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    TVS Apache RTR 310 Spied Testing – Launch Soon

    TVS Apache RTR 310 SpiedBeing more agile and likely to be priced competitively, TVS Apache RTR 310 can register stronger sales in comparison to its faired siblingAs part of their agreement and shared 310cc platform, TVS initially offered the Apache RR310 whereas BMW Motorrad had G310R. Last year, BMW had launched its own faired version, G310RR. With that, it was only a matter of time when TVS came up with its own naked version – Apache RTR 310.TVS is likely to launch Apache RTR 310 by end of this month. It has now been spied for the first time. Design philosophy of TVS Apache RTR 310 will be similar to that of current breed of RTR motorcycles. These bikes borrow much of their styling from Draken concept that was unveiled in 2014.TVS Apache RTR 310 SpiedTVS Apache RTR 310 styling and featuresBeing the range-topping RTR motorcycle, TVS Apache RTR 310 is expected to get some additional ornamentation. The objective will be to project TVS Apache RTR 310 as the sportiest in its class. There can’t be any compromises in styling, as the bike will be up against the likes of KTM 390 Duke, 250 Duke and Honda CB300R.TVS Apache RTR 310 is expected to get all-LED lights, dominating front fascia, golden USD forks, sculpted fuel tank with shoulder fairing, sleek split seats and upswept exhaust. Some exclusive spicy colour themes are also likely. Just like its faired sibling, TVS Apache RTR 310 could also get customization option via TVS Built To Order platform.TVS Apache RTR 310 SpiedMuch of the equipment list will be borrowed from Apache RR310. However, there could be some differences such as a horizontally positioned TFT screen instead of the vertically mounted instrumentation available with RR310. TVS SmartXonnect connectivity suite is expected to be offered as standard with Apache RTR 310. It has functions such as calls and text management, ride details and turn-by-turn navigation.TVS Apache RTR 310 performance, specsPowering TVS Apache RTR 310 will be the 312.2cc, liquid cooled, single cylinder motor. It is mated to a 6-speed gearbox. The bike will be getting riding modes, which could be same as RR310. In Sport and Track mode, power output is 34 PS and 27.3 Nm. In Urban and Rain mode, output is limited to 25.8 PS and 25 Nm. To suit is roadster profile, it is possible that some engine tweaks can be introduced for RTR 310.Hardware will be mostly the same as RR310, but there could be some changes to suit city riding needs. RR310 has trellis frame with USD forks and monoshock rear suspension. Braking duties are performed by 300 mm and 240 mm petal discs at front and rear, respectively. Dual-channel ABS is offered as standard. Just like its faired sibling, Apache RTR 310 will be using Michelin Road 5 tyres.Source More

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    Triumph Speed 400, Scrambler 400X Revealed – 398cc, 40 bhp, 37.5 Nm

