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      in Motor News

      Retractable Exhaust Tips Star in New Ford Patent

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      U.S. Patent and Trademark Office

      Don’t worry, the “where’s the problem, we have a solution” squad over at Ford has been busy, apparently, with figuring out a way to make your truck’s exhaust tips disappear.Well, at least retract back into the safety of the rear of the truck when you’re going off-roading, for example, in order to allow for better departure angles.The idea is called ETRM, for “exhaust tip retract module,” and it appears in an application Ford filed with the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office..It’s nuts what some people will hang off of their truck’s rear bumper. A new Ford patent shows that strange ideas can be a part of the entire back end of a truck. Say hello to the retractable exhaust tailpipe.

      While this kind of chrome turtle head has elicited its share of ridicule online, it’s not like having an exhaust tip that doesn’t stick out as far is a worthless idea. Especially when installed on a truck that is going to see some off-road time, thinking about departure angles is a worthwhile experience. Ford’s patent even says a system like this “reduces a probability of vehicle tailpipes contacting a ground surface in an off-road condition.” Ford calls this invention the “exhaust tip retract module,” or ETRM. The idea here, as Ford takes great pains to point out in its patent application, which was published earlier in October, is not just to extend the tailpipe, but to retract it to protect it. The ETRM “enables the exhaust tips to be retracted a certain length when in an off-road mode in order to take the exhaust tips out of the way and changing the limiting component to be a rear bumper instead of the tips,” the application reads, after talking about two other, similar patents for retractable exhaust tips that didn’t solve the off-road problem. Ford really thinks it’s solving a problem here.What are the benefits of a tailpipe that moves instead of just building the exhaust system so that the tips don’t stick out in the first place? you might ask. The obvious answer is that Ford knows how worried some truck drivers are about how they might appear to the outside world if their exhaust tips don’t poke out. Or, in Ford’s words, “the application of this system does not interfere with the looks, styling, or aesthetics of a vehicle.”Ford’s ETRM patent was filed in both the U.S. and Europe, according to CarBuzz, which first surfaced the application, so if Ford ever wants to build a real-world ETRM, it might do so on both markets. It is worth noting, though, that a lot of European cars have faux tailpipes due to insurance policies. If the actual tailpipes are too close to the rear bumper, a small rear-end accident can cost more if the exhaust system gets damaged.

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      Bajaj Sales, Exports Breakup Sep 2021 – Pulsar, Platina, Dominar, Avenger, CT100

