More stories

  • in

    Royal Enfield Shotgun 650cc Spied Testing Ahead Of Launch

    The same 648cc parallel-twin engine will be mated to Royal Enfield Shotgun 650, developing 47 bhp of power and 52 Nm of torque2023 Royal Enfield Shotgun 650cc
    In keeping with its four motorcycles per year strategy, Royal Enfield has a lot on its hands right now. Starting from the lower end, the Chennai-based bikemaker is testing a new Bullet 350, Himalayan 450, Scrambler 450, Himalayan 650, Scram 650, Royal Enfield Shotgun 650, etc
    After launching Super Meteor 650, updated Interceptor 650 and 650 GT earlier this year, Royal Enfield seems to be strengthening its 650cc portfolio with another offering. That is Shotgun 650. There have been multiple test mules of that in 2022, but got less frequent after that. Recently, a near-production version of Shotgun 650 was spotted testing on road. Is this a hint for an imminent launch? Let’s take a look.
    Royal Enfield Shotgun 650 – Spied On Video
    Shotgun 650 was first showcased as a stunning concept at EICMA 2021 and ever since, has been a highly anticipated bike from the marque. It has been attracting a lot of eyeballs from general consensus and celebrities alike, including Fast & Furious fame Sung Kang. It is so, because of how attractive the concept looked.
    The near-production test mule spotted recently, retains much of the concept’s look. Which is a good thing. This RE motorcycle looks muscular all along. One can say that it resembles very closely to the recently launched Super Meteor as well. Sure, Royal Enfield will keep componentry like front USD forks, rear twin shocks, headlights, instrument cluster and most things. Video is credited to Kshitij.
    Royal Enfield plans to launch multiple new 650cc motorcycles
    Owing to different characters, there will be differences as well. Even though headlights are similar, Shotgun 650 gets a different headlight housing, made of machined aluminium like on Scram 411. Fuel tank is different, and so is the rear section. Tail light housings might be similar, but on Shotgun 650 test mules, turn indicators are closer to tail light than in Super Meteor.
    [embedded content]
    Riding position looks more relaxed, lending Shotgun 650 a different rider triangle. Test mule features alloy wheels, Royal Enfield Shotgun 650 won’t be getting 19” front and 16” rear as we saw with Super Meteor. When launched, Royal Enfield is likely to offer a single-seat option as well.
    Specs & Features – 650 cc Shotgun
    The same 648cc air/oil cooled parallel-twin engine making 47 bhp of power and 52 Nm of torque will be kept as is. There might be a slightly different tune on Royal Enfield’s upcoming 650cc Shotgun, suiting its character. Transmission duties are handled by a 6-speed gearbox and a slipper clutch.
    Features might include a USB socket to charge mobile phones. Speaking of mobile phones, we expect Shotgun 650 to come with Bluetooth connectivity and GPS, enabling turn-by-turn navigation as standard fitment. When launched, Royal Enfield Shotgun 650 will lock horns with other neo-retro-styled bikes like Kawasaki Z650RS, Benelli Leoncino 500 and the likes. Royal Enfield 650cc Shotgun price could be around Rs. 4 lakh (ex-sh). More

