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    China’s Chery Exeed Platforms to Power Future Jaguar Land Rover Electric Cars

    Future JLR EVs to be built on China’s Chery platformJLR is following other Western legacy car manufacturers to source platforms for their next-gen vehicles from Chinese OEMsYou must have seen Land Rover’s official teasers of the new all-electric Range Rover testing in extreme conditions. The company claims it will be the quietest Range Rover ever made, owing to the obvious advantages of an electric powertrain. Now, it is revealed that, JLR’s (Jaguar Land Rover) future EVs will be based on platforms sourced from Chinese carmaker Chery.Jaguar Land Rover And Chery – The long-standing partnershipIt is a known fact that JLR and Chery have a long and fruitful partnership, mainly in the Chinese market. Both brands entered a partnership in 2012 and have been co-producing vehicles. The two companies even share a car manufacturing facility in China that has been manufacturing cars from 2014.Super Hybrid Platform By Chery To Be Used On Jaguar Land Rover CarsIn a major move by Tata Motors owned JLR and Chery Group owned Exeed, the joint venture is now extended where JLR will use two of the potent platforms developed by Exeed for their future vehicles. As confirmed by Yin Tongyao, president of Chery Group, JLR will be their new platform recipient. JLR will source Exeed’s M3X and E0X platforms.As per the agreement, JLR will be able to freely use both platforms on their next-gen vehicles that could be launched under Range Rover, Discovery and Defender umbrellas. M3X is locally also called T2X and it supports both traditional ICE powertrains and even PHEV (Plug-In Hybrid Electric Vehicle) powertrains.Electric Range RoverWhat are these platforms capable of?This very platform, touted as ‘Super Hybrid’ in a few Chery cars like Exeed RX PHEV, Chery Fulwin T9 and others, is capable of achieving nine operating modes, 11 gear combinations, over 1000-km range, and a thermal efficiency of 44.5%. All this, with the help of an IC engine and two electric motors paired to the world’s first gearbox to adopt two electric motors.The other modular platform that JLR is sourcing from Chery Group owned Exeed is the E0X, which was co-developed with Huawei. This platform is suitable for both EVs and EREV (Extended Range EVs) hybrids and incorporates an 800V architecture. With 12 kWh/100 km consumption rating, air suspension, advanced autonomous driving and attributes, it is fit for high-end vehicles with range extenders.Currently, E0X platform underpins Chery Group vehicles like Exlantix ES, Exlantix ET, Luxeed S7, and Luxeed R7. These platforms could fill in the blanks where JLR is currently lacking, which is new energy vehicles.JLR’s move to source Chinese platforms might prove shocking to many. However, it is a more widespread phenomenon than one might think. Auto giant, Volkswagen, has announced XPeng’s platform. Audi is sourcing SAIC’s platform. Brands like Lotus, Smart and Volvo are using Geely’s platforms and Renault is sourcing Chinese technology for its upcoming Twingo too.Source More

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    2024 Tata Nexon EV Safety Rating – 5 Stars

