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      in Bike

      Hero HF Dawn Spied Testing – The Next Big Thing In Commuter Motorcycles?

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      New Hero HF Dawn Spied TestingLooking close to production, Hero HF Dawn might be the most affordable motorcycle on sale in India when it is launched soon
      India is one of, if not, the largest 2W market on earth. Establishing dominance in this market is paramount. The best way to crack this market is to launch affordable commuters, which still forms the major chunk of sales. Hero has aced this genre and is taking the game to the next level with upcoming HF Dawn, which has been spotted testing recently.
      Hero HF Dawn Spotted Testing
      World’s largest motorcycle manufacturer, Hero MotoCorp, is the best-selling 2W brand in India. The company relies heavily on its 100cc portfolio with Splendor brand being the golden goose. Hero MotoCorp has been witnessing stiff competition from HMSI (Honda Motorcycles and Scooters India).
      Hero has regained market leadership last month in domestic market, but only by a small margin. To expand its market share, Hero intends to pull out the big guns in the form of HF Dawn, which was discontinued in May 2017 owing to poor sales. However, times are different today and Hero needs a more affordable 100cc offering.
      This is where the recently spied Hero HF Dawn comes into play. With less equipment and bodywork than every other Hero offering today, HF Dawn could very well be the most affordable Hero motorcycle and the most affordable motorcycle of any brand.
      Hero HF Dawn Pre 2017
      Currently, HF 100 is the most affordable offering from Hero MotoCorp and the upcoming HF Dawn will be positioned below that. Think, of a price point of around Rs 55,000 (Ex-sh), as opposed to HF 100’s Rs 59,018 (Ex-sh) pricing. We can see very basic componentry and equipment with HF Dawn.
      The larger headlight setup with a cowl on HF 100 will be replaced with a simpler round headlight. This round headlight looks better, if you ask me. There will be a simple analogue instrument cluster and elements like a tachometer and fuel meter might be absent. Electric self start will be a “feature” on this motorcycle.
      When will it launch?
      Wheels are alloys, similar to the one seen in HF 100. Braking is via drum units at both ends. Seat is long and rear is suspended by twin shock absorbers and front gets RSU telescopic forks. All the lighting will be via halogen bulbs.
      Hero HF 100
      An exact launch timeline from Hero MotoCorp is yet to be announced, but the test mule spied recently looked production-ready. It will bear the same 97.2cc single-cylinder air-cooled unit with around 8 bhp of peak power and 8 Nm of peak torque, mated to a 4-speed gearbox. This engine might not get i3S stop/start feature to keep pricing competitive.
      Also read – Hero Splendor+ gets first-in-segment front disc brakes
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      in Electric Cars