  • in

    2023 Hero Xtreme 200S 4V Spied In Yellow Colour – Launch Soon

    Upon its launch, Hero Xtreme 200S 4V will be positioned against Bajaj Pulsar RS2002023 Hero Xtreme 200S 4V. Image – Automobile Tamilan
    Hero MotoCorp is currently working on developing a range of new and updated products. Over the last few days, multiple spy shots of new Hero motorcycles have been leaked online. Hero is working on launching new motorcycles in the commuter segment of 100cc as well as premium segment of above 150cc.
    In the 100cc segment, they are getting ready to launch new Passion Plus. In the above 150cc segment, they will launch updated Xtreme 160R with USD forks, Karizma 210, Xtreme 200S 4V, Xpulse 420cc, Xtreme 420cc, etc. Of these, it is the Xtreme 200S 4V that has now been spied undisguised at a dealer, ahead of launch.
    2023 Hero Xtreme 200S 4V Launch Soon
    Hat tip to Automobile Tamilan for the exclusive images. There is no change in design, except for a new colour. Currently, the Xtreme 200S 2V is offered in a choice of three colours – Pearl White, Panther Black and Sports Red. The new 2023 Hero Xtreme 200S 4V seen in spy shots here, is finished in a dual tone of Yellow with Black accents.
    Xtreme 200S is currently Hero’s only faired motorcycle. Karizma XMR 210 is under testing and is likely to be launched by the end of 2023. Hero Xtreme 200S doesn’t sell as much as Hero would have liked. To boost sales and desirability factor, Hero is soon going to offer it a 4V head. A 4V head will ensure a more lively performance. Something Xtreme 200S needs. Hero’s 4V head first debuted with Xpulse 200. Then it was made available with Xpulse 200T.
    2023 Hero Xtreme 200S 4V
    The current 200S is powered by a 199.6cc single-cylinder, a two-valve, oil-cooled motor that pushes out 17.8 bhp and 16.45 Nm of peak torque. The upcoming motorcycle will feature the same engine but with a 4-valve setup which will not only improve performance figures but also provide better fuel efficiency. This unit will continue to be paired with the same 5-speed gearbox. It is likely to deliver 18.8 bhp and 17.35 Nm in its new avatar.
    Hardware configurations of the bike will also be carried forward from the current bike. Suspension duties will also be handled by telescopic forks up front and a mono-shock at rear. Braking setup gets updated with new petal disc in the front as well as rear. Likely to be same brakes that we see in new Xpulse 200 4V.
    To Be Feature Loaded – Modern Tech, Bluetooth
    In terms of features, Xtreme 200S gets a fully digital instrument console that is enabled with Bluetooth connectivity. It also reads out a wide range of data from the gear position indicator, service reminders and more. Like the other new launches, Xtreme 200S 4V will also be offered with Hero Connect telematics which offers a long list of connected features.
    This system comes embedded with an e-SIM which can communicate with the cellular network to establish a link between the device and application. Some notable features offered under this system include Geo-fencing, real-time mileage alert, last parking location, in-built navigation to name a few. The location-based features will be powered by Google Maps.
    Hero Connect can also analyse riding behaviour and inform the user in case there are issues with their riding style. Users can set a speed limit and receive notification in case the limit is exceeded. Another key vehicle safety feature is a tow-away alert. Prices of 2023 Hero Xtreme 200S 4V are likely to be in the range of Rs 1.4 lakh to Rs 1.45 lakh, ex-sh. More

