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      Royal Enfield Himalayan 450 Exhaust Spied For First Time

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      Royal Enfield Himalayan 450 caught testing once again on the road – A major departure from the Himalayan 411New Royal Enfield Himalayan 450Royal Enfield is developing the new Himalayan 450, designed for both India and the world. The motorcycle was recently caught testing again, this time by automotive enthusiast Bibin Benny Mathew. Thanks to camouflage, most of the design is still not completely visible. But from what we can see, it is going to get an all new design.Royal Enfield Himalayan 450 – What to expect?Upcoming Himalayan 450 is expected to come with a newly developed engine, displacing around 450cc. Power and torque output numbers are not revealed yet, but it could be developing around 40 bhp and 45 Nm of torque.A 6-speed gearbox will make it to the Himalayan 450. Unlike the 5-speed unit found on the more off-road oriented Himalayan 411. On the features front, we can expect a host of electronic packages from Royal Enfield like ride-by-wire, riding modes, tripper display for Bluetooth connectivity and navigation.New Himalayan 450 comes with a tubular frame at the front to hold jerry cans. A tubular frame at the back for mounting luggage. The motorcycle also gets a front beak to complete the adventure-tourer look.New Royal Enfield Himalayan 450The seat on the Himalayan 450 is a split unit and looks large enough to offer good riding comfort. The Rider’s triangle seems to be different than current Himalayan. The footpegs of Himalayan 450 look a little too rear set for a hardcore off-roader. The Himalayan 411 gets centre-set footpegs for comfortable touring and for maneuvering the motorcycle while standing up. The Himalayan 450 seems to have a slightly committed riding position.Royal Enfield Himalayan 450 Exhaust DesignThe upcoming REH 450 will feature an exhaust system which has not been seen on any Royal Enfield motorcycle. The design is somewhat similar to those seen on KTM Duke and Adventure motorcycles. Even the design of engine block is quite different, which we have not seen on other RE motorcycles.It is is expected to get similar wheels and tyre combinations to the Himalayan 411 with a 21” wheel at the front and 17” at the rear. We can also expect a slightly bigger fuel tank than the Himalayan 411. The Himalayan 450 might not get switchable ABS like the Scram 411.New Royal Enfield Himalayan 450Himalayan 450 test mule is seen with vertically laid-out instrument cluster. Speaking about suspension setup, in the front it gets USD forks and the rear is suspended via a monoshock. USD forks will likely make the motorcycle nimble in terms of handling, as will have a tighter chassis mount at the front.Pricing and launch details are unknown. Launch of Royal Enfield Himalayan 450 might result in the company discontinuing existing Himalayan and become the most powerful single-cylinder motorcycle in Royal Enfield’s stable. More

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      Royal Enfield Shotgun 650cc Bobber Spied – New LED Headlight

