showed many brands report lower sales while there were some gainers in this segment.
    Tata Motors Leads Electric Car Segment
    Total electric car sales in the past month stood at 5,874 units. This was a YoY de-growth by 7.76% from 6,368 units sold in Sept 2023. MoM sales also declined by 7.32% from 6,338 units sold in August 2024. This was the lowest sales recorded in this segment during the period January to Sept 2024.
    Electric Car Sales Sep 2024 – YoY Comparison
    Tata Motors, with the healthiest lineup of electric cars, among which are the likes of Nexon, Tiago, Tigor, Punch and new Curvv EV, has recorded retail sales at 3,621 units in Sept 2024. This was a marked decline of 16.26% over 4,325 units sold in Sept 2023. MoM sales also suffered a setback by 11.38% from 4,086 units sold in Aug 2024. Tata Motors is planning to launch BaaS (Battery as a Service) for its electric lineup which will relate to significantly lower pricing.
    MG Motor has the Comet and ZS EV along with the new Windsor in this segment, sales of which have seen a 9.16% YoY growth to 977 units in the past month from 895 units sold in Sept 2023. MoM sales however, declined massively by 27.79% over 1,353 units sold in Aug 2024.
    Electric Car Sales Sep 2024 – MoM Comparison
    Mahindra EV lineup, which currently sees the XUV400 as the only offering in this segment, has seen outstanding demand. Sales improved by 26.82% YoY and 43.22% MoM to 454 units. This was a growth over 358 units and 317 units sold in Sept 2023 and Aug 2024 respectively. In a bid to extend its EV segment, Mahindra is also actively testing the new range of electric SUVs among which the e9 and BE05 could be the first to launch as they have been recently seen during a TVC shoot.
    Citroen electric car retail sales saw overwhelming demand last month. Sales improved to 386 units which was a 169.93% YoY and 142.77% MoM growth. BYD India also showed YoY growth in electric car retail sales by 7.95% to 163 units while there had been 151 units sold in Sept 2023. MoM sales on the other hand declined by 22.01% from 209 units sold in Aug 2024.
    BMW Sales Exceed Mercedes in Luxury Segment
    German luxury car maker BMW India is a leader in the luxury segment with sales of 106 units in Sept 2024. The company reported both YoY and MoM growth by 37.66% and 68.25% respectively over 77 units and 63 units sold in Sept 2023 and Aug 2024. Mercedes electric car sales also surged YoY and MoM to 81 units last month. This was a 10.96% YoY and 68.75% MoM growth over 73 units and 48 units sold in Sept 2023 and Aug 2024 respectively.
    Lower down the sales list was Hyundai with 26 unit sales, reporting a double digit YoY and MoM decline by 67.79% and 33.33% while Kia India’s EV6 sales dipped to 17 units in the past month. There had been 35 units sold in Sept 2023 while in Aug 2024, sales were at 18 units.
    Volvo also reported significantly lower sales last month down to 15 units. This was a 72.73% YoY decline from 55 units sold in Sept 2024 while MoM sales were down 48.28% over 29 units sold in Aug 2024. Audi sales also fell 57.69% to 11 units over 26 units sold in Sept 2023 while there were others in this segment that added 17 units to total sales relating to a 142.86% MoM growth from 7 units sold in Aug 2024. More

