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      in Electric Cars

      Kia EV9 Electric SUV First Real World Photos – New Colours Spied

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      With its massive size and muscular body panelling, Kia EV9 has a dominating street presenceNew Kia EV9 Electric SUVKia had showcased the EV9 concept at 2023 Auto Expo, whereas the production version had debuted on March 15. Based on the E-GMP platform that also underpins EV6, Kia EV9 will be the company’s new flagship SUV. It will pack in a comprehensive range of features and rival upcoming electric SUVs from Mercedes-Benz and BMW.EV9 is part of Kia’s ‘Plan S’, wherein a target has been set to introduce 13 born-electric cars over the next four years. EV9 will be one of the biggest Kia models, with dimensions similar to that of US-spec Telluride SUV. It will also be the most expensive Kia car sold globally. Ahead of its launch, Kia EV9 has been spotted undisguised inside a parking lot.New Kia EV9 Electric SUVKia EV9 features new gen styling – Likely to be seen in all Kia electric cars in the futureMuch of the features seen with the concept version have been retained in the production model. However, there are some changes such as smoothed edges and creases and 21-inch wheels replacing the 23-inch units seen with the concept model. Apart from these, there are no other major changes between the concept and the production version.EV9 will have compelling colour choices in both glossy and matte finish. Options include Snow White Pearl (SWP), Panthera Metal (P2M), Aurora Black Pearl (ABP), Flare Red (C7R), Pebble Gray (DFG), Ivory Silver (ISG), Ocean Blue (OBG) and Iceberg Green (IEG). Matte colour options include Ocean Blue (Matte), Ivory Silver (Matte), Iceberg Green (Matte) and Panthera Metal (Matte).New Kia EV9 Electric SUVEV9 utilizes a futuristic design philosophy with angled panels all across. It seems familiar to the panelling used on tanks and stealth aircrafts. Other notable aspects include the star constellation-inspired LED lights at front and rear, flat closed-off grille and Kia’s signature tiger nose effect on the skid plate. Viewed from the side, EV9 could be mistaken for an armoured car. Some key highlights include quirky alloy wheels, flared wheel arches, thick body cladding, chunky door panels, blacked-out pillars, smart door handles and tinted windows.New Kia EV9 Electric SUV Smart KeyInside, Kia EV9 has a clutter-free dashboard layout and cockpit area. Much of the controls are accessible via the massive integrated digital instrument cluster and infotainment system. Interiors are designed for roominess and optimal user comfort. Both 6-seat and 7-seat versions are expected to be available.EV9 performance, range – Best in class?Kia has not revealed any significant details about EV9. However, it is known that EV9 will have a range of 543 km. Based on its size and max range, battery capacity could be around 100kWh. It is expected that EV9 will have fast charging, allowing users to load up around 100 km in approximately 6 minutes. Based on the E-GMP platform, EV6 and Hyundai Ioniq 5 have similar capabilities. Kia EV9 is expected to get option of both rear-wheel and 4-wheel drive.EV9 is unlikely to make it to India anytime soon. However, Kia has plans to launch multiple new mass-market EVs, specially designed for India. These will go up against upcoming born electric SUVs from Mahindra and Tata Motors. More

