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      in Electric Cars

      Tata Motors To Launch 10 New EVs By 2025 – Electric Altroz And HBX Planned

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      Image for reference
      Green plates will be much easier to spot on the streets in the coming years
      As the automotive industry begins its transition to an all-electric ecosystem, carmakers are working proactively to utilize available opportunities in the best possible manner. Tata Motors is one such company that has outlined an aggressive strategy to strengthen its presence in EV space. The company enjoys the first-mover advantage in EV segment and already has the top selling Nexon EV in its portfolio. That’s a solid base to further build its electric portfolio.
      10 EVs by 2025
      While many automakers are still focused on fossil fuel cars, Tata Motors has decided to lead the charge in EV space. In its 76th annual report, the company’s chairman N Chandrasekaran has stated that 10 new BEV vehicles will be included in the Group’s portfolio by 2025.
      Tata Motors will also be working on developing charging infrastructure across the country. This will help promote greater acceptability of EVs among customers. Another area of focus is sourcing battery packs. For this, the company has started searching for the right partners in India and Europe.
      In FY2021, more than 4k units of Nexon EV were sold. That’s around 2% of the company’s overall sales. The company believes that share of EVs in its portfolio will increase exponentially in the coming years. The company has plans to launch Altroz EV, HBX EV, etc.
      Tata Altroz Electric at Auto Expo 2020
      Tata Motors will also be focusing on future disruptions in the EV space such as autonomous, connected and shared mobility. For that, an automotive software and engineering vertical could be set up within the company.
      JLR to become fully electric by 2036
      Internationally, the shift to electric will be led by Jaguar Land Rover. JLR has plans to achieve a fully electric portfolio by 2036. Jaguar will achieve that target much earlier by 2025. In case of JLR, 60% of the company’s sales are expected to come from BEVs by 2030. Tata Group will be working to develop sustainable business models that will help achieve these ambitious EV goals.
      Tata Motors believes that the company could emerge as one of the world leaders in sustainable mobility. It has a global presence across 150 countries. It employs more than 750,000 people and has a customer base in excess of 650 million. The company has the resources and intelligence to become a leader in EV space.
      Pointing out to immediate challenges, Chandrasekaran said that some delays could be expected due to on-going Covid-19 pandemic. Global shortage of semiconductors could also hold back production. However, the company is hopeful that things will become much better by next year and beyond. More

    • 200 Shares109 Views

      in Bike

      Ather Electric Scooter New Price Of Rs 1.07 L In Gujarat Is Its Lowest In India

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      Ather Electric Scooter – AhmedabadThanks to the Central FAME II policy and state EV policy, prices of all EVs in Gujarat are set to be the cheapest in the country
      With the Gujarat government rolling out its new EV policy, all electric vehicle (EV) brands are set to enjoy the benefits of it. These benefits will in turn be extended in the form of reduced prices of EVs across the state. For instance, Ather has slashed prices of its electric scooters after implementing the benefits of the Gujarat EV policy.
      Ather 450X, 450 Plus prices slashed
      Price of its model range starts at Rs 1.07 lakh (ex-showroom) for 450 Plus. This is the lowest price tag of Ather e-scooter in India. Prior to this, price of the electric scooter was pegged at 1.25 lakh which means a deduction of Rs 18,000. Last month, prices of 450 Plus stood at 1.40 lakh, however, after implementation of FAME II policy, these prices were slashed by Rs. 14,500. All prices are ex-showroom.
      On the other hand, the brand‘s premium e-scooter 450X is now priced at about Rs 1.27 lakh after a subsidy of Rs 17,000 which is in addition to the revised FAME II policy. After applying the nationwide FAME II policy, price of Ather 450X was reduced to Rs 1.44 lakh (ex-showroom). Prior to all this, 450X was priced around Rs 1.60 lakh (ex-showroom) varying slightly as per location.
      Gujarat EV Policy benefits
      Other EV brands are also set to reduce prices of their models soon after applying the subsidy from Gujarat EV policy. This subsidy will be in addition to benefits availed under FAME II policy.
      Ather electric scooters now cheapest in Gujarat
      The Gujarat government recently announced that it will offer double the amount of subsidy in comparison to other states which will be applicable on a per kW basis. However, a cap has been set for all EVs. Two-wheelers can avail a subsidy of up to Rs 20,000 whereas three-wheelers get allowances up to Rs 1.5 lakh.
      For four-wheelers, subsidy has been limited to Rs 2 lakh per EV. All these subsidies are in addition to the benefits offered in the FAME II scheme. Over the next four years, the government in Gujarat aims to increase the number of EVs in state up to 2,00,000 lakh units. In other incentives, EVs registered in Gujarat will not be required to pay a registration fee.
      450X, 450 Plus Specs
      Both Ather 450X and 450 Plus share the same styling and features such as full-LED lighting, an apron-mounted headlight and a 4.2-inch touchscreen instrument cluster enabled with Bluetooth connectivity, integrated 4G LTE SIM connectivity, music & call controls, onboard navigation and digital document storage.
      In addition, both models also get reverse mode. The e-scooters share the same hardware configurations comprising telescopic forks at front, a mono-shock at rear and disc brakes on both wheels. More

