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      in Electric Cars

      Kia Clavis Electric Spied Testing Ahead Of Launch – Punch EV Rival?

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      Kia Clavis EV SpiedTo challenge the top-selling Tata Punch in sub-4-meter segment, Kia can introduce the ICE and EV versions of Clavis simultaneouslyKia Clavis test mules have been spied on road tests multiple times in recent months. It will be Kia’s most affordable SUV for India and is expected to be launched later this year. But that’s not all. Now, an EV version of Clavis has also been spotted in South Korea. It is apparent that Kia is planning a major onslaught to challenge the supremacy of Tata Punch.Kia Clavis EV – What to expect?Clavis ICE versions spotted earlier and this recent EV model are almost identical. The SUV has vertically stacked headlamps and LED DRLs, sculpted bonnet, flush-type door handles and functional roof rails. Even the alloy wheels are the same for both ICE and EV versions. However, this configuration could change with the production model. At rear, the lighting setup has the same vibes as one sees at the front. Overall, Kia Clavis has a compact, boxy profile.Kia Clavis Electric Spied – RearTo achieve a differentiation between the ICE and EV variants, Kia could introduce some minor changes at the front and rear. EV-specific badging will also be there across both exterior and interiors. A distinctive profile for both versions can also be achieved with exclusive colour shades and unique interior theme options.Kia Clavis EV – Key featuresMuch of the equipment list will be common for both ICE and EV versions of Kia Clavis. To engage rival Tata Punch in a close contest, Kia will ensure that Clavis gets a comprehensive range of features. It will include multiple segment-first and best-in-class features. Clavis test mules have revealed the presence of premium equipment such as ADAS, panoramic sunroof, 360° camera, ventilated seats and front parking sensors. These features will be available with the top-spec variants of Clavis.Kia Clavis – Casper Inspired ProfileOther key highlights of Clavis include dual, integrated screens for the infotainment and instrument cluster. This setup will be a close match to that of new Sonet and Seltos. The steering wheel seems familiar to that of Kia EV6. Kia Clavis will have dual-tone fabric upholstery. Interiors seem spacious in the spy shots, although one can get a better idea only after taking a test drive.Kia Clavis Alloy WheelKia Clavis EV – Performance, rangeDetails about the powertrain for Kia Clavis EV are yet to be revealed. However, it is possible that Clavis EV could borrow the powertrain from Hyundai Casper EV. As per estimates, Kia Clavis EV could have a range of around 320 km for the base variant. Kia will focus on features such as advanced regen system and fast charging.Rival Tata Punch EV is available in standard and long-range formats. The standard version has a 25-kWh battery that delivers a range of 315 km. Punch EV long range variant utilizes a 35-kWh battery, with a range of 421 km.Kia Clavis Electric Spied More

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      Honda Activa Electric Launch Likely In 2025 – To Rival iQube, Chetak, Rizta

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      Image for illustration purpose.When launched, Honda Activa Electric will rival the family electric scooters like Ather Rizta, Ola S1 X+ and TVS iQube to name a fewIndia being the largest 2W market in the world, poses a stellar proposition for 2W manufacturers to offer a diverse portfolio, touching a wider audience base. EVs are more of a lucrative option today than they ever did. One of India’s leading 2W manufacturers, Honda, is exploring the promising EV route and the first offering might hit the roads in FY 2025.Legacy 2W manufacturers such as HMSI (Honda Motorcycles and Scooters India) currently lack an electric offering in India. HMSI is poised to redefine Indian 2W electric mobility space with an upcoming EV based on the mighty Activa brand.Honda Activa EV Launch PlansActiva is currently India’s best-selling scooter by a huge margin and has been that way for well over a decade. Associating an EV with the massively popular Activa brand will establish a sense of familiarity. Recent reports suggest HMSI intends to expand its production capacity to incorporate new assembly lines for Activa Electric.If you may recall, HMSI scaled back its expansion plans ahead of stricter BS6 emission norms implementation. Covid-19-related atrocities soon followed and the company’s expansion plans were put on hold until now. In an attempt to scale up production capacity, HMSI has added two new manufacturing lines at their Gujarat and Karnataka plants.Honda ActivaThe new third line at Gujarat plant is projected to bring around 6.6 lakh units of additional volume. A dedicated EV manufacturing line is said to be in the works and might go operational in FY25 to meet growing demands for both 2W ICE and electric vehicles. Combined, the total increment in capacity hovers around 9 lakh units per annum mark.Will Activa Electric be among the biggest impacts on 2W market?Post Covid-19, the market is falling back to its former glory and HMSI is eying to get closer to its peak performance of 5.9 million units in FY19. Past financial year has awarded Honda with a 13% growth in domestic sales with around 4.5 million units in volume and a 25% market share of the total 2W industry of India.Today, India is among the leading economies of the world. Better distribution of incomes, sustained economic growth, normal rainfall, increasing population and increasing consumption among the population can prove to be a perfect recipe for significant growth in the 2W market from both urban and rural areas.Considering the gargantuan popularity of Activa in India, we would reckon upcoming Activa EV might prove to be India’s biggest scooter launch in almost a decade. Considering the conservative and non gimmicky approach to ICE Activa, Honda might strike the right balance between features and pricing to dominate India’s e-scooter market.Source More

