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    2021 Royal Enfield 650cc Cruiser KX650 Near Production Ready Spy Shots

    2021 Royal Enfield Cruiser 650
    Royal Enfiled KX650 cruiser will be powered by the same 649cc engine powering the Interceptor 650 and Continental GT 650

    That Royal Enfield has been planning to extend its range of 650cc motorcycles has already been in news for a long time now. The Chennai-based bikemaker has been planning to utilise its 650cc unit in a proper cruiser bike next.
    Royal Enfield had also presented its Concept KX bobber at EICMA in Milan in 2018. Post that, there were reports indicating that there would be a cruiser from the company in coming years. Although no official information has been shared by Royal Enfield regarding this till date. But recently, there were spy shots clicked of a RE test mule, which looks like their upcoming 650cc cruiser.
    Design
    After the first spy shots appeared, buzz over the upcoming 2021 Royal Enfield 650cc Cruiser has increased even more. Now, we have another set of spy images with us which gives few more details about the upcoming motorcycle. In this case, as well, the prototype was devoid of any camouflage.
    KX650 features a low slung profile, circular headlamps, long wheelbase, slender fuel tank and alloy wheels. Unlike the KX Concept bobber, the KX650 cruiser gets split seats for pillion instead of a single-piece seat. From the parts seen on board, it is likely that this is a near-production ready test mule.
    2021 Royal Enfield Cruiser 650
    Other eye-grabbing highlights are twin pipe exhausts, a wide handlebar, round LED taillights and round turn indicators. The rear fender noticeably looks fatter than the front one. Overall the KX650 resembles a modern cruiser with retro classic design elements.
    Hardware & Features
    It rides on 19-inch front and 17-inch rear alloy wheels with thick profile tyres. The Royal Enfield Cruiser is also expected to employ upside-down USD forks at front which is the first in the brand’s range of motorcycles.
    2021 Royal Enfield Cruiser 650
    At rear it has opted for conventional twin shock absorbers. Surprisingly it doesn’t get radially mounted brake calipers as shown in the image. It is expected to offer features like a slipper clutch with assist, dual-channel ABS and semi-digital instrument cluster with tripper navigation from Meteor 350.
    Powertrain
    The KX650 will be powered by a 649cc twin engine which is capable of generating 47 PS of power and 52 Nm of peak torque. It is likely to be paired with a six-speed gearbox. The same powertrain is also employed in Interceptor 650 and Continental GT 650.
    Launch of the new RE cruiser 650 is expected later this year, around Diwali 2021 period. Ahead of that, Royal Enfield will launch new gen Classic 350, Facelifted 650 Twins Int and Conti GT. When launched, the cruiser is expected to be priced around under Rs 4 lakh on road.
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    2021 Royal Enfield 650 Twins Conti GT Spied – Facelift With Tripper Navigation?

    2021 Royal Enfield Continental GT 650 Spied
    While Interceptor is a retro classic roadster, Continental GT 650 is a retro cafe racer

