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    Bajaj Pulsar NS160 To Get 5-Inch TFT Screen? Updated Switchgear Spotted

    New Pulsar NS160 Test MuleThe switchgear spotted on Bajaj Pulsar NS160 test mules is largely similar to what is currently offered and show one addition, which is hazard lightBajaj is often criticised for not offering Bluetooth connectivity with their motorcycles. Many even joke around saying the closest Bajaj has gotten, is with a blue backlit Bajaj logo that looks like Bluetooth symbol. However, Bajaj being the 3W and 2W giant that it is, is likely to get the final grin as there are big updates spotted with a Pulsar NS160 test mule.Bajaj Pulsar NS160 To Get 5-Inch TFT Screen?Pulsar lineup is Bajaj’s highest-selling and the most sought after. This sub-brand’s immense popularity is due to the culmination of more than a decade of consistent catering to enthusiasts and thrill seekers. The company also has other premium sub-brands like Dominar and Avenger. That said, Pulsar is still Bajaj’s favourite child.Bajaj has already revealed they’re launching “six new Pulsars” by the end of this financial year. This is to track growth and profitability of said new launches by the end of this year. Bajaj Auto MD, Rajiv Bajaj, promises that they have fantastic products to offer motorcycling enthusiasts. These updates could bring added features rather than updated styling.Now, a recent report has published a Pulsar NS160 test mule that had its instrument cluster camouflaged. There was just a small cutout in the camouflage for rider to see vehicle speed and fuel info, among other crucial details. This report mentions that the person who papped this mule confirmed that this new instrument cluster resembled the same TFT screen launched with 2024 Chetak scooter.NS160 new switchgearBajaj recently updated its Chetak EV with updated performance, range and a new 5-inch TFT non-touch screen for instrumentation. This instrument screen supports turn-by-turn navigation, music control, call management and customisable display themes through Bluetooth connection with a smartphone. Some of these features are optional extra with Chetak.New and improved switchgearIn the spy shots, we can see new switchgear on Bajaj Pulsar NS160 too. 2024 Chetak had new switchgear too, to control this new TFT screen. The switchgear contained dedicated buttons for Menu, Notification, Navigation, Music and more. Both side switchgear had toggle buttons too.We mentioned all of these because the Pulsar NS 160 test mules spotted, had none of these. The only addition we can see is a hazard light switch on left switchgear. So, if you were expecting identical functionalities as Chetak on Pulsar NS160, take this info with a pinch of salt.NS160 test muleHowever, the new infotainment screen on Pulsar NS160 and other Pulsars could be LCD units that has added functionalities like Bluetooth connectivity and navigation. We don’t expect any mechanical changes with Pulsar NS160. Upon launch, we expect the same set of feature additions on other Pulsar models within comparable price brackets as well.Source More

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    Baojun Yep Plus (Comet Based SUV) Debut Soon – Punch EV, Exter EV Rival