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      in Bike

      Royal Enfield Scram 650cc Spied In Production Ready Guise

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      Royal Enfield Scram 650 is part of the company’s plans to expand its 650cc portfolio that currently has Super Meteor 650, Interceptor 650 and Continental GTRoyal Enfield Scram 650cc SpiedWith the 350cc segment comfortably in its bag, Royal Enfield is eying new growth opportunities by expanding its 650cc portfolio. RE is also working on its 450cc motorcycles, which will be the future of its existing 410cc platform. With higher capacity bikes, Royal Enfield will also be able to target overseas markets and take on biggies like Honda, Yamaha, Kawasaki, etc.In 650cc segment, Royal Enfield has already launched Super Meteor 650 earlier this year. Last week, they launched updated INT 650 and GT 650. Next up in the 650 range is likely to be 650cc classic roadster, 650cc Himalayan and a 650cc bobber, likely to be called Shotgun 650. A 650cc scrambler has also been spotted on road test. Latest spy shots are credited to Bullet Guru.Royal Enfield Scram 650cc SpiedRoyal Enfield Scram 650 Production Ready Spy ShotsTalking a bit about the bike’s exterior profile, the signature retro styling is evident in the round headlamp, indicators and rearview mirrors, circular instrument pod, classic fuel tank design and flat-type single piece saddle. Royal Enfield scrambler 650 has a lean build, which looks familiar to Hunter 350. Apart from the triangular side panels, everything else is purely bare bones.Riding ergonomics are pretty comfortable with centrally mounted foot pegs and raised handlebar. The bike’s saddle looks big enough to comfortably accommodate a pillion even on longer rides. Scrambler 650 will be mostly for street fun, but it seems capable of handling some mild off-roads as well. It has 17-inch wire-spoke wheels, linked to USD front forks and spring-loaded dual rear suspension.Royal Enfield Scram 650cc SpiedTech features could include Tripper navigation, which can be offered as an optional feature. Earlier this year, Royal Enfield had followed a similar approach for Himalayan and Meteor 350.Powering Royal Enfield 650 scrambler will be the 648cc parallel-twin motor that churns out 47 bhp of max power and 52 Nm of peak torque. It is mated to a 6-speed gearbox. While engine output will be largely the same as 650 twins, Scram 650 will have a higher power-to-weight ratio. That’s because the bike will be lighter with the single piece exhaust.Royal Enfield Scram 650 Exhaust NoteWhile captured among the cacophony of other noises on the road, Scram 650’s exhaust note was still able to create a pleasing aural experience. The signature parallel-twin character is clearly evident and the soft engine hum seems to complement the bike’s overall vocals. While the exhaust note is quite captivating, it also carries with it the hints of a potent and powerful heart that beats within.[embedded content][embedded content]Distinctive character of the bike’s exhaust note could be linked to its 2-into-1 emission pipe. In comparison, the 650 twins and recently unveiled Super Meteor 650 are equipped with dual exhausts. One of the many things loved about Royal Enfield bikes is their exhaust notes. In that context, the company has done a great job in the upcoming Scrambler 650. Enthusiasts will be surely looking to try this one. Expect Royal Enfield Scram 650 to be priced in the Rs 3.5 lakh range, ex-sh.Source More

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      in Electric Cars

      MG Comet EV Launch in April 2023 – Entry Point to Small Electric Cars

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      MG Comet EV: A game-changer in electric cars, the age of small EVs begins with its April 2023 launch2023 MG Comet Electric Car
      MG is all set to launch Comet EV, a compact electric vehicle in India in April 2023. Prices and battery details too will be announced then. This rebadged version of the Wuling Air from China will be manufactured at MG’s plant in India. Available in five colours, you can pick from White, Pink, Yellow, Blue, and Green.
      MG Comet EV: A look at its range and charging capabilities
      Exterior design of the MG Comet EV is modern and sleek. It has split headlamps. The remaining light set up includes LED DRLs, turn indicators, and a narrow LED light beam positioned in the front chrome bar. The bar continues onto both OVRMs. Rear lights match the front design theme, with a stop lamp beam that runs across the rear and a 2-row split tail lamp. Charging port is located beneath the front MG branding.
      2023 MG Comet Electric Car
      Wuling Air EV battery choices are expected on the Comet. The smaller is a 17.3kWh unit. The bigger, a 26.7kWh unit. Between the two, the drive range extends from 200kms to 300kms. MG Comet EV is expected to have a 31 KW (41 PS) or 50 kW (68 PS) motor. The smaller 18kWh unit would be most price competitive for India but there’s no clarity on model/s going to be launched.
      Comet EV battery is rumoured to be sourced from Tata Autocomp and will use LFP cells. Comet will be the smallest vehicle in MG’s lineup in India, making it a cost-effective entry point for customers to step into the world of EVs.
      2023 MG Comet Electric Car
      Both SWB and LWB variants of  Wuling Air are 2-door models, LWB being a 4-seater. MG Comet EV is based on GSEV (Global Small Electric Vehicle) platform developed in a joint venture between SAIC-GM-Wuling. Other features are likely to include automatic climate control, dual 10.2” horizontal screens, a 2-spoke steering wheel, electronic parking brake, and voice command.
      Can the MG Comet EV keep up with the demands of daily driving?
      With its range, charging capabilities, design, and features, MG Comet EV is a smart choice for electric car enthusiasts. It’s sheer smallness makes it practical and an efficient electric car for city driving. Welcome to the world of small electric cars.
      Compact smart cars can provide a practical solution to urban mobility challenges in India by reducing travel time and improving commute experience. Their small size and advanced technology could be effective in navigating through crowded city streets and reducing congestion. Most importantly, they present an excellent case for affordable electric cars.
      Comet will be the 2nd EV from MG. MG ZS EV is already on sale in India, priced from Rs 23.38 lakh, ex-sh. Prices of MG Comet electric car are expected to start from under Rs 10 lakh, making it a rival to Tata Tiago EV. More