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      Hero Mavrick 440 Scrambler Launch Planned – RE Scram 450 Rival

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      Hero Mavrick 440Hero Mavrick 440 Scrambler will have some distinctive hardware to support effortless riding across off-road tracksFor a roadster, it is a natural progression to spawn into multiple body styles. Hero appears to be following a similar approach for Mavrick 440, as a trademark for a new scrambler version has been filed. In the future, there could be a cafe racer or an ADV variant as well based on the same platform.As compared to the roadster, Mavrick 440 Scrambler will have capabilities to tackle more challenging riding environments. It will be a versatile machine, suited for urban streets as well as off-road tracks. To unlock such possibilities, Mavrick 440 Scrambler will be getting some functional upgrades.Hero Mavrick 440 Scrambler name trademarkedFor example, the bike is expected to get a wider handlebar. It will allow improved control and leverage, something that will be useful across off-road tracks. A wider handlebar will also enable improved weight distribution, enhanced steering control and increased comfort. Having a wider handlebar can also improve the bike’s visual appeal.Another key change possible with Mavrick 440 Scrambler is a flatter, narrower seat. It will allow the rider to easily shift their position to suit their riding environment. The bike could get more robust footpegs to support the weight when riding the bike standing up. The positioning of the footpegs could also be altered to achieve a more committed riding stance. For a more rugged look and feel, Hero Mavrick 440 Scrambler could get fork gaiters.Hero Mavrick 440 Scrambler Trademark FiledWheel size could be 19-inch front and 17-inch rear for the scrambler. In comparison, the roadster version has 17-inch wheels at both ends. Tyre profile could also be different for the scrambler.  It could get dual-purpose or all-terrain tyres. The standard Mavrick 440 has 110/70 front and 150/60 rear tyres.Hero Mavrick 440 Scrambler performance, specsPowering Hero Mavrick 440 Scrambler will be the 440cc, single cylinder, air cooled with oil cooler engine. It churns out 27 bhp / 36 Nm and is mated to a 6-speed gearbox. Hero may introduce some slight tweaks to the engine to suit the scrambler’s profile. However, there is unlikely to be any major difference in output numbers. Suspension and braking setup will be largely the same as the roadster. Mavrick 440 has 43mm telescopic forks at front and 7-step adjustable twin shock absorbers at rear. Braking setup comprises 320 mm and 240 mm discs at front and rear, respectively.Mavrick 440 Scrambler will have all LED lighting. The digital speedometer with negative display will be the same as the roadster version. Users can pair their smartphones via Bluetooth to access functions such as missed call alerts, message notifications, phone battery status and turn-by-turn navigation. The digital speedometer displays a comprehensive range of information such as low fuel indicator, gear indicator, distance to empty and real time mileage.2024 Royal Enfield Scram 450 Spied – Will rival Hero Mavrick 440 ScramblerA launch timeline for Hero Mavrick 440 Scrambler is not available at this point of time. Hero could introduce it later this year or sometime in 2025. Just like the roadster, the scrambler version will also be introduced across international markets. Upon launch, it could rival the Triumph Scrambler 400, upcoming Royal Enfield Scram 450, etc. More