    MG Comet based new SUV Spied. Image – Tycho de FeijterCapable of carrying more passengers, the Baojun Yep Plus 5-door SUV will cater to a broader segment of users in comparison to the 3-door modelAvailable for sale in its home market China, the Baojun Yep 3-door electric SUV was launched in 2023. Latest spy shots reveal a new 5-door version in the works. The MG Comet EV based 5-door model is expected to be called Baojun Yep Plus. Launch in China is expected soon, most likely in Q1, CY2024.Baojun Yep Plus – Styling and featuresJust like the 3-door Yep, the 5-door Baojun Yep Plus has a boxy profile. Yep Plus will be longer than the 3-door Yep that measures 3.4 meters in length. However, Yep Plus will still be a sub-compact SUV, being less than 4 meters in length.MG Comet based new SUV SpiedExteriors of Yep Plus won’t have any major deviations in comparison to the 3-door Yep. This is evident with the test mule’s bumper and tail lights that are largely the same as seen with 3-door Yep. Front fascia of Yep Plus is also expected to be the same as that of 3-door Yep. Only some minor touch-ups can be introduced.However, with the longer size and additional doors, the side body panelling has changed. As compared to 3-door Yep that has the ORVMs mounted on the A pillar, the 5-door Yep Plus carries the ORVMs on the front door. Another thing to note is that this particular test mule does not have roof rails and running boards. Alloy wheels appear to be new for the 5-door Yep Plus.MG Comet based new SUV SpiedBaojun Yep Plus – Specs, performanceWith larger dimensions and more passengers to carry, 5-door Baojun Yep Plus will need a larger battery than the 28.1 kWh unit in use with the 3-door Yep. Range will be around the same as that of 3-door Yep that offers 303 km, as per CLTC standard. Performance details of 5-door Yep Plus are yet to be revealed. For reference, the 3-door Yep churns out 68 hp of max power and 140 Nm of peak torque. Its top speed is capped at 100 km/h.Baojun Yep Plus India launch prospectsIt is unlikely that an MG-badged 5-door Yep Plus electric SUV will be launched in India. However, MG Motor is developing a new EV (codenamed E260) for the Indian market, which will essentially be a rebadged version of 3-door Yep. Only minor styling changes are expected. MG’s new EV will be underpinned by Comet’s Global Small Electric Vehicle (GSEV) platform. It will have slightly larger dimensions than Comet and share a 3-door layout. Launch is expected in 2025.Just like the Comet, MG Motor will aim to launch the new EV at a competitive price point. It will be made possible with a high level of localization. Even the battery pack will be sourced locally. For Comet, the battery pack is sourced from Tata Autocomp. The new 3-door EV will be positioned above the Comet EV. It is expected to be launched in the price range of Rs 12 lakh to Rs 15 lakh.Source More

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    Hero Mavrick 440 New Teaser Reveals Headlight Design – More Spy Shots

    Hero Mavrick 440 new teaserUpon launch, Hero Mavrick 440 will rival Royal Enfield bikes like Classic 350 and Hunter 350 as well as Triumph Speed 400In partnership with Harley-Davidson, India’s largest two-wheeler manufacturer Hero MotoCorp is making its entry in the sub-500cc motorcycle segment. Hero will start its journey in this space with Mavrick 440, which is scheduled to debut on 23rd January. Ahead of the launch, a recently spotted test mule has revealed finer details about the bike.Hero Mavrick 440 – Key featuresMavrick 440 will be sharing the new 440cc platform, as seen with Harley X440. However, Mavrick has a completely different profile. While X440 has a quirky persona, Hero Mavrick is easily relatable to a classic roadster. But with features like tank shrouds, it appears that Hero too is looking to introduce some level of design innovation. It remains to be seen if this approach will help attract enthusiasts.Hero Mavrick 440 New Spy ShotsSome of the key highlights of Mavrick 440 include all-LED lighting, round headlamp and rear-view mirrors, chunky fuel tank, wide handlebar, single-piece seat and standard grab rail. While Harley X440 has USD forks at front, this particular test mule of Mavrick 440 is equipped with conventional telescopic forks. The exhaust is also different, although the positioning is the same for both bikes.Mavrick gets new alloy wheels in comparison to that of X440. But it is worth mentioning that the bike would look a lot better with wire spoke wheels. It is possible that this feature could be offered as an option. X440 already has the option of spoke and cast wheels. Spy shots are credited to Rj Biker Jpr, who has also managed to capture the exhaust note of new Hero Mavrick 440.Hero Mavrick 440 New Spy ShotsTo keep costs down, Hero Mavrick could borrow the circular 3.5-inch TFT display from X440. It displays a range of information such as gear indicator, speedometer, side stand alert, ABS alert and low fuel indication. Onboard X440, users can also connect their smartphone via Bluetooth to access calls, text, music and turn-by-turn navigation.Hero Mavrick 440 new teaserHero Mavrick 440 – Specs, performanceBraking setup for Mavrick could include 320 mm front and 240 mm rear disk brakes. Dual-channel ABS will be offered as standard. At rear, the bike has twin shocks, similar to the ones in use with X440. Powering Hero Mavrick will be the 440cc, single cylinder, air-oil cooled engine. It churns out 27 bhp of peak power and 38 Nm of max torque. It is mated to a 6-speed gearbox.[embedded content]Hero Mavrick 440 – Any worries for Royal Enfield?To make it an irresistible deal, Hero could offer the Mavrick 440 at around Rs 2 lakh. Although Hero has capabilities to launch Mavrick at an affordable price point, it is unlikely to have any major impact on Royal Enfield sales. Mavrick will create its own customer base, instead of eroding the market share of popular RE bikes such as Classic 350 and Hunter 350. Something similar is expected with other rivals such as Triumph Speed 400.Mavrick 440 is a new journey for Hero MotoCorp. The 440cc platform will spawn multiple new bikes in the future. It includes Xpulse 440 and Xtreme 440, which can help strengthen Hero’s presence in the sub-500cc motorcycle segment. More

