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    Upcoming Mahindra XUV700 Electric SUV Spied In Bangalore

    Off all the INGLO platform based vehicles, Mahindra XUV.e8 is the one that will launch firstMahindra XUV700 Electric SpiedMahindra is set to roll the dice and step into the EV game hard. But it is also targeting global markets. Hence, Mahindra has shied away from budget offerings and has gone full regalia with premium products based on INGLO platform. That said, Mahindra unveiled XUV400 electric earlier this month and will be the company’s cheapest offering.Speaking of INGLO platform based products, Mahindra has showcased five different concepts falling under two different lineups. They are XUV.e series and BE series. XUV.e series are based on XUV branded ICE SUVs. But not BE. As the name implies, they are Born Electric from the ground up and won’t get ICE versions based on them. Off the lot, XUV.e8 will be the first to roll out as it is based on ICE-powered XUV700. Mahindra has also started testing XUV.e8 in India. Let’s take a look.Mahindra XUV700 Electric SpiedXUV.e8 will be the first to launch. At that same August 15 event, Mahindra had displayed a working prototype of the same. Looking at the XUV700 Electric spied testing in India, it is completely camouflaged and is exactly identical to the XUV700 that we currently have. Even its wheels are identical.XUV.e8 prototype has the same profile as XUV700. But, the front and rear were different. When compared to XUV700’s alloy wheels, XUV.e8 prototype that was showcased in Britain, got futuristic aero wheels. This is to reduce aerodynamic drag and help reduce its air drag coefficient. Hence, maximising range. Hat tip to Manju MN for sharing exclusive spy shots on Rushlane Spylane Facebook Group.Mahindra XUV700 Electric SpiedManju even got a chance to have a chat with the team that were testing the XUV700 Electric. It was spotted in Ecospace, Bangalore. They had come to test the SUV in waterlogged streets. Launch is not scheduled for this year.The prototype showcased in the UK, was wrapped in a matte black wrap with copper-coloured textures all around. This copper colour is to Mahindra, what Electric Blue is to Tata. A signification of EVs. All Mahindra EVs will carry copper accents. Front gets a massive LED DRL which looks striking, to say the least. Headlights are sleeker than XUV700 and have copper elements. Even its Twin Peaks logo gets a copper finish surrounded by purple LED.Specs & FeaturesMahindra’s INGLO platform, which is sourced from Volkswagen’s MEB platform, is scalable from 60 kWh to 80 kWh. XUV.e8 might get either an RWD layout with 228 bhp or an AWD layout with 335 bhp. When it comes to interiors, Mahindra has outdone itself. XUV700 has two horizontal screens, whereas XUV.e8 gets three. One is for the driver’s display, one is for the central infotainment system and the third screen seems to be for the front passenger.Mahindra XUV700 Electric SpiedIt is set to launch around 2024. When launched, it will be slotted above MG ZS EV and below Volvo XC40 Recharge, Kia EV6 and the likes. MG ZS EV gets around 50 kWh worth of juice. While EV6 and XC40 Recharge get around 80 kWh worth of juice. With 60 kWh, XUV.e8 seems to be a logical EV for this segment.  More

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    2023 Bajaj Pulsar N 150 In New Spy Shots – More Sporty