    Triumph Speed 400, Scrambler 400X RevealedBoth Triumph Speed 400 and Scrambler 400X packs the same 398cc single-cylinder engine with 40 bhp and 37.5 Nm, mated to a 6-speed gearboxThe partnership with Bajaj has yielded two new motorcycles for British brand Triumph. These are Triumph Speed 400 and Scrambler 400X. As their name suggests, Speed 400 is a street naked motorcycle and resembles Street Twin (now called Speed Twin 900) to a large extent. On the other hand, Scrambler 400X strikes a resemblance with Scrambler 900.Bajaj Auto manufactures both motorcycles in India for Triumph like it is manufacturing KTM and Husqvarna single-cylinder lineup. These are the first set of motorcycles to come out of this partnership. There will be more in the future. Most of the specifications are out, while prices are still under wraps. Let’s take a look at what they pack.Triumph Speed 400, Scrambler 400X RevealedTriumph Speed 400 & Scrambler 400X – Bri-ish bonanzaThis new TR-series 398cc engine is of prime importance with both these motorcycles. It gets DOHC and liquid-cooling setup along with a slip-and-assist clutch and ride-by-wire tech for granular throttle modulation. Performance numbers include 40 bhp of power at 8000 RPM and 37.5 Nm of torque at 6500 RPM, which brings it close to KTM 390 range’s figures.But Triumph gets its peak performance much earlier in the rev range. A 6-speed transmission does duty, even though larger 900cc twin-cylinder models still feature a 5-speed gearbox. Engine’s visual presentation like triangular engine cover bears semblance with bigger Triumph bikes too. Despite liquid cooling, it gets fins that bring in the old-world charm.Triumph Speed 400 DesignSpeaking of old-world charm, both Triumph Speed 400 and Scrambler 400X perfectly hit the neo-retro genre. Round headlight, minimal body panels, 43mm gold USD forks, mostly blacked-out engine bay with stylish silver accents, contrasting fuel tank colour look attractive. Speed 400 gets bar-end mirrors, single-tip exhaust and a single seat.Triumph Speed 400, Scrambler 400X RevealedScrambler 400X gets regular ORVMs but features a headlight grille, taller handlebar, knuckle guards, scrambler-style twin-tip exhaust and split seats. Componentry is slightly different for both. Speed 400 gets 17” alloy wheels at both ends, wrapped with Metzeler Sportec M9RR tyres, 140mm front and 130mm rear suspension travel, 300mm front disc, dual-channel ABS, 790mm seat height and more.When will they launch?Scrambler 400X gets 19” front and 17” rear wheels with Metzeler Karoo Street tyres with block pattern, 150mm suspension travel at both ends, 320mm front disc, switchable dual-channel ABS, 835mm seat height and more. Speed 400 weighs 170 kg, while Scrambler 400X weighs 179 kg. Triumph mounts all components on a hybrid tubular steel spine/perimeter frame.Triumph Scrambler 400X Dual Tip ExhaustThere is a semi-digital instrument cluster with a large analog speedo and a digital tacho. It should’ve been the other way around, isn’t it? Other than that, all-LED lighting, heated grips (probably optional), USB Type-C charging port, switchable transaction control, gear position indicator, and more.[embedded content]Considering everything Triumph Speed 400 and Scrambler 400X are packing, we would wager that prices are likely to be around the same ballpark as KTM 390 range. A price between Rs. 3 lakh to Rs. 3.5 lakh is highly likely. Launch is likely soon. More

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    Tata Nexon Electric Celebrates 50k Sales Milestone In 3 Yrs

    Tata Nexon EV Cross 50K Sales markThe highest-selling electric car in India is Tata Nexon EV – sales recently crossed 50K units milestone signifying its immense popularityIn a country like India where there is very little exposure to electric mobility, EV sales have grown substantially in recent years. We have observed a similar growth pattern in both 2W, 3W and 4W vehicles used for both commercial and private applications. At the forefront of this EV revolution in 4W space, is Tata Nexon EV.Since its launch in Jan 2020, Nexon EV has been the most popular 4W EV by a big margin. Sales numbers stand testament to this unprecedented growth as it recently touched the 50K sales mark since the past three years. Tata Motors proudly celebrates #NexonEV50KCommunity.Tata Nexon EV Sales – 50K Strong and countingNexon EV has managed to transform the perspective of EVs in India. There was a time when EVs were considered too small and not at all desirable. But not anymore. Tata Nexon EV is a daily-driveable vehicle with a real-world range of 150 to 300 km from a single charge. ICE Nexon’s familiar design made the transition that much smoother.With time, Tata Motors has taken good strides in expanding the Nexon EV lineup. It now includes Nexon EV Max with a larger 40.5 kWh battery with a real-world range of around 300 km. Tata has introduced a less expensive base trim with Nexon EV Max – making the EV accessible to a wider audience.New Updated Nexon EV Max XZ+ LUX TrimCommenting on this milestone, Mr. Vivek Srivatsa, Head, Marketing, Sales and Service Strategy, Tata Passenger Electric Mobility Ltd., said, “The Nexon EV was introduced as India’s own electric SUV with the aim of offering a cool, stylish, practical and real-world solution for faster EV adoption in India. The Nexon EV customers have grown to 50K in just 3 years.This is a testament to how India has embraced EVs as the mobility of the current times. We would like to thank the early adopters, who believed in the promise of the Nexon EV and in-turn allowed the EV ecosystem to build and become what it is now. We hope more people experience the promise of an EV and evolve to electric.”How far has India’s EV infra arrived?Even though there are still voes with EV owners in India, India’s EV charging infrastructure has come a long way as well. There are around 6,000 charging stations in the country today and growing fast. Growth rate is around 1500% between FY21 and FY23, which signifies faster expansion of the charging network.On average, Nexon EV owners drive around 6.3 million km in a month including city commutes and outstations. That will increase in the future. As of now, Nexon EV has contributed to 15% of total Nexon sales, which is commendable considering Nexon ICE is the highest-selling SUV in India. Tata Motors holds around 80% of 4W EV market share in India with MG in second and Mahindra in third place. Tata Motors is set to launch an electrified version of Altroz, Punch, Curvv, Harrier, Safari and Sierra in the future. More