      Citroen C5 Aircross EV Spied Testing Without Any Camouflage

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      Citroen C5 Aircross EV SpiedCurrently, 48V self-charging Hybrid and PHEV versions are on sale and for the first time, we can see a Citroen C5 Aircross EV
      Globally, Stellantis conglomeration is under a major crisis and Citroen, one of its subsidiaries, has been facing tough times as well. Recently, Citroen even called it quits in Australia after operating there for over 100 years. Amidst all these crises, Global Citroen is soldiering ahead with a new all-electric C5 Aircross SUV and seems to be in final stages of testing.
      Citroen C5 Aircross EV Spied
      After launching C3 and C3 Aircross SUVs (global-spec), Citroen has turned its gaze towards C5 Aircross SUV. It has to be noted that C5 Aircross is the largest SUV Citroen makes and is of paramount importance for the brand in the premium segment.
      Citroen C5 Aircross EV Spied
      Even amidst dwindling sales and unsure future of C5 Aircross, Citroen is willing to launch an all-electric version of it, showing its commitment to electric powertrains and its projected future. The test mules of an all-electric Citroen C5 have been spotted for the first time in Southern Europe.
      Currently, Citroen sells a 48V self-charging hybrid and a more advanced plug-in hybrid version of C5 Aircross SUV. But a fully electric model is spotted for the first time. CEO of Stellantis, Carlos Tavares, had confirmed the development of an all-electric Citroen C5 Aircross and a year later, we get to see prototypes in what seems like final stages of testing.
      Citroen C5 Aircross EV Battery
      The test mule in these spy shots carry identical bodywork as outgoing C5 Aircross Hybrid. We can even see a Hybrid badge at the back, which the company hopes will mask the actual identity of this fully-electric test mule. Like hiding in plain sight. Internally, it is known as CR3 and it will be positioned on Stellantis’ STLA Medium platform.
      However, there are a few new elements on this particular test mule suggesting that it is indeed, a fully-electric offering and not a PHEV with a small battery. For starters, there is no exhaust at the back, something both C5 Aircross Hybrid and C5 Aircross PHEV have. Also, there is a giant battery protruding downwards from the floor.
      Citroen C5 Aircross EV Deceiving Hybrid Badge
      What can we expect?
      The 13.2 kWh battery in C5 Aircross PHEV does not protrude downwards like this. This battery unit seems to be stretching across the wheelbase, which was not the case in C5 Aircross PHEV. All these hints and the CEO of Stellantis confirming the development a year ago, suggest that the test mule in this spy shot is indeed, a fully-electric Citroen C5 Aircross EV.
      There won’t be a lot of visual changes between outgoing model and the upcoming C5 Aircross EV. It might be called Citroen e-C5 Aircross, upon launch. Interiors are likely to be carried over too. We can expect a large 86 kWh battery pack with up to 500 km of range on a single charge. Similar to Peugeot E-3008 and Opel Grandland Electric. This particular model is less likely to launch in India.
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      Honda Activa Electric Launch Date Revealed Officially – Entirely New Platform

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      Image for illustration purpose.Activa EV could get a new name and make use of the Honda e:Swap battery swapping technology
      While Honda offers electric two-wheelers in select international markets, the brand is yet to start its EV journey in India. Honda has been working on a new electric scooter for India, but the project has been delayed by around 12 months.
      Honda Activa launch by March 2025
      Tsutsumu Otani, CEO, Honda Motorcycle and Scooter India Ltd., said that Honda Activa has retained the bestseller title for close to two decades. He said that the brand’s electric scooter launch for the Indian market has been delayed by around a year. However, details about what could have caused the delay has not been revealed. But Otani did confirm that Honda’s first electric scooter for India will be launched in March 2025. It is likely to be Activa Electric, although it could go on sale with a different name.
      Honda Activa Electric Scooter Teased
      Honda has been planning an electric two-wheeler for India for several years now. The earlier option was to do an ICE to EV conversion project on the existing Activa. However, that possibility was dismissed, as it did not satisfy Honda’s goal to produce a top-class electric two-wheeler. Honda decided to go with a new, born electric platform, which is exactly what is currently taking shape at the brand’s development centre.
      With a born-electric platform, Honda will be able to offer advanced features with its first electric scooter for India. Examples include connectivity features, touchscreen and keyless entry. Such features would have been challenging to integrate with the existing platform in use with ICE Activa. The new platform is expected to be lightweight, which will help achieve a higher range. A low-drag, aerodynamic design will also help boost range. It will also achieve a sportier profile for the scooter.
      2nd Honda Electric Scooter for India
      Honda e:Swap could be a gamechanger
      Similar to Activa, Honda electric scooter has potential to emerge a bestseller. While the brand’s strong credentials are already advantageous, Honda could improve the overall user experience with its e:Swap battery swapping technology.
      Honda e: Swap
      With the e:Swap system, users won’t have to worry about things like range anxiety or daily hassles like recharging the battery. If the battery is sold as an optional component, the starting price of the electric scooter can also be reduced significantly. With multiple benefits, Honda’s upcoming electric scooter can emerge as a runaway success.
      Honda e:Swap system is already operational in Bengaluru for commercial three-wheelers on a trial basis. It is being run as a joint venture between Honda and the Bangalore Metro Rail Corporation. Battery swapping for electric two-wheelers has already been deployed on a large scale in countries like Taiwan.
      The same can be copied for India, although there will be challenges. Taiwan-based Gogoro also has plans to set up battery swapping stations in India. Honda Activa EV could be launched at a starting price of around Rs 1 lakh. It will take on rivals such as Ather Rizta, Ola S1 X+, Bajaj Chetak, Hero Vida and TVS iQube.
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      Hero Xoom 125R Spied Testing – Ntorq Rival Launch Soon?

