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    Electric Car Owner Requests Company To Take The EV Back

    Tata Nexon EV ownerProspective EV buyers in India should thoroughly research use cases and expectations from their new electric car before falling head-first into EV realmWoes of EV owners in India are rising. This is not just limited to Nexon EV or any of Tata Motors’ electric vehicles. It is the state of EVs in India that is relatively young for electric powertrains and necessary charging infrastructure. A Tata Nexon EV owner named Carmelita Fernandes took to social media recently and expressed grievances regarding her electric vehicle.She explained on Twitter what kind of a nightmare her experience with her Nexon EV was. Fed up with Tata Motors’ service, she asked the company to “take her car back” as a last resort. But, what made this Nexon EV owner say this? Let’s take a look.Nexon EV Owner Says Please Take My Car BackBecause Tata is the largest EV manufacturer in India, cases like this relating to it are more common. It is like Maruti Suzuki car crashes are more because it sells more cars, to begin with. It is all about probability. Most of what we say in this post holds good for EVs in general.Carmelita Fernandes took to social media to express grievances regarding her Nexon EV. In a Twitter post, she explained how she had multiple issues with her Nexon EV. She mentioned two trips from Mumbai to Pune. The distance between Chhatrapati Shivaji International Airport to Pune is around 160 km.Tata Nexon EV ownerOn a full charge, Nexon EV Prime promises a range of 312 km. That said, Lonavala ghats eat into the battery significantly while climbing inclines and the same amount of lost extra energy is not recuperated in declines. Topping up in Pune becomes mandatory. But India’s charging infrastructure is still in its infant stage and charging stations often don’t work as expected.Carmelita Fernandes claims charging stations at Turbhe and Food Mall didn’t work at all. She had battery issues too which Rudra Motors in Wagholi, Pune, replaced under warranty. Carmelita also claims that Tata’s ZConnect Support didn’t provide any support and the company’s toll-free number 18008332233 doesn’t work at all.State of EVs in India in May 2023Even though electric car sales touched 5,000+ units monthly mark, corresponding charging infrastructure growth is still very meek. So, the prospect of an EV in India has still not expanded beyond the tier 1 or tier 2 city limits (in most cases). For intercity commutes and long drives, owners should thoroughly plan the trip ahead.Automotive enthusiasts reacting to the postEven though one has planned out a route and personally telephoned all charging stations for working confirmation, there is no guarantee that they will work when you arrive with a minimal state of charge. Maybe the weather is bad or the charging station just wouldn’t budge. My luck would never allow such a close call and will always keep me stranded (sad life).Even if you can afford a long-range EV among the 28 electric cars on sale in India, you’re still limited by lack of a robust charging infrastructure. We would advise a prospective EV buyer in India mid-2023 to thoroughly research the use cases of their new electric car. If your daily commute involves city driving and an occasional long drive within a 100 km radius for recreation, go for it.If your EV is a second or a third car, go for it. Or else, ICE vehicles still pose great value. PHEVs with traditional parallel hybrid architecture are the best bet for emerging markets like India. A small manually rechargeable battery and a motor for short commutes along with an IC engine for the longer routes. None of the mainstream hybrids in India currently offer plug-in functionality. More

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    Tata Punch Electric Spied On Towing Truck – Interiors Leak