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      New Bajaj Pulsar 200Bajaj Auto domestic sales dipped 19.98 percent YoY in September 2021 with exports up 1.72 percent
      Bajaj Auto Limited ranked at No. 4 among the leading two wheeler makers in terms of sales in September 2021. Next in order, following Hero, Honda and TVS, Bajaj Auto posted de-growth in terms of domestic sales while exports increased marginally.
      On the whole it was a bad month for the two wheeler segment. Every leading automaker has posted a dip in sales except for TVS Motor Company. Semiconductor chip shortage has impacted sales in the 150+ cc motorcycle segment but as inventories increase at company dealership a more lucrative festive season is on the cards.
      Bajaj Sales Breakup Sep 2021
      Bajaj Auto sold a total of 1,69,343 units in domestic markets last month. This was a 19.98 percent de-growth over 2,11,359 units sold in September 2020. Every bike in the company lineup posted lower YoY sales except for the Platina and Chetak. Bajaj Platina sales topped the domestic list with 82,559 units sold, up 48.77 percent over 55,496 units sold in September 2020.
      Bajaj Pulsar sales suffered last month, and was no longer the No 1 selling brand for the company. Pulsar registered sales of 57,974 units in the past month, down 43.55 percent over 1,02,698 units sold in September 2020. In the Pulsar range, it was the 125 that received most attention with 39,081 units sold while the Pulsar 150 saw sales to the extent of 11,082 units. Pulsar 200 sales stood at 3,703 units last month and of the Pulsar 220F the company sold 4,108 units. Bajaj also heralds in the new Pulsar 250. It will rival the Suzuki Gixxer 250 and Yamaha FZ25.
      Bajaj Sales Breakup Sep 2021
      Domestic sales of the Bajaj CT100 and Avenger dipped 42.68 percent and 81.45 percent respectively. Sales were down to 25,852 units and 1,090 units respectively as against 45,105 units and 5,877 units sold in the same month of the previous year.
      Bajaj Dominar sales also fell 35.30 percent to 1,226 units last month, down from 1,895 units sold in September 2020. On the other hand, Bajaj Chetak sales surged 122.92 percent to 642 units, up from 288 units sold in September 2020. The Bajaj Chetak recently underwent a price hike, its 3rd in 2021, making it the most expensive electric scooter on sale in India today.
      Bajaj Exports Breakup Sep 2021
      Bajaj Auto Limited reported exports at 1,82,697 units, up 1.72 percent over 1,79,609 units sold in September 2020. Buyers in global markets showed more preference towards the Boxer, of which 1,03,516 units were sold commanding a share of 56.66 percent. This was a 2.14 percent growth over 1,01,344 units shipped in September 2020. Bajaj Boxer 110cc demand dipped 0.76 percent to 82,420 units last month while the Boxer 125cc bike saw exports grow 73.13 percent to 5,824 percent. Boxer 150cc sales also increased in global markets by 2.28 percent to 15,272 units.
      Bajaj Exports Breakup Sep 2021
      Pulsar exports dipped 14.21 percent to 35,879 units, down from 41,821 units sold in September 2020 with a share of 19.64 percent. Pulsar 150-200cc (16,254 units) and Pulsar 125-150cc (14,064 units) were more in demand as compared to the Pulsar 110-125cc, of which the company shipped 5,002 units last month.
      The Bajaj Discover also saw an increase in YoY export, up 17.14 percent 18,199 units, over 15,536 units shipped in September 2020. Bajaj CT exports also increased significantly by 23.33 percent to 17,192 units over 13,940 units shipped in September 2020. Exports of the Platina, Dominar and Avenger too increased YoY.
      Avenger exports up 81.13 percent to 672 units over 371 units exported in September 2021. The Avenger 250cc saw more demand over the Avenger 200cc with 576 units of the former being exported over 96 units of its smaller capacity counterpart. More

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      in Bike

      Kawasaki Z650RS India Launch Price Rs 6.65 L – Two Colour Options

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      New Kawasaki Z650RS for IndiaPowering Kawasaki Z650RS will be the same parallel-twin engine as that of Ninja 650 and Z650
      2022 Kawasaki Z650RS was unveiled globally a few weeks back in September this year. Now, it has been launched in India at a starting price of Rs 6.65 lakh, ex-sh. At this price point, the Z650RS does not have any direct rivals in the segment. But it could be an option against the likes of Triumph Street Twin and Honda CB650R. Royal Enfield 650 twins can also be considered, but these are priced much lower at around Rs 3.5 lakh.
      Kawasaki Z650RS styling and features
      A number of styling bits have been borrowed from the larger capacity Z900RS. However, Z650RS comes across as more agile and manoeuvrable with its smaller tank and compact tail section. Indian version of the bike is largely the same as the one unveiled globally. Minor changes include a split grab rail that was spotted on a test mule in Mumbai.
      Focused on neo-retro styling, Kawasaki Z650RS has a classy feel to it. There aren’t any unnecessary flashy bits and yet the bike stands out just by the sheer brilliance of its timeless retro design. Some key features include round headlamp, retro themed instrument pods, circular mirrors and tear-drop shaped fuel tank.
      Other key features include single piece saddle, wire-spoke styled alloy wheels, and underbelly exhaust. A number of components such as engine, frame, and swingarm are blacked-out for a sportier look and feel.
      New Kawasaki Z650RS for India
      In international markets, Kawasaki Z650RS is available in colour options of Metallic Spark Black, Metallic Moondust Grey/Ebony and Candy Emerald Green. The green variant gets golden alloy wheels, making it the quintessential head turner on the streets. In India, it is offered only in 2 colour options of Candy Emerald Green and Metallic Moondust Gray.
      In terms of ergonomics, the bike has a comfortable, upright riding stance. Footpegs are centrally located and handlebar is ergonomically placed at just the right height. The compact fuel tank ensures that the rider’s legs can easily slide by its sides.
      Kawasaki Z650RS India Launch
      Powering the bike is a 649cc parallel-twin, liquid-cooled motor. It is capable of generating 67.3 bhp of max power at 8,000 rpm and 64 Nm of peak torque at 6,700 rpm. It is mated to a 6-speed gearbox. The bike is equipped with advanced tech such as assist and slipper clutch. It helps ensure smooth downshifts and reduces the effort required for level pulls. The bike’s under-engine muffler works to improve the bike’s performance by lowering the centre of gravity.
      Kawasaki Z650RS utilizes a Trellis frame made from high tensile steel. It has standard telescopic forks at front and monoshock rear suspension. Braking duties are performed by 300mm discs with two-piston callipers at front and single 220mm disc at rear. Dual-channel ABS is offered as standard. More