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      Hero Xoom 125R SpiedRecently spied Hero Xoom 125R was showcased last year and looks like it is production-ready – Pricing might start around Rs 85K (Ex-sh)
      While we already have Xoom 110 on sale in India by Hero MotoCorp, the company is now expanding its sporty scooter portfolio with two new offerings. Called Xoom 125R and Xoom 160, these upcoming scooters were first showcased at EICMA in Milan, last year. Now, for the first time, Xoom 125R is spied testing in India. Let’s take a look.
      Hero Xoom 125R Spied Testing
      Late last year, Hero MotoCorp showcased two new sporty scooters under the Xoom range. While the larger Xoom 160 stole the show at EICMA, Xoom 125R was equally impressive. It boasts a much sharper design language than Xoom 110, still adhering to overall family genes and design DNA.
      Hero Xoom 125R Spied
      The recent spy shots show upcoming Xoom 125R from the rear. We can see a sporty scooter that is likely to make a bigger splash in the segment than Hero has ever managed to do. Genre-wise, Xoom 125R will rival the likes of TVS Ntorq 125, Suzuki Avenis 125, Honda Dio 125, Yamaha Ray ZR 125 and Aprilia SR 125.
      Interestingly, the rivalry is more suitable with Aprilia SR 125, as Ntorq 125, Avenis 125, Ray ZR 125 and Dio 125 still come equipped with 12-inch wheels or smaller. Xoom 125R is confirmed to get large 14-inch wheels, setting it apart in the crowd. We can see a significant overhaul in design and edginess over Xoom 110.
      Hero Xoom 125R
      Hero MotoCorp has played well with colours and finishes on Xoom 125R and it visually positions it above Xoom 110, being more premium. We can see LED projector headlights with a striking LED DRL signature. Rear LED tail lights are in split design and Hero is offering LED turn indicators at both ends.
      Rider ergonomics is likely to be more upright than rival scooters, suiting taller riders. Overall size lends a feeling of riding something much larger than a 125cc scooter. Practicality is improved with a larger floorboard, twin gloveboxes with USB charger, large under-seat storage with LED light and a large and accommodating seat.
      Hero Xoom 125 Unveiled
      What to expect?
      A few key specs of upcoming Hero Xoom 125R have been revealed. For starters, it will get the same 125cc engine as the new Destini 125 we just reviewed. Performance metrics are slightly different as Xoom 125R will generate 9.4 bhp of peak power at 7,500 RPM and 10.16 Nm of peak torque at 6,000 RPM.
      Instrumentation is fully digital and is similar to the one we saw in Xpulse and other Hero motorcycles. Bluetooth connectivity and notification alerts will be part of the package, along with turn-by-turn navigation. Another notable aspect is that Xoom 125R weighs 120 kg, while Ray ZR 125 weighs under 100 kg.
      Hero Xoom 125R
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      in Electric Cars

