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    Mahindra BE 6 and XEV 9e Lower Variants Spied En Route Showrooms

    Mahindra BE 6 and XEV 9e Lower Variants Spied
    Poised to be India’s highest-selling electric SUV brand, Mahindra Auto has launched BE 6 and XEV 9e in the country. These have already emerged as popular choices, offering people a taste of RWD fun along with a plethora of safety, features and eye-candy design. Mahindra is now the third highest-selling electric car maker in India.
    However, Mahindra has only commenced the deliveries of the top-spec Pack Three trim. There could be a significant boost in sales and volume once the mid-spec and base-spec trims also start deliveries. Now, lower variants of Mahindra BE 6 and XEV 9e have been spied en route showrooms ahead of deliveries. Let’s take a closer look.
    Strategy to boost sales?
    Mahindra has recently revealed that more than 75% of the bookings come from the top-spec Pack Three trims. Also, the footfall into the showrooms has not been able to convert into bookings concerning lower trims. That is because Pack Two and Pack One display units have not yet reached dealerships.
    Mahindra BE 6 and XEV 9e Lower Variants Spied
    These recent developments might be the company’s measured strategy to line up display units of Pack Two variants in the showrooms as the deliveries are nearing. This will help boost bookings of lower trims and boost overall volume for Mahindra. The company is considering launching larger 79 kWh battery pack variants with lower trims as well.
    BE 6 and XEV 9e Lower Variants
    How does one identify a lower variant of BE 6 and XEV 9e? We ask this because Mahindra has kept the equipment list for lower trims quite generous. They get large wheels (18-inch with BE 6 and 19-inch with XEV 9e) with stylish wheel covers, premium finish on the cladding, LED lighting all around and the same dominating appearance as top-spec trims.
    These recent spy shots are credited to automotive enthusiast Rahul Bhosale who spotted them at Pune-Nashik highway. They show lower trims of XEV 9e and BE 6. One main giveaway is the pixel-painted Black roof option, which is only limited to Pack Three and Pack Three Select trims. Pack Two, Pack One Above and base Pack One do not get this design element.
    Mahindra BE 6 and XEV 9e Lower Variants Spied
    The XEV 9e and BE 6 units spied recently do not feature this Black roof option, which could only mean that they are from a trim level below Pack Three Select, in the hierarchy. These are highly likely to be Pack Two, deliveries to which, are set to start in July 2025, after the deliveries of Pack Three Select start in June 2025. More

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    Honda CB650R E-Clutch Variant Teased – Launch Soon

    Honda Cb650R E-Clutch VariantAcross multiple global markets, the E-Clutch option is already available with Honda CB650R and its faired sibling CBR650R
    To unlock even more fun and engaging riding experiences, Honda will be introducing the E-Clutch with CB650R and CBR650R in India. The E-Clutch tech was first unveiled at the 2023 EICMA, making it the first of its kind to support both automatic and manual clutch operations. Similar technologies have been developed by other brands such as BMW Motorrad, KTM and Yamaha.
    Honda CB650R E-Clutch – How it works?
    With the E-Clutch, users need not use the clutch while starting or stopping the bike or when shifting gears. This unlocks a more hassle-free ride experience. Honda E-Clutch also allows riders the freedom to manually operate the clutch whenever they want. This is essentially like the best of both worlds, catering to the individual preferences of all riders.
    Honda E-Clutch setup adds approximately 2.8 kg extra weight. The standard clutch and transmission components are retained to allow manual operations. Various systems such as an Electronic Control Unit (ECU), actuators and sensors work together to operate the E-Clutch. At the time of starting the bike, the E-Clutch engages automatically with the throttle input to avoid engine stalls.
    Honda Cb650R E-Clutch Variant Teased
    During gear shifts, the E-Clutch engages and disengages automatically, ensuring smooth operations. While slowing the bike to a stop, the E-Clutch disengages automatically to prevent stalls. Honda CB650R E-Clutch benefits both new and experienced riders. With the E-Clutch, new riders no longer have to worry about engine stalls.
    Moreover, they can focus more on other operations such as throttle, steering and braking. In case of experienced riders, automatic clutch operation reduces fatigue, especially during slow-moving heavy traffic. In aggressive riding scenarios, the quick-shifter performance is enhanced with the E-Clutch. Users who need a tactile feel can choose manual mode whenever they want.
    Powertrain, specs
    Apart from the E-Clutch, there won’t be any other changes to Honda CB650R. Powering the bike is a 649cc, inline 4, liquid-cooled DOHC engine that generates 94 hp and 63 Nm of torque. It is mated to a 6-speed gearbox. Suspension setup comprises Showa SFF USD forks at front and a mono-shock damper with 10-stage adjustable preload at the rear. The bike has 17-inch wheels at both ends, wrapped in 120/70 front and 180/55 rear tyres.
    Honda Cb650R E-Clutch Variant
    Braking setup comprises a 310 mm x 4.5 mm double disc with a 4-piston calliper at front and a 240 mm x 5 mm single disc with single-piston calliper at the rear. The bike has a seat height of 810 mm and a ground clearance of 150 mm. Tech kit includes a 5-inch TFT instrument display with Bluetooth connectivity.
    Honda CB650R E-Clutch Price
    With the E-Clutch, Honda CB650R is expected to command a premium of around Rs 25k to Rs 30k. The standard model is available at a starting price of Rs 9.20 lakh. The faired sibling, CBR650R, will also witness a similar price hike with the E-Clutch update. The standard CBR650R is priced at Rs 9.99 lakh. More

