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    Biden to Set Target for 50 Percent of New Car Sales to Be EVs by 2030

    President Biden is expected to announce today that his administration, with buy-in from several major automakers, will set voluntary targets for EVs, plug-in hybrids, and hydrogen fuel-cell vehicles to account for 50 percent of new-car sales by 2030.Ford, GM, and Stellantis released a joint statement of support for the goal, contingent on the federal government providing significant support, including money for EV infrastructure and incentives to help entice buyers. BMW, Honda, Toyota, Volkswagen, and Volvo also released statements in support of the goal.The administration is also expected to announce plans to restore Obama-era tailpipe emissions standards and to eventually set stricter regulations for tailpipe emissions starting with the 2027 model year, though the specific targets still haven’t been determined.President Biden is expected to announce this afternoon a set of plans intended to accelerate the adoption of electric vehicles and reduce driving-related emissions. The New York Times says Biden will announce a return to Obama-era fuel economy standards, which were relaxed during the Trump administration. Biden is also expected to direct federal agencies to begin planning for even stricter emissions standards, which would take effect beginning with the 2027 model year. Biden has also said he will sign an executive order which will set a goal for EVs, plug-in hybrids, and hydrogen fuel-cell vehicles to account for 50 percent of new car sales by 2030.
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    That last proposal would rely on automakers making voluntary commitments to EVs and EV sales, and would lack any mechanism to enforce the 50 percent goal or to punish automakers who do not comply. Several automakers, including BMW, Ford, General Motors, Honda, Stellantis, Toyota, Volkswagen, and Volvo, in addition to the United Auto Workers, have already voiced support for the Biden administration’s emissions and EV sales goals.

    But a joint statement from Ford, GM, and Stellantis adds an important caveat: Those automakers will strive for a 50 percent sales mix for EVs and plug-ins by the prescribed date as long as the federal government offers significant support towards that goal, including funding for EV-related infrastructure, support for domestic manufacturing and research and development, and increased incentives to encourage customers to buy the cars. EVs now account for around 3 percent of the U.S. car sales, though numbers are beginning to rise even without new investment from the government. The Senate is poised to vote on an infrastructure bill that would provide funding for some EV-related infrastructure, but the $15 billion this bill would set aside for EVs won’t be enough to fund all the initiatives that automakers say they’ll need to aggressively ramp up EV sales. An earlier proposal from the Biden administration would have provided $157 billion in funding for EV infrastructure, but the number was whittled down during a bipartisan negotiation process.
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    McLaren Speedtail Albert Honors Prototype with Camo Paint

    McLaren Special Operations has revealed the Albert, a one-off version of the Speedtail commissioned by McLaren Beverly Hills.The name pays homage to the first Speedtail prototype, itself named for the original McLaren F1 test cars that were dubbed Albert after the street where McLaren was based.The paint job on the Albert is similar to the prototype’s camouflage wrap, and the mesmerizing lines took 12 weeks to paint onto the Speedtail’s aerodynamic body.McLaren is only building 106 examples of the sleek, 1035-hp, $2.1 million Speedtail, but the grey and white example seen here called Albert takes the exclusivity to the next level. The Albert is a one-off revealed by McLaren Special Operations (MSO), the division focused on making the automotive dreams of the uber-rich come true. It was commissioned by McLaren Beverly Hills.

    McLaren

    Although naming a car the Albert sounds odd, the moniker is a reference to the Speedtail’s ancestors. Back in 1992, the original test mules of the legendary McLaren F1 were called Albert in reference to the street, Albert Drive, where McLaren developed and built the supercar in Woking, England. As an homage to this, the original MVY02 Speedtail prototype was given the same name, which now migrates to this one-off honoring the test vehicle.

