More stories

  • in

    2023 Royal Enfield Meteor 350 Spied Testing – Gets LED Headlight

    2023 Royal Enfield Meteor 350Meteor 350 could become the first 350cc motorcycle from Royal Enfield to feature an LED headlight setupRoyal Enfield rules the 350cc motorcycle segment. In April 2023, their sales in the 350cc segment were over 62k units. Despite having a market share of over 90% in the segment, Royal Enfield continues to be focused on updating their 350cc motorcycles.In comes MY2023 RE Meteor 350, spied testing for the first time. This particular test mule is based on top-spec Supernova trim, but features wire-spoke rims, a silver-finished engine bay and for the first time in Royal Enfield’s 350cc portfolio, an LED headlight. Let’s take a look at everything new.MY2023 RE Meteor 350 Spotted TestingWith this MY2023 update, Royal Enfield is aiming at adding a few more features to the Meteor 350. These new updates with Meteor 350 are likely to bring more retro-ness and classic-ness.We say this because Meteor 350 has always embraced a neo-retro cruiser look, instead of a classic cruiser look. Elements lending Meteor 350 a neo-retro appeal are alloy wheels and a blackened engine bay. Royal Enfield is bringing more chrome into the equation that will uplift its classic appeal considerably.2023 Royal Enfield Meteor 350More chrome is in the form of wire-spoke rims, engine bay finish (think Classic 350 Chrome Red) and headlight housing garnish. Adding more retro charm is an all-new front fender too. Rather, an all-new mud guard for the front fender brings an old-world charm of the yesteryears. Hat tip to automotive enthusiast Aditya Raja for sharing these exclusive spy shots.Mechanically similar to current modelThis new test mule is based on top-spec Supernova trim. Except for the new LED headlights, design changes and chrome additions are less likely to feature on Fireball and Stellar variants. Fuel tank is similar to the current model too. So, no 20L fuel tank like RE offered on the Thunderbird 350 and 500.Mechanically, the same 349cc J-series engine will power the MY2023 RE Meteor 350. Performance figures stand at 20.2 bhp of power at 6100 RPM and 27 Nm of torque at 4000 RPM, mated to the same 5-speed gearbox. The wire-spoke rim variant of Supernova trim along with new chrome additions will probably sell alongside existing variant with black engine bay and alloy wheel.2023 Royal Enfield Meteor 350While LED headlights will be part of the entire variant range. A small price hike could be associated with this update. Currently, Meteor 350 range costs Rs. 2.04 lakh for Fireball, Rs. 2.10 lakh for Stellar and Rs. 2.25 lakh for Supernova trims (all prices ex-sh). More

  • in

    Simple One electric scooter launched – Price, Range, Specs, Warranty, Battery, Charging

