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      in Bike

      2023 Bajaj Pulsar 200 NS USD Forks Walkaround – Arrives At Dealer Showroom

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      Bajaj Auto has upgraded their Pulsar NS range of motorcycles with USD forks in the front – First batch has arrived at dealer showroom2023 Bajaj Pulsar 200 NS
      Bajaj Pulsar NS lineup has been one of the sportiest offerings in their respective segments. With aggressive styling and presence, they have captivated the Indian market fairly well. Now, Bajaj intends to expand this lineup’s presence by offering USD forks and dual-channel ABS on NS200 as well as NS160. After teasing these two motorcycles on their social media last week, the first batch has started to arrive at dealer showrooms.
      2023 Bajaj Pulsar 200 NS With USD Forks – Walkaround
      Thanks to Rash Gear channel, we now have a first walkaround video. For those who were expecting design changes, are going to be disappointed. As the new 2023 Pulsar NS looks the same as previous models, sans USD front forks.
      2023 Bajaj Pulsar 200 NS
      Speaking of NS200, it is the only one to get a dual channel ABS update as well. Pulsar RS200, which is a faired version of NS200, got dual-channel ABS long back, and it was high time Bajaj offered it with its naked sibling as well.
      With USD front forks, these Pulsars look more muscular than they already did. It almost feels like the Pulsar NS160 and NS200 hit the gym and are now flexing their triceps. With USD forks, the thicker part of the forks is now on top and has a greater surface area to clamp with the frame. This gives better clamping force, making the frame more cohesive.
      2023 Bajaj Pulsar 200 NS – Gear position indicator added
      In Brazil, Bajaj is offering larger 33 mm USD front forks with NS200 and smaller 31 mm USD forks with NS160. We can expect a similar strategy with India-spec models as well. By offering dual-channel ABS on Pulsar NS200 along with USD front forks, Bajaj is taking the fight to TVS Apache RTR 200 4V. Take a look at the Pulsar USD forks walkaround video below.
      [embedded content]
      Specs & Features
      Since it is 2023, we hoped Bajaj would offer some new features with this update. Features like Bluetooth connectivity with smartphone integration and GPS-guided turn-by-turn navigation. Or LEDs instead of halogens, maybe adjustable front suspension (offered on Apache 200 4V) and the likes. But that doesn’t seem to be the case. What we do get is an updated instrument cluster which now shows gear position.
      Pulsar NS160 still retains the 160.3 cc single-cylinder unit as before. Coupled with a 5-speed gearbox, it is capable of developing 17.2 PS of power at 9000 RPM and 14.6 Nm of torque at 7250 RPM. NS200 on the other hand is equipped with a 199.5 cc liquid-cooled engine making 24.13 bhp of power at 9750 RPM and 18.74 Nm of torque at 8000 RPM.
      Pricing for the updated Pulsar NS160 and NS200 are likely to go up by Rs. 5,000 to Rs 10,000. Current versions cost Rs. 1.25 lakh and Rs. 1.4 lakh each respectively. (prices ex-sh). More

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      Bajaj Pulsar NS 160, NS 200 With USD Forks, Dual ABS – Launch Teaser