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    New Hero Maxi Scooter Spied Testing – Aerox 155 Rival?

    New Hero Maxi Scooter SpiedConsidering the maxi-scooter’s brawny proportions, the 163cc engine from Xtreme 160R seems like a perfect matchWith recent launch of Xtreme 160R 4V and upcoming Karizma fully-faired bike, it is evident that Hero MotoCorp has stepped up focus on premium segment. The company seems to be following a similar strategy for its scooter portfolio as well. Earlier this month, a design patent had revealed details about Hero’s new maxi-scooter.In the latest development, a maxi-scooter in camouflage has been spotted near Hero MotoCorp’s R&D centre in Jaipur. It appears to be largely the same as the scooter revealed in the design patent. As the test mule looks near-production ready, it won’t be surprising to see its launch around festive season or by end of this year. Hat tip to automotive enthusiast Pushpender for sharing these exclusive spy shots.New Hero Maxi Scooter SpiedHero maxi-scooter featuresSome of the key highlights of Hero’s first-ever maxi-scooter include split headlamp setup, angular front fascia, trendy rear view mirrors and sharp turn indicators. An all-LED lighting setup is likely for the scooter. It can be seen with a stubby upswept exhaust. Side panels have sharp design elements, which help achieve a sporty profile for the scooter.Raked design of the stepped seat ensures a sporty stance, all while allowing optimal control and handling across busy city streets. The single-piece seat seems comfortable for both rider and pillion. The test mule is missing the rear rack that was seen in the design patent. It is likely that the rear rack will be offered as an accessory. The scooter is equipped with an ergonomically placed handlebar.New Hero Maxi Scooter SpiedAlthough not clear in the images, it is likely that Hero’s new maxi-scooter will have a fully digital instrument console. It could get telematics features, accessible via Hero Connect mobile app. Some of the key telematics features could include ignition alert, SoS alert, accident/crash alert, topple alert, over-speed alert, theft alert, battery removal alert, geofence alert and remote immobilization.Hero maxi-scooter performance, specsHero’s maxi-scooter could be a rival to Yamaha Aerox 155. In that case, it could borrow the 163 cc, air-cooled engine from Xtreme 160R. It generates 15 bhp of max power and 14 Nm of peak torque. Some tweaks could be performed to align the engine with the specific needs of the scooter. For reference, Aerox 155 is equipped with a 155cc, liquid cooled engine. It makes 15 PS and 13.9 Nm.Hero new maxi-scooter has telescopic forks at front and a single-sided monoshock unit at rear. It gets a disc brake at front. Single-channel ABS could be offered as standard. One of the most notable features is the large alloy wheels, which appear to be 14-inch units. Large wheels not only improve street presence, but also offer smoother and safer rides across bad patches.To push sales, Hero could offer its first-ever maxi-scooter at an affordable price. While Aerox 155 is available at a starting price of Rs 1.43 lakh, Hero maxi scooter could be launched at around Rs 1.20 lakh (ex.sh). More

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    Maruti EVX Electric SUV spied for first time – Launch in 2025