    As part of the ongoing initiative to update the Pulsar range, Bajaj is expected to launch Pulsar N150 soon2023 Bajaj Pulsar N150 Spied TestingLaunch of Pulsar 250 twins was a major milestone for Bajaj, as it demonstrated a significant leap in performance as well as a new, sportier design language. Taking Pulsar 250 twins as the benchmark, Bajaj is looking to introduce a similar set of features for other Pulsar motorcycles.After N160, the next in line to get the updates include Pulsar 150 and Pulsar NS125. These two are among the primary volume generators for the company. Bajaj will be looking to launch the updated versions in the shortest possible time.2023 Pulsar N 150 spottedTwo variants of Pulsar N 150 have been spotted, one with disc-drum combo and another with disc brakes at both ends. While the test mules are fully camouflaged, the contours and outlines look familiar to pulsar 250 twins and N 160. It is apparent that some signature features of Pulsar 150 will be retained to ensure a distinctive identity.It is easy to see that Pulsar N 150 has a more aggressive profile, as compared to existing Pulsar 150. Headlamp cowl has a sharper design and front mudguard has been shortened to achieve a sporty look and feel. Tank Shrouds and side panels appear to be similar to existing variant, but Pulsar N150 is likely to get sportier graphics and decals. Some new colour options are also likely.2023 Bajaj Pulsar N150 Spied TestingIn terms of performance, one of the key updates is monoshock rear suspension. Existing Pulsar 150 has dual-rear shock absorbers. While both suspension setups have their advantages, a monoshock suspension is known to improve stability and handling. Monoshock ensures more precise damping, thereby allowing agile characteristics for the bike. This will be useful for tackling busy city streets. However, monoshock suspension is not so great for carrying heavy loads.Pulsar N150 performanceJust like N160, Pulsar N150 could also get some performance updates. For example, recently launched Pulsar N160 has been equipped with an updated engine that promises faster acceleration and improved reliability. Relevant changes have been incorporated to ensure smoother gear shifts and reduced noise and vibrations. Upcoming Pulsar N150 could also benefit from a similar set of updates.In its current form, Bajaj Pulsar 150 is powered by a 149.50 cc motor that generates 14 PS of max power at 8,500 rpm and 13.25 Nm of peak torque at 6,500 rpm. It is mated to a 5-speed gearbox. The bike has 17-inch wheels at both ends, shod with 90/90 front and 120/80 rear tubeless tyres (dual-disc variant).2023 Bajaj Pulsar N150 Spied Testing2022 Pulsar N 150 is expected to be launched at around the same price as that of existing model. It will depend on the overall quantum of updates introduced for N150. Current Pulsar 150 is available at Rs 1.14 lakh. Pulsar N150 will rival the likes of Honda Unicorn, Yamaha FZ-Fi Version 3.0 and TVS Apache RTR 160.Source More

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    New Hero Maestro Xoom Scooter Spied – Honda Activa Rival

    While Hero leads in motorcycle segment, its scooter portfolio doesn’t have any segment bestsellers like Honda Activa or TVS JupiterNew Hero Maestro Xoom Scooter SpiedApart from Hero MotoCorp, other two-wheeler manufacturers have also launched products to take on Activa. However, sales numbers indicate that Activa continues to dominate. In August 2022, Activa had close to 50% market share among the top 10 scooters in the month.In case of Hero MotoCorp, it’s 110cc scooters like Pleasure and Maestro Edge 110 are way behind Activa. While Pleasure was at sixth spot in August, Maestro Edge did not even make it in top ten. In an attempt to fix this gap, Hero will soon launch a new 110cc scooter named Maestro Xoom. The new name has already been registered by the company, with trademark approval received earlier this year in June.New Hero Maestro Xoom Scooter SpiedWith the Maestro prefix, it would be safe to assume that the new scooter will have most of the features currently offered with Maestro Edge scooter. Maestro Xoom will not stop at that; instead, it will come with an additional set of features to emerge as a more capable rival to Honda Activa. Hero’s new scooter was showcased at a dealer event and only limited information is available as of now.One of the key upgrades for Hero Maestro Xoom is a full digital instrument console with Bluetooth connectivity. Users should be able to pair their smartphones to access phone functions like calls, SMS, music, etc. Things like ride analytics and remote functions may also be available. Hero’s current breed of 110cc scooters like Pleasure and Maestro Edge 110cc are equipped with a semi-digital instrument console. Latest spy shots of the new Hero Maestro XOOM are credited to X Automobile.New Hero Maestro Xoom Scooter SpiedHero Maestro Xoom can be more economical, as it will have the company’s proprietary i3S technology. i3S can sense when the engine is idling, for example, at a traffic signal. In such situations, it automatically shuts down the engine. The scooter restarts on its own when the clutch is engaged by the rider. i3S is primarily designed to save fuel. It can be activated via a dedicated switch on the handlebar. Users can keep it switched off if they like.Other key differentiating factors for Hero Maestro Xoom include cornering headlamp and 12-inch alloy wheels at front and rear. Existing Maestro Edge has 12-inch front and 10-inch rear wheels. Visually, the silhouette looks familiar to Maestro Edge 110cc. However, Maestro Xoom has a completely refreshed front fascia with Apron-mounted X-styled headlamp. Rear tail lamp also gets the ‘X’ treatment.Hero Maestro Xoom performanceHero is unlikely to make any performance tweaks to Maestro Xoom, as the current motor doesn’t seem lacking in performance. The 110.9 cc, air cooled motor onboard Maestro Edge generates 8 hp of max power at 7,250 rpm and 8.7 Nm of peak torque at 5,750 rpm. It is mated to a variomatic drive.Hero Maestro Xoom is likely to be positioned above existing Maestro Edge 110cc, thereby commanding a slightly premium pricing. Hero Maestro Edge 110cc is available at Rs 66,820 (drum) and Rs 73,498 (disc variant). More