    • 125 Shares199 Views

      in Bike

      Bajaj Freerider Trademark Filed – Name Of New Electric Motorcycle?

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      Image of Zero Motorcycle for referenceOptions for electric motorcycle are fairly limited, as compared to electric scooters
      After Chetak, Bajaj may be planning to introduce its first electric motorcycle. Indications for that come from a trademark application filed by the company. The trademark application has been filed for ‘Freerider’ name under Class 12.
      This class covers various automobiles including electric vehicles. Since KTM already has a lightweight e-bike named Freeride E-XC, it has led to speculations that Freerider could be Bajaj’s first electric motorcycle.
      Bajaj Freerider design and features
      It is likely that Bajaj Freerider will be using the same platform as that of Husqvarna E-Pilen. Components like the frame, suspension system and braking apparatus could be the same. E-Pilen concept was revealed earlier this year in April. Production is expected to commence later this year. E-Pilen could be launched towards the end of this year or in 2022.
      E-Pilen concept shares several of its features with Svartpilen and Vitpilen. Some examples include round headlamp, wide handlebar, sculpted fuel tank that houses the battery pack, and exposed trellis frame.
      Bajaj Freerider – Trademark Filed
      In terms of design, Bajaj Freerider will have its unique set of features. It’s too early to comment, but the electric motorcycle is likely to use a neo-retro design theme. This is in vogue and highly preferred by younger folks. Freerider is expected to have a sharp, sporty design, which will match the needs of its target audience. Eye-catchy graphics and decals will also be part of the package.
      Bajaj Freerider powertrain
      Freerider is expected to use the same electric powertrain as that of E-Pilen concept. E-Pilen is equipped with an 8kW (10.73 bhp) electric motor. Details about power output are yet to be revealed. The motorcycle will have a range of around 100 km, which should be sufficient for city needs.
      To take care of range anxiety, E-Pilen will be equipped with swappable batteries. It is apparent that the company will be focusing on developing the necessary infrastructure to sustain its electric two wheelers.
      Bajaj Freerider can hit the markets sooner than expected. That’s because Bajaj has been collaborating with KTM for developing a common electric platform. It is expected to spawn multiple electric two wheelers in the range of 3kW to 10kW. Most of these will be using a 48v electric system.
      KTM and Husqvarna are also working on a new electric scooter, which will be utilizing Bajaj Chetak’s platform. It is likely that Freerider will be a premium lifestyle product, just like Chetak. It won’t be cheap, even with the subsidies. More

