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    2022 Nissan Leaf Electric Car Spied Testing In Delhi NCR

    There has been no official word from Nissan on launch of the Leaf electric in India yetNissan Leaf Electric SpiedWith growing impetus for electric vehicles (EVs) in India, many automakers are vying to make a mark in the sustainable mobility space. Nissan is one such brand that has been contemplating bringing an EV to India for a very long time. However, the company hasn’t been able to put its plans up and running.Recently, a fully undisguised prototype of Nissan Leaf was spotted testing on streets of Delhi NCR. Latest spy image of this test mule is credited to automotive enthusiast Swarup Mishra in which the fully-electric hatchback is seen wearing a green registration plate.Nissan Leaf spied in IndiaThe test mule is seen wrapped in a red paint scheme with only its rear end visible. That said, it isn’t the first time that the electric hatchback has been spied testing in India. Back in 2019, Leaf was spied on Indian roads on multiple occasions which had sparked rumours of its launch in the country.Earlier in November last year, Nissan CEO, Makoto Uchida, in an interaction with a leading newspaper confirmed that the company is looking to launch an EV in India. However, he declined to comment on specific details of this upcoming product or an expected launch timeline. We believe that the upcoming EV from Nissan is most likely to be Leaf since it has already been put to test on Indian roads in a number of instances.Nissan Leaf Electric SpiedNissan Leaf is one of the most popular electric cars in the world. By Feb 2022, global sales of Nissan Leaf crossed the 5.22 lakh mark. It has been on sale since 2010 in over fifty overseas markets of Europe, Asia and Latin America and even received a generation upgrade in 2017.In India, Nissan could bring the electric hatchback as a fully imported model via CBU route from Japan, at least initially till the brand is able to create a sizable consumer base. If and when launched, it could be priced around the Rs 40 lakh mark and will serve as an affordable alternative to MINI Cooper Electric and the upcoming Volvo XC40 Recharge.Expected Features & Powertrain SpecsBeing a CBU product, Leaf is expected to be very well loaded. It is expected to include features like ProPilot single-lane autonomous driving along with a semi-autonomous driving system and e-Pedal mode for one-pedal driving. It is also likely to be equipped with an Advanced Driver Assistance System (ADAS) which will offer a range of safety features like lane departure warning, blind-spot warning and emergency braking system to name a few.Powering Leaf will be an EM57 electric motor that derives its energy from a 40 kWh Li-ion battery pack. This powertrain returns an output of 146 bhp and 320 Nm of peak torque. It claims an estimated range of 240km on a single charge as per NEDC. Nissan offers two types of AC chargers with Leaf- a 3kW unit and a 6kW unit. The former takes 16 hours for the battery to rejuvenate while the latter makes it in 8 hours. More

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    Upcoming Royal Enfield Hunter 350cc – Two New Test Mules Spied

    Royal Enfield is expected to take the covers off from the upcoming Hunter 350 later this year – It will be priced lower than Meteor and Classic 350New Royal Enfield Hunter 350ccRoyal Enfield has lined up multiple new products slated for market launches in the coming few months. The company recently launched its first scrambler motorcycle called Scram 411 which is based on Himalayan. One of the most highly anticipated models is Hunter 350.It is based on the same J series platform as Meteor and new-gen Classic and the motorcycle has been spotted testing on numerous occasions in the past. We have got hold of another set of spy shots which show clearer details of the upcoming roadster.Upcoming Royal Enfield Hunter 350ccBy the looks of it, the motorcycle looks almost production-ready with finished body panels. Like most Royal Enfield models, Hunter gets a modern classic design with retro styling elements.These include a round headlamp, a teardrop-shaped fuel tank, a round LED tail light, a single-piece seat, a short side-slung exhaust muffler and a short rear section. The latest test mules feature some noticeable variations in comparison to previous prototypes.New Royal Enfield Hunter 350ccFor starters, the taillight is flanked by rectangular turn indicators as opposed to circular units as seen previously. Also, earlier test units of Hunter had flaunted split grab rails whereas the latest prototypes came with a single-piece grab rail for a pillion. Another massive difference is that the latest test mules are seen rolling on wire-spoked wheels instead of alloys.Expected Features, Powertrain SpecsOn closer inspection one notices that it gets a twin-pod instrument console- one featuring the speedometer and odometer while the other getting a Tripper Navigation display. The latter is likely to be made available as an optional accessory through Royal Enfield’s MIY program. Tripper Navigation provides turn-by-turn navigation when paired to the Royal Enfield app on the rider’s smartphone via Bluetooth.Apart from this, it should receive a USB charger as a standard fitment. Powering the Hunter 350 will be a 349cc single-cylinder air-cooled OHC engine that kicks out 20.2 hp and 27 Nm of peak torque. This motor is paired with a 5-speed gearbox via a slipper and assist clutch.New Royal Enfield Hunter 350ccExpected Hardware Specs, Launch TimelineAs we already know, like new-gen Classic 350 and Meteor 350, Hunter will be underpinned by a dual-cradle frame which is suspended on 35mm telescopic forks upfront and twin gas-charged shock absorbers at rear. Anchorage setup comprises single disc brakes at both ends which are complemented by a standard dual-channel ABS.Although a specific launch timeline for Hunter hasn’t been revealed yet we expect it to make its debut during the second half of 2022, around the Diwali festive season. It is expected to be positioned just slightly below the new-gen Classic 350 in terms of pricing. More