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      Yamaha R15S Homologated Ahead Of Launch – Cheaper Version Of R15 V4

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      Image – Bike Point By Mintu & RahulNew R15 V4 and R15M are costlier than their predecessor R15 V3 – To target wider segment of buyers, a cheaper R15S variant to launch soon
      With features like USD forks, quickshifter, traction control system, connectivity tech and new colour options, Yamaha R15 V4 and R15M are significantly better than the earlier V3 model. However, these updates have resulted in price hike of around Rs 10-20k. To ensure that the popular R15 nameplate remains accessible to a larger user base, Yamaha has decided to launch a new variant named R15S.
      Yamaha R15S details
      Yamaha has already filed application to register the new name. R15S is likely to be an affordable version that would appeal to users with limited budget. While it could have the same looks as R15 V4, some of the advanced features may be removed to reduce cost. R15S can also be described as a re-branded version of R15 V3.
      It is to note that Yamaha had used a similar strategy earlier also in case of R15 V2. The idea was essentially to launch a no-frills product that would work out cheaper than the standard model. Needs of users vary widely and not everyone may be looking for advanced features.
      In case of entry-level performance-oriented bikes like R15, a significant percentage of users comprise youngsters. Availability of an affordable version will allow Yamaha to put more options on the table for its customers.
      Yamaha R15S Homologated In India
      For R15S variant, Yamaha is likely to retain the same look and feel as that of new R15 V4. This is necessary, as users may not like the idea of buying something that looks similar to the old model. Things like design updates, USD forks, new colour options, graphics and other cosmetic enhancements are likely to be retained for R15S. However, for reducing costs, other features such as quickshifter, traction control, etc. could be removed.
      2021 Yamaha R15S engine
      It is expected that Yamaha R15S will be powered by the same engine as was offered with R15 V3. It makes slightly more power, as compared to new R15 V4 and R15M. New R15 bikes are powered by a 155cc, SOHC, liquid cooled, 4-valve motor. It is capable of generating 18.4 ps of max power at 10,000 rpm and 14.2 Nm of peak torque at 7,500 rpm. It is mated to a constant mesh, 6-speed transmission. In case of R15 V3, power and torque output is 18.6 bhp and 14.1 Nm.
      One of the long pending demands fulfilled with new R15 V4 is USD forks. In international markets, this feature was offered as standard. However, it is only now that it has been introduced in India. Yamaha has also added additional features such as a new fully digital LCD meter console.
      It displays a range of information such as speed, rpm, gear position, ride mode, phone battery level, app connectivity status, and traction control system status. Alerts about SMS, email and calls are also displayed on the screen. Connectivity features include parking location finder, malfunction notification, fuel consumption tracker and maintenance recommendations. More

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      Ather Electric Scooter OATS For Champions – In Response Rajiv Bajaj’s Comment

