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    Aprilia 440cc Faired Motorcycle Spied – Eyes on the Prize

    New Aprilia 440cc faired MotorcycleGame On: Aprilia’s New 440cc Faired Motorcycle Takes Aim at Yamaha R3 and Ninja 300 and 400The sub 500cc multi-cylinder motorcycle space is likely to get heated up with the launch of Yamaha R3 and MT-03. As of now, Kawasaki Ninja 300 and Ninja 400 are the only ones in this space as of now. Royal Enfield’s 650cc portfolio falls somewhat falls into this space owing to its extremely competitive pricing.Benelli 302R used to be the only Italian in this space. But now, Italian motorcycle manufacturer Aprilia is set to enter this space soon. The company is testing a new motorcycle. Rumour mill suggests that it will have a 440cc parallel-twin engine that should take on Kawasaki Ninja 400 and upcoming Yamaha R3. Let’s take a look.Aprilia 440cc faired motorcycle – Benvenuto in IndiaThe first set of images surfaced on the internet earlier this year. As of now, multi-cylinder motorcycle market hugely favours Royal Enfield. That said, there is enough wiggle room for sporty, fully-faired motorcycles from pedigree brands. That is where Yamaha is betting big with Yamaha R3 and MT-03.Aprilia 440cc faired motorcycle will feature a sporty design language reminiscent of its elder sibling RS 660. Previous test mules spotted in January featured full camouflage which gave very little hints as to what it was packing. New test mules seem to have production-ready body. There’s no branding on it and this won’t be final finishing.Previous spy shotsFairing is aggressive and we can see multiple cuts in it for airflow. It looks like it has a perimeter frame and it might get contrasting paint to accentuate. In this case, silver. Front fascia is likely to feature twin headlight design and there is an underbelly exhaust instead of a side-slung unit. All these attributes scream RS 660.What wonders it holds – ExpectedRider’s triangle will be aggressive and should command a lot of commitment from rider. We can see a muscular fuel tank and we hope it is around 17L to 20L for an impressive tank range. There is a functional visor and fairing-mounted ORVMs. We can see a rectangular fully-digital instrument cluster that is likely to be a TFT unit.Split seats are very probable and pillion seat had testing equipment strapped on. Split tail lights take inspiration from Ducati Diavel or Bajaj Dominar. There is no tyre hugger, which could be a part of production model. Other componentry includes a custom-design swingarm, single-disc setup at both ends, alloy wheels, USD telescopic front forks and mono-shock rear.Front brake seems to be of floating type. Because of the blurry image, can’t say for sure. Engine is likely to be a 440cc parallel-twin unit with around 45 bhp of power and 40 Nm of torque. 6-speed gearbox, ride-by-wire, slipper-clutch, quick shifter (bi-directional), DOHC setup, traction control, dual-channel ABS, cornering ABS are likely to be onboard. Launch timeline is unknown. But 2024 could be the year.Image Source : Powerdrift More

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    TVS Apache RTR 310 Spied Testing – Launch Soon

    TVS Apache RTR 310 SpiedBeing more agile and likely to be priced competitively, TVS Apache RTR 310 can register stronger sales in comparison to its faired siblingAs part of their agreement and shared 310cc platform, TVS initially offered the Apache RR310 whereas BMW Motorrad had G310R. Last year, BMW had launched its own faired version, G310RR. With that, it was only a matter of time when TVS came up with its own naked version – Apache RTR 310.TVS is likely to launch Apache RTR 310 by end of this month. It has now been spied for the first time. Design philosophy of TVS Apache RTR 310 will be similar to that of current breed of RTR motorcycles. These bikes borrow much of their styling from Draken concept that was unveiled in 2014.TVS Apache RTR 310 SpiedTVS Apache RTR 310 styling and featuresBeing the range-topping RTR motorcycle, TVS Apache RTR 310 is expected to get some additional ornamentation. The objective will be to project TVS Apache RTR 310 as the sportiest in its class. There can’t be any compromises in styling, as the bike will be up against the likes of KTM 390 Duke, 250 Duke and Honda CB300R.TVS Apache RTR 310 is expected to get all-LED lights, dominating front fascia, golden USD forks, sculpted fuel tank with shoulder fairing, sleek split seats and upswept exhaust. Some exclusive spicy colour themes are also likely. Just like its faired sibling, TVS Apache RTR 310 could also get customization option via TVS Built To Order platform.TVS Apache RTR 310 SpiedMuch of the equipment list will be borrowed from Apache RR310. However, there could be some differences such as a horizontally positioned TFT screen instead of the vertically mounted instrumentation available with RR310. TVS SmartXonnect connectivity suite is expected to be offered as standard with Apache RTR 310. It has functions such as calls and text management, ride details and turn-by-turn navigation.TVS Apache RTR 310 performance, specsPowering TVS Apache RTR 310 will be the 312.2cc, liquid cooled, single cylinder motor. It is mated to a 6-speed gearbox. The bike will be getting riding modes, which could be same as RR310. In Sport and Track mode, power output is 34 PS and 27.3 Nm. In Urban and Rain mode, output is limited to 25.8 PS and 25 Nm. To suit is roadster profile, it is possible that some engine tweaks can be introduced for RTR 310.Hardware will be mostly the same as RR310, but there could be some changes to suit city riding needs. RR310 has trellis frame with USD forks and monoshock rear suspension. Braking duties are performed by 300 mm and 240 mm petal discs at front and rear, respectively. Dual-channel ABS is offered as standard. Just like its faired sibling, Apache RTR 310 will be using Michelin Road 5 tyres.Source More