    Ever since their launch in 2018, the 650 Twins- Interceptor and Continental GT have been the eye candy for Royal Enfield consumers. Especially those seeking a fun and spirited motorcycle to ride something different from retro commuter and cruiser motorcycles for which the brand is best known.
    The models have been instrumental for Royal Enfield’s resurgence as a global brand since both the models have received positive feedback from Royal Enfield customers of overseas markets. Now, the brand is looking to give a minor mid-life facelift to both its premium offerings.
    Changes Expected
    Spy shots of the 2021 RE 650 Twins have been clicked by automotive enthusiast Arjun, near ECR in Chennai, Tamil Nadu. Though there has been no official announcement regarding a facelift for Interceptor 650 and Conti GT 650, recent announcements by Royal Enfield and the timing of these getting spied, does indicate towards an incoming facelift for 650 Twins.
    Recently, Royal Enfield claimed that they would be launching at least 28 new motorcycles in the next seven years; which means one new motorcycle every quarter. It is likely that a mid-life facelift to the 650 Twins fits the bill. If that is the case, these are the first reported set of 650 Twins Facelift. If we were to guess, then this new facelifted 650 Twins are expected to launch sometime next year.
    2021 Royal Enfield Continental GT 650 Spied
    New Colours, Tripper Navigation
    The RE 650 Interceptor facelift and Continental GT 650 Facelift are not likely to incorporate any major changes, maybe only small cosmetic changes, new colours or a slight tweak to its engine to draw more output of it. In all probability, Royal Enfield will give facelift to Continental GT and Interceptor at the same time.
    Facelifted RE 650 Twins will continue with the same retro classic styling with round halogen headlamps, spoked wheels (alloys launch planned), minimal body panels and twin exhaust mufflers. It is also likely to get bluetooth enabled tripper navigation, which was recently launched with Meteor 350.
    2021 Royal Enfield Continental GT 650 Spied
    Engine
    Both 650 Twins are powered by a 648c parallel-twin oil-cooled engine which in its BS6 form churns out 47 bhp and 52 Nm of peak torque. This unit is linked to a 6-speed gearbox. While Interceptor 650 is offered at a starting price of Rs 2.66 lakh, Continental GT 650 is pegged at a starting price of Rs 2.82 lakh (both prices are ex-showroom).
    Facelifted 650 Twins might get a minor bump in price, in comparison to the current prices. Royal Enfield has also announced that from Feb 2021, the 650 Twins will come with optional alloys. Existing customers can purchase the same from company dealers or via their website and get them replaced on their motorcycles. It is likely that the facelifted 650 Twins come with factory fitted alloys when launched later next year. More

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    2021 Tata Nano Electric Spied With Digital Speedometer – Jayem Neo

    Tata Nano Electric – Jayem Neo
    The Tata Nano EV with standard airbag and ABS would be an interesting proposition in the current scenario

    Back in November 2017, Tata Motors and its long-standing collaborator Jayem Automotives announced a partnership to introduce electric version of the Tata Nano under the Jayem Neo brand. The Neo was originally supposed to be inducted into Ola Electric’s fleet with a reported order size of 400 units.
    After a delay of almost 2 years, in mid-2019, it was reported that Ola Electric secured a debt fund of INR 40 cr from Tata Motors Finance to purchase Jayem Neo EV as city taxi. Now, a 2021 Tata Nano electric test mule has been spotted in Akurdi, Pune.
    Tata Nano EV / Jayem Neo yet to see the light of day
    It’s been over three years since the first announcement but the Tata Nano EV a.k.a. Jayem Neo has neither been introduced as an urban taxi nor as a private vehicle. However, it seems Tata and Jayem haven’t completely ditched the project as evident from the recent spotting of an undisguised Neo test mule. Spy shots are credit to Pravin Nair, who shared the images on Rushlane Spylane Facebook Group.
    As far as design is concerned, the Jayem Neo is identical to the now-defunct Tata Nano but it does not feature Tata branding anywhere. This particular mule features black bumper to keep the costs low. Closer observation reveals that the Neo EV is equipped with a fully digital instrument display which is mounted above the center console.
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    Specifications
    Based on the spy video from Smiley Tamilian Tech above, the Tata Nano EV is powered by a 17.7 kW, 48V (23 hp) electric motor supplied by Electra EV, which also supplies electric powertrain to Tiago and Tigor. According to the original arrangement made 3 years ago, Tata Motors was supposed supply Jayem with complete body panels of the car and the Coimbatore-based company was supposed to install the electric powertrain and retail it.
    Tata Motors discontinued the Nano as the poor demand did not justify re-engineering the vehicle to meet the latest vehicle safety norms. However, if the company still hopes to leverage the small car’s untapped potential in the emerging electric vehicle market, then a comprehensive safety update is necessary.
    Tata Nano Electric Specs
    Launch Plans
    Whether it is going to be marketed as Tata Nano EV or Jayem Neo, the urban runabout would have to be fitted with driver airbag, ABS, front passenger seat belt reminder and reverse parking sensor as standard. Top speed will be 85 kmph. It is also FAME II certified.
    The Tata Nano Electric will have a maximum range of 203 km. With AC on and 4 adults on board, the vehicle should return a range of around 140 km. We think that, with a silent powertrain and appropriate marketing strategy, the Tata Nano EV could be an interesting proposition as both urban taxi and a private vehicle. More

