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      China’s Xpeng Starts Testing Flying Car Ahead Of Launch – First Spy Shots

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      Flying car testing startsAt least 3 flying cars are being developed by Xpeng AeroHT, an affiliate of China-based Xpeng MotorsWhile many flying car projects are underway, a mass scale commercial availability could take years. At the forefront of flying car tech are companies like Xpeng Motors, one of the leading electric vehicle manufacturers in China. Flying car products under development include a land aircraft carrier modular flying car and a VTOL (vertical take-off and landing) aircraft named X2. A third product with both car and VTOL functionality is also being developed.Xpeng modular flying car spottedBeing developed by Xpeng AeroHT, the Land Aircraft Carrier modular flying car utilizes a two-part design. There’s a land module in the form of a large van and an VTOL air module that facilitates low-altitude flights. The air module fits snugly inside the land module.Flying car testing startsThe modular flying car will allow users to enjoy the best of both worlds, terrestrial as well as aerial. While the flying car will be great for travel and tourism, it can also be deployed for emergency services and rescue missions. The possibilities are virtually limitless.Xpeng modular flying car capabilitiesAccording to Xpeng AeroHT, the modular flying car is currently under the preparation stage for mass production. The land module can accommodate 4-5 passengers, which makes it suitable for family needs. It has significant off-road potential with 6×6 all-wheel drive and independent rear wheel steering. Where the land module can’t go, the air module takes over. Both standard and long-range land modules will be available. The latter will have capability to charge the air module multiple times.Flying car testing startsThe VTOL air module is fully-electric and designed for low-altitude flight. Both manual and automatic drive modes are available. The flying module has foldable rotors that allow it to easily fit inside the land module. With four legs instead of wheels, the air module feels like a compact traditional helicopter. It can also be described as a large sized drone. The air module has space for two passengers. With its compact design, the flying range will be limited. However, with the charging option inbuilt in the land module, the range limitation can be overcome.Flying car testing startsXpeng modular flying car launch, challengesAt the Consumer Electronics Show in Las Vegas in January 2024, Xpeng had stated that the land Aircraft Carrier modular flying car will be available for pre-order in Q4, 2024. Deliveries are planned to commence from Q4, 2025. However, mass scale adoption can take several years. Pricing could be a factor, as the flying car will not be available at affordable rates.As per an earlier launch plan, Xpeng was considering a price tag of 1 million Yuan (approx. Rs 1.15 crore). At this price point, the flying car will be accessible to a niche audience. Airspace regulations could be another challenge for flying cars. Also, dealing with a flying machine requires specialized skills. Even when equipped with advanced safety features, a flying machine can pose challenges for first time users. More

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      2024 Royal Enfield Scram 450 Spied – Alloys, Telescopic Forks, Wide Rear Tyre