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    MG Windsor Pro Bookings Open – First 8,000 Buyers Get Intro Prices

    MG Windsor Pro
    JSW MG Motor India is expanding their portfolio to take home the best-selling electric car manufacturer tag, which is currently in Tata Motors’ hands. Specifically, they’re expanding Windsor’s variant lineup to include a new and better-equipped Windsor Pro, which was launched recently.
    Only the first 8,000 customers will get the rather attractive introductory pricing offered with Windsor Pro. Bookings for this vehicle have commenced and buyers can reserve themselves a better-equipped version of India’s best-selling electric vehicle.
    MG Windsor Pro Bookings Open
    With the launch of Windsor Pro, JSW MG Motor India is on a mission to etch its name in India’s electric vehicle landscape. The company seems to have heard feedback from buyers and then improved upon what was already established as the country’s best-selling electric car for some time now.
    MG Windsor Pro Interiors
    Introductory price of Windsor Pro is Rs 17.49 lakh (Ex-sh) without any battery rental programs for the first 8,000 buyers. With BaaS (Battery as a Service) program, one can buy a Windsor Pro for Rs 12.49 lakh and Rs 4.5 per kilometre driven as battery rental fees. This has proved to be a game changer, differentiating MG from other EV makers operating in India.
    Windsor Pro is based on Essence Pro trim level and it gets three new colours – Celadon Blue, Glaze Red and Aurora Silver. Except for the new colours the only new change you can spot in a Windsor Pro from a standard Windsor is the new alloy wheel design and an ADAS badge on the tailgate. That is because MG Windsor Pro now comes with Level-2 ADAS suite.
    Added features
    Other notable changes with Windsor Pro are the addition of V2L (Vehicle to Load) and V2V (Vehicle to Vehicle) features, which were not on offer with standard Windsor. Then there’s the larger 52.9 kWh battery pack, with a max range increased to 449 km on a single charge. This is a welcome addition and will attract more buyers towards Windsor Pro.
    MG Windsor Pro Interiors
    The main change on the inside is that MG is offering a dual-tone Black and Ivory theme. Seat upholstery is now Ivory shade which might be hard to keep clean, but is much cooler than a Black seat. Ventilated front seats, 2,700 mm wheelbase, 135-degree reclining rear seats, electrically operated tailgate and more. More

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    Mahindra BE 6 and XEV 9e Lower Variants Might Get Larger 79kWh Battery

