More stories

  • in

    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

  • in

    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

  • in

    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

  • in

    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

  • in

    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

  • in

    2023 Royal Enfield Bullet 350 New Gen Spied For First Time

    New-gen Royal Enfield Bullet 350 is expected to be launched sometime early next year2023 Royal Enfield Bullet 350 New GenRoyal Enfield is currently in a transition phase where it is updating older models for new ones. While Meteor 350 came in to replace the Thunderbird range at the end of 2020, the new-gen Classic replaced the older generation model last year. Both new models are based on a 350cc platform that utilises a new J-series engine.Soon this new platform and engine combination will also be seen in the upcoming Hunter 350 as well has been spied frequently during its testing phase. Another motorcycle that will be employing this combo will be the new-gen Bullet 350 and a test mule of the same has been spotted for the time.2023 Royal Enfield Bullet 350 New Gen SpiedDevelopment of the new-gen Bullet has been in the news very often but until now there has been no proof of it. The latest spy spics are the first confirmation about the bike’s development.On seeing recent spy shots, one can immediately notice various differences in detail when compared to the existing Bullet 350. The biggest highlight is a double-cradle frame holding the engine as a stressed member, unlike the current model which features a single downtube frame.2023 Royal Enfield Bullet 350 New GenConstruction and casing of the engine are similar to Meteor and new-gen Classic with a new-gen J-series engine taking over from the outgoing UCE (unified construction engine) unit. Other than this there are some subtle yet significant visual updates.2023 Bullet 350 – Visual HighlightsFor instance, the testing prototype is seen with a new headlamp and taillamp which is starkly similar to Classic Reborn. It gets a new headlamp encasing as well which is embellished in chrome. It gets a brand new single-piece seat although the padding seems similar to the split-style seats in the new Classic. Front and rear fenders will also be different units from their predecessor.Speaking of the seat, the rider saddle gets a nice kink which should be proper lumbar support to the rider’s tailbone. New-gen Bullet gets a similar handlebar which is taller and more pulled towards the rider than the one in Classic Reborn. In addition, it features circular rearview mirrors also dipped in chrome.2023 Royal Enfield Bullet 350 New GenIt will be interesting to see if Royal Enfield offers a kick start with the new-gen Bullet 350 since many purists love the feel of a kick start. Majority of Bullet buyers are such purists, however, the new J series engine in Meteor and Classic doesn’t come with a kick start. More details are expected to surface in coming months.New Gen Bullet 350 – Expected SpecsPowering the new Royal Enfield Bullet will be a 349cc single-cylinder, air-cooled engine that kicks out 20.2 bhp and 27 Nm of peak torque. This motor will be paired to a 5-speed gearbox. Suspension duties will be handled by conventional telescopic forks up front and twin shock absorbers at rear. Braking will be taken care of by a disc brake at front and a drum brake at rear while being aided by a single-channel ABS. More