    2023 Simple One electric scooter launchedAfter a long wait, Simple One electric scooter is finally here – Delivery starts from 6th June 2023 in BangaloreOne of the most awaited electric scooter in 2023, Simple One electric scooter has been launched today at a starting price of Rs 1.45 lakh. While it seems like a late entrant in electric two-wheeler race, Simple One has potential to catch up with its range of segment-first features.Just like Ola, Simple One also has ambitious plans to emerge as a leader in electric two-wheeler segment. It will be a challenging task, but not completely out of reach. Electric two-wheeler segment has huge unlocked potential, which can be targeted by new brands. Simple One is aiming to scale faster to be able to become the number one electric two-wheeler manufacturer.Simple One electric scooterSimple One electric scooter styling and featuresSimple One electric scooter has a sporty, attractive design that will definitely find appreciation among younger audiences. The front fascia is especially fascinating and comes across as a compact version of a high-powered maxi scooter. The sharp cuts and grooves exude confidence and dominance, ensuring a strong street presence. The scooter is available in exciting colour options.Some of the key highlights of Simple One electric scooter include its triangular headlamp, prominent side panelling, compact visor, sleek turn signals and funky rear-view mirrors. The scooter has a flat seat design and offers a comfortable, upright riding stance. The entire seat is thick and wide, and long enough for proper pillion comfort. The scooter has chunky grab rails to provide adequate support to pillion riders during fast acceleration and deft manoeuvres across city streets.Simple One electric scooterSimple One is designed for everyday needs as well. There’s ample storage at the front for carrying a wide variety of items. The scooter also has 30 litres of under seat storage. This is big enough to accommodate a full-face helmet. Due to its unique design format exposing the rear wheels, Simple One has equipped the scooter with a saree guard.Simple One electric scooterSimple One electric scooter offers tons of tech including an intuitive smart digital dashboard, smartphone pairing, access to calls and music, screen customization options and turn-by-turn navigation. Users can access a range of connectivity features such as remote commands, remote locking, geo fencing, ride statistics, save and forward routes and OTA updates. Simple One mobile app will be available for both Android and Apple devices.Simple One electric scooter specs, rangePowering Simple One electric scooter is a 4.8 kWh battery pack. It connects to an 8.5 kW electric motor that churns out 72 Nm of peak torque. The scooter will be quite useful in city traffic, as it can accelerate from 0-40 kmph in just 2.77 seconds. Top speed is 105 kmph. Reaching home or office can also be achieved in quick time with a top speed of 105 kmph. The icing on the cake is a best-in-segment range of 212 km, which kind of eliminates the fear of getting stranded with a drained battery.Simple One electric scooterSimple One charging is via 750W charger. It takes 5 hours 54 minutes to charge the Simple One from 0-80% battery. Fast charging is possible, but will be launched in August. Speaking about warranty, Simple One vehicle / motor and battery warranty are at 3 years or 30k kms. Charger warranty is 1 year / 10k kms.Simple One electric scooter has patented CBS braking technology for handling its powerful performance. It has 12-inch wheels at both ends, shod with 90-90 tubeless tyres. The scooter complies with all the new safety standards, as mandated for electric two-wheelers. Simple One electric scooter has a challenging journey ahead, as it will take on popular brands such as Ather 450X, Ola S1 Pro, TVS iQube, Bajaj Chetak and Hero Vida. More

  • in

    New Hero Karizma ZMR Revealed Ahead Of Launch – Gets Sporty Stance

    2023 Hero Karizma ZMRNew-gen Karizma will be one of the several new products that Hero MotoCorp will launch to establish a strong foothold in 200cc+ motorcycle segmentWith premium motorcycle segment expected to register strong growth in the coming years, Hero MotoCorp is working on a bunch of new products. Some of these will be developed entirely by Hero MotoCorp, whereas others will be part of a joint venture such as the Hero-Harley partnership.One of the new Hero bikes will be new-gen Karizma, expected to be launched soon. It will take on rivals such as Bajaj Pulsar 250, Gixxer 250 and Dominar 250. Hero will be looking at a competitive price point for new-gen Karizma to ensure its success. Ahead of launch, Hero has now showcased the new Hero Karizma ZMR to dealers.New-gen Karizma ZMR to get more powerful engineNew-gen Karizma ZMR will be utilizing an entirely new platform and a new 210cc liquid cooled motor. While specs have not been officially revealed, new-gen Karizma could deliver around 25 bhp of max power and 30 Nm of peak torque. It will be mated to a 6-speed gearbox. The original Karizma bike was equipped with a 223cc air-cooled motor that produced 20 hp. It was quite popular for its peppy performance. Enthusiasts can look forward to some more exciting rides with the new-gen version.Hero will position Karizma as a value-for-money bike. It has to achieve a balance in terms of its pricing and available features. While essentials such as disc brakes and at least single-channel ABS will be there, new-gen Hero Karizma could skip out on features such as USD forks, ride-by-wire tech, slipper clutch, etc.2023 Hero Karizma ZMRFeatures that are likely to be available with new-gen Karizma include Bluetooth-based connectivity features, LED lighting and turn-by-turn navigation. The bike could get a full-digital instrument cluster.New-gen Karizma stylingWhile new-gen Karizma will be utilizing contemporary design aesthetics, some of the styling bits are expected to be borrowed from the original Karizma. The latter had sharp panelling and sporty graphics. Another of Karizma’s USP was its comfortable riding stance. Balance and handling were among the best, allowing enthusiasts to experiment to their heart’s content. New-gen Karizma is expected to have a similar set of attributes.Resurrecting Karizma seems like a good move, as the brand has high recall among enthusiasts. Overall design of new-gen Karizma will be a key factor in determining whether it’s a hit or flop with customers. As of now, Hero’s bestselling product in performance segment is XPulse 200 4V. There’s Xtreme 200S as well, but it hasn’t received the kind of response the company was aiming for.In its lifecycle, original Karizma had eventually faded away with availability of better equipped bikes. Uninspiring design of later models such as Karizma R and ZMR was also a reason for its decline. Hopefully, new-gen Karizma will have everything sorted out and primed to provide the impetus Hero is looking to achieve in premium motorcycle segment.Source More