  • in

    Document Exposes Consumer Complaints Against Ola Electric

    Ola Electric Scooter ComplaintsHeavy Industries Ministry has sent letter to ARAI seeking more clarification into the complaints of Ola Electric scooters
    Ola Electric Mobility Ltd. is facing growing regulatory scrutiny as the Central Consumer Protection Authority (CCPA) has issued a show-cause notice in response to widespread consumer complaints. The notice comes amid allegations of service deficiencies, misleading advertisements, and unfair trade practices, pushing the company to respond within 15 days with supporting documentation.
    Grievances Unveiled
    A leaked document reveals the scale and nature of the consumer complaints that have been lodged against Ola Electric. Some of the key issues include:
    Ola Electric Scooter Complaints. Image – Alisha Sachdev
    – Charging during free service period/warranty – 109 complaints– Charging extra than promised – 91 complaints– Customer requests not entertained by dealer/service centers – 117 complaints– Improper customer/helpline services – 67 complaints– Delays in new vehicle delivery – 1,899 complaints– Delays in service/repair – 3,364 complaints– Delays in providing vehicle documents – 244 complaints– Fake insurance/documents provided by dealers – 21 complaints– Mileage not as per commitment – 28 complaints– Misbehaviour by dealer/company – 52 complaints– Misleading advertisements – 34 complaints– Non/partial refunds on booking cancellations – 270 complaints– Unfulfilled promised gifts – 111 complaints– Promised services not provided – 1,459 complaints– Same problem persisting after repairs – 471 complaints– Sale of second-hand/test-drive vehicles as new – 34 complaints– Unsatisfactory redressal of complaints – 672 complaints– Manufacturing defects in vehicles – 761 complaints– False promises and misleading information about vehicles – 144 complaints
    In addition to these, there are over 10,000 complaints registered in total.
    Mounting Pressure and Market Share Worries
    Analysts have pointed out that Ola Electric’s market share is under increasing pressure as competition in the electric two-wheeler segment intensifies. The company’s reputation has been shaken by these complaints, which could lead to further challenges in maintaining market leadership. According to insiders, this wave of negative publicity could affect consumer confidence in the brand, making it crucial for the company to resolve the issues swiftly.
    Ministry of Heavy Industries Investigates Service Complaints
    In a parallel development, the Union Ministry of Heavy Industries has launched an investigation into the service-related issues raised by Ola Electric customers. The ministry has sent a letter to the Automotive Research Association of India (ARAI), seeking clarification and inputs regarding the complaints filed.
    The ministry also emphasized that, as per the FAME-II and PM E-Drive schemes, all original equipment manufacturers (OEMs), including Ola Electric, are required to maintain service centers and provide warranties. Ola Electric, being a beneficiary of these schemes, has been asked to provide detailed comments and address the grievances at the earliest.
    Analyst Insights: Tough Times Ahead for Ola Electric
    With the combined pressure from the CCPA and the Ministry of Heavy Industries, industry analysts predict challenging times ahead for Ola Electric. The company’s ability to manage the situation and provide satisfactory responses will be crucial in determining its future market position. Ola Electric is trading at Rs 91 on the NSE, down 5%. More

  • in

    Upcoming Kia EV4 Electric Interiors Spied – Floating Widescreen

    Upcoming Kia EV4 ElectricWith its distinctive design, the Kia EV4 is a great option for those looking to experience something truly new
    Kia has started testing the EV4, a crossover sedan with SUV flavours and a sloping coupe roofline as well. EV4 is expected to be launched in 2025. Ahead of that, latest spy shots have revealed the interiors of Kia EV4.
    Kia EV4 cockpit revealed
    While test vehicles have been spotted earlier also, this is the first time the interiors of Kia EV4 have been revealed. A number of features appear to be borrowed from Kia EV3 that was introduced earlier this year in June.
    Upcoming Kia EV4 Electric
    One of the key attractions is the large widescreen panel. It has dual 12.3-inch screens for the touchscreen and the driver instrument display. In between, there’s a 5.3-inch climate control display. The widescreen covers more than half of the dashboard’s length.
    Below the floating widescreen, there’s a control panel with touch-sensitive buttons. These can be used to access the primary shortcuts such as Home, Media and Map. For practical convenience, EV4 has a conventional circular dial for the volume control. The AC vents are mounted on either side. With only a few physical buttons, the interiors look neat and decluttered. Similar to the EV3, the EV4 is expected to get a multi-layered dashboard.
    Upcoming Kia EV4 Electric
    Several of the tech features seen with EV3 could be introduced in EV4. For example, Kia EV4 could get the ChatGPT-powered AI digital assistant that is designed to improve overall user experience. Based on generative AI, the digital assistant can process various voice commands and act accordingly. It can provide travel related information, make music recommendations and control vehicle functions. With generative AI like ChatGPT, the possibilities are limitless. Kia EV4 will also be getting the regular tech features such as wireless Android Auto and Apple CarPlay.
    Upcoming Kia EV4 Electric
    Kia EV4 specs, performance
    Similar to Kia EV3, EV6, EV9 and various Hyundai and Genesis cars, the Kia EV4 also utilizes the Hyundai Motor Group E-GMP electric platform. Among these, only the EV3 has a 400-volt electrical system. Other cars utilize an 800-volt electrical system that is more advanced and capable of enabling faster charging. There are other benefits as well such as improved efficiency and performance.
    It will be interesting to see if Kia EV4 gets the 400-volt or 800-volt electrical system. Assuming that Kia will be aiming to introduce the EV4 at an attractive price point, the 400-volt electrical system will be more suitable. Battery pack options for Kia EV4 include a 58.3 kWh and an 81.4 kWh unit. Base variants will have a single motor setup, generating 201 hp. Higher variants could get AWD option, enabled with a dual-motor setup.
    While this test vehicle has the sedan body style, Kia EV4 is also expected to get another variant with an upright hatchback rear format. This was evidenced with another test vehicle spotted earlier. Upon launch, Kia EV4 will rival Tesla Model 3.
    Source More

  • in

    New Yamaha R9 Launch Price USD 12.5K (Rs 10.5L) – India-Bound?