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      Royal Enfield has plans to introduce multiple new 650cc motorcycles including Shotgun, Super Meteor 650 and a cruiser bikeUpcoming Royal Enfield 650cc Bobber SG650With 650 twins registering strong sales in domestic as well as international markets, Royal Enfield will be aiming to further strengthen its presence in this space. Towards that end, at least three new 650cc motorcycles will be launched. One of these is Shotgun 650 that was unveiled as SG650 concept at 2021 EICMA. New 650cc bikes will also help Royal Enfield to manage threats from rivals such as the upcoming BSA Gold Star 650.Shotgun 650 has been spotted on road tests in India as well as abroad. The test mules have been seen with varying features till now, making it difficult to get a proper feel of its design. The latest test mule spotted overseas is different in that it appears to be in production-ready form.Royal Enfield 650cc LED HeadlightIt has the full uniform and is without any camouflage, indicating that the bike is almost ready to enter production. The test mule can be seen with a top box and connected wires, which reveals the possibility of range testing. Shotgun 650 is likely to be launched in early 2023. Royal Enfield could also introduce the Super Meteor 650 at the same time.While production-ready Shotgun 650 looks familiar to SG650 Concept, it has toned-down features and appears more practical. The bike continues using Royal Enfield’s signature retro features such as round headlamp and rear view mirrors, teardrop shaped fuel tank and wide rear mudguard. While the headlight will be LED, blinkers will have halogen bulbs.Upcoming Royal Enfield 650cc Bobber SG650Side profile comprises largely the engine and utility boxes. The test mule can be seen with inconspicuous looking exhaust. It is possible that this may be different as compared to that of the production variant. At the rear, Shotgun 650 has the signature round tail lamp.In terms of user comfort, the bike offers an upright riding stance. Pulled back handlebar and centrally placed footpegs will ensure optimal comfort on long journeys. Low-set, scooped out single piece saddle can be expected to boost comfort levels as well as ensure adequate balance and control.Shotgun 650 engine and specsPowering Shotgun 650 will be the same 648cc parallel-twin air cooled motor that does duty on Interceptor and Continental GT. It churns out 47 hp of max power and 52 Nm of peak torque. It is coupled with a 6-speed constant mesh gearbox. It is possible that power and torque output may be tweaked slightly in line with the bike’s profile.Shotgun 650 has USD forks at front and dual rear shock absorbers. It has disc brakes at both ends, integrated with dual-channel ABS as standard. Speedometer appears the same as currently used with other Royal Enfield bikes. There’s a larger primary display on the left that shows standard info such as speedometer, fuel level and odometer. On the right, the smaller display is likely to be the tripper navigation system.Source More

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      Tata Motors To Manufacture 2 L Electric Cars, EVs At Ford India Plant

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      Tata Motors will be investing Rs 2,000 crore in the Sanand-based manufacturing facility in Gujarat previously owned by Ford IndiaImage – National GeographicTimes of India claims that Tata Motors has taken over the Ford India plant in Sanand. Tata Motors has not yet officially announced the take over. As per the report, Tata Motors has acquired Ford India’s manufacturing facility based out of Sanand in Gujarat for an undisclosed amount.There have been talks of the Indian automaker taking over the American auto giant’s plants in India. The latter quit retail and manufacturing operations in the country in September last year. Tata Motors is planning to invest an additional Rs 2,000 crore in the newly acquired facility. The homegrown carmaker intends to manufacture two lakh electric vehicles (EVs) by 2026 at the Sanand factory. Ford also owns a vehicle and engine manufacturing plant in Maraimalai Nagar, Tamil Nadu.Tata Motors Acquiring Ford India’s plantAs a part of this takeover, Tata Motors will not be laying off any of the existing employees of Ford in this facility. The facility has given employment to as many as 23,000 personnel either directly or indirectly. The company already owns a manufacturing facility in Sanand, built to manufacture Tata Nano. Ford India plant is just opposite the Tata Motors plant in Sanand.This plant currently serves as a manufacturing hub for the brand’s EVs and other models like Tiago and Tigor. As of now, Tata Motors produces 10,000 EVs per year, at its existing Sanand-based factory. This facility has an overall production capacity of 1.5 lakh units per annum. Tata Motors was one of the first major automakers to enter Sanand with an investment of Rs 4,500 crore to build India’s most affordable car in the form of Nano.Tata CURVV Electric SUV Coupe ConceptConcessions sought by Tata MotorsTata Motors has also sought concessions in land transfer rate where it has proposed to pay 20% of jantri rate of the land which translates to Rs 66 crores. It has also asked for balance eligible incentives which were promised to Ford till 2030. Report further reveals that the state government has given its nod to these concessions sought by Tata Motors.Earlier this year, both Tata Motors and Ford India submitted a consent proposal for transfer of ownership of the latter’s manufacturing plant to the former. The high-powered committee met recently and gave a nod to this proposal including concessions sought by Tata Motors as part of this deal. The proposed takeover is expected to become a major landmark in EV production in the country.Tata Motors as an EV manufacturerTata Motors is currently the largest EV manufacturer in the country with two mass-market products in the form of Tigor EV and Nexon. In February this year, the brand sold a total of 2,264 units of battery-powered vehicles. The company recently previewed an upcoming Coupe Electric SUV in the form of Curvv Concept which is expected to go on sale by 2024.Source More

