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      Husqvarna Electric Scooter Vektorr Concept Debuts – Based On Bajaj Chetak

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      Husqvarna Electric Scooter Concept – VektorrHusqvarna has taken wraps off their electric scooter concept – Production version is scheduled to be launched next year
      A few days after revealing the E-Pilen electric motorcycle concept, Husqvarna has taken wraps of their electric scooter concept. Called Vektorr, this is a concept version of the upcoming electric scooter. Speaking about the scooter, Husqvarna says, it is “an eco-friendly offering that brings the future of personal urban transport into the present.”
      Not much has been revealed in terms of actual specs, dimensions or technology. What is mentioned as of now, is that this scooter has a top speed of 45 kmph and a ride range of up to 95 kms on full charge. Interestingly, there is no mention of swappable battery – a feature which was announced with the Husqvarna electric motorcycle concept.
      Husqvarna Vektorr Electric Scooter
      Speaking about the design, the new electric scooter carries on with Husqvarna’s design language. In the front, you have the circular headlight with circular LED DRL border. Husqvarna says, “The Vektorr Concept is the first electric scooter ever produced by Husqvarna Motorcycles and is aimed squarely at the urban commuter who demands a compact, stylish and effective personal transport solution to fit their busy lifestyle.”
      The seat is wide and long, enough for rider as well as pillion. Front as well as rear has a single spring suspension. In the front you have a disc brake while rear has a drum brake. Alloys look larger, production spec version could get 12 inch alloys.
      Husqvarna Electric Scooter Concept – Vektorr
      Based On Bajaj Chetak Platform
      Pierer Mobility, owners of KTM and Husqvarna had revealed in their report that the upcoming Husqvarna electric scooter will be based on Bajaj Chetak, which is currently on sale in India. The report also added that it will be made in India.
      Interestingly, the two scooters have many similarities. Bajaj Chetak too does not offer swappable battery option, has a similar range of 95 kms, has single spring suspension in the front and rear, has disc brake in front and drum brake at rear.
      Launch Timeline
      Husqvarna Vektorr Electric Scooter is expected to enter production sometime next year, at the Bajaj Auto plant near Pune. Bajaj is currently in the process of increasing production capacity for their KTM, Husqvarna and Chetak brands. Plan is to increase production by 5 lakh units annually, in the first phase.
      Husqvarna Electric Scooter Concept – Vektorr
      Launch of the Husqvarna electric scooter could first take place in Europe. After which, it will be launched in India. Expect price to be on the higher side. Recently, Bajaj increased price of their Chetak scooter, and it now retails at an ex-sh price of about Rs 1.45 lakhs. Once launched, it will rival the likes of Ather 450X and upcoming Ola Electric Scooter. More

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      KTM 750 Duke, ADV Launch Next Year – To Be Made In China By CFMOTO

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      Image for referenceManufactured in China, KTM’s 750cc motorcycles could be offered at an affordable price point
      As part of their joint venture with China based CFMoto, KTM is currently developing an entirely new 750cc platform. The global unveil of these new KTM motorcycles is scheduled to take place by 2022.
      KTM has a partnership with CFMoto since 2011. The latter is responsible for importing and selling KTM motorcycles in China. In 2020, CFMoto also started manufacturing KTM motorcycles, as part of KTM’s expansion strategy in China. This partnership is something similar to the arrangement that KTM has with Bajaj in India.
      KTM 750cc motorcycles – what to expect
      Initially, the 750cc platform will be used to develop 750 Duke, 750 Adventure and 750 Supermoto. The 750 Duke will work as a replacement for 790 Duke, which is expected to be discontinued. KTM has already introduced the new 890 range, so 790cc range may no longer be required. KTM 750cc motorcycles will be positioned between the 890cc range and upcoming KTM 490cc parallel-twin range.
      The 490cc range will be manufactured in India by Bajaj at its production facility in Chakan, near Pune. It will serve the needs of both domestic markets and exports.
      KTM 790 Adventure at India Bike Week
      There’s still very little that’s known about KTM’s new 750cc range. In terms of pricing, KTM 750cc motorcycles could be relatively affordable in comparison to 790cc range. However, don’t expect KTM to cut down on features to reduce cost.
      Offering a range of high-tech features is one of the key USPs of KTM motorcycles. It’s unlikely that the company would want to compromise on that. However, it is possible that reduction in production costs may be passed on to customers in the form of lower prices.
      KTM 750cc range India launch
      It is not yet certain if KTM will introduce the new 750cc range in Indian market. However, going by the popularity of KTM bikes in India, the 750cc range could eventually make its way in the country. As of now, KTM is focused on smaller capacity 125cc, 200cc, 250cc and 390cc motorcycles. These have registered consistent numbers in both domestic sales and exports.
      In the domestic market, the primary volume generators for KTM are its 200cc, 125cc and 250cc motorcycles. In overseas markets, the preference is more for 390cc and 125cc motorcycles. Next on the agenda are KTM electric scooters, which will be based on Chetak platform. A new production facility is currently being built by Bajaj, which will be utilized for manufacturing KTM electric scooters. These are expected to be launched by 2022. More

