More stories

  • in

    BYD Seal EV Launched At Rs. 41 Lakh – Costs Less Than Toyota Camry Hybrid

    BYD Seal EV Launched In IndiaSome of the USPs of BYD Seal all-electric sedan include its gorgeous profile and a comprehensive range of advanced featuresAs the EV segment in India gains momentum, BYD has added more options for its customers. Towards that end, the BYD Seal electric sedan has been launched in India. BYD’s current portfolio includes the Atto 3 SUV and e6 MPV, along with Seal. Bookings for the same had been open for some time at a nominal price of Rs. 1.25 lakh.BYD Seal specs, range, performanceThe BYD Seal electric sedan is available across multiple international markets including Europe. In India, there are three variants – Dynamic, Premium and Performance. Prices for BYD Seal starts from Rs. 41 Lakh for Dynamic, Rs. 45.55 lakh for mid-spec Premium and Rs. 53 lakh (all prices ex-sh) for top-spec Performance variant.While the first two variants are RWD, Performance gets dual motors with AWD layout. Base Dynamic gets a 61.4 kWh battery pack with 510 km range and the other two get a larger 82.5 kWh unit. Because Premium is RWD only, it gets the best-case-scenario range at 650 km, while Performance is claimed to go 580 km on a single charge, as per CLTC standards.Top-spec Performance AWD variant of BYD Seal generates a combined output of 530 PS and 670 Nm. Top speed is limited to 180 km/h and 0 to 100 km/h can be achieved in just 3.8 seconds. BYD Seal AWD variant supports DC fast charging of up to 150 kW. BYD is offering a 7kW home charger with installation, 3kW portable charger, 6 year RSA among other benefits.Charging from 10% to 80% takes 37 minutes, whereas 30% to 80% can be achieved in 26 minutes. BYD Seal has Vehicle-to-Load (V2L) capability that can be used to charge various tools and equipment. Seal EV is a Toyota Camry-size vehicle and undercuts Camry too, which is only a hybrid-ICE vehicle with FWD as standard.BYD Seal dimensions, featuresUsers can expect a dynamic road presence with BYD Seal measuring 4,800 mm in length. The sedan is 1,875mm wide, 1,460mm tall and has a wheelbase of 2,920 mm. There’s ample storage with a 400-litre boot and a front boot with 53-litre space. The sedan has kerb weight of close to 2.2 tons.BYD Seal has a drag coefficient (Cd) of 0.219, one of the lowest in the world. For reference, the Tesla Model S has a drag coefficient of 0.208. In addition to increasing range, the low drag coefficient also helps achieve a gorgeous profile for the sedan.BYD Seal EV ProfileBYD Seal promises a luxurious experience with leather-wrapped interiors and heated, ventilated seats. Other highlights include a panoramic sunroof, a 15.6-inch electrically rotatable touchscreen, a 10.25-inch TFT full LCD instrument panel, head-up display, voice commands and wireless smartphone charging.Safety kit includes a comprehensive range of ADAS features. The sedan also comes with the assurance of 5-star Euro NCAP crash test rating. 8-year or 1,60,000 km warranty on battery, 8 year or 1,50,000 km warranty on motor and controller along with 6 year or 1,50,000 km warranty on DC-DC assembly, OBC and high-voltage electric control offer peace of mind for buyers. More