    The original Albert was built to test the ergonomics of the central seat driving position, evaluating visibility and rear-view camera positioning. The MVY02 was the first Speedtail to be driven on public roads, and originally used the front-end bodywork from a 720S. The production-spec Albert mimics the prototype’s camouflage livery, with a complex paint job featuring a gradient of grey lines representing the airflow over the car. The car is painted in Magnesium Silver, the color of the first F1 road car revealed at the 1992 Monaco Grand Prix, and Ueno Grey, which adorned the F1 GTR that trumped at the 1995 24 Hours of Le Mans. The MSO team spent 12 weeks applying the intricate paint job. The Albert is set to debut at Sunset GT, a cars and coffee event hosted by O’Gara Beverly Hills this Sunday in Los Angeles before Monterey Car Week kicks off on Monday.
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    Morgan Built a Wild-Looking Plus Four That's Ready for Rallying

    Morgan has created an off-road version of the Plus Four called the CX-T.It has a lifted suspension, an external roll cage, and an electronically controlled limited-slip differential.Morgan says it will build eight examples of the CX-T for around $240,000.Morgan is the most eccentric of England’s many eccentric sports-car makers. But although Americans cannot currently buy any of the company’s models in the U.S. (plans continue to advance to bring both the Plus Four and Plus Six back here under replica car rules), we’re hoping somebody can fudge the paperwork to get the newly unveiled Plus Four CX-T brought into the ‘States. Described as a car “designed for overland adventure,” it is basically an off-road version of the Plus Four, featuring a substantial external roll cage and various other modifications to help it to cut it in the wilderness. It doesn’t have all-wheel drive, though. Like the regular Plus Four the CX-T sends power exclusively to the rear axle.

    Its wilderness ability comes from Maxxis all-terrain tires, a raised ride height, and the fitment of a new BMW-sourced electronically controlled limited-slip differential with various modes for different conditions including “all terrain” and “extreme,” the latter of which locks the differential. As with the standard Plus Four, power comes from BMW’s turbocharged 2.0-liter inline-four engine and a six-speed manual gearbox.

    Morgan

    The roll cage is described by the company as protective exoskeleton, with the integration of a fixed roof meaning this is technically the first coupe Morgan has produced since the Aeromax in 2009. The cage incorporates mountings for rally lights, an aluminum tool box, bespoke luggage, two spare wheels, and what the official release says is “recovery equipment”—presumably winches and traction pads to help it escape when stuck. Additional mountings on the roof will accommodate bicycles or even surfboards. The CX-T’s suspension is similar to the larger Plus Six’s and has new coilover dampers that have been developed by motorsport preparations specialists Rally Raid UK, which regularly works on Dakar Rally challengers. Ground clearance has been increased to 9.0 inches, with that figure helped by a redesigned side-exit exhaust system. That isn’t much by the standards of tougher off-roaders, but a set of bash guards will give additional underbody protection if obstacles do get too close.

    Morgan

    Morgan says it is planning to build up to eight of the CX-T, with each one costing the equivalent of $240,000 before local taxes. That’s more than twice as much as British buyers have to pay for the standard Plus Four, but the CX-T does look as if it could be more than twice as much fun.
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    New Yamaha 155cc Scooter For India – R15 Based NMax, Sniper?

