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    New Hyundai Micro UV Spied First Time – Maruti WagonR Electric Rival?

    Hyundai Micro UV
    Hyundai’s mass market electric car for India is expected to be ready by 2023

    Hyundai has gone on record to state that they are studying the possibility of a mass market EV for India. With the help of its Namyang R&D HQ, Hyundai’s Indian team has already commenced a study to arrive at optimal key parameters (range, power, price, etc) for a mass market EV.
    Hyundai AX1 micro UV spied in Korea
    Prototypes of what could eventually emerge as a mass market electric vehicle for the Asian markets have been spotted on a truck in South Korea. The Venue-style low-mounted headlamps and a prominent grille give away Hyundai’s identity. International media reports claim that these are Hyundai AX1 (codename) micro UV prototypes.
    The camouflaged test mules appear to have near-production body panels. From what we can see, the vehicle features an SUV-ish tall-boy design with a compact footprint. The angular design elements gives the car an interesting and unconventional shape. Finer elements are under wraps but it is reasonable to expect radical design conforming to the brand’s current language.
    Specifications
    The technical details of the new Hyundai AX1 small car are scarce for now but the tall wheels and narrow tyres are indicative of a configuration which is commonly preferred for an electric vehicle.
    Hyundai Micro UV Codenamed AX1 – Rival to Maruti WagonR Electric in India?
    With global automotive markets including India scrambling to adopt electric mobility at the earliest, it would be prudent for any upcoming mass market product to prioritize pure electric powertrain during the development phase even if it has to adopt conventional IC power units at the beginning of its life cycle.
    If the Hyundai AX1 is to be propelled by fossil fuel, then the most likely powertrain candidate is the 1.0-liter three-cylinder unit which is available in both NA and turbocharged guises. As far as electric propulsion system goes, Hyundai is likely to have multiple motor and battery configurations to suit different markets.
    Will it come to India?
    It would be surprising if a car of this size and shape from Hyundai does not make it to India. We expect it to be showcased in the form of a concept at Auto Expo 2022 before its market launch sometime later that year or in 2023. Hyundai’s mass market electric vehicle will be pitted against the upcoming Maruti WagonR EV, Mahindra eKUV100, Citroen sub Rs 8 lakh EV for India, etc.
    Just like Hyundai India’s current mass market products, the upcoming electric vehicle will have over 90% localization in order to achieve a competitive price point. The future is electric and Hyundai knows it very well.
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    2021 Kawasaki ZX10R, ZX10RR Spied Undisguised Ahead Of Global Debut

    2021 Kawasaki ZX10R
    The motorcycles appear to be equipped with a new TFT color instrument panel

    The 2021 Kawasaki ZX10R and ZX10RR liter-class supersbikes have been leaked through vehicle certification data that was submitted by the manufacturer to the Australian government’s department of Infrastructure, Transport, Cities and Regional Development. A set of low-resolution images give us an idea about the updates for the new model year.
    2021 Kawasaki ZX-10R and ZX-10RR
    Kawasaki reportedly filed the vehicle certification data with the Australian government in August 2020 with a request to keep the information under embargo till November 1. It appears that the Japanese sportsbike brand planned to unveil the facelifted twins before this date but the COVID related issues pushed the world premiere to November 23. The images which are now available in the public domain highlights the visual changes clearly.
    2021 Kawasaki ZX10RR
    The new ZX-10R and its sibling adopt a comprehensively redesigned fairing with H2-style front fascia. The sleeker two-part headlamp unit (likely to be LEDs) is set deep into an edgy front fascia. The side panels of the fairing have also been revised for a more streamlined look. The fuel tank and tailpiece have been carried forward without any noticeable changes but the liter-class twins appear to be adopting a new color TFT instrument console.
    The front turn indicators continue to be integrated into the rear view mirror housings. For the new model year, both ZX-10R (black) and ZX-10RR (green) sport matte finish.
    2021 Kawasaki ZX10R
    Specifications
    The duo continue to be powered by the familiar 998 cc inline four-cylinder, liquid-cooled engine. The power outputs are identical to the outgoing models but they are generated at different engine speeds, suggesting that Kawasaki has introduced some tweaks. The changes are likely aimed at meeting the Euro 5 emission standards.
    The 2021 Kawasaki ZX-10R produces 200 hp at 13,300 rpm (300 rpm earlier than before) while the 2021 ZX-10RR produces 201 hp at 14,000 rpm (500 rpm later than before). The US-spec models will be available in a lower-spec 186 hp version.
    2021 Kawasaki ZX10RR
    As far as other hardware elements are concerned, the updated motorcycles seem to have soldiered on without any significant changes but we will have to wait for the world premiere to be sure. The Showa Balance Free Front forks and Brembo twin-disc brake system are visible on the images are are retained unchanged.
    Launch
    The 2021 Kawasaki ZX-10R and ZX-10RR are expected to reach international markets in early next year with a marginal hike in price. We expect the superbike to make its Indian debut a few months later. It will continue to rival the likes of Yamaha YZF-R1, Honda CBR1000RR-R Fireblade and so on. More

