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    Oben Electric Motorcycle Spied Undisguised For First Time

    Oben Electric Motorcycle SpiedOben EV has plans to launch multiple products over the next 6 months; first motorcycle launch in Q1, 2022
    Choices available to customers in electric two-wheeler space has consistently increased in recent years. Oben EV will soon join the list with its electric motorcycle expected to debut in coming weeks. Oben EV will focus on providing customers an optimal mix of style, performance and ease-of-use with its electric two-wheelers.
    Oben EV electric motorcycle spied
    Oben electric motorcycle has a sporty, futuristic design with a tinge of retro thrown in. The latter is evident in the round headlamp. The bike has sharp body panelling all across and even the seats have a chiselled profile. The bike can be seen in dual-tone colour option of red and black. It is likely that more colour options will be made available at the time of launch.
    The bike is expected to offer a comfortable, upright riding stance. It has centrally placed footpegs and ergonomically mounted handlebar. Although dimensional aspects have not been revealed, the bike looks compact in terms of both length and width. Seat height appears just right to allow optimal balance and control.
    Overall, Oben electric motorcycle looks ready to zip through city streets. With ample ground clearance, it also seems capable to effortlessly tackle some rough patches. Ground clearance seems to be a little better than that of current breed of petrol-powered commuter motorcycles.
    Oben Electric Motorcycle Spied
    Oben electric motorcycle range and specs
    With range of 200 km (ideal driving condition), Oben electric motorcycle looks pretty impressive on paper. However, it is likely that range will be less in real life conditions. Range could be higher with regenerative braking, but it is not known yet if Oben electric motorcycle has this feature.
    Claimed range of 200 km is among the best in this segment. If we compare to Revolt RV400, it has range of 150 km. Oben’s range is also higher than Ola S1 Pro electric scooter that has 181 km range.
    Oben electric motorcycle top speed is 100 kmph, which should be sufficient for city needs. Just for comparison, RV400 and Ola S1 Pro have top speed of 80 kmph and 115 kmph, respectively. Talking about acceleration, Oben electric motorcycle can reach 0-40 kmph in 3 seconds. This is the same as that of Ola S1 Pro.
    Oben EV electric motorcycle charging
    Oben electric motorcycle has charging time of just 2 hours. In comparison, RV400 can be charged from 0-100% in around 4.5 hours. It remains to be seen if Oben EV will setup up its own charging network or partner with third-party EV recharging stations.
    Oben EV electric motorcycle has more than 16 patented innovations. It includes a new battery pack that utilizes maximum heat exchanging (MHX) technology. It ensures that the battery stays cool even when the motorcycle is continuously driven at high speeds.
    Connectivity features including IoT are also expected to be offered as standard with Oben electric motorcycle. Users will be able to access a range of data and analytics about their rides. More

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    New TVS Electric Scooter Spied Testing For First Time – 2022 Launch