    Maruti EVX Electric SUV spiedMaruti Suzuki EVX electric SUV will have a 60-kWh battery pack, with range of up to 550 kmInternally codenamed YY8, Maruti Suzuki had showcased the EVX electric SUV concept at 2023 Auto Expo. It will be the company’s first born-electric car and is expected to debut next year. It will go on sale in 2025. One of the key rivals will be upcoming Hyundai Creta EV.Ahead of its launch, a Suzuki EVX electric SUV has been spotted at a charging station in Krakow, Poland. The test mule wears a black camouflage, not intending to reveal the finer details. However, the tight wrapping does show a close resemblance to the concept version.Maruti EVX Electric SUV spiedSuzuki EVX electric SUV featuresAs compared to the heavily muscled concept, the test mule appears to have a relatively toned-down styling. However, quite a few features have been carried forward such as the butch front fascia, sculpted bonnet design and thick body cladding. The SUV has a tapering roofline, which helps achieve a sporty profile. At rear, Suzuki EVX will have a layered spoiler, rugged bumper and edgy tail lamps with full-width connecting LED strip.Suzuki EVX test mule can be seen with temporary lighting all across. It has a standard set of alloy wheels, which are likely to be changed onboard the production version. The concept version had aerodynamic alloy wheels, especially designed to reduce drag. Other noticeable features include C-pillar mounted rear door handles, shark fin antenna and rear wiper.Maruti EVX Electric SUV spiedInside, the test mule has a number of wires dangling around. It clearly shows that this test vehicle is largely a work-in-progress. A significant section of the dashboard has been camouflaged. It does appear to have a simple, minimalistic design.Maruti EVX Electric SUV interiors spiedSome features that are clearly visible include a two-spoke flat-bottom steering wheel, steering mounted controls and a rotary control dial on the centre console. The showstopper is a large, horizontally mounted touchscreen infotainment system and digital instrument console.Suzuki EVX electric SUV performanceAs compared to other OEMs that are converting existing ICE cars into electric, Maruti Suzuki will move directly to born-electric vehicles. Suzuki EVX electric SUV is based on an entirely new platform. It will be used to develop a range of future EVs. Overall performance of Suzuki EVX electric SUV will closely match that of similar-sized ICE SUVs such as Hyundai Creta.Maruti EVX Electric SUV spiedSuzuki EVX electric SUV will be equipped with a 60-kWh battery pack, offering a range of up to 550 km. The electric motor is expected to deliver around 138-170 hp of max power. Both 2WD and all-wheel drive options will be available.With a dedicated EV platform, Suzuki EVX will have spacious interiors. It will be 4,300 mm long, 1,800 mm wide and 1,600 mm tall. Wheelbase is expected to be best in segment. The SUV will have large wheels, which will ensure a strong street presence and high ground clearance.Source More

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    Top 10 Two Wheelers May 2023 – Splendor, Activa, Pulsar, Apache