  • in

    Bajaj Triumph Scrambler Spied Ahead Of Launch – New Details

    With its compact, sharp profile, upcoming Bajaj-Triumph Scrambler can emerge as a capable challenger to Hunter 350Bajaj Triumph Scrambler Spied – Royal Enfield RivalBajaj has taken over Triumph India operations as part of the partnership deal signed. Later this year, we will get to see their first motorcycle, which is likely to be a Scrambler. While earlier test mules were spotted overseas, the new Bajaj-Triumph bike has now started its test runs in India.Launch is expected in last quarter of CY2023, as revealed by KTM CEO, Stefan Pierer. In an interview, Stefan had stated that Bajaj-Triumph partnership is not a threat to KTM. He had said that competition makes them better.Bajaj-Triumph Scrambler 400 bike – New detailsUpcoming Bajaj-Triumph bike is anyways not a rival to any of the KTM bikes. It will primarily challenge Royal Enfield 350cc bikes such as Hunter 350. From Bajaj’s perspective, this will be the company’s second attempt to take on Royal Enfield. The earlier attempt with Dominar didn’t quite create the kind of buzz Bajaj was aiming for.As the test mule has proper fit and finish and there doesn’t seem to be any temporary add-ons, it indicates that the bike could be nearing production stage. Upcoming Bajaj-Triumph bike has round LED headlamp, sleek turn indicators, classic fuel tank design, USD front forks, monoshock rear suspension, alloy wheels and blacked-out engine bay. Take a look at the detailed video shared by The Fat Biker channel.[embedded content][embedded content]Riding stance is fairly comfortable with centrally mounted foot pegs and slightly elevated handlebar. The bike has disc brakes at both ends and dual-channel ABS is expected to be offered as standard. In comparison to an earlier sighting when the test mule was seen with single-exhaust tips, this recent version has a dual exhaust tip. It seems to compliment the bike’s overall design and could be functionally relevant as well. It is possible that aural experience could also have been improved with the dual exhaust exit.Bajaj Triumph Scrambler Spied – Royal Enfield RivalOther key details include saree guard and pillion grab rail. The bike gets a twin-piece seat, which appears to be quite comfortable for the rider. However, the pillion seat section is a bit narrow. It could be okay for short rides, but doesn’t seem like a good idea for longer journeys. The test mule has Triumph accessories like soft top-box, saddle bag, tank bag, luggage mounts as well as protection parts.Bajaj-Triumph bike engine, specsIt is expected that upcoming Bajaj-Triumph range will have 250cc and 350-400cc versions. While official specs have not been revealed, the 250cc version could be generating around 30 bhp of max power. The larger 350cc bike will churn out around 40 bhp. The bikes will have features such as slipper clutch, liquid cooling, ride-by-wire tech and quick shifter. Connectivity features could also be on offer. In the spy video, we can notice an analogue speedometer, MID with gear position indicator, fuel gauge and tachometer.Bajaj Triumph Scrambler Spied – Royal Enfield RivalLaunch price of upcoming Bajaj-Triumph bike is likely to be around Rs 2 lakh to Rs 3 lakh. It is likely that multiple body styles such as roadster, scrambler, cafe racer and flat tracker will be available. Just like made-in-India KTMs, upcoming Bajaj-Triumph bikes will also be targeted at export markets. Harley Davidson has embarked on a similar mission with its entry-level motorcycle in partnership with Hero MotoCorp. More

  • in

    Small Hyundai Electric Cars: Casper EV, followed by Exter EV?

    From Casper EV Launching in 2024 to Exter EV: The Next Big Thing in Electric Cars from HyundaiHyundai Casper EV Spied – Likely to spawn into Exter Electric in India
    Hyundai has been a frontrunner in electric vehicle technology. The latest Hyundai Casper EV spyshots throw light on realistic possibilities. Hyundai Exter small car is set to launch in India later in 2023. It’s highly likely that it will also have an EV variant shortly after.
    Shifting gears to the Casper EV, it’s exciting to see that Hyundai Casper is likely to use a 40 kWh battery and a driving range of over 300 km. This is a significant improvement compared to previous compact EV models (Ray EV and Spark EV) that struggled with limited driving range, and high prices. With the petrol-powered Casper model priced below 20 million won (Rs 12.5 lakh), Casper EV is expected to be priced between the high 20 million won to mid-30 million won (Rs 18.8 lakh) range, making it a more affordable option.
    Hyundai Casper EV Spied: The Ideal Choice for Korean Consumers Seeking Sustainability
    The compact/micro EV would offer a value proposition as a highly attractive option for consumers looking for an affordable electric car. Furthermore, as per Korean subsidy parameters, it’s likely that Casper EV will be eligible for subsidies, making it an even more attractive option for potential buyers.
    Although Casper EV spyshots are veiled in camouflage, there’s enough to glean info from. Daytime running lights and light design elements are familiar to its ICE counterpart. The side camo pocket indicates that it is a space for electric charging. Similar to the Kona EV, it’s likely that the Casper EV will have a charging port on one side.
    Hyundai Casper EV charging port in the front
    Are You Ready for the Future with Electric Cars? Hyundai Exter EV Might Just Be It
    It’s unlikely that the Casper EV will be twinning in design with the current model, so it’s exciting to speculate what the grille will look like. The wheels on the car were 17 inches, which suggests that they have not yet developed EV-specific wheels. Tail lights also appeared to be the same as the current Casper model. There were no visible exhaust pipes on the bottom, as expected for an EV model.
    [embedded content]
    Why are we excited about the Casper EV? Because of Hyundai Exter, which in probability, is based on K1 platform. It’s the same as seen on Hyundai Casper sold abroad, and Nios i10 here. Hyundai Casper and Exter are small cars.
    And small cars are more likely to switch to an electric powertrain sooner due to their lower power requirements and more efficient operation. Additionally, as the automotive industry continues to shift towards electric mobility, it would make sense for Hyundai to offer an EV variant of the Exter. This would bolster competition in a new segment in India.
    Hyundai Casper EV spied
    The list of Best Electric Cars for Indian Urban Commuters is fast Expanding
    It would be a smart move for Hyundai, as the Indian market has been showing increasing interest in electric vehicles. And as the government has set its own goals for electric car adoption by 2030, the EV push has begun.
    If the Exter EV is anything like the Casper EV, we can expect it to have a similar driving range and competitive price point. A price competitive EV for Indian consumers looking for an affordable electric car. With its compact size and efficient operation, Exter EV could also be a popular choice for urban commuters looking for a practical daily mode of transportation. Much like the MG Comet EV ready to make its India debut this week. More