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      Honda CB350 RS Custom In Japan Gets Carbon Fibre Parts, Metzeler Tyres

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      Honda CB350 RS CustomThe stock 348cc single cylinder air-cooled engine on this custom Honda CB350RS by Magical Racing generates 20 PS and 29 NmHonda’s rival to Royal Enfield Classic 350, CB350 has been one of the popular classic motorcycles on sale in India. There are three variations of CB350 on sale and the sportiest of this bunch is CB350RS, a scrambler-esque motorcycle. A custom Honda CB350RS by Magical Racing gets carbon fibre parts from Magical Racing in Japan.Custom Honda CB350RS By Magical RacingThis CB350 series has spawned three body styles till now and multiple optional packs offering customers some kind of personalisation options right from the OEM. That said, a full-on custom offering with accentuated sportiness is a good proposition for Honda CB350RS and that’s exactly what Magical Racing is aiming for.Honda CB350 RS CustomFor starters, Honda manufactures the CB350 lineup in India and exports it to Japan. CB350 H’ness is sold as GB350, CB350 RS as GB350 S and the newest CB350 (Classic) as GB350 C in Japan. Magical Racing has selected GB350 S owing to its sportiness and has worked its magic on it.Magical Racing did not go overboard with its sportiness criteria and achieved a completely different-looking motorcycle. Instead, what Magical Racing has done is in keeping with the vision Honda had while creating Honda CB350RS. In that regard, we can see subtle changes that lend a sportier appeal than stock.Honda CB350 RS CustomOther notable changesThe main highlight is the carbon fibre ORVM codenamed “NK-1 Mirror” which uses a Type 6 head and 10 mm thread. Other changes we can spot are an FRP rear tail tidy that looks much better than stock. Also notable is an open-type chain cover that looks more industrial and raw, perfectly complementing the new short rear fender.Honda CB350 RS CustomMatching the short rear fender is a short front fender. Both fenders get an option of either a silver finish or a matte black finish. Brackets for both FRP fenders are made of stainless steel. Adding a dash of retro-ness is a short fly screen that is also offered in either silver finish or matte black.These components are from TCW and the stickers on front and rear fenders along with front windscreen come with the package and are optional. Another notable attribute of this build is that lighting elements are kept stock. Metzeler Tourance Next tyres will add a dash of sportiness to the stock vehicle’s dynamics.Honda CB350 RS CustomMagical Racing has established a good unison of carbon fibre, stainless steel and aluminium and achieved a slightly sportier look that should appeal to many. Powertrain is kept stock too. The same 348.36cc air-cooled engine as the stock donor bike develops 21 PS of peak power and 29 Nm of peak torque and is mated to a 5-speed gearbox. More

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      New Honda CKD Engine Assembly Line: The Heartbeat of Exports