  • KTM 250 Adventure Colour Options Detailed – Exp Price Rs 2.3 Lakhs

    The 249 cc single-cylinder liquid-cooled motor has 30 hp and 25 Nm of torque on tap, and comes mated to a 6-speed gearbox
    KTM 250 Adventure Colour Options

    New KTM 250 Adventure was recently spied at a dealer event and it is likely to be introduced in the coming weeks. The quarter-liter version of the adventure tourer was supposed to be launched earlier this year but the pandemic has pushed timeline quite significantly.
    KTM 250 Adventure colours
    We can confirm that the KTM 250 Adventure will be available in two liveries. Of course one of them is a theme dominated by the brand’s quintessential orange. The second one has black as its primary colour with orange decals.
    While the bodywork is identical to the 390 Adventure, the livery serves as a distinguishing factor between the two variants. Also, as expected, the 250 Adventure ditches the 390’s vertically bifurcated full-LED headlamp in favour of a halogen unit with integrated LED DRLs.
    KTM Adventure to get more accessible
    When the KTM 250 Adventure goes on sale later this month, it will become the Austrian brand’s most affordable adventure tourer. With an attractive pricing, the quarter liter motorcycle is expected to be an important volume generator for the company in India and select export markets.
    KTM 250 Adventure Brochure Leaflet
    It is expected to be priced in the Rs 2.3 lakh range, ex-sh. In the domestic market, the 250 Adventure will lock horns with the likes of Royal Enfield Himalayan and Hero X-pulse 200.
    Specifications and equipment
    The soon-to-be-launched KTM is powered by a familiar 249 cc single-cylinder, liquid-cooled motor which outputs an impressive 30 hp and 24 Nm of torque. The motor is paired with a 6-speed gearbox via a slipper clutch. Same motor currently serves the 250 Duke and the Husqvarna 250 twins.
    The trellis frame, 17-inch alloy wheels, dual-purpose tyres, WP front and rear suspension systems are identical to the 390 Adventure’s. It will also get the premium features like Bluetooth connectivity via fully digital TFT instrument cluster. It remains to be seen if it will get features like off-road ABS, traction control, ride-by-wire, rides modes and so on, in a bid to arrive at a competitive price point.
    Price
    KTM is known for getting its pricing absolutely spot on. We expect the 250 Adventure to be retailed with a price tag of around INR 2.3 lakh (ex-showroom), making it significantly cheaper than the 390 Adventure which retails at INR 3.04 lakh (ex-showroom).
    The Husqvarna’s 250 twins have been raking up decent volumes in India post lockdown, and we expect the 250 Adventure to improve this platform’s economies of scale quite significantly. More

  • Upcoming Royal Enfield 650cc Cruiser New Spy Shot – Launch 2021

    Launch of the Upcoming Royal Enfield 650cc Cruiser is expected to take place in the second half of 2021

    The Royal Enfield 650 Twin engine has given the retro classic brand a solid credibility in the medium displacement segment not only in India but also in international markets. Thanks to the Interceptor 650 and Continental GT 650, Royal Enfield is gaining more and more visibility on a global scale. So, it makes logical sense for the company to milk this engine as much as possible and come up with more body styles.
    Royal Enfield 650 Cruiser
    Royal Enfield’s intention to come up with a medium displacement twin-cylinder premium cruiser was first revealed by the KX Concept which debuted at EICMA in Milan, Italy, last year.
    The company did not announce any solid plans to come up with a production version, but the twin-cylinder cruiser is well on its way to the market, as evident form the recently spotted near-production prototype.