  • in

    Royal Enfield Hunter 350 Pillion Backrest Spied – Exhaust Note Captured

    Royal Enfield is expected to launch Hunter 350 towards the end of 2022 – Most likely around DiwaliRoyal Enfield Hunter 350 SpiedModern classic roadsters are currently blue-eyed boys for the Indian motorcycle community. For a long time, this segment has been dominated by Royal Enfield. But in recent years, the Chennai-based bikemaker has faced challenges from new arrivals in this space including Benelli, Jawa, Honda and Yezdi.That said, Royal Enfield still commands bulk of the market share in the segment of motorcycles with engine displacements ranging within 250cc and 750cc. To negate competition from other brands, Royal Enfield is developing a plethora of new models which will be hitting showrooms in coming months.Royal Enfield Hunter 350 Exhaust NoteOne of the most promising upcoming products from Royal Enfield is Hunter 350 which has been spotted testing on numerous occasions in recent months. The retro classic roadster has been spied testing yet again. A video of the same has been uploaded on YouTube by Power Stroke PS that also captures the bike’s exhaust note.By the looks of it, the motorcycle looks almost production-ready with finished body panels. As usual with most Royal Enfield offerings, Hunter will flaunt a classic retro design with signature styling highlights such as a round headlamp, a teardrop-shaped fuel tank, a single-piece seat and a short rear section.[embedded content][embedded content]It features slightly rear-set footpegs in comparison to other 350cc siblings making for a sporty riding stance. An all-black theme on its running gear and internals further accentuates its sporty appeal. Another distinct highlight is a short side-slung upswept exhaust canister which is a first for a Royal Enfield.The video posted above gives a sneak peek of the exhaust note which appears to be raspy. Other visual highlights include split grab rails and circular tail lamp and turn indicators. The test unit seen in the video posted above could be seen with a pillion backrest installed which is expected to be offered as an accessory.Expected Features & Powertrain SpecsComing to features, it is expected to boast a similar set of equipment like its 350cc siblings- Meteor and Classic Reborn. This includes a Tripper Navigation pod that displays turn-by-turn navigation on the instrument console when paired with the Royal Enfield App on a smartphone via Bluetooth. It should also receive a USB charger as standard.Royal Enfield Hunter 350 prices – To be cheaper than Classic and MeteorHunter 350 will be based on the same J1D platform which currently underpins Meteor and new-gen Classic. This chassis will be suspended on 35 mm telescopic forks at front and twin gas-charged shocks at rear. Braking duties will be carried out by single disc brakes on both wheels aided by a dual-channel ABS.Powering Royal Enfield Hunter 350 will be a familiar 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. 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 Diwali festive season. More

  • in

    Royal Enfield SG650 Shotgun 650cc Bobber – New Spy Shots

    Royal Enfield SG650 Shotgun 650cc BobberAt the time of its unveil at 2021 EICMA, Royal Enfield had described SG650 concept as the link between its past and futureThe SG650 concept was truly stunning in its design and form and had attracted significant footfall at last year’s EICMA. Production version of SG650 has been spied on test in India once again. It indicates that the bike could be launched soon.The latest spy shots give an up-close look at the upcoming Royal Enfield 650cc bobber, which is expected to be called as Shotgun 650 upon launch. Spy shots reveal that the production-spec SG650 doesn’t deviate too much from the concept. Royal Enfield SG650 Shotgun 650cc BobberA single-seat bobber, Royal Enfield SG650 leans on neo-retro styling. It looks different and yet carries the signature design aesthetics associated with Royal Enfield bikes. While the concept had full freedom to experiment, the production variant looks more relevant in practical terms.For example, funky bar-end mirrors seen with SG650 concept have been replaced with standard-looking units on production variant. SG650 concept had various other unique aspects such as CNC billet machined fuel tank and wheels, bespoke designed brake callipers, glossy aluminium switch cubes, hand stitched black leather seat and futuristic graphics. The production version of SG650 will have a relatively toned-down profile.Royal Enfield SG650 Shotgun 650cc BobberAs revealed in spy shots, SG650 has round headlamp and rear-view mirrors, wide low-set handlebar, centrally placed foot pegs, single floating-type seat, large front radiator and dual exhaust. At the rear, the bike is expected to get broad fender and round tail lamp. Riding stance is similar to that of Classic 350, which is quite comfortable.Royal Enfield SG650 engine and specsTo reduce development and production cost, SG650 will share much of its hardware with 650 twins (Interceptor and Continental GT). Engine will be the same, a 648cc, parallel twin, air/oil-cooled unit that generates 47 hp of max power at 7,150 rpm and 52 Nm of peak torque at 5,250 rpm. It is mated to a constant mesh 6-speed transmission.Suspension system on-board SG650 will have USD forks at front and twin coil-over shocks at rear. It will have 320mm and 240mm disc brakes at front and rear, respectively, integrated with dual-channel ABS as standard.Royal Enfield SG650 Shotgun 650cc BobberSG650 is expected to get a semi-digital instrument console with Tripper navigation display on the right. Bluetooth-based connectivity features are also likely to be offered as standard with the bike.In the company’s line-up, SG650 will be positioned above 650 twins. It could also be the new flagship motorcycle from Royal Enfield. It is to note that the company is working on around three more 650cc motorcycles. It includes Super Meteor 650 and a true-blue cruiser bike.Just like 350cc segment, Royal Enfield has plans to saturate the 650cc space as well. The strategy will ensure better engagement with target audience and help fend-off rivals. More