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      Bajaj Trademarks Fluir, Fluor Names – For Future Electric Motorcycle?

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      Image of Zero Motorcycle for reference
      The upcoming Bajaj electric motorcycle will rival the likes of other electric motorcycles such as Revolt RV400 and Okinawa Cruiser among others
      Bajaj Auto, like every other OEM in India, is looking to broaden its product portfolio. It has come to light that the Pune based two-wheeler manufacturer has filed new trademarks for Fluir and Fluor monikers in the country. Speculations indicate that these names would be used for the brand’s upcoming range of electric products.
      Fluir is a Spanish word that stands for flow (of steam or fluids). Since both the names sound similar, it might be the case where only one brand name gets utilised. Bajaj already retails an electric two-wheeler in the form of Chetak electric scooter. It is possible that at least one of these two trademarks could be used for an electric motorcycle.
      Bajaj FLUIR
      Upcoming Electric Two-wheelers
      While trademark applications don’t say that they can only be used for a battery-powered vehicle. However, adding more sub-brands for conventional IC engine-powered vehicles does not make much sense since Bajaj already has at least five of them in its current lineup.
      If Bajaj uses these monikers for conventionally powered two-wheelers, the company will most probably have to delete some models from its portfolio which is not likely to happen in the near future.
      Bajaj FLUOR
      An electric motorcycle seems the best bet since the trio alliance of Bajaj, KTM and Husqvarna are planning to amplify their electric lineup of models. While the Austrian and Swedish bikemakers will be utilising the platform of Chetak Electric to build their own respective e-scooters, Bajaj might very well do the same with its own version of a rebadged Husqvarna E-Pilen which was recently revealed to the world.
      If it turns out the way we speculate, the new electric bike from the Indian automaker is expected to be powered by a 8kW electric motor. While other specifications are yet to be revealed, the bike in all probability will feature a battery swapping technology to address range anxiety issues. A similarly specced bike is also expected to don the orange of KTM at some stage.
      Chetak Electric
      On the other hand, Chetak Electric is powered by a 3kWh battery pack paired with a 4kW electric motor which returns a peak output of 16 Nm torque. It is offered with two drive modes- Eco and Sport.
      The e-scooter offers a maximum range of 95km in Eco mode while in Sport mode it offers a range of 85km on a single charge. Bajaj retails Chetak in two trims namely Urbane and Premium at a starting price of Rs 1.42 lakh (ex-showroom). More

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      Yamaha FZ-X Spied Nr Atal Tunnel During TVC Shoot In 3 New Colours