    Tata Nexon EV crash test – Bharat NCAP 20242024 Tata Nexon EV Safety Rating: BNCAP’s First Compact Electric Car Safety Test – Driver SafetyWhat’s the 2024 Tata Nexon EV Safety Rating? The compact car in the first EV in the segment to be tested by BNCAP. Gross vehicle weight stands at 1816 kg. Driver safety in the TATA Nexon EV includes multiple airbags.Frontal airbag, side head curtain airbag, and side chest airbag come standard. Belt pretensioners and load-limiters also enhance driver protection. Knee and side pelvis airbags are not available as si true with the segment.Tata Nexon EV crash test – Bharat NCAP 2024Tata Nexon EV Passenger SafetyPassenger safety mirrors driver protection with similar standard features. Frontal, side head curtain, and side chest airbags. Belt pretensioners and load-limiters are standard for passengers too. The absence of knee and side pelvis airbags aligns with the design strategy prioritising critical safety areas.Rear seat safety emphasises child protection. Standard ISOFIX anchor points support outboard seats, facilitating secure child seat installation. Rear passengers benefit from side head curtain airbags with focus on primary crash protection.Tata Nexon EV crash test – Bharat NCAP 2024Safety Assist in Tata Nexon EVSafety assist technologies include Standard Electronic Stability Control (ESC) . This caters to vehicle stability during critical manoeuvres. Pedestrian protection systems and seat belt reminders for all seats further demonstrate a comprehensive approach.[embedded content]TATA Nexon EV’s ratings applicability specifies the variants it’s applicable to. The Long Range (LR) including CRE, EMP and EMP DK, and FEA and FEA DK. Medium Range (MR) variants include CRE, EMP, FEA for transparent safety evaluations.Why Safety Matters in EVs – Tata Nexon EV Safety RatingWhy is safety a priority cars/EVs? The importance of crash protection in vehicles manifests itself as a safety badge. Incorporating features like airbags, ESC, and pedestrian protection meets laid out crash test standards. Indian government says, the future is electric.Tata Nexon EV crash test – Bharat NCAP 2024Evaluating the safety equipment a car reveals its strengths and areas for improvement. Understanding the impact of standard safety assist technologies is crucial. ESC enhances vehicle control, while seat belt reminders ensure occupants’ safety. These technologies reflect the integration of essential safety features, aiming to reduce accident risks and impact, and enhance occupant protection.Hence, integrating key safety features and assist technologies is a reliable protection approach. And needs to match evolving standards of vehicle safety expected from electric vehicles. Tata Nexon EV BNCAP 5 star rating entails a score of Adult Occupant Protection (AOP) 29.86/ 32 and Child Occupant Protection (COP) 44.95/ 49. Adult Occupant Protection scores are rated as follows – Frontal Offset Deformable Barrier Test: 14.26 out of 16.00; Side Movable Deformable Barrier Test:15.60 out of 16.00. Child Occupation Protection is rated at 44.95/ 49.00.Also Read – Tata Punch EV Scores 5 Star Safety Rating In Bharat NCAP 2024 More

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    Honda CRF 300 ADV Showcased In India – Spotted Next To Himalayan

    Honda 300cc ADVs spied next to Himalayan 450 in IndiaHonda 2W India has already announced that they are working on launching new ADVs – Now, they have showcased a few to select individualsIn a thrilling development for motorcycle enthusiasts, the Honda Sahara 300, CRF300L and CRF300L Rally have been spotted in India, igniting speculation about their potential launch in the burgeoning sub-400cc adventure bike market. These sightings at BigRock Dirtpark in Bengaluru have created a buzz among off-road and adventure biking communities.Honda 300cc ADVs Spotted in IndiaImages are credited to adventure motorcyclist, Gauthaman Ramesh. The sub-400cc adventure segment has been gaining significant traction in India over the past few years, drawing the attention of major manufacturers. This segment’s growth is prompting brands to consider introducing models that are already popular in international markets. Honda’s recent sightings suggest that the company might be exploring similar opportunities.Honda CRF 300 ADV Showcased In IndiaThe sighting of these bikes follows the recent spottings of the Kawasaki KLX230 S, indicating heightened interest from Japanese manufacturers in India’s adventure bike segment. However, it’s important to note that the Honda CRF300L had been spotted in India around two years ago, leading to similar speculation at the time, but no official launch followed those sightings.Specifications and FeaturesBoth the CRF300L and the CRF300L Rally are powered by a 286cc, liquid-cooled, single-cylinder engine that produces 27.3 PS of power and 26.6 Nm of torque. Despite sharing the same engine, the two models differ in their configurations and intended uses.Honda CRF 300 ADV Showcased In IndiaThe CRF300L Rally is designed with a high-rise handlebar, an LCD instrument console positioned above the handlebar for rally-style riding, a tall windscreen, dual-LED headlight setup, a sump guard, and tank extensions, making it more suitable for long-distance and rugged terrains.Honda CRF 300 ADV Showcased In IndiaImport and SpeculationThe current sightings are believed to be private imports by customers rather than indicative of an imminent official launch. Without an official statement from Honda, the possibility of these models being introduced in the Indian market remains uncertain. If Honda does decide to launch these models in India, they are expected to be available through the Completely Built Up (CBU) route.Based on the US market prices, where the CRF300L and CRF300L Rally are priced at $5,449 and $6,199 respectively, industry experts estimate that if these bikes are launched in India via the CBU route, their prices could be in the Rs 4-5 lakh range. This pricing strategy would align with other models brought to India through the CBU route, such as the Yamaha R3 and the MT-03, which are priced in a similar price bracket.If launched via the CKD route, these new Honda ADVs could be priced competitively. This will help them take on the Royal Enfield Himalayan 450, which is also seen in the video parked next to the Honda 300 cc ADVs. More

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    New Hyundai Inster EV Teased With 355km Range – Punch EV Rival?

