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    Bajaj Electric Rickshaw Spied Up Close – 120 KM Range, Launch Soon

    Bajaj RE EV electric rickshaw has been delayed due to multiple reasons, but launch may finally come through this yearBajaj Electric Rickshaw SpiedBajaj currently leads in the three-wheeler space, with a market share of more than 70%. Bajaj RE rickshaw is preferred, as it is considered to be superior in terms of performance, durability, mileage, low maintenance, resale value and range of features.Users buying Bajaj RE can choose from powertrain options of diesel, petrol, CNG and LPG. Prices for the petrol variant start at around Rs 2.05 lakh (ex-showroom, Mumbai). Upcoming Bajaj RE electric rickshaw will have a higher acquisition cost of around Rs 3.50 lakh. But users will probably gain in terms of reduced running cost.Bajaj RE electric rickshaw featuresBajaj RE electric rickshaw has largely the same appearance as that of its ICE counterpart. It is 8.6 ft. long, 4.2 ft. wide and 5.5 ft. tall. It has a ground clearance of 170 mm. Latest spy shots are credited to Nikhil Chadwal channel.Some key highlights include rounded front fascia, all-halogen lights, front plastic panelling, metal mudguard and R12 steel wheels. Space available is almost the same as that of Bajaj RE ICE rickshaws. The battery pack is likely to have taken much of the available cabin space.Bajaj Electric Rickshaw SpiedA number of differences can be seen in the driver section, where new plastic panelling has been used. The dashboard is now larger and comes with a lockable storage compartment. Instrument cluster is now fully digital, with two dials, placed on either side of the dashboard. Users can access critical information such as battery percentage, distance travelled and distance to empty.Bajaj Electric Rickshaw SpiedBajaj RE Electric range, specsBajaj RE electric rickshaw will have a range of 120 km on a full charge. Battery charging time is 4 hours, but could vary based on the type of charger used. It is not yet known if a fast charging option will be available for Bajaj RE electric rickshaw. It is certainly desirable, as it will increase the rickshaw’s revenue generating potential. With fast charging, rickshaw drivers can easily charge their vehicle during their breakfast or lunch time.Another option is to introduce a swappable battery system, which will work out even better than fast charging. But that will involve development of a large-scale network of battery swapping stations. Even if possible, such a system will take time to become a reality. One major hassle is that there’s currently not enough demand for electric rickshaws. Much of the sales still comprise ICE-powered rickshaws.Bajaj Electric Rickshaw SpiedFor electric rickshaws to go mainstream, special incentive programs need to be introduced. Subsidies are already available, but higher acquisition cost is still a major bottleneck. General distrust in a new system is another reason why the majority of buyers still prefer diesel, petrol and CNG rickshaws. Awareness about how electric rickshaws can increase income potential can probably help boost sales of electric three-wheelers.Source More

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    Hyundai Creta Electric Spied For First Time – 2025 Launch Plan

