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      in Electric Cars

      Mahindra BE.05 Electric spied along with XUV700 – Rear design revealed

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      Mahindra BE.05 rear designMahindra BE.05 eSUV will be the smallest and the least expensive SUVs among other Born Electric BE rangeIndian homegrown brand Mahindra is entering a new era of futuristic EVs. We’re not talking about the ICE spinoffs that XUV.e8 and XUV.e9 will be. Instead, we are talking about the Born Electric BE.05, BE.07 and BE.09. Mahindra designed these from the ground up, to be electric vehicles and will feature a wild design language.Mahindra showcased all five of its EVs and their expected design language on August 15th, 2022 at M.A.D.E HQ in UK. We had expressed how BE.05 will be the most important vehicle among the five showcased. Within a year, we can see Mahindra commencing testing for BE.05 on Indian roads. Now, for the first time, the rear profile has been caught on camera in Chennai, where it was seen testing along with XUV700.Mahindra BE.05 Rear Design SpottedWe have seen the front profile and its interiors before. Now, with rear design out, we can compile a basic silhouette to see how BE.05 might look like. For starters, we like what we see. At their debut, Mahindra had promised most of the design elements of the concept will make it to production phase.Looking at the production-spec body under testing, Mahindra is living up to its promise. Mahindra BE.05 looks just as wild as it did in its concept form. We can see how organic and animalistic BE.05’s design aesthetics really are. The rear gets massive LED tail light signatures that not only get connected-type elements, but they also extend further down as well.Mahindra BE.05 electric SUVIn effect, these LED tail lights are so dominating, they eat into the rear windshield quite a bit. This makes the rear windshield very small. Mahindra is offering a massive roof spoiler too, which is very stylistic in its appeal. But it further eats into the rear windshield area. Visibility at the back will not be BE.05’s forte.There is a vent-like element in the center of the rear bumper, which is highly likely to be for styling purposes only. BE.05 will not feature Mahindra’s Twin Peaks logo. Instead, there is an illuminated BE logo in rear tail lights. Rear haunches are immense and tyres look to be 235-section, which lends a lot of muscle to this SUV.What do we know so far?Mahindra is sticking to its plan and roadmap with INGLO platform that the company divulged at its debut event. This is a derivative of Volkswagen’s scalable and modular MEB platform, rebranded. Capacity will be between 60 and 80 kWh. INGLO platform is compatible with both single-motor and dual-motor layouts as well.Mahindra BE.05 electric SUV coupeMahindra BE.07 is a Creta-sized compact eSUV measuring 4370 mm in length, 1900 mm in width, 1635 mm in height, and boasts a wheelbase of 2775 mm. This will be the smallest and the most affordable electric SUV with Mahindra’s new INGLO platform. Vehicles in this segment top out at 50 kWh battery (MG ZS EV). It will be interesting to see how BE.05 fares in India and in global markets. XUV.e8 will be the first to launch, though. More