  • in

    Hero Xtreme 160R Spied With USD Front Forks – Pulsar NS160 Rival

    Hero Xtreme 160R is currently priced in the range of Rs 1.18 lakh to Rs 1.3 lakh, ex-shHero Xtreme 160R USD Front Forks SpiedMajority of Hero’s sales are driven by budget commuters like Splendor, Super Splendor, Passion, Glamour and the likes. In premium 160cc commuter space, Hero has Xtreme 160R, which doesn’t sell as much as the company would have liked. Hero can change this around and turn the tides toward its favour by making key changes to this machine.New Hero Xtreme 160R USD Forks Launch SoonWe’re talking about decisive factors like the USD front forks which were recently introduced in rival Bajaj Pulsar NS160. Latest test mule of Xtreme 160R has been spotted with USD front forks, indicating that it might launch soon.Apart from USD forks, there are going to be new colours as well as certain design changes to establish an iterative change with 160R. These changes were hidden under the camouflage. That said, we could spot the presence of a muscular grab rail.What Will Be Continued From Outgoing Model?There are a lot of good bits about Hero Xtreme 160R that will be carried over to this upcoming update. For starters, Hero Xtreme 160R is a well-equipped motorcycle with LED headlights, LED turn indicators, hazard light function, LED tail lights with smoked effect housing, fully digital instrument cluster with negative LCD and gear position indicator, muscular design and more.Hero Xtreme 160R USD Front Forks SpiedOne of the highlights of Hero Xtreme 160R has been its lower kerb weight. At just 138 kg (for rear drum variant), it is one of the lightest motorcycles in the segment, second to only TVS Apache RTR 160 2V. With impeccable ride and dynamics already established, Hero seems to have a solid baseline on which this update might build on.Hero Xtreme 160R USD Front Forks SpiedAlso, the 163 cc single-cylinder engine making 15 bhp of power and 14 Nm of torque, mated to a 5-speed gearbox is likely to be carried over. Single-channel ABS with rear optional disc brake will also be carried over, instead of a dual-channel option.What Do We Expect From This Update?With the launch of Bajaj Pulsar NS160 with USD front forks, Hero doesn’t want to be left behind in offering its customers a good riding package. In comes Hero Xtreme 160R with USD front forks which will offer enhanced corner-carving capabilities. Expect prices of Hero Xtreme 160R USD variant to be higher by about Rs 5k-10k, than the current version.Hero Xtreme 160R USD Front Forks SpiedWe hope Hero offers the same instrument cluster as Xpulse 200, 200T and Xtreme 200S on Xtreme 160R. This enables Bluetooth connectivity and turn-by-turn navigation as well. There is a tiny possibility of Xtreme 160R getting promoted to 200cc class with upcoming Karizma’s 210cc engine, now that Hunk is being tested with the same 160cc engine. More

