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      2024 Husqvarna Svartpilen 401 spied undisguised – Next to Bajaj Boxer

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      2024 Husqvarna Svartpilen 401 spiedThe same 399cc (rumoured) single-cylinder engine from 2024 KTM 390 Duke is likely to be part of Husqvarna Svartpilen 401 and Vitpilen 401Bajaj Auto manufactures KTM and Husqvarna motorcycles under 400cc at their plant near Pune in India. Now, a new gen Husqvarna Svartpilen 401 production-spec motorcycle has been spied undisguised inside a Bajaj Auto plant, as standing next to it is the export spec Bajaj Boxer.In India, Husqvarna only offers their 250cc range, and not the 401s. Will that change with the launch of this new gen motorcycle? Only time will tell. From the spy shots, it seems like the 2024 Husqvarna Svartpilen 401 gets the same set of updates that recently spied 2024 KTM 390 Duke received.2024 Husqvarna Svartpilen 401 spied – The Black ArrowOf the two motorcycles offered by Husqvarna, Svartpilen is a neo-retro scrambler-ish offering, while Svartpilen is a neo-retro cafe racer. This particular model lacks a tank rack, wire-spoke rims, upright handlebar and block-pattern tyres that are historically reminiscent of Svartpilen.Both next-gen Husqy twins will carry the same set of updates that next-gen KTM 390 Duke is getting. We’re talking about a brand new tubular trellis frame and an updated 399cc (rumoured) engine with more performance than the outgoing 373cc unit.Other notable changes similar to the new Duke include adjustable USD front forks from WP, a banana-shaped swingarm, an underbelly exhaust, an off-set rear mono-shock suspension with rebound adjust and more. Apart from KTM-sourced componentry, there are generational changes to new-gen Huskies as opposed to outgoing models.Changes from outgoing modelFor starters, the new bike looks bigger. Apart from that, we hope for better pillion comfort and better fit and finish and less exposed wiring. The new tail section is now at the rear subframe, rather than on its tyre hugger. This change is likely to apply to both Svartpilen and Vitpilen.Previous set of spy shots featured a test mule with block-pattern tyres, wire-spoke rims, a taller handlebar, and a rack on the fuel tank. This is likely to be a Scrambler variant of Svartpilen. Most of the electronic goodies from next gen KTM 390 Duke are likely to be a part of new gen Husqvarna Vitpilen 401 and Svartpilen 401 as well.India launch is likely as there is a saree guard present on the spied motorcycle. Husqvarna’s popularity in the Indian premium motorcycle segment is far less than KTM’s. We would wager that Husqvarna wants to upgrade itself in India and improve from the 100 motorcycles sold in April 2023.Image Source More

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      New KTM 390 Duke production starts – Gets bigger 399cc engine?

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      New KTM 390 Duke production startsThe new engine on 2023 KTM 390 Duke will probably displace 399cc as opposed to 373cc in outgoing model – 45+ bhp and 40+ Nm torque is possibleProspect of a new KTM 390 Duke is an exciting one. For there are a lot of updates coming with it. From a revised engine to new design, this 2023 update for KTM’s highest selling motorcycle is an important one. The updates on this will define other motorcycles like RC 390 and 390 Adventure as well.Launch seems to be nearing as there are more spy shots of production-spec models. The recent spy shot shows an uncamouflaged new KTM 390 Duke from the front at what appears to be Bajaj manufacturing plant in Pune. We can see a bunch of Pulsar motorcycles in the background.New KTM 390 Duke spied againThe last sighting of this motorcycle was abroad and on road and it didn’t feature camouflage too. Given the frequent sightings, we would wager that launch might be nearing. KTM is yet to disclose whether the new 390 Duke will debut in India or abroad.Regardless, we like what we see. KTM has stuck to its edgy design language but executed it differently with its latest iteration. There are multiple inspirations from the bigger 1290 Super Duke R. Even the new 390 Duke’s colour is a direct inspiration from Super Duke R. Headlights follow a similar theme as the outgoing model, but executed differently.New KTM 390 Duke production startsLED DRL signature is now not continuous as in the outgoing model and is an overall smaller unit. There is a new TFT display as well. KTM has placed it higher for easy visibility. Fuel tank is slightly different and gets pronounced tank shrouds. These lend a lot of character and aggression to the motorcycle. Frame and new 5-spoke alloys are finished in bright Orange, typical KTM.That said, both alloys and trellis frame are brand new along with rear subframe, split design seats and rear tail lights. There is a ‘T’ shape in the tail light LED signature that reminds me of TVS Ronin’s headlight LED signature. Disc rotors are now bolted directly on alloys and calipers are radially mounted too as before.Has displacement gone up to 399cc?The main change could be in its engine. A new engine architecture is evident from spy shots. Speculations suggest a larger 399cc displacement along with 45+ bhp of power and 40+ Nm of torque. For context, outgoing 390 Duke displaces 373cc and generates 42.9 bhp of power and 37 Nm of torque.Bump in features is likely too. We expect additions like traction control and cornering ABS, both of which are already present with RC 390 and 390 Adventure. Asking for wheelie control would be pushing it a little. That said, features like Quickshifter+ (bi-directional clutchless shifts), ride-by-wire, Bluetooth connectivity, will be on offer like on the outgoing model. More