    New TVS Electric ScooterWith incremental e-commerce growth across varied segments, the B2B space presents significant opportunity for EV manufacturers
    TVS is among the auto companies that have made aggressive plans to target the EV space. Investments worth Rs 1,200 have been earmarked for the purpose. A significant portion of the funds will be utilized to setup a new manufacturing facility that will cater to EVs such scooters, motorcycles, three-wheelers, etc.
    New TVS Electric Scooter Spied
    Latest spy shots reveal a new electric scooter on road tests near TVS manufacturing facility in Hosur, Tamil Nadu. These exclusive spy shots are credit to automotive enthusiast V Mathpati. Design of the e-scooter indicates that it is most likely a load carrier, meant for last-mile deliveries in B2B and B2C space. It has a flat seat with space at the rear for loading cargo items. The flat floorboard also has ample space for cargo.
    TVS new electric scooter has sober styling with minimal body panels. It appears to be using large alloy wheels, possibly 12-inch units. These will come handy for optimal control and balance during cargo operations. Suspension system comprises telescopic forks at front and dual rear shock absorbers. The scooter has a rectangular, full-digital instrument console.
    While specs of TVS new electric scooter are not available, it could be close to that of iQube. The latter is equipped with a 2.25kWh battery pack that powers a 4.4kW hub-mounted BLDC motor. It generates 3kW power and peak torque of 140 Nm. iQube claimed range is 75km. This new TVS scooter could get a larger battery, delivering higher range.
    New TVS Electric Scooter
    When launched, TVS new electric scooter will primarily take on Honda Benly e electric scooter. Benly e is scheduled for launch in India next year. Honda is moving fast with its plans and has already setup a new subsidiary in India.
    This unit will focus on manufacturing battery packs, as required for Honda’s upcoming electric scooters, motorcycles and other small EVs. The subsidiary will also manage technologies and operations related to battery charging and swapping infrastructure.
    TVS charging network expansion
    To ensure users don’t have to face issues like range anxiety, TVS is building a vast network of charging stations. This is being done in collaboration with other entities such as Tata Power. As per the agreement between the two companies, the focus will be on increasing use of solar power across charging stations.
    New TVS Electric Scooter
    TVS charging network will cater to both personal vehicles and cargo carriers in two-wheeler and three-wheeler segment. It will have both AC charging network as well as DC fast-charging network.
    The strategic partnership with Tata is significant, as the company already operates around 700 public chargers across 120 cities. The company also has presence across home and workplace charging and captive charging stations.
    Along with commuter and cargo segment, TVS will also be targeting the premium EV segment. For this, TVS has expanded its partnership with BMW to include design and development of new electric scooters, motorcycles and concepts. More

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    New Jawa Cruiser Spied Testing In Pune – Launch Expected In 2022

    New Jawa Cruiser SpiedLikely to be powered by Perak’s 334cc engine, Jawa cruiser will be a better match against 350cc segment rivals
    Launched in 2018, Jawa motorcycles have emerged as popular options for retro enthusiasts. While existing models continue to deliver consistent sales, Jawa is looking to further boost numbers by expanding its portfolio.
    Jawa range will be extended to include new products, one of which will be a cruiser bike. This was recently spotted on road test in Pune. Thanks to Suyog Phadtare for sharing the exclusive spy shot of new Jawa cruiser.
    Jawa cruiser styling and features
    Just like other Jawa bikes, the cruiser focuses on retro styling bits. Some key features include round headlamp and rear-view mirrors, tear-drop shaped fuel tank and turn signals, broad rear fender, and comfy wide seat.
    Dimensionally, Jawa cruiser appears to be around the same size as Perak. It is possible that it could share the same platform as that of Perak, with a bit of tuning. The upcoming Jawa Cruiser has a pillion seat, which is much larger than any other Jawa motorcycle on sale today. Also, the rear suspension setup is that of twin-shocks, instead of a monoshock that is seen on Perak.
    New Jawa Cruiser Spied
    Side profile is pretty skeletal with just the radiator, engine and side cover. The bike has dual exhaust pipes in a sober, minimalistic design. Users can expect a throaty aural experience, similar to or even better than existing Jawa motorcycles. The test mule spotted had a dark theme, evident in blacked-out parts such as crash guard, exhaust, engine, and wheels. At launch, the bike is likely to be offered in multiple colour options.
    Talking about ergonomics, Jawa cruiser has a comfortable, upright riding stance. The bike has raised, wide handlebar and forward set footpegs. The wide seat with ample cushioning should ensure optimal comfort for both rider and pillion.
    Footpegs for pillion are also placed in a forward position. It is possible that Jawa cruiser may get Bluetooth-based connectivity features. The test mule was spotted with inverted speedo, which is already offered with existing Jawa bikes.
    New Jawa Cruiser Spied
    Jawa cruiser engine and specs
    Powering Jawa cruiser could be the same 334 cc engine that currently does duty on Perak. The single cylinder, liquid cooled, DOHC engine is capable of generating 30.64 ps of max power and 32.74 Nm of peak torque. It is mated to a constant mesh 6-speed gearbox.
    Jawa cruiser has standard telescopic forks at front and dual rear shock absorbers. The bike could be offered with options for both alloy and spoke wheels. It will have disc brakes at both ends, integrated with dual-channel ABS. Upon launch, it might not have any direct rival in the 350cc segment. In the price segment, it will continue to rival the range of 350cc motorcycles from Royal Enfield. If Bajaj Avenger 400 is launched, that could also be a potential rival.
    New Jawa Cruiser Spied
    After Jawa, Mahindra-owned Classic Legends is working to revive other iconic motorcycle brands such as Yezdi and BSA. Yezdi is expected to focus on Indian market, whereas BSA will target European markets, starting with UK.
    Yezdi bikes spotted on road tests include Roadking and an ADV motorcycle. Roadking will take on upcoming Royal Enfield Hunter 350 whereas the ADV will rival Royal Enfield Himalayan. Both Yezdi bikes are expected to be unveiled by end of this year or early next year. More