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      2024 Royal Enfield Scram 450 Spied. Credit – RagasUpon launch, Royal Enfield Scram 450 will take on rivals such as Triumph Speed 400, Hero Mavrick 440 and KTM 390 DukeAfter dominating the 350cc and 650cc segments, Royal Enfield is looking to achieve similar results in 450cc space. Beyond Himalayan 450 ADV, enthusiasts can look forward to various other models based on the new 450cc platform. Possibilities include Hunter 450, Scram 450, etc. A roadster version is also likely, as revealed in the latest spy shots. Hat tip to automotive enthusiast Ragas for sharing these exclusive spy shots of RE Scram 450.Royal Enfield Scram 450 – Key featuresIt is likely that the roadster version will be one of the most affordable bikes in Royal Enfield’s 450cc portfolio. This is evident with the changes in the equipment list. As compared to Himalayan 450 that has 43 mm USD forks, the roadster version is equipped with standard telescopic forks at front. However, it is possible that USD forks could be offered as an optional feature.2024 Royal Enfield Scram 450 SpiedTo reduce costs, Royal Enfield Scram 450 will share a number of components from Himalayan 450. It includes an all-LED lighting setup, the monoshock suspension at rear and 320 mm front / 270 mm rear disk brakes. Dual-channel ABS will be offered as standard. However, switchable ABS feature available with Himalayan 450 may not be offered as standard with the roadster version. This will further help reduce cost.One can notice a distinct profile for Scram 450, with features such as round headlamps, curvy fuel tank, offset filler cap, alloy wheels, fork gaiters, a single-piece seat and short tail section. The circular 4-inch TFT display appears to be the same as that of the new Himalayan. It remains to be seen if the full functionality including Bluetooth, phone connectivity, Google-powered turn by turn navigation and media controls are offered with Scram 450.2024 Royal Enfield Scram 450 SpiedRoyal Enfield Scram 450 specs, performanceThe upswept exhaust appears to be the same as that of Himalayan 450. The bike has 17-inch alloys at both ends, shod with road-biased tyres. The rear wheel’s wide tyre should allow a good grip for some high-speed fun. The bike has a comfortable, upright riding stance. Seat height is expected to be less than 800 mm, which will help improve overall control and handling.2024 Royal Enfield Scram 450 SpiedFrom the spy shots, it appears that the engine is being used as a stressed member. Powering the bike will be the same 452cc, liquid cooled, single cylinder, DOHC, 4-valves engine. It churns out 40.02 PS of max power and 40 Nm of peak torque. The engine is mated to a 6-speed gearbox and comes with slip and assist clutch. It is possible that Royal Enfield may introduce some tweaks to the gear ratios in line with the bike’s roadster profile.Royal Enfield Scram 450 priceAssuming that the base variant won’t have features like USD forks and switchable ABS, the bike could be launched at an affordable price point of around Rs 2.30 lakh to Rs 2.40 lakh. Initial offer price could be even lower. In comparison, Triumph Speed 400 is available at a starting price of Rs 2.33 lakh. Hero Mavrick starts at Rs 1.99 lakh, whereas KTM 390 Duke is priced at around Rs 3.10 lakh.2024 Royal Enfield Scram 450 Spied More

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      in Electric Cars

      Mahindra XUV Coupe EV Spied In Ladakh Next To Alto, Dzire – Launch In 2025

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      Mahindra XUV Coupe SpiedExpected to be around 4,790 mm long, Mahindra XUV coupe has a powerful, dynamic road presenceTo ensure its dominance in an electrified era, Mahindra is working on its next-gen XUV.e and BE range of electric SUVs. All these SUVs will be based on the new INGLO platform. Test mules have been spotted frequently and the latest sighting is that of XUV.e9 from Ladakh, where it was spotted by automotive Ravneesh. It can be seen parked in between the Maruti Dzire and Maruti Alto.Mahindra XUV.e9 – Key featuresXUV.e9 is primarily an electric version of the upcoming Mahindra XUV700 Coupe or XUV800. The coupe SUV instantly gets your attention with the sloping roofline. Its curvy, aerodynamic profile exudes confidence and sophistication, something that’s just not possible with the boxy profile of traditional SUVs.Mahindra XUV Coupe Spied Mahindra had recently filed a design patent for XUV.e9, which reveals features such as a closed front panel, sleek C-shaped DRLs, full-width LED light bar, sharp LED headlamps and chiselled bonnet. Side profile has sporty alloy wheels, circular fenders and ORVMs with integrated turn signals. It is likely that the ORVMs will have cameras to support the 360° view. While the front doors have flush-type handles, the rear door handles are mounted on the C-pillar.At rear, the SUV has shark fin antenna, split aero rear spoiler, wraparound tail lamps, prominent bumper and fake air vent-type elements. XUV.e9’s coupe profile is not just about aesthetics. It also makes the vehicle more efficient by reducing drag. Wheels too have aerodynamic properties. These features will help achieve a higher range for XUV.e9.Mahindra XUV Coupe SpiedMahindra XUV.e9 interiorsWith multiple bestselling SUVs, it is apparent that Mahindra has consistently focused on customer delight. The approach will be the same for the upcoming electric SUVs. Mahindra is looking to enhance the user experience with a multitude of segment-first features.Mahindra XUV Coupe SpiedFor example, XUV.e9 will have a triple-screen setup that will cover almost the full width of the dashboard. Along with the touchscreen and instrument cluster, the third screen will be for the front passenger. The cockpit section will be truly transformed with the interconnected 3-screen layout.Mahindra is also expected to debut a new steering wheel with backlit logo for its born-electric SUV range. It is likely to be similar to that of new-gen Tata cars. Upcoming Mahindra electric SUVs can also have a fixed glass roof top. The cabin could get special features to ensure the best visual outcomes with the natural light flowing from the roof.Mahindra XUV Coupe SpiedMahindra XUV.e9 performanceBoth RWD and AWD options will be available with Mahindra XUV.e9. The SUV will have the INGLO platform that has significant optimizations across performance and efficiency. Based on the variant, the battery capacity could be in the range of 60 kWh to 80 kWh. Range is expected to be around 500 km. As for the top speed, Mahindra has already shared a teaser showing XUV.e9 touching 200 km/h in a track environment. More