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      Himalayan 450 Speedo Spied – Clean View, Simple Design

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      Himalayan 450 Speedo SpiedHimalayan 450’s speedo ensures a clutter-free cockpit in comparison to the multi-dial setup seen with current Himalayan 411Royal Enfield has been testing the new Himalayan 450 since several months. Test mules have been spotted multiple times across India and overseas locations as well. Latest spy shots reveal a clear view of Himalayan 450’s speedometer. Hat tip to automotive enthusiast Nitesh from Chennai, for sharing these exclusive spy shots.Himalayan 450 is expected to be launched later this year in September. It is likely to debut at 2023 EICMA. The bike could be offered in the price range of Rs 2.5 lakh to Rs 3 lakh. Himalayan 450 will go up against rivals like KTM 390 Adventure, BMW G310GS and Yezdi Adventure.Himalayan 450 Speedo detailsWith Himalayan 450, all the instrumentation has been packed into a single, circular shaped console. It is quite big, possibly slightly larger than the round rear-view mirrors of the bike. Anywhere between 4 to 6 inches of diameter is a fair guess. The RPM gauge is placed towards the outer circumference of the console whereas the gear position indicator and speedometer are displayed centrally. Other information such as fuel indicator, trip meter, etc. are likely to be displayed on the digital screen.Himalayan 450’s speedometer console is placed at around 60° – 70° angle, which provides a clear view to the rider. It is also placed higher with the help of mounting brackets. A quick glance should be enough and riders won’t need to take their eyes off the road completely.Himalayan 450 Speedo SpiedRoyal Enfield has done a good job to choose a simple and practical design for Himalayan 450’s speedometer. It is much better than the instrumentation seen with existing Himalayan 411.Current Himalayan has four separate dials. There are two analogue dials, with one for fuel gauge. The main console is a semi-digital unit with analogue speedometer and digital trip meter and clock. There’s a fourth digital dial for gear indicator. This setup has its own benefits and visual appeal, but a single console seems more practical. Himalayan 450 speedometer is likely to have Bluetooth based connectivity features.Himalayan 450 performance, specsRoyal Enfield Himalayan 450 will be getting a new liquid cooled engine, mated to a 6-speed gearbox. It is expected to deliver around 30 bhp of max power and 40 Nm of peak torque. A decent gain over the current Himalayan 411 that churns out 24.31 PS and 32 Nm.Himalayan 450 Speedo SpiedQuite a few users have reported performance issues with current Himalayan, which can be overcome with the new Himalayan 450. With higher power and torque, Himalayan 450 will be in a better position to take on the likes of KTM 390 Adventure.Other key highlights of new Himalayan 450 include LED lighting, tall windscreen, stubby exhaust, USD front forks and rear monoshock suspension. The bike is expected to have a long wheelbase, which will improve cross-wind protection and straight-line stability. Himalayan 450 could get a smaller sized front wheel to make it more appropriate for shorter riders. Current Himalayan has a 21-inch front wheel as standard. More

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      2023 Royal Enfield Meteor 350 Spied Testing – Gets LED Headlight