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      Bajaj is getting ready to give a performance upgrade to their NS range of Pulsar 160 and Pulsar 200
      Bajaj Pulsar NS 160 USD and NS 200 USD launch soon
      Over the years, Pulsar has had a range of models on offer. Of these, NS 160 and NS 200 have been among the most successful. The NS Pulsar was launched back in 2012 in the form of NS 200, while the NS 160 was launched in 2017. Over the years, not much has changed with the two bikes. They continue to be on offer in an almost similar format as they were launched. But that will soon change.
      Bajaj Pulsar USD Forks – NS 160 and NS 200
      Bajaj will be launching the Pulsar NS 160 and NS 200 with USD forks in a few days. Ahead of that, the first official teaser has been released. The teaser video says ‘Rotate Your Phone’ and at the end it says – Muscular Styling Goes Upside Down. In between we get glimpses of the front wheel, USD Forks and the Pulsar NS in a new colour shade.
      [embedded content]
      This is not the first time we have seen USD forks on Bajaj Pulsar NS. Bajaj sells NS160 and NS200 with USD front forks in Brazil, where these two motorcycles have been launched as Dominar 160 and Dominar 200. Bajaj is offering 33mm USD forks with the larger 200cc model and 31mm USD forks with the smaller 160cc model. Same is expected to be on offer with 2023 Pulsar NS 160 and NS 200 upon launch.
      This update will add a lot of muscle to an already muscular NS200 and NS160. USD forks allow for a larger surface point for clamping. Hence the overall cohesiveness of the chassis is improved. This enables a better front-end feel and corner-carving capabilities.
      2023 Bajaj Pulsar NS – Dual ABS
      New Bajaj Pulsar NS160, NS200 – Performance Upgrades
      This update will definitely suit the Pulsar NS range. Speaking of the NS200, it is pitched as a sporty machine with upmarket features like liquid cooling and a 6-speed gearbox. Apart from the USD forks, Bajaj is also adding dual-channel ABS. This is a much needed update.
      Bajaj already offers Dual ABS with Pulsar RS200. With these new additions, Pulsar NS200 will be a formidable contender to TVS Apache RTR 200 4V. Other rivals include Honda Hornet 2.0 and KTM 200 Duke.
      Specs and Price
      Ever since its launch in 2012, Pulsar NS200 has been one of the most talked-about motorcycles in the industry. It had the same engine as KTM Duke 200 along with liquid cooling and a 6-speed gearbox for far less money. Despite making zero changes to the design since launch, it is still one of the wildest-looking motorcycles. It offers stupendous ergonomics for tall riders and a sporty stance.
      Powering Pulsar NS200 is a 199.5 cc single-cylinder engine with 24.13 bhp at 9750 RPM and 18.74 Nm of torque at 8000 RPM. It gets a 6 speed transmission. Pulsar NS160 is powered by a 160.3cc single cylinder engine delivering 17.2 PS power at 9000 rpm and 14.6 Nm torque at 7250 rpm. It comes with a 5 speed transmission. Prices of the Pulsar NS 160 USD and Pulsar NS 200 USD will be about Rs 5-10k more than the outgoing versions, which are priced at Rs 1.25 lakh and Rs 1.4 lakh respectively (ex-sh) More

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      New Harley Davidson 350cc Fully Revealed – Royal Enfield Rival

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      To ensure affordable pricing, Harley-Davidson X350 and X500 won’t be getting any of the advanced riding aids, as available with larger capacity Harley bikesNew Harley Davidson 350ccWith its newest entry-level neo-retro roadsters, Harley-Davidson is all set to slug it out in the burgeoning Chinese auto sector. Scheduled for launch on March 10 as per teasers, the new Harley bikes X350 and X500 have been developed in collaboration with Chinese giant Qianjiang Motorcycle. These bikes will be largely ‘Made in China’ products with Harley branding and some of its signature features. Both will be sold globally. First units have now arrived in the USA.Harley-Davidson X350, X500 leakedAhead of their launch, new details have been revealed about Harley-Davidson X350 and X500. Unlike the V-Twin engine that’s commonly used with most Harley-Davidson motorcycles, the new X350 and X500 bikes are equipped with liquid-cooled, parallel-twin engines. It may not resonate with Harley’s pedigree, but can be useful in terms of achieving a competitive price point for these bikes.New Harley Davidson 350ccNames of these new Harleys pretty much reveal their displacement, although official specs have not been revealed. Considering QJ Motor’s existing bikes of similar capacity, a reasonable guess would be power output of around 30-35 hp for X350. In comparison, the larger capacity X500 could generate around 50 hp of max power. Both bikes are expected to be equipped with a 6-speed gearbox.To reduce production costs, Harley-Davidson X350 and X500 share several of the hardware components. Some key highlights include USD forks, offset monoshock rear suspension, dual discs at front and dual-channel ABS.New Harley Davidson 350ccX350 has petal discs whereas its larger capacity sibling utilizes conventional discs. The bikes have chain drive, which is likely to reduce maintenance cost. Tackling rough conditions will also become easier with a chain drive setup.Harley-Davidson X350, X500 stylingBoth bikes have neo-retro roadster styling, with some elements inspired from Harley-Davidson XR1200. Key features include circular LED headlamp, halogen turn indicators, round rear-view mirrors, classic fuel tank design and underbelly exhaust. Users can expect comfortable rides with ergonomically positioned handlebar and centrally mounted foot pegs.Harley-Davidson X350 and X500 have a circular semi-digital instrument pod. The display is fairly simple with an analogue speedometer and small rectangular LCD display. The semi-digital setup indicates that the new Harleys won’t be getting advanced connectivity features.Apart from China, Harley has plans to target the fast-growing middleweight segment in India as well. Here, the American manufacturer has a JV with Hero MotoCorp. The strategy will be largely the same as being used in Chinese market. Bikes from Harley-Hero partnership will primarily rival Royal Enfield and upcoming Bajaj Triumph motorcycles. It will be interesting to see if Harley-Hero bikes can successfully dent Royal Enfield’s market share and cult-like fan following.Source More