    Tata Punch Electric Spied. Images – PhotulogyUpon launch, Punch Electric will rival the likes of Citroen eC3 and recently launched MG Comet EVWith new rivals in entry-level EV segment, Tata Motors is looking to spruce up its EV portfolio. The strategy to launch electric versions of existing popular ICE models has paid rich dividends for the company. After Nexon, Tiago and Tigor, the next to get the EV version is Tata Punch.Tata’s primary volume generators have been Nexon and Punch. While Nexon has crossed the 5-lakh production milestone, Punch recently achieved the 2-lakh production milestone. With Punch’s soaring popularity, it seems the right time to introduce its electric version. Punch will also be getting a CNG option soon.Tata Punch Electric SpiedPunch Electric spotted – Same exterior profilePunch Electric has been spotted on a tow truck. The tight-fitting camouflage reveals that Punch EV has the same exterior profile as the ICE-based Punch. Even the alloy wheels are the same as ICE Punch.Changes at the front are not needed, as Punch Electric is likely to have the charging port at the same spot where the ICE version has the fuel tank lid. This has been the case with Nexon EV and Tiago EV as well. This setup probably helps reduce the number of changes required to convert an ICE-based car into an electric car.Tata Punch Electric SpiedHowever, Punch electric could get some new features. For example, the test mule can be seen with rear disc brakes. In comparison, ICE Punch is offered with front disc and rear drum brakes. Interiors reveal the presence of a rotary dial, indicating that the EV could get an electronic parking brake. This feature is already available with Nexon EV Max. The electronic parking brake functions automatically and it can also be engaged and disengaged manually.Tata Punch Electric SpiedOther features on the inside appear to be the same as ICE Punch. The electric version can be seen with a floating 7-inch touchscreen infotainment system, which is likely to be from Harman and come with Android Auto and Apple CarPlay. Other features similar to ICE Punch include a 7-inch TFT instrument cluster, automatic climate control, flat bottom steering wheel and premium upholstery.Safety features for Punch Electric will be largely the same as its ICE sibling. Some of the key safety equipment offered with Punch includes reverse parking camera, front fog lamps with cornering function, auto headlamps, rain sensing wipers, ABS and EBD with brake sway control and rear defogger.Tata Punch Electric SpiedPunch Electric rangeWhile official details are not available, Punch Electric could have a range of around 300 km. For reference, Tiago EV is available in two variants, one with 250 km range and the other with 315 km range. Recently launched MG Comet EV has range of 230 km whereas Citroen eC3 offers 320 km. Punch Electric is likely to get drive modes of Eco, City and Sport. Battery packs could be similar to those used with Tiago EV.Image Source More

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    Tata vs MG Electric Cars: An Advertising War for Your Attention

    Tata vs MGTata vs. MG: The Electric Car War of Words – Advertisement Get Creative – Join the Debate
    The advertising war between auto manufacturers is an interesting phenomenon that has been going on for years. In this case, we have jabs being traded over 2 respective electric vehicles.
    What started as a single image shared by a Tata dealership on Facebook, has taken on a life of its own during the course of the day. The launch of the MG Comet micro EV has sparked a new advertising war. And it keeps the focus on electric cars. The marketing messages used on behalf of both companies reflect the growing conversations around electric vehicles, and the need to distinguish oneself in the marketplace.
    Tata and MG: A Battle of Electric Proportions
    “Own a car vs not a cartoon,” was the first find of the day. Highlighting the practicality of their electric cars. The word “car” suggests that Tata is offering a legitimate mode of transportation, while the word “cartoon” implies that the MG Comet is not a serious option. It likely plays on notions of being a more serious choice, as opposed to a quirky and playful vehicle like the MG Comet. Aka cartoon in this instance.
    In response, the ongoing banter now positions the Comet as a new, modern, and technologically advanced option with their messaging “Ice age vs new age.” The word “ice age” suggests that Tata’s cars are outdated and old-fashioned, while “new age” implies that MG’s cars are futuristic and cutting-edge. MG is targeting customers who are looking for a stylish and cool car that stands out from the crowd. It positions MG Comet EV as a modern and forward-thinking option. It’s a clever play on words that plays on the idea of a technological revolution from the Ice Age to the New Age.
    Tata vs MG
    Electric Car Advertising 101: Tata and MG Get Competitive
    The messaging “Old school vs new cool” is a further attempt to position MG Comet as a modern and trendy car. The word “old school” could suggest that Tata’s cars are traditional, outdated, and reminiscent of the past, while “new cool” implies that MG’s cars are modern and fashionable. And thereby targeting customers who are looking for a car that reflects their personality and sense of style.
    The notion “taxi or tech” is another dig at Tata, suggesting that their cars are only good for commercial use, while MG’s cars are high-tech and trendy. Probably to click with those who want a car that is not only functional but also represents their lifestyle and values.
    Tata’s Taxi Cars vs. MG’s Sexy EVs: Electric Car Marketing Heats Up
    Finally, “say tata to taxi vs drive something sexy” sounds a bit more like a direct challenge to Tata’s brand image. The word “taxi” suggests that Tata’s cars are taxis / cabs, while “sexy” implies that MG’s cars are sleek, stylish, and desirable.
    These marketing messages are all about positioning respective brands in trying to distinguish themselves, and capture a share of the growing electric car market. If you are in the market for an electric car, take a test drive, weigh your options, and make an informed decision that suits your lifestyle and values. More