    The same has now been spotted again. While Royal Enfield hinted that a possible production version of the KX would get a 834 cc engine, we have reasons to believe that the final production version is likely to carry forward the existing 650 Twin without much changes. For starters, the prototype sports a single front disc which is atypical of a product with higher displacement.
    Royal Enfield 650 Twin
    On board the Interceptor and Continental GT, the 648 cc parallel-twin engine develops 47 hp and 52 Nm of torque. We expect the cruiser to have identical power outputs but the 6-speed gearbox is likely to feature tweaked ratios to promote better bottom end torque for the typical cruiser riding experience.
    Suspension and brakes
    The Royal Enfield 650 Cruiser features upside-down front telescopic forks and regular twin-rear shock absorbers. Just like its siblings, the upcoming model employs twin silencers. Braking system consists of a disc brake at either end. The alloy wheels come shod with generously proportioned tyres.
    Launch
    The Royal Enfield 650 cruiser is expected to undertake an extensive testing regime which means we are not likely to see the launch happening in 2020. The company’s immediate focus is to introduce its next generation range of 350 cc models based on the new platform.
    The next motorcycles which will be launched by Royal Enfield, will be the Meteor 350 and Classic 350. Meteor 350 launch has been pushed back to post Diwali 2020 period while that of Classic 350 has been pushed back to post April 2021. Launch of the RE 650 cruiser will take place after that, most likely by Diwali 2021. Once launched, it is expected to be priced in the range of Rs 4 lakhs, on-road. More

  • KTM 250 Adventure Leaks From Dealer Showcase Event – Launch Soon

    Upon its launch, the KTM 250 Adventure will compete against the likes of Hero Xpulse 200 and Royal Enfield Himalayan

    KTM is all set to make its fans beaming with joy by introducing its entry-level adventure tourer. The Austrian bike maker is expected to launch the 250 Adventure soon around the festive season later this month. Ahead of that, KTM India has showcased the motorcycle to their dealers in India.
    KTM had earlier revealed its plan to launch the 250 Adventure motorcycle in the first quarter of 2020. However, that as not happened. Instead, BAJAJ-KTM launched Husqvarna 250 Twins in February. The launch of KTM 250 was further delayed due to the outbreak of Covid-19. But now it seems the Austrian brand is finally ready to launch its entry-level tourer.
    The company is currently formulating the pre-launch training process of the upcoming 250 Adventure. Although KTM has not officially revealed this upcoming motorcycle, from the leaked video and spy shots plenty of details can be obtained. Below is the leaked video from the dealer showcase event of KTM 250 Adventure in India, giving the first look at the upcoming motorcycle.
    [embedded content]
    Design
    From the images seen until now, it can be said that the 250 Adventure will be an amalgam of 250 Duke and 390 Adventure. Much of its design has been inspired by its elder sibling. However, it is expected to get the single-piece headlamp instead of the split headlamp setup in the new 390 Adventure. Also to keep the cost in check, it is expected to be a halogen unit although it could be equipped with LED DRLs.
    Features
    In KTM’s product portfolio, the 250 Adventure will be placed above 250 Duke at a premium of Rs 30,000-35,000. For this additional premium, the 250 Adventure will get KTM 390 Adventure-like styling and some extra features. This includes a TFT instrument cluster unlike the LCD unit present in its naked sibling.
    This unit will read out essential information but may miss out Bluetooth connectivity present in 390 Adventure. Since being an entry-level bike, the younger adventure tourer is also set to miss other features such as offroad ABS, traction control system, ride by wire and multiple riding modes.
    Mechanical Details
    The 250 Adventure will draw its power from the same 249cc liquid-cooled, single-cylinder engine which also powers its naked sibling. This unit is capable enough to produce 30 bhp at 9000rpm and 24 Nm of peak torque at 7500rpm. It will be paired with a six-speed gearbox assisted by a slipper clutch.
    Hardware used on the bike is expected to be the same as 390 Adventure which means it will be built on the same steel trellis frame. Suspension duties will be carried out by WP Apex 43 mm USD at front and mono-shock at rear. The 250 Adventure is expected to be priced around Rs 2.35 lakh (ex-showroom) which will be about Rs 65k lower than 390 Adventure. More