      MG Windsor Running Costs Explained – Battery Included In Rs 9.99 Lakh Price

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      MG Windsor EVWith the battery cost not included in the pricing, MG Windsor EV is easily accessible, starting at just Rs 9.99 lakh (Ex-sh)
      MG Motor has launched its third electric offering in India, the Windsor EV, positioned as a CUV. With its quirky design and comprehensive range of advanced features, MG Windsor EV can attract a wide segment of users. Another beneficial aspect is the unique Battery-as-a-Service (BaaS) ownership program.
      MG Windsor Running Cost – Key highlights
      Affordable pricing – With the BaaS in place, MG Windsor EV is available at a starting price of just Rs 9.99 lakh. In comparison, Tata Punch EV starts at Rs 10.99 lakh, whereas Nexon EV is priced at Rs 14.49 lakh. However, customers investing in Windsor EV will have to pay the rental money for using the battery.
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      Battery rental cost – Along with the upfront cost of Rs 9.99 lakh, users will have to pay a battery rental cost of Rs 3.5 per km. There’s a battery rental charge of a minimum of 1,500 km. It implies that users will need to pay Rs 5,250 as a single recharge amount. It is to be noted that this is just the rental for using the battery. The expenses for the charging will be additional.
      Free fast charging for one year – To ensure early adopters are not burdened with high variable costs, MG Motor is offering free fast charging at its charging stations. This offer will run for a year and will be available to only a specific number of initial buyers. MG has not revealed exactly how many customers stand to gain from the free one-year charging.
      MG Windsor BaaS Program
      Lifetime battery warranty – MG Motor is offering the Windsor EV with a lifetime battery warranty. However, this will apply only to the first owner. If the car is sold, the standard warranty of 8 years or 1.6 lakh km will be applicable.
      BaaS to promote faster EV adoption
      High initial cost is among the key reasons why many people are unable to make the switch to EVs. MG Motor has effectively solved the problem with its BaaS ownership program. Even though customers have to bear the rental cost and charging expenses, these will be relatively much smaller amounts. As the battery rental is priced based on kilometres used, it suits the needs of both occasional users and heavy users.
      MG Windsor Benefits
      MG Windsor running costs will be lowered by using the free one-year fast charging option being offered. Users also benefit from the Buyback plan applicable to the CUV. As is evident, MG Motor’s unique ownership program for Windsor EV brings in multiple benefits for customers. Depending on the response, other OEMs may also introduce similar plans shortly.
      The upfront cost of Windsor EV works out cheaper than Punch EV, whereas the equipment list matches that of Nexon EV and Mahindra XUV400. Windsor EV also has various first-in-segment features such as Aero lounge seats with 135° recline and an infinity view glass roof. There’s an extra-large 15.6-inch touchscreen, 256 colour ambient lighting and a 6-way power driver seat.
      MG Windsor EV Variants and Colours More

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      Updated TVS Apache RR 310 Launch On September 16th – What To Expect?