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    Hero Mavrick 440 New Spy Shots – More Details, Exhaust Note Captured

    Hero Mavrick 440 New Spy ShotsUpon launch, Hero Mavrick 440 will rival Royal Enfield bikes like Classic 350 and Hunter 350 as well as Triumph Speed 400In partnership with Harley-Davidson, India’s largest two-wheeler manufacturer Hero MotoCorp is making its entry in the sub-500cc motorcycle segment. Hero will start its journey in this space with Mavrick 440, which is scheduled to debut on 23rd January. Ahead of the launch, a recently spotted test mule has revealed finer details about the bike.Hero Mavrick 440 – Key featuresMavrick 440 will be sharing the new 440cc platform, as seen with Harley X440. However, Mavrick has a completely different profile. While X440 has a quirky persona, Hero Mavrick is easily relatable to a classic roadster. But with features like tank shrouds, it appears that Hero too is looking to introduce some level of design innovation. It remains to be seen if this approach will help attract enthusiasts.Hero Mavrick 440 New Spy ShotsSome of the key highlights of Mavrick 440 include all-LED lighting, round headlamp and rear-view mirrors, chunky fuel tank, wide handlebar, single-piece seat and standard grab rail. While Harley X440 has USD forks at front, this particular test mule of Mavrick 440 is equipped with conventional telescopic forks. The exhaust is also different, although the positioning is the same for both bikes.Mavrick gets new alloy wheels in comparison to that of X440. But it is worth mentioning that the bike would look a lot better with wire spoke wheels. It is possible that this feature could be offered as an option. X440 already has the option of spoke and cast wheels. Spy shots are credited to Rj Biker Jpr, who has also managed to capture the exhaust note of new Hero Mavrick 440.[embedded content]To keep costs down, Hero Mavrick could borrow the circular 3.5-inch TFT display from X440. It displays a range of information such as gear indicator, speedometer, side stand alert, ABS alert and low fuel indication. Onboard X440, users can also connect their smartphone via Bluetooth to access calls, text, music and turn-by-turn navigation.Hero Mavrick 440 – Specs, performanceBraking setup for Mavrick could include 320 mm front and 240 mm rear disk brakes. Dual-channel ABS will be offered as standard. At rear, the bike has twin shocks, similar to the ones in use with X440. Powering Hero Mavrick will be the 440cc, single cylinder, air-oil cooled engine. It churns out 27 bhp of peak power and 38 Nm of max torque. It is mated to a 6-speed gearbox.Hero Mavrick 440 – Any worries for Royal Enfield?To make it an irresistible deal, Hero could offer the Mavrick 440 at around Rs 2 lakh. Although Hero has capabilities to launch Mavrick at an affordable price point, it is unlikely to have any major impact on Royal Enfield sales. Mavrick will create its own customer base, instead of eroding the market share of popular RE bikes such as Classic 350 and Hunter 350. Something similar is expected with other rivals such as Triumph Speed 400.Mavrick 440 is a new journey for Hero MotoCorp. The 440cc platform will spawn multiple new bikes in the future. It includes Xpulse 440 and Xtreme 440, which can help strengthen Hero’s presence in the sub-500cc motorcycle segment. More