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    2023 Royal Enfield Himalayan 450cc Spied Testing For First Time

    A diversified portfolio with new products like Himalayan 450cc will help Royal Enfield to stay ahead in the gameRoyal Enfield Himalayan 450ccAs part of its long-term strategy, Royal Enfield is working to launch an average of one new/updated product every quarter. One of these is Royal Enfield Himalayan 450, which has just been spied. It is expected to be available for sale in first quarter of 2023. Although the basic silhouette looks familiar to Himalayan 411, Himalayan 450 utilizes an entirely new platform.Royal Enfield Himalayan 450 styling and featuresCodenamed K1, Himalayan 450 comes across as a premium Adv bike. It can emerge as a viable alternative to the likes of KTM 390 Adventure, BMW G310GS and other similar Adv bikes. The core Himalayan DNA is retained, as evident with features such as round headlamp and rear-view mirrors, raised front fender and matching frame construction.Use of spoke wheels, shod with knobby tubeless tyres is another feature that’s common to both bikes. Himalayan 450 is likely to use 21-inch front and 17-inch rear wheel, the same setup as that of current Himalayan.Just like Himalayan 411, users can expect relaxed riding ergonomics with Himalayan 450. It’s made possible with features such as centrally placed footpegs, thick saddle and pulled-back, wide handlebar. Upswept exhaust in metallic finish is another similar looking feature.Royal Enfield Himalayan 450cc Render by BikewaleIn terms of things that give Himalayan 450 a unique identity, the bike gets a compact windscreen, trendier fuel tank design, and single-piece seat. It could be equipped with a new digital instrument console. The bike is likely to ditch much of the exoskeleton that can be seen with Himalayan 411. For users who may need it, the front and rear rack could be offered as an accessory.Royal Enfield Himalayan 450cc – engine and specsPowering Royal Enfield Himalayan 450 will be a liquid cooled, single cylinder motor that generates 40 bhp of max power. Just like other Adv bikes, Himalayan 450 will focus on delivering better performance in low and mid-range. As of now, torque for Himalayan 450 has not been revealed.Existing Himalayan is powered by a 411cc motor that churns out 24.3 bhp and 32 Nm. It is mated to a 5-speed, constant mesh gearbox. In comparison, KTM 390 Adv is powered by a 373cc motor that delivers 43 bhp and 37 Nm. It is mated to a 6-speed gearbox. BMW G310GS is powered by a 313cc motor that generates 34 bhp and 28 Nm. It is mated to a 6-speed gearbox.Himalayan 450 will be utilizing a trellis frame and is likely to be lighter than Himalayan 411. It will have USD forks at front, as compared to conventional telescopic forks used with Himalayan 411. Front suspension travel and ground clearance could be on the higher side. Royal Enfield Himalayan 450 is expected to be priced at around Rs 2.7 lakh (ex-sh). It will be cheaper than KTM 390 Adventure (~ Rs 3.28 lakh) and BMW G310GS (~ Rs 3 lakh).Source More

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    2023 Renault Kwid Electric Spied – Upcoming Tata Punch EV Rival