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      Kawasaki 300cc ADV Spied In Pune – A Screamer To Rival Himalayan

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      Kawasaki 300cc ADV Spied In PuneThe same 296cc DOHC 4V liquid cooled parallel-twin engine from Ninja 300 will do duties on Kawasaki Versys X-300 spotted in IndiaThe iconic Japanese motorcycle brand, Kawasaki seems to be on the verge of expanding its lineup in India. Especially in sub 500cc segment. In that regard, we saw Kawasaki launching Eliminator 400 in India at Rs. 5.62 lakh (ex-sh). Now, the company is considering re-introducing its Ninja 300-based ADV.Where will Versys X-300 operate?India is no stranger to Kawasaki Versys X-300 that used to be on sale in India, albeit at a premium. Because it was based on Ninja 300, many components were shared between the two. The same ideology seems to hold with the new Kawasaki Versys X-300 that has been spotted testing around Pune.Kawasaki Versys X-300Adventure and lifestyle vehicles have been gaining prominence in the recent past. We saw the success story that Royal Enfield and Hero MotoCorp wrote with Himalayan and Xpulse 200 respectively. With champs, there are challengers and we saw Yezdi Adventure, KTM 390 Adventure, BMW G 310 GS, Triumph Scrambler 400X and the new Himalayan 450.Honda launched NX500 too at Rs. 5.9 lakh (ex-sh), which is a multi-cylinder ADV/Tourer-style motorcycle. Kawasaki’s current ADV-style motorcycle for the mainstream audience is Versys 650, which costs Rs. 7.77 lakh. If priced around Rs. 4 lakh (ex-sh), Kawasaki could establish a decent bridge between Himalayan 450 and Honda NX500.Kawasaki 300cc ADV Spied In PuneKawasaki Versys X-300 Spotted TestingTeam Green currently sells Versys X-300 in overseas markets. Test mule spotted around Pune, India, looks very similar to the global model. For starters, Kawasaki Versys X-300 will be a Sports Touring/Adventure motorcycle. We say this because the test engineer is donning fancy riding gear with knee sliders and everything. So, there seems to be a sporty edge.Kawasaki Versys X 300There is a single-pod headlight housed in this handsome fairing. A tall transparent windscreen looks like it protects the rider from wind blasts. Speaking of rider, this test engineer is sitting quite relaxed with an upright seating position and centre-set footpegs. Rider triangle looks to be quite comfy for the long hauls.Conventional RSU telescopic forks take care of front suspension duties and we can see a mono-shock at the rear. Global model comes with a 19-inch front and 17-inch rear wire-spoke wheel setup. The same was spotted in India too. We wish tyres were fatter, as 100-section front and 130-section rear look too skinny to be on a Rs. 4 lakh motorcycle.125cc and 160cc bikes are getting USD telescopic front forks and LED lighting all around and Kawasaki is less likely to implement both. What it will implement with Kawasaki Versys X-300, though, is Ninja 300’s 296cc DOHC liquid-cooled parallel-twin engine that delivers around 39 bhp and 26 Nm, mated to a slipper clutch and 6-speed gearbox. Launch could happen by the end of 2024.Source More