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    New Mahindra Electric SUVs Spied In Ladakh – BE.05 and XUV.e9 Coupe

    New Mahindra Electric SUVs spied in Ladakh. Credit – Bunny PuniaMahindra Testing Upcoming Electric Vehicle Lineup: XUV.e9 and BE.05 in LadakhMahindra is gearing up to revolutionize the electric vehicle (EV) market with the launch of its newest electric offerings. Recent sightings of test models in Ladakh give us a closer look at two highly anticipated EVs: the XUV.e9 and the BE.05, both poised to redefine the standards of electric mobility. Spy shots are credited to Bunny Punia.Mahindra XUV.e9: Redefining Electric SUVsThe XUV.e9 emerges as the coupe version of the acclaimed XUV700. Distinguishing itself from its donor, the XUV.e9 showcases an assertive design language, marked by a pronounced bonnet featuring muscular creases and power bulges. Notably, a full-width LED light bar, more sophisticated than previous iterations, adorns the front cavity below the bonnet, enhancing its visual appeal.Mahindra XUV.e9 is electric coupe version of XUV700While the prototype retains makeshift headlights, indicative of the forthcoming production-spec units, other striking features include a seamless grille owing to its electric powertrain and substantial body claddings enveloping the mid-size SUV. Notably, the XUV.e9 opts for a strict 5-seater configuration and promises a premium powertrain experience.Performance-wise, expectations soar with an anticipated 80 kWh battery pack delivering a substantial 500 km range on a single charge. The dual-motor setup aims to generate 300 bhp, enabling an all-wheel-drive (AWD) system and a top speed of 200 km/h. Industry enthusiasts speculate on a potential launch scheduled beyond 2025.Mahindra XUV.e9 is electric coupe version of XUV700Mahindra BE.05: Embracing Futuristic DesignSimultaneously, the BE.05 captivates attention with its futuristic design language. During its UK showcase, Mahindra hinted at the production model’s faithfulness to the concept’s striking attributes, a promise upheld in recent spy shots.Mahindra BE.05 is an all new electric vehicle based on Mahindra BE platformThe front fascia boasts colossal LED Daytime Running Lights (DRLs), an unprecedented design aspect that occupies a significant vertical space, setting it apart from competitors. The rear fascinates with wild and avant-garde tail light LED signatures, signaling a departure from conventional designs. The sporty roof spoiler above a small rear windshield amplifies its aerodynamic appeal.From the side, the angular profile and expansive windshield exude a futuristic silhouette. The design team, led by Pratap Bose, has intricately infused cuts and creases into the BE.05’s sheet metal, crafting an attention-grabbing exterior.This audacious design direction marks Mahindra’s departure from conventional design norms, echoing their commitment to pushing boundaries in the EV landscape. However, while pushing innovation, the brand remains cautious not to veer into convoluted designs, a balance they aim to strike with the BE.05.Source More

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    Gensol EV Spotted Testing For The First Time – 3W EV Will Pack ADAS, Auto Park