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    TVS Ronin Spied Testing In Indonesia – Launch Soon?

    TVS Ronin Indonesia TestingIn Indonesia, TVS Ronin spotted testing could signify a potential launch and fortify its presence even further by appealing to a wider audienceTVS Ronin is one of the company’s newest motorcycle. It had quite a mixed reception at launch as it was trying to cater to multiple genres at once. These genres include a scrambler, a cruiser and a street bike. It primarily rivals Royal Enfield Hunter 350 and to some extent, Dominar 250 and offers quite a unique proposition.TVS seems to be expanding its export envelope by shipping Ronin to ASEAN markets. Recently, a TVS Ronin spotted testing in Indonesia. This might be a strong indication of TVS’ intentions of launching Ronin there. Let’s take a look.TVS Ronin Indonesia launch soon?As of now, PT TVS Motor Company Indonesia offers Neo XR and Rockz in Moped series, Callisto, Ntorq, Dazz and XL100 in Matic series and Apache RTR 200 4V, Maxx and Maxx Semi Trail in Sport series. Ronin could be a worthy addition to the Sport series and be the new flagship there, offering slightly more performance than Apache RTR 200 4V.TVS Ronin spotted testing in a fuel station in Karawang, Indonesia. This is where PT TVS Motor Company has its manufacturing facility. KDW Motoblog posted these images for the first time. We can see a TVS Ronin motorcycle with some cladding on its fuel tank and other TVS branding covered in black duct tape.TVS Ronin Indonesia RearRonin’s LED DRL signature is very unique and nothing else out there looks like it. So, it is immediately identifiable as a Ronin. That said, the ones seen in Indonesia and Indian models are not identical, down to the last detail.For starters, there seems to be a different catalytic converter in the Indonesia-spec model’s exhaust system. This might be due to the fact that India has adopted the BS6 emission standard which is directly comparable to EURO 6 emission standards. While Indonesia still follows EURO 4 standards.Same powertrain, different power figuresBecause of this less-obtrusive catalytic converter, there is likely to be an increase in performance. We’re talking about around 5% to 10% higher power and torque figures as opposed to the Indian-spec model. Speaking of, 20.1 bhp of power and 19.93 Nm of torque in BS6 guise from a 225.9cc single-cylinder engine with oil-cooling and slipper clutch. Gearbox is a 5-speed unit.TVS Ronin Indonesia near Karawang plantOther than that, certain black elements on India-spec models like on front fender and exhaust cover, are silver in Indonesian models. Componentry like 41mm USD telescopic front forks, rear mono-shock, 130-section rear and 110-section front 17” tyres, dual-channel ABS, off-set circular instrument cluster, LED lighting are common between the two.TVS Ronin boasts impressive power delivery in lower RPMs. Looks are subjective, but TVS Ronin has its own charm too. Will that be enough to crack the Indonesian market in the sub 250cc segment? Time will tell.Source More

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    Small Electric Car From France Spied In India – MG Comet Rival