    Hyundai Inster EV TeasedHyundai Inster EV is not confirmed for India, but similar powertrain might make its way to upcoming Exter EV and rival Punch EVElectric cars are currently gaining popularity in India and is among the priorities for most car manufacturers. Hyundai seems to be diving in at the idea with Creta EV, speculated to be launched in early 2025. What about the A-segment where faster adoption of E-mobility makes more sense? Recently teased Hyundai Inster gives us an idea.Hyundai Inster EV Teased – Design and AppealEver wondered what an electric version of Hyundai Casper would look like? Hyundai just gave us the answer in the form of Inster EV. If you’re wondering if Exter means outdoorsy adventure lifestyle and Inster means something to be driven inside the city, that would be wrong. In fact, Inster name has nothing to do with Exter at all.Hyundai Inster EV NameAccording to Hyundai, Inster name is inspired by the words “intimate” and “innovative”, combined with Casper name, the vehicle on which it is based. As of now, Casper is Korea only and Hyundai is tight-lipped about the intended markets for the recently teased Inster EV.Hyundai Inster EV Casper’s SilhouetteCasper was first introduced in 2021 and the upcoming Inster will carry a similar silhouette as seen in Hyundai’s teaser image. Inster will get a unique fascia, but is reminiscent of Casper. We can see a similar bonnet, windscreen and overall side silhouette. Charging port is at the front, but not centred, like in Punch EV.Hyundai Inster EV Vs CasperInster boasts new pixel-style quad-element circular LED DRLs and pixel-style 7-element LED turn indicators too. Tail lights get a pixel effect as well. Alloy wheels of Hyundai Inster look unique, though. Just like Casper, Inster will come equipped with crossover bits like roof rails, body cladding and reasonably high ground clearance.According to Hyundai, INSTER is poised to set new standards in driving range and technology, and safety features. Speaking of range, company has revealed that Inster will do 355 km (WLTP) on a single charge. Battery and motor specs were not disclosed.Hyundai Inster EV FasciaShould Hyundai launch it in India?India has been embracing e-mobility solutions at a decent pace. More companies have been exploring EVs today, than they ever did, in India. Hyundai is one of the companies selling electric cars in India. Soon, the company will explore electric mobility solutions in the mainstream segment.Currently, Hyundai Kona price starts from Rs. 23.84 lakh (Ex-sh) and Creta EV, when launched, is likely to start upwards of Rs. 16 lakh (Ex-sh). Lion’s share of India’s electric car sales is from smaller electric vehicles like Punch EV, Tiago EV and MG’s Comet EV. So, targeting this space is paramount for any OEMs to push more volumes.Hyundai Inster EV Charging PortEven though the South Korean brand has not confirmed Inster for India (yet), it makes perfect sense. Inster’s crossover design looks miles better than Exter launched in India and it would naturally target Punch EV, which is currently the hottest EV in mainstream segment. Or, the powertrain from this Inster EV will be similar to what we will get in Exter EV in the future. Or Kia Clavis EV or Syros EV.Hyundai Inster EV LED DRLs More

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    2024 Bajaj Chetak New Variant Launch Price Rs 96k – 123 Kms Range, 5 Colours