    Mahindra BE 6 and XEV 9eOne of India’s leading car manufacturers, Mahindra Auto, is charging (pun intended) into the country’s electric vehicle segment. Recently launched BE 6 and XEV 9e have yielded excellent results for the brand, but they can always achieve more. That’s probably the reason why Mahindra is considering expanding variant lineup of BE 6 and XEV 9e.
    These new variants will reportedly be based on lower trim levels of BE 6 and XEV 9e, but pack the larger 79 kWh battery pack that is currently only offered with the higher trim levels. That could change soon as the lower trims of BE 6 and XEV 9e might also get the option of the larger battery pack.
    BE 6 and XEV 9e Variants
    As things stand, Mahindra BE 6 and XEV 9e are offered in Pack One, Pack One Above, Pack Two, Pack Three Select and Pack Three trim levels. Deliveries of Pack Three have commenced, while bookings for all trim levels have been opened. Deliveries of Pack Three Select will start in June, Pack Two in July, Pack One Above and Pack One in August.
    Since deliveries began in March 2025, Mahindra has sold 6,300+ units of BE 6 and XEV 9e. As revealed by the company, more than 75% of total bookings are for the top-spec Pack Three trim. This may be because buyers who are smitten by BE 6 and XEV 9e know that only Pack Three deliveries have commenced.
    Mahindra BE 6 and XEV 9e Prices
    This lean in the bookings towards Pack Three could also be due to the fact that it is solely offered with the larger 79 kWh battery pack that promises up to 683 km or 500+ km in real world. A recent report reveals that customers have been asking for an extended range from larger 79 kWh battery pack in lower variants.
    New variants incoming?
    This shift in priority from features and creature comforts to driving range is really interesting. This might shift the perspectives for Mahindra which might consider launching a 79 kWh battery pack with lower trim levels to make a higher range accessible to a larger audience. This may also boost sales for the brand and position it as India’s best-selling EV brand, up from #3 position in April 2025.
    Since Pack Two and Pack One variants are not on display, it is proving rather tough to convert footfall into the showroom into bookings. This could change once deliveries of said trims start or display units start to reach showrooms. Once launched, 79 kWh battery variants of Pack One and Pack Two might bring more volumes for the brand than Pack Three is currently bringing.
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    BMW F 450 GS Spied In Karnataka – To Be Made By TVS?

    BMW F 450 GS Spied In KarnatakaWith the G 310 GS discontinued, the BMW F 450 GS becomes the new entry-level model in the brand’s highly celebrated GS family
    After it was showcased as a concept at the 2025 Bharat Mobility Expo, the BMW F 450 GS has been spotted on road tests in Karnataka state, India, for the first time. In an earlier statement, BMW had stated that the production version will be a close match to the near-production-ready concept. Let’s explore some of the key features seen with the test models.
    BMW F 450 GS Spied – Styling and features
    Spy shots show Kannada boards, confirming that the testing was being done in Karnataka. This suggests that TVS Motor might be testing these units and it aligns with the speculations that TVS is handling the production side of things. While heavily camouflaged, some of the signature features such as raised front fender, USD forks in golden finish and a tall windscreen are evident.
    BMW F 450 GS Spotted
    While the concept had a high-mounted exhaust, the test mules can be seen with an upswept exhaust. This placement is more practical as mounting the side panniers becomes easier. The test vehicle can also be seen with a top case. While the concept was presented with cross-wire-spoke wheels, the test mules can be seen with alloy wheels. These appear to be the same units as were used with the now discontinued G 310 GS.
    BMW had earlier mentioned that changes for the production model could include different options for the wheels. However, the 19-inch front and 17-inch rear wheel sizes might be the same across all options. The alloy wheels onboard these test mules look like they’re wrapped in Eurogrip Duratrail EB+ tyres.
    BMW F 450 GS Spotted
    BMW F 450 GS will have the same design DNA, as seen with the larger R 1300 GS. The concept model came with an exciting colour scheme, combining shades of blue, white and red. This is something similar to that of the Trophy version of the BMW R 1300 GS. One can expect similar colour options with the production model. These colours highlight the key characteristics of BMW GS bikes such as top-notch performance, quality and off-roading capabilities.
    BMW F 450 GS – Performance, specs
    With the F 450 GS, BMW has focused on creating a truly versatile machine that can seamlessly handle both road and off-road environments. Speculations suggest that the bike utilizes an entirely new twin-cylinder inline engine, unlocking 48 hp allowed for A2 class license holders across Europe. The engine is designed to be lightweight and compact with the use of special materials such as magnesium. The bike is expected to be offered with a 6-speed gearbox.
    BMW F 450 GS Spotted
    Chassis and other components are designed to meet the 175 kg minimum weight requirement of A2 class. Suspension setup may comprise fully-adjustable USD forks at front and a preload-adjustable mono-shock with load-dependent damping at the rear. Both ends have a single-disc brake setup and dual-channel ABS will be standard. Tech kit includes a 6.5-inch TFT with Bluetooth connectivity for navigation, calls and notifications.
    Expected rider aids include cornering ABS, configurable riding modes and traction control. BMW F 450 GS is expected to be launched in India later this year or in early 2026. Launch price could be around Rs 4 lakh to Rs 5 lakh. In India, the BMW F 450 GS will be locally made by TVS and will take on rivals such as KTM 390 Adventure and Royal Enfield Himalayan 450.
    BMW F 450 GS Spotted
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    TVS Confirms Norton Motorcycles India Launch By 2025 End