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    EV Blocks The Way – Electric Car And Gearbox: Myth Or Reality?

    The gearbox of my Nexon EV Max has suddenly stopped working – Electric Car Gearboxes: What You Need to KnowEV got stuck – Blocking the way. Image – Akash BhangreThe positioning of an immobile car is a part of the intrigue of this viral post we saw. While someone drew a parallel to the Ever Given situation, what caught our attention were queries regarding the gearbox in electric cars. Does an EV have a gearbox? Do electric cars have/need transmissions? Gear box in EV? EV with gearbox? You get the gist.Akash Bhangre’s situation as mentioned on Twitter, “The gearbox of my Nexon EV Max has suddenly stopped working and the car is currently stuck in this position blocking the whole lane. This has created a big scene in my society. ‘I am located in Thane. I have contacted Tata Motors helpline and they are sending a towing car from Wadala. The wait time for the same is 1.5Hours as per the towing car vendor. Why can’t you send someone from Thane, Mulund or some other nearby location. I need your urgent help here.”Tata Nexon EV got stuck – Blocking the wayTo Gear or Not to Gear: The Evolution of Electric Car TransmissionElectric cars generally do not have transmission in the traditional sense. This is because the electric motor can provide power directly to the wheels without the need for a complex system of gears. Instead, electric cars typically use a single-speed or fixed-gear transmission that is optimized for a specific speed range.This type of transmission is less complex than the multi-speed transmissions found in petrol / diesel powered cars. In turn, this can reduce maintenance costs and increase efficiency.Tata Nexon EV got stuck – Blocking the wayThe Gearbox Conundrum: What happens when it stops working in an EV?The gearbox of an electric car can suddenly stop working due to a variety of reasons. Modern electric cars rely heavily on electrical and software components. And a failure in these systems can cause the gearbox to stop working.Electric motors generate a lot of heat during operation, and if the gearbox is not adequately cooled, it can overheat and fail. Moreover, the gearbox in an electric car can wear out over time due to regular use, just like any mechanical component, and this can cause it to stop working.Gearbox Failure in Electric Cars: Causes and ConsequencesIf the gearbox of an electric car suddenly stops working, the car will likely become immobile or have difficulty moving. Symptoms such as difficulty in changing gears, strange noises, or the car not moving at all may be experienced. To address the issue promptly and ensure safety and longevity of the vehicle, it’s best to take the electric car to a certified repair shop or dealer to have it diagnosed and repaired. Depending on extent of damage, repair could be as simple as a software update or as complex as a full gearbox replacement.Electric cars are generally reliable and have fewer moving parts than traditional cars. But they are still complex machines that require regular maintenance and care. Regular servicing and keeping an eye out for any unusual noises or performance issues can help catch potential problems before they become more severe. More

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    Tata, Uber Sign Largest EV Fleet Order – 25k Tigor XPRES-T Electric