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    Upcoming Mahindra KUV100 Electric Leaks Via Official Website

    Upcoming Mahindra KUV100 Electric. Hat tip – Devi V Prasad ReddyMahindra KUV100 Electric will be positioned as an entry-level EV against Tata Tigor EV and the upcoming Maruti WagonR electric
    Mahindra, like all major automakers, has been planning to venture into electric mobility with passenger vehicles for quite some time now. Unfortunately, there have been numerous delays for some obvious reasons. Test mules of what appears to be the production-spec eKUV100 have been recently spotted.
    The electric car made its first appearance as a pre-production concept at last year’s AutoExpo. Since then, there have been no developments regarding eKUV100 until now, when the e-SUV has made its debut on the official website of Mahindra Electric. Hat tip to automotive enthusiast Devi V Prasad Reddy, for sharing the update.
    Exterior Styling
    It has been pitched as an entry-level EV for the masses in the Indian auto market. For most parts of it, the exterior styling of KUV100 Electric is in line with its IC engine-powered sibling except for the closed-off front grille due to absence of a radiator.
    The grille also offers improved aerodynamics and features small arrow-shaped inserts, six of which are finished in blue. The electric crossover gets two charging ports, one on each front fender. In addition, there are blue highlights on headlamps and taillamps.
    Upcoming Mahindra KUV100 Electric. Image – Mahindra Electric
    The front bumper houses a very wide air inlet which also gets a tow hook in case the car gets stuck somewhere. The number plate housing at the tailgate features a thick chrome plate at the top with interesting ‘+’ and ‘-’ signs on it. All other design elements are similar to the fossil-fueled KUV100. There are also some subtle styling differences spotted in the test mule in comparison to the concept showcased at AutoExpo last year.
    For example, the model at AutoExpo stood on alloy wheels with a different design which featured blue inserts on each of its spokes. Further, the charging flap wore Mahindra Electric (ME) badging while the C-pillar flaunted a unique triangular badge. The e-KUV100 in the picture is seen wrapped under a dark shade of blue. It is also seen wearing black body claddings over wheel arches and door panels.
    Specifications
    At the time of its display in the biennial auto event, Mahindra had disclosed some of its specifications. The eKUV100 concept was fitted with a 15.9kWh battery pack which sent power to a single electric motor mounted on the front axle. The resultant power output stands at 54 bhp (40kW) and 120 Nm of torque.
    This powertrain could return a range of 147 km on a single charge. These are very modest figures from every standard. The battery could be charged from zero to 100 percent in 5hr 45min using a regular AC charger (on the front right fender flap).
    Using a DC fast charger, 0-80 percent of the battery could be replenished within 55 minutes (on the front left fender flap). Mahindra had priced the EV crossover at Rs 8.25 lakh back then. At the time of its launch, it could be offered at a price of Rs 9-11 lakh (ex-showroom). More

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    2022 KTM RC390 Photos Leak Via Official Website Ahead Of Debut