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      New Yamaha Electric Scooters Showcased To Dealers In India

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      E01 And NEO’s electric scooters had made their global debut earlier this year in March; India launch likely next yearYamaha Electric Scooters Showcased To Dealers In India. Image – Nikam YamahaAs compared to startups like Ather, Ola, Okinawa, Ampere, Revolt, etc., mainstream two-wheeler manufacturers like Yamaha are yet to target the EV space on a large scale. There are limitations for such OEMs, as they have to maintain focus on their primary petrol powered two-wheelers. Good thing is Yamaha has now taken its first steps in the EV journey by showcasing E01 And NEO’s electric scoters at dealers’ meet. Hat tip to Nikam Yamaha and Torque TV for sharing the images.Yamaha Electric Scooters For India – E01E01 is more likely to make it here, as it’s comparable to a 125cc petrol scooter. Yamaha already has a strong presence in this space with popular scooters like Fascino and RayZR. Similar USPs can be created for E01. Moreover, Yamaha has already filed the trademark for E01.As may be recalled, E01 electric scooter concept was showcased at 2019 Tokyo Motor Show. The maxi-styled scooter has a sporty profile with prominent front fascia, dual headlights, compact windscreen and wide, comfortable single piece seat. The scooter is expected to be offered in both single and dual-tone colour options.Other key features of E01 include fully digital instrument console, Bluetooth connectivity and keyless ignition. It will have three ride modes of Eco, Normal and Power. Max range with a single battery pack is expected to be around 70-80 km on a full charge.Yamaha Electric Scooters For India. Image – Nikam YamahaIn European markets, E01 is likely to be equipped with a 11kW (15 bhp) motor. This is as per the regulatory requirements mandated for light electric scooters. In Europe, E01 will debut as part of a ride sharing fleet.Yamaha Neo’s electric scooterBased on E02 concept showcased at 2019 Tokyo Motor Show, Neo’s electric scooter recently debuted in Europe at a starting price of EUR 3,005 (approx. Rs 2.52 lakh). It will go on sale later this year in May.Yamaha Neo’s electric scooter is equipped with a 50.4V, 19.2Ah Lithium-ion battery pack that weighs 8kg. It supplies power to a brushless DC hub motor, rated to deliver 2.5 kW (3.4PS) of power and 136 Nm of torque in Standard mode. The powertrain is comparable to a 50cc scooter. It is to note that Neo’s is already available as a 50cc petrol powered scooter in select markets.Yamaha Electric Scooters For IndiaIn Eco mode, power output is restricted to 1.58kW. With a single battery, range is around 38.5 km. This can be extended to 68 km using a dual battery setup. Charging time is around eight hours when a standard AC charger is used.It is not certain if Neo’s electric scooter will be launched in India. Charging and battery swapping infrastructure are still underdeveloped in the country. This significantly limits the acceptability for an electric scooter with low range. Market trends indicate that there’s growing preference for electric scooters with around 100+ km range. More

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      Kia EV6 GT Electric Car Spied Testing In India – Launch Soon