    Collaboration between Tata Motors and Uber will be beneficial for Uber customers and drivers, and the environmentTata, Uber Sign Largest EV Fleet OrderTimes are ripe for a monumental shift in the ride-sharing industry. Tata Motors and Uber join forces to bring 25,000 Tigor XPRES-T EVs to India’s bustling cities. It is the largest four wheeler EV fleet order placed till date. This strategic move is set to transform market trends and developments in the automobile industry. And drive India towards a cleaner, greener future.Tata Motors, is a pioneer of India’s EV evolution, and Uber is India’s leading ridesharing app. The MoU paves the way to electrify their services in Delhi NCR, Mumbai, Kolkata, Chennai, Hyderabad, Bengaluru, and Ahmedabad.The signing of this Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) marks a significant milestone, emphasizing the importance of eco-friendliness and sustainability. As per the MOU, Tata Motors will begin delivering the cars to Uber fleet partners in a phased manner, starting this month. XPRES-T EVs will be inducted into Uber India’s Premium Category service.Impact of collaboration between Tata Motors and Uber on the fleet industry in IndiaThis collaboration is a prime example of how businesses are evolving with the market trends. All the while adapting to changing consumer and environmental needs. There is now an increasing concern for the environment, alongside the pressing need to reduce carbon emissions. It’s only logical that businesses like Tata Motors and Uber are stepping up to the challenge. It also sets an example for opportunities that exist in embracing sustainable practices.As industry experts predict a surge in the demand for electric vehicles in the coming years, the future of transportation in India is being reshaped. Collaboration and innovation is key in driving positive change in the business world.Tata Motors – Drive India towards a cleaner, greener futureWith over 50,000 Tata EVs already on the road, Tata has a lead in PV and fleet segments. XPRES-T EV is available in two drive range options – 315km and 277km. The car is powered by a high-energy density battery of 26kWh and 25.5 kWh. With fast charging, they can be charged from 0-80 percent in 59 minutes and 110 minutes. And this is key for fleets. Quick-charging ensures more billable hours and reduced deda time spent waiting for fleet vehicles to be charged daily. Tigor XPRES-T electric sedan comes with zero tail-pipe emissions, and single-speed automatic transmission. Safety is addressed with dual airbags, and ABS with EBD as standard across all variants.Uber is a key participant in the bandwagon towards e-mobility, committing to 100 percent of its rides taking place in zero-emission vehicles, on public transit, or with micro-mobility by 2040. This shows a growing trend towards sustainable and environmentally-friendly transportation, driven by both consumers and businesses. And fleet operators are constantly looking for a reliable, cost-effective, and eco-friendly option. Efforts towards electrification need to be timely in order to be beneficial.Environmentally friendly EV ride experiencesShailesh Chandra, MD, Tata Motors Passenger Vehicles and Tata Passenger Electric Mobility said, “In line with our commitment to grow sustainable mobility in the country, we are delighted to partner with Uber, India’s leading ridesharing platform. Offering customers our environmentally friendly EV ride experiences via Uber’s Premium Category service, will accelerate the adoption of green and clean personal ride sharing. The XPRES-T EV is a very attractive option both for customers and operators. While enhanced safety, silent and premium in cabin experience provides the customers with a relaxed ride, the fast charging solution, driving comfort and the cost effectiveness of the EV makes it an attractive business proposition for our fleet partners. This partnership will further cement our market position in the fleet segment.” More

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    Tata Harrier EV Launch In 2024 – Mahindra XUV800 Electric Rival