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      TVS 650cc Motorcycle Under Development – Royal Enfield Rival

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      TVS new flagship motorcycle will have a twin-cylinder engine and a range of hi-tech equipment and connectivity featuresTVS owned Norton MotorcyclesWith lifestyle segment registering strong growth, TVS is looking to aggressively target this space. TVS may be a late entrant, but there’s always space for a good product that ticks all the right boxes. As of now, Royal Enfield 650 twins dominate the lifestyle segment in terms of volumes. RE deserves a pat on the back for its visionary ability to launch products that are future-ready.TVS new 600-750cc bike will also be a great option for loyal TVS customers looking for an upgrade. Presently, choices don’t go beyond the 310cc Apache RR310. It’s sort of a lost opportunity for the company, especially considering the fact that an increasing number of enthusiasts are moving to 500+ cc segment.TVS 650cc Motorcycle LaunchDevelopment of TVS new 600-750cc bike is already underway. However, there is no official confirmation from TVS on such developments. Just like rival offerings, TVS new flagship will have a twin-cylinder motor. Power and torque output could be close to or better than rivals. For reference, Royal Enfield 650 twins produce 47 hp of max power and 52 Nm of peak torque.It remains to be seen what body style TVS chooses for its new flagship. There could be multiple body styles launched simultaneously or TVS could start with a single offering such as a roadster. Based on market response, TVS could consider other body styles based on the same platform. It could include scrambler, cafe racer, ADV, etc.TVS will definitely need multiple products in 600-750cc segment, as rivals like Royal Enfield are consistently expanding their portfolio in this space. After Super Meteor 650, Royal Enfield will add other 650cc bikes such as Shotgun 650, Himalayan 650 and Classic 650. TVS new flagship will also go up against the upcoming 650cc bikes from Jawa and Yezdi.It remains to be seen if TVS will go solo or seek collaboration with another entity for the development of its new flagship 600-750cc motorcycle. TVS had purchased British brand Norton Motorcycles in April 2020. Norton already has many big bikes on offer. It is likely TVS will use Norton expertise for their upcoming motorcycle.Transition to a lifestyle brandTVS has already started taking steps to position itself as a lifestyle brand. This is evident with products like Ronin and increased focus on community-based events. At the recently concluded 2023 MotoSoul, TVS had showcased four fascinating custom builds of Ronin. An updated connectivity platform was also unveiled at the event. Contribution of TVS Racing can be seen in the form of launch of a new type of racing format called Flat Track Racing.TVS Racing Performance Gear division will also have a key role to play in passive promotion of the new bike. All these initiatives will help create a conducive environment for launch of the new TVS flagship. TVS already has 2.5 lakh members in AOG (Apache Owners Group), many of whom may choose to upgrade to the new 600-750cc bike.Source More

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      2023 Hero Super Splendor XTEC BS6 II Launched – New Features, Colour