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      This flagship GT version of the Kia EV6 crossover commands a range of 510km and top speed of 260 km/hKia EV6 GT Electric Car. Image – Automobili Ardent IndiaKia EV6, the most powerful and quickest vehicle in the company lineup, is getting ready for India launch. Making its global debut last year, this electric crossover is the company’s first all-electric vehicle.Kia EV6 shares its E-GMP platform (Electric-Global Modular Platform) with the Hyundai Ioniq, which is also planned for India launch. EV6 is built on the company’s new Opposites United design philosophy which is based on the 5 pillars of Bold for Nature, Joy for Reason, Power to Progress, Technology for Life and Tension for Serenity.Kia EV6 GT Electric Spied In IndiaKia’s EV6 is offered with 2 powertrain configurations – 77.4 kWh for long range and 58 kWh for standard range. It will be offered in two variants of GT Line and GT and will be available in both 2WD and AWD options.The new Kia EV6 GT comes in with a dual motor set up along with a 77.4 kWh battery pack which together offer 576 hp power and 740 Nm torque. This allows the EV6 GT to accelerate from 0 to 100 km/h in 3.5 seconds and to hit a top speed of 260 km/h. This speed and power puts it in a higher category as compared to the Porsche Taycan 4S.Kia EV6 GT Electric CarUpcoming Kia EV6 is offered in a choice of two battery sizes of 77.4 kWh and 58 kWh. In its non GT stance the larger battery offers 229 hp power in a rear wheel drive format and a combined 325 hp with AWD. The rear wheel drive variant gets a range of 510 kms on the WLTP cycle while acceleration from 0 to 100 km/h is achieved in 5.2 seconds.The 58 kWh battery pack is also presented in two configurations of 170hp RWD and 235hp AWD with acceleration of 0-100km/h in 6.2 seconds. It is not clear as to which battery variant will be launched in India. Kia EV6 will come in as a CBU.Where features are concerned, the upcoming EV6 will get a new Kia logo, large headlamps and a Tiger Nose front grille. It features an aerodynamic design with swept back windshield, angular DRLs, sloping C pillars and a roof spoiler. Interiors will see the latest in technology with an HD screen, slim dashboard and instrument cluster, and the latest in technologies and car connectivity.Battery Charging TimeKia EV6, positioned on the EGMP platform, gets an 800V charging architecture allowing charging from 10 to 80 percent in 18 minutes. In just 4.5 minutes of charging, the Kia EV6 can deliver up to 100 kms range. The EV6 also comes in with a ‘vehicle-to-load’ function to offer up to 3.6kW of power to external devices including other EVs. India launch is likely to take place in June 2022.Source More

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      Suzuki V-Strom SX 250cc ADV Launch Price Rs 2.11 L

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      Quarter litre bike segment in India is expected to emerge as a key growth driver in coming yearsSuzuki V Strom SX 250cc ADVIn 250cc segment, Suzuki currently has the naked Gixxer 250 and its faired sibling SF250. With growing preference for entry-level dual-purpose ADV bikes, Suzuki has launched V-Strom SX 250. It will primarily rival the likes of KTM 250 Adventure, Benelli TRK 251, Yezdi Adventure and BMW G 310 GS. It could also emerge as an alternative for Himalayan and recently launched Royal Enfield Scram.Based on Gixxer 250 platformIn international markets, Suzuki V-Strom 250 has been in production since 2017. It is part of the company’s dual-sport range that also has other products like Suzuki V-Strom 650, Suzuki V-Strom 1000 and the Suzuki V-Strom 1050. In India, Suzuki sells V-Strom 650XT, which is popular for its versatile performance. V-Strom 250 claims to have similar capabilities at an affordable price point.Developed primarily for Asian markets, V-Strom SX utilizes a single cylinder 249cc engine that also powers Gixxer 250 and SF250. This engine makes 26.5 ps at 9300 rpm and 22.2 Nm at 7300 rpm. It is mated to a 6-speed gearbox. Power and torque output could be adjusted to suit the bike’s ADV character.Mr. Satoshi Uchida, Managing Director, Suzuki Motorcycle India, said, “We feel delighted to announce our entry in the 250cc adventure sports segment with the launch of V-Strom SX. The All-New V-Strom SX has been manufactured to cater to the needs of the riders who like a versatile sports adventure tourer. V-Strom SX will be perfectly suitable for city and highway riding as well as to explore various kinds of adventure terrains on a motorcycle.Suzuki V Strom SX 250cc ADVToday, motorcycles have evolved as an extension of its owner’s personality and riders look at their motorcycle as a partner rather than just a vehicle to commute. We are confident that with its all-round capabilities, V-Strom SX will perfectly blend with the latent demands of the Indian riders. All-New 250cc sports adventure tourer has been conceptualized to follow the footsteps of its big brother and make people fall in love with its performance on a daily basis, touring capabilities and features.”Suzuki V-Strom 250 featuresV-Strom 250 is projected as a multi-use bike that can effectively tackle a variety of terrain and environments. It can work for everyday commutes as well as be ready for some mild off-roading and long distance highway cruising.The bike has a comfortable, upright riding stance. Wide, ergonomically placed handlebar and scooped rider seat ensure optimal control and handling across varied terrain. Other key features include LED headlamp, decent sized windscreen, knuckle guards, signature ADV beak, sporty rear view mirrors, sculpted fuel tank, split seats and upswept exhaust.Suzuki V Strom SX 250cc ADVV-Strom 250 will have a full digital instrument cluster that will host Bluetooth-based connectivity features, powered by Suzuki Ride Connect app. The bike is also equipped with a USB charger. Suspension system will comprise standard telescopic forks at front and swingarm linked monoshock unit at rear. In line with its ADV character, the suspension system onboard V-Strom 250 will have relatively longer travel in comparison to that of Gixxer 250.Braking duties will be performed by disc brakes at both ends, integrated with dual-channel ABS as standard. The bike could get wire spoke wheels, shod with dual-purpose tyres. Three colour options are on offer – Yellow, Orange, Black. Prices start from Rs 2.11 lakh, ex-sh. Bookings are now open. More

