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      in Electric Cars

      New Volvo EX90 Electric SUV Debuts – 480 Kms Range, Autonomous Driving

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      With a dual motor setup, Volvo EX90 SUV’s 111 kWh battery promises 480 km of range from a single chargeVolvo EX90 SUV DebutsSwedish brand, Volvo is synonymous with safety. The company has its roots firmly held in place in making family cars that are safe to the core. Volvo doesn’t shy away from demonstrating its safety aspects in innovative ways as well. For years, Geely-owned Volvo is neck deep in developing self-driving tech as well.In the push towards EV future, Volvo has promised one EV launch each year till the end of the decade. By that time, Volvo aims to only sell electric cars. In the company’s portfolio, this is equivalent in size and appeal to an XC90.Volvo EX90 SUV DebutsEX90 debuted in Stockholm today and it embodies Volvo’s design DNA and stays true to Volvo’s ethos. Some of which are minimalism, safety and progression. Volvo even claims that EX90 is their safest vehicle to date, thanks to tech that is set to get smarter and safer over time.Design-wise, it looks like what an electrified version of XC90 would look like. It ain’t no bad thing as XC90 had some of the best road presence despite being smaller than full-size SUVs like Cadillac Escalade. Front fascia now gets a closed-off grille and its whole minimalist design exudes class and sophistication.Volvo EX90 SUV 3-rowThor’s hammer DRLs now extend downwards and neatly merges into its bumper. Side-profile and rear profile are kept simple and are not likely to split opinions. Now might be the best time to address the elephant in the room. Volvo EX90 SUV comes with a bulb on top of its roof that houses its cameras, sensors, radars and other computing elements.It reminds us of the Black cabs of London, but this seems to be a conscious choice from Volvo. This position allows for a constant 360-degree view and spots objects and potential threats from hundreds of meters. EX90 SUV is the first vehicle from Volvo to come fitted with all necessary hardware to facilitate “unsupervised driving” in the future.Powertrain & FeaturesLike other Volvos, EX90 is starkly minimal and its center stage is a portrait-oriented 14.5” touchscreen system powered by Google software and has 5G connectivity and a phone key too. A landscape-oriented display forms its instrument console. The bulb gathers real-time data which is processed from a Snapdragon processor and visualised by Unreal Engine, a 3D tool on which many AAA game titles are also based.Volvo EX90 SUV InteriorEX90 is the first Volvo to get headrest-integrated speakers (usually associated with convertible cars) as a part of Bowers & Wilkins system. Owing to Volvo EX90 SUV’s massive size, a 111 kWh battery is offered which is based on a new platform. It makes 496 bhp of power and 910 Nm of torque from a dual motor setup.Company claims 300 miles (480 km) of range on a single charge. It is not yet certified though. There is no official charging power number. Volvo claims 10% to 80% in just 30 minutes from a fast charger, of course. Exact pricing is not known. However, Volvo states that a “well-equipped” trim will cost under $80,000 (approx Rs 65.34 lakh). Pre-orders are open and will be delivered in 2024. More

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      Tata Nexon, Tigor Electric Sales Milestone – 50k Production Record

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      Tata Motors announces the rollout of its 50,000th EV; Milestone reached ahead of target50,000th Tata Electric Car – Nexon EVIndustry forecasts point to a time when mass market electric cars will be commonplace in India. However, we are a long way away. While other southeast Asian countries could go straight from kei cars to electric cars, the journey here is yet to be defined. For now, Tata Motors leads with its growing product range.Going forward, the manufacturer is focused on a three-phased architecture approach for EVs. Plans are afoot to launch 10 EVs in 5 years. Following the launch of Nexon EV and Tigor EV, Tata Tiago EV is the company’s newest electric car offering.Tata Group EV ecosystemAnd together, Tata’s EV range has helped reach the rollout of its 50,000th electric car. And this as per the manufacturer, has come ahead of its target. Tata’s electric cars are manufactured at its Ranjangaon, near Pune facility.Shailesh Chandra, Managing Director, Tata Motors Passenger Vehicles Ltd. and Tata Passenger Electric Mobility Ltd. said, “As the pioneers of EVs in the country, the onus of ensuring successful adoption was on us. With a well calibrated product mix, strong consumer facing initiatives, we have been able to address barriers to EV adoption. We created an entire EV ecosystem with Tata Group companies to provide simple, cost effective solutions for our customers.”Tata Tigor Electric for fleet – Xpress T EV“Celebrating 50,000th EVs in India is a strong testament to how our portfolio is resonating with people across the country. EVs are offering a practical solution to problems of rising fuel price and worsening pollution. Customers are now ready to welcome EVs and we are thrilled to witness the transition from early adopters to now EVs becoming a mainstream choice for Indian customers.”This quickly evolving market has seen Tata improve its footprint.  Having entered 80 new cities, its network presence spans over 165 cities. An increased presence, more customers choose an electric car as a mode of personal mobility.High voltage Ziptron architectureTata has introduced features like Multi Mode Regen and Multi Drive Mode. Customers are being educated about best practices for driving EVs for optimal range. All Tata EVs are powered by its high voltage Ziptron architecture. A system that’s been driven and proven for over 450 million kms across diverse and challenging Indian terrains. Tata Motors offers software updates to existing EV customers for a renewed driving and ownership experience.  Given current trends, Tata Motors could very well be looking forward to manufacturing its next 50k cars much faster. Patterns now outline faster adoption of electric vehicles in India. The 50,000th car is a Nexon EV Max, the latest in the Nexon lineup with an increased drive range of 400 kms on a single charge. Nexon EV was first launched in January 2020. More

