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    2024 Mahindra XUV700 electric spied testing – Launch next year

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

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

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

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    Simple One Electric Scooter Spied Testing Few Days Before Launch

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

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    Tata Punch Electric Spied On Towing Truck – Interiors Leak

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

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    Citroen C3 Aircross Electric 7 Seater SUV Spied For 1st Time?

    Citroen C3 Aircross Electric Spied?When launched, Citroen eC3 Aircross could pack close to 40 kWh battery, enabling a range of around 450 km on a single chargeThe French brand hatched C-Cubed strategy to tackle the tricky Indian automotive market. This plan involved targeting mainstream segments that generate the most volumes in India and heavy localization of up to 95%. We got C3 Hatchback, its electric derivative eC3 and recently, C3 Aircross 7-seater compact SUV.At the C3 Aircross debut event, Citroen had expressed its intention of launching an electrified version of its 7-seater compact SUV. Now, Citroen seems to have commenced testing of eC3 Aircross. This will be India’s first sub Rs. 20 lakh electric 7-seater.Citroen eC3 Aircross Spied Testing?Automotive enthusiast Venkat Ram spotted this test mule in Chennai recently and shared the same on Rushlane Spylane Facebook group. In the short video, this test mule is fully draped in camouflage despite debuting already. At first glance, it looks like a regular Citroen C3 Aircross test mule.On keener inspection, we can see its battery module jutting out of its skateboard. We saw something similar in our first drive impressions of eC3. But on the eC3 hatchback, a 29.2 kWh battery module is only visible from the side and not from the rear. On the recent test mule, a battery pack is evident from the rear as well.[embedded content]This could be an indication of a larger battery spread out till the rear. So, a 40 kWh battery could be possible, considering the smaller Nexon EV Max gets a 40.5 kWh battery. The test mule dons a temporary registration plate dated 2021, which seems to be in line with Citroen’s product development as the first set of eC3 test mules are believed to be registered in 2020.What will it pack other than an electric powertrain?Everything Citroen offers on C3 Aircross and some more. For starters, Citroen eC3 Aircross will pack the same interiors as its ICE counterpart along with a drive selector and center console from eC3 Hatchback. So, a 10.2” horizontal touchscreen infotainment display with wireless Android Auto and Apple CarPlay, a digital driver’s display, and steering-mounted controls will be on offer.Apart from these, roof-mounted rear AC vents, an option between seven and five seating layouts, quirky styling, swanky 17” alloy wheels, roof rails, and LED DRLs are highly likely. While at it, we hope Citroen throws in LED headlights, LED fog lamps, cruise control, keyless entry, and probably even a sunroof, considering how trendy it is in India.Launch Price Around Rs 15-20 Lakh?Hyundai is testing an electrified Creta to launch in India. It could share powertrains with Kona EV and will rival Mahindra XUV400, MG ZS EV and to some extent, the smaller Tata Nexon EV Max. Citroen eC3 Aircross will lock horns with these EVs when launched. It can offer a claimed range of about 450 km and a real-world range of 350 km.The Ace in this French car maker’s sleeve will definitely be quirky styling and 7 seats (5+2). Current eC3 hatchback costs between Rs. 11.50 lakh and Rs. 12.43 lakh. Which is around Rs. 5 lakh over its ICE counterparts. If ICE C3 Aircross starts from Rs. 8.5 to Rs. 9 lakh, eC3 Aircross is likely to cost from around Rs. 16 lakh (all prices ex-sh). More

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    Royal Enfield Himalayan 450 New Spy Video – Testing Inside City