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      Tata CURVV Electric SUV Concept Debuts – Bigger Than Nexon

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      When launched, Tata CURVV Coupe EV could lock horns against MG ZS EV and Hyundai Kona ElectricTata CURVV Electric SUV Coupe ConceptA few days back Tata Motors teased an upcoming electric SUV on its social media handles. At first, it was believed that the company could be launching the upcoming updated Nexon EV with a larger battery pack.However, when Tata released another teaser, it was revealed that it will be an all new Electric SUV concept. Today, Tata Motors has taken wraps off their all new electric SUV Coupe – CURVV.Tata CURVV Electric SUV ConceptRumours about Tata Motors working on a stretched version of the Nexon with a Coupe body style – have been doing rounds for quite some time now. With the debut of CURVV concept today, the rumours have finally been laid to rest. It is planned for launch within the next two years. Range is to be about 500 kms.The company’s original plan was to unveil this concept at the 2022 Auto Expo in February. However, with the biennial auto event being postponed due to obvious reasons to January 2023, Tata Motors decided to present the Concept vehicle in April 2022. That said, market launch of the production-spec vehicle is still some time away, which is expected to take place in 2024.Tata CURVV Electric SUV Coupe ConceptTata Curvv is a mid size SUV coupe, which will sit above the Nexon in the company line-up. Tata Motors has said that this is not a new gen Nexon, but an all new car, based on a new platform. Take a look at the Tata CURVV concept walkaround in the video below.[embedded content][embedded content]While the concept showcases a battery-powered version, Tata Motors is also likely to develop new IC engine powertrains. Petrol or diesel engine options could be on offer in the future. Hybrid will not be on offer. Tata CURVV production spec petrol or diesel SUV will take on the likes of Hyundai Creta, Kia Seltos, etc. It will sit between the Nexon and Harrier in company lineup.Tata CURVV – Exterior DesignTata Motors has built the CURVV on design philosophy – Less is More. In the front, Tata CURVV electric features an LED DRL running across the width of the bonnet crease. Triangular LED elements are seen on the front bumper which might serve as the main headlamp cluster.Tata CURVV Electric SUV Coupe ConceptOther notable highlights include grey alloys with a machine-cut design and a sloping Coupe-like roofline. It gets an EV badging to notify its powertrain. Given how many production cars from Tata resemble their pre-production concept counterparts, we expect the final electric Coupe SUV to be more or less similar to its concept shown.Mr. Shailesh Chandra – Managing Director, Tata Motors Passenger Vehicles Ltd., and Tata Passenger Electric Mobility Ltd. ecstatically said – “With a fantastic year gone by, it gives me immense pleasure to announce a flying start to the new year, with a brand new ‘promise’, a brand new ‘thought’ and a brand new ‘design’ – all put together in this magnificent Electric SUV Concept – CURVV. Our focus here has been to enable customers with a product option that is the perfect amalgamation of modern functionality and design. With a robust SUV DNA at its core, and a plethora of new age materials, features and interfaces, we are confident that this Coupe Concept will redefine mainstream SUV design. Furthermore, with the concept CURVV, we now enter the Generation 2 EV architecture which will further enhance the adoption of EVs in India by overcoming the current barriers. With this new architecture, we will strengthen the key pillars of Range, Performance and Technology, while retaining Safety and Reliability as hygiene offerings.”Tata CURVV Electric SUV Coupe ConceptTechnical HighlightsNew Tata CURVV Coupe SUV will likely have a 50mm longer wheelbase. Overall length will likely stand at around the 4.3 metre mark, putting it into the category of mid-size SUVs like Hyundai Creta, Kia Seltos and others. Coming to powertrain, CURVV electric SUV coupe is expected to feature next generation of EV powertrain from Tata Motors. It will deliver more power, more range. New gen tech features will also be on offer. Tata CURVV electric is aimed to offer a range of 500 kms on full charge.Tata Motors say, “Generation 2 EV architecture will be advanced, flexible and capable of offering multi-powertrain options. Products on this architecture will be crafted to deliver a higher range while retaining the credibility and reliability standards set by the Generation 1 products powered by Ziptron.” As far as its IC derivative is concerned, Curvv Coupe could be powered by a larger 1.5-litre turbo petrol mill. The 1.5-litre diesel engine from the regular Nexon could also be carried forward by upgrading it to make it compatible with the upcoming BS6 Stage 2 norms. More