    Norton Motorcycles India Launch
    Five years after TVS Motor acquired the iconic British motorcycle brand, Norton Motorcycles, the company has deemed it fit to finally launch it in India. The company has revealed an estimate time frame for Norton Motorcycles to launch in India to rival other retro classic motorcycle brands like Royal Enfield, Triumph, Harley-Davidson, Jawa and Yezdi among others.
    Norton Motorcycles India Launch
    The iconic British motorcycle brand, Norton Motorcycles, has been a popular choice among buyers who are looking for a retro treat. Currently, the company offers three motorcycles – Commando 961, V4SV and V4CR. The prices for these motorcycles range from around Rs 20 lakh and Rs 50 lakh.
    Norton Commando 961
    Norton Motorcycles was acquired by TVS Motor around five years ago and it has been a highly anticipated launch since this acquirement. Now, TVS Motor has confirmed that Norton Motorcycles will be introduced in India by the end of the year 2025. Probably via the CBU route, now that India-UK free trade agreement is expected to bring automotive tariffs from 100% to 10%, under a quota.
    These three aforementioned motorcycles might launch initially through CBU route and serve as Halo products for Norton Motorcycles in India to set foot in the ground. These will be shipped into our market from the company’s facility in Solihull, UK. Soon, we should expect local manufacturing of smaller-capacity motorcycles to compete in the 350cc-450cc motorcycle segment.
    Norton V4CR
    What to expect?
    Speculations suggest that Norton Motorcycles is branching out its operations and is developing two new platforms. One of these will displace around 450cc (probably a single-cylinder unit) which should act as its most affordable offering. Second motorcycle could be a middle-weight offering that might displace around 650cc (probably a twin-cylinder unit).
    With the historic India-UK FTA (Free Trade Agreement), both nations are poised to boost trade and revenue. This FTA will benefit British automakers too as tariffs could be reduced to just 10% down from around 100%. While the small-capacity motorcycles look like a foggy future, the launch of Commando 961 or V4SV or V4CR or all or some by 2025 end is more likely.
    Norton V4SV
    TVS Motor acquired Norton Motorcycles for around Rs 153 Cr, which looks like a relatively small sum in the grand scheme of things. There has been a significant investment of around Rs 1,000 Cr from TVS and the roadmap is set to launch six new motorcycles by 2027 end. More

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    2025 Triumph Scrambler 400X Launched – New Colour, Slight Price Revision

    2025 Triumph Scrambler 400X
    Triumph’s 400 lineup has been gaining more and more popularity in the Indian market. The company is currently one of the notable players in the high-performance single-cylinder 350cc to 450cc motorcycle range. For 2025, Triumph has just updated the Scrambler 400X which now gets a new shade of Red along with a slight price revision. Let’s take a closer look.
    2025 Triumph Scrambler 400X Launched
    With the launch of Speed 400 and Scrambler 400X in India, Triumph Motorcycles entered a new price bracket that it never operated in before. With a strong value for money quotient, Speed 400 and Scrambler 400X quickly emerged as a desirable retro-styled motorcycle with a lot more performance than the popular 350cc offerings from Royal Enfield.
    The most expensive offering in the 400 range by Triumph, is Scrambler 400X. This motorcycle has been updated for MY25 version with a new colourway. Called Lava Red Satin, this new colourway looks a lot more appealing and premium. It replaces the current Volcanic Red and Phantom Black colourway.
    While it looks the same as images published by Triumph’s social media handles, it looks like it will get a matte finish. Hence the word Satin in its name. 2025 Triumph Scrambler 400X gets a slight price hike too. It is now priced at Rs 2.67 lakh (Ex-sh), which is a price increment of Rs 758 (Ex-sh).
    2025 Triumph Scrambler 400X
    Any other changes?
    Other colourways offered with Scrambler 400X are carried over. These include Matt Khaki Green / Fusion White, Pearl Metallic White / Phantom Black and Phantom Black / Silver Ice. Other than the new colour and revised price tag, there don’t seem to be any other changes with 2025 Scrambler 400X.
    It continues to be powered by a 398cc liquid-cooled DOHC 4V/cyl single-cylinder TR Series engine. This engine is capable of delivering 40 bhp of peak power and 37 Nm of peak torque, mated to a slipper clutch and a 6-speed gearbox. It rivals other Scrambler motorcycles like Royal Enfield’s Scram 440, Honda CB350 RS, Yezdi Scrambler and others.
    Also read – More off-road worthy Triumph Scrambler 400XC in the works More