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      World’s First Electric Cargo Scooter Spied Testing – 150 Kms Range

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      World’s First Electric Cargo Scooter SpiedQargos electric cargo scooter will improve operational efficiency and do away with the massive backpacks carried by delivery executivesWhile two-wheelers are already extensively used in B2B and B2C segments, they have limited load capacity. Moreover, existing two-wheelers used for deliveries aren’t protected from the elements. To overcome such challenges and solve other last-mile delivery issues, Qargos has come up with the world’s first electric cargo 2-wheeler.Qargos electric cargo 2-wheeler scooter specsDevelopment of Qargos electric cargo scooter is in its final stages. Qargos is a Pune-based start-up and has been working on the cargo 2-wheeler for the last 6 years. The EV is equipped with a 6.1 kWh lithium-ion battery pack, designed by French multinational software corporation Dassault Systèmes. The battery connects to a 3.4 kW motor that generates 6 kW of peak power.Qargos electric cargo scooterQargos electric cargo scooter has a range of 150 km. Top speed is limited to 80 km/h. The EV weighs 145 kg and comes with a 225-litre cargo compartment. It can carry around 120 kg of cargo. With a standard AC power socket, the charging time is currently around 5 hours 15 minutes. There are plans to develop DC charging capabilities that will reduce charging time to around 3 hours.Qargos EV testing is currently underway and modifications are being carried out, as needed. One of the key areas the company is focusing on is to improve the aerodynamics of the EV. This is being done in collaboration with Dassault Systèmes. With reduced drag force, Qargos EV will be able to achieve a higher range.Qargos electric cargo scooterQargos cargo 2-wheeler benefitsWith a conventional two-wheeler, an average of around 35 deliveries can be done. In comparison, the Qargos cargo 2-wheeler will allow deliveries of around 70 parcels. It will be possible with the larger 120 kg cargo space. Grocery carrying capacity can be increased 3X, as compared to around 36 kg currently possible with a standard 2-wheeler.Qargos electric cargo scooterDelivery executives won’t be required to carry the heavy backpacks, something that will improve their overall efficiency. Finding the parcels will become a lot easier with the dedicated cargo compartment, as compared to finding parcels inside a bag. The cargo compartment is lockable, so no worries about parcels getting stolen. The cargo compartment will also keep the parcels protected from the elements.Qargos cargo 2-wheeler launch, priceQargos has stated that the testing and validation process will be completed soon. Homologation is expected by March or April. Bookings could be announced in the subsequent months. Qargos electric cargo 2-wheeler is expected to be launched at a starting price of Rs 2 lakh. Around 250 units will be produced by the end of this year. As demand picks-up, production will be increased to around 12,000 units in 2025. Qargos cargo 2-wheeler will be manufactured at the company’s facility in Pune.Qargos electric cargo scooterTill date, funds worth USD 1 million have been invested in the project. The company will need more funds for production and marketing purposes. The prototypes have been developed in collaboration with leading Tier 1 suppliers. Ather has helped with developing the charging systems. Qargos is also developing a 2-seater version that will have a smaller cargo compartment.Source More

