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    2022 MG Astor Electric (ZS EV) Spied – ADAS Radar, New Interiors

    2022 MG Astor Electric (ZS EV)An improved battery capacity is expected to push the certified range beyond 450 KmNew test prototypes of the facelifted 2022 MG ZS compact electric crossover have been doing rounds in India for a while now, indicating that the launch is not far away. The updated version of the EV made its international debut in October last year and is reported to enter our market next month. The relatively short turnaround time underscores the important role the model plays in MG India’s scheme of things.2022 MG Astor Electric (ZS EV) – What’s new?While there were earlier evidences which indicated that the India-spec MG ZS EV is going to adopt a smaller battery to optimize cost, a more recent report suggests that the upcoming iteration will actually adopt a larger battery pack, and hence will have an improved autonomy.For reference, the current ZS EV on sale in India is equipped with a 44.5 kWh battery pack which has an autonomy of 419 Km certified by ICAT. It is being reported that the new version will adopt a 51 kWh pack which is expected to push the official range figure over 450 Km.A larger battery pack is likely to be accompanied by a sizable increase in price tag but a best-in-class range would go a long way in bolstering the compact electric crossover’s appeal. As of now, it is the Tata Nexon which is the best seller in the segment.[embedded content][embedded content]As far as e-motor is concerned, we don’t expect any significant changes. To recap, the ZS EV is powered by a PMSM (Permanent Magnet Synchronous Motor) which has a peak power and torque outputs of 141 hp and 353 Nm respectively.The charging system comprises a regular 7.4 kW AC and fast 50 kW DC systems. The enhanced battery capacity will slightly increase the fast-charging time from 0 to 80% which currently stands less than 50 minutes.Styling updatesStyling changes on the 2022 MG ZS EV are primarily concentrated on the front fascia. While sheet metal design remains pretty much untouched, the previous version’s conventional front grille has been eliminated in favor of a body-colored pseudo grille element which is expected to bring in aerodynamic improvements.2022 MG Astor Electric (ZS EV)The MG logo on the nose has now ditched its black background and no longer hinds the charging port behind it. Instead, the new grille element houses the hardly noticeable charging port lid.The new version of the MG electric SUV also gets new alloy wheel design which also appears to bring a slight improvement to overall aerodynamics. We don’t expect any significant changes to the interior. MG India has also equipped the EV variant with some features that are borrowed from the Astor.2022 MG Astor Electric (ZS EV)A digital instrument console, larger 10.1-inch infotainment system (current ZS uses a 8-inch unit), and wireless charger, ADAS features, are likely to be the new additions. Latest spy shots of the ZS EV confirm the presence of a radar module in the front. The MG ZS is currently the second best selling electric vehicle in India after Tata Nexon. We expect the new model to continue its strong run.Source More

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    2023 Mahindra XUV300 Electric Spied Testing – Nexon EV Rival

    2023 Mahindra XUV300 Electric aka eXUV300 EV SpiedMahindra is currently exploring the potential of new designs with EVs for its passenger vehicle segmentMahindra gained the first-mover advantage into the electric vehicle (EV) space when they launched e2O, an iteration of the aging Reva, a decade back. However, it soon lost that advantage as it wasn’t able to build on extending its EV lineup while newer players like Tata Motors, Hyundai and MG launched their respective electric models.The company then launched a battery-powered eVerito sedan which tanked at the Indian auto market. This is the only electric car on offer from Mahindra currently. Now, the homegrown automaker intends to re-enter the EV space by bringing a whole range of new generation electric cars, starting with eXUV300, the battery-powered version of IC engine-driven XUV300.2023 Mahindra XUV300 Electric aka eXUV300 EVA pre-production concept version of the same made its maiden appearance at the Auto Expo. The electrified compact SUV will make its debut in 2023 which will subsequently be followed by a slew of other electric models from Mahindra. The company is also looking to explore new designs in the EV segment which means Mahindra also intends to launch all-new EV models with new brand names.2023 Mahindra XUV300 Electric SUV is expected to feature a 40kWh battery which will return an output of 130 bhp and a range of 300km in a single charge. It has now been spied testing by automotive enthusiast B Vinubalan, who has shared the exclusive spy images via Rushlane Spylane.2023 Mahindra XUV300 Electric aka eXUV300 EV SpiedSeeing the success of Tata Nexon electric in the Indian market, Mahindra has fast-tracked the launch of XUV300 electric version. It could be slightly longer despite sharing the same MESMA 350 platform, developed by Mahindra Electric completely in-house. ‘MESMA’ stands for ‘Mahindra Electric Scalable and Modular Architecture’.As of now, Nexon EV registers about 1,500 to 2,500 sales per month. It has a waiting period of 3-6 months. Tata is also working on launching a new version of Nexon EV this year, which will come with a larger battery, delivering higher range.eKUV100 only for Fleet SectorIt has also come to light that eKUV100, the battery-powered derivative of KUV100 will not cater to private buyers. Mahindra has revealed that the electric cross-hatch will only serve the fleet sector and that its planned range of 130-150km will be sufficient for its intended role.2023 Mahindra XUV300 Electric aka eXUV300 EV SpiedIncreasing the range would mean increasing the battery capacity which in turn would have increased the cost of the vehicle. Hence, it would not have been feasible for an entry-level buyer. eKUV100 recently made a brief appearance on the official website of Mahindra Electric. Like eXUV300, a pre-production concept of eKUV100 was also showcased at last year’s Auto Expo.Like many other eKUV100 was initially supposed to be launched this year, however, Covid-19 pandemic played spoilsport. Mahindra, as of now, is concentrating on strengthening its EV lineup in the commercial space where it already possesses electric three- and small four-wheelers. The carmaker believes that the current market penetration of EVs is not enough to justify the launch of electric cars. More