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    2021 Royal Enfield Classic 350 Production Spec Spied Undisguised – Launch Soon

    2021 Royal Enfield Classic 350. Credit – Krishna
    Much awaited launch of the new gen Royal Enfield Classic 350 is near – First undisguised spy shots

    Royal Enfield has dominated the sub-400 cc retro segment for several years with bestsellers such as Classic 350. However, things could change dramatically in this space in the coming months with availability of new products such as Jawa and Honda H’ness (CB350). There are talks that Bajaj will also be entering this space with launch of a cruiser named ‘Neuron‘. However, this hasn’t been officially confirmed by Bajaj.
    Even though Royal Enfield has updated Classic 350 to BS6, it won’t be enough to match offerings of rival motorcycles. This is why the company had planned to launch next-gen Classic 350 during the festive season. However, this did not happen due to corona virus, supply chain bottlenecks and production constraints – all have been cited as reasons for the delay in launch of Classic 350.
    But it seems that Royal Enfield is getting ready to launch the new gen Classic 350 in the coming weeks as an undisguised production-ready variant has now been spied on public road. Caught on camera by automotive enthusiast Krishna, it looks like 2021 Classic 350 is nearer than one would expect.
    Next-gen Classic 350 design and features
    As revealed in spy shots, next-gen Classic 350 continues with the core design of its predecessor. Similarities with the current model include features like round headlamp, chrome rear view mirrors, teardrop-shaped turn indicators, broad rear fenders, and chrome plated exhaust. Talking about the wheels, it is not certain if production variant will have spoke wheels or alloy wheels.
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    Although the test mules have been spotted with new body panels, it is expected that production variant will continue to focus on retro styling that RE fans prefer. However, to keep the motorcycle relevant to evolving market trends, next-gen Classic 350 will come with features such as LED DRL, semi-digital instrument console and new paint options. Just like Meteor 350, even the Classic 350 will not get LED headlamp.
    2021 Royal Enfield Classic 350
    Next-gen Classic 350 has been built on the new modular J platform. This platform will be used for several other next-gen products that Royal Enfield will launch in the near future. It is expected that the new platform will be better in terms of handling, manoeuvrability and comfort. It could also be lighter, something that will improve power to weight ratio. This could make next-gen Classic 350 more agile in city conditions.
    2021 Royal Enfield Classic 350
    Next-gen Classic 350 engine
    Powering next-gen Classic 350 will be an all-new 350 cc engine that will have the advanced SOHC setup. In comparison, the current 350 cc engine utilizes the archaic tappet-valve (push rod) system. It is expected that the new engine will fare better in terms of responsiveness and acceleration. Vibrations are also likely to be reduced. The new engine is capable of generating 20.2 bhp of max power at 6100 rpm and 27 Nm of max torque at 4000 rpm. This is mated to a 5-speed transmission.
    2021 Royal Enfield Classic 350
    In terms of tech upgrades, next-gen Classic 350 could get Bluetooth connectivity. It will allow users to access a range of features via their smartphone. Rest of the equipment such as suspension, disk brakes and dual-channel ABS will be the same as the current model. Next-gen Classic 350 is expected to be offered in the price range of Rs 1.6 lakh to Rs 2 lakh. More

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    2021 Royal Enfield Himalayan Spied – Gets Tripper Navigation From Meteor