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    Electric Car Sales April 2025 – MG, Mahindra Gained Grounds, Tata Declines

    MG Windsor EVMG Motor and Mahindra have registered significant gains in April 2025 EV sales, both in terms of overall volumes and YoY growth percentage
    As consumer confidence increases with better equipped products, EV sales are registering robust growth. Sales in April 2025 were at 12,330 units, as compared to 7,783 units in April 2024. YoY growth is an impressive 58%. This is better than the YoY growth in the previous two years. Demand for EVs can be seen across both entry-level and premium segments.
    Tata leads but loses market share
    Tata continues to lead the EV segment with sales of 4,461 units in April 2025. That’s a negative YoY growth of -14%. Tata sales in the corresponding period last year were at 5,172 units. Market share is at 36%, a significant drop from the 61% market share in the year-ago period. Tata EV sales could get a boost in the future with upcoming products such as Harrier EV, Sierra EV, Altroz EV and Avinya X. Current offerings include Nexon EV, Punch EV, Curvv EV, Tiago EV and Tigor EV.
    At number two in the list is MG Motor with sales of 3,488 units in April 2025. YoY growth is at 175%, as compared to 1,268 units sold in April last year. MG Motor EV market share is at 28%. The primary success story is the MG Windsor EV, which has already achieved a sales milestone of 20,000 units since launch in September 2024.
    The consumer-friendly BaaS ownership option is among the key drivers for Windsor EV sales. To boost sales further, MG has launched the MG Windsor Pro that comes with a larger battery pack. MG also offers the MG ZS EV and MG Comet EV, but majority sales are from Windsor EV.
    Electric Car Sales April 2025
    At number three in the EV segment is Mahindra, with sales of 3,002 units in April 2025. With new offerings, XEV 9e and BE 6, Mahindra has registered a huge jump from the 670 units (XUV400) sold in April last year. YoY growth is at 348%, with a market share of 24%. Key USPs of XEV 9e and BE 6 include their best-in-class range, advanced features and lifetime battery warranty for first owners. Bookings for these EVs have been significant, leading to a waiting period of up to 6 months.
    Hyundai, BYD EV sales
    Hyundai is fourth with sales of 686 units in April 2025. In percentage terms, YoY growth is the highest at 654%. Sales in the corresponding period last year was at 91 units. Hyundai EV portfolio in India comprises the Creta Electric and Ioniq 5. The sales boost has come primarily from Creta Electric. Hyundai now has a market share of 6% in India’s EV segment.
    At number 5th in the list is BYD, with sales of 350 units in April 2025. YoY growth is at 123%, as compared to 157 units sold in April last year. Market share is at 3%. Current offerings in India include Atto 3 and Sealion 7 SUVs, Seal sedan and eMax 7 MPV. Other carmakers such as Citroen (48 units) and Kia (31 units) have relatively fewer numbers in the EV space.
    Luxury EV sales – April 2025
    EV sales in the luxury segment were down from 257 units in April 2024 to 253 units in April 2025. That’s a negative YoY growth of -2%. BMW leads with sales of 128 units in April 2025. YoY growth is 117%, as compared to 59 units sold in April 2024. BMW’s market share in the luxury EV segment is at 51%.
    At the second spot is Mercedes, with sales of 81 EVs in April 2025. YoY growth is negative at -40%, as compared to 134 EVs sold in April last year. Market share is at 32%. At number three is Volvo, with sales of 35 EVs in April 2025. YoY growth is negative at -13%, as compared to 40 units sold in April last year. Market share is at 14%. EV sales of other luxury carmakers in April 2025 are – Porsche (4 units), Audi (3 units) and 1 each by Rolls-Royce and JLR. More