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      in Electric Cars

      Hyundai Creta EV To Be Based On 2024 Facelift – New Alloys Spied

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      Hyundai Creta EVWhile Ioniq 5 and Kona Electric are already available, upcoming Creta EV and Exter EV will be Hyundai’s first mass market EVs for IndiaEarlier this month, Hyundai had launched the new 2024 Creta facelift at a starting price of Rs 10.99 lakh. Hyundai is also working on the electric version of Creta, which is expected to be launched later this year. New spy shots reveal that Creta EV will be based on the 2024 facelift model.Creta EV – design and featuresRecently spotted Creta EV test mule closely matches the 2024 Creta facelift model in most parts. It gets the quad-beam LED headlamps, horizon LED positioning lamps and DRLs, LED sequential turn signals at front and rear and connecting LED tail lamps.Hyundai Creta EVOf course, Creta EV will have EV-specific changes such as the closed-off grille. Front and rear bumper could be refreshed slightly, in line with the SUV’s electric underpinnings. Some EV-specific branding elements are likely across the front, side and rear.One can also notice that Creta EV has a new set of alloy wheels. They have grooved surfaces, something similar to that of alloy wheels with aero inserts used with the new Nexon EV facelift. The alloys not only complement Creta’s sporty profile, but are also likely to have aerodynamic properties. In terms of size, the alloys for Creta EV could be 17-inch or 18-inch units.Hyundai Creta EVCreta EV interiorsOn the inside, Hyundai Creta EV will have most of the features available with the new Creta facelift. Some of the key highlights include seamlessly integrated infotainment and instrument cluster screen, front row ventilated seats, voice enabled smart panoramic sunroof, 8-way power adjustable driver seat, dual-zone automatic temperature control and Bose premium sound system with 8 speakers. Some premium features could be borrowed from Ioniq 5 as well.Hyundai Creta EVAn extensive range of Level-2 ADAS features are available. Safety kit also includes 6-airbags, electronic stability control, vehicle stability management, hill start assist control, burglar alarm, rear and front parking sensors, rear camera with dynamic guidelines and tyre pressure monitoring system.Borrowing heavily from the ICE sibling will help reduce development and production cost. Creta EV will be facing tough competition from upcoming Curvv EV and Maruti eVX. A competitive price point is necessary for Creta EV to emerge as the preferred option in the compact electric SUV segment.Creta EV performance, rangeCreta EV will be equipped with a 45-kWh battery pack. Hyundai will be sourcing the battery packs from LG Chem. Some of the rivals have larger battery packs such as a 50.3 kWh unit in use with MG ZS EV. Upcoming Maruti eVX is expected to have a 48 to 60 kWh battery pack. Nexon EV long range variant has a smaller 40.5 kWh battery pack. While the certified range of Creta EV could be around 450 km, real-world range could be approximately 250-300 km.Hyundai Creta EV will be borrowing the electric motor from the new-gen Kona EV sold in international markets. To be mounted on the front axle, the motor will generate 138 hp of max power and 255 Nm of peak torque. More details such as the top speed, acceleration, charging time, etc. are yet to be revealed. More

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      Mahindra XUV.e9 EV Coupe Reveals Flamboyant Design

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      Mahindra XUV.e9 EV CoupeWhen compared to XUV.e8 with a regular monocoque SUV proportions, Mahindra XUV.e9 EV Coupe emerges as significantly more stylishCoupe SUVs have been catching up in recent times. What started as a design trend with BMW X6 has reached mainstream car markets. Mahindra is also taking up the trend and developing XUV.e9 and BE.09. There have been spy shots showing profile, but the new spy shots show rear section as well.Mahindra XUV.e9 EV CoupeFor starters, the new XUV.e9 is essentially an electrified version of upcoming XUV700 Coupe or XUV800. While XUV.e8 is an electrified version of XUV700, XUV.e9 is an electrified version of XUV800, which could be launched at a later date. To ace aerodynamic performance of a coupe SUV, Mahindra seems to be benchmarking a Tesla Model Y, spotted at Mahindra’s premises.The recent XUV.e9 spy shots were captured by automotive enthusiast Anto Leo Thomson. This particular test mule was found trundling along near Paranur toll gate outside Mahindra City, Chengalpattu, Tamil Nadu. These are the clearest and the closest pictures of XUV.e9 yet. Most of the components like tail lights and headlights seem to be production-spec.In many Mahindra prototypes, we have seen temporary tail lights, but these seem to be finalised. We can see how massive Mahindra XUV.e9 looks and the massive road presence it exudes. Wheels look a tad small for a vehicle of this size. However, the coupe roof line is the primary highlight here.Mahindra XUV.e9 EV Coupe shapeIt smoothly flows into rear section that features a connected tail light design along with a fake air vent-type element. We can see split aero rear spoiler along with a shark fin antenna. Front door handles are flush, but rear door handle is in the C-pillar. Chunky body claddings will cut down on visual mass too.Immersive interiorsAnto Leo Thomson also mentioned that this particular test mule features a triple-screen setup – one for main infotainment, one for driver’s instrumentation and one for front passenger. We will see Mahindra’s new steering wheel which looks to be inspired by Tata’s new steering design. Like BE.05, XUV.e9 could feature a fixed glass roof too.Powertrain-wise, Mahindra’s new INGLO platform will underpin this stylish coupe SUV. Battery size will vary between 60 kWh to 80 kWh. Single motor RWD and dual motor AWD layouts will be offered as options. Performance with these SUVs will be plenty with instant electric torque. Mahindra demonstrated a 200 km/h top speed as well.Mahindra BE.09 Production DesignIn India, Tata Tigor was the first mainstream coupe vehicle, followed by Maruti Suzuki Fronx. That said, Mahindra had established interests in coupe vehicles much earlier and had even showcased XUV500 Aero Concept with a sloping roof line. The new BE.09 and XUV.e9 are spiritual successors of that design. More