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    2022 Tata Nexon Electric Spied With Rear Disc Brakes – More Power?

    2022 Tata Nexon Electric Rear Disc Spied2022 Tata Nexon Electric will have better competencies against the likes of MG ZS EV and Hyundai Kona ElectricWhile Tata Nexon EV is the top selling electric car in the country, its range is relatively less in comparison to other EVs. It’s true that Nexon EV makes up for the lower range with its affordable pricing. However, it’s quite possible that some people may be willing to pay extra to get more miles on a full charge.To cater to this segment, Tata Motors will launch a long-range version of Nexon EV later this year. Although priced higher than the current model, long-range Nexon EV will still be cheaper than its closest competitors.2022 Tata Nexon Electric long-range spiedUpcoming Nexon EV has been frequently spotted on road tests in recent months. Latest sightings reveal that the car has disc brakes on all four wheels. In its current form, Nexon EV has front disc and rear drum brakes. It is possible that a long-range Nexon EV can have a higher top speed than the current model. That’s where an all-disc brake variant can ensure efficient braking and adequate safety.In terms of styling, 2022 Nexon EV does not appear to have any major changes. It continues with Tata’s Humanity line faux grille, sporty dual-beam LED headlamps and DRLs, trapezoidal fog lamps and tri-arrow motif on the bumper. Side profile is largely the same with sculpted panels, thick body cladding and tapering roofline. Rear section is also the same as the current model.2022 Tata Nexon Electric Rear Disc Spied2022 Tata Nexon Electric – batteryPrimary update for long-range Nexon EV will be a larger 40 kWh battery pack. In its current form, the car utilizes a 30.2 kWh li-ion battery. It is an IP67 certified battery and has been rigorously tested for more than 1 million kilometres across varied environments.The battery supplies power to a 3-phase permanent magnet synchronous motor that generates 129 PS of max power and 245 Nm of peak torque. Nexon EV can reach 0 to 100 kmph in 9.9 seconds. 0 to 60 kmph is achieved in 4.6 seconds.Based on user reviews, range of current Nexon EV can vary depending on various variables such as driver skills, ambient temperature, use of AC, etc. While the certified range is 312 km, real-world range is around 180-200 km. This may not be enough for folks who commute long distances every day or regularly travel inter-city.2022 Tata Nexon Electric Rear Disc SpiedAlthough Tata Motors is currently building a wide network of charging stations, waiting for the car to charge can still be a hassle. With a fast charger, Nexon EV can be charged 0-80% in around 60 minutes. Charging time runs into several hours when using a standard 15 Amp plug point.2022 Tata Nexon Electric will be better, as it is expected to have a range of around 400 kms. True range could be around 300 km. This will be adequate for city commutes as well as long-distance journeys. Nexon EV long-range variant could be launched by mid-2022.Source More

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    Upcoming Okinawa Electric Scooter Spied Testing For 1st Time