  • in

    BYD Seal EV Bookings Open In India – Free EURO 2024 Match Ticket Offer

    BYD Seal Electric IndiaBYD India has opened bookings for their upcoming new Seal EV – Free Euro 2024 Match Ticket and return flight for few lucky buyersIt may be recalled that BYD Seal, an all-electric sedan, was showcased at the 2023 Auto Expo last year. It is now time for this new electric vehicle to mark its entry into India and launch date is set for 5th March 2024. It will be the company’s third product to launch in India after the BYD Atto 3 and BYD e6. Ahead of launch, BYD India has now opened official bookings and also announced an exciting offer.Book BYD Seal and get a chance to watch EURO 2024 MatchOne month ago, BYD officially became the Official Partner and Official E-Mobility Partner for the UEFA European Football Championship 2024 (UEFA EURO 2024). Thanks to this, those who book the BYD SEAL before April 30th, 2024, will stand a chance to receive a complimentary UEFA match ticket and a round-trip flight ticket from India to the designated match city.BYD Seal sedanThe new Seal sedan will be brought in as a CBU and assembled at the company plant in Chennai. It will borrow some design elements from the Ocean X concept with “ocean aesthetics” design language and ocean-themed nomenclature. This 4 door, 5 seater sedan gets LED headlamps, bumper mounted boomerang-shaped LED daytime running lights and full width connected LED tail lamps.It also sports a fixed glass roof and flush fitted door handles as a part of its exterior arrangement. In terms of dimensions, the new Seal EV will measure 4,800 mm in length, 1875mm in width and 1460 mm in height with a 50:50 weight distribution and a wheelbase of 2,920 mm.BYD Seal Electric dashboardIts interiors will sport a large number of driver and passenger comforts the most prominent of which will be a 15.6 inch rotatable touchscreen infotainment system and a large 10.25 inch digital display unit, It also gets climate controls, central AC vents with drive selector, a heated windscreen, volume controls for audio system and two wireless charging pads.BYD Seal EV Bookings Open In IndiaBYD Seal, having scored a 5 Star Rating at Euro NCAP, will come into India with a long list of safety equipment. It will come in with advanced driver assistance systems (ADAS), with autonomous emergency braking system, lane support, and speed detection systems along with adaptive cruise control, lane departure warning and collision avoidance assist.BYD Seal – Battery Options, Claimed RangeIn India, the new BYD Seal will come in with an 82.5 kWh battery pack offering rear wheel drive. It claims a range of 570 kms on the WLTP cycle. It also gets a permanent magnet synchronous motor positioned on the rear axle offering 230 hp power and 360 Nm torque. Acceleration from 0-100 km/h is achieved in 5.9 seconds. Charging is via a regular 11 kW AC charger allowing the new BYD Seal to be charged upto 100 percent in 8.6 hours. It can also be charged via 150 kW charger, wherein 10-80 percent charge is achieved in 37 minutes.With an expected price at around Rs 50 lakh (ex-showroom), the new BYD Seal could find itself taking on the Hyundai Ioniq 5 (priced at Rs 45.95 lakh) besides the Kia EV6 and Volvo C40 Recharge. In that price range, it will also compete with the BMW i4 in the electric segment and with ICE powered models such as Mercedes GLB and the Audi Q5. More