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      2025 TVS Apache RR 310 Spied : Image – MotorradtheorymediaTVS is expected to launch the updated Apache RR 310cc on September 16th, packing the motorcycle with all the features from Apache RTR 310
      The first set of spy shots of an updated Apache RR 310 went viral on the internet recently. These spy shots showed updated bodywork with improved aerodynamics and is expected to get all the gadgetry and electronics that Apache RTR 310 has. Now, TVS has revealed an official launch date, which is set for 16th of September, 2024.
      Updated TVS Apache RR 310
      As seen in the official invite from TVS Motor, we can see the Chang Circuit in Thailand. The lap board shows a few interesting stats like the fastest lap of 1.49.742s and a top speed of 215.9 km/h. As of now, we are not sure whether these numbers are of the production-spec Apache RR 310 or a track-only derivative based on this motorcycle.
      Either way, these numbers demonstrate TVS’ rich racing heritage and pedigree. The company has been promoting safe motorsport activities for a very long time. In the invite, TVS has mentioned “Our machines have shattered records”. “Now they are crafted to redefine excellence”.
      Global premiere of this upcoming TVS Motor motorcycle will happen on 16th September, 3.30 PM IST. This upcoming motorcycle will get all the new electronics and features that we first saw on the Apache RTR 310. The cooled seat feature will probably make it to Apache RR 310 as well.
      2025 TVS Apache RR 310 Spied : Image – Motorradtheorymedia
      TVS has gone overboard with aerodynamics, this time around, and is even offering winglets at the front. These winglets aim to improve aerodynamics. Reducing wingtip vortices and stabilising the motorcycle during braking and cornering are the primary objectives of these winglets.
      Expected Specs & Attributes
      As far as powertrain is concerned, it will be powered by a 312.2 cc reverse-inclined liquid-cooled single-cylinder motor which kicks out 35.08 bhp of peak power and 28.7 Nm of peak torque, similar to Apache RTR 310. Features like a slipper clutch, TPMS, ride-by-wire throttle, a quick-shifter (Bi-directional), and cooled seat are expected features.
      Similar to Apache RTR 310, the updated TVS Apache RR 310 will feature a plethora of electronic rider aids included in the BTO packs. We’re talking about Dynamic stability control, Cornering ABS, Rear lift-off control, Cornering cruise control, Slope dependant control, Cruise control, Wheelie control and Cornering traction control among others.
      All these will be unlocked by a 6-axis IMU on this motorcycle. Bike’s specifications and features are not confirmed yet. More details regarding this motorcycle might emerge in the near future. When launched, it will be rivaling the likes of KTM RC390, Kawasaki Ninja 300, BMW G310 RR and others. More

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      Honda X-Blade Delisted From Website – Discontinued For Good?

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      Honda X-Blade Discontinued?When compared to 150cc to 160cc Apache, Pulsar, FZ, Gixxer and MT offerings, Honda X-Blade didn’t achieve the sales prospect to stay afloat
      With the likes of Activa and Dio, Honda has been India’s 2nd best-selling 2W brand. However, Honda’s volumes are primarily from their scooters and budget commuters. Where 160cc premium motorcycles are concerned, Honda offered X-Blade, which has been now delisted from the official website. Let’s take a look.
      Honda X-Blade Discontinued?
      In India, the premium 150cc to 160cc motorcycle market is quite competitive. It has contenders like Pulsar NS160 and N160 from Bajaj, Apache RTR 160 2V and Apache RTR 160 4V, FZ, FZ-X and MT-15 from Yamaha, Gixxer 150 and Gixxer SF 150 from Suzuki, Xtreme 160R 2V and Xtreme 160R 4V from Hero and the likes.
      Honda X-Blade offered sharp styling and edgy design language, which should have been an instant hit with young audience. However, X-Blade couldn’t make a significant impact on the Indian market as Honda Motorcycles and Scooters India would have hoped.
      After recording unimpressive sales for a long time, Honda India seems to have discontinued it. The motorcycle is delisted from Honda’s official website for Indian market. This could either be a sign of discontinuation or a temporary thing.
      Honda X-Blade Discontinued
      The possibility of it being discontinued is higher, considering its sales performance over the months. If this is not a temporary thing and the delisting on the website is a permanent discontinuation, there will be hefty discounts on existing X-Blade units in the dealer’s stock.
      Honda 2W dealerships will continue to sell X-Blade motorcycles until stocks last. There were four exciting colours on sale – Matte Marvel Blue Metallic, Matte Steel Black Metallic, Strontium Silver Metallic and Sports Red. Within Honda’s lineup, there are other 160cc offerings like Unicorn 160 and SP160, both of which are not positioned at a premium level as X-Blade.
      What did it offer?
      Honda X-Blade came with a 162.71cc single-cylinder air cooled petrol engine with 13.67 bhp of peak power and 14.7 Nm of peak torque, mated to a 5-speed gearbox. Honda X-Blade offered a Robo-faced LED headlight setup, Razor edged tail light setup, and a fully digital instrument cluster featuring gear positioning indicator.
      RSU telescopic front forks, rear mono-shock unit, front and rear disc (petal disc) brake option with single-channel ABS, 130-section rear tyre wrapped on 17-inch alloy wheel, engine stop/start switch, hazard light and a dual-nozzle exhaust canister. With X-Blade out of the picture, it is yet to be confirmed whether Honda will announce a replacement or completely forfeit the premium 160cc segment. More