    2022 KTM RC 390 Photos LeakUnofficial bookings for the upcoming new gen 2022 KTM RC 390 has already opened at select dealerships – Launch is expected in coming weeks
    KTM is in the process of updating its RC range including RC 125, 200 and 390. RC390 could be the first to be launched in its new-gen avatar. Photos of the 2022 KTM RC 390 have now leaked via official website.
    Earlier today, KTM seems to have made the new gen RC390 website LIVE by mistake. It was soon taken down. But not before automotive enthusiast Yadu Krishnan managed to save the same. Thanks to this, we now have detailed photos of the new gen 2022 KTM RC 390.
    New KTM RC390 design and styling
    Seen in a dual tone livery of Blue and Orange shade, new RC390 could gets a single LED headlamp in place of the existing twin projector headlights at the front. The new unit could be similar to the one currently in use with 390 Duke. Trendy DRLs are also expected to enhance the overall look and feel of the front fascia. The fuel tank looks larger on new RC390, which means lesser stops at fuel stations. The current model can carry max 9.5 litres of fuel.
    Another key change can be seen in the riding position of the updated bike. New RC390 appears to have relaxed ergonomics, something similar to what you would expect from a sports-tourer. This is evident in the slightly higher-up handlebars and more forward-set foot pegs. Pillion comfort also seems to have been improved with new RC390. The height of pillion seat is just right and foot pegs are forward set, as compared to that of current model.
    2022 KTM RC 390 Photos Leak
    The fairing has undergone a major refresh, although it carries on with the core theme of double-layer design. Whether it’s better than the current version is a subjective matter, better left to user interpretations.
    2022 KTM RC390 engine and specs
    Engine will be same as earlier, a 373cc single cylinder, liquid cooled unit that is capable of generating 43 hp of max power and 35 Nm of peak torque. It is mated to a 6-speed transmission. The only possibility is that a few tweaks could be introduced to achieve improved reliability. This engine has been in use since around a decade now. KTM has consistently improved it over the years, including changes that were required to meet new emission norms.
    Chassis appears to be updated; a bolt-on sub-frame in place of the welded-on design of current model. Suspension system seems to be same as earlier – USD forks at the front and a monoshock unit at the rear with braced alloy swingarm. However, KTM could introduce tweaks that would make the rides more comfortable.
    2022 KTM RC 390 exhaust end can is seen with a mesh cover.
    Wheels and braking setup has also been updated on new RC390. The bike could get some advanced features such as traction control, lean angle-sensitive ABS and bi-directional quickshifter. These features are currently available with 390 Adventure. New RC390 could also get a new Bluetooth-enabled colour TFT instrument console.
    It is likely that new KTM RC390 could be launched in the coming weeks, most likely this month. However, considering the unpredictability surrounding Covid pandemic, things could get delayed. When launched, new RC390 is expected to be around costlier than the current version. The current model retails at a starting price of Rs 2.77 lakh, after the price hike last month. More

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    Ola Electric Scooter Bookings Open At Rs 499 – Pink, Blue Colours Spied