    2024 Bajaj Chetak New VariantNew entry-level model of Bajaj Chetak will compete with other budget-friendly electric scooters like the Ola S1 Air and Ather 450SWith its rugged full metal body and reliable performance, Bajaj Chetak has emerged as one of the popular electric scooters in the country. In FY2024, Chetak was ranked at fourth place in the list of bestselling electric two-wheelers. Its market share was at 11.31%.New Chetak base variant to boost salesBajaj has launched a new affordable version of Chetak, called Chetak 2901. It is priced at Rs 95,998, ex-sh Bangalore. 5 colour options are on offer – Red, White, Black, Lime Yellow and Azure Blue. It will be available in over 500 showrooms across India. It delivers 123 kilometres (ARAI-certified) range.2024 Bajaj Chetak New VariantMr. Eric Vas, President, President, Urbanite, Bajaj Auto Ltd., shared, “We are pleased to announce the start of shipments of Chetak 2901 to Chetak dealerships. The Chetak 2901 is designed, specced and priced to attract customers who are currently purchasing a petrol scooter to a proper full size metal body electric scooter that can match and exceed a petrol scooter, without denting their wallet.The Chetak 2901 can be had for an on-road price close to that of a petrol scooter and comes with more than 123 kms of ARAI certified range. Retails to consumers shall start from 15 June onwards. We believe Chetak 2901 shall dramatically expand the electric scooter market.”2024 Bajaj Chetak New VariantChetak 2901 offers a range of features designed to enhance rider comfort and convenience, including a Coloured Digital Console, Alloy Wheels, and Bluetooth Connectivity. For those seeking additional upgrades, the TecPac package is available. The TecPac provides advanced features such as Hill Hold, Reverse, Sport and Economy modes, Call and Music Control, Follow Me Home lights, and enhanced Bluetooth App connectivity.3 Chetak Variants On OfferThis new Chetak 2901 variant joins the existing 2 Bajaj Chetak variants – Chetak Urbane and Chetak Premium. These are equipped with 2.9 kWh and 3.2 kWh battery packs while range is 113 km and 126 km, respectively. Both scooters have a top speed of 73 kmph. Chetak Urbane variant is available at a starting price of Rs 1.23 lakh. Chetak Premium starts at Rs 1.47 lakh.Bajaj’s strategy to launch an affordable version of Chetak is in line with emerging trends in the industry. Many electric two-wheeler brands such as Ola Electric and Ather have introduced affordable variants for consumers. One of the objectives is to reduce the adverse impact coming from reduction in government subsidies. It is to note that many states have completely stopped subsidies for EVs, as the allocated funds have been exhausted.Affordable EVs will make it easier for consumers to make the switch from ICE to electric. If ICE age were to end, the new breed of affordable electric two-wheelers would play a crucial role. Chetak Premium, Chetak Urbane, and Chetak 2901 have received approval for the Electric Mobility Promotion Scheme (EMPS) subsidy from the Ministry of Heavy Industries (MHI). Bajaj Auto Ltd. is part of the Government of India’s Production-Linked Incentive (PLI) Scheme for Electric Vehicles. More

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    Kia EV3 Compact SUV Prices, Variants Revealed – KRW 42.1 m (Rs 25.6 Lakh)

    Kia EV3 Compact Electric SUVAfter EV6 and EV9, Kia has introduced the EV3 compact SUV to bolster its presence in electric segmentIn its home market, Kia has opened bookings and announced the prices of EV3 compact electric SUV. Details about the variants and features have also been published. Kia EV3 will go on sale in South Korea in July after getting the necessary approvals.Kia EV3 variants and pricingEV3 base-spec model is available at a starting price of KRW 42.08 million (approx. Rs 25.59 lakh). Next is the EV3 Earth variant, priced at KRW 45.71 million (Rs 27.80 lakh). The GT Line variant has a price tag of KRW 46.66 million (Rs 28.37 lakh). The EV3 Long Range variant has the same pricing as the GT Line variant. The prices will be reduced for customers after applying the tax benefits available for EVs in South Korea.Kia EV3 Compact Electric SUVOverall styling for EV3 is based on Kia’s ‘Opposites United’ design philosophy. Some of the key features include vertically stacked small ice-cube projector LED headlamps, star map LED DRLs, uniquely-themed alloy wheels and blacked-out pillars. A total of 7 exterior colour options are available with Kia EV3. Inside, users can choose from 3 interior colour themes.EV3 packs in a comprehensive range of premium features. It includes dual 12.3-inch integrated screens, 12-inch head-up display, double D-cut steering wheel and dynamic ambient lighting. Interiors are designed with focus on enhancing the sense of roominess. The spaces look clutter-free, with only a few physical buttons on the central console area. Users can access a plethora of connected features.[embedded content]A comprehensive range of safety features are available with Kia EV3. It includes 9 airbags and advanced ADAS functions. Kia EV3 utilizes ultra-high-tensile hot stamping parts and reinforced body structure to ensure passenger safety in the event of a crash.Kia EV3 Compact Electric SUVKia EV3 – Specs, performanceEV3 is underpinned by Hyundai Motor Group’s E-GMP electric vehicle platform. The SUV utilizes the company’s 4th-gen battery technology. The standard model is equipped with a 58.3 kWh unit, whereas the long-range model has an 81.4 kWh battery pack. Certified range is 350 km for the standard model and 501 km for the long-range model. When using a 350-kW fast charger, the standard model can be charged from 10% to 80% in 29 minutes. The long-range model takes 31 minutes.Kia has introduced special features that are designed to optimize airflow and increase range. It includes the 17-inch aerodynamic wheels, side sill undercover, bumper integrated active air flap, wheel gap reducer and 3D curvature shaped front and rear undercover. Kia EV3 is available with a single electric motor mounted on the front wheel. It delivers 150 kW (200 bhp) and 283 Nm.New Kia EV3 Compact SUVKia EV3 – India launchWith the EV segment gaining traction in India, it is possible that Kia EV3 could be launched here. For the Indian market, Kia may offer the standard model that has the 58.3 kWh battery pack. Kia is also working on other EVs for India. Carens EV launch has been confirmed for 2025. Then there is another small SUV EV in the making, which is rumoured to be called Clavis / Syros upon launch. More