    A 100 kW electric motor and a battery big-enough for a 400+ km range should make for an interesting proposition for our marketHyundai Creta Electric SpiedHyundai India has kick-started its electric vehicle onslaught by launching the Ioniq 5 and showcasing Ioniq 6 at the Auto Expo last month. But the Korean automaker is also working on a more mainstream EV for our market. It was recently reported that Hyundai is working on an electric Creta crossover (codenamed SU2i EV) and an early prototype based on the conventional variant has been spotted for the first time in public.Automotive enthusiast Nitin Tyagi was charging his EV while the Hyundai Creta EV prototype stopped by for a recharge, and he promptly clicked these photos. There were a total of two test mules of the Hyundai Creta Electric. As you can see, the test mules do not have any camouflage but there is an easily noticeable protrusion from the floor pan which appears to be a structural member supporting the battery pack.2025 Hyundai Creta Electric SpiedConverting an in-production IC-engined car into a fully electric prototype is not a walk-in-the-park but Hyundai engineers and technicians seem to have done a pretty neat job. Save for the visible floor pan extension and different body panel colours, there is nothing on the exterior to suggest it is not a regular Creta.The production version is also expected to be based on the modified version of the current IC-engine platform. This approach will allow Hyundai to optimize cost since its almost fully localized. Tata has applied the same formula to Nexon EV, and Mahindra to XUV400.Hyundai Creta Electric SpiedThis will also help the automaker produce the vehicle with minimal modifications and investments to its existing assembly lines. However, in the long term, Hyundai India will localize its fully electric E-GMP architecture for both domestic and export markets.Hyundai Creta EV SpecsNot much is known about the specifications of the upcoming Hyundai Creta EV but we expect critical sub-systems to be derived from the Kona EV. That would mean a 100 kW (136 hp) PMSM electric motor with a peak torque output of 395 Nm of torque.The battery pack is also likely to be derived from the international sibling. With a capacity of 39.2 kWh, the lithium-ion polymer unit should be good for an ARAI-certified range of over 400 km. The Creta EV could be used with some significant aero optimizations over its IC-engined sibling to improve energy efficiency.Hyundai Creta Electric SpiedNew Hyundai Creta EV is expected to be ready for its global debut at the 2025 Auto Expo before going on sale later that year. Interestingly, the debut timeline is similar to its primary competitor Maruti YY8 electric SUV (codename). Expect the pricing to  be somewhere between Rs 20 to 30 lakh.Tata, Maruti, Mahindra and other OEMs will be aiming to position their volume-oriented electric crossovers in the same segment. That should make for an intense competition which will ultimately benefit the customers. We think Hyundai will easily attain its volume target of around 25,000 units per annum with its mid-premium EV offering. More

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    2024 KTM Duke 200, Duke 390 Spied Up Close – New Details

    New KTM Duke 200/250/390 pack in a new chassis and subframe, enhanced styling and updated swingarm and suspension2024 KTM Duke 200 Spied TestingKTM has been steadfast in introducing updates across the range at regular intervals. Be it new colour options, visual tweaks, performance boost or hi-tech features, KTM has always focused on staying one-step ahead in the game.KTM’s efforts have paid rich dividends, as is evident from its growing popularity across the globe. The company recently achieved a key production milestone of 1 million units at Bajaj plant.KTM 2023 Duke 200/250/390 updatesLater this year, KTM will be launching the updated versions of 200 Duke, 250 Duke and 390 Duke. Sightings of test mules reveal quite a few exciting updates. Duke range is among the primary volume generators for the company. So, it’s apparent that KTM will ensure the new Duke motorcycles meet expectations and have better capabilities than rivals.New 2023 KTM Duke gets a refreshed headlight and tail light. Fuel tank appears to be a larger unit and shoulder fairing seems to be a few centimetres longer than that of the current model. The grooves on the fairing appear to be deeper, which could possibly help improve the bike’s aerodynamics. Overall, the bike looks sharper and sportier in comparison to the current model. 2023 KTM Duke bikes could also get new colour options. Take a look at the detailed spy video of new gen KTM Duke shared by The Fat Biker.[embedded content][embedded content]Users can expect improved ride dynamics, as 2023 KTM Duke motorcycles utilize a new chassis and subframe. Exact details are not known, but past updates have focused on improving balance and handling. Changes introduced in the past have also resulted in a lightweight profile for the bike. A similar approach is likely for 2023 KTM Duke as well.In terms of core hardware, one of the key updates is offset monoshock rear suspension and new swingarm geometry. An offset rear monoshock can have various advantages, depending on the design. In general, it helps reduce clutter, improves space utilization and allows easy access for repairs and maintenance.KTM 2023 Duke 200/250/390 performanceNew 20223 KTM Duke motorcycles will be getting upgraded engines. Users can expect improved performance and possibly some fuel savings as well. In India, the engines will be greener with OBD-2 compliance. New 2023 KTM 390 Duke is expected to get a higher displacement 399cc motor. In its current form, 390 Duke is powered by a 373.2 cc motor that makes 43 hp of max power and 37 Nm of peak torque. It is mated to a 6-speed gearbox.Along with cosmetic touch-ups and hardware upgrades, 2023 KTM Duke bikes could get a range of new tech features. There could be a new digital instrument console or additional features could be introduced. Rider aids could be expanded and there could be new functions on the KTM MY RIDE connectivity platform. 2023 KTM Duke bikes are expected to be launched sometime in mid-2023. As they pack in a comprehensive range of updates, pricing will be on the higher side. More