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      2022 Hero Optima CX Electric Scooter Brochure Leaks – Launch Soon

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      Currently, Hero Optima HX is offered at a price of Rs 55,850 for the single battery variant and Rs 65,640 (both prices ex-showroom) for the dual-battery variant2022 Hero Optima CX and CX ER Electric Scooter. Source – elevahanHero Electric will soon be upgrading the Optima CX series for 2022. Brochure of the same has leaked only. It will be offered in two variants – CX and CX ER (Extended Range). Hero Electric official website has listed existing CX at a price of Rs 62,190 ex-Delhi.The two variants of Optima CX are expected to sit on top of the existing Optima HX range of e-scooters. The primary difference between CX and CX ER is the battery pack on offer, the former offers a single battery unit whereas the latter comes with a dual battery pack.2022 Hero Optima CX- Updates over Optima HXThe new Optima CX will be visually identical to its predecessor Optima HX but is expected to differ in terms of specifications. Optima CX is expected to be 25 percent more powerful than the previous model.Further, efficiency of the electric motor will be 10 percent more than before and that will also result in a higher top speed. Thanks to a larger battery pack range will also be greater.2022 Hero Optima CX and CX ER Electric ScooterPowertrain SpecsGetting into specific details, the Optima series features a larger 52.2Volt, 30ah Lithium Ferro Phosphate battery pack. The base CX variant gets a single unit which offers a range of 82 km while CX ER is offered with dual batteries that offer a cumulative range of 140km on a single charge.2022 Hero Optima CX and CX ER Electric ScooterThe battery pack(s) feeds energy to a 550W electric motor that returns a peak output of 1.2kW (1.6 bhp) with a maximum top speed of 45kmph. For reference, top speed on Optima HX is limited to 42 kmph. Braking has also been made stronger by 30 percent to compensate for improved performance.Charging time for both variants will stay around 4-5 hours since CX ER will be provided with a stronger dual charger setup. There is no other difference between the two variants as both offer a similar set of features.2022 Hero Optima CX and CX ER Electric ScooterFeatures & Expected PriceThe Optima CX range will offer features like cruise control, walk assist, reverse mode, a digital instrument cluster, USB charging port, LED headlamps and an anti-theft alarm with a remote key. In terms of dimensions, the e-scooter rides on 12-inch wheels shod with 90/90 section tubeless tyres from Continental. It gets a ground clearance of 140mm.While Optima CX weighs 82 kilos, due to an additional battery pack Optima CX ER weighs slightly higher at 93kg. As far as prices are concerned, the Optima CX range could be priced slightly higher than the Optima HX series, likely between Rs 60,000 and Rs 70,000 (both prices ex-showroom). Both variants of Optima CX will be available in three colour options- blue, grey and white. More