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      in Electric Cars

      Mahindra XUV700 Electric SUV spied testing in Chennai

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      Spied XUV700 ElectricOn the inside, Mahindra XUV700 electric or XUV.e8 will feature a triple screen layout – One for instrumentation, one for infotainment and the last for front passengerThe Indian automotive market is opening up to the EV revolution more steadily than anticipated. At its forefront is Tata Motors. The company is expanding its EV portfolio vertically and will launch electrified versions of its flagship Harrier and Safari. Mahindra will counter Harrier EV and Safari EV with an electrified version of its XUV700.Mahindra has planned to launch five different electric SUVs based on the new INGLO platform. The company is testing it extensively and launch is likely to happen in 2024 or early 2025. Until now, all test mules didn’t show visual confirmations to suggest electric powertrains, until now. In the recent test mules, we can see HV cables running beneath the floor where the battery is. Spied XUV700 ElectricMahindra XUV700 Electric Test Mule – Harrier EV & Safari EV rivalRight after BE.05 test mules, we now get to see XUV.e8 (electric XUV700) test mules as well. This is a good indication that Mahindra is looking to launch them sooner than later. Competition in EV space is growing by the day. Hat tip to automotive enthusiast Ram Prasath for sharing these new spy shots.The recent test mules show the presence of orange coloured cables at the back. Automotive powertrains have colour-coded cables. Blue coloured cables mean it carries around 36V to 42V, while Orange cables mean that they carry up to 1000V. These are also called HV cables (high voltage cables). Orange cables carry HV AC or DC current between charger, inverter, motor and battery.Spied XUV700 ElectricOn XUV.e8 test mules, these are present at the rear, which could be an indication of a rear-mounted single-motor or an AWD setup with dual motor layout. VW-sourced Mahindra’s INGLO platform supports both single-motor and dual-motor layouts.Apart from that, we can also see an independent rear suspension setup too. This will increase comfort for rear occupants. Rear independent suspension was on offer with Tata Indica and Indigo, but they are a rare find these days outside premium and luxury brands.What will it pack when launched?Mahindra XUV700 electric or XUV.e8 will pack Volkswagen-sourced MEB EV platform renamed INGLO. This is a modular and scalable platform that can be adjusted to suit a multitude of variations and applications. Mahindra has revealed battery sizes will be between 60 kWh and 80 kWh in size and will feature both single motor layout and dual motor layouts as well.It will pack all of XUV700’s strengths. We’re talking about ADAS tech, flush doors handles, 5-star crash-rated body shell, and an extensive features list including a panoramic sunroof, power adjustable driver’s seats with memory function, and a lot more. Mahindra’s XUV.e8 prototype in UK featured free-standing triple-screen layout on dashboard, which is highly likely to make it on production model.We don’t expect a lot of design changes to the main structure of XUV.e8’s body. Sheet metal body panels might be different and take on a wilder route. Mahindra XUV700 Electric prices could be around Rs. 30 lakh mark. Launch is expected to take place in late 2024 or early 2025. More

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      in Electric Cars

      Mahindra CEO shares BE.05 Electric SUV interiors first look – Looks slick

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      Mahindra BE.05 electric SUV coupeScheduled for launch in October 2025, Mahindra BE.05 electric SUV will rival the likes of Tata Curvv EV, Creta EV and Honda Elevate ElectricLast year in August, Mahindra had unveiled its upcoming born-electric range. There were two sub-brands, XUV (XUV.e8, XUV.e9) and BE (BE.05, BE.07 and BE.09). Among the two sub-brands, it’s the BE range SUVs that have a truly radical design. At the time of their unveiling, Mahindra had provided a clear roadmap about the launch of these new BEVs. With BE.05 test mule spotted on road tests, it indicates that Mahindra is keen on launching these electric SUVs as per the scheduled plan. Latest image gives us a sneak peak into the interiors of this futuristic Mahindra EV. The image was shared by Mahindra CEO, Rajesh Jejurikar. The images were clicked during a recent event, where Mahindra’s leadership team was driving this eSUV in Chennai city.Mahindra BE.05 – Captivating, futuristic designIn terms of its design, Mahindra BE.05 seems to have time-travelled into the 21st century from the future. With its radical design, BE.05 easily gets everyone’s attention on the streets. Most striking aspect is the front fascia, where the SUV gets massive C-shaped LED DRLs.Another key highlight is the layered design of the body panelling. As compared to smooth panels seen with other SUVs, BE.05 has aggressive cuts and creases all around. It gives the sense of a stealth aircraft with angular panels, designed to deflect radar waves.Mahindra BE.05 electric SUV coupeMahindra BE.05 is expected to have roomy interiors. The SUV measures 4,370 mm x 1,900 mm x 1,635 mm (L X W X H) and has a wheelbase of 2,775 mm. This seems adequate for comfortably seating five adults. BE.05 is expected to get a range of hi-tech features including ADAS.Mahindra BE.05 electric SUV coupeOther highlights could include a large horizontally-mounted touchscreen infotainment system, digital instrument console, premium sound system, wireless charging, wireless Android Auto and Apple CarPlay, ventilated seats, leather upholstery and dual-zone climate control. BE.05 will have embedded 5G network capability. Users will be able to access new features via OTA updates. The SUV will comply with the strictest safety standards, such as those defined by GNCAP.Mahindra BE.05 range, performanceMahindra born-electric SUVs will be based on the INGLO platform. Battery options will be available from 60 to 80 kWh. Range will be around 450 km. All Mahindra BEVs will support fast charging with a 175 kW fast-charger. With this, users will be able to load up to 80% in less than 30 minutes. This will go a long way in eliminating range anxiety. Users won’t have to worry about waiting for hours to charge their vehicle.Mahindra BEVs including BE.05 will be offered in both rear-wheel and all-wheel drive formats. Power output will be 170-210 kW and 250-290 kW, respectively. BE.05 and its siblings will be able to accelerate from 0 to 100 kmph in around 5 to 6 seconds.While it’s BE.05 that has been spotted, the first Mahindra BEV to be launched will be XUV.e8. It will go on sale in December 2024. BE.05 will come around a year later in October 2025. Similarly, XUV.e9 will debut in April 2025 and BE.07 in October 2026. Launch timeline of BE.09 is yet to be announced. More