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      Honda ActivaNew Honda CKD Engine Assembly Line – Manufacturing Milestones: From Activa to Advanced EnginesHonda Motorcycle & Scooter India has inaugurated a new CKD Engine Assembly Line at its Global Resource Factory in Manesar, Gurugram, Haryana. The facility is key to Honda’s commitment to technological innovation, quality manufacturing, and its prominent position in the Indian two-wheeler market. Situated in Manesar, the new assembly line has ample capacity, capable of manufacturing up to 600 engines daily. Systems are designed to cater to a broad spectrum of models, from 110cc to 300cc. This facility demonstrates Honda’s versatility in addressing diverse market demands and adapting to evolving consumer preferences.Established in 2001, the Global Resource Factory was Honda’s pioneering venture into two-wheeler manufacturing in India. Since then, it has evolved into a vital export hub, catering to 58 markets worldwide. This growth trajectory caters to Honda’s pursuit of global excellence, and its significant contribution to the automotive landscape.New Honda CKD Engine Assembly LineCommitment to Quality: Ensuring Excellence in Every EngineThe new CKD Engine Assembly Line incorporates advanced technologies to ensure quality, efficiency, and precision. It utilises DC tools for critical torquing and features a vision camera inspection system for thorough quality checks. Complete traceability of parts and processes is ensured, enhancing transparency and accountability throughout the production process.The assembly line includes a dedicated exhaust collection line and an acoustic chamber for engine sound inspection. A necessity to maintain high-quality standards. Automation plays a crucial role in enhancing efficiency and accuracy in the new assembly line. Systems such as the flywheel assembly automation and automatic piston parts verification streamline the assembly process. Reducing manual errors and ensuring consistent quality across all engine components.Over Two Decades of Honda’s Quality Manufacturing in ManesarA small parts interlocking unit is implemented to minimise errors and ensure seamless ops. This proven approach to production is focused on error-free processes and a non-negotiable need to maintain standards in excellence in manufacturing.Reflecting Honda’s history in Manesar, ‘Activa’ was the first mass-produced model launched from the Global Resource Factory. This milestone marked the beginning of Honda’s journey towards technological advancements and innovation in the Indian market. With the introduction of the new CKD Engine Assembly Line, Honda Motorcycle & Scooter India aims to strengthen its export capabilities and expand its market reach. Aligned to the company’s broader goals of market expansion, innovation, and delivering high-quality products.Boosting Export Capabilities: Otani on Honda’s Manufacturing FutureLeveraging advanced technologies and focusing on quality assurance is essential to business success. Honda’s new CKD Engine Assembly Line at the Global Resource Factory in Manesar represents the ethos of advancement in manufacturing capabilities. A prerequisite for Honda’s leadership in the automotive industry.Tsutsumu Otani, Managing Director, President and CEO, Honda Motorcycle and Scooter India, said, “We are happy to introduce a new engine assembly line for CKD exports at our Global Resource Factory in Manesar. It is a testament to our relentless pursuit of driving technological advancements in the industry. With this step, HMSI aims to boost its export capabilities, reaching new heights in market expansion and adherence to global quality standards.” More

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      Electric 2W Retail Sales FY24 vs FY23 – Ola, TVS, Ather, Bajaj, Hero, Ampere, Revolt, Okinawa

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      Ola Electric ScooterOla Electric headed the two wheeler electric retail sales with 3.29 lakh unit sales and a 34.76% market shareElectric 2W retail sales in FY2024 received a huge boost with almost every OEM posting significant YoY growth as compared to sales in FY2023. The segment was led by none other than Ola Electric while TVS, Ather and Bajaj Auto each crossed sales above the 1 lakh unit mark.Electric 2W Retail Sales FY2024Following our earlier report of electric two wheeler retail sales in March 2024, we now assess sales during the entire 12 months of the past financial year. Total electric two wheeler sales in FY2024 stood at 9,47,087 units, up 30.06 percent over 7,28,205 units sold in FY2023. This was a 2,18,882 units volume growth showing buyers acceptance to this more environmentally friendly, cost effective, mode of travel over their fossil fuel alternatives.Electric 2W Retail Sales FY2024Ola Electric led this segment with a major market share of 34.76%. Ola’s portfolio, which currently includes models such as S1 X+ , S1 Pro and S1 Air, has seen retail sales of 3,29,237 units in FY2024, up 115.48% over 1,52,791 units sold in FY2023. At No. 2 was the TVS Motor with 122.84% YoY growth to 1,82,969 units of the iQube sold in FY2024. This was over 82,108 units sold in FY2023 relating to a 1,00,861 unit volume growth.Ather has also seen outstanding sales for its Ather 450S and 450X with 1,08,889 unit retail sales in FY2024 up 41.53% over 76,939 units sold in FY2023. Sales in the coming months is set to increase significantly over the coming months as Ather Rizta electric scooter has been opened for bookings. Ather Rizta will compete with the TVS iQube on the price factor starting off at Rs 1,09,999 as against the TVS iQube which is priced at Rs 1,36,628.Electric 2W Retail Sales FY2024Bajaj Auto retail sales in the electric segment grew by 266.14% with a total of 1,07,069 units of the Chetak sold in FY2024 up from 32,829 units sold in FY2023 to command an 11.31% market share. Impressive performance was seen for Greaves EV that has posted a 2930.33% YoY growth to 31,273 units in FY2024 up from 1,032 units sold in FY2023 relating to a 30,241 unit volume growth. Ampere and Okinawa have both reported YoY degrowth in retail sales by 71.89% and 78.24% respectively to 23,771 units and 20,873 units.OEMs with Retail Sales at Sub-20,000 units In FY24In the sub-20,000 unit segment, it was Hero MotoCorp that has seen enormous growth of 1780.23% to 17,693 units, a 16,752 unit volume growth from 941 units sold in the same period last year. Hero’s Vida V1 Plus and Pro variants steered the company to command a 1.86% market share in this segment. It was followed by BGauss (15,238 units) and Okaya (14,026 units), of which BGauss showed 267.45% and Okaya posted 6.47% YoY growth.Hero Electric retail sales dipped to 12,093 units, down 86.35% over 88,609 units sold in FY2023 while Kinetic Green saw a 74.04% YoY growth to 9,703 units in FY2024 up from 5,575 units sold in FY2023. The list also included Wardwizard (9,115 units) and Revolt (7,342 units), while there were other contributors to this segment that have seen a 23.64% YoY de-growth in retail sales down to 57,796 units in FY2024 from 75,689 units sold in FY2024. More