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      Meteor 650 Teased Officially – Will Be Revealed On Nov 8th

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      The same engine as Conti GT and Interceptor 650 will be offered – Meteor 650 teased officiallyMeteor 650 teased officiallyWith spy shots popping up every now and then, Royal Enfield seems to be under limelight all the time. We can’t blame them, though, as they’re prepping up 8 motorcycles to launch. You heard that right. 8! To list them all out, we have seen test mules of new-gen Bullet 350, Scram 450, Himalayan 450, Continental GT-R 650, Continental GT 650 facelift with alloy wheels, Meteor 650/Thunderbird X 650, Shotgun 650 and Scram 650.Out of breath already? Fret not. Royal Enfield is taking it slow to get these on the road officially. Meteor 650 teased officially is the first among these to come on stage. Speaking of stage, Meteor 650 will be unveiled at 2022 EICMA set to happen in Milan on November 8th.Meteor 650 Teased OfficiallyMost of the design is already revealed by innumerous spy shots. Despite that, Royal Enfield has only teased the rear section of Meteor 650. It gets a circular LED tail light that sits alone as its turn indicators are housed on either side of its rear number plate. This is exactly identical to Meteor 350.From the teaser, we can look at its curvaceous fuel tank that gracefully merges into the seat. A round offset instrument cluster is also visible in the teaser. This is the same analog-digital console that does duties on Meteor 350 too. Beside it, we get Royal Enfield’s Tripper navigation display as well.Royal Enfield Meteor 650cc SpiedThis tripper screen is likely to be an add-on. That being said, there’s a possibility that it would be standard fitment considering the expected Rs. 3.25+ lakh pricing. Another interesting development that can be extracted from Meteor 650 teased officially is its rear tyre. Which is Pirelli Phantom Sportscomp. We say it is interesting because test mules spotted in India were shod with Ceat Zoom Cruz tyres. Maybe it is only the posters and show vehicles that get Pirelli rubber.Specs & FeaturesMeteor 650 will get front USD forks and additional braces to position the forks perfectly. These aren’t present on Meteor 350. Headlight unit in the latest spy shots looks slightly different. Maybe RE is giving LED headlights. Maybe not. What is sure, though, is its immense road presence. Haathi doesn’t mind showing its curves, one bit.Propelling this massive motorcycle is a 648cc parallel-twin engine that generates 47 bhp of power at 7,150 RPM and 52 Nm of torque at 5,250 RPM. It is mated to a 6-speed constant mesh gearbox. RE will slightly tweak this engine to suit a cruiser’s character.Logically, the only competitor for Meteor 650/Thunderbird X 650 is Kawasaki Vulcan S. After EICMA, Meteor 650 will likely debut in India at 2022 Rider Mania held at Goa between 18th and 20th of November. More

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      2023 Auto Expo Participants And Not – Maruti, Hyundai, Tata, Mahindra, Kia

