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    Hero Electric Dealers Demand Rs 500 Crore Pending Payments – Stage Protests At HQ

    Hero Electric DealersThe dealers claim that Hero Electric has not paid them in the past two years due to which outstanding payments have escalated to around Rs 500 croresThere is an ongoing battle between Hero Electric and the company dealers. The dealers complain that even as more than Rs 150 crores have been paid to the company in advance for supply of electric scooters, the company claims otherwise, ‘jo karna hai kar lijiye’ (you are free to take any recourse). In 2021, Hero Electric had stated that they aim to sell 10 lakh electric scooters / EVs per year.Hero Electric Dealers Protest at Gurugram HQOver 200 Hero Electric dealers have been protesting outside the Hero Electric headquarters in Gurugram, seeking dues that run into hundreds of crores. In the past year alone, the dealers have deposited over Rs 150 crores into the accounts of Hero Electric. This amount was taken in advance for the supply of the company’s range of electric scooters, however, neither were deliveries made nor were warranty for spare parts provided.Hero Electric dealers protesting at company HQ pic.twitter.com/jfoL3B3TTP— RushLane (@rushlane) August 9, 2024A letter written by the dealers to the Prime Minister seeks his intervention into their grievances. The pending payment currently amounts to Rs 500 crores while at the same time leaving around 50,000 customers in dire straits due to the warranty of spares issue not being sorted out.Hero Electric Dealers AngryThis disparity between the management and its dealerships have left many dealers at their wits end. Some have even attempted suicide. They are left facing the issue of depleting sales due to no batteries and chargers being supplied which are under warranty. Subsidies to be passed on to end-customers as per the FAME-II policy has also not been reimbursed till date. The dealers also have to face angry customers who have been attacking dealers due to no servicing being offered on their vehicles.Hero Electric dealers protest – Says company holding Rs 500 crores byu/UseSimilar3989 inindianbikesNishant Bansal, a Delhi-based dealer and the President of World Federation of ZE EV and Welfare Association has stated that dealers have been left with huge debts. They now seek immediate compensation and reimbursement from the company and the assurance that outstanding warranty and supply of spare parts will be addressed on a war footing. This issue has affected over 50,000 electric vehicles from Hero Electric, leaving scores of customers dissatisfied and angry.A point to be noted is that Delhi High Court along with Punjab and Haryana High Court have also admitted petitions by Hero Electric disputing actions of the Ministry of Heavy Industries and sought recovery of pending subsidies to the tune of over Rs 550 crore since 2021.Hero Electric Management Denies AllegationsIn response to the above contention from company dealers, Hero Electric held a meeting with the dealers at the company headquarters in Gurugram, but refused to pay even a part of the outstanding dues, according to Bansal. He also stated that when urged to pay at least a part of the dues, the management refused, stating ‘jo karna hai kar lijiye’ (you are free to take any recourse). The company claimed that these claims of Rs 500 crore pending amounts is false and mischievous.A spokesperson at Hero Electric stated “Dealers have separate agreements with the company, based on their sales estimates. Production shutdown for the last nine months has caused delays; however, the company has already started production, and dispatch of vehicles has already commenced with a commitment to the dealers to resolve open issues by December 2024”. More

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    2024 TVS Ntorq 125 Updated With New Colours – Black Edition Launched