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    2023 Tata Altroz Spied Testing With Camo – Electric Or Facelift?

    Tata Altroz is the safest premium hatchback in the country followed by Jazz, i20 and Baleno2023 Tata Altroz Spied Testing – Single Tone AlloysTata Motors was shooting for gold when it launched Altroz in India. Hence they call it the gold standard in premium hatchback segment. Altroz makes a very compelling case if you ask us. It has one of a kind, 90-degree opening doors, it has all the features and creature comforts one can expect from this segment.It even looks good too and to top it all off, it scores 5-stars in Global NCAP crash test which is pretty much unrivalled in the segment. Tata even took a dig at i20 and Baleno calling them tricks while it is the real treat. But last time we checked, Baleno is currently the highest-selling car of any segment in India. i20 makes it to top 10 hatchbacks list.Tata needs to do something to spruce up this segment. In that regard, we recently received new spy shots of 2023 Altroz currently being tested on road. But what can it be? Altroz CNG, Altroz EV or Altroz Facelift? Let’s take a closer look.2023 Tata Altroz SpiedHat tip to automotive enthusiast Rajeesh Kumar for sharing these exclusive spy shots on Rushlane Spylane. It is likely to be a model year 2023 Altroz and is fully camouflaged. Altroz CNG is being under testing since 2021 and just last month, we even spied an Altroz CNG with emission testing equipment. But this new test mule isn’t equipped with emission testing gear.2023 Tata Altroz Spied Testing – Rear ProfileSo, what is it then? It could be a facelift of the current Altroz. We say this because Altroz has been on sale since January 2020. Which is 2.5 years ago and has not gotten a single update since launch. It got a Dark Edition option and that’s it. But, i20 and especially Baleno trailing way ahead of Altroz. Hence, Tata is likely to launch a facelift to re-establish interests around its gold standard and drive sales further.Coming to the test mule in question, it seems to be the top-trim as it gets rear defogger and rear washer with wiper. The wiper is somehow not present. But it is a top-spec trim. One notable change that we could spot in an instance is that this test mule gets single-tone alloy wheels. While outgoing model gets dual-tone alloys.Upcoming Altroz EV?Coming to the last set of predictions, it also has a very high chance of being the production version of Altroz EV. We say this because test mule has a cutout for exhaust tip to jut out. But an exhaust is not visible from the camera’s angle. Altroz EV was first showcased at 2020 Auto Expo.2023 Tata Altroz Spied Testing – EV?This test mule might be an EV as Tata Motors is expanding its EV portfolio vigorously with the recent announcement of Tiago EV. 2023 Altroz EV was supposed to get the same battery pack as Nexon EV Prime and around 350 to 400 km of claimed range. Right now, Altroz gets a 1.2L petrol engine option and a 1.5L diesel engine option and competes with Honda Jazz, Hyundai i20, Maruti Baleno, and the likes. More info will revolve soon. More