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      New Yamaha FZ-XUpon its launch, Yamaha FZ-X will become the most affordable retro-style classic motorcycle in India
      Recently it was revealed that Yamaha is working on developing a new motorcycle based on its exciting 150cc lineup which comprises FZ Fi and FZS Fi. This new bike was spotted testing a few weeks ago in the Yamuna Expressway and was earlier believed to be part of the XSR brand of motorcycles sold in foreign markets.
      It turned out, Yamaha will be using its FZ moniker in the upcoming bike which wears a retro design. Now, production-spec FZ-X has been spied near Atal tunnel by automotive enthusiast Surya Dagar.
      New Yamaha FZ-X
      There are total of three FZ-X motorcycles in 3 different colours of Blue, Orange and Black. These were spotted undisguised while being shot for upcoming launch TVC.
      Dimension & Design
      The spied images revealed that FZ-X will wear an entirely different top hat in comparison to its naked streetfighter siblings. This establishes the change in its dimensions which according to the leaked document, FZ-X will outstretch FZ Fi by 30mm, 5mm and 35mm in its length, width and height respectively. In exact figures, the classic roadster will measure 2,020mm in length, 785mm in width and 1,115mm in height.
      New Yamaha FZ-X
      As mentioned earlier, FZ-X will carry a retro-themed design with a conventional teardrop-shaped fuel tank, circular headlamp and aluminum brackets on both sides. In addition, FZ-X gets a boomerang-shaped radiator guard that differs from the one found in FZ Fi that gives the naked street racer a hunkered-down look. We also notice that the front suspension gets fork gaiters on the telescopic forks apart from the mono-shock at rear.
      New Yamaha FZ-X
      The motorcycle features a flat seat design, upright handlebars and center-set footpegs that must ensure a comfortable riding position. The relaxed ride posture would make it ideally suitable for short city commutes as well as highway cruising. Other notable highlights expected to be included are an upswept exhaust and a digital instrument console.
      Powertrain Specs
      As for specifications, it will be powered by the same 149cc air-cooled SOHC engine that also propels FZ Fi V3 and FZS Fi V3. This unit is tuned to churn out 12.2 bhp at 7,500rpm and 13.6 Nm of peak torque at 5,500rpm while being mated to a 5-speed gearbox. Braking duties will be carried out 282mm and 220mm front and rear disc brakes respectively which will be further assisted by a single-channel ABS.
      Expect the new FZ-X to be offered at the same price as FZ Fi which currently starts at Rs 1.04 lakh (ex-showroom). No information regarding its prospective launch is yet available but we expect the motorcycle to hit showrooms just ahead of the festive season later this year. More

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      Honda NX200 Name Trademarked In India – Hero Xpulse 200 Rival

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      Image for reference. Render by Young Machine Magazine
      Honda NX200 is likely to be priced at a slight premium over Hornet 2.0 and will directly lock its horns against Hero Xpulse 200
      Honda’s two-wheeler division in India has been on a roll since last year as it has shifted focus from commuter motorcycles to more performance-oriented machines. It started with the launch of Hornet 2.0 and was followed by the likes of CB350 range, CB500X and CB650 range.
      All barring Hornet 2.0 are retailed through the Japanese brand’s premium chain of dealerships called BigWing. The company has earlier mentioned that it is looking to develop multiple new models based on the platform all premium bikes that are locally manufactured in the country. Only then can the products be viable and could be priced competitively in the market against their rivals.
      Hornet 2.0 Based ADV bike
      It has been revealed that the bikemaker is planning to develop a new adventure motorcycle based on Hornet 2.0. In fact, the manufacturer has also registered a trademark with the name ‘NX200’ which is almost certain to be utilised for the Hornet 2.0-based ADV. Honda had already made its intentions known that it wanted to bring an entry-level adventure bike in India when it had earlier presented the CX-02 Concept.
      The Japanese automaker already has an entry-level adventure tourer in its international lineup in the form of CB190X which is retailed in China. It is also one of the most affordable ADVs currently. Although, the India-spec model will be slightly different from the one sold in China. The NX200 is likely to incorporate styling elements from both CB190X and CX-02 Concept. This means, as in the case with most contemporary ADVs, the new NX200 will wear a front-heavy design.
      Honda NX200 name registered in India
      Expected Styling Attributes
      It should feature a tall windscreen, a full-LED headlight, muscular fuel tank with long extensions, an upright tail section, knuckle guards and luggage rack at rear. It will be built on a slightly tweaked version of the frame underpinning Hornet 2.0 which will suit its characteristics.
      This means it will be equipped with a long travel suspension setup, dual-purpose tyres, raised handlebars, better seat cushioning and a revised footpeg position for an upright riding posture.
      Expected Mechanical Specs
      One can expect 21-inch front and 17-inch rear wire-spoked rims on the adventure bike. Despite these qualities, it will be wrong to expect a hardcore off-roader. NX200 will most probably be a road-biased tourer just like CB500X.
      Powertrain, however, is unlikely to be tinkered with. It will be powered by a 184.4cc air-cooled single-cylinder currently powering Hornet 2.0. This unit is rated to return an output of 17 bhp and at 8500rpm and 16.1 Nm of peak torque at 6000rpm while being mated to a 5-speed gearbox. More

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      Husqvarna Electric Motorcycle E-Pilen Concept Revealed