    2024 TVS Ntorq 125TVS Motor Company Introduces Exciting New Colour Options for TVS NTORQ LineupTVS has launched new colour variants for the Ntorq 125 and the Race XP series. This move aims to cater to diverse consumer preferences, combining style with performance. The new colours are – Turquoise, Harlequin Blue, and Nardo Grey. These additions reflect the growing trend towards minimalist and modern designs.2024 TVS Ntorq Updated – New ColoursMeanwhile, the TVS NTORQ Race XP, aimed at thrill-seekers, introduces a matte black special edition, featuring a mix of matte and glossy piano black textures, enhancing its edgy appeal. Complementing the stylish new colours, the TVS NTORQ 125 boasts a robust 124.8 cc, three-valve engine, delivering 9.5 PS at 7,000 RPM and 10.6 Nm of torque at 5,500 RPM. The scooter is equipped with several practical enhancements, including Bluetooth connectivity, a fully digital display, dual ride modes, and a signature LED headlamp, ensuring an exceptional riding experience.2024 TVS Ntorq 125 – Black EditionThe TVS NTORQ Race XP edition, built for ultimate adventure, is powered by a 124.8 cc three-valve engine that produces an impressive 10.2 PS at 7,000 RPM and 10.9 Nm of torque at 5,500 RPM, making it the most powerful scooter in its class. The scooters feature an Automatic Centrifugal Clutch, enabling smooth and effortless acceleration, with the NTORQ 125 achieving a 0-60 km/h sprint in just 8.9 seconds.2024 TVS Ntorq Key HighlightsPricing and SpecsThe new variants of the TVS NTORQ 125 and TVS NTORQ Race XP are now available at authorized TVS Motor Company dealerships across India, starting at Rs 86,871 (Ex-showroom Delhi) for the NTORQ 125 and Rs 97,501 (Ex-showroom Delhi) for the Race XP.2024 TVS Ntorq 125In terms of dimensions, both models measure 1861 mm in length, 710 mm in width, and 1164 mm in height, with a wheelbase of 1285 mm and a ground clearance of 155 mm, providing stability and comfort on various terrains. Ntorq has a kerb weight of 111 kg, making them easy to handle and manoeuvre.2024 TVS Ntorq 125For suspension, the front features Telescopic Suspension with Hydraulic Dampers, while the rear is equipped with a Coil Spring with Hydraulic Dampers, ensuring a smooth ride even on rough roads. The scooters ride on tubeless tires, with a 100/80-12 tire at the front and a 110/80-12 tire at the rear, providing excellent grip and stability.Braking is managed by a 220 mm front disc with Synchronized Braking Technology (SBT) or a 130 mm drum with SBT, along with a 130 mm rear drum brake, offering reliable and efficient stopping power. The fuel tank capacity is 5.8 liters, allowing for extended rides without frequent refuelling.2024 TVS Ntorq 125Mr. Aniruddha Haldar, Senior Vice President, Marketing – Scooters, Commuter Motorcycles & Corporate Brand, TVS Motor Company, said, “At TVS Motor, it is our endeavour to provide a platform for self-expression to our customers. The TVS NTORQ 125 and TVS NTORQ Race XP exemplify our commitment to this vision. The new striking colour variants showcase a modern approach to scooter design, seamlessly combining excitement with self-expression.” More

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    Tata Nexon EV Discounts Increased To Rs 1.8 Lakh – A Day After Curvv EV Launch

    Image – JayarajA day after Tata Motors launched Curvv EV at a starting price of Rs 17.49 lakh, they have increased discounts on the Nexon EVTata Passenger Electric Mobility Ltd. (TPEML) has introduced a series of discounts and special benefits on its range of electric vehicles through the month of August 2024. These discounts follow the special pricing being offered on the company’s ICE models.Tata EV Green Bonus August 2024 – Tiago, PunchDiscounts and benefits on the Tiago EV, Punch EV and Nexon EV range from Rs 10,000 to Rs 1.80 lakh depending on model and variant and are valid from August 7-31, 2024.Tata EV Discounts Aug 2024 – Tiago, Punch, NexonStarting with the Tata Tiago, currently the most affordable EV on offer from Tata Motors, the XE and XT mid-range models, green bonus benefits are at Rs 10,000 for MY24 models. This extends to Rs 50,000 on the Tiago EV XY long range. Tiago XZ+ 3.3 kW receives a Rs 40,000 green bonus while the Tiago EV 7.2 kW along with XZ+ Teck Lux variants can be handed a green benefit of Rs 25,000. For MY23 Tiago EV the green bonus is at Rs 15,000 over and above the MY24 bonus and is inclusive of all taxes and GST.The green bonus also being offered across the Punch EV range is at Rs 10,000 for the 3.3 kW mid-range variant and at Rs 30,000 for the 3.3 kW and 7.2 kW long range trims. Tata Punch in the sub 4m SUV segment, available in both ICE (Petrol and CNG) and EV versions and recently crossed the 4 lakh sales milestone, a feat achieved in 34 months of launch.Tata Nexon EV discounts increased a day after Curvv EV was launchedTata EV Green Bonus August 2024 – NexonTata Nexon EV MY24 range is also a part of these green bonus discounts. Starting with the Nexon 3.0 mid-range Creative+ the benefits are at Rs 20,000. Buyers of the Fearless and Fearless+ variant can avail of benefits upto Rs 1,00,000 while the Fearless +S is now cheaper by Rs 1,10,000.The Green bonus on Tata Nexon 3.0 EV higher trims, that include the Empowered and across all variants of the Fearless Long Range, the benefits extend upto Rs 1,20,000. The highest green bonus is being offered with the Nexon 3.0 7.2 kW Empowered + and Dark Empowered + which is at Rs 1,80,000. For MY23 range of Tata Nexon, these benefits are at Rs 25,0000 over and above that offered for MY24 models.With this aggressive pricing for Nexon EV, Tata Motors is making sure that there is not much cannibalization within their own EV range. Especially after the launch of new Tata Curvv EV yesterday, at an aggressive price tag of Rs 17.49 lakh, ex-sh. More

