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    VW ID.Buzz Pickup Truck Rendered, Could Become a Reality

    Klaus Zyciora via Instagram

    Volkswagen chief designer Klaus Zyciora posted a rendering of an ID.Buzz pickup truck.Reuters also reports that VW is considering building such a vehicle in the U.S.The crew-cab pickup could have historical ties to prior Microbus “Doka” variants.VW has already committed to selling several versions of the ID.Buzz electric van: the yet-to-be-launched long-wheelbase “People” variant for America, plus the short-wheelbase, five-seat “People” and short-wheelbase “Cargo” panel van versions for Europe. But this won’t be the end of the road: Volkswagen has strongly hinted at a camper version, and brand aficionados will be happy to know that a crew-cab pickup is strongly considered. At least that’s what we take away from a posting on chief designer Klaus Zyciora’s Instagram profile, where he posted a rendering of such a model, accompanied by the question: “Should we take it to the next level?”

    Zyciora’s informal poll has been answered with a resounding “yes” from the community of his Instagram followers. And at the same time, a Reuters story claims that VW is mulling U.S. production of this pickup version, alongside the regular ID.Buzz.The rendering is not based on the new production model, but instead on the 2017 ID.Buzz concept, which was characterized by body-colored roof pillars. Should such a version come to market, it would likely adopt the “visor” look of the ID.Buzz production model. And the junction between the cab and the pickup bed could adapt a more conventional look.
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    A crew-cab bus would draw from a strong heritage: From the first generation of the VW bus onwards, the brand has always offered a “Doppelkabine” (short: “Doka”), more or less successfully integrated. We can imagine that fans would undoubtedly adopt this nickname for the new version, should it come to fruition.Interestingly, the retro-futuristic 2001 Microbus concept, which served as a strong inspiration for the ID.Buzz, was designed with a pickup version as well. But it never saw production.We’ll join the design community in encouraging the launch of this car. And we want to see more renderings of this concept on Zyciora’s IG page.
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    1991 Nissan Figaro is Our BaT Auction Pick of the Day

    • This 1991 Nissan Figaro is up for sale right now on Bring a Trailer with the auction set to end on May 2.• Designed with retro styling, a tiny 1.0-liter four-cylinder engine, and a retractable convertible top, the Figaro is a unique car from the Japanese domestic market.• This particular one has spent time in the UK and wears custom Firenze Red paint.In 1991, Nissan launched the Figaro in its home market of Japan, alongside two other retro-futuristic small cars—the Pao and the Be-1—as well as the snail-esque S-Cargo van. The Figaro is arguably the most glamorous of the quartet, as it incorporates scaled-down 1950s-era styling and a retractable convertible top. This one, which has been refurbished and repainted in Firenze Red Metallic paint, is being offered for sale on Bring a Trailer—which, like Car and Driver, is part of Hearst Autos.

    Bring a Trailer

    Although it’s a small, lightweight convertible, the Figaro is surely no Miata. Its tiny turbocharged 1.0-liter four-cylinder engine makes just 75 horsepower and drives the front wheels through a three-speed automatic transmission. This is a car for cruising and turning heads at Cars and Coffee meetups.

    Bring a Trailer

    The cream-colored leather is slightly worn and the convertible top, despite being replaced in 2021, has some nicks at the corners. The rear seat upholstery is cracking too, but overall the Figaro is in decent shape. Mechanically, the owner reports that the steering rack, a CV boot, and the spark plugs have recently been replaced, and an oil change and a brake fluid change were performed.

    Bring a Trailer

    The Figaro is relatively rare, and not just because it was sold solely in Japan. Only 20,000 were produced in total, and the car was in production for just a single model year. Originally, Nissan had planned to build just 8000 Figaros, but the car proved so popular that another 12,000 were made available. Prospective buyers had to enter a lottery for the chance to buy one.