    Okinawa Oki90 Electric ScooterUpon launch, Okinawa Oki90 will cater to the premium electric scooter segment and rival the likes of Bajaj Chetak, Ola S1, Ather 450x
    Electric mobility has been gathering a lot of steam in the Indian market, especially in the two-wheeler segment. In the past few months, various battery-powered two-wheelers have entered the market and managed to grab people’s attention although several limitations remain.
    Since electric vehicles (EVs) are the future of mobility across the globe, we will be seeing numerous electric two-wheelers in the coming years. One such upcoming model is a scooter from Okinawa which has been internally codenamed Oki90. This scooter was previewed back in the last edition of Auto Expo in 2020.
    This battery-powered scooter has been spied for the first time. Going by the latest spy shots of the fully camouflaged prototype, it appears as if the scooter is nearing production. Aesthetically, most body panels of the e-scooter seemed production-ready. The paint scheme was nicely covered under a layer of camouflage.
    Upcoming Okinawa Electric Scooter Oki90
    Some notable exterior highlights include a raised pillion seat, a chunky single-piece, silver-finished grab rail which extends to form a sizable luggage rack at rear and a wide tail lamp which reminds us of Aprilia SXR 160. The thick floorboard suggests that the battery panels have been installed underneath the scooter which would provide the scooter better stability.
    Okinawa Oki90 Electric Scooter
    Upfront, it gets an LED headlamp mounted on the handlebar, and a pair of LED DRLs and turn indicators mounted coaxially on the apron. The rearview mirrors are completely embellished in chrome. The alloy wheels are quite large, especially with the standard of a scooter. The wheels appear to be 15-inch units which will also play a crucial role in the dynamics of the scooter.
    Expected Features & Specs
    Speaking of dynamics, suspension setup of Oki90 comprises conventional telescopic forks up front and dual shock absorbers at rear. Braking duties will be handled by disc brakes at both ends and most probably aided by ABS. Another feature highlight is a fully digital instrument console which is enabled with Bluetooth connectivity. The display will show crucial information such as distance to charge, etc.
    The scooter will be laced with creature comforts such as geo-fencing, navigation, diagnostics and more. Expect the scooter to be embedded with a eSIM as well. Oki90 will also be offered with two drive modes- Eco and Power which can be toggled through the right side of the switchgear.
    Okinawa has remained tight-lipped about the scooter’s specs but it is known that the Oki90 will be fitted with a removable lithium-ion battery which should offer a claimed range of 150-180 km on a single charge. Using a fast charger, the battery could be rejuvenated up to 80 percent of capacity in up to 60 minutes. However, the specs could only be confirmed after an official release from the company.

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    Upcoming Benda 300cc Sports Bike Patent Leaks – KTM RC 390 Rival

    Upcoming Benda 300cc SportsbikeThe patent images haven’t confirmed the presence of a turbocharger, but the elaborate side fairing could be used to hide it from naked eye
    Around the same time last year, Chinese bikemaker Benda teased three new motorcycles namely LFS-700, VTC-300, & VTR-300 Turbo. Prior to that, the brand was relatively unknown in international markets. Since then the company has had a dedicated European dealer network and has launched two of the three bikes mentioned above.
    The company has now turned its focus to the upcoming sports bike VTR-300 Turbo which was announced back in January 2021 along with its cruiser sibling and the 700cc flat tracker, both of them already been officially revealed. Ahead of its launch later this year, official patent images of VTR-300 Turbo have been leaked on the internet.
    The leaked patent images give us the first clear view of the upcoming entry-level superbike’s design. And unlike most Chinese auto manufacturers who blatantly rip off designs from prominent international models, Benda has taken an effort to create something new, probably since it has been developed for European markets.
    Upcoming Benda 300cc Sports Bike – VTR300 Turbo
    At first glance, the silhouette of VTR-300 Turbo is similar to most contemporary sports bikes, however, it receives some eye-catching styling details. For starters, it flaunts a unique front fascia which is difficult to decode whether the split lighting setup is the main headlamp or LED DRLs. The broad apron also houses what appears to be a single LED lamp at the centre.
    Upcoming Benda 300cc Sportsbike
    The side-on view gives us more details about the bike’s design. While VTR-300 Turbo appears to sit on a tubular steel trellis frame which features side panels that merge into beam-like elements. The lines could simply be cosmetic in nature or might also serve a functional purpose of drawing in cool air around the sides of the V-twin engine. Other notable highlights include an underbelly exhaust and a clip-on handlebar.
    Interestingly, the patents don’t explicitly reveal or confirm the presence of a turbocharger, however, it is possible that it could be nestled underneath the fairing which will help maintain its cool. Moving towards the rear, it gets a raised and stubby tail section and split-style seating like most modern superbikes. It also features twin air ducts which appear to be more than just aesthetic touches.
    Expected Mechanical Specs
    The images reveal that the steel trellis frame is suspended on upside-down forks at front and a mono-shock attached to a pivoted swingarm at rear. The bike will roll on 10-spoke alloy wheels shod with slicks. However, it only gets a single disc up front with Brembo calipers which suggests that performance will not be manic.
    Powering VTR-300 Turbo is the same 298cc liquid-cooled, DOHC V-twin engine found in its cruiser sibling VTC-300. In the cruiser, this engine can churn around 30 bhp, however, with a turbocharger on board, this BD2V58MN engine could dish out around 45 horses. The motorcycle is expected to make its global debut later this year. Upon its launch, it could rival the likes of KTM RC 390, Yamaha R3, Ninja 300, Honda CB250RR, etc. More