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      Chery iCar V23 Debuts – Co-Developed With Xiaomi And Takes On Yep Plus SUV

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      Chery iCar V23 DebutsThe new Chery iCar V23 takes an overall similar design theme as iCar 03 with heavy design inspirations from Toyota FJ CruiserAhead of its launch, Chery iCar V23 has debuted and will be shown at Beijing Auto Show later this month. Pre-sales for this interesting-looking SUV will commence sometime around the second half of 2024. It takes a similar boxy SUV approach as recently launched Baojun Yep Plus SUV.Chery iCar V23 DebutsWho doesn’t love small boxy SUVs with some off-road capabilities? We sure do. Chery has extended its iCar lineup to incorporate V23 e-SUV which is set to launch soon. V23 is second vehicle falling under the iCar umbrella and is co-developed with Xiaomi’s subsidiary, Smartmi, which is also known as Zhimi Technology.Chery iCar V23 is around the same size as a Skoda Kushaq measuring 4,220 mm in length, 1,915 mm in width, 1,845 mm in height and has a wheelbase of 2,730 mm. Chery iCar V23 is considerably smaller than Chery’s own iCar 03 even thought it follows the same rugged boxy SUV design theme as iCar 03.You don’t have to be a genius to realise that Chery iCar V23 takes a lot of design inspiration from a now-discontinued SUV from a legacy car maker. We’re talking about Toyota’s legendary FJ Cruiser. Especially with those round headlights, wrap-around type LED DRLs / turn indicators, off-road bumpers and more.Chery iCar V23At the side, design inspiration from FJ Cruiser gets even more evident with the way windshield angle is positioned, chunky ORVMs and a rather thick C-pillar. Unlike FJ Cruiser, this thick C-pillar on Chery iCar V23 extends to its rear, creating a giant blindspot. Rear is not as heavily inspired as FJ Cruiser. Instead of a spare wheel, V23 tailgate gets a storage box for aesthetics.Off-road CredentialsOn the inside, shallow and flat dashboard gets dual-tone treatment. The giant central display grabs all the attention and there are quite a few knobs and toggle switches for crucial functions like climate control. The three-spoke steering wheel gets dual-tone treatment and is wrapped in leather. Interestingly, rear bench seat only has two seats despite having 1,915 mm width.Chery iCar V23 DashboardChery has ensured iCar V23 is a proper off-road-worthy machine. RWD versions promise a 42° approach angle and a 40° departure angle along with a 206 mm ground clearance. The 4WD variant promises a 43° approach and 41° departure angles along with 212 mm ground clearance.Wheel size options include either 19-inchers or 21-inchers. Powertrains are not fully out. Rumour mill suggests an 80 kWh CATL battery pack with 4WD variant and a smaller battery with RWD variant. Range on a single charge could vary between 400 km and 500 km with RWD and 4WD variants respectively. Will it launch in India? Not likely. More