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      2023 Royal Enfield Meteor 350Meteor 350 could become the first 350cc motorcycle from Royal Enfield to feature an LED headlight setupRoyal Enfield rules the 350cc motorcycle segment. In April 2023, their sales in the 350cc segment were over 62k units. Despite having a market share of over 90% in the segment, Royal Enfield continues to be focused on updating their 350cc motorcycles.In comes MY2023 RE Meteor 350, spied testing for the first time. This particular test mule is based on top-spec Supernova trim, but features wire-spoke rims, a silver-finished engine bay and for the first time in Royal Enfield’s 350cc portfolio, an LED headlight. Let’s take a look at everything new.MY2023 RE Meteor 350 Spotted TestingWith this MY2023 update, Royal Enfield is aiming at adding a few more features to the Meteor 350. These new updates with Meteor 350 are likely to bring more retro-ness and classic-ness.We say this because Meteor 350 has always embraced a neo-retro cruiser look, instead of a classic cruiser look. Elements lending Meteor 350 a neo-retro appeal are alloy wheels and a blackened engine bay. Royal Enfield is bringing more chrome into the equation that will uplift its classic appeal considerably.2023 Royal Enfield Meteor 350More chrome is in the form of wire-spoke rims, engine bay finish (think Classic 350 Chrome Red) and headlight housing garnish. Adding more retro charm is an all-new front fender too. Rather, an all-new mud guard for the front fender brings an old-world charm of the yesteryears. Hat tip to automotive enthusiast Aditya Raja for sharing these exclusive spy shots.Mechanically similar to current modelThis new test mule is based on top-spec Supernova trim. Except for the new LED headlights, design changes and chrome additions are less likely to feature on Fireball and Stellar variants. Fuel tank is similar to the current model too. So, no 20L fuel tank like RE offered on the Thunderbird 350 and 500.Mechanically, the same 349cc J-series engine will power the MY2023 RE Meteor 350. Performance figures stand at 20.2 bhp of power at 6100 RPM and 27 Nm of torque at 4000 RPM, mated to the same 5-speed gearbox. The wire-spoke rim variant of Supernova trim along with new chrome additions will probably sell alongside existing variant with black engine bay and alloy wheel.2023 Royal Enfield Meteor 350While LED headlights will be part of the entire variant range. A small price hike could be associated with this update. Currently, Meteor 350 range costs Rs. 2.04 lakh for Fireball, Rs. 2.10 lakh for Stellar and Rs. 2.25 lakh for Supernova trims (all prices ex-sh). More

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      2024 Mahindra XUV700 electric spied testing – Launch next year

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      Mahindra XUV700 Electric Spied Testing. Image – MotorbeamMahindra will launch XUV700 electric version as the XUV800 sometime next yearMahindra is betting big on EVs. Recently, they announced an investment of Rs. 10K crore, part of which will be used to manufacture electrified XUVs and its all-new BE series of electric cars.Last year Mahindra showcased five electric cars at M.A.D.E headquarters in the UK. Two of them will be electrified XUVs and three will be “Born Electric”. First of these five will be XUV.e8 or XUV800, an electrified version of XUV700. The same has now been spied on test.Mahindra XUV700 Electric Spotted TestingThe Mahindra XUV700 electric test mule seen here is finished Satin Copper shade, which Mahindra uses as a signifying colour on their XUV based electric cars. Similar shade was used as accent colour on the first XUV.e8 prototype which was showcased in the UK last year.There will be a few design changes between the current petrol / diesel XUV700 and the upcoming electric XUV700. These will be similar changes like we see on the XUV300 and the XUV400.Mahindra XUV700 Electric SUV – Full dashboard touchscreen. Image – OverdriveOn the inside, there will be a triple display setup as opposed to the dual display setup on the outgoing XUV700. This triple display setup first debuted in XUV.e8’s working prototype. One of these displays will be driver’s instrumentation. Center one will be for infotainment while the third one will be for front passenger.The INGLO Platform is in-line with global standardsMahindra’s electric cars will be based on the INGLO platform. This new electric platform is modular and scalable. Mahindra has revealed battery variations will be between 60 kWh and 80 kWh and both RWD single motor and AWD dual motor layouts are likely too.Mahindra has partnered with Volkswagen for the INGLO platform. CEO of VW Group Components, Thomas Schmall, has revealed that their partnership with Mahindra will support 10 lakh vehicles over this platform’s lifetime.Demand for electric cars is on the rise in India. Currently, Tata Motors holds the crown in electric cars segment with over 75% market share. But Mahindra is catching up. When launched, XUV.e8 or XUV800 is likely to cost about Rs. 35 lakh. Launch of the Mahindra XUV700 electric is likely to take place sometime next year.Image Source More

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      Royal Enfield Himalayan 450 wheelbase in focus – Is this the longest RE?