    Renault is developing a battery-powered version of Kwid for many international markets2023 Renault Kwid Electric SpiedLike many other automakers, Renault is planning on venturing into the electric mobility space in many international markets. The company’s new electric car Kwid E-Tech has been touted to cater to the entry-level EV segment in several markets. This model is already on sale in China where it is known as City K-ZE.A test mule of this EV was recently spotted on the streets of Brazil ahead of its official launch in South America. A concept of the fully electric Kwid also made an appearance at the last edition of Auto Expo in 2020. As seen in the recent spy shots, Kwid E-Tech is very similar to its IC engine counterpart with its design based on the facelifted Kwid.2023 Renault Kwid Electric SpiedBarring the closed-off front grille, Kwid E-Tech is more or less similar to the gasoline version of this hatchback. Also, there is no exhaust in the battery-powered vehicle. In fact, the test unit seen in these spy shots resembles the China-spec City K-ZE very closely. Side and rear profiles of the car are exactly identical to the regular Kwid.While there are no confirmed technical details on the Brazilian-spec Kwid EV, reports suggest that it will be equipped with a more powerful electric powertrain than the one offered in Dacia Spring offered in Europe. The latter is also a Kwid-based EV. The European electric hatch is powered by a 26.8 kWh battery pack which returns an output of 44 bhp and 125 Nm of peak torque.2023 Renault Kwid Electric SpiedIt claims a range of 295km on a single charge as per the WLTP cycle. In China, K-ZE is offered with the same battery pack and offers a range of 271km (NEDC cycle).A relatively small battery size aided by a low kerb weight of 970 kg allows the battery unit to be charged at a quick rate. Using a standard 7.4kW wall box AC charger, it takes four hours for the battery to get rejuvenated fully.On the heels of the 2020 Auto Expo, Renault announced that it will be launching Kwid EV in India in the next two years. But that has not happened yet. If the Kwid electric is launched in India, it will rival the likes of upcoming electric cars – Tata Punch EV, Maruti EV, etc.Existing Kwid in IndiaCurrently, Kwid in India is available in four trims namely RXL, RXL (O), RXT and Climber which are priced between Rs Rs 4.49 lakh to Rs 5.83 lakh (ex-showroom). It is offered in two naturally aspirated petrol engine options- a 0.8-litre unit and a 1.0-litre unit. The former produces 53 bhp and 72 Nm of peak torque whereas the latter kicks out 67 bhp and 91 Nm of peak torque.Source More

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    Tata Tigor Electric Spied – More range, Larger Battery Like Nexon EV?

    Nexon EV is set to get an upgrade – New range is estimated to be around 375 km to 400 km on a single chargeTata Tigor Electric SpiedIt is not a secret anymore that Tata Motors is working on an enhanced battery pack for its EV segment leader Nexon EV. Updated version of the compact crossover is expected to be launched on 6th April.In related news, a fully camouflaged Tigo EV test vehicle has been spotted on Pune-Mumbai Expressway recently, indicating that the compact sedan too could be in for a battery update real soon. Hat tip to automotive enthusiast Gaurang Chakrabarti for sharing exclusive spy shots.2022 Tata Tigor EV – What to expect?The fact that Tata Tigor Electric prototype is fully camouflaged point towards some visual changes, however its sheet metal design is not likely to undergo any modifications. Just like Nexon, major change will come in the form of a battery with enhanced capacity which means addition of more modules to existing battery pack.Other range enhancing approaches include improvement in energy density of cells and increasing depth of discharge. The soon-to-be-launched Nexon EV is reported to receive a capacity expansion to the tune of 10 kWh to reach around 40 kWh. This should be good for a range of at least 400 km.Tata Tigor Electric SpiedThe extent to which Tigor EV’s battery capacity will be enhanced depends on various factors, not the least of which is availability of space to accommodate those extra cell modules. We expect overall capacity to be extended at least by 6 to 10 kWh from existing 26 kWh. Updated Nexon will get a 40 kWh battery pack, compared to the existing Nexon EV’s 30 kWh battery.Range BoostObviously, this will translate into an improved autonomy. Currently, Tigor EV has a certified range of 306 km and we think Tata Motors will be aiming to achieve somewhere between 375 km to 400 km with battery update.Other mechanical changes would come in the form of new springs and dampers to account for added weight which could result in a mild variation in ground clearance. We expect the automaker to use this opportunity to also revise its variant-wise features list which may see some additions and deletions driven by customer feedback.Tata Tigor Electric SpiedThe existing PMSM e-motor producing 74 hp and 170 Nm of torque is not likely to witness any significant changes. The performance figures may vary slightly owing to a higher kerb weight but real world driving experience should be more or less the same.Launch TimelineTata Motors has a huge backlog of orders for their electric cars Nexon and Tigor. With demand on rise, the company is working on adding new variants to the line-up. These will come with larger battery pack, and will be more expensive. Tata will continue offering existing variants along with the new ones with higher range.Tata Tigor Electric SpiedWe expect new Tata Tigor EV with improved range to be launched a few months after Nexon EV. Despite being significantly cheaper than its SUV sibling, he Tigor EV finds fewer takers in comparison. A battery update could go a long way in enhancing its appeal as a potential choice for private buyers. The steadily rising fuel prices will only help the case of pure electric vehicles in general. More