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      2024 Yamaha Aerox 155 S Variant Launch Price Rs 1.5 Lakh

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      2024 Yamaha Aerox 155 S VariantYamaha Unveils AEROX 155 Version S: Elevating Urban Mobility with Smart Key TechnologyYamaha’s commitment to innovation and customer satisfaction reaches new heights with the launch of the AEROX 155 Version S, a testament to performance, style, and technological advancement. In line with its ‘The Call of the Blue’ brand campaign, India Yamaha Motor (IYM) Pvt. Ltd. has introduced the latest iteration of the Maxi-Sports Scooter, equipped with state-of-the-art Smart Key technology aimed at enhancing convenience and security for urban riders.2024 Yamaha Aerox 155 S VariantThe Aerox 155 Version S, available exclusively at Blue Square showrooms, debuts in two captivating color shades – Silver and Racing Blue, priced at Rs. 1,50,600 (Ex-showroom, Delhi). One of the standout features of the AEROX 155 Version S is its Smart Key technology, designed to redefine urban mobility. This advanced system offers functionalities such as Answer Back, Unlock, and Immobilizer, providing riders with a seamless and secure experience.2024 Yamaha Aerox 155 S VariantThe Answer Back feature assists riders in locating their scooter in crowded urban environments, activating flashing blinkers and a buzzer sound for easy identification. Additionally, the keyless ignition simplifies the startup process, allowing riders to start their scooter effortlessly through proximity detection, eliminating the need for manual key insertion.Moreover, the Smart Key system enhances security by incorporating an immobilizer function, safeguarding the scooter against unauthorized access or theft when the key is out of range. This feature offers riders peace of mind, ensuring their vehicle’s protection in various scenarios.[embedded content]Mr. Eishin Chihana, Chairman, Yamaha Motor India Group of Companies said, “Since its launch, the AEROX 155 has been a resounding success, captivating dynamic customers with its impressive performance and extraordinary design. As Indian cities evolve, the need for efficient transportation solutions has grown substantially, prompting Yamaha to lead with innovations that not only address but surpass the evolving demands of riders.2024 Yamaha Aerox 155 Smart KeyThe integration of Smart Key technology into the AEROX 155 exemplifies this commitment. Seamlessly blending convenience and utility, the new Smart Key feature sets a new standard for urban mobility experiences. The Yamaha AEROX 155 has long been celebrated for its performance and style, and the introduction of the Version S signifies an important stride in our ongoing dedication to enhancing the rider experience.”2024 Yamaha Aerox 155 S SpecsApart from its advanced Smart Key technology, the AEROX 155 Version S boasts a bold design characterized by sleek athletic proportions and the striking X Centre motif. It is equipped with a Traction Control System (TCS) and powered by a new generation 155cc Blue Core engine with Variable Valve Actuation (VVA). This liquid-cooled, 4-stroke, SOHC, 4-valve motor delivers a maximum power output of 15 PS at 8,000rpm, coupled with 13.9 Nm of peak torque produced at 6,500rpm.New Yamaha Aerox is E20 fuel compliant, features an on-board diagnostics (OBD-II) System, and includes a hazard system as a standard feature, further enhancing its appeal in the scooter segment. It boasts impressive dimensions and specifications, designed to offer riders a comfortable and dynamic riding experience. With an overall length, width, and height of 1,980mm, 700mm, and 1,150mm respectively, the scooter provides ample space for riders while maintaining a sleek and aerodynamic profile.The seat height of 790mm ensures easy accessibility for riders of various heights, enhancing comfort during long journeys. A wheelbase of 1350mm contributes to stability and manoeuvrability, allowing for confident handling in urban environments. Despite its robust features, the AEROX 155 Version S remains lightweight, weighing just 126kg, facilitating agile performance and effortless navigation through traffic. Furthermore, with a minimum ground clearance of 145mm and a fuel tank capacity of 5.5L, this scooter offers the perfect balance of agility, stability, and practicality for urban commuters. More