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    New MG Sub 4m Electric Car Patented – Nexon EV Rival

    Wuling BinguoEV Patented In IndiaWhere rivals are concerned, new MG sub 4m electric car, the BinguoEV, will rival Nexon EV, Punch EV, Citroen eC3 and XUV400One new NEV (New Energy Vehicle) every three to six months. That’s what JSW MG Motor India JV thinks it will take to recreate what Sajjan Jindal, MD of JSW Steel, referred to, as ‘The Maruti Moment’. The company is rigorously working in that direction and has patented one of its (potentially) upcoming EVs in India. Say Namaste to BinguoEV.New MG Sub 4m Electric Car PatentedBack in December 2023, SAIC GM Wuling conglomerate launched BinguoEV in Indonesia. If you’re wondering whether it is the same car as Wuling Bingo, Bingo (see what I did there?). In our previous post, we expressed how BinguoEV can be one of the potential launches for India to rival the likes of Tata Nexon EV, Citroen eC3 and to some extent, Mahindra XUV400.Wuling BinguoEV Patented In IndiaWhere dimensions are concerned, upcoming MG BinguoEV measures 3,950 mm in length, 1,708 mm in width, 1,580 mm in height and has a long wheelbase of 2,560 mm and boasts up to 790L boot space. BinguoEV is based on SGMW Global Small Electric Vehicle platform and it shares a few interior elements with MG Comet EV.In India, SAIC GM Wuling vehicles will launch under the MG brand. In keeping with JSW MG Motor India’s ambitious roadmap, we would reckon BinguoEV might launch in India by 2025. Indonesian pricing starts from IDR 317 million and goes till IDR 372 million which roughly translates to Rs. 16.27 lakh and Rs. 19.09 lakh in today’s currency exchange rates.Wuling BinguoEV launched in Indonesia in 3 coloursWhere design is concerned, Wuling BinguoEV has a cute-sy appeal with a curvaceous body and smooth sheet metal profiling. Overall design and proportions remind me of a new Fiat 500. Design highlights include X-shaped LED elements in the headlights, water-splash design wheel caps on 15-inch wheels, dual-tone floating roof exterior appeal, and X-shaped LEDs in tail lights. There are disc brakes at all four wheels too.The colour palette includes Milk Tea, Mousse Green and Galaxy Blue. BinguoEV interiors share a few components with Comet EV like the dual screens and steering wheel. There is leatherette cladding on dashboard and door panels with stitching along with shiny metallic-looking materials.Wuling BinguoEV InteriorsSpecs and RangeIn Indonesia, Wuling is offering two powertrain configurations – a 31.9 kWh battery with a 41 bhp motor and 333 km range or a 37.9 kWh battery with a 68 bhp motor and 410 km claimed range. Unlike MG Comet, Binguo EV gets DC charging compatibility too with a charging port on front right fender. Interestingly, BinguoEV gets a lifetime warranty with an asterisk, a free 7kW charger and a few free accessories in Indonesia.Suppose JSW MG Motor India is positioning BinguoEV above Comet EV as a more practical 5-Door electric hatchback that is smaller than their upcoming Cloud EV. We can see how it might be a compelling product. However, pricing has to be right. Considering MG’s pricing strategies since their debut in India have been reasonable, we can expect it to undercut Nexon EV by some margin.Wuling BinguoEV Patented In India More