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    Royal Enfield Meteor 350 Fireball Blue Colour Spied At Dealer – Launch Soon

    Royal Enfield is also developing a more powerful 650cc version of a cruiser which is expected to be named Super Meteor 650New Royal Enfield Meteor 350 Fireball Blue ColourRoyal Enfield continues to update its lineup on a regular basis. Not only do they launch new motorcycles regularly, they also give updates to existing products. The Chennai-based manufacturer will soon be updating Meteor 350 by launching a new colour option. The cruiser is currently offered in three variants namely Fireball, Stellar and Supernova.Royal Enfield Meteor 350- New Colour OptionCalled Fireball Blue, we have got hold of spy shots of this new Meteor colour option. Hat tip to S Guru, for sharing these exclusive images with us. First units of Meteor 350 wrapped in this paint scheme have started reaching dealerships and will be available for sale very soon. As the name suggests, this shade will be available for the base Fireball trim.Presently Fireball trim is offered in two colour options- red and yellow. Other than this, Meteor 350 can be had in Blue Metallic, Matte Black, Stellar Red Metallic, Brown and Blue Dual-Tone. Fireball variants are currently priced between Rs 2,01,620 to Rs 2,03,456 depending on the colour. Overall, prices of the retro cruiser peak at Rs Rs 2,19,674 (all prices ex-showroom).As seen in these spy shots, there is no noticeable change in styling of Meteor 350. The blue coloured fuel tank is complemented by a blacked-out theme for its side panels, front and rear fenders, handlebar, headlamp casing and mechanical components like engine gearbox assembly, alloy wheels and frame. A bright yellow highlight on alloy rims and Royal Enfield branding on the tank provide a sporty contrast to the bike’s overall appearance.New Royal Enfield Meteor 350 Fireball Blue ColourFeatures & SpecsIn terms of features, Meteor gets a semi-digital instrument console with smartphone connectivity, turn-by-turn navigation and turn-by-turn navigation. Apart from this, it also receives a USB charging port, a halogen headlight with a circular LED DRL and an LED taillight.Coming to hardware, Meteor is underpinned by a dual-cradle frame which is suspended on telescopic forks up front and twin shock absorbers. Braking duties are handled by single 300mm and 270mm discs at front and rear respectively which are aided by a dual-channel ABS. It rolls on chunky tyres with 100/90- R19 section upfront and 140/70- R17 section at rear.Powering Meteor 350 is a 349cc single-cylinder, air-cooled, long-stroke motor that kicks out 20.2 bhp and has a peak torque of 27 Nm. This engine is paired with a 5-speed gearbox. It weighs 191kg and has a fuel tank capacity of 15 litres.New Royal Enfield Meteor 350 Fireball Blue ColourThe new colour option of Meteor is expected to launch in a few days. It directly rivals Yezdi Roadster which is similarly priced between Rs 2.00 lakh and Rs 2.08 lakh (both prices ex-showroom). Both models are retro-style roadsters in the garb of a cruiser. More

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    2023 KTM Duke 125 Spied Testing – New Features, More Power