    Royal Enfield Himalayan 450Royal Enfield Himalayan 450 will rival the likes of KTM 390 Adventure, BMW G310GS and upcoming Hero Xpulse 420Royal Enfield is creating a new 450cc range and the first model to be launched will be Himalayan 450. Later, other models can also be introduced such as Scram 450. Himalayan 450 will be essentially looking to fix the shortcomings of current 411cc Himalayan, all while continuing with the affordable pricing policy.Himalayan 450 was recently spotted inside the city, in what appears to be production-ready format. It indicates that the bike could be launched soon. It can be offered at a starting price of around Rs 2.5 lakh. Latest spy shots are credited to automotive enthusiast Hanish.Himalayan 450 Testing Inside The CityAs compared to the current model, Himalayan 450 will have improved aesthetics, new equipment and more power and torque to conquer challenging terrains. The bike will have evolved capabilities for urban streets as well. Some of the key features of Himalayan 450 include all-LED lighting, fully digital instrument console and USD front forks. As of now, none of the existing single cylinder RE bikes have these features.Other highlights of Himalayan 450 include raised front beak, a compact windscreen, upmarket switchgear, large radiator at front, rugged engine guard and new brake fluid reservoir. The bike has rally-style foot pegs for improved traction in slippery conditions. Rubber inserts will be available for foot pegs, allowing users to customize based on their riding conditions.[embedded content][embedded content]In terms of ergonomics, the bike has a fairly upright stance. While it looks just as tall as the current model, Himalayan 450 has a scooped seat that will help improve balance and handling. With the raised handlebar and elevated front section, users should be able to ride effortlessly standing up on the foot pegs. Even shorter users should not have any major issues riding Himalayan 450.Himalayan 450 performance, specsWhile official engine specs are not known, it is likely to be a liquid cooled unit. Himalayan 450 can deliver around 35 bhp of max power and 40 Nm of peak torque. In comparison, the existing Himalayan has a 411cc engine that makes 24.3 bhp and 32 Nm.Himalayan 450 can be equipped with a 6-speed gearbox. It can have benefits such as enhanced cruising capabilities, improved fuel efficiency and higher top speed. Existing Himalayan has a 5-speed gearbox and offers fuel efficiency of 33.33 kmpl.Royal Enfield Himalayan 450Himalayan 450 has USD front forks, a first for a single-cylinder Royal Enfield bike. It can get 19-inch front and 17-inch rear wheels, the same setup used with current Himalayan. The bike has spoke wheels, with disk brakes at both ends. Dual-channel ABS is likely and switchable functionality can be available for rear wheel.With Royal Enfield’s focus on affordability, Himalayan 450 may miss out on premium features such as quick shifter, slipper and assist clutch and ride-by-wire tech. Tripper screen may not be required, as Himalayan 450’s digital instrument is likely to be equipped with navigation and Bluetooth connectivity. More

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    Hyundai Creta Electric Spied While Charging Battery Pack

    Hyundai Creta Electric spied at a charging station in HaryanaThe same electric powertrain on Kona EV is likely to feature on the Hyundai Electric Creta – 327V architecture, 39.2 kWh battery, 134 bhp and 395 NmConverting ICE vehicles to EV has worked wonders in India. It is cost-effective and negates design, development and manufacturing of new vehicles. Tata follows the same strategy for its entire EV lineup. Mahindra employs a similar strategy with its XUV400, and soon to be launched XUV800.It seems like Hyundai is getting ready to offer us a new EV based on a similar strategy. Spy shots of a Creta EV on test have emerged on the internet. Considering that Creta is the best-selling Hyundai car on offer in India, it makes logical sense for them to launch an EV version of Creta. When launched, Hyundai is likely to price it from around Rs 20 lakh (ex-sh).Hyundai Electric Creta Test MuleLatest test mule of the Hyundai Creta EV was spotted in Karnal, Haryana. Hat tip to automotive enthusiast Manpreet for the exclusive spy shots. In these images, we can see a Hyundai Creta EV test mule hooked up to an EV charging station.For starters, there is no camouflage. Also, Hyundai is likely to offer different front and rear bumpers to establish design differences from its ICE counterpart. Creta EV test mule donned outgoing ICE-car bumpers as of now, but the production-spec version will be highly inspired by the recently spied Creta facelift test mule.Hyundai Creta Electric spied at a charging station in HaryanaAs this is a make-shift test model, there is no proper charging port. Hence, the engineers connected the charging cable by opening the bonnet. The production model will come equipped with a charging port, likely to be in the front.Powertrains shared with outgoing Kona EV?Looking at the front charging port configuration, we can’t help but wonder whether Hyundai electric Creta shares its powertrain with Kona EV on offer in India. Hyundai’s E-GMP platform underpinning the Ioniq 5, Ioniq 6 and Kia EV6 gets a charging port around the rear-right fender.If Kona EV’s powertrain is likely, we’re looking at a 327V architecture, 39.2 kWh battery coupled with a 134 bhp and 395 Nm electric motor. Hyundai claims 452 km of range on a single charge with Kona EV. Hyundai Creta Electric could have very similar power output and range specs.Hyundai Creta EV battery pack can be seen protruding in the spy shotOn the inside, it will be feature loaded with tech and safety. We’re talking about a panoramic sunroof, powered driver’s seat, ventilated front seats, a large infotainment screen with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, digital driver’s display, 6 airbags, ADAS features among others. When launched, it will rival the likes of MG ZS EV, Mahindra XUV400 and Nexon EV Max. More