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    New Gen Hero Splendor XTEC 2.0 Launch Price Rs 83k – Mileage 73 Kmpl

    New Gen Hero Splendor XTEC 2.0Hero MotoCorp Unveils the Next-Generation Splendor+ XTEC 2.0 – New Model Celebrates 30 Years with Advanced Features and Premium DesignHero MotoCorp, the world’s largest manufacturer of motorcycles and scooters, has officially launched the Splendor+ XTEC 2.0, the latest iteration of its iconic Splendor motorcycle. This launch marks the 30th anniversary of the Splendor, the world’s highest-selling motorcycle, and introduces several cutting-edge features to the beloved model.New Gen Hero Splendor XTEC 2.0The Splendor+ XTEC 2.0 retains its classic design while incorporating modern enhancements that cater to today’s tech-savvy riders. The new model features LED headlights with High Intensity Position Lamp (HIPL) technology and a unique H-shaped signature tail lamp that ensures a distinctive look on the road. These updates, combined with a remarkable fuel efficiency of 73 kmpl, position the Splendor+ XTEC 2.0 as a leading choice for both urban and rural riders.New Gen Hero Splendor XTEC 2.0Key technological advancements in the Splendor+ XTEC 2.0 include a fully digital speedometer with an Eco-indicator for improved fuel management, Real Time Mileage Indicator (RTMI), and Bluetooth connectivity for call and SMS alerts. For enhanced safety, the motorcycle is equipped with hazard lights and a side-stand engine cutoff.Additionally, the model features a longer seat for increased comfort, a larger glove box with a hinge-type design, and a USB charger for added convenience. The Splendor+ XTEC 2.0 is available across Hero MotoCorp dealerships at an attractive price of Rs. 82,911 (Ex-showroom, Delhi).New Gen Hero Splendor XTEC 2.0Ranjivjit Singh, Chief Business Officer – India BU, Hero MotoCorp, said, “Splendor is an iconic brand with an unmatched leadership spanning 30 years. The motorcycle has won millions of hearts and continues to encourage India’s growth by empowering people through accessible mobility. Splendor’s enduring success is a testament to Hero MotoCorp’s continuous innovation, brand trust and product reliability. A perfect blend of iconic design, latest technology, and practicality, the Splendor is an emotion, a symbol of progress, and the unwavering aspirations of 40 million happy customers.”New Gen Hero Splendor XTEC 2.0Engine and PerformanceThe Splendor+ XTEC 2.0 is powered by a 100cc engine that delivers 7.9 BHP at 8000 rpm and a maximum torque of 8.05 Nm at 6000 rpm. Enhanced by the i3s (Idle Stop Start System), this engine provides best-in-class fuel economy. The bike’s higher fuel efficiency, coupled with a low maintenance cost and an extended service interval of 6000 km, significantly reduces the running costs for owners.Convenience and ConnectivityDesigned with rider utility in mind, the Splendor+ XTEC 2.0 includes a fully digital instrument cluster featuring an eco-indicator, RTMI, service reminder, and a side stand indicator. The inclusion of Bluetooth connectivity enables riders to receive calls, SMS, and battery alerts directly on the motorcycle’s display.New Gen Hero Splendor XTEC 2.0Safety and StylingSafety features are abundant in the Splendor+ XTEC 2.0, with hazard light winkers, a dedicated hazard switch, side-stand engine cutoff, and a bank angle sensor. Tubeless tyres enhance safety by preventing instant deflation in case of punctures. The bike’s lighting system has been upgraded to improve nighttime visibility with a brighter and more consistent light output.The Splendor+ XTEC 2.0 is available in three eye-catching dual-tone colour options: Matte Grey, Gloss Black, and Gloss Red, each contributing to the bike’s premium and stylish appearance. With the Splendor+ XTEC 2.0, Hero MotoCorp continues its tradition of innovation and customer-centric design, offering a motorcycle that blends timeless appeal with modern-day functionalities. More