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      in Electric Cars

      2024 Mahindra XUV500 Coupe SUV Spied – Or is it BE.05 Electric?

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      New Mahindra XUV500 Spied or is it BE.05 Electric Coupe SUV?It is likely that the test mule spotted is either new gen Mahindra XUV500 to rival Creta or BE.05, which is planned for launch in October 2025With the launch of XUV700, Mahindra discontinued XUV500. But they promised to bring the XUV500 back, in a new gen avatar, probably based on their futuristic BEV design language. Now, a test mule has been spied in Chennai, which could likely be the new gen XUV500 coupe SUV.It is also possible that this could be one of their new born electric SUV. Last year in August, Mahindra had unveiled its born-electric range. It includes the XUV range (XUV.e8, XUV.e9) and the BE range that has BE.05, BE.07 and BE.09. All of these are based on the born-electric INGLO platform. Apart from the new technology, the test mule also wears a unique, colourful camouflage wrapping. It is quite different from the usual black and white wrapping seen on Indian roads.2024 Mahindra XUV500 Coupe SUV or BE.05 Electric?As compared to the radical design of the concept unveiled last year, the test mule has transformed into a more practical form. While the core silhouette and design of the front fascia have been retained, the panelling is now a lot smoother. The concept version had deep grooves and sharp curves, which have been chiselled down a bit. However, BE.05 continues to have a sporty and unique styling, unlike any other Mahindra car in production right now.Some of the key highlights include C-shaped LED DRLs, sculpted tapering bonnet, squarish wheel arches and sporty alloy wheels. As compared to the concept that had camera-based rear-view assembly, the test mule can be seen with conventional ORVMs. At rear, some key features of BE.05 include a tapering roofline with sporty spoiler, prominent tail gate and full-width LED strip.New Mahindra XUV500 Spied or is it BE.05 Electric Coupe SUV?Inside, Mahindra BE.05 has two large touchscreens and sporty two-spoke steering wheel. The SUV has an aircraft-style large gear selector and a rotary control dial. The driver and front passenger area are neatly divided into two separate sections by the central console. BE.05 will have premium upholstery and soft-touch surfaces all around.New Mahindra XUV500 Spied or is it BE.05 Electric Coupe SUV?Mahindra BE.05 range, specsWhile official numbers are not available, it is expected that Mahindra BE.05 will have a range of around 400-500 km. Mahindra BEVs based on the INGLO platform will be powered by LFP battery packs. Both Blade and Prismatic cell architectures will be used. Battery packs will be in the range of  60-80 kWh. These are chargeable with high-powered 175 kW fast-chargers that can load up to 80% in less than 30 minutes.Underpinned by the INGLO platform, Mahindra BEVs including BE.05 are promising an exhilarating performance. Both rear wheel and all-wheel drive options will be available, generating 170-210 kW and 250-290 kW respectively. 0 to 100 kmph will be achievable in just 5 to 6 seconds.New Mahindra XUV500 Spied or is it BE.05 Electric Coupe SUV?BE.05 will be 4,370 mm long, 1,900 mm wide and 1,635 mm tall. It will have a wheelbase of 2,775 mm. All Mahindra BEVs will be getting a comprehensive range of advanced safety features. They will comply with leading safety benchmarks such as GNCAP. Equipped with 5 Radars-1 Vision ADAS architecture, Mahindra BEVs based on INGLO platform are future ready up to L2+ autonomy. More