    New Tata Harrier EV will launch with around 60 to 80 kWh battery and AWD setupTata Harrier EVLast year, spy shots of Tata Safari wearing green number plates had surfaced on the internet. It was believed to be of electric Tata Safari test mule. That was the first hint that Tata Motors was working on electrifying the Harrier / Safari platform.Tata Motors is the leading electric car maker in India. Until now, they did not have any real competition. But with Mahindra launching XUV400, and revealing XUV800 Electric concept, Tata Motors had to make a move. It was just a matter of time before Tata announced a rival to the upcoming XUV800 (XUV700 electric version). And that happened at the 2023 Auto Expo when they unveiled the Harrier EV concept.New Tata harrier EV LaunchSpeaking about the Harrier EV, most of the sheet metal is kept identical to Harrier diesel. What has changed is the front fascia. Regular grille is now replaced with a closed one as it doesn’t need much air intake. This new closed grille has horizontal slats creating an interesting pattern.Below it, there are numerous vertical slats forming a bottom grille used for air circulation and cooling batteries. Front parking sensors are present too. Biggest change – as opposed to ICE Harrier is a triangular headlight design looking sleek and modern. LED DRLs are positioned on top of headlights and are slimmer than outgoing Harrier.Tata Harrier EVTata seems to have taken a lot of inspiration from Hyundai where alloy wheel designs are concerned. Harrier EV dons alloy wheels looking very similar to that of Hyundai Alcazar’s. There is a subtle EV badge on the bottom of the front doors. At the back, LED elements inside its taillight are revised and are now connected with a wide LED bar.On the inside, there are some new additions expected. Mainly, a larger 10.25” touchscreen system. This is the same horizontal unit with a slicker user interface as found on Altroz Racer. This screen is likely to replace the aging 7” display with an uninspiring user interface seen on the current Altroz and Nexon.Specs & PowertrainHarrier EV will feature Gen II EV architecture, a generation above Gen I that currently does duties in Nexon EV. Battery pack is expected to be in the region of 60 kWh to 80 kWh, delivering a range of about 500 kms on full charge. Tata Harrier electric price could start from about Rs 35 lakh, ex-sh.Upon launch in 2024, Harrier EV will take on the Mahindra XU800 electric SUV. A working prototype of the same was revealed in Aug last year. Launch of Mahindra XUV800 is also expected in 2024. Both SUVs will come with similar battery range offering a dual motor setup with AWD along the way. More

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    2023 Tata Sierra Electric SUV Debuts As Pre-Production Concept

    Tata Motors is developing Sierra electric SUV with AWD capabilities which will be underpinned by the Sigma platform2023 Tata Sierra Electric SUVBy unveiling two future electric vehicle (EV) concepts last year, Tata Motors has made its intentions very clear. The homegrown automobile giant has put its foot down on the throttle and accelerated towards a revolutionary change. The company is already the largest EV manufacturer in the passenger vehicle market in India.More importantly, the carmaker intends to occupy the top spot in future as well and hence is working round the clock to ensure that it offers a wide range of products in the EV space. One of the most awaited EVs from Tata Motors is Sierra which will bring a very popular car moniker back into the Indian market. Today, at the 2023 Auto Expo, Tata Motors has revealed a pre-production concept of the Sierra Electric SUV, along with Harrier EV.2023 Tata Sierra Electric SUVBack in the 1990s, Sierra was one of the most reliable SUVs in the country with 4×4 capabilities. Despite being long gone, the brand name is still remembered by fans. Tata Motors had unveiled a concept model of Sierra back at the last edition of Auto Expo in 2020. In 2020, the company gave its nod to bringing back the Sierra nameplate as a pure EV offering. And now, in 2023, we get to see an updated avatar of the same.Shailesh Chandra, Managing Director, Tata Motors Passenger Vehicles Ltd., and Tata Passenger Electric Mobility Ltd., had revealed that the company intends to add an electric SUV with all-wheel-drive capabilities to its lineup. The brand has essentially ruled out the possibility of a 4×4 drivetrain in an ICE car, hence, the next EV offering could be an SUV fulfilling this criterion.2023 Tata Sierra Electric SUVTo Be Based On Sigma EV PlatformLast year, Tata Motors unveiled its very ambitious Curvv Concept that is based on the Gen 2 platform. This architecture can host a wide range of powertrains including battery and IC engine-powered setup along with multiple drivetrain options. Officially named Sigma, this architecture is based on the X4 or ALFA platform of Altroz and Punch.It has been heavily re-engineered around a battery pack to avoid any compromises and to optimise packaging. In order to do so, the ALFA platform needs to undergo several modifications including deletion of the transmission tunnel, updates to the fuel tank area and side members being pushed to the sides to clear up space.Sierra EV: Expected LaunchThese updates are also likely to make the Sigma platform lighter, more energy efficient and more spacious than ICE platform-based EVs like Nexon EV and Tigor EV. As far as Sierra EV is concerned, the electric SUV is currently under development and it won’t likely make its debut in production form until 2025. It is part of Tata’s plans of developing as many as six new EVs in the next few years.2023 Tata Sierra Electric SUVUnlike the 2020 concept of Sierra, which had 3 doors, the production-spec Sierra EV will feature a conventional five-door layout. 2023 Sierra seen here, features 5 door layout. More electric SUVs are expected to roll out of Tata’s assembly line in future underpinned by both Gen 2 and Gen 3 platforms. More