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      Ather Electric Scooter is backed by Hero MotoCorpRajiv Bajaj is known for expressing his thoughts and doesn’t seem to care if his words can lead to controversies
      On the occasion of new Pulsar 250cc launch, Rajiv Bajaj took the opportunity to target EV startups like Ola, Ather, Tork and Smart E (OATS). His primary accusation was that these startups are cash burn businesses whereas established players like Bajaj are cash flow businesses.
      He said that he would bet on BET, which stands for Bajaj, Enfield and TVS. Rajiv’s punchline was “Champions eat OATS for breakfast”. Here, OATS meant Ola Electric, Ather Energy, Tork Motors and SmartE – an obvious challenge to new EV startups.
      Rajiv Bajaj at Pulsar launch. Image – BloombergQuint
      Ather Electric Scooter OATS
      While Bajaj’s primary target was Ola Electric, it’s Ather that has responded first. In a witty comeback, Ather has posted a tweet that talks about launching a new line of products – ‘OATs for champions’.
      It comes with the promise of giving a quicker and smarter start to the day. The punchline ‘Recommended by experts’ takes a dig at Rahul Bajaj. The packet mentions – ‘for when you need that instant pick-up’, which refers to superior acceleration offered by electric two-wheelers.
      Ather’s reply to the OATS comment from Rajiv Bajaj
      Apart from his sarcastic remarks, Rajiv Bajaj targeted Ola for not delivering even a single piece till date. He said that making customers wait for deliveries is the way of the startups. In comparison, he said that established players like Bajaj thrive on a cash flow model. Talking about Bajaj strengths, Rajiv said the company is 75 years old and has overcome numerous challenges in its journey.
      He said champions like Bajaj, Enfield and TVS have always adapted to evolving market dynamics. They have successfully adapted on various fronts, be it cost, competition or new regulations. And they have capabilities to adapt again in the emerging EV ecosystem. He said that EV startups should not take established players lightly.
      EVs and ICE – the great divide
      Even though EV sales are still pretty low, EV companies are emerging as potential disruptors of the future. Rising fuel prices have worked in the favour of EV startups. Attractive subsidies offered by central and state governments have made EVs more accessible to the masses. However, there’s a lot to be done in terms of building battery charging and battery swapping infrastructure.
      Ola head joins the banter
      Rajiv Bajaj directly targeting companies like Ola may have a valid reason. It’s because EV manufacturers have accused traditional players for not doing enough to promote EV usage. Ola Electric founder Bhavish Aggarwal had said that established players continue to produce fossil fuel vehicles in great numbers. It is statements like these that may have prompted Rajiv Bajaj to push back.
      While the shift to EV ecosystem is inevitable, established players cannot do it overnight. They have millions invested in facilities that produce ICE-based two wheelers. It’s practically impossible for these companies to have the same ambitious EV goals as that of electric startups. On the other hand, companies like Ola can afford to go full steam in EV space. They don’t have to deal with the baggage of making the shift.
      Moral of the story is that friction between EV startups and established players will continue till a complete shift to electric is achieved. Hopefully, the fireworks will be limited to sarcastic remarks and not move into the realm of lawsuits and defamation cases. More

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      in Motor News

      2022 GMC Hummer EV Is a Neiman Marcus 2021 Fantasy Gift

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      Neiman Marcus and Barrett-Jackson have teamed up for a special edition 2022 GMC Hummer EV pickup truck for this year’s edition of the luxury retailer’s Fantasy Gifts list.Only one will be offered for sale, making it extra exclusive, and it features a custom interior designed by Barrett-Jackson CEO Craig Jackson; the price is an impressive $285,000.The lucky recipient will get free delivery of the vehicle to the location of their choice within the continental U.S., as well as several other experiences including a trip to the 2022 Scottsdale Barrett-Jackson auction event.Every year, More

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      Toyota Reveals More Details on bZ4x Electric Crossover

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      Toyota revealed specs for its new bZ4x electric crossover that will enter production in the middle of 2022. More U.S. details will be available next month. It uses a roughly 64.0-kWh battery pack and is available in either front- or all-wheel-drive configurations with up to 215 horsepower. We expect the bZ4X to have EPA range figures between 200 and 230 miles when it makes its way to the U.S. in 2022. Toyota’s new electric crossover, the bZ4x, will arrive in the U.S. in the middle of next year, and the Japanese automaker has released some global specs that give us an idea of what our version will offer. We expect most of these details will be similar when the U.S. version is unveiled in November. Seven more electric BZ (for Beyond Zero) models will follow by 2025, Toyota says.