    Small Electric Car From FranceLigier Mygi electric car in its current state of European specifications delivers up to 123 km rangeIf you are a motorsport enthusiast, you must have heard of the French company Ligier. Especially for association with 24-Hour Le Mans races between 1970 and 1975 and Formula 1 racing between 1976 and 1996. Even though Ligier wanted to make a new sports car for the 50th anniversary, micro electric cars and CVs (Ligier Professional) are all they make right now.You must be wondering why we’re talking about a French company out of the blue. Reason is that Ligier seems to be willing to launch its most affordable model Mygi in India. Testing has commenced on Indian roads already. This is a 3-door micro electric car like the MG Comet. As of now, MG Comet is one of its kind in India and Ligier seems to have sniffed out an opportunity.Small Electric Car From FranceLigier Mygi Electric CarIndia is currently one of the fastest-growing countries in the world. Automotive market has seen unprecedented growth as well, with more people investing in personal vehicles than ever before. EVs are seeing spectacular growth too in 2W, 3W and 4W segments. As of now, there are 28 electric cars on sale in India.MG Comet is the smallest and the most affordable among these 28. Prices start from Rs. 7.98 lakh and go till Rs. 9.98 lakh (both prices ex-sh). This pricing is because MG assembles Comet in its Gujarat facility. This route only attracts 15% customs duty as opposed to 60% with CBU models. Also, MG has stressed on localisation too, which is up to 60% with Comet.Ligier Mygi electric carUnless Ligier is manufacturing Mygi or even assembling it in India, the price point is likely to be against it. Speaking of the Ligier Mygi electric car, it is currently the most affordable vehicle from the brand in PV space. Prices start from EUR 13,995 and go till EUR 21,695. In today’s currency conversion, it translates to Rs. 12.57 lakh to Rs. 19.49 lakh.What does it pack?Ligier Mygi electric car is on offer in four different trim levels in Europe. They are G.OOD, I.DEAL, E.PIC and R.EBEL. The first two trims get 63 km of range from a single charge. Base G.OOD offers 13” steel wheels, no audio system, but offers all-four disc brakes. I.DEAL adds 14” alloy wheels and a 1-DIN audio system.Top two trim levels feature an extended range of 123 km, 15” alloys, 10” touchscreen system with Android Auto and Apple CarPlay, a reverse camera and a few design additions. Even the extended 123 km range is kind of short, especially when MG Comet offers 230 km of claimed range.Source More

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    New Hero Maxi Scooter Spied Testing – Aerox 155 Rival?

    New Hero Maxi Scooter SpiedConsidering the maxi-scooter’s brawny proportions, the 163cc engine from Xtreme 160R seems like a perfect matchWith recent launch of Xtreme 160R 4V and upcoming Karizma fully-faired bike, it is evident that Hero MotoCorp has stepped up focus on premium segment. The company seems to be following a similar strategy for its scooter portfolio as well. Earlier this month, a design patent had revealed details about Hero’s new maxi-scooter.In the latest development, a maxi-scooter in camouflage has been spotted near Hero MotoCorp’s R&D centre in Jaipur. It appears to be largely the same as the scooter revealed in the design patent. As the test mule looks near-production ready, it won’t be surprising to see its launch around festive season or by end of this year. Hat tip to automotive enthusiast Pushpender for sharing these exclusive spy shots.New Hero Maxi Scooter SpiedHero maxi-scooter featuresSome of the key highlights of Hero’s first-ever maxi-scooter include split headlamp setup, angular front fascia, trendy rear view mirrors and sharp turn indicators. An all-LED lighting setup is likely for the scooter. It can be seen with a stubby upswept exhaust. Side panels have sharp design elements, which help achieve a sporty profile for the scooter.Raked design of the stepped seat ensures a sporty stance, all while allowing optimal control and handling across busy city streets. The single-piece seat seems comfortable for both rider and pillion. The test mule is missing the rear rack that was seen in the design patent. It is likely that the rear rack will be offered as an accessory. The scooter is equipped with an ergonomically placed handlebar.New Hero Maxi Scooter SpiedAlthough not clear in the images, it is likely that Hero’s new maxi-scooter will have a fully digital instrument console. It could get telematics features, accessible via Hero Connect mobile app. Some of the key telematics features could include ignition alert, SoS alert, accident/crash alert, topple alert, over-speed alert, theft alert, battery removal alert, geofence alert and remote immobilization.Hero maxi-scooter performance, specsHero’s maxi-scooter could be a rival to Yamaha Aerox 155. In that case, it could borrow the 163 cc, air-cooled engine from Xtreme 160R. It generates 15 bhp of max power and 14 Nm of peak torque. Some tweaks could be performed to align the engine with the specific needs of the scooter. For reference, Aerox 155 is equipped with a 155cc, liquid cooled engine. It makes 15 PS and 13.9 Nm.Hero new maxi-scooter has telescopic forks at front and a single-sided monoshock unit at rear. It gets a disc brake at front. Single-channel ABS could be offered as standard. One of the most notable features is the large alloy wheels, which appear to be 14-inch units. Large wheels not only improve street presence, but also offer smoother and safer rides across bad patches.To push sales, Hero could offer its first-ever maxi-scooter at an affordable price. While Aerox 155 is available at a starting price of Rs 1.43 lakh, Hero maxi scooter could be launched at around Rs 1.20 lakh (ex.sh). More