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      in Bike

      2023 Hero HF Deluxe Launch Price Rs 60k – New Colours, USB Charging, Tubeless Tyres

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      2023 Hero HF Deluxe LaunchedUpdates to 2023 Hero HF Deluxe will allow improved competencies against rivals like recently launched Honda Shine 100One of the popular entry-level commuters in the country, HF Deluxe is the second bestselling bike in Hero MotoCorp’s portfolio. It is already a member of the 20-million sales club. With the updates, HF Deluxe will be looking to achieve new milestones and ensure a better overall experience for users.With new features, 2023 HF Deluxe has improved capabilities to take on rivals. It continues to be affordably priced, starting at Rs 60,760 for the kick-start variant. The self-start variant is priced at Rs 66,408.Hero HF Deluxe – What’s newFor folks who prefer sportier styling, Hero has introduced a new Canvas Black Edition of HF Deluxe. It’s essentially an all-black theme that covers the headlamp cowl, engine, leg guard, fuel tank, exhaust pipe, alloy wheels and grab rails. The handlebar, telescopic front forks and rear suspension retain the shiny chrome finish, creating an exciting contrast with the blacked-out theme. The Canvas Black Edition gets 3D HF Deluxe emblem on side panels, adding more character to the bike.2023 HF Deluxe also gets a new stripes portfolio, which is a new graphics theme for the bike. The new sporty graphics significantly enhances the bike’s visual appeal. The new stripes graphics can be seen on the headlamp cowl, fuel tank, side panels and under-seat panels. Users can choose from four different colour options under HF Deluxe stripes portfolio. It includes Nexus Blue, Candy Blazing Red, Heavy Grey with Black and Black with Sports Red.2023 Hero HF Deluxe LaunchedIn terms of equipment, HF Deluxe now offers a USB charger. Alloy wheels with tubeless tyres have also been introduced with Self and Self i3S variants. Other highlights include side stand indicator and toe guard. Hero is offering five years warranty as standard, along with five free services with HF Deluxe.Hero HF Deluxe – Performance, specsThere are no changes to mechanical aspects of the bike. Powering HF Deluxe is a 97.2cc air cooled, 4 stroke, single cylinder OHC BS-VI (OBD-II compliant) Programmed Fuel Injection engine with ‘XSens Technology’. Hero XSens offers a range of benefits such as high fuel efficiency, longer engine life, stable rides, effortless acceleration and minimal maintenance.The engine churns out 8.02 PS of max power and 8.05 Nm of peak torque. This is the same as that of 100cc Splendor Plus. The engine is mated to a 4-speed gearbox. Rival Honda Shine has a 98.98 cc engine, producing 7.38 PS and 8.05 Nm.2023 Hero HF Deluxe Launched2023 HF Deluxe is 1965 mm long, 720 mm wide and 1045 mm tall. It has a wheelbase of 1,235 mm. Seat height is 805 mm. With ground clearance of 165 mm, HF Deluxe can tackle a wide variety of terrain. The bike has a long seat length of 733 mm, which makes it suitable for pillion riders as well as for carrying heavy cargo. Kerb weight of 112 kg (self-start) ensures stability at high speeds. More

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      in Bike

      New KTM 390 Duke production starts – Gets bigger 399cc engine?