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    Tata Harrier Electric SUV Debuts At 2023 Auto Expo – Gets AWD

    With new rivals expected on the scene in 2023 and beyond, Tata Motors is busy ramping up its EV portfolioTata Harrier Electric SUVWhile Tata Motors currently enjoys market share of more than 80% in EV segment, competition is expected to increase significantly in coming years. To ensure it continues to hold strong, Tata is lining up several new EVs. These will be showcased at 2023 Auto Expo.Tata upcoming EVs that have high potential to emerge as bestsellers include Harrier Electric and Safari Electric. Of the two, at the Auto Expo 2023, Tata Motors has showcased Harrier EV as well as Sierra EV. Other Tata EVs that are showcased at Auto Expo include Curvv electric concept and Avinya born-electric car.Tata Harrier Electric SUVTata Harrier electric will be targeting a range of around 400-450 km. Battery capacity could be around 60 kWh whereas power and torque output is expected to be close to 200 PS and 400 Nm. 0 to 100 kmph could be achievable in under 10 seconds. The focus will be on improving performance to make it better than the existing ICE-based Harrier and Safari.Some of the tech features could be borrowed from Nexon EV, for example, multi-mode regen. Based on their driving style and traffic conditions, users can choose from four pre-set levels of regenerative braking. Regen is one of the key equipment that helps boost range. The battery pack and motor will be IP67 rated and powered by state-of-the-art Ziptron technology.Tata Harrier Electric SUVMulti-drive modes are likely to be available with Harrier electric. Users will be able to choose if they want to extend range or have an exhilarating, full power ride. Drive mode options could be similar to Nexon EV that has Eco, City and Sport modes. Another feature that is expected is an electronic parking brake. Harrier Electric comes in AWD system.Charging options could be similar to Nexon EV, albeit in higher capacity. There will be the standard home charger that could be connected to any 15A socket, a fast charger option and DC fast charging stations. Battery and motor warranty could be similar to Tata Nexon EV that offers 8 years / 1.60 lakh km, whichever is earlier.Harrier electric featuresWhile the core silhouette will be largely the same as current model, electric version of Harrier gets some unique styling bits. It is seen in all white colour. In the front is a LED strip with an illuminated Tata Motors logo. Changes introduced are to achieve improved aerodynamics. It will help boost range and also achieve a sensuous profile for the SUV. Some exclusive colour options are likely to be introduced for Harrier electric upon launch.Tata Harrier Electric SUVInside, much of the equipment list will be largely the same as available with current models. Some key features include panoramic sunroof, wireless Android Auto and Apple CarPlay, ventilated driver and co-driver seats, premium speaker system, air purifier and wireless charger. Connected car tech iRA will be available as well. Harrier electric SUV could get a larger touchscreen infotainment system, in line with industry trends. More