    All-new KTM Duke 125 will feature a range of cosmetic and mechanical updates – Launch expected in 20232023 KTM Duke 125 New GenAs may be recalled, KTM had launched current generation Duke range in 2017, starting with 390 Duke. In the following years, the platform was used for other single-cylinder Dukes such as 200 Duke, 250 Duke and 125 Duke. As revealed in spy shots, KTM is currently working on an all-new KTM Duke range. Some big changes can be expected including an offset type rear monoshock suspension.New KTM Duke 125 MY2023 – Spied2023 KTM Duke 125 test mule appears to have borrowed some of the new design features from the existing range of twin-cylinder Dukes. For example, the fuel tank seems larger and tank extensions have a much sharper look. Some updates like the five spoke alloy design seem to be inspired from new KTM RC390.Another noticeable difference is the use of double LED headlamp. It is to note that the entire range of current generation single-cylinder Dukes including 125 Duke sold in international markets are equipped with LED lights.New versions of KTM Duke spotted on road tests appear to be the new 125 Duke. They provide vital clues as to what the entire single-cylinder Duke range could look like in its new format. Manufacturers often use the same platform for multiple products, as it reduces development cost and simplifies availability of spare parts.2023 KTM Duke 125 New GenImages reveal that KTM is testing a range of new components including bodywork and chassis. One of the key changes can be seen in the trellis frame, which now has a greater number of crossbeams. This is expected to ensure a robust and stiffer setup. Another noticeable difference can be seen in the sub frame, which appears to be longer than the current version.2023 KTM Duke 125 New GenNew KTM Duke 125 MY2023 UpdatesOn closer inspection, it is evident that the mounting points for the engine have been changed. Even the engine casings do not look the same as that of the current Duke 125. Motorrad Online claims that the engine has been updated. It is expected to deliver more power and torque. Fuel efficiency is also likely to improve. We may have to wait some more time to get better clarity on the exact power and torque figures of 2023 KTM 125 Duke.Towards the rear, the swingarm looks brand new with a lattice-type structure. It also has a bracing arm. Another key change is the offset monoshock that could replace the existing centrally mounted units on current generation Dukes. However, since the test mules appear to be in an early stage of testing, not all changes may make it to the production stage.2023 KTM Duke 125 New Gen with existing Duke 125All-new KTM Duke range could debut later this year at the EICMA in Nov 2022. These will be launched in India soon after, likely by Feb 2023. With the updates, new KTM Dukes are expected to be launched at a higher price range.Source More

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    2022 Suzuki Burgman Electric Scooter Spied Again – New Spy Shots

    Upon its launch, the electric scooter from Suzuki will compete against rivals like Ather 450X, Bajaj Chetak, TVS iQube and Ola S12022 Suzuki Burgman Electric Scooter. Image – Saubhagya VasdevLike many other automakers, Suzuki has been investing its time and resources in developing an electric two-wheeler for the Indian market. The company has been testing a prototype that could be the brand’s first electric scooter in the country for more than a year now.This scooter, which is speculated to be a fully electric derivative of Burgman 125, has been spied testing once again recently. The latest spy shots have been clicked by automotive enthusiast Saubhagya Vasdev. The electric scooter looks very familiar to Burgman Street 125 in terms of look.Suzuki Electric Scooter SpiedLike in previous instances, the test was completely undisguised and wore a dual-tone paint scheme with blue and white colours. Biggest highlight from the recent spy images is the absence of an exhaust canister which is clearly visible. It also features a grey sleeve around the footboard which offers a visual distinction. Overall exterior appearance of the test mule is very similar to conventional scooters- both petrol and battery-powered.However, as per patents leaked earlier last year, it features a unique set of internal mechanics. Conventional scooters in EV space usually feature an electric motor and swingarm as a combined unit or take another approach of mounting the motor on the hub of the rear wheel. This allows freeing up space within the chassis to create more room for luggage or larger batteries.2022 Suzuki Burgman Electric Scooter. Image – Saubhagya VasdevIn this case, however, patents have revealed a unique design where a drivetrain is located in the under-seat area connected to a motor via a chain drive setup. Rest of the electric scooter’s electronics are mounted on top of the motor along with a speed controller, transformer and battery.Other visual highlightsAdditionally, the reflector is now re-positioned above the registration plate as opposed to below the plate. It also gets a rear tyre hugger for better protection and a digital instrument console, which might feature Bluetooth connectivity as well as 4G LTE. This allows for smartphone connectivity as well as connected features.Most visual details from the electric scooter have been carried forward from Burgam Street 125 though there are very noticeable variations. For starters, a single-sided shock absorber in Burgman is replaced by twin shock absorbers at rear – probably to carry additional weight of lithium-ion battery pack. Like Burgman Street, the battery-powered scooter features a similar set of alloy wheels and a chunky grab rail for pillion.2022 Suzuki Burgman Electric Scooter. Image – Saubhagya VasdevSuzuki hasn’t yet revealed any official word on its EV program in India. We expect the upcoming electric scooter to feature a powertrain comprising a 3-4kWh battery pack and a 4-6 kW electric motor. Its exact launch timeline isn’t confirmed yet, we expect Suzuki to officially unveil this upcoming electric scooter sometime later this year. Honda, TVS, Yamaha, Hero are other major two wheeler brands which have plans to launch electric scooter in India. More