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      in Electric Cars

      Maruti Suzuki eVX Spotted With ADAS Module – Launch Nearing?

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      Maruti Suzuki eVX spotted with ADAS moduleProduction-spec Maruti Suzuki eVX spotted testing, will rival ZS EV, upcoming Creta EV, Curvv EV, Elevate EV, Mahindra BE.05 and othersIndia’s leading carmaker, Maruti Suzuki, currently lacks an electric offering. This auto giant has a strategic partnership with Toyota and together, both the manufacturers are expected to launch their first electric vehicle for Indian markets. Maruti Suzuki eVX has been spotted testing multiple times and will launch before Toyota counterpart, based on Urban Crossover Concept.Maruti Suzuki eVX Spotted Testing AgainGlobal Suzuki has unveiled exteriors and interiors of eVX e-SUV in concept form. However, eVX has been spotted testing multiple times both overseas and here in India. Looking at the testing prototypes, we would wager that this product will probably take a lot more time than what was earlier predicted.But the testing is running in full swing, as observed with increasing frequency of test mule sightings. We can predict a launch timeline around the end of 2024. That said, the recent spy shots are some of the clearest, lending a perspective as to what we can expect from upcoming Maruti Suzuki eVX e-SUV.Considering that Suzuki has already revealed exteriors in concept form, we can compare how close the final production-spec model is going to be. Especially when compared to what was showcased as a concept.Maruti Suzuki eVX ConceptHow true is production model to conceptMaruti Suzuki eVX production model looks like it is toned down a lot from the concept version. We say this because the concept looked a lot more chiselled, edgy and flexed character lines that were quite complex to achieve in mass manufacturing. However, production model does retain design ethos where core silhouette is concerned.Front fascia ditches the sleek LED headlights in favour of a more conventional one. Concept has a closed-off grill, but production model features a grill that is a lot more open. Almost like a normal IC engine-equipped vehicle. Upper grill has a radar module too for ADAS suite. This could be the first Maruti vehicle to get ADAS. Maybe Grand Vitara may offer ADAS before eVX launch.Wheels are nothing fancy like the aero ones seen on concept model. A rear-view camera and flush door handles on concept make way for conventional ones with production-spec models. Rear door handle is on C pillar, which is interesting. Side profile almost carries design ethos from concept including an almost three-box design.Maruti Suzuki eVX dummy tail lightsTail lights of this particular test mule were dummy units for a temporary purpose. When launched, Maruti Suzuki eVX will feature connected tail lights that almost every car is offering these days. Other notable attributes include a shark-fin antenna, a subtle rear spoiler and a non-flashy bumper.Where powertrains are concerned, Maruti Suzuki eVX e-SUV will be based on born-electric YY8 skateboard, which is derived from Toyota’s 27PL platform. Battery options might include 45 kWh and 60 kWh units with single motor FWD and dual motor AWD layout options. Range can be around 550 km on a single charge.Maruti Suzuki eVX alloy wheel designSource More