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      Auto Expo 2023 could be a lot smaller considering manufacturer participation looks alarmingly reducedShah Rukh Khan with the new 2020 Hyundai Creta at Delhi Auto Expo.Auto Expo, a biennial event is one that has for years been indulgent, filled with chutzpah, and indulgent of big names. Where automobiles dare, it’s the biggest showcase in the country. However, things are starting to look different. Scheduled for January 2023, the next Auto Expo already looks like its missing participants.  After the initial media days, Auto Expo is filled with activities, games, engagements, and showstoppers on two-wheels, and four. This to cater to the footfalls expected during the week. And as such, having a larger-than-life manufacturer presence is crucial to drawing in crowds.Auto Expo 2023 DatesFebruary 2022 was a miss owing to Covid-19 pandemic. The buildup to today’s problem isn’t one that cropped up overnight. Initially, Auto Expo was held at Pragati Maidan, in Delhi. This meant more footfalls. However, early in the last decade, the venue was shifted to India Expo Mart, Greater Noida.A newer structure that decidedly offers more parking space for visitors. Efforts have been made to run special bus services through the duration of the expo, as well as promo events to encourage Delhiites to use the Metro and visit.2023 Auto Expo Participants List – Not finalThe event was shifted to February at about the same time to reduce the chances of an event hidden within a fog, and to avoid the nail-biting chills. Increased traffic snarls owing to visitors was also listed as a reason. Well, this year, the event has again been preponed to January. Dates are 13-18 Jan 2023. Last time the Auto Expo was held in January, it was 2012.Two wheelers at Auto Expo 2023For those familiar with Auto Expo, there’s always the allure of a large two-wheeler display. Well, it now seems like not anymore. As strange as it sounds, Hero MotoCorp, Honda, Bajaj, TVS, and Royal Enfield are set to give the great auto extravaganza a miss. And since Hero won’t show up, neither will Harley Davidson. As a visitor, this already sounds like a big disappointment that will dampen enthusiasm.There is always a possibility that many newer electric two-wheeler companies attend but chances are slim. Paying for a stall at the Auto Expo is an expensive affair for manufacturers. In addition is the cost of logistics. And no, this isn’t part of a budget allowance that smaller electric 2W companies have. One can however still expect a large showing of independent e2W sellers with 1-2 scooter/bikes on display in the open stall halls.Cars at Auto Expo 2023As it stands, car manufacturers will show up in greater strength. But no, not all names we’re familiar with will participate. The big 3 in luxury, Mercedes-Benz, BMW, and Audi will skip. And so will Skoda, Volkswagen, Renault, Nissan, and Mahindra. Yes, Mahindra will not be present at the 2023 Auto Expo.Maruti Suzuki, Hyundai, Kia, Tata Motors and Toyota will show up. So will Lexus. There’s MG too. And folks will get a glimpse into BYD. CV manufacturers expected at the show are Ashok Leyland, Eicher, JBM, and Isuzu. SIAM and CII could be working with manufacturers over the next few weeks in attempting to coax them into participating at Auto Expo 2023.  More

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      in Electric Cars

      Mahindra Electric Pickup Truck Render – Based On New Design Language

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      The new family of Mahindra electric vehicles are based on a modular architecture and is estimated to have a driving range of over 400 kmsMahindra Electric Pickup Truck RenderBetween clearing up huge order backlogs of XUV700, ensuring the newly launched Scorpio N gets off on its feet smoothly, and tackling the chip shortage, Mahindra has its plate pretty much full. However, hectic day-to-day affairs doesn’t deter a big company from actively working on defining its future strategy.The Indian UV specialist took a step into a new era when they unveiled 5 new electric vehicles earlier this year. While Mahindra has been dabbling with EVs for several years now, the 5 new products could be considered as the first serious attempt to make a dent in the fast growing global EV segment.New Mahindra Electric Pickup Truck RenderThese five new Mahindra electric cars usher in the brand’s future design identity which is being redefined under the new leadership of Pratap Bose. The vehicles are designed by Mahindra Advanced Design Europe (MADE) and have global aspirations.Though none of them are electric pickups, Rushlane’s design specialist Pratyush Rout has created a digital render based on the same design language. If it ever enters production, the vehicle will be made in India and eventually be sold in the domestic market, the primary target market will be North America where electric pickup trucks are gaining traction briskly.Mahindra Electric Pickup Truck RenderThe confident-looking Mahindra electric pickup seems like it has got what it takes to stand shoulder-to-shoulder with the popular medium-sized pickups in the USA. Mahindra has finally decided to ditch the contentious Jeep-derived seven-slot grille design as it seeks to establish authenticity. Moreover, being EVs, the future Mahindras don’t really need a large air-intake area at the front.New design languageThe prominent LED lighting signature, new ‘M’ badge, high ground clearance, off-road tyres and a traditional double-cab profile render the truck an appealing road presence. Interiors and specifications will likely be similar to the new age Mahindra BEVs..These new Mahindra electric cars are likely to take advantage of the company’s recent partnership with Volkswagen which allows usage of certain critical components from the German carmaker’s MEB electric platform. This move will keep the development costs low and lead time short, giving Mahindra a competitive edge over rivals like Rivian R1T.The electric SUVs are currently being developed by Mahindra. Of the five, it is the Mahindra XUV700 Electric which is expected to be launched first. These five new Mahindra electric SUVs are expected to make their India debut at the 2023 Auto Expo in Jan next year. More