    Gensol EV spotted testingConsidering Gensol EV spotted testing has three wheels, it might be sold as a motor tricycle and may require just a motorcycle licensePrimarily known for its solar business, Gensol Group is now foraying into electric car business. The company aims to provide urban mobility solutions to reduce city congestion. Last month, the company teased Gensol EV online and the car is now spotted in testing — hat tip to automotive enthusiast K Pratham who spotted this test mule in Chakan, Pune.Gensol EV Spotted Testing For The First TimeThe electric car startup, Gensol Electric Vehicles PVT LTD, has set up a base in India’s biggest auto cluster, Pune. The HQ seems to be in Mundhwa, Pune and the manufacturing facility is in Chakan, boasting production capacity of 30,000 units per year. The test mule is running temporary registration provided by Chinchwad RTO and the plates read ‘on test’.Gensol aims at affordable EV category that has very few action. We’re talking about a segment that will sit below MG Comet EV in terms of pricing and above PMV. Refreshing your memory, PMV has launched a mini electric car in India for Rs. 4.79 lakh (ex-sh). It is a four-door, two-seater (back-to-back) electric car with interior parts from Honda cars.Other players are toying with launch plans in this segment too. We’re talking about Ligier Mygi, a French contender, running for this segment whose test mules have been spotted in India too. Renault is planning Kwid EV that will end up in this segment as well. So, this is a potent segment for Gensol to target.Gensol EV 3-Door TeasedBut there is one oddity with the Gensol EV which is absent in the expected rivals we just mentioned. Which is, Gensol EV is a 3W vehicle, something that even PMV is not. The 3W architecture has two wheels at front and one at the back. So, it doesn’t look like a rickshaw or a Reliant Robin (Jeremy Clarkson would approve).How the seating arrangement could be?Considering Gensold EV spotted testing is aimed at affordable urban electric mobility, we might see a small battery pack capable of 200 km claimed and 150 km of real-world range and a single motor FWD layout, driving both front wheels. Top speed is claimed to 80 km/h. Gensol EV may provide seating for four adults (three in comfort) and a decently sized boot space.Doors are limited to just two and then a tailgate. Gensol is going for a tallboy design, which might be concerning to prospective buyers. High centre of gravity and three wheels are like oil and water. Gensol is developing ADAS tech and auto parking features too, that will be offered with their maiden EV. On the inside, there are two electric windows, manual AC, Android-based touchscreen infotainment (likely aftermarket), a single-pane sunroof and more.Gensol EV DashboardThis particular test mule had basic halogen reflector-style tail lights. Looking at rear section, Gensol might be using axle braking instead of wheel braking for rear single wheel. There might be RWD setup too looking at all the camouflaged components around rear wheel. Launch might happen around 2025 and the price might be below MG Comet’s. The main question remains, though – Can we drive it with a motorcycle license? More

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    Spied – Harley Davidson X210 Based On Karizma Or X440 With New Accessories?

    Harley-Davidson X440 New Accessories SpottedAs of writing this article, Harley-Davidson offers 4 accessories including a leg guard, engine guard, centre stand and front windscreenWith the launch of X440, the partnership between Hero MotoCorp and Harley-Davidson has officially spawned a product, with more to follow in the future. The company has already trademarked Hurikan 440 and Nightster 440 names in India which could be an ADV or a street bike. Ahead of that, Harley-Davidson seems to be testing more accessories for X440.Harley-Davidson X440 New AccessoriesHero MotoCorp and Harley-Davidson has mentioned that Indian customers have showed excellent responses to their maiden product. X440 is on offer in three trim levels – Denim, Vivid and S. Prices range between Rs. 2,39,500 and Rs. 2,79,500 (ex-sh) and deliveries have already commenced.On top of the four official accessories that are currently on sale, Harley-Davidson seems to be developing a new range of accessories that a recent test mule showed. These accessories were not showcased at launch or during deliveries commencing period. Multiple dealerships had informed buyers that there were new accessories incoming.The primary among the incoming accessories was rear pillion backrest. The spy shots taken near Hero MotoCorp tech centre, Jaipur, credited to automotive enthusiast XX, show a Harley-Davidson X440 test mule donning a rear pillion backrest. At first glance, this motorcycle looks like a mini bike owing to the large frame of test rider. But it is the X440 and there is no mini bike from Harley-Davidson.Harley-Davidson X440 test muleOther accessories that are expected to arrive, as per Harley-Davidson dealers (unofficial) is bar-end mirrors. However, the test mule spy shots we received didn’t have bar-end mirrors.Accessories on offer right nowCurrently, Harley-Davidson offers six elements as part of PDI kit for free and is offering four official accessories designed and developed for X440. The free elements as part of PDI kit include ORVMs, handlebar weights, saree guard, number plates and two exhaust heat shields, one on the end can and one on catalytic converter.As per paid accessories, Harley-Davidson offers a leg guard and engine bash plate both priced at around Rs. 800. Then there is a centre stand and a softer touring seat both of which are priced around Rs. 1,400. Lastly, there is a small windshield that lends a Cafe Racer look that costs approximately Rs. 400. All prices mentioned may include additional taxes and labour charges.Apart from these, Harley-Davidson also sell branded riding gears for both male and female riders of all sizes. Based on customer demand, there will be further additions to its accessories list for X440 to unlock more potential.Is this a new motorcycle based on Karizma XMR 210?Harley-Davidson has been compartmentalizing in key global markets and is spawning low-cost budget motorcycles to reach a wider range of audience. The partnership with Hero MotoCorp might turn fruitful for Harley-Davidson and the next motorcycle may have an even smaller capacity than current X440.This could be based on the recently launched Karizma’s 210cc platform. This very platform is spawning a version of Xpulse and Xtreme as well. There is a possibility that the recently spotted test mule will be based on 210cc engine as well. More