    Yamaha Sniper. Image – XIII Tips N VlogIt is likely that Yamaha’s new 155cc scooter will be launched in India by Diwali 2021
    In 150cc-200cc segment, Yamaha currently has multiple bestsellers such as FZ, R15 and MT15. However, Yamaha’s scooter portfolio in India is limited to 125cc offerings such as Fascino and RayZR. Aiming to include more premium products in its portfolio, Yamaha is expected to introduce a new 155cc scooter later this year. Yamaha could choose from products available in international markets such as NMax 155, Sniper, etc. Hat tip to automotive enthusiast Bawla Kawlni for sharing this update.
    Yamaha Sniper 155
    This looks like a moped or it can also be described as a moto-scooter. Yamaha Sniper 155 has a sharp front fascia with dual-LED headlight and sleek turn indicators. Overall design appears to be inspired by Yamaha’s flagship YZF-R1.
    Other features that ensure a sporty profile for Sniper 155 include sharp fairing design, slightly upswept blacked-out exhaust, eye-catchy graphics, elevated tail section and body-coloured alloy wheels. Colour options for Sniper 155, as offered in international markets, include Matte Green, Yellow Hornet and Black Raven.
    Among features that make Sniper 155 unique include its absence of floorboard. It has footpegs, just like a standard motorcycle. The seating appears ergonomic and users can expect more comfort and ventilation for the thighs, as compared to riding a motorcycle.
    2021 Yamaha NVX Scooter
    Yamaha NMax 155
    Available in Asian markets such as Indonesia and Thailand, Yamaha NMax 155 maxi-scooter is a strong contender for the Indian market. Maxi-scooter segment is at a nascent stage in the country. However, this space could witness healthy growth in the coming years. Maxi-scooters like NMax 155 not only have a sporty, dominating road presence, but they also pack in utilitarian features.
    Yamaha NMax 155 has a beefy front fascia, trendy LED headlight, low mounted turn signals, and tinted visor. Side panels have a wavy design, which ensure a smooth, aerodynamic look and feel for the scooter.
    Other key features include sporty rear view mirrors, sloping seat, LED tail lamp and blacked-out upswept exhaust. Colour options for the scooter include Matte Blue, Maxi Signature Black and Prestige Silver. The set of colour options may be different for the Indian market.
    2021 Yamaha NMAX 155
    Engine options
    Both NMax and Sniper share the same 155cc VVA motor that is used with other products such as YZF R15, MT-15, XSR 155, Aerox 155 and NVX 155. However, exact power and torque output may be slightly different based on the product.
    On NMax, the engine churns out 15.4 bhp of max power at 8,000 rpm and 13.9 Nm of peak torque at 6,500 rpm. Transmission duties are performed by a standard V-belt CVT. Sniper 155 has rated power delivery of 17.7 bhp at 9,500 rpm and 14.4 Nm at 8,000 rpm. Engine is mated to a 6-speed manual gearbox. More

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    Royal Enfield Hunter 350 Spied Again – New Look Front And Rear

    Image – Fast Bikes India / InstagramRoyal Enfield is working on an all new motorcycle which will likely be styled as a scrambler
    After successful launch of Meteor 350, Royal Enfield will soon be introducing another new product in 350cc segment. It could be launched as ‘Hunter’, a name that was earlier registered by the company.
    Royal Enfield Hunter design
    Hunter does continue using the signature retro styling that Royal Enfield motorcycles are known for. That’s evident in features such as circular headlamp, round rear view mirrors and tear drop fuel tank.
    However, the rest of the design is quite different from the current breed of Royal Enfield motorcycles. Hunter is relatively compact and has some unique features such as stubby exhaust, sleek seat design and short tail. Hunter also has a lower seat design as compared to exiting Royal Enfield motorcycles.
    As some of these design aspects are entirely new for a Royal Enfield motorcycle, it has led to speculations that Hunter could be targeted at female bikers. Things like lower seat height and compact design would certainly be advantageous for female users. As the community of female bikers is on the rise in the country, the possibility of Royal Enfield launching a dedicated product for them could not be entirely denied.
    Royal Enfield Hunter 350
    Royal Enfield Hunter engine and specs
    To minimize development costs, Hunter will borrow key components from recently launched Meteor 350. It will have the new J series 349 cc, air-oil cooled motor that is capable of generating max power of 20.2 hp and peak toque of 27 Nm. The engine comes mated to a 5-speed gearbox. With an SOHC setup, the new engine is a lot smoother and responsive, as compared to its predecessor. Vibrations have also reduced significantly with the new engine.
    Hunter is expected to get Tripper navigation, a segment-first feature introduced with Meteor 350. It comprises a dedicated display screen that shows navigational directions for the destination. Tripper system works in combination with Royal Enfield app and Google Maps.
    Launch of Hunter and other new products is part of the company’s strategy to introduce a new model almost every three months for the next seven years. Royal Enfield dominates the 200cc – 500cc segment with a market share of more than 85%. These new models will help the company to maintain its supremacy and possibly boost sales even further.
    By expanding its product portfolio, Royal Enfield will be able to target a much larger customer base. It will also help the company to fend off competition from new products launched by rival two-wheeler manufacturers such as Honda, Jawa, and Benelli. With the cult-like following for its motorcycles, coupled with an extended range of new products and next-gen models, Royal Enfield is at an advantageous position to dominate this decade.
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    Komaki Electric Scooter For Seniors, Specially Abled Citizens – Sales Cross 1,000