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      in Bike

      2023 Honda CB350 Cafe Racer Showcased To Dealers – New Launch Soon

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      After CB350 and CB350 RS, Honda will add 3rd motorcycle in their 350cc range next month2023 Honda CB350 Cafe RacerHonda launched the CB350 back in Sep 2020. In the initial months, it had registered good response from bike enthusiasts. Later in Feb 2021, Honda launched a scrambler version based on the CB350, called CB350 RS. Despite two motorcycles on offer in the 350cc range, Honda has not come anywhere close to sales numbers registered by Royal Enfield.In Jan 2023, Royal Enfield registered sales of over 26k units for their Classic 350. While sales of Honda CB350 range was 1,086 units. To bring a boost to their sales in the 350cc range, Honda is getting ready to launch a new motorcycle next month.Honda CB350 Cafe RacerTo provide more options to customers in the 350cc segment, Honda will soon launch a new cafe racer motorcycle based on CB350. Honda has chosen to challenge Royal Enfield and this new motorcycle is expected to improve its prospects in this space.Likely to be called Honda CB350 Cafe Racer, the motorcycle has been showcased to dealers. Launch is expected next month. It will come with Cafe Racer style single seat, revised headlamp cowl, black alloys, black engine with chrome Honda logo, etc.2023 Honda CB350 Cafe RacerSpeaking of the new Honda CB350 Cafe Racer, the motorcycle sports a neo-retro look. Some key features include round headlamp, sculpted fuel tank, single piece seat, chrome finish exhaust, alloy wheels, an all-LED setup and semi-digital instrument cluster. It also has a smartphone charging USB port.2023 Honda CB350 Cafe RacerCB350 Cafe Racer powertrainHonda’s 350 cc Cafe Racer will use the same engine as that of CB350. It is rated to deliver 21.07 ps @ 5500 rpm and 30 Nm @ 3000 rpm. It is mated to a 5-speed gearbox. The motorcycle will also be sharing a number of other components with CB350. This will help Honda to reduce costs and improve production efficiency.Just like CB350, its cafe racer version could be equipped with assist and slipper clutch, dual channel ABS, Honda Selectable Torque Control (HSTC), and Honda Smartphone Voice Control system (HSVCS).2023 Honda CB350 Cafe RacerThe instrument console could also be the same, which displays a range of information such as average mileage, real time mileage, gear position indicator, distance to empty, and battery voltage. Expect prices to be in the Rs 2.2 lakh to Rs 2.3 lakh range, ex-sh. More details to be revealed at the launch event next month. More