  • in

    2024 Bajaj Pulsar NS 200 Arrives At Dealer Showroom – First Look Walkaround

    2024 Bajaj Pulsar NS 2002024 Bajaj Pulsar NS200 and NS160: Enhanced Features and Design Updates for a Competitive EdgeBajaj, a renowned name in the two-wheeler industry, captured the attention of the motorcycling community with the launch of the Pulsar NS200 back in 2012. Surprisingly, after almost twelve years, the allure of the Pulsar NS series remains strong and resilient.2024 Bajaj Pulsar NS200 Arrives At ShowroomIn response to evolving standards, Bajaj has infused new life into the series with subtle upgrades, presenting the 2024 Bajaj Pulsar NS200 and NS160 with a host of improved features. The new Pulsar NS 200 has now arrived at the dealer showroom. Thanks to Sameer Vlogs, we now have a detailed first look walkround of the new P200 NS.2024 Bajaj Pulsar NS 200Contrary to the notion that only retro or classic bikes maintain their charm, the Pulsar NS range defies this stereotype. The motorcycle’s muscular appeal received a boost with the introduction of USD front forks last year. The design, aging gracefully, has now undergone a mild refresh in 2024, showcasing a new face and instrument cluster that align with contemporary customer preferences.2024 updated models offer enhanced features at a slightly increased cost compared to their pre-facelift counterparts. The Pulsar NS160 competes primarily with the TVS Apache RTR 160 4V, Yamaha FZ, and Honda SP160, while the Pulsar NS200 faces off against the TVS Apache RTR 200 4V and Honda Hornet 2.0. Bajaj aims to strengthen the sales performance of both the Pulsar NS200 and NS160 with the refreshed design and feature-rich offerings.[embedded content]Notable Changes in the 2024 ModelTwelve years post its debut, the Pulsar NS receives a design update that retains its overall silhouette while adding a modern touch. The key changes include a new LED headlight, LED DRLs, and LED turn indicators. The redesigned DRLs exude a more prominent and dynamic appearance, reminiscent of a predator’s strong jawbone.The instrument cluster has undergone a significant transformation, now being fully digital. Unlike Bajaj’s recent launches with Bluetooth connectivity, the 2024 Pulsar NS200 and NS160 come equipped with turn-by-turn navigation—a first for Bajaj motorcycles. Additional features include a new button on the left handlebar switchgear and two buttons below the instrument screen for cycling through various functions.Mechanically, both the Pulsar NS200 and NS160 retain their pre-facelift specifications. The NS200 boasts a KTM-derived 199.5cc single-cylinder SOHC 4V, triple spark liquid-cooled engine with 24 bhp and 18.74 Nm, paired with a 6-speed gearbox.The motorcycles share identical cycle parts, including USD telescopic front forks, rear nitrox mono-shock setup, 300mm front disc, 230 mm rear disc, optional dual-channel ABS, 100/80-17 front tyre and 130/70-17 rear tyre, sporty clip-on handlebars, 12L fuel tank, and more—all mounted on a sturdy perimeter frame. Official launch is expected soon, which is when the ex-sh prices will be revealed. More

  • in

    Honda CB350X ADV Renders Based On Leaked Sketch – Africa Twin Colours

    Honda CB350X ADV RenderHonda is working on a new adventure motorcycle based on the CB350 – Based on the leaked patent sketch, here is a digital renderRenowned Japanese automaker, Honda, continues to make waves in India’s motorcycle market, particularly with its dominance in scooters and commuter motorcycles. Seeking to expand its premium single-cylinder portfolio, Honda is rumoured to be working on a new adventure motorcycle, based on the CB350. Say Namaste to Honda CB350X ADV Render.Honda CB350X ADV RenderedRecent design patents from Honda showcase an adventure bike and a scrambler, both based on the CB350 platform, sparking anticipation for their potential launch in India. Pratyush Rout has visualized the Honda CB350X ADV based on these leaked designs, presenting a rendering that draws comparisons to the Royal Enfield Himalayan.Honda CB350 ADV Design Sketch Patent LeaksWhile some critics may point out similarities with Royal Enfield designs, the render features a purposeful and robust ADV/tourer motorcycle based on leaked design elements. The design includes a muscular fuel tank with tank shrouds, a circular LED headlight similar to the CB350 series, a tall windscreen, knuckle protectors on the handlebar, and a distinctive front beak. Colour themes are based on Honda’s flagship ADV, the Africa Twin.Honda CB350 ADV boasts a spacious rider’s seat and a stepped, split pillion seat, accompanied by a grab rail that doubles as an integrated luggage rack. The up-swept exhaust can, potentially identical to the standard CB350, complements the overall design. The tail light and rear turn indicators may also share similarities with the CB350 RS.Honda CB350X ADV RenderStrategic Market PositioningHonda’s foray into the single-cylinder adventure bike segment aims to capitalize on the current trend, competing with models like the Royal Enfield Himalayan, Triumph Scrambler 400X, BMW G 310 GS, KTM 390 Adventure, and Yezdi Adventure. Rather than leveraging the CB300R platform, Honda takes a unique approach by basing its offering on the CB350 platform.Honda CB350X ADV RenderThe envisioned motorcycle is anticipated to weigh approximately 195 kg, deliver 20.78 bhp and 30 Nm torque, equipped with a 5-speed gearbox, air-cooled SOHC 4V engine, and conventional suspension. Expect it to be priced around Rs. 2.4 lakh (ex-showroom).At this price point, the CB350X ADV will position itself in proximity to competitors like the Triumph Scrambler X and Royal Enfield Himalayan 450, albeit with potentially superior hardware and performance. With a speculated launch towards the end of 2024, the Honda CB350X ADV might not only cater to the domestic market but also hold export potential, following in the footsteps of the recently launched Honda CB350 Classic. More