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      New Super Splendor XTEC BS6 Phase II gets LED headlamp, new colour, full digital instrument cluster and a range of cosmetic touch-ups2023 Hero Super Splendor XTEC BS6 II2023 Hero Super Splendor XTEC BS6 Phase II has been launched. First units have started arriving at dealerships. Users can expect an improved overall experience, as the bike packs in a comprehensive range of premium updates.New Super Splendor XTEC BS6 Phase II is expected to be priced higher than the outgoing model. The updates should allow for improved competencies against rivals such as Honda Shine, TVS Raider and Bajaj CT 125X.2023 Hero Super Splendor XTEC BS6 IISuper Splendor XTEC BS6 Phase II – what’s new?Among the most noticeable updates are the LED headlamp and LED DRL. It’s a 2-level LED headlamp with integrated low beam and high beam. The two sections of the headlamp are separated by the LED DRL placed in between. The LED DRL has an always-on feature, which means it is activated as soon as the keys are turned on. The engine is not required to be turned on for the LED DRL to work.Other lighting pieces such as turn indicators and tail lamp continue to have halogen bulbs. With the updated lighting at front, the headlamp cowl and visor have also been updated. Another big improvement comes in the form of a full digital instrument console. It appears to be the same unit, as seen with Splendor Plus XTEC variant. Take a look at the detailed walkaround by Biker Mjk 2.[embedded content][embedded content]The digital speedometer has Bluetooth connectivity and can be used for call and SMS alerts when paired with the user’s smartphone. Users can see a range of information such as real time mileage and indication for side stand, low fuel, high beam and i3S.With the change in lighting setup and new full digital speedometer, the wiring has also changed on the new Super Splendor XTEC BS6 Phase II model. Spaces around the digital speedometer have been updated and there’s a USB charging port as well.In terms of cosmetic updates, there’s a new colour and updated graphics and stickering. The Super Splendor logo on the fuel tank has a 3D design. Exhaust pipe has been updated and it is now a slimmer unit in comparison to the earlier model. Aural experience also seems to have been improved.2023 Hero Super Splendor XTEC BS6 IISuper Splendor XTEC BS6 Phase II performanceEngine is the same as earlier, with the only difference that it has been updated to comply with BS6 Phase II emission norms. The bike is powered by a 124.7cc air-cooled motor that generates 10.7 bhp of max power and 10.6 Nm of peak torque. It is mated to a 5-speed gearbox. New Splendor XTEC supports E20 ethanol-blend fuel, which makes it future-ready. It is likely that relevant tweaks have been incorporated in the engine to make it E20 ready.While official details are not available right now, Hero Super Splendor XTEC BS6 Phase II could deliver mileage of around 60+ kmpl. In heavy-traffic usage, mileage could be around 50+ kmpl. Prices will be announced in coming days. More

