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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

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      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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      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

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      in Bike

      Hero Harley 500cc Motorcycles Launch Planned – To Rival Royal Enfield

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      Upcoming 300cc cruiser from Harley DavidsonHarley connection can provide Hero the right thrust to enter the middleweight segment
      When Hero-Harley partnership for announced last year, there were quite a few questions and ambiguities about its scope and objectives. Things are starting to get clearer now, as Hero MotoCorp is said to be planning twin model bikes for middleweight segment. This arrangement would be something similar to BMW-TVS venture that’s led to the production of bikes like Apache RR 310 and BMW G 310 R.
      As part of Hero-Harley partnership, Hero is currently managing distribution, sales and service for Harley Davidson. As per the agreement, Hero will be developing mid-capacity bikes for Harley as well.
      Rebadged versions of these will be developed under the Hero brand also. These are expected to be positioned as relatively affordable options, as compared to Harley bikes of same capacity. The twin models are expected to share much of their hardware such as engine, chassis, etc.
      Challenger to Royal Enfield
      Globally, the middleweight motorcycle segment comprises products with engine capacity of 500cc to 900cc. In the Indian market, the preferences are skewed heavily in favour of 350cc-400cc motorcycles.
      Harley Davidson 300cc Roadster. Image – Cycle World.
      This segment is dominated by Royal Enfield, which commands around 90% market share. This is where Hero will be positioning its middleweight motorcycles. According to the company’s CFO, Niranjan Gupta, the development of these motorcycles is already underway. However, there’s no exact timeline about when these bikes will be unveiled.
      With Harley’s support, Hero could get a good start in the middleweight motorcycle segment. It can also seek encouragement from the fact that Honda CB350 has been registering consistent sales month after month. New products in this space may not influence hard-core Royal Enfield fans. However, folks with a neutral outlook can definitely think about trying something new.
      Portfolio expansion
      For years, Hero has remained the undisputed leader of commuter motorcycles. However, its dream of creating a bestseller in premium motorcycle segment is yet to be achieved. A number of attempts were made in the past such as 225cc Karizma ZMR. This had to be withdrawn in 2019 due to lack of desired sales numbers.
      Hero’s current portfolio maxes out at 200cc with products like Xpulse 200, Xpulse 200T and Xtreme 200S. These have been generating decent sales numbers, but there’s need to expand portfolio. The profit margin is much higher with premium motorcycles. For example, the profit margin on Pulsar is around double that of Hero’s bestseller Splendor.
      It will be interesting to see how the market responds to middleweight Hero motorcycles. As of now, the brand is synonymous with affordable commuter motorcycles. Breaking into the cult-like following of Royal Enfield has been a challenge for all manufacturers. It will continue to be so for Hero as well.
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      in Bike

      Upcoming Ather Electric Scooter Patent Leaks – More Range Than 450X?