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    Bajaj To Launch 2 New Triumph 400 Motorcycles Before Diwali 2024

    Triumph Speedmaster 400 renderWhile one of the 2 new Triumph 400 motorcycles is Thruxton 400, second model could be Street 400, Daytona 400 or Speedmaster 400The strategic partnership between Bajaj Auto and Triumph has resulted in the new 400 platform. Based on this platform, Triumph has launched two new single-cylinder affordable motorcycles – Speed 400 and Scrambler 400X. Now, the Bajaj-Triumph duo is expanding the 400 lineup to incorporate two new motorcycles. Let’s take a look.2 New Triumph 400 MotorcyclesFor a very long time, Triumph stayed as a premium brand. Even their most affordable model would come off as expensive for general consensus. That was changed with the new Speed 400 and Scrambler 400X, offering Triumph badge at a much more affordable cost. Thus opening a portal for a vast majority of motorcycling enthusiasts.Triumph Thruxton 400 bikini fairingThis portal is now being expanded beyond Speed 400 and Scrambler 400X. As per a recent report by CNBC-TV18, Triumph is on the verge of launching two new motorcycles based on this affordable 400 platform. They will be based on the same chassis and be powered by the same 398.15cc single-cylinder engine.As per this report, the new incoming motorcycles will feature an updated design. Also, they will reportedly come with new price points that will boost sales in the ballpark of 10,000 units per month. People in the know have told CNBC-TV18 Bajaj will have the production capacity to manufacture 10,000 Triumph motorcycles by October 2024.Triumph Thruxton 400 renderWhat can we expect?For starters, Triumph has commenced testing of Thruxton 400 which might be one of the two upcoming 400cc motorcycles. This is a semi-faired and sportier version of Speed 400. Triumph is going for a retro semi-faired cafe racer look with this motorcycle, inspired from Triumph Thruxton R design.As seen in spy shots, it gets design highlights like round headlight, fin-like elements flanking the headlight, bar-end mirrors, a clear windscreen and more. Alloy wheels, fuel tank, main frame, sub frame, seat, and other componentry looked identical to Speed 400.The main mystery is around Triumph’s second upcoming 400cc motorcycle. There have not been any spy shots regarding this and we could only speculate what it might emerge as. There is a possibility of it being a Speedmaster 400, a cruiser with a long wheelbase based on Speed 400 design.Another possibility is a 400cc Street motorcycle with a significantly wilder design than current retro-oriented 400cc motorcycles. Imagine the looks of a Street Triple with its bug-eye fascia with a 400cc engine to take on KTM 390 Duke. There might be a Daytone 400 too, a fully faired sporty 400cc offering to rival KTM RC 390. More information will be revealed in the future.Source More

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    Supercar Blondie features an Indian automobile brand for the first time!