    2021 Royal Enfield Himalayan Spied
    The 2021 Royal Enfield Himalayan will get the smartphone-enabled turn-by-turn navigation feature

    The Royal Enfield Himalayan is set to receive a minor model year update and the prototype has been spotted testing in Chennai again. While there are no significant visual changes to the motorcycle, it will incorporate new features.
    2021 Royal Enfield Himalayan – What’s new?
    While it is not visible in this spy shot, the 2021 Royal Enfield Himalayan is equipped with the Tripper Navigation feature that debuted on the recently launched Meteor. The Tripper Navigation is essentially a smartphone-enabled turn-by-turn navigation system.
    So, it is reasonable to expect an updated instrument cluster with at least one small circular dial with colour display for navigation just like the one of Meteor 350. Going with previous Royal Enfield updates, it is reasonable to expect new colour themes.
    The spy shot above is credit to automotive enthusiast Hidayath, who managed to click it while the motorcycle was on test in Adyar, Chennai. The rider of the Himalayan on test was wearing Royal Enfield accessories – shoes, jacket, gloves and helmet.
    2021 Royal Enfield Himalayan Spied
    Specifications
    When it comes to engine specifications, we don’t expect any major changes since the 411 cc single-cylinder, air-cooled engine received BS6 emissions upgrade not long ago. We are expecting the motor to make headway in the refinement department. In its current state of tune, the fuel-injected motor has 24.3 hp and 32 Nm of torque. The 5-speed gearbox will be carried forward.
    The 2021 Royal Enfield Himalayan is expected to be introduced in within the first quarter of next year. The retro classic specialist is also gearing up for a comprehensive product launch campaign in 2021. The eagerly awaited next generation Classic 350 based on the new J Platform is slated to introduced in the first half of next year. It will soon be followed by more new models in the 350 cc space. A flagship 650 cc cruiser based on the Interceptor 650 and Continental GT 650 platform is also in advanced stages of development.
    2021 Royal Enfield Himalayan Spied
    Himalayan’s market performance
    In November 2020, the adventure tourer managed to clock 1,550 units at a YoY growth of 95%. The KTM 250 family which includes the Adventure variant as well found 1,590 takers. In comparison, its rival Bajaj Dominar 400 posted sales of 856 units. With the two wheeler industry in general showing signs of improvement, the Himalayan is expected to maintain its sales momentum. The upcoming update would go a long way in enhancing its appeal.
    Royal Enfield has been the undisputed leader of the Indian medium displacement motorcycle segment and we don’t see any formidable threat from its rivals in the foreseeable future. If you’re a Royal Enfield fan, 2021 will have a lot of interesting things in store for you. More

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    2021 KTM RC 200 Enters Production – Spied Undisguised For First Time

    2021 KTM RC 200
    Ahead of its expected launch in Jan 2021, the all new KTM RC 200 has now entered production at the company plant in Chakan near Pune