  • in

    Kia Carens Electric Spied Testing For The First Time

    As part of its electrification roadmap, Kia will be introducing born-electric BEVs as well as launch electric versions of its ICE modelsKia Carens Electric Spied. Image – NewcarscoopsKia recently showcased EV5 Concept that appeared quite similar to Carens in terms of its design and size. Now, a new Kia test mule has been spotted in South Korea, which appears to be Carens electric. It is a close match to ICE-based Carens sold in India.Kia Carens electric spied for the first timeAs ICE Carens is already manufactured in India, the electric version could also be manufactured here. Carens has emerged as a popular MUV and there’s certainly scope for its electric version. Apart from India, Carens Electric could also be introduced in select Southeast Asian markets.Kia Carens Electric SpiedSide profile of the test mule is largely the same as existing Kia Carens sold in India. The positioning of the pillars, belt line, wheel arches and the slightly sloping roofline are some of the key similarities. Alloy wheels are specially designed for drag reduction. Core silhouette of front and rear section also appears to be same as ICE Carens. These sections are heavily camouflaged, so finer details are hard to guess.Carens electric will be getting the usual set of updates to the front fascia, as is the case with conversions of ICE cars to electric. Changes to the front grille, air dam and lighting setup are likely. A similar treatment could be utilized for the rear section as well. Carens electric could also get some new colour options. ICE Carens is available in 8 monotone colour options.Kia Carens Electric SpiedInside, Carens electric could be using a new colour theme and refreshed upholstery. Interiors could be spruced up to match the MUV’s electrified underpinnings. A significant percentage of features will be carried forward from ICE Carens.It could include ventilated seats, premium BOSE sound system, wireless charging, ambient lighting, leather wrapped steering wheel and gear knob, leatherette wrapped door trims and Kia Connect connected car tech. Carens electric could get an integrated infotainment and instrument cluster, something similar to that of EV5.Kia Carens electric – battery and range specsKia Carens electric could have a range in the ballpark of 400-500 km. Details about battery pack and electric motor are not available, but overall performance is expected to be similar to ICE Carens. Just for comparison, Kia’s upcoming electric flagship EV9 has range of 541 km with the RWD Long Range variant. It has a 99.8 kWh battery pack and generates 201 hp of max power and 350 Nm of peak torque. EV9 AWD variant delivers 380 hp and 600 Nm. Kia Carens electric prices could be in the range of Rs 25 lakh to Rs 30 lakh.Before Carens electric arrives here, Kia might be launching Carens facelift later this year. It is expected to get updates such as refreshed front fascia and ADAS. Inside, Carens facelift could be equipped with a new touchscreen infotainment system and instrument console. Panoramic sunroof option can be introduced with top-spec variants. Powertrain options will be same as earlier for Carens facelift.Source More