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    New BYD Atto 3 Electric SUV Spied Undisguised Ahead Of Launch

    Based on BYD’s advanced E platform that’s engineered to challenge the likes of Tesla, Atto 3 is expected to have better drive dynamics than rivalsNew BYD Atto 3 Electric SUV SpiedAfter launching e6 electric MPV in India, Chinese automaker BYD (Build Your Dreams) is looking to aggressively target the electric SUV segment. BYD’s first offering in this space will be Atto 3, which is scheduled for launch on October 11. The Warren Buffett-backed EV maker will initially target big cities and has already opened showrooms in Delhi and Mumbai.BYD Atto 3 will be initially imported into India as SKD (semi-knocked down) units. The SUV will be assembled at the company’s facility in Sriperumbudur near Chennai. Based on demand, BYD can think about producing Atto 3 locally at a later date. As it will be taking the SKD route that attracts taxes, Atto 3 will have premium pricing of around Rs 30 lakh to Rs 35 lakh. Deliveries are expected to commence early next year.New BYD Atto 3 Electric SUV SpiedAhead of launch next month, the new BYD SUV has been spied undisguised near Chennai. Hat tip to automotive enthusiast Ponsam Charles for sharing these exclusive images with Rushlane Spylane.Atto 3 electric SUV will primarily rival the likes of MG ZS EV and Hyundai Kona Electric. It may be pricier than rivals, but packs a punch in terms of segment-first features. For example, Atto 3 has ADAS features such as blind spot monitoring, autonomous emergency braking, lane keep assist and departure warning, front and rear collision warning, rear cross traffic alert and rear cross traffic brake.New BYD Atto 3 Electric SUV SpiedOther highlights include a large 12.8 inch touchscreen infotainment system with adjustable rotation, which is again a segment-first feature. Atto 3 electric SUV has panoramic sunroof, USB type-C charging, wireless charging, 5-inch digital instrument panel and Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. A range of connected car features are offered via BYD DiLink Intelligent Connection System.In comparison to its rivals in India, Atto 3 is expected to be roomier on the inside. It’s around 4.5 meter long, as compared to 4,323 mm of MG ZS EV and 4,180 mm of Kona Electric. Just for perspective, recently unveiled Mahindra XUV400 is 4.2 meter in length. Atto 3 has a sporty exterior body profile, which should help enhance its prospects in India.As available in international markets, BYD Atto 3 has a range of 480 km when powered by a 60.48kWh battery pack. Another variant with 49.92kWh battery pack is also offered, which has a range of 320 km. When an 80 kWh DC charger is used, Atto 3 can achieve a full charge in just 45 minutes. The electric motor used onboard the SUV delivers 204 PS and 310 Nm. It can reach 0 to 100 kmph in 7.3 seconds.BYD Mumbai showroom launchedAfter Okhla showroom in Delhi, BYD has opened its first showroom in Mumbai. It is apparent that the country’s financial capital will be a key market for BYD’s pure electric vehicles. It’s also because there’s greater acceptance for EVs in Mumbai region.BYD’s outlets will be managed by Landmark Cars, which also operates outlets of other brands such as Jeep, Volkswagen and Mercedes-Benz. BYD Mumbai outlet is spread across an area of 2000 sq. ft., equipped with display floor, customer lounge and charging stations. More

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    2023 Yamaha XMax 300cc Scooter Spied – Honda Forza Rival