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    RE Himalayan 450 Spied In Ladakh – Snow Chain On Tyre

    USD forks on new Himalayan 450 are likely to offer a lot more front-end feel and increase agility considerablyRE Himalayan 450 Spied In LadakhRoyal Enfield has been testing its 450cc platform for quite some months now. Given the company’s extensive testing patterns, it is likely that the launch is not scheduled for any time soon. There are two motorcycles based on this new 450cc platform. One is Himalayan 450 and the other is likely to be called Scram 450.With the ADV trend catching up, Royal Enfield is set to offer a new product, more capable than its current ADV, Himalayan 411. The main objectives for the new Himalayan 450 will definitely be high-speed touring, good off-road prowess and optimum traction in varied road conditions. New spy shots of Himalayan 450 show the ADV being tested in Ladakh. This way, Royal Enfield can test a vehicle’s performance in high altitude conditions and in snowy and icy terrains.Himalayan 450 Spied In LadakhThis is the first time Royal Enfield Himalayan 450 has been testing in snow. Almost all car and bike manufacturers in India send their upcoming vehicles to test in the difficult terrain of Ladakh. The temperatures there are extreme, and so are the road (or no road) conditions. This makes Ladakh the best geographical location to test high-altitude response of a vehicle.Both RE Himalayan 450 test mules were spotted with snow chains, as the terrain they were traversing, got trickier. The upcoming Himalayan 450 will build on the strengths of outgoing Himalayan 411. This means an upright riding stance and a fairly relaxed rider’s triangle, center-set footpegs, and high-set handlebars facilitating standing and gripping the motorcycle between one’s thighs.High altitude & snow testing of the upcoming @royalenfield Himalayan 450 starts. Spied between Khardung la and Nubra valley by one of my trusted local drivers.More details soon! @91Trucks #Himalayan450 pic.twitter.com/uP47dYycnE— Bunny Punia (@BunnyPunia) February 14, 2023There are new elements like LED turn indicators, all-terrain tyres and a slightly stubbier and up-swept exhaust end can. The new design will still be purposeful with provision to hold panniers and jerry cans. RE Himalayan 450 will feature USD front forks and a rear mono-shock with decent suspension travel.Wire-spoke wheels are likely to be retained from current Himalayan 411 – these are 19” front and 17” rear. The front beak and a windscreen are part of its package. Round headlights will house LEDs this time, instead of halogen bulbs found on current models.Specs & RivalsThe new platform is rumored to displace around 450cc while developing around 35 bhp of power and around 40 Nm of torque. A 6-speed transmission is finally making its way into Royal Enfield’s single-cylinder lineup. A circular fully-digital speedometer is placed vertically and is expected to get Bluetooth functionality with turn-by-turn navigation. No more jugaad tripper screens with Himalayan.There will be a price increment with the new Himalayan 450 as opposed to the outgoing model. This price hike is likely to put it against rivals like KTM 390 Adventure and BMW G 310 GS. But as we all know, the arch-rival for Himalayan 450 pound-to-pound, is Hero’s upcoming Xpulse with almost double the engine as its 200cc model.Source More

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    Upcoming MG Electric Small Car Spied In Baroda – LED Lights