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    Oben Electric Motorcycle Spied Undisguised For First Time

    Oben Electric Motorcycle SpiedOben EV has plans to launch multiple products over the next 6 months; first motorcycle launch in Q1, 2022
    Choices available to customers in electric two-wheeler space has consistently increased in recent years. Oben EV will soon join the list with its electric motorcycle expected to debut in coming weeks. Oben EV will focus on providing customers an optimal mix of style, performance and ease-of-use with its electric two-wheelers.
    Oben EV electric motorcycle spied
    Oben electric motorcycle has a sporty, futuristic design with a tinge of retro thrown in. The latter is evident in the round headlamp. The bike has sharp body panelling all across and even the seats have a chiselled profile. The bike can be seen in dual-tone colour option of red and black. It is likely that more colour options will be made available at the time of launch.
    The bike is expected to offer a comfortable, upright riding stance. It has centrally placed footpegs and ergonomically mounted handlebar. Although dimensional aspects have not been revealed, the bike looks compact in terms of both length and width. Seat height appears just right to allow optimal balance and control.
    Overall, Oben electric motorcycle looks ready to zip through city streets. With ample ground clearance, it also seems capable to effortlessly tackle some rough patches. Ground clearance seems to be a little better than that of current breed of petrol-powered commuter motorcycles.
    Oben Electric Motorcycle Spied
    Oben electric motorcycle range and specs
    With range of 200 km (ideal driving condition), Oben electric motorcycle looks pretty impressive on paper. However, it is likely that range will be less in real life conditions. Range could be higher with regenerative braking, but it is not known yet if Oben electric motorcycle has this feature.
    Claimed range of 200 km is among the best in this segment. If we compare to Revolt RV400, it has range of 150 km. Oben’s range is also higher than Ola S1 Pro electric scooter that has 181 km range.
    Oben electric motorcycle top speed is 100 kmph, which should be sufficient for city needs. Just for comparison, RV400 and Ola S1 Pro have top speed of 80 kmph and 115 kmph, respectively. Talking about acceleration, Oben electric motorcycle can reach 0-40 kmph in 3 seconds. This is the same as that of Ola S1 Pro.
    Oben EV electric motorcycle charging
    Oben electric motorcycle has charging time of just 2 hours. In comparison, RV400 can be charged from 0-100% in around 4.5 hours. It remains to be seen if Oben EV will setup up its own charging network or partner with third-party EV recharging stations.
    Oben EV electric motorcycle has more than 16 patented innovations. It includes a new battery pack that utilizes maximum heat exchanging (MHX) technology. It ensures that the battery stays cool even when the motorcycle is continuously driven at high speeds.
    Connectivity features including IoT are also expected to be offered as standard with Oben electric motorcycle. Users will be able to access a range of data and analytics about their rides. More

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    Royal Enfield 650cc Bobber SG650 Spied Testing Ahead Of Launch