    Ola Electric Scooter – New ColoursThe yet unnamed Ola electric scooter will receive best-in-segment under seat storage space, category-leading long range charge and keyless, app-based access
    We have long been talking about the new Ola electric scooter that is now getting ready for launch. Test mules under heavy camouflage have been doing the rounds since the start of this year. Ola has revealed their electric scooter for India in its production ready guise already.
    More recently, Bhavish Aggarwal, OLA Group CEO and Chairman, has tweeted on the upcoming Ola electric scooter. He has offered insights into its onboard features, some of which are said to be best in class with under-seat storage space as reports claims to offer 50 liters of storage space. Other exclusive features will also include keyless, app-based access along with category leading long range charge.
    Features that the new Ola e-scooter will also get could include a digital instrument cluster, cloud connectivity, alloy wheels, a removable lithium battery pack and telescopic suspension. The company’s advertising team had also released some ‘crazy ads’ and Aggarwal’s tweet also indicated that anyone with ideas on marketing could get in touch with the company or re-tweet.
    New Colours
    Ola Electric scooter has already been revealed in black and white colour options via studio images. Just recently, Ola CEO had asked on twitter what colour options should the Ola electric scooter be offered with. Now, thanks to anonymous automotive enthusiast, the upcoming Ola Electric scooter is seen in Blue and Pink colour options.
    Ola Electric Scooter – New Colours
    Starting today, consumers can book their Ola Scooter on olaelectric(dot)com by paying a refundable deposit of Rs 499. OLA CEO announced on twitter – “India’s EV revolution begins today! Bookings now open for the Ola Scooter! India has the potential to become the world leader in EVs and we’re proud to lead this charge!” Those who book now will get priority delivery.
    Ola Electric Scooter Range – 122 kms with 87% charge
    Ola Plant with Industry 4.0 norms
    Ola Electric is currently working on setting up a state of the art production unit and has also entered into an agreement with Siemens for the plant in Krishnagiri district of Tamil Nadu, at an investment of Rs.2,400 crores. The facility will have full capacity of 10 million units per annum making it the world’s largest two-wheeler factory.
    The Ola Tamil Nadu plant will help to generate around 10,000 employment opportunities and will comply with Industry 4.0 norms. Besides catering to the demands in Indian markets will also focus on exports to countries of Europe, Asia and Latin America.
    Ola Electric Scooter – New Colours
    Class-Leading Speed, Performance and Range
    The Ola electric scooter to be launched in India sometime in second half of 2021, will have a maximum range of 240 kms per single charge. Acceleration from 0 to 45 km/h will be achieved in 3.9 seconds while top speed will be at above 80 km/h. The Ola e-scooter could be priced in around Rs 1 lakh and will rival the likes of the Ather 450X, Bajaj e-Chetak, TVS iQube and other e-scooters also set for launch in our markets in the near future. More

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    Yamaha XSR 250 Spied Testing For The First Time – Bajaj Dominar Rival?

    2021 Yamaha XSR 250 Spied TestingA new test mule has been spotted on Yamuna Expressway – Believed to be Yamaha XSR 250 for the Indian market
    In recent years, the popularity of retro classic motorcycles has found a new resurgence in India with new players other than Royal Enfield like Jawa, Benelli and Honda making an entry into this segment and garnering the attention of traditional motorcyclists. However, mass-selling manufacturers haven’t yet shown any interest in venturing into this space anytime soon.
    However, it seems Yamaha might be making some progress in this regard. It is already known that the Japanese bikemaker retails XSR 155 retro-style motorcycle in international markets. This bike is based on the same underpinnings and powertrain as YZF R15 V3 and its naked sibling MT15.
    XSR 250 in making?
    As of now, the launch of XSR 155 has not been confirmed by Yamaha but we think the company might want to build a retro motorcycle at a higher segment for the Indian market. This model might cater to the competitive quarter-litre class of motorcycles and might wear the ‘XSR’ branding. In fact, earlier in 2019, it was reported that the Japanese manufacturer was indeed planning to extend its XSR lineup in its global lineup of products.
    Now, spy images of a test motorcycle have been clicked on Yamuna Expressway by automotive enthusiast Junaid. Though there is no branding seen on the said motorcycle, Yamaha has been known to test their upcoming motorcycles on this highway often.
    2021 Yamaha XSR 250 Spied Testing
    At this point in time, it is very difficult to make an accurate presumption about this bike. However, going by these spy shots, the silhouette is very similar to images of the possible XSR 250 prototype which made its appearance in an Indonesian auto magazine in 2019.
    The test mule is wearing similar alloys, front suspension to those of existing Yamaha motorcycles like the FZ series. The engine unit also looks similar. It delivers a more relaxed riding position with large seat and good cushioning. It also seems to have a larger fuel tank – all points indicating towards this new motorcycle being a highway cruiser. Instrument cluster seen is a digital unit.
    Expected Specifications
    The motorcycle’s design is expected to feature retro bodywork along the lines of XSR family and positioned between XSR 155 and XSR 750. It is likely to be powered by the same 250cc engine which powers the FZ25 in India. This unit delivers about 21 PS and 20 Nm via 5 speed gearbox.
    2021 Yamaha XSR 250 Spied Testing
    Suspension setup is likely to comprise inverted telescopic forks at front and mono-shock at rear. Braking duties will be handled by a single disc at each end assisted by dual-channel ABS as standard. A prototype of this was earlier speculated to make its debut at last year’s Auto Expo, however, that didn’t happen. With test mule now on the road, expect the launch of this new Yamaha XSR motorcycle to take place in a few months.
    If not the 250, this new Yamaha motorcycle could be powered by a 149cc unit, which powers the FZ FI and FZS FI currently. If that is the case, this test mule could be the Indianized version of XSR 155 which is currently on sale in the international market. Yamaha India has already launched R15, MT15 in similar style – lower features to keep costs in check. Yamaha has stronger sales in the 150 cc segment and launching a 150cc XSR will definitely help the company further strengthen their market share in the segment.
    Yamaha XSR 150 or the XSR 250 ?
    Yamaha 250cc Sales
    The 250cc segment is growing rapidly. Recently, Bajaj launched multiple motorcycles in this segment, and has plans to launch even more. Yamaha already have a localized 250cc engine, which makes it a more logical choice for this upcoming motorcycle.
    FZ25 sales have been below expectations (0 units sold in Feb 2021) and launching more motorcycles in 250cc segment, will help Yamaha benefit better from this engine that has been specially developed for India. It is highly localized, allowing Yamaha to price the FZ25 competitively in the Rs 1.6 lakh range (ex-sh). Expect the Yamaha XSR250 to be priced in a similar range. Once launched, it could take on the likes of Bajaj Dominar 250 as well as could be a more affordable option against the likes of Honda CB350 and Royal Enfield Classic 350. More