    Supercar Blondie testing Ultraviolette F77 Mach 2Designed by experts from the aviation industry, the Ultraviolette F77 Mach 2 is the world’s most advanced electric motorcycle.The Supercar Blondie Test – With its advanced capabilities, Ultraviolette F77 Mach 2 was recently evaluated by SuperCar Blondie. Arguably the biggest auto influencer in the world, SuperCar Blondie has presented some exceptional cars and motorcycles to its viewers.Ultraviolette F77 Mach 2 Electric Motorcycle – Racing against a JetWhen reviewing the Ultraviolette F77 Mach 2, the motorcycle was put up against an RC jet in a drag race. While the RC jet has speeds of over 300 km in air, this contest was limited to the runway. With the Ballistic mode on, Ultraviolette F77 Mach 2 scored a win. Even though the race was neck and neck demonstrating the top notch acceleration of the motorcycle to keep up with the nimble and quick jet that runs on aviation fuel.Ultraviolette F77 Mach 2 Electric Motorcycle Submerged In The Deepest Man-made Pool in the worldUnderwater Feat – In a world-first, the F77 Mach 2 was submerged 20 meters underwater at Deep Dive Dubai, the world’s largest and deepest man-made pool. This incredible stunt highlights the motorcycle’s engineering prowess and build quality. The bike now holds a place of honour underwater, accessible to all visitors at the Dubai Dive Centre.[embedded content]Ultraviolette F77 Mach 2 – Specs, rangeDesigned for folks who prioritize performance and style, the Ultraviolette F77 Mach 2 utilizes cutting-edge technology and innovation. The F77 Mach 2 electric motorcycle has a 7.1 kWh battery pack. Power and torque output is 36.2 hp and 90 Nm. In comparison, the top-spec F77 Mach 2 Recon variant has a 10.3 kWh battery pack. It delivers 40.2 hp and 100 Nm. Both variants have a top speed of 155 km/H. The Recon variant can achieve 0 to 60 km/H in just 2.8 seconds, while the standard variant does it in 2.9 seconds.Ultraviolette F77 Mach 2 Electric Motorcycle Towing 15,000 KgAs per IDC standards, Ultraviolette F77 Mach 2 has a 211 km range. The Recon variant has a higher range of 323 km. Range will depend on the mode selected. In Glide mode, the F77 Mach 2 Recon offers a range of 266 km. In Combat and Ballistic mode, the range is 209 km and 186 km, respectively. Users can enhance the range by using the regen braking system. F77 Mach 2 has 10 levels of regenerative braking.Supercar Blondie impressed with made in India Ultraviolette F77 Mach 2Using a standard charger, 20% to 80% can be achieved in 3 hours. The Recon variant takes 5 hours. Charging is much faster when using the Boost charger or a 12 kW DC fast charger. Ultraviolette F77 Mach 2 utilizes a steel trellis frame, with 41 mm USD forks and a monoshock rear suspension. Braking setup comprises 320 mm front and 230 mm rear disc brakes.Ultraviolette F77 Mach 2 Electric Motorcycle Is Now Permanently Placed In The World’s Deepest Man Made PoolAdvanced safety featuresUltraviolette F77 Mach 2 is equipped with a comprehensive range of safety features. It includes auto dimming LED headlight, side stand sensor, traction control, hill hold, dual-channel ABS and dynamic stability control (DSC). Safety is also improved with features such as tyre pressure monitoring system, Delta Watch, Lockdown, anti-collision warning system and crash alert. The battery pack comes with a patented 5-level safety system. It’s the only battery pack in India to be equipped with cell level fuse technology.Made in India Ultraviolette F77 Mach 2 Electric MotorcycleMaking in India, for the worldEngineered by experts from the aviation industry, this high-performance electric motorcycle is not just for Indian roads but is set to make waves globally. Ultraviolette F77 Mach 2 will be the first Indian electric motorcycle to be launched in Europe soon. With capabilities to establish a global footprint, the Ultraviolette F77 Mach 2 can be described as the ‘Tesla of India’. More

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    Mahindra BE.05 Spied Next To Dzire – Could Be A Sub-4m-SUV