    In terms of exterior design, the XMax 300 test mule spotted overseas appears largely the same as current model2023 Yamaha XMax 300ccAs there’s hardly any difference in the skin, it’s likely that Yamaha may be focusing on upgrading the equipment list offered with XMax 300. For example, some new features could be introduced. Another possibility is a new variant, but it’s too early to accurately define such possibilities.Some key features of Yamaha XMax 300 maxi-scooter include an aggressive front fascia, full LED lighting, large windscreen, comfortable riding stance, step-up seat, chunky exhaust and large underseat storage. XMax 300 is preferred for its powerful performance and agile handling, all while offering the comforts typically associated with a scooter.2023 Yamaha XMax 300 to get quieter exhaust?While it’s not clear why XMax 300 is out there on road tests, it may have something to do with upcoming European Union noise restrictions. The official EU statement says that the existing Euro 5 noise limits will be revised and implemented as a separate act. The quantum of changes in noise limit and when exactly it will be implemented is yet to be finalized.However, as OEMs work in a proactive manner, Yamaha may have started working on the exhaust note of XMax 300 even before the new rules are enforced. XMax 300 currently has a throaty exhaust note, which may not comply with the new noise limits. Updated Euro 5 noise limits may take some time to implement, as OEMs and their suppliers will need to make multiple changes. Subsequently, these will need to be tested for reliability and performance in addition to the compliance part.2023 Yamaha XMax 300ccA cost-benefit analysis for different sound levels and their associated practicality and efficacy is currently being evaluated by the European Association of Motorcycle Manufacturers (ACEM). As per existing Euro 5 regulations, motorcycles with 175cc engines and above are required to have a noise limit of 80 decibels.Focus is on two-wheelers, as these are among the major contributors to noise pollution. European Union wants to have quieter cities, which is where the revised noise limits will be playing a crucial role. Enforcement of the new noise limit rules will be done with the help of noise radars that are already functional in European cities like Paris.2023 XMax 300 specs unchangedWhile the upcoming version of XMax 300 may be quieter, there are unlikely to be any major changes to the hardware. It may be possible to comply with updated Euro 5 noise limits just by introducing some changes to the exhaust setup. Yamaha XMax 300 is powered by a 292cc, liquid cooled motor that generates 28 PS of max power at 7,250 rpm and 29 Nm of peak torque at 5,750 rpm. It is mated to a V-belt automatic transmission.Suspension system comprises telescopic forks at front and swingarm unit at rear. Both ends have disc brakes, 267 mm front and 245 mm rear. Other key features of Yamaha XMax 300 include traction control system (TCS), smart key with remote locking, 12V outlet at front and white-on-black LCD instrument console. Upon launch, 2023 Yamaha XMax 300cc will take on the Honda Forza 300.Source More

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    2023 Ather Electric Scooter Spied – New Affordable Variant?

    Ather new electric scooter could get a smaller battery pack, which could mean lower range in comparison to 450X and 450 Plus2023 Ather Electric Scooter SpiedHigh acquisition cost is a key factor that is limiting sales of electric two-wheelers. It’s true that EV sales have registered triple-digit YoY growth in recent times. But overall numbers are still a fraction of ICE-based two-wheeler sales. That ICE two-wheelers continue to register positive growth shows electric two-wheelers are still out of reach of a large section of the masses.While the likes of Hero Electric have been able to match pricing of entry-level ICE-based two-wheelers, it will be difficult for Ather to achieve the same due to the advanced battery packs and hi-tech features offered with 450X and 450 Plus.2023 Ather Electric Scooter SpiedAs a solution, Ather appears to be working on a new scooter that will have a smaller battery pack and hence could be offered at a lower price point. This is something similar to Ola Electric that recently launched a more affordable Ola S1 at Rs 1 lakh with a range of 141 km.2023 Ather Electric Scooter is expected to have the same level of performance as that of 450X and 450 Plus. Only thing is that range will be less with the smaller battery pack. Top speed could also be impacted to some extent. There are unlikely to be any compromises on equipment list, as Ather is positioned as a lifestyle product. Ather new electric scooter will have features such as OTA updates, touchscreen display, turn-by-turn navigation, etc.2023 Ather Electric Scooter SpiedIt is likely that Ather new electric scooter will be based on 450X Gen 3, which was launched earlier this year in July. It comes with a range of upgrades such as a certified range of 146 km. True range is 105 km. It has a 25% bigger 3.7 kWh battery pack. With use of performance tyres, stopping distance has been reduced and grip on wet roads has improved by 22%. Dashboard interactions are now 80% faster, ensuring smoother maps and faster loading of apps.Why launch affordable variant?There are multiple reasons why OEMs have launched or are working to launch affordable versions of their existing scooters. One likely reason is rise in input costs, which has forced EV manufacturers to increase prices. Such price hikes have made these EVs even more inaccessible to a large section of consumers.Second reason is discontinuation of state EV subsidies, as already announced by states like Goa and Maharashtra. It is possible that more states could discontinue EV subsidy, something that will push EV prices significantly. Even central government EV subsidy available under FAME II is set to expire on March 31, 2024. It has already received an extension, so is unlikely to get another one.2023 Ather Electric Scooter SpiedAnother factor is that recharging infrastructure is now more easily accessible, as compared to earlier times. For example, Ather has more than 350 charging stations spread across more than 30 cities. And it’s only getting better with every passing day. So, even with low range, users don’t have to worry about getting stranded.Source More