    Entry-level electric PV segment is gaining traction with cars like Tata Tiago EV, Citroen C3 electric and upcoming Tata Punch EVNew MG Electric Car For IndiaWith huge unlocked potential in entry-level EV space, OEMs are looking to make early gains. A relevant example is MG Motor that is working on its 2-door mini electric car MG Air. It has been spotted on road tests multiple times, most recently near Baroda. Latest spy shots are credited to Digvijay Singh.At just 2,900 mm long, MG Air will not have any direct rival. Only possibility is Tata Nano electric, but its launch is not 100% sure. Assuming MG Air is affordably priced, it can go up against the likes of Tiago EV and Citroen eC3. MG Motor is likely to be aiming for a sub-10 lakh rupees price point for MG Air EV.MG Air EV featuresMG Air EV has a compact, tall boy design with large doors and windows. Front and rear windscreen are also sizeable, especially in proportion to the car’s compact dimensions. Users can expect roomy interiors and scenic views of the outside world. MG Air EV has a boxy profile with a largely non-existent bonnet. Front section features a prominent bumper, large headlamps and top-mounted LED strip.Side profile has flat panelling and comes with large window panes for rear passengers. Based on the variant, MG Air EV can have options of both steel wheels and alloy wheels. At rear, the profile is largely a repeat of what we see at the front. There’s a full-width light bar and trapezoidal tail lamps.[embedded content][embedded content]Even though affordability is a key focus area in entry-level EV space, MG Motor will make sure that Air EV gets a comprehensive range of features. It could get a large touchscreen infotainment system, along with a wide range of connectivity features.MG Air EV range, specsMG Air EV will be based on MG’s latest Global Small Electric Vehicles (GSEV) platform. It is capable of supporting multiple body styles. To ensure it justifies its name, MG Air EV will have a lightweight body. Battery pack is also expected to be a compact unit of around 20kWh to 25kWh capacity. Max power output could be around 40 hp. Expect a real-world range of approximately 150 km. Both standard and fast charging options will be available.MG Air EV is being developed with Indian weather and driving conditions in mind. Hot and humid environments are of special concern, which necessitate a robust battery thermal management system and air conditioning.Earlier, it was revealed that MG Air EV production is planned to commence from March 2023. Initial production target has been set at 36,000 units per annum. While MG Air EV has cute, easy-going vibes, it remains to be seen the level of response it generates. It can surely work for younger audiences looking for a showstopper ride that’s also environment-friendly. More

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    2023 Royal Enfield Himalayan 450 Spied – 2 Test Mules, New Details