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      in Bike

      New Ather Electric Scooter Spied – May Get Under Rs 1 L Price

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      With a steel tubular frame, smaller battery and a less powerful motor, Ather’s new affordable scooter might be priced under Rs. 1 lakhNew Ather Electric Scooter SpiedIn the first phase of EV revolution we saw manufacturers launching loaded, feature rich variants. In the next phase, we are seeing introduction of more affordable variants. Lower pricing is achieved via installing a smaller battery pack, fewer features, etc.Ola has successfully entered step 2 with S1 Air. As announced recently, Ola is offering S1 Air with 2 kWh, 3 kWh and even 4 kWh battery options. Prices range between Rs. 84,999 and 1,09,999 (ex-sh). Ola’s rival, Ather is getting to launch a more affordable version of their electric scooter.Ather’s New Affordable ScooterA new test mule of Ather electric scooter has been spied in BTM Layout, Bangalore. Hat tip to automotive enthusiast Thushar for sharing the exclusive spy shot. It is likely to be of the upcoming entry variant of Ather electric scooter. The new test mule is starkly identical to existing Ather 450.Battery size is likely to go down as opposed to the 3.7 kWh unit on existing 450X Gen 3. With Gen 3, Ather promises a 146 km range and a 105 km true range. Ather’s new affordable scooter might promise slightly lesser range, albeit with a less powerful motor. Expect the 7” touchscreen with Google integration will be retained.New Ather Electric Scooter SpiedLast month, Ather launched Gen 3 of their electric scooters. Under this, the 450 Plus is priced at Rs 1.9 lakh while the Ather 450X is priced at Rs 2.13 lakh. These are ex-sh prices excluding FAME-II subsidy of Rs 55,000. With the subsidy, prices come down to Rs 1.35 lakh and Rs 1.58 lakh, ex-sh. The upcoming new Ather electric scooter is likely to get a price tag of under Rs 1 lakh, ex-sh, inclusive of subsidy.Phase II Of Battery Safety NormsPhase II of the new battery norms set by MoRTH will come into effect from April 2023. The enforcement is due to the high number of EV fire incidents reported, likely due to improperly designed batteries. Come April 2023, EV manufacturers have to meet Amendment-3 proposed to AIS 156 and AIS 038 Rev.2 across L, M and N categories.Amendment-3 of the said AIS, as issued by MoRTH, was in two phases. Phase I was in effect from 1st December 2022 and Phase II is set to take effect from 31st March 2023. Electric scooters fall into L category and should meet the new battery norms set forth by a panel under Amendment-3.Ather Electric Scooter Prices – Feb 2023Since the new changes to battery tech will add cost, Ather might strike out some elements on this upcoming budget scooter. Main among those will be 450X’s aluminium space frame. New chassis features a tubular frame that is more economical to fabricate.The chassis has seamless tubes of steel bent and welded to form a simple tubular frame. Battery placement is still in the floorboard. With FAME II subsidies expiring from March 31st 2024, EV manufacturers have to work towards expanding their scale of manufacturing to bring prices down. More

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      in Electric Cars

      Jimny Styled Mini Electric SUV Spied Testing – Launch As MG?

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      This new Mini eSUV from China draws inspiration from Maruti Jimny and Land Rover DefenderJimny Styled Mini Electric SUV SpiedBaojun brand is a subsidiary of SAIC-GM-Wuling JV, just like MG. They offer a lot of cars under these brands; including the newly launched Hector and Hector Plus. Same cars are shared between brands of GM, SAIC and Wuling. For example, Baojun 530 is rebranded as Wuling Almaz, Chevrolet Captiva and MG Hector.Last year Baojun showcased a new mini electric SUV concept. We are talking about KiWi mini crossover. It is a three-door electric mini SUV with incredibly cute looks. This small EV SUV has now started testing. First spy shots has leaked online.New Mini Electric SUV – Jimny InspiredNew KiWi EV is smaller than the Maruti Jimny. It retains much of its design attributes from concept. Speaking of design, LED headlights and tail lights are retained from concept car. Overall proportions and design details on the outside are retained as well.Sure, the test mule is rolling on steel wheels, but top-spec models will get alloys. If the Maruti Jimny is a miniature Mercedes-Benz G-Class, KiWi EV new crossover is a miniature Land Rover Defender 90, except for its iconic round headlight elements.Jimny Styled Mini Electric SUV SpiedEven on the inside, the twin horizontal display and dashboard layout remain true to its concept. This new mini EV would look like a fitting proposition to rival Jimny, even without a 5-door layout.It is smaller and is likely to be more city-friendly too. Internally codenamed E260S, It is not yet named. But it will bear KiWi branding instead of Baojun’s like we saw on concept vehicle. If launched in India, it will come under the MG brand.India Launch?With its retro-futuristic design and its smaller dimensions, it is likely to take the Chinese market by storm. Specifications are not yet known including battery size and range. There will be pooled components from similar Kei cars including Chinese highest-seller Wuling Hongguang Mini EV. In effect, this vehicle is the world’s first ‘electric Kei car UV’.Jimny Styled Mini Electric SUV SpiedLaunch is likely to happen in China in the first half of 2023. After that, it will be marketed by Wuling in other ASEAN markets like Indonesia. There is no official word regarding India launch under the MG brand. But we hope that it does. MG Motor India is getting ready to launch AIR EV later this year. Air EV is sold under the Wuling brand in China. It is one of the best selling electric cars in China today. More

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      in Electric Cars

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

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      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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      in Electric Cars

      Hyundai Creta Electric Spied For First Time – 2025 Launch Plan

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      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