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    Aprilia RS 457 Naked Version Spotted – Duke 390, MT03 Rival

    Aprilia RS 457 Naked Version SpottedSpotted with multiple improvised equipment, Aprilia’s new naked bike is still several months away from reaching production stageAprilia recently launched the RS 457 at India Bike Week at a starting price of Rs 4.10 lakh. Even though many international markets are yet to get the RS 457, a new naked Aprilia bike has been spotted overseas on road tests. From the images, it appears to be the naked version of the RS 457.Aprilia 457 naked bike detailsFrom the round headlamp, it is clear that the naked Aprilia 457 will have a neo-retro profile. But much of the skin is missing, making it difficult to carry out a detailed analysis. Equipment such as the front USD forks appear to be borrowed from RS 457.Aprilia RS 457 Naked Version SpottedHowever, the naked model has the USD forks in golden finish in comparison to black coloured units used with RS 457. The cast aluminium alloy wheels and the 110/70-17 front & 150/60-17 rear tyres are the same as RS 457.Same is true for the braking setup that has 320 mm and 220 mm discs at front and rear. Then, there’s the 457cc, in-line two-cylinder, liquid-cooled engine. It generates 47.6 hp of max power and 43.5 Nm of peak torque. It is mated to a 6-speed gearbox and comes with ride-by-wire tech.Aprilia RS 457 Naked Version SpottedDifferent chassis and swingarmTalking about some of the unique aspects of RS 457’s naked sibling, the bike uses a steel frame. In comparison, the RS 457 has a dual beam aluminium frame. The relatively simple tubular steel frame will be adequate for the naked version. It remains to be seen if the bike’s weight is increased with the use of a steel frame. But the naked version won’t have the fairing, which will help reduce weight. For reference, RS 457 has a wet weight of 175 kg.Aprilia RS 457 Naked Version SpottedAt the rear, the naked bike has a different swingarm in comparison to RS 457. The change has been necessitated, as the rear suspension is mounted on the right side. It is not centrally placed, as is the case with RS 457. Essentially, utilizing a decentralized spring strut instead of the conventional central spring strut.The naked version of Aprilia RS 457 will have a comfortable riding stance. The test mule reveals that the optimal positioning of the foot pegs is currently being evaluated. It is evident from the perforated plates being used for mounting the foot pegs. This allows easy adjustment of the foot pegs, as needed. There is various other makeshift / WIP equipment being used such as the fuel tank and exhaust. The front section is also WIP, evident with the exposed wires, nuts & bolts and mounting brackets.Aprilia RS 457 Naked Version SpottedAprilia naked 457 launch and pricingIn its current format, the naked Aprilia 457 will take several months to reach near-production level. In 2024, Aprilia is likely to focus exclusively on the RS 457. In that case, the naked version will only be launched in 2025. Pricing will be approximately the same as that of RS 457.Source More