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      Husqvarna Electric Motorcycle E-Pilen Concept
      Husqvarna E-Pilen is expected to undergo production by late this year with a launch aimed at late 2021 or late 2022
      With every other OEM venturing into electric mobility space, we often get to witness new designs and advent of some new technology even if it’s minuscule. The latest manufacturer is Husqvarna who plans to enter the emission-free auto world with the production version of E-Pilen Concept revealed recently.
      Based on the unique and pioneering design of successful twins- Svartpilen and Vitpilen, E-Pilen Concept is the Swedish bikemaker’s first step into urban electric mobility. The company has ensured that the production-spec electric motorcycle will bear stark resemblances to the concept version showcased.
      Husqvarna Electric Motorcycle E-Pilen Concept
      Modern Design
      The progressive design philosophy of Svartpilen and Vitpilen has been carried forward to the electric bike which features some distinct styling elements such as an exposed trellis frame, wide handlebars, a compact fuel tank and a round headlamp.
      While a light paint scheme has been carried forward from Vitpilen, the tank rack has been inspired by Svartpilen. Other design elements included are inverted forks, mono-shock at rear, and a gullwing swingarm.
      Husqvarna Electric Motorcycle E-Pilen Concept
      Expected Powertrain Specs
      It should be pointed out that the fuel tank houses the electric battery setup. The battery supplies energy to an electric motor with a rated capacity of 8kW (10.73 bhp). Although exact details of the powertrain are yet to be revealed, the company claims a modest range of 100km on a single charge. However, Husqvarna has assured that it will address the range anxiety issues of consumers by equipping E-Pilen with swappable batteries featuring a modular system.
      Husqvarna Electric Motorcycle E-Pilen Concept
      Official statement from the company read as “It has always been the aim of Husqvarna Motorcycles to develop new products accessible to the broadest possible spectrum of riders. The E-mobility range will retain and continue the riding pleasure and dynamics refined through the long history and experience of the brand.”
      More Details
      More details regarding E-Pilen will be revealed as the electric motorcycle nears its final production-spec version. Husqvarna’s Austrian cousin KTM has already ventured into electric mobility space with 5 kW SX-E and 16 kW Freeride E. If E-Pilen indeed undergoes production it can also pave the path for electric KTM Dukes. Motorcycles of both brands are manufactured at Bajaj’s manufacturing facility in Chakan near Pune, Maharashtra.
      [embedded content]
      In fact, Bajaj and KTM have been working together on a common electric platform that will underpin products ranging from 3kW to 10kW electric motors using a 48V electric system. Also, it was reported a couple of months back that KTM and Husqvarna are developing an all-new electric scooter as well which will be based on Bajaj Chetak Electric. We can expect E-Pilen to be launched late this year or early next year. More

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      2021 Suzuki Hayabusa BS6 India Launch Price Rs 16.4 Lakh

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      2021 Suzuki HayabusaCompared to the older Hayabusa, the new 1340cc inline four-cylinder motor comes with new and lighter connecting rods and pistons
      The new generation Suzuki Hayabusa is one of the most anticipated premium bikes around the world. The faired superbike recently made its international debut and has now been launched in India. Price starts from Rs 16.4 lakh, ex-sh.
      Mr. Koichiro Hirao, Managing Director, SMIPL said, “Suzuki Hayabusa has been the most preferred choice amongst Sport bike enthusiasts around the world for over two decades now in the class it created. The new-generation Hayabusa was developed not only to achieve an even higher overall balance of ultimate performance and comply with the BS6 emissions standards, but also to capture the hearts of both devoted followers and all who lay eyes on the stunning beauty and sharper, tauter form of its bold new design.”
      Updated Design
      The third-gen Hayabusa comes with a series of updates both in terms of looks as well as its functionality. For starters, it comes with a completely redesigned bodywork with an improved ram air intake which enhances the motorcycle’s aerodynamic properties. It comes with new body panels, flyscreen, rear cowl and fairing-mounted wing mirrors. The font face looks more aggressive thanks to more concise fairing adopted this time.
      New Hayabusa receives an updated tail section with freshly designed LED taillight. Although the faired sports bike continues to sport bulbous proportions as before, it now comes with chrome-plated twin exhausts that are sleeker and longer.
      2021 Suzuki Hayabusa
      Tipping the scales 4 kilos lighter at 264 kg, the motorcycle is offered with a revised fuel tank design that can hold up to 20-liters of fuel. Bolder fonts for ‘Hayabusa’ logo further accentuate the bike’s sporty character.
      Dynamics & Features
      Coming to its dynamics, 2021 Hayabusa retains the same twin-spar type aluminum frame which is assisted by the latest Kayaba suspension setup. Stopping duties are handled by disc brakes with Brembo’s Stylema calipers. The supersport tourer offers a saddle height of 800mm and a ground clearance of 120mm.
      Along with the hardware setup, new Hayabusa comes equipped with a wide array of electronic aids to complement the riding experience. The equipment comprises features such as a 6-axis IMU, hill start assist, multiple riding modes, quick-shifter, traction control, ABS cornering package, wheelie control, launch control to name a few. Other features on offer include a part digital and part analogue instrument console with a TFT display.
      Performance
      Speaking of performance, it is powered by a revised 1340cc inline four-cylinder, liquid-cooled engine as before that returns an output of 187 bhp and 150 Nm of peak torque. Output is down from 194 bhp and 154 Nm on the outgoing model. Claimed fuel efficiency has also dropped from 21.5 kmpl to 18.06 kmpl in the new Busa. As per Suzuki, the claimed top speed on the latest iteration of the superbike is 290 kmph. More