    2022 Royal Enfield Shotgun 650cc BobberRoyal Enfield is planning to launch atleast 3 new motorcycles in the 650cc segment this year
    The upcoming 650cc motorcycles from Royal Enfield have been generating quite a bit of buzz on the internet of late. These motorcycles have made numerous appearances on social media in recent months – via spy shots.
    Atleast 3 new 650cc motorcycles from Royal Enfield are expected this year. One is the Cruiser 650, second is Super Meteor 650 and third is Shotgun 650. Of the three, it is the latter which has now been spied. Images are credited to automotive enthusiast Deepthi, who spotted the test mule on the outer ring road in Chennai.
    Royal Enfield 650cc Bobber SG650
    Royal Enfield showcased the SG650 bobber concept at the 2021 EICMA show in Italy last year. It looks like the Bobber version of the Super Meteor 650. The test mule that has been spied, has its rear fully covered.
    Shotgun 650 possesses all the styling elements usually associated with a modern classic motorcycle from Royal Enfield. It features neo-retro styling elements such as a round headlamp, a teardrop-shaped fuel tank, single seat, dual exhaust in chrome finish and broad rear fenders.
    2022 Royal Enfield Shotgun 650cc Bobber
    The motorcycle offers a typical low-slung bobber stance which should offer comfortable riding ergonomics thanks to a low saddle, a wide handlebar pulled inwards. All this should enhance its credentials as a modern bobber.
    Mechanical Specs & Features
    Powering Shotgun will be a familiar 648cc parallel-twin motor that already propels Interceptor 650 and Continental GT 650. This power mill kicks out 47 bhp and 52 Nm of peak torque and is paired with a 6-speed gearbox via a slipper and assist clutch.
    Differences arise in the hardware department where Shotgun 650 is seen suspended on upside-down forks at front instead of conventional telescopic forks on the other 650 Twins. Rear suspension unit features twin shock absorbers as usual. Braking will be handled by single disc brakes at both ends with ByBre calipers aided by a dual-channel ABS as standard.
    In terms of features, Shotgun 650 is expected to boast an all-LED illumination, a USB charger and a semi-digital instrument console. The instrument console should come with a Tripper Navigation Pod which displays turn-by-turn navigation when paired with the Royal Enfield App on the rider’s smartphone via Bluetooth.
    RE Shotgun 650 Launch
    Launch timeline is not officially revealed. But considering that the motorcycle showcased at EICMA was a near-production ready unit – one can expect the launch to take place in the second half of 2022. Royal Enfield aims to launch 4 new motorcycles every year. This year, their first motorcycle is expected next month, in the form of Himalayan Scram 411. More

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    2022 MG ZS Electric Facelift Spied 1st Time – Tata Nexon EV Rival

    2022 MG ZS Electric SUV Spied. Image – ParthThe facelifted MG ZS EV will feature an updated exterior design in line with the recently launched European model but with different battery pack options
    A few months ago, MG Motor launched a new compact C-segment SUV named Astor which is based on the petrol version of ZS sold internationally. However, Astor is based on the facelifted ZS unlike the pre-facelift ZS EV currently on sale in India. MG Motor has been selling the electric crossover in the country since early 2020.
    MG Motor is now planning to launch a facelifted version of the ZS EV in India. A test mule of the same has been caught on camera for the first time near the company’s manufacturing facility in Halol, Gujarat. The image is credit to automotive enthusiast Parth, who shared the image via Rushlane Spylane. The prototype spotted was heavily wrapped under camouflage.
    2022 MG ZS Electric Facelift – Exterior Updated
    Since the test mule is completely covered by camouflage, it is difficult to decode the exterior design of the SUV. However, the 2022 MG ZS Electric Facelift is expected to be designed in line with Astor and the facelifted ZS EV model which made its debut in Europe three months ago. The updated exterior should feature a new hexagonal closed-off front grille with a celestial pattern flanked by sleeker LED headlamps on each side.
    Another notable difference is the reprofiled front bumper with a larger and wider air dam. That said, a crossover-ish silhouette of the current model will be carried forward to the upcoming model. The test mule is seen standing on the same set of 17-inch multi-spoke alloy wheels as the current ZS EV. Rear end of the crossover should be more or less similar with slightly revised LED taillamps.
    2022 MG ZS Electric SUV Spied
    Features Expected
    Interiors of the ZS EV facelift are also not likely to boast any dramatic updates. It should feature the same dashboard layout with highlights such as a new 10.1-inch touchscreen infotainment display and an updated fully digital instrument console. Other features expected to be on offer include Android Auto and Apple CarPlay (both probably wireless) and MG’s i-Smart connected car technology.
    Updated Powertrain- New battery on offer
    There is still no clarity if the 2022 MG ZS Electric will receive an updated powertrain. Currently, ZS EV in India is powered by a 44.5 kWh battery pack which offers a claimed range of 419km on a single charge. This powertrain returns an output of 141 bhp and 353 Nm of peak torque. In international markets, the new ZS EV facelift is offered with two battery options- a 51kWh unit and a 72kWh unit.
    As per recent Type Approval document, MG could offer a smaller battery pack in the 2022 ZS EV which will offer a lower range but will come with a lower price tag as compared to the current model. In all probability, the updated ZS EV will now be equipped with a battery capacity of 40kWh which was revealed in the approval document leaked in August last year.
    2022 MG ZS Electric SUV Spied
    MG Motor will also offer multiple charging options in the new ZS EV facelift. Presently, a 7.4kW AC charger takes six to eight hours to get fully juiced up. On the other hand, a 50kW DC fast charger takes less than 50 minutes to juice up the battery from zero to eighty percent. Current MG ZS EV is priced from Rs 21.5 lakh for base trim and costs Rs 25.18 lakh for top trim – ex-sh prices. More