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      in Electric Cars

      Citroen C3 Electric Launch Price Rs 11.5 L To 12.43 L – Vs Tiago EV

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      The 29.2 kWh battery pack on Citroen eC3 is coupled with a electric motor developing 56 bhp and 143 Nm, enough to eek out 320 km of rangeCitroen C3 Electric Launch PriceAfter Citroen’s innings began in the entry segment with C3 hatchback, the French brand is now expanding its lineup to include an EV as well. This is Citroen’s maiden EV in India and the first French EV to hit our shores. Specs were out long ago and bookings had commenced too. Now, prices have been revealed.The affordable EV space is still quite young and Tata Motors has the most prominence. With Tiago EV, Tigor EV and Xpres-T, Tata Motors seems to have captivated both PV and CV segments. Citroen eC3 has to offer quite a lot to carve a piece of this pie.Citroen eC3 PricesCitroen eC3 has been launched with a price tag starting from Rs. 11.5 lakh (ex-sh) for base Live trim. Top-spec Feel trims with dual tone colour and Vibe Pack cost Rs. 12.43 lakh. When compared to its ICE counterpart, C3 hatchback, eC3 costs Rs. 5.52 lakh more with base variants and Rs. 5.23 lakh more with top-spec variants.Specs & features are almost identical with its ICE counterpart. We’re talking about the same design along with dimensions. This helps Citroen to reduce development costs and help price its products aggressively. But is it aggressive enough? Let’s take a look.Citroen C3 Prices – Petrol, Turbo, ElectricCitroen C3 Electric Prices vs Tiago EVIt primarily rivals Tata Tiago EV starting from Rs. 8.69 lakh (ex-sh) for 19.2 kWh battery pack variants, Rs. 10.19 lakh (ex-sh) for 24 kWh variants with 3.3 kW AC charger and Rs. 11.49 lakh (ex-sh) for 24 kWh battery pack variants with 7.2 kW AC charger. Tiago EV has four trim levels to choose from as opposed to two with eC3.Powertrain options are two along with two charger options. In total, Tiago EV spawns 7 variants. Whereas eC3 gets just one powertrain and two trim levels with cosmetic choices like dual tone and Vibe Pack. Right off the bat, it is immediately noticeable that Tiago EV comes with more options to choose from.  Tiago EV’s top-spec trim XZ+ Tech LUX with 24 kWh battery and 7.2 kW charger is just Rs. 49,000 more than Citroen eC3’s base variant.  Citroen C3 Electric vs Tata Tiago EV – PricesSpecs & FeaturesIt is safe to say that Tata has got the pricing right. Does Citroen eC3 offer more style and substance? Design is objective and hence depends on the buyer. But spec-wise, Citroen seems to be offering more. For starters, eC3 is 212mm longer, 56mm wider, and 50mm taller. It has a 140mm longer wheelbase, 4mm more ground clearance and a 75L larger boot than the Tiago EV.It has wider 195-section tyres wrapped to 15” wheels as opposed to 175-section with 14” wheels on Tiago EV. Powertrain-wise, eC3 offers 5.2 kWh more battery capacity and 29 Nm more torque than Tiago EV’s larger 24 kWh offering. Tiago EV hits back by making 18 bhp more and sprinting 1.1s quicker to 60 km/h. Tiago EV can hit 120 km/h as opposed to 107 km/h of eC3.Citroen C3 Electric vs Tata Tiago EV – SpecsRange tips slightly towards eC3’s favour with just a 5 km difference over Tiago EV’s 315 km. Citroen eC3 offers a larger 10.25” touchscreen as opposed to 7” unit on Tiago EV and also gets wireless Android Auto and Apple CarPlay system. There is decent competition between the two. It is yet to be seen how the market responds to this duo.Saurabh Vatsa, Brand Head, Citroen India, remarked, “We are excited to launch the New Citroen eC3 All-Electric for the young and progressive customers who will  enjoy the CLEVER, COMFORT & COOL product propositions. The vehicle was developed keeping in mind the Indian audience and their unique needs and preferences.Citroen C3 Electric vs Tata Tiago EV – SpecseC3 delivers a certified driving range of 320 km per charge (MIDC cycle), 100% DC fast charging capability, and a plethora of intuitive technology-driven features. With the famed Citroen Advanced Comfort on board combined with an efficient e-powertrain, we are certain that the New Citroen eC3 All-Electric will meet the expectations of both private customers’ and fleet operators.” More

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      2023 Honda CB350 Cafe Racer Showcased To Dealers – New Launch Soon

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      After CB350 and CB350 RS, Honda will add 3rd motorcycle in their 350cc range next month2023 Honda CB350 Cafe RacerHonda launched the CB350 back in Sep 2020. In the initial months, it had registered good response from bike enthusiasts. Later in Feb 2021, Honda launched a scrambler version based on the CB350, called CB350 RS. Despite two motorcycles on offer in the 350cc range, Honda has not come anywhere close to sales numbers registered by Royal Enfield.In Jan 2023, Royal Enfield registered sales of over 26k units for their Classic 350. While sales of Honda CB350 range was 1,086 units. To bring a boost to their sales in the 350cc range, Honda is getting ready to launch a new motorcycle next month.Honda CB350 Cafe RacerTo provide more options to customers in the 350cc segment, Honda will soon launch a new cafe racer motorcycle based on CB350. Honda has chosen to challenge Royal Enfield and this new motorcycle is expected to improve its prospects in this space.Likely to be called Honda CB350 Cafe Racer, the motorcycle has been showcased to dealers. Launch is expected next month. It will come with Cafe Racer style single seat, revised headlamp cowl, black alloys, black engine with chrome Honda logo, etc.2023 Honda CB350 Cafe RacerSpeaking of the new Honda CB350 Cafe Racer, the motorcycle sports a neo-retro look. Some key features include round headlamp, sculpted fuel tank, single piece seat, chrome finish exhaust, alloy wheels, an all-LED setup and semi-digital instrument cluster. It also has a smartphone charging USB port.2023 Honda CB350 Cafe RacerCB350 Cafe Racer powertrainHonda’s 350 cc Cafe Racer will use the same engine as that of CB350. It is rated to deliver 21.07 ps @ 5500 rpm and 30 Nm @ 3000 rpm. It is mated to a 5-speed gearbox. The motorcycle will also be sharing a number of other components with CB350. This will help Honda to reduce costs and improve production efficiency.Just like CB350, its cafe racer version could be equipped with assist and slipper clutch, dual channel ABS, Honda Selectable Torque Control (HSTC), and Honda Smartphone Voice Control system (HSVCS).2023 Honda CB350 Cafe RacerThe instrument console could also be the same, which displays a range of information such as average mileage, real time mileage, gear position indicator, distance to empty, and battery voltage. Expect prices to be in the Rs 2.2 lakh to Rs 2.3 lakh range, ex-sh. More details to be revealed at the launch event next month. More