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      Top 10 Two Wheelers March 2021 – Splendor No 1, Activa 2nd, Pulsar 5th, Apache 10th

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      Image – Technical MamuHero MotoCorp’s entry-level commuter motorcycle Splendor led the list of 10 two wheelers sold in March 2021 while Honda Activa was in second position
      Two wheeler sales increased substantially in March 2021 over that of March 2020. The need for personal mode of transport, healthy rural climate, year-end financial schemes and discounts offered by two wheeler manufacturers all had a part to play in this increase of sales.
      While assessing the top 10 two wheelers sold in the past month, it may be seen that every model in this lineup showed positive growth in March 2021 over that of March 2020. Sales increased by 70.19 percent and stood at 10,80,498 units over 6,34,862 units sold in March 20. Of course, comparing sales to March 2020 is not a correct yardstick considering it was in that month that the Covid -19 pandemic struck the country leading to a complete lockdown.
      Hero Splendor Tops the List
      Hero MotoCorp, India’s largest two wheeler manufacturer, had the Splendor at No.1 on the top 10 list. This entry level commuter motorcycle, which is regaled by buyers on two counts for its high level of fuel efficiency and lower maintenance saw a total of 2,80,090 units sold in March 21, up 94.96 percent over 1,43,736 units sold in March 20. Of course, comparing sales to March 2020 is not a correct yardstick considering it was in that month that the Covid -19 pandemic struck the country leading to a complete lockdown.
      Honda Activa continued its lead in the scooter segment with 18.44 percent share and was next on the list. Sales were at 1,99,208 units, up 73.59 percent over sales of 1,14,757 units sold in March 20.
      Top 10 Motorcycles – March 2021
      The HF Deluxe, a commuter bike from Hero MotoCorp, was at No. 3. Sales for March 21 stood at 1,44,505 units, up 25.69 percent over 1,14,969 units sold in March 20. The HF Deluxe commands a 13.37 percent share and the company has recently added the HF 100, a new entry-level commuter bike priced at Rs.49,400. It is slotted below the HF Deluxe in the company lineup.
      Also noting a significant increase in sales was the Honda CB Shine. Sales were at 1,17,943 units in March 21, an increase of 36.14 percent over 86,633 units sold in March 20. The CB Shine also just missed out on reaching the 1 million unit mark with 9,88,201 units sold during the financial year 2020-21.
      Bajaj Pulsar and Platina
      Bajaj Auto Limited had two model – Pulsar and Platina on the list of top 10 two wheelers for March 20. While the Pulsar reported a 67.14 percent growth from 51,454 units sold in March 20 to 85,999 units sold in March 21, Platina sales surged 224.61 percent. Sales which had stood at 21,264 units in March 20 increased substantially to 69,025 units in the past month.
      Earlier this week the company also introduced the new Pulsar NS125 at Rs.93,690. The ‘NS’ or naked sport range will be positioned as an entry-level bike after the NS200 and the NS160.
      Chennai-based TVS Motor Company had three models on this list. These included the Jupiter, XL and Apache. Of these, it was the Jupiter at No.7 that saw the most sales and maximum growth. Sales were at 57,206 units in the past month, up 172.40 percent over 21,001 units sold in March 20.
      Sales of the TVS XL were at 44,688 units a growth of 36.21 percent over 32,808 units sold in March 20 while Apache sales increased 52.37 percent to 33,162 units, up from 21,764 units sold in the same month of the previous year. There was also the Suzuki Access at No. 8 with 83.83 percent growth to 48,672 units sold in the past month. More