    New Yamaha R9Being the fully-faired version of MT-09, new Yamaha R9 comes with the same 890cc in-line 3-cylinder engine and a host of electronics
    Yamaha has been significantly overhauling its fully faired portfolio. The company just updated their YZF-R3 to MY25 with new design language. Along with that, Yamaha has lifted the veil off its new R9, ushering into a new era of supersport motorcycles. It comes with enhanced aerodynamics for exceptional track excursions.
    New Yamaha R9
    With the launch of Yamaha R9, the company has been quenching the thirst of supersport motorcycle enthusiasts. With an appetite for cornering speed, Yamaha R9 is set to blaze the tracks in a few markets internationally. In USA, Yamaha R9 has been launched at USD 12,499 which turns out to be Rs 10.5 lakh in today’s currency exchange rates.
    New Yamaha R9
    There are three colour options with R9 – Team Yamaha Blue, Matte Raven Black and Intensity White / Redline. The first two colourways offer similar and minimal graphics, while Intensity White / Redline has more flamboyant stickers. Also, only the Yamaha Team Blue gets Blue coloured alloy wheels, while other two get Black ones.
    With the CP3 powertrain and the potent Supersport chassis, Yamaha is bringing track-capable performance to the streets. Yamaha R9 features a Deltabox Gravity Cast aluminium frame. The company claims this chassis to be the lightest on any Yamaha supersport yet.
    New Yamaha R9
    With 50:50 weight distribution, Yamaha promises exceptional agility and Supersport handling that can be tamed by a multitude of riders across wider experience levels. Like other Yamaha YZF-R motorcycles, R9 also comes with the latest R-Series styling with M-shaped front duct, angled LED DRLs, among others.
    Yamaha R9 also gets functional aerodynamic winglets at the front like MotoGP vehicle. These are intended to smoothen air flow and add considerable downforce at the front to improve handling characteristic at higher speeds. There is a TFT colour display as part of its instrumentation with a host of features.
    New Yamaha R9
    Electronics and Engine Specs
    There is a new 6-axis IMU, enabling 9-level Traction Control, 3-level Slide Control, 3-level Lift Control and a Brake Control system. Other notable features include 4-level Power Delivery Mode, two-level Engine Brake Management, Variable Speed Limiter, Yamaha Ride Control, Back Slip Regulator, cruise control and Launch Control.
    Yamaha R9 gets the same 890cc DOHC 4V/cyl liquid cooled in-line 3-cylinder engine as MT-09 with with around 120 PS of peak power and 93 Nm of peak torque, mated to a 6-speed gearbox. 43mm KYB fully adjustable USD front forks, KYB adjustable rear mono-shock setup, dual 320 mm front discs with Brembo Stylema calipers, 17-inch alloy wheels wrapped with 120/70 front and 180/55 rear Bridgestone Battlax Hypersport tyres. More

  • in

    2025 Yamaha R3 Launch Price USD 5499 (Rs 4.62L) – New Design Language

    2025 Yamaha R3 LaunchWith 2025 Yamaha R3, the company has brought this motorcycle to modern design DNA, making it in line with other YZF-R and YZR-M bikes
    Team Blue is revving the hearts of motorcycling enthusiasts across the world with the launch of updated YZF-R3. This motorcycle was mong the last ones in YZF-R lineup to feature the older design DNA and has been ported to new generation R-Series styling inspired from the flagship YZR-M1 racing bike.
    2025 Yamaha R3
    In USA, Yamaha has launched the 2025 R3 and has thoroughly updated it where design is concerned. 2025 Yamaha R3 has been priced at USD 5,499 in USA, which translates to Rs 4.62 lakh with today’s currency exchange rates. There are three colours on offer – Team Yamaha Blue, Matte Stealth Black and Lunar White / Nebula Blue.
    2025 Yamaha R3
    We can see a new fascia featuring Yamaha’s newer R-Series design language. Aggressive new front fairing is the main change, while sleeker side panels and a sharper tail section are notable too. R3 now gets a single projector headlight flanked by quad element LED DRL signature, split in two parts.
    Raised tail section gets LED brake lights and turn indicators are LEDs, this time around. Team Yamaha Blue and Matte Stealth Black colours have slightly minimal decals on side body fairing where we see smaller R3 stickers. With Lunar White / Nebula Blue, Yamaha is offering larger R3 stickers and a Yamaha sticker below it.
    2025 Yamaha R3
    Also, Team Yamaha Blue is the only colourway where the company is offering Blue alloy wheels and Gold USD forks finish, while other two get Black at both areas. 2025 R3 comes with a new LCD instrument cluster with Blue backlighting.
    New Yamaha R3 Cluster
    It features extensive telemetry along with Bluetooth connectivity and Y-Connect app support. No navigation, though. Yamaha has also added a USB-A charging port, which could have been USB-C. The motorcycle promises 50:50 weight distribution for enhanced agility and offers rider a committed riding position to exploit all of its handling characteristics.
    New Yamaha R3 Fascia
    What else is new?
    The company has incorporated modern fuel injection system and a short muffler design for mass centralisation. The high-revving 321cc DOHC 4V liquid cooled in-line twin cylinder engine. Power and torque figures are around 41 bhp and 30 Nm, mated to a 6-speed gearbox and a slip and assist clutch for the first time.
    Sporty clip-on handlebars, USD telescopic front forks with 129.5 mm travel, preload adjustable rear monoshock with 124.5 mm travel, 298mm front single floating disc, 220 mm rear disc, dual channel ABS, 110/70-17 front and 140/70-17 rear Dunlop Sportmax tyres are some of the notable componentry. India launch is not confirmed yet. More