    Komaki Electric Scooter XGT X5Komaki XGT X5 sales surpass the 1,000 units sales milestone
    Komaki has had a fruitful result in the last two quarters. This has been helped by nationwide expansion with multiple dealerships being introduced in northern and southern states of India. In H1 2021, Komaki reported total sales of 21,000 units. This indicates growth pace of the EV manufacturer.
    Komaki XGT X5, designed for elderly and the specially-abled is available with enhanced safety features. This includes mechanical parking. To date, 1000+ units of XGT X5 have been sold. This is testimony to the need for dedicated mobility options for those with specific needs.
    Komaki XGT X5 has ride range
    Available across all dealerships in India, and also available for booking online, Komaki XGT X5 is available on EMI. Colour choices include red and grey. On a single charge, XGT X5 has ride range of 80-90 kilometres.
    It’s compatible with both, VRLA gel batteries and lithium-ion batteries. Standard features include regenerative braking systems for enhanced safety, and a repair switch to fix issues identified during self-diagnosis. This enables rides to safely reach their destination.
    Komaki Electric Scooter XGT X5
    “As a leading Electric Vehicle manufacturer, we feel that it is our responsibility to serve the people of this country without leaving anyone behind. We stand by our vision of creating a clean and green India as we embark upon newer journeys to delight our customers. We believe in investing in the happiness of the people, knowing they will continue to support us wherever we set our foot”, says Gunjan Malhotra, Director, Komaki Electric Vehicle Division.
    Expanding dealer network
    With the impact of its EV strategy already visible, it’s fair to say the company is leveraging strengths, and yielding good results. Sales from an increasing number of outlets has been a major contributor to overall retail sales visibly improving in recent months.
    As growth opened its doors to a new set of customers, it was expected that the dealerships would have to go through considerable growth in skill set along with incremental labuor costs. However, it was found that an increasing number of dealers are entering the foray to enhance the EV dealership network.
    The company’s plan for the Indian market is to focus on building more quality automobiles, and increasing the its dealership and service network. No doubt, Komaki will also work on improving software features for better conveniences.
    Komaki is not just focusing on developing technologically advanced products but also making them economically viable through an aggressive cost optimization exercise. With the growing adoption of EVs, the manufacturer is turning to its R&D capabilities in motors and power electronics to develop a portfolio of products that is wide ranging and doesn’t leave anyone behind. More

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    Two Wheeler Sales July 2021 – Hero, Honda, TVS, Bajaj, Suzuki, Royal Enfield