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      in Bike

      Electric Cars, Scooters To Get Highest Subsidy In Gujarat – Nexon EV, Ather

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      Image – Anubhav ChauhanState-level subsidy in addition to FAME-II will help boost electric vehicle sales
      It’s good to see that states have started doing their bit to promote use of electric vehicles. The latest update comes from Gujarat where the state government has chalked out a detailed plan to boost EV usage. Gujarat’s new EV policy covers various aspects such as subsidies, encouraging startups and manufacturers to set up operations, and augmenting charging infrastructure.
      Double subsidy
      Over the next four years, Gujarat government aims to increase electric vehicle count in the state to 2 lakh units. A number of steps will be taken to achieve that goal. One of the key policy decisions is to increase subsidy for EVs registered in the state. The state government has stated that it will offer double the amount of subsidy in comparison to other states. This will be applicable on a per kilowatt basis.
      For two-wheelers, subsidy of up to Rs 20,000 has been approved. For three-wheelers and four-wheelers, the subsidy amount will be up to Rs 50,000 and Rs 1.5 lakh, respectively. This will be in addition to the subsidy already available under FAME-II scheme launched by the central government.
      This means that the electric scooters like Ather, Okinawa, Hero, Ampere, etc and electric cars like Tata Nexon Electric, MG ZS EV, Hyundai Kona electric – will get even more cheaper in Gujarat. This new policy will basically make electric vehicles cheapest in the state of Gujarat, as compared to anywhere else in India.
      Ather Electric Scooter
      The subsidy amount being offered by the state will be transferred to the buyer’s bank account via direct benefit transfer (DBT). This will eliminate any possibilities of fake subsidy claims or fraudulent operations. In other incentives, EVs registered in Gujarat will not be required to pay registration fee.
      Manufacturing and infrastructure ramp-up
      Gujarat government is aiming to make the state a hub for manufacturing of EVs and related parts and components. The government will also be encouraging investors and startups, who could contribute towards the development of better products in the EV space.
      On the infrastructure front, 250 new charging stations will be setup in the state. The state already has 278 charging stations. To setup more charging stations, the government has plans to use the space available with petrol pumps. Charging stations are also planned to be setup at housing societies and commercial complexes.
      Fuel savings and pollution control
      Within four years of implementing Gujarat’s new EV policy, several crores worth of fuel will be saved. Another key benefit will be 6 lakh ton reduction in CO2 emissions.
      With this new EV policy, EV sales could soon witness a boost in the state. Subsidy amount available under FAME-II has also been increased. With both subsidies combined, the price gap between EVs and fossil fuel powered vehicles could be reduced. Constantly rising prices of petrol and diesel is another factor that may motivate people to switch to electric. More

    • 100 Shares159 Views

      in Bike

      Yamaha FZ-X 150cc Motorcycle Launch On 18th June

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      New Yamaha FZ-XThe upcoming Yamaha FZ-X is expected to cost around Rs 5,000-10,000 over that of the standard FZ
      Yamaha has gone in for retro styling for the upcoming motorcycle which will launch on 18th June 2021. Last month, the same motorcycle got detailed in spy pictures taken during a TVC shoot. The company has also trademarked the name FZ-X for the new bike.
      The new Yamaha FZ-X will be based on the FZ-FI V3 and will share some styling features with the Yamaha XSR 150 sold in global markets. To be offered in three colour options of Blue, Orange, and Black, boasting of retro styling these include a circular headlamp, blacked out LEDs, a headlamp bracket, fork gaiters and a flat seat.
      There is also a teardrop shaped fuel tank, halogen powered turn indicators and a raised handlebar along with central set foot pegs offering the rider a more upright riding position. Features also include a fully digital instrument cluster, upswept exhausts and a tubular pillion grab rail. Its more relaxed riding position makes the FZ-X ideally suited for long highway riding or daily urban travel.
      Yamaha FZ-X, as per leaked documents, will stand 2,020mm in length, 785 mm in width and 1,115 mm in height with a 1,330 mm wheelbase. This makes it larger than the FZ FI though positioned on the same wheelbase.
      New Yamaha FZ-X
      Powertrain Option
      The new Yamaha FZ-X will share its engine lineup with the FZ FI and FZS FI. This 149 cc, air cooled, SOHC motor offers 12.2 hp power at 7,250 rpm and 13 Nm torque at 5,500 rpm mated to a 5 speed gearbox.
      Suspension and braking is via telescopic fork in the front and 7 step adjustable monoshock at the rear and 282mm disc brake in the front and 220 mm disc at the rear with single channel ABS (anti-lock braking system) offered as standard. The bike will ride on alloy wheels fitted with tubeless tyres.
      Yamaha currently commands a strong presence in the 150-200cc motorcycle segments with offerings such as the FZ, R15 and MT15 which help Yamaha hold a 20 percent market share. The new YZ-F will further strengthen the company’s portfolio in this space.
      2021 Yamaha FZ-X Specs
      Where competition is concerned the FZ-X will rival the Hero Xpulse 200 (Rs.1.13 lakhs) and Royal Enfield Himalayan (Rs.1.91 lakhs) while it will also take on the KTM 250 Adventure. More details will be revealed closer to launch date. More