    With improved performance numbers and new features, Himalayan 450 will be a better match against rivals like BMW G310GS, KTM 390 ADV and upcoming Hero Xpulse 3002023 Royal Enfield Himalayan 450Spied on road tests, Himalayan 450 is expected to debut at the EICMA 2023 that will be held in November this year. Launch in India is likely to take place next year. With the latest iteration of Himalayan, the focus is on overcoming limitations associated with the smaller capacity Himalayan 411. Furthermore, new features such as USD front forks will ensure tangible improvements in ride dynamics.Two test mules of the new 2023 Royal Enfield Himalayan 450 have now been spied. Thanks to these, we now have a closer look at the upcoming Himalayan 450. As compared to the current model, Himalayan 450 comes across as an evolved machine. It has a contemporary design with a largely rounded appearance that’s more pleasing to the eyes. Some of the retro flavour has been retained, as evident in features such as round headlamp, rear view mirrors and instrument dial.2023 Royal Enfield Himalayan 450 New Spy ShotsDimensionally, Himalayan 450 will be quite close in comparison to current Himalayan. Things like seat height are expected to be around 800 mm, which is kind of a sweet spot in terms of achieving optimal balance and handling. Current Himalayan is 2,190 mm long, 840 mm wide and has ground clearance of 220 mm.Riding comfort seems just right, made possible with centrally mounted footpegs and ergonomically placed handlebar. Scooped-up rider seat should be able to provide adequate lumbar support. Just like other Royal Enfield bikes, customization options will be available for Himalayan 450. Apart from USD forks, other updates could include ride modes, GPS navigation, assist and slipper clutch and ride-by-wire system.2023 Royal Enfield Himalayan 450 SpiedIt will get a fully digital instrument cluster, a first for RE. While Himalayan 450 will be a better equipped machine, Royal Enfield will ensure that it continues to offer the price advantage. Competitive pricing has always been an USP for the company and it will be available with Himalayan 450.2023 Royal Enfield Himalayan 450 SpiedAs compared to current Himalayan that retails at a starting price of around Rs 2.2 lakh, Himalayan 450 is expected to be priced in the range of Rs 2.60 lakh to Rs 2.70 lakh. At this price point, it will work out cheaper than most other rivals including 390 Adventure that starts at Rs 3.04 lakh. All prices Ex-sh.Himalayan 450 performance, specsWhile current Himalayan is among the popular choices in its segment, enthusiasts have often found its 24.3 bhp and 32 Nm output a bit lacking at times. It’s especially true when negotiating steep inclines combined with loose gravel or muddy conditions. Himalayan 450 can do much better, as it is expected to generate around 30 bhp and 40 Nm.2023 Royal Enfield Himalayan 450 SpiedIt may not be possible for Himalayan 450 to match each and every feature available with rivals. For example, KTM 390 Adventure comes with features such as state-of-the-art 5-inch full colour TFT display, WP APEX suspension, offroad mode, offroad ABS, cornering ABS and traction control system. However, Himalayan 450 will definitely narrow the performance gap. Combined with competitive pricing, Himalayan 450 could emerge as another bestseller for Royal Enfield. More

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    2023 Yamaha R15, FZX, MT15 Launch Soon – First Photos Leak

    The first units of 2023 Yamaha R15, MT 15 and FZ-X have arrived at select dealerships and a launch is likely to happen on Feb 132023 Yamaha R15, MT15, FZ-X Launch SoonYamaha banks on its premium 2W range like no other. Today, Yamaha is probably the only 2W manufacturer with significant volumes, without offering budget commuters or scooters. The company’s premium motorcycle range includes YZF-R15, MT-15 and FZ-X.Yamaha is keen on reviving some of its legacy brands like RX into India, and is actively considering ways to introduce an ADV within the 125-155cc segment as well. Ahead of all that, Yamaha is now making its premium motorcycle range updated for MY2023. In that regard, 2023 Yamaha R15, MT15 and FZ-X are getting new Editions. Let’s take a look.2023 Yamaha R15, MT15Recently in Indonesia, we saw Yamaha launching a new Aggressive Grey variant for R15. It was a stunning combo with black USD forks, Grey base paint and trickles of Neon on fairing. Alloys were completely Neon too. This is not the same Edition Yamaha is launching in India. Spy shots reveal golden USD forks like on every other R15.The base paint is still Grey, similar to Aggressive Grey launched in Indonesia with little splashes of Yellow. Instead of matching alloy wheel colour with this Yellow, Yamaha is offering a golden finish. Something similar is offered with the R15M World GP 60th Edition. There is a gloss black element on the front fairing above the headlight, similar to R15M Metallic Grey.2023 Yamaha R15 Arrives At DealerMY2023 new edition MT 15, however, gets a gloss black shade. It resembles the Metallic Black colour Yamaha offers. But the new edition gets Red alloys found on the Ice Fluo – Vermillion variant. It isn’t as flashy as the Cyan-painted wheels on the Cyan Storm variant, though. A combination of Metallic Black and Fluorescent Red wheels was not offered before by Yamaha.2023 Yamaha MT15 Arrives At DealerFZ-X is getting a new edition for MY2023 as well. This new model has also reached a few dealerships ahead of launch and has been papped alongside MY2023 R15 and MT 15. It gets a new Blue shade and doesn’t resemble Yamaha FZ-X’s Metallic Blue option. Instead, it resembles the Racing Blue shade offered with the MT 15 and R15.New FZ-X Gets Dual-Channel ABSApart from this new colour, new MY2023 FZ-X will also feature dual-channel ABS, something which was missing in outgoing model. Dual-channel ABS is likely to be offered as standard and is not exclusive to this new edition. That said, Yamaha might limit dual-channel ABS just for this new edition and pit it as top-spec trim for FZ-X.2023 Yamaha FZ-X Arrives At DealerMechanically, there won’t be any changes on R15 and MT-15. Only FZ-X will get an upgrade in braking hardware in the form of dual-channel ABS. Both R15 and MT 15 will continue to offer 18.4 PS of power and 14.2 Nm of torque from its 155cc liquid-cooled VVA engine, mated to a 6-speed transmission. FZ-X will continue to offer 12.4 PS of power and 13.3 Nm of torque with a 5-speed gearbox. More