    Bring a Trailer

    To grab this Figaro, all you need to do is be the high bidder. The auction ends May 2.
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    Bajaj Sales, Exports Breakup Mar 2022 – Pulsar, Dominar, Chetak, CT, Platina

    Bajaj Auto sales dipped in domestic market by 40.87 percent while exports improved 2.18 percent YoYBajaj Pulsar 200Bajaj Auto Limited has seen significant de-growth in domestic sales in the past month. Total sales (domestic + exports) stood at 2,48,116 units in March 2022 as compared to 3,16,426 units sold in March 2021. Domestic sales dipped 40.87 percent YoY to 1,03,292 units in March 2022 over 1,74,694 units sold in March 2021. Exports on the other hand exceeded domestic sales in the past month. Exports stood at 1,44,824 units, up 2.18 percent over 1,41,732 units shipped in March 2021.Bajaj Auto has the Pulsar, Platina, CT, Dominar and Avenger in its company lineup along with the Chetak electric scooter. Sales in domestic market last month saw each of these motorcycle models receive lower sales while sales of the Chetak e-scooter increase significantly. Bajaj Pulsar and Platina were at Nos. 5 and 6 on the list of best-selling two wheelers in FY2022.Bajaj Sales Breakup March 2022Bajaj Pulsar was the highest selling model with 67,339 units sold last month, down 21.70 percent over 85,999 units sold in March 2021. Pulsar commands a 65.19 percent share. In the Pulsar range, it was the Pulsar 125 and 150cc that received the most attention with 39,687 units and 18,044 units sold respectively. Pulsar 200cc sales stood at 7,077 units while there were 2,531 units of Pulsars 250cc sold last month. Bajaj Platina sales dipped 60.95 percent in March 2022 to 26,952 units. This was as against 69,025 units sold in March 2021 relating to a volume loss of 42,073 units while Platina holds a 26.09 percent share in the company lineup.Bajaj CT sales also suffered a YoY degrowth to 5,211 units, down 62.50 percent over 13,895 units sold in March 2021. Of the Avenger series, Bajaj Auto sold 1,680 units in the past month, down 58.18 percent over 4,017 units sold in the corresponding period of previous year. The Avenger saw the 200cc model more in demand with sales of 1,582 units over the 250cc of which 98 units were sold last month.Bajaj Sales Breakup March 2022Dominar sales also fell 33.81 percent YoY to 1,104 units down from 1,668 units sold in March 2021. There were 694 units of Dominar 250cc sold along with 410 units of Dominar 400cc. Chetak e-scooter sales on the other hand, increased 1017.78 percent to 1,006 units last month, over just 90 units sold in March 2021 thus leading to volume growth of 916 units.Bajaj Auto Limited has also introduced a price hike across all models from April 2022. Prices have been increased from Rs 819 to Rs 4,913 relating to a percentage increase of 1.22 to 3.14. The highest price increase is seen for the Dominar 400 which is now priced at Rs 2,22,386 as against earlier pricing of Rs 2,17,473.Bajaj Exports Breakup March 2022Exports of Bajaj Auto Limited ended on a positive note last month. In fact, exports exceeded domestic sales by 41,532 units. Two wheeler exports stood at 1,44,824 units in March 2022, up 2.18 percent over 1,42,732 units sold in March 2021. It was the 75-110cc bikes that commanded more attention in export markets.Bajaj Exports Breakup March 2022Bajaj Boxer commanded this list with 90,016 units shipped in March 2022, up 7.43 percent over 83,788 units sold in March 2021. The Boxer commands a 62.16 percent share and the Boxer 110cc saw sales of 75,264 units, up 11.70 percent over 67,380 units sold in March 2021. Boxer 125cc sales were at 6,368 units while Boxer 150cc sales dipped 31.19 percent to 8,384 units in March 2022.Pulsar exports dipped 13.74 percent to 22,648 units, down from 26,256 units sold in March 2021 relating to a 3,608 unit volume de-growth. Pulsar 200cc sales were at 9,618 units in March 2022, down 29.25 percent over 13,588 units shipped in March 2021, while Pulsar 125cc sales increased to 3,408 units, up 1.31 percent on a MoM basis.CT exports increased 15.14 percent to 16,368 units while Bajaj Discover and Platina exports fell 20.06 percent and 28.21 percent respectively to 10,616 units and 2,102 units in March 2022. Bajaj Dominar and Avenger saw increased demand in global markets. Dominar exports increased 114.45 percent to 2,672 units up from 1,928 units sold in March 2021 while there was a significant increase in exports of the Avenger by 2133.33 percent to 402 units, up from 18 units shipped in March 2021. More

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    Yamaha R15 Modified Into An Adventure Motorcycle – Render