  • in

    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

  • in

    Hyundai Creta Electric Spied While Charging Battery Pack

    Hyundai Creta Electric spied at a charging station in HaryanaThe same electric powertrain on Kona EV is likely to feature on the Hyundai Electric Creta – 327V architecture, 39.2 kWh battery, 134 bhp and 395 NmConverting ICE vehicles to EV has worked wonders in India. It is cost-effective and negates design, development and manufacturing of new vehicles. Tata follows the same strategy for its entire EV lineup. Mahindra employs a similar strategy with its XUV400, and soon to be launched XUV800.It seems like Hyundai is getting ready to offer us a new EV based on a similar strategy. Spy shots of a Creta EV on test have emerged on the internet. Considering that Creta is the best-selling Hyundai car on offer in India, it makes logical sense for them to launch an EV version of Creta. When launched, Hyundai is likely to price it from around Rs 20 lakh (ex-sh).Hyundai Electric Creta Test MuleLatest test mule of the Hyundai Creta EV was spotted in Karnal, Haryana. Hat tip to automotive enthusiast Manpreet for the exclusive spy shots. In these images, we can see a Hyundai Creta EV test mule hooked up to an EV charging station.For starters, there is no camouflage. Also, Hyundai is likely to offer different front and rear bumpers to establish design differences from its ICE counterpart. Creta EV test mule donned outgoing ICE-car bumpers as of now, but the production-spec version will be highly inspired by the recently spied Creta facelift test mule.Hyundai Creta Electric spied at a charging station in HaryanaAs this is a make-shift test model, there is no proper charging port. Hence, the engineers connected the charging cable by opening the bonnet. The production model will come equipped with a charging port, likely to be in the front.Powertrains shared with outgoing Kona EV?Looking at the front charging port configuration, we can’t help but wonder whether Hyundai electric Creta shares its powertrain with Kona EV on offer in India. Hyundai’s E-GMP platform underpinning the Ioniq 5, Ioniq 6 and Kia EV6 gets a charging port around the rear-right fender.If Kona EV’s powertrain is likely, we’re looking at a 327V architecture, 39.2 kWh battery coupled with a 134 bhp and 395 Nm electric motor. Hyundai claims 452 km of range on a single charge with Kona EV. Hyundai Creta Electric could have very similar power output and range specs.Hyundai Creta EV battery pack can be seen protruding in the spy shotOn the inside, it will be feature loaded with tech and safety. We’re talking about a panoramic sunroof, powered driver’s seat, ventilated front seats, a large infotainment screen with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, digital driver’s display, 6 airbags, ADAS features among others. When launched, it will rival the likes of MG ZS EV, Mahindra XUV400 and Nexon EV Max. More