      The bZ4x is similar in size to Toyota’s best-seller, the RAV4. It has a 6.3-inch longer wheelbase and is slightly longer and lower than the gas-powered crossover. It’s built on the e-TNGA electric vehicle platform that Toyota developed alongside Subaru, which will also underpin the upcoming Subaru Solterra. The photos of the bZ4x shown here are still of a prototype model, but we don’t expect the wacky styling to change much for the production model. The bZ4x uses a roughly 64.0-kWh lithium-ion battery pack, and the single-motor version provides front-wheel drive and 201 horsepower. A dual-motor, all-wheel-drive configuration has 215 horsepower. Toyota claims that all-wheel-drive models will reach 62 mph in 7.7 seconds. Based on the WLTP range targets Toyota released, we expect EPA range to come in at about 230 miles for the front-drive model and 200 for the all-wheel-drive variant. That would make it fall short of the Ford Mustang Mach-E (up to 305 miles of EPA-estimated range) and the Tesla Model Y (up to 326 miles). Toyota claims that on a 150-kW fast charger, the bZ4X will replenish 80 percent of its battery in 30 minutes. Solar panels on the roof will be available that Toyota says can replenish just over 1000 miles of driving range per year.

      Toyota

      A yoke-style steering wheel (pictured) will be available, similar to the one on the new Tesla Model S and X, but there’s a key difference on Toyota’s execution that makes it more palatable. The bZ4X limits the total rotation of the steering wheel to 150 degrees, using a steer-by-wire system to turn the wheels an appropriate amount based on the driver’s input so you never have to go hand-over-hand during tight maneuvering. Toyota’s new infotainment system, which uses voice controls, displays on a large center-mounted touchscreen, and Toyota says the car will improve over time through over-the-air updates. Production of the Toyota bZ4x is scheduled to start in the middle of 2022, so expect to see the new electric crossover at dealerships toward the end of the summer.
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      Honda Sales, Exports Breakup Sep 2021 – Activa, Dio, CB Shine, CB200X, CB350

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      Image – MS AutoVlogsHonda Unicorn 150 recorded the highest YoY growth of 1700 percent in exports – While Unicorn 160 registered highest decline in domestic sales
      Honda Motorcycles and Scooters India (HMSI) is the second-largest two-wheeler brand in India. However, like most other automakers in recent months, Honda has been facing a production slowdown thanks to a shortage in supply of semiconductor chips.
      The Japanese bikemaker was able to dispatch a total of 4,63,683 two-wheelers in September this year as opposed to 5,00,888 units sold during the same period last year. This led to a YoY decline of 7.43 percent. The sales chart was topped by Activa as usual with a total sales volume of 2,45,352 registered last month.
      Honda Sales Breakup Sep 2021 – Activa & Shine leading the way
      However, a YoY decline of almost 5 percent was recorded since the company sold 2,57,900 units of Activa during the same month last year. Activa was followed by CB Shine with a total registered volume of 1,42,386 units last month instead of 1,18,004 units sold in September last year. This led to a 20.66 percent YoY growth.
      Honda sold 34,557 units of Dio which recorded a YoY growth of 2.73 percent. Dream occupied the fourth spot with 15,210 units sold in September this year. During the same period last year, Honda sold 19,667 units of the 110cc motorcycle which has translated to a YoY decline of 22.66 percent.
      Honda Domestic Sales Sep 2021
      The OEM sold 11,213 units of Livo which was 5,681 units less than September 2020. This resulted in a 33.63 percent. A total of 11,213 units of Grazia were dispatched across the country which led to YoY growth of 8 percent.
      Honda launched CB350 retro motorcycle last year which has witnessed decent success. The bike recorded a sales volume of 2,995 last month. It was trailed by Unicorn 160 with 1,390 units which recorded massive YoY degrowth of 95.55 percent. Unicorn was closely followed by the brand’s latest addition CB200X with a registered volume of 1,387 units. Hornet 2.0, on which CB200X is based upon, raked in a volume of a mere 75 units.
      Honda Exports Sep 2021 – Dio, Navi, X-Blade Popular Overseas
      As far as exports are concerned, a total of 18,225 two-wheelers were shipped to overseas markets by Honda in September this year. During the same month last year, the company dispatched 25,978 units which resulted in a YoY decline of almost 30 percent. Dio was the highest dispatched two-wheeler with a total volume of 4,874 units shipped overseas.
      Honda Exports Sep 2021
      Last year, this figure stood at 3,807 units which led to YoY growth of 28 percent. Honda exported 3,450 units of the monkey bike Navi as opposed to 5,452 which resulted in a 36.72 percent YoY decline. The company exported 2,295 units of X-Blade which translated to YoY growth of 213.52 percent. Grazia recorded a volume of 1,319 units which led to YoY growth of 37.40 percent. More