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      in Bike

      2021 Triumph Bonneville Bobber India Launch Price Rs 11.75 L

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      2021 Triumph Bonneville Bobber
      Along with several feature and colour updates, the biggest change on the 2021 Bonneville Bobber is its BS6 compliant 1200cc high torque engine
      Triumph Motorcycles has updated its 2021 lineup of the Bonneville series and the Bonneville Bobber is a part of this update. The new Bobber gets enhanced features, new colour schemes and most of all an updated engine that now complies with the latest (Euro5 and BS6) emission norms worldwide.
      Triumph Bonneville Bobber is priced at Rs 11.75 lakh pan India. The Bobber is being sold in three colours of Matte Strom Grey with Matte Ironstone (Rs 12.05 lakh), Cordovan Red (Rs 11.88 lakh), and Jet Black (Rs 11.75 lakh) along with updated equipment and technology that sets it apart from its earlier counterpart.
      Features and Instrumentation
      2021 Triumph Bonneville Bobber gets blacked out elements and updated features that will allow for worldwide acceptance. These include steel fenders with a central ridge and return edge, flat bars and adjustable levers, a sculpted top yolk, rubber gaiters and a side mounted ignition barrel. It also gets blacked out bar end mirrors, LED bullet indicators and a new full LED headlamp and LED DRLs.
      Ride position is comfortable as it is adjustable with the seat being moved up and forward or down and backwards depending on rider choices. The instruments are also adjustable for better accessibility. Blacked out engine cover, cam cover and sprocket cover also enhance the looks of the new Bobber. It now sports a 12 liter fuel tank thereby resulting in 33 percent added range.
      2021 Triumph Bonneville Bobber
      The instrument cluster with a multi-function display unit is controlled via a handlebar mounted scroll button. It gets a new dial face with silver markings and integrated warning lights.
      The new Triumph Bobber rides on 16 inch fat wheel in the front and 47mm front fork with a wider rear wheel set up with Avon Cobra tyres that have been specially designed for the Bobber consisting of lightweight material for better manoeuvrability and best in class stability.
      Engine, Transmission and Braking
      2021 Bobber is powered by a 1200cc twin engine. This new engine offers 78 hp power at 6,100 rpm and 106 Nm torque at 4,000 rpm mated to a 6 speed gearbox. The engine complies with Euro 5 standard with lower levels of emission and higher fuel efficiency. It gets ride by wire system and two riding modes of Road and Rain and adjustable throttle response and traction control settings.
      Braking is via premium Brembo 2 piston calipers and twin discs in the front and single disc set up at the rear. ABS along with switchable traction control are also on offer for added rider’s safety. Triumph has also offered the Bobber with a longer service interval of 10,000 miles or 16,000 kms relating to a lower cost of ownership. More