  • in

    2024 KTM 390 Duke Leaks Ahead Of Launch – New Colour, Details

    With new 390 Duke, KTM is eyeing to provide a balance between city commutes, highway rides and the track racing2024 KTM 390 Duke
    With a price tag of Rs. 3.2 lakh, one might argue that KTM 390 Duke is not at all value for money. If you look at it to commute from point A to B, yes. It is not a good value for the price. But motorcycles like 390 Duke are not just about getting to point B, it is all about the way it gets there.
    With exceptional power : weight ratio and price : performance ratio, KTM 390 Duke is in a league of its own. This is the bike’s main draw. For 90% of the world’s motorcycle enthusiasts, this is capable of being the only motorcycle in their garage. KTM has revamped this pocket-friendly rocket and ahead of the official launch, first photos have leaked online.
    2024 KTM 390 Duke Leaks
    This is not the first time a new 390 Duke is spotted. We have seen camouflaged test mules regularly. But this is the first time that an undisguised photo of the new gen Duke 390 has been shared. This sheds new light on the motorcycle allowing us to get a better understanding of the design and equipment on offer.
    Even though the design has seen some changes, it still looks unmistakably like a KTM product. 2024 Duke 390 is sporting orange-coloured wheels with blue colour shade on the tank. KTM might offer white wheel colour, depending on a multitude of colourways. The next obvious design change is the subframe. It looks like it was heavily inspired by its bigger siblings like 790 or 890 Duke.
    2024 KTM 390 Duke
    Alloy wheels and front disc rotors are new. Rotors are now mounted directly to the alloy wheels. Calipers are radially mounted too. WP USD front forks are likely to be retained. Engine casing is new too, which is a clear indication of a new engine architecture.
    Earlier spy shots revealed that the swingarm is new, rear suspension duties are now tasked to an off-set mono-shock unit and there is a new tail light design. Other notable features include an underbelly exhaust, sharper headlight design, and large angular tank shrouds that extend to the front suspension giving it a lot of muscle to flex on its competition.
    2024 KTM 390 Duke – Price & Launch
    The new KTM 390 Duke is expected to displace close to 373 cc as before. It will be a single-cylinder oil-cooled unit making around 45 bhp and 40 Nm of torque as opposed to the outgoing model’s 42.9 bhp and 37 Nm. Weight can go up slightly as opposed to the 172 kg of the outgoing model.
    The 390 Duke is a very popular motorcycle around the world. New 390 Duke is expected to pack in an even more impressive power : weight ratio than before. We also expect improved electronics and driver aids along with a quick shifter, a larger fuel tank, improved traction, larger brakes, new infotainment display with more features, etc. When launched, it will compete with BMW G310R and Honda CB300R. Launch is likely to happen in the coming months. 2024 KTM Duke 390 prices are likely to remain same as current 390 Duke, in the Rs 3.2 lakh ex-sh range.
    Source More

  • in

    2023 Hero Passion Plus 100cc Launch Soon – Arrives At Dealer

    The Hero Passion Plus will re-launch in India with the same 100cc engine developing 7.91 bhp and 8.05 Nm, mated to a 4-speed gearbox2023 Hero Passion Plus 100cc. Image – Automobile Tamilan
    India is one of the largest two wheeler market in the world. Hero MotoCorp continues to dominate this market. They offer a slew of budget commuter motorcycles, which help them generate record breaking sales month after month. Some of their best selling motorcycles are Splendor, HF Deluxe and Passion.
    Despite the launch of new rivals, Hero continues to be at the top. Now, Honda has announced the launch of a new 100cc motorcycle, which will be their yet another attempt into ending Hero’s dominance. To counter the launch of this new Honda Shine 100, Hero MotoCorp is launching a new motorcycle as well, in the form of Passion Plus. Images are credited to Automobile Tamilan.
    Hero Passion Plus Re-Launch – Honda Shine 100 Rival
    Hero Passion Plus was discontinued in 2019, citing low demand. It was the 100cc offering of the Passion line, while regular Passion and Passion Pro are 110cc offerings. This move might be to counter the new kid in the budget commuter motorcycle block, Honda CB Shine 100. Passion Plus has already reached dealerships. Pricing will be out soon. Hat tip to
    In India, Hero MotoCorp has three lineups that classify all its motorcycles. They are Practical Line, Executive Line and Performance Line. Practical Line consists of 100cc offerings, Executive Line consists of 110cc and 125cc motorcycles and Performance Line gets Hero’s 160cc and 200cc lineup.
    2023 Hero Passion Plus 100cc
    Till now, Splendor is the most expensive offering in Practical Line. Hero Passion Plus will now take that spot, offering a slightly more executive appeal with a 100cc engine. This way, Hero offers three different models in the 100cc category. They are HF, Splendor Plus and Passion Plus. Diversifying its 100cc portfolio is the best bet for Hero to attract customers from jumping onto Honda’s ship.
    Features and Specifications
    Hero Passion Plus is likely to be the new flagship for Hero’s Practical Line. Followed by Splendor Plus, HF Deluxe and HF 100. Passion Plus will come equipped with the same 97.2cc engine generating 7.91 bhp at 8000 RPM and 8.05 Nm of torque at 6000 RPM. This engine gets a 4-speed gearbox unit.
    Instrumentation and features list is likely to be identical to standard Passion 110. We’re talking about a semi-digital instrument cluster along with a mobile charging port beside it. There is an analog speedometer along with a squarish LCD display. This display will show odometer readings, trip meters, fuel gauges and more.
    2023 Hero Passion Plus 100cc
    Hero’s proprietary i3S stop-start tech is present too. Fuel efficiency is likely to be Hero Passion Plus’ forte. There is no official figure as of now. But 60+ km/l of fuel efficiency is likely. Hero might launch an XTEC version in the future too, if demands exist. XTEC variant will get a fully digital instrument console with Bluetooth connectivity as well.
    How Much Does It Cost?
    Drum brakes at both ends, conventional telescopic front forks, twin shock absorbers at the rear, 80/100-18 tyres at both ends, and a long seat are expected componentry. Lighting involves halogens for headlights, tail lights and turn indicators. Apart from Honda Shine 100, Hero Passion Plus will rival Bajaj Platina 100 as well.
    2023 Hero Passion Plus 100cc
    2023 Hero Passion Plus 100cc motorcycle prices are not out yet. Bookings have commenced, though. It is expected to be priced aggressively. For context, Bajaj Platina 100 costs Rs. 52,915, Honda Shine 100 costs Rs. 64,900, Hero Splendor Plus costs 72,076 and Splendor Plus XTEC costs Rs. 76,346 (all prices ex-sh, Delhi). More