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      TVS Raider 125cc Top Variant Launch Price Rs 1 L – Voice Assist, Bluetooth

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      Targeted at younger audiences, TVS Raider 125 is gets Bluetooth-based connectivity features and a new 5 inch TFT displayNew TVS Raider Top VariantWhile new product launches in virtual world have been quite commonplace over the past couple of years, TVS is aiming for a more immersive experience with its own proprietary metaverse platform called TVS Motoverse. Users will be able to create their avatars and experience everything around them in a realistic 3D space.On TVS Motoverse, users will be able to get a better feel of the updated Raider 125. The experience will be similar to being present in-person at the launch event. With Motoverse, TVS has become the first two-wheeler manufacturer to have its own dedicated metaverse platform. At the new Raider 125 launch event on Motoverse, other exciting activities are planned such as gaming zones, tech review and music concert. Motoverse will host various other events and launches that TVS may plan in the future.TVS Raider 125 Top Variant FeaturesUpdated TVS Raider 125 is offered in two colour options of Black and Yellow. The most important update will be Bluetooth connectivity. It will be the first 125cc motorcycle to get Bluetooth connectivity with Voice assist, turn by turn navigation, etc.This new variant of Raider 125 will be getting TVS’ SmartXonnect connectivity platform, which offers a range of features. It is designed to make rides hassle-fee, safer and a lot more exciting. Price is Rs 1 lakh, ex-sh. This is about Rs 15k more than the base variant with drum brakes.New TVS Raider Top VariantTVS SmartXonnect is currently offered with TVS Ntorq 125, TVS Jupiter Grande, TVS Apache RTR 200 4V and TVS Apache RR 310. Some key features available under TVS SmartXonnect include SMS notification, caller ID, navigation assist, ride statistics, maintenance alerts, crash alert and last parked location. All these functions are available when the digital console is paired with the user’s smartphone via SmartXonnect app.TVS Raider PricesThis new variant gets a TFT display. Along with the usual stuff, display items include gear shift and position indicator, top speed recorder, average fuel economy and distance to empty. Price of the Raider base variant is about Rs 86k, mid variant is about Rs 94k and top variant is Rs 1 lakh. All prices are ex-sh Delhi.TVS Raider 125 has a sporty, youthful profile with features such as dynamic front fascia, sculpted fuel tank, body-coloured engine guard and wide handlebar. The bike has an upright riding stance and comes with comfortable split seats. Low seat height of 780mm ensures optimal control and handling.Updated TVS Raider 125 specsEngine will be same as earlier, a 124.8cc, air & oil cooled unit that generates 11.2 hp of max power and 11.2 Nm of peak torque. It is mated to a 5-speed gearbox. The bike has best in class power and powerful acceleration. It can reach 0 to 60 kmph in 5.9 seconds.New TVS Raider Top VariantA first-in-class feature is ride modes of Eco and Power. In Eco mode, users get a balance of power delivery and high mileage. In Power mode, the bike delivers faster acceleration and higher top speed. Other key highlights of Raider 125 include intelliGO platform that comprises silent start with ISG and engine auto start-stop.Mr. Aniruddha Haldar, Senior Vice President, Commuters, Corporate Brand & Dealer Transformation, TVS Motor Company, said, “The TVS Raider has become one of the most loved motorcycle since its launch last year, and continues to wow its riders who related to its wicked genre, distinct style and best-in-class features. TVS Raider is now entering its next phase with the TVS Raider SmartXonnectTM TFT variant which takes our commitment to delight and wow our customers, a step ahead. This variant adds to the motorcycle’s charm with a lot more first-in-class connected features including a TFT display, Bluetooth connectivity, voice assist and more.  With this update, TVS Raider will continue its wicked ride as the preferred choice of GenZ.” More

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      Bajaj DARKSTAR Name Registered – Pulsar Based Adventure Motorcycle ?