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      New KTM 390 Duke production startsThe new engine on 2023 KTM 390 Duke will probably displace 399cc as opposed to 373cc in outgoing model – 45+ bhp and 40+ Nm torque is possibleProspect of a new KTM 390 Duke is an exciting one. For there are a lot of updates coming with it. From a revised engine to new design, this 2023 update for KTM’s highest selling motorcycle is an important one. The updates on this will define other motorcycles like RC 390 and 390 Adventure as well.Launch seems to be nearing as there are more spy shots of production-spec models. The recent spy shot shows an uncamouflaged new KTM 390 Duke from the front at what appears to be Bajaj manufacturing plant in Pune. We can see a bunch of Pulsar motorcycles in the background.New KTM 390 Duke spied againThe last sighting of this motorcycle was abroad and on road and it didn’t feature camouflage too. Given the frequent sightings, we would wager that launch might be nearing. KTM is yet to disclose whether the new 390 Duke will debut in India or abroad.Regardless, we like what we see. KTM has stuck to its edgy design language but executed it differently with its latest iteration. There are multiple inspirations from the bigger 1290 Super Duke R. Even the new 390 Duke’s colour is a direct inspiration from Super Duke R. Headlights follow a similar theme as the outgoing model, but executed differently.New KTM 390 Duke production startsLED DRL signature is now not continuous as in the outgoing model and is an overall smaller unit. There is a new TFT display as well. KTM has placed it higher for easy visibility. Fuel tank is slightly different and gets pronounced tank shrouds. These lend a lot of character and aggression to the motorcycle. Frame and new 5-spoke alloys are finished in bright Orange, typical KTM.That said, both alloys and trellis frame are brand new along with rear subframe, split design seats and rear tail lights. There is a ‘T’ shape in the tail light LED signature that reminds me of TVS Ronin’s headlight LED signature. Disc rotors are now bolted directly on alloys and calipers are radially mounted too as before.Has displacement gone up to 399cc?The main change could be in its engine. A new engine architecture is evident from spy shots. Speculations suggest a larger 399cc displacement along with 45+ bhp of power and 40+ Nm of torque. For context, outgoing 390 Duke displaces 373cc and generates 42.9 bhp of power and 37 Nm of torque.Bump in features is likely too. We expect additions like traction control and cornering ABS, both of which are already present with RC 390 and 390 Adventure. Asking for wheelie control would be pushing it a little. That said, features like Quickshifter+ (bi-directional clutchless shifts), ride-by-wire, Bluetooth connectivity, will be on offer like on the outgoing model. More

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      in Electric Cars

      Tata Punch Electric production spec render – Minor facelift, New colours

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      Tata Punch Electric RenderExpected to be launched soon, Tata Punch EV will take on rivals such as Citroen eC3 and MG Comet EVElectric car segment is gaining traction and it’s good to see the rise in the number of options available to consumers. In terms of volumes, Tata Motors currently leads with market share of more than 75%. Tata is among the OEMs that were able to anticipate the shift to EVs. It is something similar to how Maruti saw an opportunity in CNG and has emerged a leader in that space.With more electric cars on the road now and several new models under development, it is imperative for Tata to expand its EV portfolio. Towards that end, Tata’s next offering will be Punch EV. Considering the immense popularity of petrol-powered Punch, it will be safe to assume that its electric version is primed for success.Punch EV styling and featuresPunch EV exteriors will be largely the same as its ICE-based sibling. Based on the leaked spy shots, Pratyush Rout has created a digital render of the upcoming Tata Punch Electric. Punch EV will continue with the same front fascia as that of petrol-powered Punch. It will have a charging port at the rear. In case of both Nexon EV and Tiago EV also, the charging port is located at the rear.Punch EV is likely to get some unique badging on the front grille that will indicate towards the car’s electric heart. As compared to the ICE variant, Punch EV could get other set of changes as well. For example, a recently spotted test mule was seen with rear disc brakes. Existing petrol-powered Punch has disc brakes at front and drum brakes at rear.Tata Punch Electric RenderFeatures on the inside will be largely the same as that of ICE-based Punch. It includes a floating 7-inch touchscreen infotainment system, 7-inch TFT instrument cluster, premium upholstery, flat bottom steering wheel, automatic climate control and Android Auto and Apple CarPlay.Tata Punch Electric RenderInteriors of the test mule revealed a rotary dial, which means the car could get an electronic parking brake. Nexon EV Max already has this feature. It works automatically by default and can also be controlled manually.Tata Punch EV rangeA range of around 300 km seems apt for Tata Punch EV. As Tata will be looking to achieve an affordable price point, a smaller battery pack could be used. The battery pack and electric powertrain could be borrowed from Tiago or a tweaked version could be used. For reference, Tiago EV is available in two range options, 250 km and 315 km.Tata Punch Electric RenderSome upgrades could be expected with Punch EV, as Tata has been consistently improving its Ziptron electric vehicle platform. Drive modes of Eco, City and Sport will be available. Talking about rivals, recently launched MG Comet EV can travel 230 km on a full charge. Citroen eC3 does better with a range of 320 km.Disclaimer – Design renders presented in this blog are solely for illustrative purposes and have not been commissioned, approved, or endorsed by the manufacturer. Designs presented here may not reflect the final product or the manufacturer’s intentions. The renders are provided as conceptual designs or artistic interpretations only, and their accuracy or feasibility cannot be guaranteed. More