    KTM has had a busy 2020, especially in India, where the brand launched Adventure 250 and 390 this year. Gave a minor facelift to Duke 250 and Duke 125. In comparison, the RC series did not get much updates. Except for a colour update a few weeks ago – they were more or less left untouched.
    But we knew, that something was brewing with the KTM RC range. There was a regular flow of spy shots – first from Europe, and then from South East Asia. Reportedly, KTM has been working on giving the RC 125, 200, 250 and 390 – a thorough update. From updates to the engine, to the design, as well as chassis – the 2021 model year KTM RCs will be a completely new machine.
    If it was not for the Covid19 pandemic, it is likely the new RC range would have already made their global debut – at the now cancelled 2020 EICMA. Just like how the 390 ADV made its global debut at the 2019 EICMA.
    2021 KTM RC 200
    First undisguised photo of the all new KTM RC 200 has now been leaked, thanks to Tushar – who has shared the photo on Rushlane Spylane Facebook group. The leaked spy photo of the 2021 KTM RC200 has been clicked on what looks like the production line. Considering that KTM RC, Duke, ADV motorcycles under 400cc are exclusively produced at the Bajaj plant in Pune – it is more or less certain that the photo is from the same plant in India. You can even notice Husqvarna motorcycles in the background.
    2021 KTM RC 200
    The lone spy shot gives a clear look at the front design. As noted in the spy shot, it gets a halogen unit – similar in design that is on offer with the Duke 200. The halogen unit is surrounded by LED DRL. There also seems to be a larger visor. Graphics are new, while the Black and Orange colour scheme is carried forward. Expect more colour options on offer as well.
    Design Updates
    If you notice closely, the disc brake setup in the front is different to the existing model. Instead of being attached to the wheel hub, the front disc is attached to the alloy-spokes. This is clearly noticeable in an early spy shot of new RC 200, seen below. In addition, there also seems to be a new rear subframe, side-mounted exhaust has been replaced by under-belly unit.
    2021 KTM RC 200
    In comparison to the current model, the changes mainly come in the form of a redesigned fairing, new set of wheels and larger windscreen. The fuel tank is noticeably bigger while the tail section is more ‘pointy’ than before. Of course, the TFT instrument console (probably with more functions) will be added as well.
    Engine
    Current KTM RC 200 engine in its BS6 form; is powered by a 199.5 cc single cylinder engine, rated to deliver 25 hp @ 10k rpm and 19.2 Nm @ 8k rpm. It is likely that the new RC 200 gets this same engine, as Bajaj – KTM has invested good enough in upgrading this engine to meet BS6 / Euro5 emission norms. This engine is mated to a 6 speed gearbox.
    We expect KTM to officially take the covers off the next-generation RC 200 in the coming weeks – most likely in Jan 2021. As has been the case most of the time, expect the bike to be launched first in India, followed by launch in other countries around the world. Prices are expected to start in the range of Rs 2.1 lakh, about Rs 10k more than the current RC 200. Later in the year 2021, expect the launch of updated RC 125, RC 250 and long-awaited RC 390 as well. More

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    Peugeot Django, Pulsion 125cc Scooters Spied In Pune – Fascino, Vespa Rival

    Peugeot Django 125
    Mahindra owns Peugeot Two Wheeler division and has plans to launch scooters in India

    It was last year that Mahindra purchased 100 percent stake in Peugeot Motorcycles. Mahindra Two Wheelers division has plans to not only launch Peugeot scooters and motorcycles in India, but to also export them from India.
    Retro styled scooter lovers could have more options to choose from in the near future, as two new Peugeot scooters have been spied on test in Pune. Currently, the retro styled scooter segment is dominated by the likes of Yamaha Fascino and Vespa that offers several products in 125cc and 150cc range. Peugeot Motorcycles could also introduce Pulsion 125, which is a maxi scooter built for urban commutes.
    Peugeot Django 125
    Based on the legendary S55 scooter, Django 125 lets retro fans relive the glorious era of the 1950s. It is distinguishable with its curvy, aerodynamic body panels, simple yet elegant styling, round headlamp and rear view mirrors, LED lights, split saddle seats, chrome accents, large grab rails, and body coloured deck. The one spotted in India comes with a dual-tone colour theme of red and white.
    Django 125 is powered by a 124.6 cc, air cooled engine. Power and torque output varies based on the country. In its home market France, the engine is tuned to deliver 10.2 hp of max power and 8.9 Nm of max torque.
    Peugeot Django 125
    The scooter utilizes a tubular steel chassis with hydraulic telescopic fork at the front and hydraulic shock absorber at the rear. The scooter has disc brakes at both ends and single-channel ABS is offered as standard.
    Some key features available with Django 125 include USB charging, under saddle storage, semi-digital instrument console, and retractable aluminium footrest. Security features include an anti-theft mechanical lock and steering lock.
    Peugeot Pulsion 125
    Peugeot Pulsion 125
    This is designed to offer max comfort and convenience to city commuters. Negotiating traffic can become real easy with Pulsion 125, as it comes with a peppy 124.8cc, liquid cooled engine that delivers 14.4 hp at 9000 rpm and 11.9 Nm torque at 7000 rpm. The scooter comes with relaxed, upright riding position, which ensures optimal comfort during city rides.
    The maxi-scooter is equipped with i-Connect connectivity tech that allows users to connect their smartphones with the instrument console. Users can manage calls, text messages, and access turn-by-turn navigation. The instrument panel is a raised unit, which makes it easier to see useful information without the need to take the eyes off the road.
    Peugeot Pulsion 125
    Talking a bit about design, Pulsion 125 comes with a dominating profile. Some key features include chequered grille, LED DRLs, dual headlights, tall windscreen, TFT colour display, and single piece step-up seat.
    Peugeot Motorcycles is one of the oldest two-wheeler manufacturers in the world, having started operations in early twentieth century. It currently functions as a 100% subsidiary of Mahindra Two Wheelers. The company sells its products at various destinations across the globe including European countries, Asia-Pacific and Australia.
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    Smart ForFour Electric Car Spotted In Bangalore – Near Mercedes Showroom