  • in

    Baojun Yep Jimny Rival Electric SUV Spied – Heading To Dealer

    Baojun cars are on sale in India under the MG branding – Will we get the new Yep small car next?Jimny Rival Electric SUVSuzuki Jimny is one of the hottest vehicles in multiple global markets. SAIC-GM-Wuling JV are developing a rival that will solely get an electric powertrain. Baojun Yep EV is its global name. 59,800 Yuan (rumoured) is the leaked starting price, which is about Rs 7.12 lakh, making it a rather tempting proposition.Baojun Yep SUV is expected to make its global debut at the 2023 Shanghai Auto Show, to be held between April 18 and 27, 2023. Ahead of that, new spy shots have leaked online, which reveal the production version in an undisguised state for the first time. It is seen getting transported to dealer showrooms ahead of launch.Jimny Rival Electric SUVWhat To Expect From MG’s Jimny Rival, Yep?Baojun Yep is a small SUV with 3-door, 4-seat layout. Apart from executing duties in your day to day city life, it is also meant to perform during weekend camping excursions among other lifestyle activities.Yep measures 3381 mm in length, 1685 mm in width and 1721 mm in height. Wheelbase measures 2110 mm and kerb weight is surprisingly low at 1006 kg. Considering that it is an EV with a heavy electric powertrain, low kerb weight should ensure peppy performance. A new teaser video shows the mini electric SUV drifting in the snow.[embedded content][embedded content]Speaking of electric powertrains, Baojun Yep is powered by a LiFePO4 (Lithium Iron Phosphate, LFP) battery. The sole drivetrain is a 50 kW (68 bhp) and 140 Nm single motor with RWD architecture. Baojun Yep claims a range of 303 km under CLTC test conditions. There are reports suggesting a dual motor layout with AWD and even 5-door versions in the future. This will deliver more power and performance.Jimny Rival Electric SUVInspirations Drawn From Jimny SUVOne look at Yep is enough to see that it is shooting for Jimny’s design. Even colours are somewhat similar. We can spot design elements inspired by Mercedes-Benz G Wagon and Land Rover Defender. Front fascia gets projector headlights, quad-pod LED DRLs, a gloss black grille and a radar module for ADAS functions.At the sides, stylish alloy wheels denoting either an ‘x’ or ‘+’, flared wheel arches and boxy silhouette catch attention. Roof rails and squared-off rear section lend a rugged aura around it. Previous spy shots revealed twin horizontal displays. These take center stage on the inside.Jimny Rival Electric SUVWill It Launch In India?MG cars on sale in India, were first launched in China. These were then re-engineered for launch in India. Hector, Astor, Gloster, ZS EV as well as the soon to be launched Comet EV, are on sale in the Chinese market.But that does not mean all cars sold by MG’s parent in China are on sale in India. Only those cars which make sense to the Indian market, will be launched. Considering that India has been reporting exponential growth in electric car space and popularity of lifestyle products like Jimny and Thar is exploding – Yep makes an exciting proposition for India. As of now, there is no official confirmation regarding a launch in India. More

  • in

    MG Cyberster Electric Spied With 3 Screen Layout – Scissor Doors

    After almost 13 years of absence, MG is getting ready to enter the two-seat sports car segment once againMG Cyberster Electric Spied. Images – Tycho de FeijterMG Motor will be launching an all-new sports car based on Cyberster concept, which was first unveiled in 2021. Global debut is expected to take place later this month, at the 2023 Shanghai Auto Show. Ahead of that, some new undisguised spy shots of the MG Cyberster interiors have leaked online.Upcoming MG Cyberster Gets Mesmerising DesignDespite most of the design elements of the concept car being watered down, MG Cyberster is still a looker. Spy shots reveal a handsome two-seat electric sports car with a convertible fabric top. The automated soft top roof gracefully tucks away behind its roll hoops.MG Cyberster Electric SpiedWe can also see the presence of scissor doors – commonly referred to as Lamborghini doors. Overall design is swoopy and curvaceous in typical British fashion. In the front, we have a sleek fascia with some similarities to the Ferrari 812 Superfast. Rear profile, as executed, reminds me of Ford GT-40.The 3D LED tail lights shaped to resemble arrows might split some opinions. But they add a touch of sophistication and create a unique identity. At the rear, a large diffuser takes center stage. Large alloy wheels, wide rear haunches and sharp side skirts are further eye-catching elements.MG Cyberster Electric SpiedFuturistic Interiors For a Futuristic EVInside, a driver gets a steering yoke, and three displays pointed toward them. This steering yoke might come off as inconvenient, but it allows an unobstructed view of the three displays.MG Cyberster Electric SpiedThe V-shaped center console houses various vehicle controls. Boot space at the rear could be slightly compromised due to the convertible roof mechanism. Since it is an electric vehicle, there could also be a front luggage compartment.Powertrain & Potential Rivals When LaunchedNot much is known about this. So, it is anyone’s guess at the moment. Base version of MG Cyberster could be equipped with a single-motor layout, to offer a lower entry-level price point. A dual motor layout with AWD is expected with the top trims.MG Cyberster Electric SpiedThe concept version claimed to deliver 800 kms on full charge. That might not be the case with the production version. Upon launch, MG Cyperster will compete with electric two-seaters from Toyota, Lotus, Porsche and more. Will it launch in India? Only time will tell. More