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      Upcoming Ather Electric Scooter Sketch PatentedAther is reportedly developing a new e-scooter that will offer more range than the current 450x
      Ather Energy has been among the most prominent name in recent times in the Indian automotive market when it comes to electric mobility in the two-wheeler segment. The company rolled out its first electric two-wheeler in the form Ather 450 e-scooter back in 2018 which was met with more than favourable responses.
      This was followed up by two more premium and more powerful successors- 450X and 450 Plus. The Bangalore-based startup about six months ago shifted its manufacturing base from Bangalore to Hosur in Tamil Nadu in order to increase its annual production capacity. This is in line with the company’s idea of expansion with more new products.
      Expected Design
      Ather has filed design patents for a new electric scooter in India. The patent image shows a scooter that appears to be larger than the existing 450X and the design is in line with contemporary Maxi-style scooters.
      Signature Maxi scooter styling elements in the patent include a tall windscreen upfront and a front-heavy fairing. It gets a flat single-piece seat along with a wide front apron featuring a sleek LED headlamp.
      Upcoming Ather Electric Scooter patents
      Contrary to the design of Maxi scooters, this one gets an absolutely flat floorboard and minimalist rear section. Other styling highlights include a short front fender, black alloy wheels, chiselled side body panels and a disc brake at front. Apart from the exterior design, Ather has also patented the swingarm as well as the chassis of a new electric scooter.
      Obviously, this is just a patent and the final production-spec model could end up looking very different from this one. If this e-scooter does come into existence, then it is likely to be offered as a premium product with more features, improved range and more power.
      Ather 450X
      Ather Energy’s current e-scooter 450X has been very well received across the Indian market. It is offered in two variants- Plus and Pro with the former being priced at Rs. 1,41,621 and the latter being pegged at a price of Rs. 1,60,633 (both prices are ex-showroom). It comes in three colour options- grey, green and white. 450X comes with a bagful of features including a Bluetooth-enabled (4.2) touchscreen instrument cluster, all LED lighting, integrated 4G LTE SIM connectivity and music & call controls among others.
      As far as performance goes, the powertrain features a 2.9kWh battery pack which feeds energy to a 3.3kW electric motor rated to produce an output of 8.04 bhp and 26 Nm of torque. It can sprint 0-40 kmph in 3.3 seconds and claims a range of 85km on a single charge. Hardware configurations comprise telescopic forks at front and a rear mono-shock at rear. Braking duties are handled by single disc brakes at both ends. More

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      in Bike

      Bajaj Pulsar 250F Spied Testing – Likely To Be The Fastest Pulsar Yet

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      2022 Bajaj Pulsar 220FWhen Bajaj launched Pulsar 220F, it was branded as The Fastest Indian – Upcoming 250F will sit above the 220F
      Bajaj Auto is planning to expand its Pulsar range of sporty commuted motorcycles by adding new models in the coming future. A few weeks ago, a test mule of what was speculated to be a naked version of new Pulsar 250 was spotted testing.
      In addition to this, the Chakan-based bikemaker introduced the entry-level Pulsar NS125 into the lineup last month. The company also gave a mild refresh to Pulsar 150, 180 and 220F models with new colour options. Now, a semi-faired version of the upcoming quarter-litre Pulsar has been spotted conducting trial tests on roads.
      This upcoming quarter-litre sports commuter is expected to carry either F or RS nomenclature which are usually associated with faired motorcycles. In most likelihood, it will be named 250F just like the current flagship in the lineup 220F. Although the test prototype spotted was heavily wrapped in camouflage, it did reveal a few obvious details about its styling.
      Expected Design & Features
      For instance, like Pulsar 220F, the upcoming 250F is likely to receive a front-heavy fairing adjoining the fuel tank and headlamp section. It gets a tall handlebar which provides easy maneuverability and an aggressive stance thanks to a muscular fuel tank with extended shrouds and bikini fairing.
      2022 Bajaj Pulsar 220F
      Other notable highlights include upswept side exhaust, an upright tail section and a split seat setup. The rear end of the prototype, especially the split grab rails and curved taillight are reminiscent of its immediate rival brand TVS Apache.
      In terms of features, it is expected to offer an all-LED lighting setup and all-digital instrument console with colour display. If Bajaj is generous then it may also offer Bluetooth connectivity. Although images of the bike’s front end are not available at the moment, it is expected to boast a tall windscreen to counter a strong windblast.
      Expected Specs
      Coming to its specifications, Bajaj is expected to offer a whole new 250cc oil-cooled motor for its quarter-litre Pulsar motorcycles. The company already has a 248.8cc, fuel-injected, single-cylinder, liquid-cooled engine at its disposal which it utilises for its own Dominar and other KTM and Husqvarna models. The new 250cc motor on Pulsar 250 will be capable of generating around 24 bhp and will be paired with a six-speed gearbox.
      2022 Bajaj Pulsar 220F
      Other mechanical components should include conventional telescopic forks at front and a mono-shock at rear. Braking duties will be handled by single disc brakes on both ends which will be assisted by dual-channel ABS as standard. It is also expected to be offered with multiple ride modes. Upon its launch, Pulsar 250F will lock its horns with Suzuki Gixxer SF250.
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