  • KTM RC200 New Colour Scheme Spied At Dealer Yard – Launch Soon

    With festive period nearing, KTM India is getting ready to launch a new colour scheme for RC 200
    If the KTM RC 200 is on your mind, customers can take delight in a new colour scheme. The ongoing festive season is a traditional period of heightened sales activity, and a new colour option, adds all the more spunk to the range, and thereby, sales.

    Already on dispatch from plant to reach dealerships, BS6 KTM RC 200 in new colour scheme has been spotted ahead of launch. BS6 KTM RC 200 was first launched in Jan 2020. Since then, it is being offered with a colour scheme which has plenty of black paint with orange graphics and orange wheels.
    In its new avatar, the tank and partial fairing is orange, and the remainder bits in black. Graphics are in grey and white combination. While orange wheels are a telltale KTM style, this one features an orange trellis frame, and black wheels.

    Engine Specs
    BS6 2020 RC 200 features a 199cc, single-cylinder engine that returns 24.6bhp and 19.2Nm, paired to a six-speed gearbox. The colour revision may also warrant a small price revision. This isn’t unexpected considering most manufacturers have used the last couple of weeks to introduce price revisions for a range of two wheelers. Not just the RC 200, but colour revisions are expected on RC 125 too.
    Sales
    KTM 200 range (Duke + RC) is the brand’s strongpoint, contributing to a lion’s share of sales in India. Only last month, sales fell shy of 3k units by a mere 8 units in the domestic market for the KTM 200. That’s a whopping 40 percent of total domestic sales. The 200 cc range also enjoys dominance in exports though exports did decline by 35 percent last month and fell to below 900 units, compared to a highpoint of 1,387 units a year earlier.
    Next Gen RC 200
    Next gen KTM RC 200
    While the current colour revision is something to look forward to, the company has already started road tests of the next-gen RC 200, which is likely to be launched in 2021. A business decision revision owing to Covid-19 pandemic, considering the bike was expected to get on the market in 2020 itself.
    Considering India’s importance for KTM both in terms of market size, and production, when launched, the next range bikes are most likely to show up here fast. Since the BS6 engine is already in play, it could be reworked to improve torque and power.
    Current RC 200 is available at a retail price of just below 2 lakhs. The latest play with colours is a common ploy at KTM. With the bikes already being popular, refreshing the colour range on a regular basis helps introduce newness, and keep a dialogue going. It goes without saying that KTM while revising colour schemes sticks to its core colour theme, and mostly resorts to reversing colour picks.
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  • 2021 KTM RC 125, 200 Spied Testing For The First Time – New Design

    The new RC 125 / 200 will continue to share most of its elements with its elder sibling- RC 390 which was spotted earlier
    It is a well-known fact that KTM has been developing the next-gen RC 390 for a long time now. It was expected to make its debut sometime this year but thanks to novel coronavirus, the Austrian bikemaker had to defer the plans. The fully-faired motorcycle was recently spotted with no wraps around, revealing several key details.

    Now we might have reason to believe that KTM might also be developing a younger sibling to RC 390- the RC 200 and RC 125. A string of new spy shots has surfaced online which supports our claim. Given that the images show a full-faired bike, it is given that it will belong to the RC range.
    How is different from the recently spotted RC 390?
    The question arises though how is it the RC 200 or RC 125, and not the keenly anticipated RC 390? The overall silhouette of the bike seen is similar to RC 390. The dressing, the extended rear horizontal fender, headlight and taillight design, all seem identical to the ones present on the faired monster from the Austrians. The bike in pictures was given an all-black colour scheme which makes it difficult to spot the intricate details while racing along.