    Smart ForFour Electric Car Spotted In Bangalore
    While the Smart ForFour will thrive in a congested city environment, it is too expensive for India

    Smart, a popular European city car brand which was born out of a partnership between famed Swiss watch maker Swatch and Mercedes-Benz, has no official presence in India. The Smart ForTwo and ForFour micro-hatchbacks feel at home in congested urban environment with narrow seats and hard-to-find parking spots. These cars will excel in cities like Mumbai, Delhi, Bangalore and so on, but they are deemed too expensive for our market.
    Smart ForFour in Bangalore
    A Smart ForFour with private registration plates has been recently spotted in Bangalore, by automotive enthusiast Paulson. The car was spotted near a Mercedes Benz showroom. A little bit of digging showed that the five-door micro-crossover-esque hatchback is registered to Daimler India Commercial Vehicles (DICV). It has been registered in 2018 but interestingly there are no documented spotting prior to this instance.
    Perhaps the vehicle spent most of its time indoors as a part of an internal project. After all, Mercedes-Benz Research and Development India (MBRDI) is based in Bangalore and plays a significant role in the automaker’s global R&D network.
    It is also possible that, as the registration details suggest, one of DICV’s top expat officials wished to use the Smart ForFour as their official company car instead of a swanky Mercedes in a bid to beat the infamous Bangalore traffic.
    Smart ForFour Electric Car in Bangalore
    So, the ForFour could be a private import as a company car. The proper registration suggests that the vehicle is not here for testing purposes and hence we don’t expect Smart to make its Indian foray anytime soon.
    Smart ForFour at a glance
    Introduced in 2014, the current generation of Smart ForFour shares its platform with the Renault Twingo small car. The entry-level model is powered by a 1.0-liter three-cylinder naturally aspirated petrol engine which puts outs a modest 70 hp while higher variants get a 0.9-liter turbocharged three-pot petrol unit which is good for 90 hp. There is also a EQ ForFour, a pure electric variant which has 82 hp on tap.

    In terms of equipment, the Europe-spec Smart ForFour features a touchscreen infotainment system, multiple airbags, ABS, ESP, alloy wheels, dual-tone exterior color theme and so on. The ForFour is a zippy and nimble urban runabout.
    India’s Smart ForFour equivalents
    The Smart ForFour is for the European market what the Maruti Ignis is for India. The SUV-ish hatchback a.k.a. micro-crossover is an emerging concept in our market with three new models in the pipeline namely the Tata HBX, Citroen CC21 and Hyundai AX1 (all are codenames). More