  • in

    Mahindra XUV Coupe EV Spied In Ladakh Next To Alto, Dzire – Launch In 2025

    Mahindra XUV Coupe SpiedExpected to be around 4,790 mm long, Mahindra XUV coupe has a powerful, dynamic road presenceTo ensure its dominance in an electrified era, Mahindra is working on its next-gen XUV.e and BE range of electric SUVs. All these SUVs will be based on the new INGLO platform. Test mules have been spotted frequently and the latest sighting is that of XUV.e9 from Ladakh, where it was spotted by automotive Ravneesh. It can be seen parked in between the Maruti Dzire and Maruti Alto.Mahindra XUV.e9 – Key featuresXUV.e9 is primarily an electric version of the upcoming Mahindra XUV700 Coupe or XUV800. The coupe SUV instantly gets your attention with the sloping roofline. Its curvy, aerodynamic profile exudes confidence and sophistication, something that’s just not possible with the boxy profile of traditional SUVs.Mahindra XUV Coupe Spied Mahindra had recently filed a design patent for XUV.e9, which reveals features such as a closed front panel, sleek C-shaped DRLs, full-width LED light bar, sharp LED headlamps and chiselled bonnet. Side profile has sporty alloy wheels, circular fenders and ORVMs with integrated turn signals. It is likely that the ORVMs will have cameras to support the 360° view. While the front doors have flush-type handles, the rear door handles are mounted on the C-pillar.At rear, the SUV has shark fin antenna, split aero rear spoiler, wraparound tail lamps, prominent bumper and fake air vent-type elements. XUV.e9’s coupe profile is not just about aesthetics. It also makes the vehicle more efficient by reducing drag. Wheels too have aerodynamic properties. These features will help achieve a higher range for XUV.e9.Mahindra XUV Coupe SpiedMahindra XUV.e9 interiorsWith multiple bestselling SUVs, it is apparent that Mahindra has consistently focused on customer delight. The approach will be the same for the upcoming electric SUVs. Mahindra is looking to enhance the user experience with a multitude of segment-first features.Mahindra XUV Coupe SpiedFor example, XUV.e9 will have a triple-screen setup that will cover almost the full width of the dashboard. Along with the touchscreen and instrument cluster, the third screen will be for the front passenger. The cockpit section will be truly transformed with the interconnected 3-screen layout.Mahindra is also expected to debut a new steering wheel with backlit logo for its born-electric SUV range. It is likely to be similar to that of new-gen Tata cars. Upcoming Mahindra electric SUVs can also have a fixed glass roof top. The cabin could get special features to ensure the best visual outcomes with the natural light flowing from the roof.Mahindra XUV Coupe SpiedMahindra XUV.e9 performanceBoth RWD and AWD options will be available with Mahindra XUV.e9. The SUV will have the INGLO platform that has significant optimizations across performance and efficiency. Based on the variant, the battery capacity could be in the range of 60 kWh to 80 kWh. Range is expected to be around 500 km. As for the top speed, Mahindra has already shared a teaser showing XUV.e9 touching 200 km/h in a track environment. More