    TVS ApacheIn May 2023, Hero Splendor sales were higher by 1.39 lakh over its closest rival, Honda ActivaTwo wheeler sales in May 2023 improved by 23.01 percent YoY. Total sales stood at 11,10,593 units in May 2023, up from 9,02,842 units sold in May 2022 relating to a 2,07,751 unit volume growth. It was also a MoM growth from 10,25,782 units sold in April 2023.Most models on the top 10 list have seen YoY growth except for Hero HF Deluxe, Honda CB Shine and TVS Jupiter. Topping the sales list was Hero Splendor with 3,42,526 units sold in May 2023, up 30.61 percent over 2,62,249 units sold in May 2022. This was an 80,277 unit volume growth with the Splendor commanding a 30.84 percent share on this list. Top 10 Two Wheelers May 2023Top 10 Two Wheelers May 2023Honda Activa has also posted double digit YoY growth of 36.11 percent to 2,03,365 units in May 2023, up from 1,49,407 units sold in May 2022. The company now gears up for launch of the Activa electric scooter that is expected to launch later this year or in early 2024.At No.3 was Bajaj Pulsar with an 85.44 percent YoY growth in sales to 1,28,403 units in May 2023 up from 69,241 units sold in May 2022. The Bajaj Pulsar currently commands an 11.56 percent share in this list. Top 10 two wheelers May 2023Hero HF Deluxe, Honda Shine, TVS Jupiter – Sales declineSales de-growth was seen in the case of HF Deluxe that dipped by 14.32 percent YoY to 1,09,100 units in May 2023, down from 1,27,330 units sold in May 2022. The 2023 Hero HF Deluxe becomes more competent to take on rivals which sportier styling, now colours and body graphics while its engine gets BS-VI – OBD-II compliant.NoTop 10 2WheelersMay-23May-22DiffGrowth % YoY1Splendor3,42,5262,62,24980,27730.612Activa2,03,3651,49,40753,95836.113Pulsar1,28,40369,24159,16285.444HF Deluxe1,09,1001,27,330-18,230-14.325Shine1,03,6991,19,765-16,066-13.416Jupiter57,60959,613-2,004-3.367Access45,94535,70910,23628.678Platina42,15417,33624,818143.169Apache41,95527,04414,91155.1410TVS XL35,83735,1486891.96Honda Shine also saw reduced sales last month with a 13.41 percent YoY de-growth to 1,03,699 units sold in May 2023 from 1,19,765 units sold in May 2022. Sales also dipped YoY for the TVS Jupiter by 3.36 percent to 57,609 units from 59,613 units sold in May 2022.Suzuki Access scooter sales grew by 28.67 percent YoY to 45,945 units in May 2023, up from 35,709 units sold in May 2022. Bajaj Platina at No.8 also posted a YoY growth of 143.16 percent, the most YoY growth as compared to any other two wheeler on this list. Sales of the Platina improved to 42,154 units in May 2023 from 17,336 units sold in May 2022. There was also the TVS Apache (41,955 units) and TVS XL moped (35,837 units) featured at the bottom of this list with both seeing increased YoY sales. More

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    Upcoming TVS Cruiser Patent Leaks Before Launch – Royal Enfield Rival ?

    Render for illustration purpose only.As compared to the current range of TVS motorcycles, the new cruiser appears to have a relatively sober profileIt is known that TVS is working on a new flagship bike. The middleweight segment has registered strong growth and has significant future potential. This makes a strong case for TVS to expand its portfolio and introduce new premium products.There are various options that can be considered for middleweight segment. It could be a roadster, scrambler, ADV, etc. However, the patent filed by TVS reveals the typical design of a cruiser. Based on whether it is below or above 500cc, the new TVS cruiser will go up against Royal Enfield Meteor 350 or Super Meteor 650. Upcoming TVS cruiser motorcycle – Design patent leaksTVS new cruiser bike – styling and featuresTVS new cruiser has a neo-retro profile. It has the old school, laidback look and feel, quite different from the current range of TVS motorcycles. Some of the key highlights include a round headlamp, USD front forks, a large engine, curvy fuel tank and a single exhaust pipe. Users can expect comfortable rides with features such as the wide, swept-back handlebar and forward-set foot pegs.For the new cruiser, it is possible that TVS could use the expertise of British brand Norton Motorcycles. TVS had acquired Norton Motorcycles in 2020. The deal was valued at around Rs 153 crore. In April 2022, TVS announced investments worth £100 million (more than Rs 1,000 crore) in Norton Motorcycles. With such massive investments, it will be safe to assume that TVS is planning something big. There could be a plan to aggressively target global markets with the new generation of TVS motorcycles.Upcoming TVS cruiser motorcycle – Design patent leaksTVS new cruiser performance, specsAlthough TVS new cruiser can be seen with a large, wide-bodied engine, it is not certain if it’s a single-cylinder or twin-cylinder unit. If displacement is around 650cc to 700cc, there’s a likelihood of a twin-cylinder motor. TVS-owned Norton Motorcycles has several big bikes powered by parallel twin motor. Royal Enfield Super Meteor 650 also utilizes a parallel-twin setup. The 648cc engine churns out 47 PS of max power and 52.3 Nm of peak torque. It is mated to a 6-speed gearbox.At rear, TVS cruiser is expected to get dual rear shock absorbers. It will be interesting to see what kind of aural experiences the new TVS cruiser comes up with. Surely, TVS will be looking to create something unique and exhilarating.In terms of launch timelines, there’s no clarity at this point of time. However, it is likely that TVS will be looking to launch the cruiser as soon as possible. TVS is also working on other new products. For example, multiple new electric two-wheelers will be launched in the next 12 to 13 months. These will be in the 5kW to 25kW category. TVS will also launch a naked streetfighter version of the existing bestseller Apache RR310. More