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      Royal Enfield Himalayan 450 spiedThe new 450cc engine on Royal Enfield Himalayan 450 is likely to generate around 30 bhp of power and 40 Nm of torque, mated to a 6-speed gearboxRoyal Enfield Himalayan is a very popular motorcycle which has captivated ADV fans not only in India, but in global markets as well. Current version is based on the 411cc platform. Royal Enfield is readying a 450cc platform to spawn 5 different motorcycles. First of which, will be Himalayan 450.The new spy shots lend a whole new perspective on how long Himalayan 450 will be, thanks to a really long wheelbase. Visually longer than Himalayan 411’s 1,465mm wheelbase. If that is the case, Himalayan 450 will be the longest wheelbase in Royal Enfield’s product portfolio. Also, there is a very good possibility that Himalayan might not come with 21” front wheel as standard.Royal Enfield Himalayan 450 may not get 21″ front wheels as standardRoyal Enfield’s new camouflaging strategies involve cardboard and plastic corrugated sheets as well. Automotive enthusiast Guru Prasad Viswanathan spotted this test mule. The new spy shots lend perspectives, two of which are of stark prominence.One, Himalayan 450 will pack a really long wheelbase. And two, this test mule seems to be equipped with a 17” or 18” front rim. It could be the camera’s angle or uneven terrain, but this wire-spoke front rim doesn’t look like it is 21” in size as outgoing Himalayan 411 and previous test mules.Royal Enfield Himalayan 450 spiedThis might be a conscious choice by Royal Enfield to offer a low seat height for shorter riders. Something similar to KTM 390 Adventure V with suspension components from 390 Duke. Most Himalayan 450 buyers in the future might appreciate this gesture as it aids in handling this motorcycle and flat-footing capability. This version will have reduced ground clearance. Current Himalayan 411 has a 17” rear wheel. New Himalayan 450 could sport an 18” rear wheel like that of an Xpulse 200.Longer wheelbase increases straight-line stabilityOther notable elements include USD front telescopic forks and rear mono shock unit (both non adjustable), a large circular instrument console, a tall windscreen, a stubby exhaust (not very up-swept) and luggage mounts at front and rear, LED headlights, LED tail lights and LED turn indicators.The new 450cc engine will produce around 30 bhp of power and 40 Nm of torque. This new engine gets a liquid-cooling setup and is likely to feature a 6-speed gearbox. The long wheelbase will enhance straight-line stability and cross-wind protection. High ground clearance should ensure acceptable lean angles as well.Launch of the new Royal Enfield Himalayan 450 is expected later this year, at the EICMA 2023. It could be priced in the Rs 2.5 lakh to Rs 3 lakh range. More details will be revealed as the launch date gets closer. More

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      Simple One Electric Scooter Spied Testing Few Days Before Launch