    Mahindra BE.05 Electric SUVAmong Mahindra’s BE range of electric cars, the BE.05 will be the smallest in size and have the lowest pricingMahindra has revealed 5 new electric SUVs, based on the born-electric INGLO platform. These are broadly classified into XUV and BE range. Test mules have been spotted frequently in recent months.Mahindra BE.05 spotted next to DzireLatest spy shots reveal interesting details about the size of BE.05. In its concept form, BE.05 was presented as a 4,370 mm long SUV. With that size, BE.05 is slotted into the compact SUV segment. But in this recent sighting, BE.05 can be seen alongside a Maruti Dzire sedan that is 3,995 mm in length. While BE.05 appears taller and has larger alloy wheels, the length seems to be almost the same as Dzire.Mahindra BE.05 Electric SUVIt’s difficult to arrive at a definitive conclusion, since images are known to trick the mind via optical illusion. A difference of 37 cm can be tough to identify, especially when the image has been taken from a distance. Camera angle can easily alter the perception of size. If one car is slightly angled or positioned in a way that affects visual comparison, it could skew the apparent size difference.Dimensional details of the production-spec BE.05 are not available at this point of time. In other aspects such as design and styling and equipment list, Mahindra has closely matched the features seen with the concept model.Mahindra BE.05 Electric SUVTop-spec variants of BE.05 have quirky C-shaped LED DRLs, sculpted body panelling, squared-off wheel arches and a coupe-like sloping roofline. The design at the rear also focuses on C-shaped light signatures.Mahindra BE.05 Electric SUVMahindra BE.05 interiorsWith the cockpit space clearly segmented in the middle, BE.05 promises a distinct cabin experience for the driver and front passenger. Most of the features seen with the concept are available with the production version. Some of the key highlights include a hexagonal steering wheel and integrated infotainment and instrument screens. Fabric upholstery has been used, most likely made from recyclable materials.Centre console has a circular dial that is likely for terrain modes or drive modes. A big gear selector and electronic parking brake will also be there on the centre console. Digital sliders will be available to control volume, brightness and sunroof. Test mules have confirmed the presence of ventilated seats. Bronze highlights have been used liberally all across the cockpit section.Mahindra BE.05 Electric SUVMahindra BE.05 – Specs, rangeBE.05 is expected to get a battery pack of around 60 kWh capacity. While base variants will have RWD, top-spec variants could deliver a more exhilarating performance with an all-wheel drive setup. Mahindra had revealed that SUVs based on the INGLO platform will be able to achieve 0 to 100 km/h in just around 5-6 seconds. INGLO-based SUVs will also offer class-leading range. Top-variants of BE.05 could have a range of around 450 km. Enhanced aerodynamics and advanced regen system will help optimize range. More

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    Updated Royal Enfield Bullet 350, Meteor 350 Launch After Classic 350 Facelift

    Royal Enfield Bullet 350With the updated Royal Enfield Bullet 350 and Meteor 350, we can expect more features as standard, similar to Classic 350 faceliftRoyal Enfield dominates the sub-500cc motorcycle segment with products like Classic 350, Hunter 350, Bullet 350 and Meteor 350. An updated version of Classic 350 will be launched on 12th August. After that, Royal Enfield is also expected to introduce the Bullet 350 facelift and Meteor 350 facelift.Updated Royal Enfield Bullet 350, Meteor 350A variant rejig is likely for the facelift versions of Bullet 350 and Meteor 350. New colour options could be introduced as well. LED tail lamp and pilot lamp can be made standard for all variants of Meteor 350 facelift. Meteor 350 already offers LED headlamps, which will be carried forward.Bullet 350 facelift will have relatively fewer changes in comparison to Meteor 350 and Classic 350 facelifts. The new Bullet 350 is just around a year old, as it was launched in September 2023. It was the last 350cc Royal Enfield bike to be upgraded with the new engine and chassis.It remains to be seen if some new tech features are introduced with Bullet 350 facelift and Meteor 350 facelift. In the traditional sense, Royal Enfield bikes are preferred more for their dominating road presence, robust performance and powerful exhaust note. However, as consumer preferences are evolving in favour of advanced tech features, there can be a possibility for such upgrades.Royal Enfield Meteor 350Existing Bullet 350 has a fairly basic tech setup, as evident with the digi-analogue instrument console. This new instrument console was part of the updates introduced with the new-gen Bullet 350 last year. It is unlikely that it will witness any major changes. Bullet 350 is also equipped with a USB port.Possibility of new tech features are more with the Meteor 350 that caters to a diverse set of users. It includes a large section of the younger generation. In its current form, Meteor 350 is equipped with a retro-inspired, digi-analogue instrument panel. There’s a floating LCD screen and built-in Tripper navigation. A USB charging port is available under the clutch lever. With the Royal Enfield App, users can access a lot more features including call alerts on the Tripper.No Major mechanical updatesBullet 350 facelift and Meteor 350 facelift will continue using the 349cc single cylinder, air-oil cooled engine. It churns out 20.2 bhp and 27 Nm, and is mated to a 5-speed constant mesh gearbox. Suspension and braking systems will also be carried forward. Bullet 350 has 41 mm telescopic forks at front and twin tube emulsion shock absorbers at rear with 6-step adjustable preload.Royal Enfield Bullet 350Braking setup comprises 300 mm and 270 mm disc brakes at front and rear, respectively. Meteor 350 has the same configuration for the suspension and braking systems. Both bikes are offered with dual-channel ABS. While Bullet 350 has spoke wheels with tube-type tyres, Meteor 350 comes with alloy wheels and tubeless tyres, depending on variants.Powertrains for both the motorcycles will remain the same. Based on the overall quantum of updates, prices could be increased slightly for Bullet 350 facelift and Meteor 350 facelift. These are currently available at a starting price of Rs 1.74 lakh and Rs 2.06 lakh, respectively. More