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      Bajaj Auto is working on launching range of adventure motorcycles – It is likely to be christened DARKSTARBajaj registers the name DARKSTARADVs are all the rage right now in 2W space. Even though they won’t challenge the sheer sales of a Splendor or an Activa, they are one of the most sought-after types of motorcycles. Especially for Indian conditions with not-too-delightful road conditions.In 4W PVs, pseudo SUVs have sprung up like clockwork. Similarly, in motorcycles, we have pseudo ADVs like Honda CB200X and the likes. These look like ADVs and offer a good stance, but don’t come equipped with off-road-worthy hardware.Bajaj Darkstar Name RegisteredBajaj is no stranger to pseudo ADVs. We got the AS200 which is well forgotten today. Dubbed as Adventure Sports, it was based on an NS200 and got a bikini fairing of sorts. Recently, Bajaj Darkstar name was trademarked which is speculated to be the Indian bike maker’s next ADV or pseudo-ADV based on Pulsar 250 platform.The trademark filed by Bajaj Auto has passed formality checks. Darkstar is likely to be the name of an upcoming motorcycle. There have been reports in the past which said that Bajaj is working on launching ADV motorcycles. It is likely that Darktsar is an ADV based on the new Pulsar 250cc platform.Bajaj DarkStar Name RegisteredWith demand for ADVs on the rise, a manufacturer like Bajaj Auto would not want to miss the opportunity. After the AS200, Bajaj never ventured into ADVs again. Currently, Hero XPulse 200 is the most accessible ADV / off-roader on the market. We also have Honda CB200X, Suzuki V-Strom SX 250, Royal Enfield Himalayan, and more.Bajaj already offers a wide variety of Pulsars today. We have regular Pulsar 125, a sporty NS125, Pulsar 150, NS160, recently launched N160, NS200, RS200 and lastly, based on the new 250cc platform, Pulsar N250 and F250. An ADV based on this new 250cc platform would make Bajaj’s portfolio stronger and hence reach a more customer base.What To Expect?This is not the first time an ADV by Bajaj is making news. There have been multiple rumours before, but nothing materialised. If Darkstar ADV does become a reality, there is a high possibility of it being offered with the new Pulsar 250cc platform instead of the KTM-derived 250cc engine that does duties on Dominar 250.Cycle parts are likely to be identical to the Pulsar F250. We do hope Bajaj considers offering a 19” front and 17” rear spoked wheel combo and slightly longer travel suspension forks. It would make a world of difference in beaten paths and will stand out from pseudo ADVs. We don’t expect 21” and 18” combo offered with XPulse 200 and even Rally Kit, even though it would be very nice.Pulsar 250cc twins make 24.5 PS and 2.15 Nm and are coupled to a 5-speed gearbox. It gets a slipper clutch and dual-channel ABS that are likely to be offered on the supposedly upcoming ADV from Bajaj. Until the company officially reveals further info, Bajaj Darkstar name will be a mystery. More

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      2023 Hero Xtreme 160 Spied For First Time – Pulsar, Apache Rival

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      While Hero is at the cusp of starting a new chapter by embracing e-mobility, it is also working on a new crop of flagship products2023 Hero Xtreme 160 SpiedNot long ago, a small fleet of camouflaged medium-displacement Hero prototypes with adventure tourer and supersport body styles were spotted testing in the mountains. It led to speculation that the two wheeler giant is working on 300 cc versions of its existing 200 cc nameplates like Xpulse and Xtreme.This was quickly followed by reports that these new models are powered by a 421 cc single-cylinder. Either way, it is obvious that Hero Motocorp is busy developing a medium displacement family of products in a bid to expand its horizons in the mid-premium segment.2023 Hero Xtreme 160 Spied TestingApart from developing all new motorcycles, Hero is also working on updating their existing range of motorcycles. Test mules of what is believed to be of new gen Hero Xtreme 160R, have been spied for the first time in Jaipur, Rajasthan.From what can be seen, the motorcycle’s styling conforms to the conventional street bike trend. By that we mean small LED taillight, bulky fuel tank with prominent cladding, minimal panels around the headlamp (most likely to be an LED unit), a rectangular fully digital instrument console and reasonably thick tyres.2023 Hero Xtreme 160 SpiedWhile the mid-displacement range of Hero motorcycles that was spied earlier was seen sporting inverted telescopic front forks, the Xtreme 160R new gen continues with traditional telescopic setup. Engine is likely to be updated to deliver better performance and mileage.In its current setup, the 163cc unit delivers 15 bhp and 14 Nm via 5 speed transmission. As far as the features are concerned, LED lighting, digital instrument console, alloy wheels, dual-channel ABS and smartphone connectivity are almost certain.On-paper specs and equipment list aside, Hero’s biggest trump card in a field full of very competent products is its network reach. But that has not helped them gain market share against the likes of arch rivals Bajaj Pulsar and TVS Apache. With the launch of new gen Xtreme 160, Hero will likely bring in some segment first updates to boost sales.When is it coming?In the short term future, Hero Motocorp is going to be busy establishing its recently launched Vida electric sub-brand which is crucial for its long term sustainability. Expect to see the new Xtreme 160R at the Auto Expo early next year. Until then, we expect regular public appearances of the test mules with more info about the specs trickling in. More