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      in Electric Cars

      Ford F-150 Lightning Electric Pickup Debuts – Range Up To 482 Kms

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      Ford F-150 Lightning ElectricUpon its launch by mid-2022, Ford F-150 Lightning will be directly pitted against GMC Hummer EV Pickup and Tesla Cyber Truck
      Ford has officially revealed its upcoming F-series electric pickup truck called F-150 Lightning ahead of its launch next year. Before this, the upcoming electric pickup was also spotted in its full production-spec model in a separate event attended by the US President, Joe Biden when he visited the automaker’s Rouge-based facility in Dearborn.
      US President Takes It For A Spin
      While giving a speech at the manufacturing plant, a brand new Ford F-150 Lightning prototype wrapped in silver paint sans any camouflage was spotted in the background. In all likelihood, this prototype was placed purposefully so that the carmaker is able to generate enough excitement ahead of its official unveiling.’
      Ford F-150 Lightning Electric
      If that wasn’t enough to create a buzz, the President took a spin on one of the prototypes at the end of the event, this one though was wrapped under covers. Biden is well known for his love for automobiles and he couldn’t help but get his hands on the steering wheel of the upcoming electric F-150.
      Exterior Design
      Coming to its exterior design, F-150 Lightning appears to have the same body as the standard F-150. However, it sports notable differences to distinguish itself from its IC engine-powered sibling.
      Ford F-150 Lightning Electric
      For starters, the electric pickup truck gets a completely redesigned front end with distinctive LED headlights and an LED light bar stretching across the width of the fascia. The face is dominated by a faux grille wrapped in gloss black with a prominent Blue Oval badge carved in the centre.
      Ford F-150 Lightning Electric
      Other notable highlights such as the front bumper, raked windshield and squarish ORVMs wear a familiar look to the standard F-150. The freshly designed six-spoke alloy wheels are another attractive highlight. The images going around in social media appear to be of a crew cab version with a twin layout cabin which means it is expected to get a luggage bed measuring less than 1,676mm in length.
      Specs and Range
      New Ford F-150 Lightning Electric Pickup will be available in two battery options – both powered by lithium ion. The entry level gets a range of 230 miles / 370 kms while the other one gets 300 miles / 482 kms range. Depending on the variant, the charger will be different. The entry level will get 11.3 kW single charger while top variants with larger batter get 19.2 kW dual charger.
      Ford F-150 Lightning Electric
      Thanks to the dual charger, via fast charging, owners will be able to charge the F-150 Lightning from 15% to 80% in under 45 minutes. Via home charger, full charging of the battery is achieved in upto 19 hours. Ford has also equipped the F-150 Lightning with a system that in case of a power outage, you can use the car’s battery to power your house.
      Price of the new F-150 Lightning starts from $39,974 MSRP (Rs 29.25 lakh) and goes all the way to $90,000 (Rs 65.87 lakh). Bookings are now open. You can register your interest via Ford website with a deposit of $100. Deliveries expected to start by mid 2022. More

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      in Bike

      Royal Enfield Recalls 2.36 Lakh Motorcycles – Meteor, Bullet, Classic

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      Image for reference. Credit – stayaliveRoyal Enfield through a media release assured that it is committed to swiftly implement the recall action
      Royal Enfield has issued a recall of its motorcycles due to a manufacturing defect found in one of the parts used across some of its models. This recall is said to affect as many as 236,966 units of specific models including Meteor 350, Classic 350 and Bullet 350.
      Defect Identified
      In a mail released by the Chennai-based bikemaker, it states that the defect is in the ignition coil that can cause misfiring and reduced vehicle performance. In some exceptional cases, it can even cause an electric short circuit. The defect was uncovered during routine internal testing.
      The company has further stated that has been clearly identified and is limited to only specific batches of material sourced from an external supplier. The recall is set to affect motorcycles manufactured between December 2020 and April 2021.
      Meteor models affected and set to be recalled have been manufactured between the above-mentioned period. While Bullet and Classic models affected have been manufactured and sold between January and April 2021.
      New Royal Enfield Classic
      Recall Process
      Royal Enfield estimates that less than 10 percent of these bikes recalled will require replacement of the suspected part. The motorcycles will undergo inspection and if required, replacement of the said defective part and no extra cost will be charged on the customers.
      Although the iconic brand hasn’t revealed a specific start date for the recall activity, the service teams, and/or local dealerships will begin reaching out to consumers whose motorcycle Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) number falls within the manufacturing period mentioned above.
      Customers can also reach out to their local Royal Enfield Workshops proactively from their end or call Royal Enfield on 1800-210-007 to verify. This recall action will be applicable to Meteor. Classic and Bullet models sold not just in India but in other countries such as Thailand, Indonesia, Philippines, Malaysia, Australia and New Zealand as well. The company has reiterated that it has very stringent sourcing protocols and that all its motorcycles are rigorously tested to global validation standards of quality and durability.
      Classic, Bullet, Meteor Specs
      While Classic and Bullet share the same older generation underpinnings and 350cc motor, Meteor 350 is based on the new generation architecture and engine. Classic 350 and Bullet 350 are powered by a 346cc single-cylinder, air-cooled engine which produces 19.2 bhp and 28 N of peak torque.
      Whereas, the latest cruiser from Royal Enfield is powered by a 349cc, single-cylinder, air-cooled, long-stroke motor which kicks out 20.2 bhp of power and 27 Nm of peak torque. All three motorcycles are offered with a five-speed gearbox. More