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    New Aprilia 300cc Sports Bike Spied In India – RC 390, Apache 310 Rival

    A single-cylinder engine displacing between 300 to 400 cc and power figures to match its rivals are expected from new Aprilia sports bikeNew Aprilia 300cc-400cc sports bike for India spied. Images – EVO IndiaThe premium end of 300cc sports bike segment is currently occupied by KTM RC 390, TVS Apache RR 310, BMW G 310 RR and Honda CBR300R. Kawasaki Ninja 300 comes close with its Rs. 3.4 lakh price tag. Keeway has spotted an opportunity here and recently launched K 300 R. However, Italians have been surprisingly absent from this segment.Sure, we had the Benelli 302 R with its massive body and dual disc brake setup at the front which looked like a proper superbike. But it was offset by its heft and after that, no Italians have ever stepped into this segment. Until now. There is a new kid on the block who is under testing to have a piece of this pie. It is a new Aprilia sports bike spotted testing in Baramati.New Aprilia Sports BikeThe new motorcycle is wrapped to the gills with camouflage and has testing equipment strapped on its back monitoring various parameters. Design language is mostly in line with what this Italian marque offers under its RS lineup. In effect, it looks like a toned-down version of an RS 660, which is not a bad thing in any way.Even though it was clad with camouflage, the front fascia does resemble that of an RS 660. It gets a twin headlight setup with a pilot lamp in the centre. These are likely to be LEDs as every other bike in this segment provides LEDs. Taillights and blinkers are likely to be LED too.New Aprilia 300cc-400cc sports bike for India spiedSeating posture looks fairly committed. There is a decent amount of lean to reach its handlebars and rider footpegs are rear-set. This gives a lot of leverage for the rider to tip the motorcycle into a corner. The front wind deflector looks to be a little lower in angle and its chunky fuel tank seems to provide enough grip for the rider.Componentry is likely to change until it reaches the series production phase. That said, this test mule offers USD forks at front and a mono-shock unit at the rear. Swingarm looks like it is an aluminium unit and not a box-section unit. Disc brakes at front are skinny, like the ones found on current gen KTM RC 390.Engine & PricingEngine specs are not yet known. It can be speculated that it would displace between 300cc to 400cc with a single-cylinder architecture and make around 35 to 40 bhp of power and 35 Nm of torque. Features like ride-by-wire, liquid cooling, slip and assist clutch, quick shifter (at least for upshifting), dual channel ABS, riding modes and a modern TFT display for instrumentation can be offered.New Aprilia 300cc-400cc sports bike for India spiedAprilia is not very popular in India where motorcycles are concerned, despite a strong presence globally. We get the RS and Tuono lineup in both middleweight and liter class segments. When Japanese offerings in middleweight and liter classes are brought into picture, Aprilia’s offerings come off as expensive.If only Aprilia had launched RS 150 and Tuono 150 in India and established a brand identity in the affordable sporty motorcycle segment, it could have been a lot easier to launch and market this upcoming motorcycle. That said, pricing can go to Rs. 3.5 lakh (ex-sh).Source More