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      in Bike

      New Harley Davidson X440 Debuts – Made in India by Hero MotoCorp

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      New Harley Davidson X440Looking at some of the images, it seems that Harley-Davidson X 440 has stupendous lean angles, which could translate to a sporty characterHero and Harley-Davidson partnership has unveiled their first new motorcycle – the X440. It will take on the Royal Enfield motorcycles upon launch. In typical American fashion, this affordable Harley-Davidson Roadster comes with a larger engine than Royal Enfield. Going by past Harley offerings, the 440 in X440 will be its displacement.It is a single-cylinder unit with oil-cooling setup and fins for air-cooling. Even though Hero MotoCorp manufactures it in India, Harley-Davidson likely designed the X440. Launch is still distant, but a starting price of Rs. 2.5 lakh (ex-sh) for a barebones model and Rs. 3 lakh for all the bells and whistles is possible.New Harley Davidson X440 DebutsWe see a lot of inspiration from Harley’s Nightster in its muscular fuel tank, round headlight, round speedo on top of its headlight, wide handlebars and minimal body panels. Headlight gets ring-like LED projectors with a horizontal pill-shaped element above them, reading Harley-Davidson.Circular turn indicators have a Harley-Davidson logo in them, a nice attention to detail. At the rear, there is a pill-shaped LED tail light. The circular instrument cluster seems to be a negative LCD unit. But we hope it is a TFT unit with Bluetooth connectivity enabling navigation, calls and notifications.New Harley Davidson X440From a lot of angles, this affordable Harley-Davidson looks like a smaller Iron 883. This might literally be true where the engine is concerned. Hero MotoCorp might use this new powertrain on their upcoming Xpulse as well.Powertrain & ComponentryMade by Hero MotoCorp in India, Harley Davidson X440 is powered by an air/oil-cooled single-cylinder unit with a single exhaust. We expect it to have a 4V head and make around 30 bhp and much higher torque (around 40 Nm), spread primarily in the mid-range. A 6-speed gearbox is very likely. Rear sprocket gets a chain drive, over a belt drive. Refinement could slightly take a hit.Componentry include USD front forks, single disc setup at both ends with dual-channel ABS and equipment by Bybre, twin shock absorbers at the rear, neutral footpegs, alloy wheels, 17″ rear and 18″ front alloy wheels. All this is mounted on a tubular trellis frame. A single stepped seat, blackened engine bay, blackened exhaust are notable elements.New Harley Davidson X440Foot peg positioning looks pretty neutral and slightly higher set. This should enable impressive (from Harley’s standards) lean angles. Street Rod 750 with 210 mm ground clearance is revered as the sportiest Harley. Maybe X 440 can match it.Launch & PricingGiven the larger displacement and Harley-Davidson badge, we expect it to be priced at around Rs. 50K to 80K more premium than Royal Enfield’s 350cc portfolio. That is not a bad proposition, considering Royal Enfield doesn’t pose the same novelty factor as it used to before with large volumes already on road.New Harley Davidson X440A base variant costing around Rs. 2.5 lakh and a top-spec variant costing around Rs. 3 lakh is a good proposition for Harley-Davidson X 440. Hero MotoCorp will be its official distributor in India. Harley-Davidson X440 is different than X350 and X500 motorcycles launched in China recently. Those are based on QJ motorcycles and are China-specific. More