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      New Ather Electric Scooter Spied – May Get Under Rs 1 L Price

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      With a steel tubular frame, smaller battery and a less powerful motor, Ather’s new affordable scooter might be priced under Rs. 1 lakhNew Ather Electric Scooter SpiedIn the first phase of EV revolution we saw manufacturers launching loaded, feature rich variants. In the next phase, we are seeing introduction of more affordable variants. Lower pricing is achieved via installing a smaller battery pack, fewer features, etc.Ola has successfully entered step 2 with S1 Air. As announced recently, Ola is offering S1 Air with 2 kWh, 3 kWh and even 4 kWh battery options. Prices range between Rs. 84,999 and 1,09,999 (ex-sh). Ola’s rival, Ather is getting to launch a more affordable version of their electric scooter.Ather’s New Affordable ScooterA new test mule of Ather electric scooter has been spied in BTM Layout, Bangalore. Hat tip to automotive enthusiast Thushar for sharing the exclusive spy shot. It is likely to be of the upcoming entry variant of Ather electric scooter. The new test mule is starkly identical to existing Ather 450.Battery size is likely to go down as opposed to the 3.7 kWh unit on existing 450X Gen 3. With Gen 3, Ather promises a 146 km range and a 105 km true range. Ather’s new affordable scooter might promise slightly lesser range, albeit with a less powerful motor. Expect the 7” touchscreen with Google integration will be retained.New Ather Electric Scooter SpiedLast month, Ather launched Gen 3 of their electric scooters. Under this, the 450 Plus is priced at Rs 1.9 lakh while the Ather 450X is priced at Rs 2.13 lakh. These are ex-sh prices excluding FAME-II subsidy of Rs 55,000. With the subsidy, prices come down to Rs 1.35 lakh and Rs 1.58 lakh, ex-sh. The upcoming new Ather electric scooter is likely to get a price tag of under Rs 1 lakh, ex-sh, inclusive of subsidy.Phase II Of Battery Safety NormsPhase II of the new battery norms set by MoRTH will come into effect from April 2023. The enforcement is due to the high number of EV fire incidents reported, likely due to improperly designed batteries. Come April 2023, EV manufacturers have to meet Amendment-3 proposed to AIS 156 and AIS 038 Rev.2 across L, M and N categories.Amendment-3 of the said AIS, as issued by MoRTH, was in two phases. Phase I was in effect from 1st December 2022 and Phase II is set to take effect from 31st March 2023. Electric scooters fall into L category and should meet the new battery norms set forth by a panel under Amendment-3.Ather Electric Scooter Prices – Feb 2023Since the new changes to battery tech will add cost, Ather might strike out some elements on this upcoming budget scooter. Main among those will be 450X’s aluminium space frame. New chassis features a tubular frame that is more economical to fabricate.The chassis has seamless tubes of steel bent and welded to form a simple tubular frame. Battery placement is still in the floorboard. With FAME II subsidies expiring from March 31st 2024, EV manufacturers have to work towards expanding their scale of manufacturing to bring prices down. More