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    Ola Electric Motorcycle Teased Again – Will Debut On August 15th

    Ola Electric Motorcycle TeasedWhen launched, Ola electric motorcycle will compete with rival offerings from the likes of Oben, Revolt, Tork and other OEMsOla Electric has emerged as India’s best-selling electric 2W manufacturer by quite some margin. The company had always maintained that they would branch out into more genres like electric cars, electric motorcycles and even electric rickshaws. Ola has showcased four electric motorcycle concepts too.Fast forwarding to August 2024, Ola has been teasing its upcoming electric motorcycle. The company has a habit of unveiling new and upcoming products and services on August 15th, India’s Independence Day. This year, the spotlight is on Ola’s electric motorcycle. Let’s take a look.Upcoming Ola Motorcycle TeasedOla Electric Motorcycle TeasedIndian electric scooters and motorcycle segment has emerged as a lucrative option for many automakers. Up until now, there has been a major uproar in electric scooters with many OEMs diving into it. Now, the focus seems to be shifting to electric motorcycles.CEO of Ola Electric, Bhavish Aggarwal, recently teased an electric motorcycle. He took a short test ride of this motorcycle and posted the same on social media. Very little was divulged in that short video. The new teaser, however, sheds some light on what we can expect from Ola’s upcoming motorcycle.Ola Cyber Racer Top VariantFor starters, Ola Electric has only teased this motorcycle from the front-top section. We can see the twin projector LED headlights, similar to S1 electric scooter range. Right within this headlight assembly, above projector headlights, there is a single-piece sleek horizontal LED bar that will act as bike’s DRL (Daytime Running Light).Above the headlights, there seems to be a headlight cowl or some sort of short windscreen. From this brief teaser, it looks like Ola is developing a street naked motorcycle. There are muscular tank shrouds that are accentuated to lend an aggressive stance. Handlebar looks like it is a single-piece unit and is positioned very upright.Ola Cyber Racer Mid VariantWhat to expect?Not a lot is known about Ola electric motorcycle teased, but it will be unveiled on August 15th. It is expected to recreate the same magic as S1 scooters did in scooter body style. Comparing this teaser with Ola’s four electric motorcycle concepts, there is very little semblance.However, when comparing it with Ola’s design patents in the recent past, we can establish some sort of semblance. Ola’s design patents showed the motorcycle in different variants. We expect the same to be true with production-spec model as well.Ola ADV BikePerformance might be in the same ballpark as Ola S1 Pro Gen II with a slightly larger battery pack. There is a good probability of it having a claimed range of over 150 km. If Ola offers the same 7-inch touchscreen dashboard on this motorcycle with Google Maps and a plethora of features and gimmicks, it could be a well-received product. More