    If an adventure tourer based on Yamaha R15 ever makes it to production, it will go up against Honda CB200X in the Indian marketYamaha R15 Adventure Motorcycle – RenderWhen it comes to entry-level sports bikes, Yamaha R15 invariably pops up in the mind of an enthusiast at first. Currently, in its fourth generation, this motorcycle is the perfect entry point for riders looking to perfect their track riding skills. The baby superbike received a generation upgrade six months ago and continues to generate decent monthly volume.What’s more fascinating is its underpinnings and powertrain that spawn across multiple models in Yamaha’s global lineup. It is available in a fully-faired sports bike form, a naked streetfighter form and a naked neo-retro roadster form along with a wide range of scooters.This makes us wonder if this platform and engine can be utilised for an entry-level adventure bike in future? At least Abin Design thinks so, who has created a digital rendering of an adventure sports bike based on R15. Images of this illustration are courtesy of the designer’s social media handles. It is clearly visible that this rendered design takes inspiration from R15.Yamaha R15 Adventure MotorcycleThe designer has given a lot of attention to small details. For starters, front end of this rendition is reminiscent of Honda CB200X with its aggressive front fascia featuring a sporty front cowl and compact wind protector. However, the single-pod LED headlamp flanked by sleek LED DRLs has been borrowed from the new-gen R15 V4. Creases and air vents on side fairing have also been inspired by the latest iteration of the sports bike.Yamaha R15 Adventure Motorcycle – RenderIt gets typical ADV highlights like a tall and wide handlebar, a sculpted fuel tank, a sleek rear cowl, a split-seat setup, semi-fairing on the sides and a raised tail section. The blacked-out elements including alloy wheels, underbelly protection, side panels and other internals provide a sporty appeal to the overall design. Semi-fairing comes with some sleek body graphics with R15 inscribed on it.This rendition of Yamaha R15 ADV has been rendered in two colour options- Red and Blue. Evidently, the designer has utilised an underbelly exhaust instead of side-on upswept exhaust canisters usually seen on contemporary ADVs. However, this iteration of Yamaha R15 has been termed as an adventure sports bike which means it is a sports tourer meant for munching long miles on tarmac instead of trail bashing on off-road conditions.Hardware & Powertrain SpecsIn this regard, R15 Adventure Sports has been equipped with road-biased slick tyres at both ends. Suspension duties are carried out by golden-coloured upside-down forks up front and a mono-shock absorber at the rear with preload adjustability. Braking duties are handled by single disc brakes at both ends aided by a dual-channel ABS as standard.Yamaha R15 Adventure Motorcycle – RenderPowering the Adventure Sports Tourer will be a familiar 155cc, single-cylinder, liquid-cooled motor with VVA technology. This engine pumps out 18.1 bhp and a peak torque of 14.2 Nm. Power is sent to the rear wheels via a six-speed gearbox that benefits from a slip and assist clutch.Source More

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    Royal Enfield 650 Modified With Dustbin Fairing By indiMotard

    Even though it may seem too heavy and slow, this monstrous custom Continental GT has already shared the podium at a racing eventRoyal Enfield 650 Modified by indiMotardLooks can be deceiving and a perfect example is this modified Continental GT 650 with dustbin fairing. This type of fairing was used several decades earlier for racing events. It was preferred, as it was believed to significantly reduce drag. However, due to the compromised balance and handling of such faired bikes, these were banned from racing in 1958.Now, around 70 decades later, the dustbin fairing has been resurrected by Bengaluru-based Greasehouse Customs and indiMotard. The idea was to strike a balance between looks and performance, which has been achieved with this customization project.The bike has received extensive changes including major performance upgrades. It has been nicknamed ‘Dunaali’, a double barrelled rifle long associated with power, influence and dominance in the Indian wild wild west.Continental GT dustbin fairing designDustbin fairings are called so owing to their resemblance to a large sized dustbin. This custom dustbin fairing on Continental GT appears to be an evolved version that is far more refined and aesthetically pleasing in comparison to its predecessors. The rounded front section bears a closer resemblance to the nose of an aircraft, a sub and even a Japanese bullet train.Royal Enfield 650 Modified by indiMotardMuch of the stock parts have been replaced with either custom built or aftermarket units. The bike utilizes a glossy finish all across. Several parts including the dustbin fairing and tank cover are made using carbon fibre. This not only looks great, but also helps reduce weight and add strength.Mechanical updatesThis customization project is not just a visual treat, but also involves major engine tweaks. While the stock Continental GT makes 47 hp of max power, this modified bike has been tuned to deliver 62.2 hp. Power delivery has been optimized for low revs as well.The engine gets a long list of changes including larger injectors, modified cylinder heads and use of high compression pistons from S&S Cycle. The engine was tuned with Race Dynamics’ Piggyback ECU and FuelX Autotune systems.As primary objective was to create the fastest Royal Enfield 650 drag motorcycle, a number of stock parts have been replaced with lighter units made from aluminium. It includes components like the machined clip-ons, swingarm, subframe and yokes with adjustable rake. The bike weighs 170 kg, which is significantly less than the 202 kg of stock Continental GT.Other key customizations include velocity stacks, customized two-into-one exhaust, quick shifter, Rekluse clutch, new grips, RCB brake master cylinder and UMA Racing quick throttle. Front suspension has been lowered and stiffened whereas rear stock units have been replaced with preload-adjustable YSS units.Customized Continental GT 650 has already proven its worth in terms of performance. In a recent drag race held in Bengaluru, the bike came third. It should be able to achieve even better results after further enhancements and fine tuning.Source More