  • in

    New MG Electric Car Launch Around 2024 Festive Season – MD Confirms

    Baojun Yep Plus – 5 door sub 4m electric SUV based on CometConsidering the prospective vehicles from SAIC Group’s global portfolio, Baojun Yep eSUV under MG brand might be the best bet for IndiaHaving marked its entry into the Indian market with the launch of Hector in 2019, MG Motor has established itself as a prominent player. With a lineup of premium and well-crafted vehicles, MG Motor India has been actively participating in the electric car segment, currently offering ZS EV and Comet. As the festive season approaches, MG is gearing up to introduce its third electric vehicle to the Indian market.Confirmation of MG’s 3rd Electric Car LaunchAgainst the backdrop of a growing economy, Indian consumers are increasingly inclined towards enhancing their car ownership experience. Electric vehicles, offering lively performance and aligning with eco-conscious preferences, have garnered attention. Currently constituting around 2% of all passenger vehicles sold in India, EVs are anticipated to exhibit significant growth in the coming years.MG files design trademark for New Yep Electric SUV in IndiaIndustry speculations suggest that EV sales may account for approximately 15% to 20% of the market by the end of the decade. Recognizing this trend, many Indian original equipment manufacturers (OEMs) are gearing up to introduce new vehicles, particularly electric ones, across various segments. MG Motor is no exception.Rajeev Chaba, MD of MG Motor India, has officially confirmed that the company is set to launch a new electric car later this year. This marks a significant stride for MG Motor in its expansion efforts in India, potentially being the first vehicle under MG branding following the strategic joint venture between SAIC Motor (parent company of MG Motor) and JSW Group led by Sajjan Jindal.MG Yep SUV interiorPresently, EVs contribute to 25% of MG Motor India’s sales volumes. The upcoming electric vehicle launch is expected to further boost this share. MG aims to leverage its manufacturing capabilities, pricing strategies, and overall product expertise for this new electric offering.MG Comet based Yep electric SUVThere are indications of a potential increase in production capacity at MG’s Halol plant in Gujarat. With around 60,000 vehicles sold in India last year, the production capacity is projected to expand to 80,000 to 90,000 units in 2024. The infusion of capital from JSW Group, holding a 35% stake, is expected to provide MG with the necessary impetus to expand its operations in India.What to Expect?MG Motor India is set to double its portfolio by the end of 2025, with a new electric vehicle slated for launch during the festive season of 2024. Considering the showcase at the 2023 Auto Expo, potential vehicles for launch this year include the MG4 electric hatchback, MG5 electric estate car, or Mifa 9 electric MPV.Given India’s electric vehicle purchasing trends and preferences, there is a strong possibility of MG launching the Baojun Yep eSUV in India. Based on the Wuling Air EV, introduced in India as the Comet, its attractive design and relatively affordable price tag could prove to be a winning formula for MG Motor India.Source More

  • in

    VW MEB to Fuel Mahindra’s INGLO Platform – First E-SUV Launch Dec 2024

    New Mahindra BE05 Electric SUV CoupeVolkswagen and Mahindra Charge Ahead in E-Mobility Partnership – Mahindra’s INGLO Platform to Roll Out Electric SUVs from December 2024In a landmark move towards sustainable electric mobility, Volkswagen Group and Mahindra & Mahindra Ltd. (M&M) have inked a groundbreaking supply agreement. The agreement solidifies Mahindra’s commitment to equip a specific range of its electric platform, INGLO, with components from Volkswagen’s Modular Electrification Toolkit (MEB) and unified cells.Sourcing 50 GWh Battery From VolkswagenThis strategic collaboration marks a pivotal step forward in the joint vision for e-mobility between the two automotive giants. The comprehensive deal encompasses the supply of crucial electric components and unified cells, demonstrating the depth of commitment to advancing electric vehicle (EV) technology.Mahindra INGLO PlatformThese electric components from Volkswagen’s MEB platform will populate Mahindra’s Born Electric INGLO platform. The agreement covers both supply of certain components and Volkswagen’s unified cells from MEB platform. What started as a partnering agreement and a term sheet in 2022 between Mahindra & Mahindra Ltd and Volkswagen Group, has now evolved into an active collaboration that could show expansion in the future.Both companies have agreed to run the supply agreement for years to follow. The total energy capacity sourced from VW over the years might account for as much as 50 GWh. This may accelerate India’s electric mobility adoption and will benefit both companies along the way.Mahindra Electric SUVs Doing 200 KmphAs of now, only Volkswagen Group brands like Volkswagen, Audi, Skoda and SEAT/CUPRA use Volkswagen’s MEB platform. These are Volkswagen’s internal brands. Mahindra is set to be the first external partner to use ground-breaking unified cells technology from Volkswagen. Other external partner in the race to source MEB components is Ford.Mahindra INGLO SUVs Launch Timeline OutMahindra has revealed it will launch five all-electric SUVs based on INGLO platform. These are BE.05, BE.07, BE.09, XUV.e8 and XUV.e9. The press release also mentioned these INGLO platform-equipped e-SUVs will launch starting from December 2024. The first INGLO platform-equipped vehicle to launch is highly likely to be XUV.e8, which has been spotted testing on multiple occasions.At Mahindra’s Future Scape event held in Johannesburg, South Africa, the company presentations demonstrated INGLO platform populated with BYD’s Blade cells. Where “Platform Business” is concerned, BYD’s Blade cells are a primary rival for Volkswagen’s MEB unified cells.Mahindra is likely to be collaborating with different battery vendors depending upon the target market owing to availability, supply and market acceptance. After all, Mahindra has announced that the INGLO based vehicles will be a key stepping point in expanding the brand’s presence in international business, touching more lives globally. More

