Top Stories

Subterms

    More stories

    • 138 Shares139 Views

      in Bike

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

      by

      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

    • 150 Shares129 Views

      in Bike

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

      by

      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

    • 138 Shares99 Views

      in Bike

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

      by

      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

    • 138 Shares119 Views

      in Electric Cars

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

      by

      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

    • 100 Shares149 Views

      in Electric Cars

      Mahindra XUV700 Electric SUV spied testing in Chennai

      by

      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

    • 150 Shares169 Views

      in Electric Cars

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

      by

      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

    • 150 Shares139 Views

      in Electric Cars

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

      by

      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

    • 188 Shares169 Views

      in Bike

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

      by

      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