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      Simple One Electric Scooter SpiedPre-booking for Simple One electric scooter is open for a fully refundable token amount of Rs 1,947Electric two-wheeler segment will soon see a new contender in the form of Simple One electric scooter. Things appear to be a bit delayed, but Simple One should be able to catch up with its best-in-class features. Simple One electric scooter will rival the likes of Ola S1 Pro, Ather 450X, Bajaj Chetak, Hero Vida and TVS iQube ST.Simple One is being described as India’s first premium affordable EV. Even when loaded with hi-tech features, Simple One will be made available at an affordable price point. Pricing and other details will be revealed at the time of launch on May 23, 2023. Deliveries will start subsequently. Simple One production has already commenced at the company’s plant in Tamil Nadu. Ahead of launch, Simple One continues to be on test. Here are latest spy shots.Simple One styling and featuresSimple One has a futuristic design with sharp panelling all across. The headlamp comes in a triangular shaped casing and is mounted on the lower section of the front apron. Lighting elements can also be seen on the handlebar cowl. There’s a compact windscreen and sporty rear-view mirrors.The electric scooter has a flat seat with a comfortable, upright riding stance. The floorboard is decently sized and can come handy for carrying some heavy stuff. The scooter has storage space at front as well as under seat storage of 30 litres.Simple One Electric Scooter SpiedColour options for Simple One electric scooter include Brazen Black, Namma Red, Azure Blue and Grace White. The scooter is equipped with an intuitive smart dashboard, offering navigation, screen customization options, and access to calls and music when paired to the user’s smartphone.Simple One has a dedicated connectivity platform, allowing users to access a range of features. It includes remote commands, geo-fencing, remote locking, save and forward routes, OTA updates and ride statistics. Simple One mobile app will be available for both Android and iOS devices.Simple One range, specsSimple One electric scooter is equipped with a 4.8 kWh battery pack. It is robust, safe and highly efficient and comes with the assurance of long working life. The battery management system is an advanced unit that effectively tracks and controls fluctuations in temperature, current and voltage. Simple One electric scooter is the first to achieve compliance with the Automotive Industry Standards (AIS) 156 amendment 3. This rule enforces stricter battery safety standards for electric two-wheelers.Simple One Electric Scooter SpiedPowering Simple One is an 8.5 kW electric motor that has been designed in line with Indian road conditions. It generates 72 Nm of peak torque. Simple One can achieve 0-40 kmph in 2.77 seconds. It has a top speed of 105 kmph. Simple One offers a best-in-class range of 236 km (ideal driving conditions).Simple One has 12-inch wheels at both ends, shod with 90-90 tubeless tyres. The scooter has patented brakes, especially designed in accordance with local riding conditions. Optimal braking with patented CBS will allow users to unlock the full potential of the scooter.Simple One Electric Scooter SpiedAs the company seems to be focusing on affordability, a price point of under Rs 1 lakh can be considered for the base-spec variant. Quite a few rivals have similar pricing for their base-spec variants. It will be interesting to see how the market responds to India’s longest range electric two-wheeler. More

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      Tata Punch Electric Spied On Towing Truck – Interiors Leak

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      Tata Punch Electric Spied. Images – PhotulogyUpon launch, Punch Electric will rival the likes of Citroen eC3 and recently launched MG Comet EVWith new rivals in entry-level EV segment, Tata Motors is looking to spruce up its EV portfolio. The strategy to launch electric versions of existing popular ICE models has paid rich dividends for the company. After Nexon, Tiago and Tigor, the next to get the EV version is Tata Punch.Tata’s primary volume generators have been Nexon and Punch. While Nexon has crossed the 5-lakh production milestone, Punch recently achieved the 2-lakh production milestone. With Punch’s soaring popularity, it seems the right time to introduce its electric version. Punch will also be getting a CNG option soon.Tata Punch Electric SpiedPunch Electric spotted – Same exterior profilePunch Electric has been spotted on a tow truck. The tight-fitting camouflage reveals that Punch EV has the same exterior profile as the ICE-based Punch. Even the alloy wheels are the same as ICE Punch.Changes at the front are not needed, as Punch Electric is likely to have the charging port at the same spot where the ICE version has the fuel tank lid. This has been the case with Nexon EV and Tiago EV as well. This setup probably helps reduce the number of changes required to convert an ICE-based car into an electric car.Tata Punch Electric SpiedHowever, Punch electric could get some new features. For example, the test mule can be seen with rear disc brakes. In comparison, ICE Punch is offered with front disc and rear drum brakes. Interiors reveal the presence of a rotary dial, indicating that the EV could get an electronic parking brake. This feature is already available with Nexon EV Max. The electronic parking brake functions automatically and it can also be engaged and disengaged manually.Tata Punch Electric SpiedOther features on the inside appear to be the same as ICE Punch. The electric version can be seen with a floating 7-inch touchscreen infotainment system, which is likely to be from Harman and come with Android Auto and Apple CarPlay. Other features similar to ICE Punch include a 7-inch TFT instrument cluster, automatic climate control, flat bottom steering wheel and premium upholstery.Safety features for Punch Electric will be largely the same as its ICE sibling. Some of the key safety equipment offered with Punch includes reverse parking camera, front fog lamps with cornering function, auto headlamps, rain sensing wipers, ABS and EBD with brake sway control and rear defogger.Tata Punch Electric SpiedPunch Electric rangeWhile official details are not available, Punch Electric could have a range of around 300 km. For reference, Tiago EV is available in two variants, one with 250 km range and the other with 315 km range. Recently launched MG Comet EV has range of 230 km whereas Citroen eC3 offers 320 km. Punch Electric is likely to get drive modes of Eco, City and Sport. Battery packs could be similar to those used with Tiago EV.Image Source More