  • in

    Ola Electric Scooter Rs 25,000 Discount – Valentine’s Day Gift From CEO

    Ola electric scooter discountThe new Valentine’s Day discount from Ola Electric could prove sales advantage over immediate rivals from Ather, TVS, Bajaj, Simple and othersValentine’s Day is seeing a greater push by automotive manufacturers, unlocking new discounts, offers and more. Many OEMs even choose to unveil or launch their vehicles on this day too, like Skoda Octavia Facelift. But Ola is taking a different approach and is offering a Rs. 25K discount on their products for V Day. Let’s take a look.Ola Electric Announced Rs. 25K DiscountElectric vehicle transition has seen greater acceptance with 2W in India than it has in the 4W realm. This is because of lower up-front costs that owners have to shed for electric mobility adoption. This ensures higher penetration rates for 2W than 4W. There are more mainstream OEMs and startups riding the wave of 2W EVs than 4W EVs.Two Wheeler Retail Sales Jan 2024Ola Electric is currently the Alpha Wolf, leading this 2W electric mobility pack, where sales are concerned. The numbers are totally in favour of Ola Electric and the economy of scale allows them to introduce price benefits and discounts to attract more buyers and consolidate their brand loyalty further.For Valentine’s Day, Ola Electric has announced a special gift to its new buyers. Bhavish Aggarwal took to social media platform X, and announced the new discount. As per the announcement, this special discount is in effect starting from today, 16th February 2024, and will exist till the end of this month – 29th February 2024.Ola electric scooter discountBhavish Aggarwal announcementAnnouncing the new discounts on social media, Ola Electric CEO, Bhavish Aggarwal wrote “You asked, we delivered! We’re reducing our prices by upto Rs 25,000, starting today for the month of Feb for all of you!! Breaking all barriers to #EndICEage! Valentine’s Day gift for all our customers”Currently, Ola Electric has three models on sale that will benefit from the new discount. As per the website homepage, Ola Electric currently sells Ola S1 X+ starting from Rs. 79,999 (ex-sh), Ola S1 Air starting from Rs. 1,19,999 (ex-sh) and Ola S1 Pro starting from Rs. 1,29,999 (ex-sh).The announcement Bhavish Aggarwal made on social media also had an image of the company’s marketing material attached. As per this image uploaded by Ola Electric CEO, S1 pro starts from Rs. 1,29,999 (ex-sh) matching website’s prices. However, there are variances with Ola S1 X and S1 Air’s prices.In the image uploaded by Ola Electric CEO, Ola S1 Air starts from 1,04,999 (ex-sh) and Ola S1 X+ starts from Rs. 84,999 (ex-sh). These prices are not likely to be including the new Valentine’s Day discount their CEO announced. So, visiting your nearest Ola dealership is advised. More