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    2022 Kawasaki Ninja 300 Launch Price Rs 3.37 L – Three Colours

    Last major update for Kawasaki Ninja 300 was in March 2021, when it was upgraded to meet BS6 emission standards2022 Kawasaki Ninja 300One of the popular entry-level sports bikes in the country, Kawasaki Ninja 300 has been launched in a new avatar. While there were quite a few expectations from enthusiasts, Kawasaki has not gone for any major overhaul. Most of the updates are centred around cosmetic enhancements.2022 Kawasaki Ninja 300To keep things fresh, Kawasaki regularly introduces new colour options for its bikes. In its present form, Ninja 300 is available in colour options of Lime Green, Candy Lime Green and Ebony. In the 2022 Ninja 300, these same colour options are on offer, with updated body graphics.In terms of design, the bike remains the same as earlier. It borrows much of its styling from its larger capacity siblings such as Ninja 600, Ninja 1000SX and Ninja ZX-10R. Some of the key features include aggressive dual headlamps, floating-style windscreen, front cowl mounted compact rear view mirrors, sculpted fuel tank, sporty graphics, step-up seat, short tail section and upswept exhaust.Even though it belongs to the supersport range, Ninja 300 has relatively comfortable riding ergonomics. It can work for both urban commutes as well as long distance rides on highways. As per user reviews, the bike does not produce any uncomfortable vibrations even when driven at speeds of over 100-120 kmph.2022 Kawasaki Ninja 300One of the issues Kawasaki needs to look into is ground clearance. The existing model has ground clearance of 140 mm. While this may be fine for highways, it can be a bit problematic in city conditions when dealing with obstacles like potholes and speed breakers.Another thing that users want is an updated instrument console. Ninja 300 can also do better with LED lights and DRLs to go with it. The current model is offered with standard halogen units. Some users have also wished for a gear position indicator. It remains to be seen if any of these changes are included in updated Ninja 300.No performance updatesUpdated Kawasaki Ninja 300 continues using the same 296 cc engine as earlier. The liquid cooled, parallel twin, DOHC, 8-valve motor generates 39 PS of max power at 11,000 rpm and 26.1 Nm of peak torque at 10,000 rpm. Engine is mated to a 6-speed gearbox. Mileage is around 25-28 kmpl, based on the riding environment.2022 Kawasaki Ninja 300Ninja 300 is one of the few bikes in this segment to offer parallel twin motor. It is one of the key factors for the bike’s popularity. Folks like the bike’s impressive torque delivery and smooth performance at high speeds.Balance and handling are also pretty good at high speeds. Making it work are the 290mm and 220mm petal disc brakes and telescopic forks at front and gas-charged shock absorber at rear. Updated Ninja 300 will continue to rival the likes of KTM RC 390 and TVS Apache RR 310. More

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    2023 Toyota Supra: All the Details on Its New Manual Transmission

    The 2023 Toyota Supra will be available with a manual transmission.The six-speed manual gearbox will be offered for the 382-hp turbocharged 3.0-liter inline-six, and the base 2.0-liter turbo-four will remain automatic-only.The 2023 Supra will go on sale in the U.S. later this year.The moment we’ve been waiting for ever since the return of the Toyota Supra has now arrived: for 2023, the Supra will finally be available with a manual transmission. The six-speed gearbox will be offered only with the 382-hp turbocharged 3.0-liter inline-six and comes with a host of other modifications to the suspension and interior for the new model year.