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    Hero Passion XPro Spied During TVC Shoot – Is It For India?

    Global offering Passion XPro spotted shooting commercial in IndiaHero Passion XPro on sale in Bangladesh is powered by a 109.15cc engine – Different from India-spec Passion’s 113.2cc engine
    A new Hero motorcycle has been spied in India, while it was out for a TVC shoot. It is a Hero Passion XPro. This motorcycle is on sale in a few global markets like Bangladesh. There, Hero offers two colours, Techno Blue and Sports Red. Base coat is grey and gets Blue or Red decals depending on its colour.
    The one spotted in India is in a Techno Blue shade. Hero offers Passion XPro the exact same front fascia of India-spec Passion XTEC. Even its ‘H’ shaped LED signature is identical too and lends a modern and techy appeal.
    Hero Passion XPro Spied
    Hero has offered extended tank shrouds. Design is sleek and slender, lending it an athletic appeal. At the rear, there is an all-new tail light which has no similarities with the Indian 110cc lineup. Hero’s proprietary XTEC suite with a fully digital instrument console and Bluetooth connectivity are notable elements.
    We can spot similar componentry between Hero’s 110cc lineup in India and recently spotted Hero Passion XPro. Except for its engine. Which is a 109.15cc unit, completely different from India-spec 113.2cc motor. The same 109.15cc engine was on offer on Passion XPro on sale in India, which didn’t make the BS6 P1 transition in 2020.
    Top – Passion XPro, Middle – Passion XPro Bangladesh-spec, Bottom – India-spec Passion Pro
    In the picture, we can see that the India-spec 113.2 cc engine (below) has a larger heat jacket and even looks more substantial and fuller than Passion XPro’s 109.15cc engine (above). The recently spotted Passion XPro in India is equipped with the older 109.15cc engine which didn’t make the BS6 P1 transition and not the BS6 P2-compliant 113.2cc engine.
    Hero Passion XPro spied in India during TVC shoot
    Also, Hero offers older engines in a few markets. For example, Hero still makes a 150cc Hunk and exports it with an identical engine we used to get close to a decade ago. It is likely that Hero MotoCorp is shooting an advert for Passion XPro in India to market it in another country. This is a common practice and many India-spec vehicles get their adverts shot elsewhere too.
    100cc Motorcycles rule the market
    Analysing the Indian budget commuter segment, most action lies in 100cc space. Hero’s own 110cc motorcycles don’t make as much buzz as their 100cc offerings. For example, Passion is exclusively (as of now) a brand for 110cc offerings in Hero’s lineup.
    In March 2023, Passion line sold just 4,640 units, while Splendor range accounted for 2,88,605 units (most of them 100cc) and 56,290 units of 100cc HF lineup. Even the 125cc Glamour line sold 8,512 units. As we recently saw with Passion Plus 100, Hero is actually diversifying its 100cc portfolio. Which is where all the action is currently lying. Even Honda recognised this and has launched Shine 100.
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