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      in Electric Cars

      MG Windsor EV Launch Price Rs 9.99L – 331km Range, 136bhp, 200Nm

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      MG Windsor EV launchWith its unique design language, MG Windsor EV is marketed as a CUV, instead of an SUV, catering to a niche with acres of interior space
      With massive ambitions, JSW MG Motor JV has set out their journey together with a product offensive, starting from MG Windsor EV. While MG had ZS EV and Comet EV on sale in India, Windsor EV caters to a different audience. With a starting price of Rs 9.99 lakh (Ex-sh, introductory), Windsor EV emerges as a very tempting proposition, considering everything it offers.
      MG Windsor EV Launch Price
      Advertised as a CUV (Crossover Utility Vehicle), MG Windsor EV is a unique vehicle. We say this because it is a crossover between what looks like a hatchback and an SUV. Unlike the vehicles sold in India (as SUVs) with similar ethos, MG Windsor EV leans more towards the hatchback side, than SUV. These are three variants (Excite, Exclusive & Essence) and four colour options (Turquoise Green, Starburst Black, Pearl White & Clay Beige).
      MG Windsor EV Variants & Colours
      Thus achieving a unique silhouette with soothing lines and an overall friendly appearance. All the sheet metal profiling has been done in a tasteful way and there is large glass area to complement the space on the inside. There are flush door handles along with large 18-inch alloy wheels and all-four disc brakes.
      Split headlight design with connecting LED DRLs, connected LED tail lights, multiple gloss black elements around the body, a very small bonnet and electrically operated tailgate are some of Windsor EV’s notable exterior highlights.
      MG Windsor EV
      According to MG, Windsor EV accentuates the vastness, expansiveness and luxury of Windsor Castle, one of Britain’s most popular tourist attractions. MG also associates Windsor EV’s interiors as “business class” with many comparisons in its marketing material. With up to 1,707L of storage capacity, space is likely to be Windsor EV’s key strength.
      Features and Specifications
      Owing to its large 2,700mm wheelbase and 135-degree reclining Aero-Lounge seats, MG Windsor EV might emerge as the most spacious offering among similarly sized vehicles. Speaking of size, Windsor EV measures 4,295 mm in length, 1,850 mm in width and 1,652 mm in height. There is a 604L boot with all seats up.
      MG Windsor EV
      On the inside, MG Windsor EV offers a plush feeling with many soft-touch elements. Seats get ‘Italian Bubble-Style’ leatherette seat covers, rear seat gets sofa mode with 135-degree recline. Both front seats are electrically adjustable and there is a giant glass roof that lets in a lot of light. Largest-in-class 15.6-inch TFT infotainment screen, 8.8-inch instrument screen dominate the dashboard.
      There’s a wireless charging pad, configurable ambient lighting, automatic climate control, rear AC vents, 9-speakers by Infinity, keyless entry, push-button start, an air filter, home-to-car features, connected car features, electronic parking brake, TPMS and more. Safety-wise, there are 6 airbags and more.
      MG Windsor Interior
      Where powertrains are concerned, MG Windsor EV is powered by a 38 kWh battery pack, good for an ARAI-claimed 331 km of range from a single charge. A single electric motor with 136 bhp of peak power and 200 Nm of peak torque drives the front wheels. There will be DC fast charging too.
      60% resale value under assured buyback program for 3 years, industry-first unlimited km warranty, 1-year free charging at MG e-Hub are notable perks as well. To overcome price disparity between ICE and EV, MG Windsor EV will get battery as a service and then pay per km as you drive along. More