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    Royal Enfield Shotgun 350 Spied Alongside Classic 650 – New Details

    New Royal Enfield MotorcyclesWhile Classic 650 has been spotted earlier, this is the first time Shotgun 350 is seen on road testsRoyal Enfield is working diligently on its blitzkrieg mission by introducing a plethora of options for enthusiasts. As per plans, RE will be launching an average of 4 new / updated bikes every year till 2027. It will help tackle competition from new rivals as well as increase the brand’s presence in international markets.While one of the most awaited is the all-new Himalayan 450, Royal Enfield is also working to expand its 350cc and 650cc range. Latest spy shots reveal two new bikes, which are likely to be Shotgun 350 and Classic 650. Spotted without any camouflage, some of the finer details are clearly evident.New Royal Enfield MotorcyclesShotgun 350 styling and featuresShotgun 350 utilizes the signature features of Royal Enfield bikes. It includes the round headlamp and rear-view mirrors, curvy fuel tank design, minimal body panelling and wide rear fender. However, there are some unique features that ensure a distinctive identity for the bike. For example, Shotgun 350 has white wall tyres, which add more character to the bike. The one thing that stands out is the Ape Hanger handlebars. The bike has forward-set foot pegs, indicative of its cruising capabilities.Other key highlights of Shotgun 350 include telescopic front forks, wire-spoke wheels, side-mounted grab rails, split seat design and dual rear shock absorbers. It appears that some of the accessories are also being tested, as the bike can be seen with a side pannier.New Royal Enfield MotorcyclesIn terms of performance, Shotgun 350 will be using the 349cc, air-oil cooled single cylinder engine seen with other 350cc RE bikes. It generates 20.2 bhp of max power and 27 Nm of peak torque. It is mated to a 5-speed constant mesh gearbox.Classic 650 detailsClassic 650 borrows the timeless design of its smaller sibling in most parts. It is possible that both wire-spoke and alloy wheel variants could be on offer. While this test mule has wire-spoke wheels, an earlier sighting had revealed dual-tone alloy wheels.Classic 650 gets some unique features such as LED headlight, as compared to halogen light used with the smaller sibling. Classic 650 has liberal use of chrome, as seen on the headlamp, engine casing and exhaust pipes. The separate rider and pillion seats enhance the bike’s retro feel.New Royal Enfield MotorcyclesPowering Classic 650 will be the 648cc parallel-twin engine in use with 650 twins and Super Meteor 650. The engine generates 47 hp and 52.3 Nm of peak torque. It is mated to a 6-speed constant mesh gearbox.As both bikes appear production ready, launch could take place later this year. It is possible that Royal Enfield may officially unveil its new bikes at upcoming EICMA in November. Shotgun 350 and Classic 650 are expected to be offered at a competitive price point, as has been the case with all other Royal Enfield bikes.Source More

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    Maruti EVX Electric SUV spied for first time – Launch in 2025