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    New Yezdi Or Jawa Scrambler Test Mule Spied – RE Hunter, CB350RS Rival

    New Yezdi or Jawa Scrambler on testThe crank case design of the engine is remarkable similar to that of the Yezdi RoadKing
    An interesting new camouflaged prototype of a retro-classic scrambler was spotted testing along the Pune to Nashik highway. While the identity of the test mule was concealed, there are some strong clues which point towards it being the upcoming Yezdi motorcycle under Classic Legends. It could also be the Jawa Scrambler that is currently in the works.
    Is it a new Yezdi motorcycle?
    We all know that Classic Legends, a part of Mahindra, is working on reviving BSA and Yezdi brands after bringing back the venerable Jawa nameplate to life. With added support from Mahindra in terms of hiring new personnel both in India and abroad to support the projects, Classic Legends’ medium term plans seem to be afoot at a brisk pace.
    New Yezdi or Jawa Scrambler on test
    When Classic Legends derived the new Jawa Motorcycles from the Mahindra Mojo platform, particular care was taken to replicate the brand’s vintage design traits including the crankcase. In the same fashion, the test mule which was spied recently, although devoid of production spec body panels, does feature a crankcase which is pretty similar to the yesteryear’s Yezdi RoadKing.
    Design
    The prototype is still far away from being production ready but we can see that it is progressing towards a scrambler body style. The cantilevered tailpiece, the tyres, riding posture and the general minimalist approach are expected to be carried forward to the final version as well.
    Engine casing resembles Yezdi
    We also expect the motorcycle to be equipped with modern features like LED taillight, a digital console (at least partially digital) and dual-channel ABS. From what we can see, the motor is a liquid-cooled unit with twin-silencers.
    New Yezdi or Jawa Scrambler on test
    The exhaust canister is still work in progress, but the configuration reminds us of the first iteration of Mojo. The new Yezdi motorcycle’s displacement should be around 300 cc. Power is estimated to be in the same ballpark as the Jawa siblings – around 27 to 30 hp.
    Market positioning
    Yezdi brand still evokes a strong sense of nostalgia among the Indian motorcycle enthusiasts. The new motorcycle will benefit from the lessons Classic Legends learnt from the execution of its Jawa projects. The upcoming motorcycle, from the looks of it, is expected to be positioned as a sportier alternative to the Jawa models. Competition will come from the likes of newly launched Honda CB350RS and the upcoming Royal Enfield Hunter 350.
    Classic Legends is also working on reviving BSA, yet another long forgotten two wheeler brand that has a strong potential in the current times. While Mahindra could not make the Mojo work commercially, it surely has found a way to extract the untapped potential of the platform through Classic Legends’ business model. More