    However, there are certain differences to this bike that support our claim. Firstly, the headlamp is a halogen one, not an LED setup, as seen on the RC 390. Also, the side-mounted single exhaust has been replaced by an underbelly unit. These are clear signs of a little cost-cutting done which is usually done for lower specced models to keep the price in check.
    Like its predecessor, the new-gen RC 125 and 200 is likely to share most of its components with its elder sibling. This includes larger front disc brakes, LED turn indicators and an updated fairing that houses a reconfigured headlamp with integrated LED DRLs to name a few.
    It is expected to utilise a new rear subframe. Just like the RC 390, the discs are attached to the wheel-spokes instead of the hub. What we can gather form these images is that the updated ergonomics is likely to suit taller riders.

    Powertrain
    In terms of powertrain, the new RC 200 and 125 are likely to employ the current BS6 compliant single cylinder motors, but with likely improvements in power and torque figures. The six-speed gearbox is also likely to be retained. Other mechanical specifications are also likely to be carried forward, with improvements. Since it will be manufactured by Bajaj Auto in India for the world, it is expected to hit local showrooms in India first. More

  • Royal Enfield Meteor 350 Engine Specs Leak – Power increases, Torque decreases

    The Royal Enfield Meteor 350 will employ a new 350cc motor under the ‘UCE350’ range – Likely mated to 5-speed transmission unit
    Motorcycle enthusiasts have been eagerly and patiently waiting for the Meteor 350 for a very long time. Sources tell us that the launch is expected to take place on 22nd Sep. Ahead of launch, Youtube Channel Rider Lal has managed to reveal interesting new details about the motorcycle.
    Engine

    Meteor 350 will replace the Thunderbird 350 and Thunderbird 350X in the Chennai-based bike maker’s portfolio. The motorcycle is built upon a completely new platform codenamed ‘J1D’. Meteor will be the first of the new ‘UCE350’ range which will employ a completely new 350cc air-cooled motor which is set to be more efficient. The new generation Classic 350 is also being developed under this range.
    As per the leaked image, this new BS6 350cc engine of Meteor 350 will deliver 20.2 bhp and 27 Nm of torque. This when compared to the existing BS6 350cc engine of Classic 350, is about 0.4 bhp more, but 1 Nm less. Current Classic 350 BS6 which is on sale in India, delivers 19.8 bhp and 28 Nm torque. Do note that the current Classic 350 UCE engine is based on the older push-rod tech, while the new Meteor 350 UCE engine is based on the SOHC setup.
    Royal Enfield Meteor 350 Engine Specs
    Speaking about transmission, it is most likely a 5 speed unit. The leaked image states that the new transmission offers smooth gear shifts. Just like the engine, the clutch and transmission system is also newly developed. It has less number of parts and linkages – resulting in better clutch life and reduced friction.
    Variants & Features
    From the images leaked earlier, we know that Meteor 350 will be available in three variants- Fireball, Stellar and Supernova. Each variant will feature its unique set of components which distinguish them apart. The base Fireball trim will feature a coloured rim tape, body graphics with decals, single colour fuel tank and blacked-out components.

    The mid-spec Stellar variant will sport chrome finish on handlebars, premium badges, body-coloured components and a backrest for the pillion. On the hand, the top-end, Supernova trim will offer a premium seat upholstery, machined alloy wheels, chrome on indicators, a dual-tone colour scheme and a windscreen. Also, standard features such as inbuilt turn-by-turn navigation called ‘Tripper Navigation’ and semi-digital twin-pod instrument cluster will be offered across the range.
    Meteor 350 will be the most feature loaded RE motorcycle ever. Other features include bluetooth enabled turn by turn navigation system, USB charger for charging your devices on the go.
    Royal Enfield Meteor 350 Riding Stance
    Along with the actual motorcycle, miniature scale models will also go on sale later this month, as official merchandise. Leaked images give a clear visual understanding as to how the bike would actually look like. There will be a total of seven colours on offer across the range- Fireball Red, Fireball Yellow, Stellar Matte Black, Stellar Red Metallic, Stellar Blue Metallic, Supernova Blue dual-tone, Supernova Brown dual-tone.
    Royal Enfield will be using Ceat / Ace tyres for Meteor 350. The front and rear tyres will measure 100/90-19 and 140/70-17, respectively. Fuel tank capacity is 15 liters. Prices of the bike are expected to start from around Rs 1.65 lakh (ex-showroom). More