  • in

    Bajaj Triumph Scrambler Spied Ahead Of Launch – New Details

    With its compact, sharp profile, upcoming Bajaj-Triumph Scrambler can emerge as a capable challenger to Hunter 350Bajaj Triumph Scrambler Spied – Royal Enfield RivalBajaj has taken over Triumph India operations as part of the partnership deal signed. Later this year, we will get to see their first motorcycle, which is likely to be a Scrambler. While earlier test mules were spotted overseas, the new Bajaj-Triumph bike has now started its test runs in India.Launch is expected in last quarter of CY2023, as revealed by KTM CEO, Stefan Pierer. In an interview, Stefan had stated that Bajaj-Triumph partnership is not a threat to KTM. He had said that competition makes them better.Bajaj-Triumph Scrambler 400 bike – New detailsUpcoming Bajaj-Triumph bike is anyways not a rival to any of the KTM bikes. It will primarily challenge Royal Enfield 350cc bikes such as Hunter 350. From Bajaj’s perspective, this will be the company’s second attempt to take on Royal Enfield. The earlier attempt with Dominar didn’t quite create the kind of buzz Bajaj was aiming for.As the test mule has proper fit and finish and there doesn’t seem to be any temporary add-ons, it indicates that the bike could be nearing production stage. Upcoming Bajaj-Triumph bike has round LED headlamp, sleek turn indicators, classic fuel tank design, USD front forks, monoshock rear suspension, alloy wheels and blacked-out engine bay. Take a look at the detailed video shared by The Fat Biker channel.[embedded content][embedded content]Riding stance is fairly comfortable with centrally mounted foot pegs and slightly elevated handlebar. The bike has disc brakes at both ends and dual-channel ABS is expected to be offered as standard. In comparison to an earlier sighting when the test mule was seen with single-exhaust tips, this recent version has a dual exhaust tip. It seems to compliment the bike’s overall design and could be functionally relevant as well. It is possible that aural experience could also have been improved with the dual exhaust exit.Bajaj Triumph Scrambler Spied – Royal Enfield RivalOther key details include saree guard and pillion grab rail. The bike gets a twin-piece seat, which appears to be quite comfortable for the rider. However, the pillion seat section is a bit narrow. It could be okay for short rides, but doesn’t seem like a good idea for longer journeys. The test mule has Triumph accessories like soft top-box, saddle bag, tank bag, luggage mounts as well as protection parts.Bajaj-Triumph bike engine, specsIt is expected that upcoming Bajaj-Triumph range will have 250cc and 350-400cc versions. While official specs have not been revealed, the 250cc version could be generating around 30 bhp of max power. The larger 350cc bike will churn out around 40 bhp. The bikes will have features such as slipper clutch, liquid cooling, ride-by-wire tech and quick shifter. Connectivity features could also be on offer. In the spy video, we can notice an analogue speedometer, MID with gear position indicator, fuel gauge and tachometer.Bajaj Triumph Scrambler Spied – Royal Enfield RivalLaunch price of upcoming Bajaj-Triumph bike is likely to be around Rs 2 lakh to Rs 3 lakh. It is likely that multiple body styles such as roadster, scrambler, cafe racer and flat tracker will be available. Just like made-in-India KTMs, upcoming Bajaj-Triumph bikes will also be targeted at export markets. Harley Davidson has embarked on a similar mission with its entry-level motorcycle in partnership with Hero MotoCorp. More