  • in

    2W Retail Sales Sept 2024 – Hero, Honda, TVS, Bajaj, RE, Ola

    Honda Activa : Image – Gyani EnoughThe 2 wheeler retail sales list saw a new leader in September 2024 with Honda at No.1 ahead of Hero MotoCorp by large numbers
    Two wheeler retail sales in September 2024, as reported by Federation of Automobile Dealers Associations (FADA), saw a severe decline. Sales fell to 12,04,259 units in the past month, down from 13,16,300 units sold in September 2023. It was also a 10.01% MoM de-growth over 13,38,237 units sold in August 2024. 2W H1 FY 25 sales however, grew by 9.08% to 85,66,532 units from 78,53,618 units sold in the same 6 month period of H1 FY24.
    2W Retail Sales in Sept 2024 – HMSI Leads
    Not only was the 2W segment in the negative but overall retail sales also dipped by 9.25% YoY with 2W, PV and CVs reporting lower sales by 8.51%, 18.81%, and 10.45% YoY, respectively. On the other hand, sales of 3W and tractors improved by 0.66% and 14.69% on a year on year basis. The automobile sector now pins its hopes on a revival of sorts with several new launches in various segments and the festive season while improved stock availability could also boost sales even further.
    Honda Motorcycle and Scooter India (HMSI) emerged as the No. 1 seller in September 2024. This was despite a YoY decline. Sales dipped to 3,33,927 units in the past month, down from 3,49,784 units sold in Sept 2023. Market share of the company also grew to 27.73% over 26.57% YoY.
    Hero sales fell to 2,71,390 units in Sept 2024, down from 3,52,254 units sold in the same month last year. Market share dipped from 26.76% held in Sept 2023 to 22.54% last month. As launch date nears, the company is actively testing the new Xpulse 210 adventure tourer. Hero HF Dawn is also on its test rounds though the exact timeline of launch is yet to be announced.
    2W Retail Sales Sept 2024
    TVS retail sales fell by a good 8,000 units to 2,21,257 units in Sept 2024 down from 2,29,382 units sold in Sept 2023. Last month, the company introduced the new Ronin Festive Edition with new colour schemes and several other design elements, setting itself apart from its standard model. TVS also showed off an improvement in market share to 18.37% despite lower sales.
    Bajaj Auto also saw lower retail sales in the past month down to 1,41,668 units from 1,49,633 units sold in Sept 2023. Suzuki on the other hand reported improvement in sales to 74,287 units from 73,837 units sold in Sept 2023. Royal Enfield sales fell to 57,504 units from 64,159 units on a YoY basis taking its market share down to 4.78% from 4.87%. Yamaha sales improved marginally to 50,065 units in Sept 2024 from 49,639 units sold in Sept 2023.
    Ola, Ather Post YoY Sales Growth in Sept 2024
    In the electric vehicle segment, Ola Electric has seen an improvement in retail sales to 24,679 units, up from 18,711 units sold in Sept 2023. Market share also grew to 20.05% from 1.42% YoY. Ather Energy, also posted a significant sales growth to 12,718 units in the past month from 7,195 units sold in the same month last year while the company plans to stir up festive sales with new promotions and benefits to the extent of Rs 25,000 across its 450X and 450 Apex e-scooters.
    Greaves retail sales dipped to 2,777 units in Sept 2024 from 3,613 units sold in Sept 2023 while Piaggio sales also fell to 2,562 units from 2,954 units on a YoY basis. Classic Legends also posted lower retail sales at 2,125 units last month over 2,483 units sold in Sept 2023. Bgauss Auto however, saw sales improve quite remarkably to 1,237 units in Sept 2024 from 935 units sold in the same month last year. Other 2W makers which also included EV manufacturers added 8,063 units to total retail sales, down from 11,722 units sold in Sept 2023. More