    Because BMW does not currently offer the B58 inline-six—the variant that powers six-cylinder Supras—with a manual transmission in the U.S., we believe Toyota when it says it went to a great amount of trouble to engineer this transmission specifically for this car. The engine will produce the same output as it does when paired with the eight-speed automatic, but the manual receives a shorter final-drive ratio—3.46 versus 3.15 for the auto. It also has a rev-matching function that can be disabled.
    The stick will be offered on the 3.0 and 3.0 Premium models, along with an exclusive new special edition called the A91-MT. Only 500 units of this manual-only trim level will be offered in the U.S., and it’ll come in either matte white or grey. It has a brown leather interior that’s not available on any other Supra, and it also comes with an Alcantara shift knob, red brake calipers, red badging, red strut tower braces, and 19-inch wheels.Other changes for the manual car include recalibrated traction-control and stability-control programming and a rearranged center console that moves the infotainment controller knob and other buttons to accommodate the manual shifter. Toyota says the shift knob’s placement is meant to provide enough clearance between the shifter and the center stack.
    All 2023 Supras will receive revised tuning for the shocks and power steering system, plus a new feature that Toyota calls Hairpin+. It’s meant specifically for steep uphill hairpin turns and is said to permit a greater difference in wheelspin between the left and right rear tires.Toyota hasn’t said what the 2023 Supra with the manual transmission will cost, but did hint that it might carry a price premium by referring to the stick as an “option.” We’ll have to reserve final judgment until we can shift the Supra’s gearbox for ourselves, but we’d reckon it’ll be worth paying extra for.
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    TVS NTORQ XT Variant Teased – More Features, New Colour?

    Ntorq is already fully loaded with as many as 30 features across performance, tech, safety and comfort and convenienceNew TVS Ntorq TeaserApart from being outstanding in terms of technology and performance, TVS Ntorq is also preferred for its sporty design and styling. The scooter is offered in four variants, each with its own unique styling and colour options. There’s the standard model, a Race edition, Super Squad edition and Race XP variant. This range will be expanded soon to include an entirely new Ntorq variant.TVS NTORQ XT – new variantAs revealed in the teaser, the new variant could be referred to as XT. It could focus on things like an updated instrument console and some new tech features. Just like other Ntorq variants, this new variant will also have its own unique styling and colour options. Apart from these, most other things will be the same as existing models.TVS Ntorq new variant could be the top-spec variant. It will be accordingly priced, somewhere close to Rs 90k. Ntorq range starts with the standard model that retails for Rs 77,106 (drum) and Rs 81,561 (disc). Race edition is available at a starting price of Rs 85,161 whereas Super Squad edition costs Rs 87,661. Range topping Race XP variant is offered at Rs 89,211. All prices are ex-showroom, Delhi.Performance updates unlikelyPowering new Ntorq variant will be the same 124.8cc motor as existing variants. The single cylinder, air cooled unit generates 9.25 bhp of max power and 10.5 Nm of peak torque. The scooter has a top speed of 95 kmph and can achieve 0 to 60 kmph in 9 seconds.New TVS Ntorq Thor and SpiderMan Editions launchedIt’s the extensive range of tech features that make Ntorq all the more exciting. The scooter comes with a Bluetooth connected full digital console, offering 60 features. It is powered by TVS Smart Xonnect platform with features like calls and SMS alert, navigation assist, and phone signal and phone battery strength display.Users can also access features like last parked location assist. They can get reports and analytics about their rides to better understand their riding behaviour. There is also an option to share the same on social platforms.Other useful features offered with TVS Ntorq include engine kill switch, pass by switch, 20 litres under seat storage, USB charger cum light, external fuel fill, low fuel indicator LED, dual steering lock and high speed alert. In terms of safety, key features include 220 mm roto petal disc brakes and parking brake.TVS Ntorq SalesWith the new variant, Ntorq sales could get a further boost. In FY 2022, Ntorq was placed in the top 5 list of best-selling scooters in the country. Sales in FY 2022 were at 2,49,277 units, as compared to 2,51,491 units in FY 2021. Market share was at 6.75%.While YoY growth was negative for Ntorq in FY 2022, it was relatively the lowest as compared to other scooters with negative growth. Only Suzuki Access and Burgman had registered positive YoY growth in FY 2022. More