    Maruti EVX Electric SUV spiedMaruti Suzuki EVX electric SUV will have a 60-kWh battery pack, with range of up to 550 kmInternally codenamed YY8, Maruti Suzuki had showcased the EVX electric SUV concept at 2023 Auto Expo. It will be the company’s first born-electric car and is expected to debut next year. It will go on sale in 2025. One of the key rivals will be upcoming Hyundai Creta EV.Ahead of its launch, a Suzuki EVX electric SUV has been spotted at a charging station in Krakow, Poland. The test mule wears a black camouflage, not intending to reveal the finer details. However, the tight wrapping does show a close resemblance to the concept version.Maruti EVX Electric SUV spiedSuzuki EVX electric SUV featuresAs compared to the heavily muscled concept, the test mule appears to have a relatively toned-down styling. However, quite a few features have been carried forward such as the butch front fascia, sculpted bonnet design and thick body cladding. The SUV has a tapering roofline, which helps achieve a sporty profile. At rear, Suzuki EVX will have a layered spoiler, rugged bumper and edgy tail lamps with full-width connecting LED strip.Suzuki EVX test mule can be seen with temporary lighting all across. It has a standard set of alloy wheels, which are likely to be changed onboard the production version. The concept version had aerodynamic alloy wheels, especially designed to reduce drag. Other noticeable features include C-pillar mounted rear door handles, shark fin antenna and rear wiper.Maruti EVX Electric SUV spiedInside, the test mule has a number of wires dangling around. It clearly shows that this test vehicle is largely a work-in-progress. A significant section of the dashboard has been camouflaged. It does appear to have a simple, minimalistic design.Maruti EVX Electric SUV interiors spiedSome features that are clearly visible include a two-spoke flat-bottom steering wheel, steering mounted controls and a rotary control dial on the centre console. The showstopper is a large, horizontally mounted touchscreen infotainment system and digital instrument console.Suzuki EVX electric SUV performanceAs compared to other OEMs that are converting existing ICE cars into electric, Maruti Suzuki will move directly to born-electric vehicles. Suzuki EVX electric SUV is based on an entirely new platform. It will be used to develop a range of future EVs. Overall performance of Suzuki EVX electric SUV will closely match that of similar-sized ICE SUVs such as Hyundai Creta.Maruti EVX Electric SUV spiedSuzuki EVX electric SUV will be equipped with a 60-kWh battery pack, offering a range of up to 550 km. The electric motor is expected to deliver around 138-170 hp of max power. Both 2WD and all-wheel drive options will be available.With a dedicated EV platform, Suzuki EVX will have spacious interiors. It will be 4,300 mm long, 1,800 mm wide and 1,600 mm tall. Wheelbase is expected to be best in segment. The SUV will have large wheels, which will ensure a strong street presence and high ground clearance.Source More

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    New Hero Motorcycle Spied – Xtreme 125cc to rival Pulsar 125?

    New Hero Xtreme 125R spied. Image – MRD VlogsUpon launch, Hero new commuter bike will rival the likes of TVS Raider, Bajaj Pulsar NS125 and Honda SP 125While Hero is the market leader in commuter motorcycle segment, there’s heavy reliance on Splendor 100cc bike. In April, share of Splendor in overall sales was more than 2/3rd. From a business perspective, this is quite like putting all your eggs in one basket.For a more diversified portfolio, Hero MotoCorp has been working on a new range of bikes. It comprises both new commuter bikes as well as premium offerings in middleweight segment. Xtreme 160R 4V was recently launched at Rs 1.36 lakh. Karizma XMR is expected to be launched later this year. Hero is also developing a new maxi scooter. These clearly indicate that Hero MotoCorp is looking to reduce dependence on its 100cc commuter bikes.New Hero Xtreme 125R spiedHero new commuter bike detailsStandard telescopic suspension and rear drum brake indicate that the test mule is a new 125cc commuter bike. With TVS Raider being the primary rival, Hero new bike has a sporty profile. Some key features include sharp headlamp, sculpted fuel tank with extensions, compact rear-view mirrors, sleek turn signals, all-LED lighting, split-seat design and stubby exhaust. The bike has a short tail section and rear tyre hugger.Hero new commuter bike can be seen with a fully digital instrument cluster. This could be the same or similar to the one used with other 125cc Hero bikes such as Glamour XTEC and Super Splendor XTEC. Or it could be similar to the inverted LCD console used with recently launched Xtreme 160R. To present it as a capable machine, Hero could equip the new commuter bike with Bluetooth connectivity.New Hero Xtreme 125R spiedAll while having a sporty profile, the bike has a comfortable riding stance. It has wide, pulled-back handlebar and centrally mounted foot pegs. Rider seat section has a scooped profile, ensuring lower seat height and optimal comfort. Pillion seat section appears a bit narrow, although the thick grab rails should be able to ensure adequate stability.New Hero Xtreme 125R spiedHero new commuter bike performanceHero new commuter bike is likely to borrow the 125cc motor from Hero’s other 125cc bikes. On-board Glamour XTEC and Splendor XTEC, the air-cooled engine churns out 10.7 bhp of max power and 10.6 Nm of peak torque. It is mated to a 5-speed gearbox.The bike has telescopic forks at front and a monoshock unit at rear. Braking duties are performed by a disc brake at front and a drum brake at rear. The bike is likely to be using 18-inch wheels at both ends.Hero’s new commuter bike could be launched later this year. Possibly around the festive season. Hero could be planning to launch the bike at a competitive price point. For reference, rival TVS Raider is available at a starting price of Rs 93,719 (ex-showroom Delhi). More