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    Royal Enfield Himalayan 450 Spied With Adventure Panniers

    Royal Enfield Himalayan 450 ADV comes across as an impressive rally-raid machine that will surely have better capabilities than Himalayan 411Royal Enfield Himalayan 450 Touring Accessories SpiedConsidering Royal Enfield’s new-gen products such as Hunter and upcoming 450 ADV, it’s clear that the Chennai-based manufacturer is upping its game in a big way. Like Bajaj, Royal Enfield may also have plans for a much larger footprint in global markets. RE has promised an average of one new product every quarter and things seem to be going as per plans.While Himalayan 411cc has its merits, it lacks the numbers when compared to rivals like KTM 390 Adventure. The latter has 44 bhp, as compared to a modest 24.3 bhp of Himalayan. Even in actual ride conditions, users have pointed to Himalayan’s limitations when it comes to negotiating steeper inclines in slippery conditions. All such issues are set to be resolved with Royal Enfield 450 ADV.Royal Enfield Himalayan 450 PanniersRelative to Royal Enfield’s standard design language, this new ADV bike has a radically different profile. There’s hardly any resemblance to Himalayan, which is likely to be intentional. RE may want to protect this 450 ADV from any type of known inadequacies associated with its predecessor. Retro flavour stands reduced, limited to features like round headlamp and circular instrument dial.Considering its largely unkempt profile, it is apparent that the bike will be getting some more skin and refinements as it nears production stage. Some key features include a muscular tank, front racks, split seat design and compact exhaust. While the test mule spotted does not have a bash plate, the production variant is most likely to get one.Royal Enfield Himalayan 450 Touring Accessories SpiedOne of the biggest updates is USD front forks, a first for a Royal Enfield motorcycle. At rear, the bike has monoshock mounted on the right side. It links the swingarm to the central frame located under the fuel tank. Rear suspension is expected to have preload adjustability. It appears to have long travel for handling the most gruelling off-road tracks.Things that are similar to Himalayan include 21-inch front and 17-inch rear wire-spoked wheels. The bike has disc brakes at both ends and dual-channel switchable ABS is likely to be offered as standard. Riding ergonomics look quite comfortable and low seat height will ensure optimal balance and handling. Latest spy shots show the new Himalayan 450 wearing touring accessories – metal panniers.Royal Enfield 450 ADV performanceEngine deployed is a compact, single-cylinder unit. This one has liquid cooling and the engine head leans forward at an angle. Engine of other single-cylinder Royal Enfield bikes have an upright head. While specs are yet to be revealed, Royal Enfield 450 ADV can be expected to match or narrow the performance gap with rivals like 390 Adventure, BMW G310GS and upcoming Hero Xpulse 300.Royal Enfield Himalayan 450 Touring Accessories SpiedIn line with its rally-raid profile, Royal Enfield 450 ADV can get features such as assist and slipper clutch, GPS navigation, ride modes and ride-by-wire system. Customization options will also be available, as the bike has significant scope for enhancing its capabilities with a range of accessories.Source More