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    Hero Xtreme 160R 4V USD Forks – Launch Price Rs. 1,36,500

    2023 Hero Xtreme 160R 4V LaunchedThe new oil-cooled 163cc engine on Hero Xtreme 160R 4V gets a 4V head as the name suggests and generates 16.9 Ps/12.4kW @ 8500rpm
    For the first time in recent past, Hero MotoCorp is making big revisions to its premium motorcycle range (160cc+). This began with launching of MY2023 Xpulse 200 4V and Xpulse 200 4V Pro motorcycles. At the flagship end, there is Karizma which is set to launch by the end of 2023. Now, Hero has taken wraps off MY2023 Hero Xtreme 160R 4V with USD forks.
    This is a big revision for Xtreme 160R and is a much-needed one at that. There are two variants, Standard and Pro variants. Hero has priced this Standard variant at Rs. 1,27,300, Rs. 1,32,800 for the connected variant and Rs. 1,36,500 for Pro variant (all prices ex-sh) and it is a tempting proposition as it is the only motorcycle to offer a 4V head and USD front forks in the same package. The new colour additions are Matte Slate Black, Neon Shooting Star and Blazing Sports Red.
    Hero Xtreme 160R 4V – The new king of 160cc segment?
    160cc space is currently dominated by two manufacturers. TVS with its Apache RTR 160 (both 2V and 4V) and Bajaj with its Pulsar NS160 and Pulsar N160. Honda X-Blade and Hero Xtreme 160R fall in the same segment but don’t sell as many motorcycles. TVS Apache RTR 160 4V was the only one with a 4V head.
    Pulsar NS160 was the only one with KYB USD front forks. Hero seems to be making a best-case scenario in this segment by bundling both of these attributes in the same package. As of now, Bajaj Pulsar N160 and Pulsar NS160 packed oil cooling setup. But Hero seems to have jumped in the bandwagon too and is offering oil-cooling setup.
    MY2023 Hero Xtreme 160R 4V Specs
    This should vastly reduce heating and expand headroom to extract more performance with the 4V head. This 4V head ensures increased performance, fuel efficiency, durability (with reduced wear and tear due to reciprocation of smaller valves), engine speed and reduce vibrations and make the engine sustain higher speeds for longer.
    Pulsar NS160 and Pulsar N160 get dual-channel ABS options. The 163cc single-cylinder engine makes 16.9 PS @ 8500 RPM, 14.6 Nm of torque @6500 RPM, mated to a 5-speed gearbox. Kerb weight is 144 kg.
    Added features are extensive
    Apart from a 4V head, oil-cooling setup and USD front forks, Hero has offered quite a few design revisions as well. There is a slightly revised fuel tank and headlight cluster to lend a slightly athletic demeanor. The belly pan look similar to Stealth Edition variant, but knuckle guards are missing. Belly pan gets a new 4V sticker to signify its improved mechanicals.
    MY2023 Hero Xtreme 160R 4V Prices
    MY2023 Hero Xtreme 160R 4V Colour
    Hero Xtreme 160R 4V with USD front forks gets LED headlights, LED tail lights with smoked effect, LED turn indicators at both ends with hazard light function, rear disc brake option and more. Instrumentation is fully digital and features Bluetooth connectivity as well. Hero didn’t mention anything about navigation and dual-channel ABS. The latter is on offer with Pulsar N160 and Pulsar NS160.
    The company promises Xtreme 160R 4V will be the fastest one in its segment in a straight line and the fastest to a quarter-mile, which should be its main USP. Also, Hero mentions it is the lightest in its segment as well. For people who want the outgoing 2V model, Hero has retained it and is still on sale as well. More