    Bajaj PulsarDespite being the only company to report de-growth, Hero MotoCorp once again topped the list commanding a 35.75 percent share in domestic markets
    Sales reports for July 2021 have shown growth across all segments. While sales of passenger vehicles increased significantly, two wheeler segment has seen marginal growth of 0.97 percent YoY. Taking into account the leading 6 two wheeler makers in India, total two wheeler sales stood at 12,00,621 units in July 2021, up from 11,89,106 units sold in July 2020. MoM sales saw more improvement at 16.76 percent growth from 10,28,302 units sold in June 2021.
    Hero And Honda Top 2
    Hero MotoCorp once again ruled this segment despite de-growth reported in a YoY and MoM basis. Hero commands a 35.75 percent market share with 4,29,208 units sold in the past month, down 16.26 percent as against 5,12,541 units sold in July 2020. MoM sales decline stood at 2.12 percent as compared to 4,38,514 units sold in June 2021. Decline was seen both in the case of scooters and motorcycles. Last month, Hero MotoCorp also introduced two new products – Glamour Xtec and ‘Connected’ Maestro Edge 125.
    Honda sales increased 9.96 percent YoY and 60.10 percent on a MoM basis. Sales in July 2020 which had stood at 3,09,332 units, increased to 3,40,133 units in July 2021 while in June 2021 sales had been at 2,12,446 units. Honda sales mainly comprised of the Activa, CB Shine and Dio. Last month, the company has also commenced deliveries of CB650R and CBR650R, launched in India in March 2021.
    At No.3 on the list was TVS Motor Co with 1,75,169 units sold in July 2021, up 20.46 percent over 1,45,413 units sold in July 2020. Bajaj Auto has reported flat sales in July 2021 which stood at 1,56,232 units, just a 2.46 percent increase over 1,52,474 units sold in July 2020 while MoM sales increased 0.38 percent over 1,55,640 units sold in June 2021. Among the company lineup, it was the Pulsar, Avenger, Dominar, CT100 and Platina that noted most demand.
    Two Wheeler Sales July 2021
    Suzuki and Royal Enfield
    Suzuki Motorcycle India has reported the highest YoY and MoM sales growth. Sales in July 2021 increased 92.83 percent to 60,589 units, up from 31,421 units sold in July 2020. MoM sales increased 49.70 percent from 40,474 units sold in June 2021. Suzuki Hayabusa, V-Strom 650 XT, Gixxer series along with Intruder, Access 125 and Burgman Street are among the popular models currently sold in Indian markets.
    Royal Enfield sales in July 2021 increased 3.60 percent YoY to 39,290 units over 37,925 units sold in July 2020. MoM sales improved 9.70 percent over 35,815 units sold in June 2021.
    Two Wheeler Exports
    Two wheeler exports surged significantly on a YoY basis. Exports of the leading 6 two wheeler makers in India increased 71.46 percent to 3,49,728 units in July 2021, up from 2,03,975 units exported in July 2020. MoM exports also increased 14.19 percent from 3,06,267 units shipped in June 2021.
    Two Wheeler Exports July 2021
    In terms of exports, it was Bajaj Auto Limited that ruled the list with a 49.85 percent share. Total exports stood at 1,74,337 units in the past month, up 102.52 percent from 86,082 units exported in July 2020. MoM exports increased 12.52 percent from 1,54,938 units shipped in June 2021.
    TVS Motor Co suffered de-growth in exports both on a YoY and MoM basis, down 5.52 percent to 87,559 units in July 2021, over 92,679 units exported in July 2020. Honda exports however, surged 270.58 percent to 4,400 units in July 2021 over 12,251 units shipped in July 2020 while MoM exports also increased 110.35 percent over 21,583 units of June 2021.
    Hero MotoCorp has just opened exports in markets of Mexico with models such as the Xpulse 200, Xpulse 200T, Hunk 190, Hunk 160R, Hunk 150, Eco 150 TR, Eco 150 Cargo, and Ignitor 125, along with the Dash 125 scooter. Total exports for July 2021 stood at 25,190 units, up 233.07 percent over 7,563 units shipped in July 2020. MoM exports grew 22.01 percent over 20,646 units exported in June 2021.
    Suzuki and Royal Enfield exports increased 317.72 percent and 97.09 percent on a YoY basis respectively. However, while Suzuki exports increased 5.98 percent MoM that of Royal Enfield dipped 34.36 percent. More

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    New York Auto Show Officially Canceled for 2021

    The New York auto show, previously rescheduled for August, has now been canceled.The show said that it’s due to a rise in COVID-19 Delta variant cases and stricter public-health measures put in place in New York City.Debuts that were scheduled for the auto show include the Nissan 400Z, Subaru WRX, and Jeep Grand Cherokee plug-in hybrid.The organizers of the New York auto show announced that the show has been canceled and will not take place in 2021. It had previously been rescheduled for August, a change from its typical place in the calendar in the spring. We’re not sure what this means for the many new-vehicle debuts that were planned for the show, including the 2022 Subaru WRX, Nissan Z, and Jeep Grand Cherokee plug-in hybrid.

    The show said in a statement that the cancelation is due to “the growing incidences of the Covid-19 Delta variant and the increased measures announced recently by State and local officials to stop its spread.” The organizers now say that the next New York auto show will be in spring 2022. The show was also canceled in 2020 due to the coronavirus pandemic after initially being rescheduled for August.We will keep you updated about any news regarding the reveals that had been planned for this show. The Nissan Z debut is scheduled for August 17, a few days before the show, and the Subaru WRX is scheduled for August 19—we haven’t heard about any changes to those plans yet, but stay tuned.
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