Facelifts for a sedan and an SUV, and the launch of a new EV are expected from Audi in the next year.
Audi India seems to have had a successful 2023, registering a growth of 88 percent in the first nine months of this year, posting sales of over 5,500 units. The German luxury brand filled out both ends of its portfolio during the year, bringing the Q3 Sportback, the Q8 e-tron, and the Q8 e-tron Sportback to the market. For 2024, Audi will bring at least two facelifts and an all-new EV to the country. Here’s what’s coming and when.
Disclaimer: All launch timelines and ex-showroom prices are estimates.
Updates for the Audi Q8 are largely cosmetic in nature – both inside and out – and will include the addition of HD Matrix LED headlights. The same 340hp, 3.0-litre V6 turbo-petrol engine, 8-speed automatic and Quattro AWD system from the pre-facelift model will continue. Having driven the Q8 facelift, we can confirm that the update is a rather mild one. However, that should also help keep prices similar to the outgoing model’s Rs 1.07 crore-1.43 crore.
It’ll be about a year after the Audi A6 facelift was revealed for international markets that it’ll come to India. The model unveiled in May 2023 had subtle exterior tweaks, relatively minor interior changes, and a few new features. The refreshed A6’s exterior will get revised matrix LED headlights with a cleaner look for the DRLs, along with a more prominent single-frame grille, and nips and tucks for the front and rear bumpers. There’ll also be a new set of alloy wheels on offer. The current model’s 245hp, 2.0-litre mild-hybrid turbo-petrol engine and 7-speed dual-clutch automatic are expected to continue unchanged.
Audi Q6 e-tron
Price: Rs 1 crore Launch: Late 2024 Battery: TBA
The Q6 e-tron is an all-new electric SUV based on Audi’s newly developed Premium Platform Electric (PPE), which features the latest battery and charging technology as well as the brand’s new ‘E3’ electronics architecture. Full powertrain details are yet to be revealed, but it will use an 800V architecture with a range of around 600km. Its interior will include Audi’s new infotainment tech with twin screens in a curved layout – an 11.9-inch digital instrument cluster and a 14.5-inch infotainment touchscreen – and an additional 10.9-inch screen for the front passenger. Another talking point will be the Q6 e-tron’s advanced digital matrix LED headlights with a multi-pixel LED array, and its second-generation digital OLED technology. As its name suggests, the Q6 e-tron is likely to be a smaller, more affordable Audi electric SUV positioned below the Q8 e-tron.
The Honda Elevate was recently announced for the Japanese market as the Honda WR-V. The SUV will be made in India and exported to the Japanese market with sales set to begin in March next year. With the new WR-V all set to arrive in Japan, the automaker has previewed a special off-road spec version of the SUV that will be showcased at Tokyo Auto Salon 2024 in January.
By: Sameer Fayaz Contractor | Updated on: 26 Dec 2023, 22:22 PM
The Honda WR-V Field Explorer Concept will bring a more rugged look to the compact SUV, and is based on the Elevate sold in India
The special off-road spec Honda WR-V has been named the WR-V Field Explorer Concept. The concept gets a host of accessories to give it a more off-road-specific look. The teaser image reveals what Honda calls a “Tough Style” exterior. The chrome bits have been finished in gloss black along with smoked headlamps. The SUV also gets a different grille finished in all-black, three pilot lights, and yellow fog lights. The bumper gets additional black cladding and side cladding for a more muscular look.
The Honda WR-V for Japan will go on sale in March 2024 and will be exported from the automaker’s Tapukara facility
The black treatment continues on the ORVMs and roof spoiler, while the taillights appear to get the smoked look as well. A roof rail has also been added to the SUV to complete the rugged appeal. Expect to see more changes and accessories added to the concept when it is fully revealed next month.
It needs to be seen if Honda will make any changes to the mechanicals on the WR-V Field Explorer Concept. The standard WR-V announced for Japan will get the 1.5-litre petrol engine paired with only an automatic transmission. The India-spec model gets a 6-speed manual as well. The Japanese and Indian models are largely identical barring a few subtle differences on the interior including a different infotainment system on the former.
Apart from the HondaWR-V Field Explorer Concept, the company will also showcase the Accord e:HEV Sports Line and the Red Bull RB19 F1 race car at Tokyo Auto Salon 2024. The annual event will be held between January 12-14.
This is Hyundai’s second donation to the state government after the previous contribution of ₹3 crore made in the immediate aftermath of the cyclone. The company says it is already working with the government authorities to distribute essential relief kits comprising dry rations, tarpaulin, bedsheets and mats in districts such as Chennai, Kancheepuram, Tiruvallur and Chengalpattu.
Commenting on the additional contribution, Un Soo Kim, MD & CEO – Hyundai Motor India, said, “Tamil Nadu, our home state, has faced the brunt of Cyclone Michaung, and the aftermath has left many in distress. The resilience and unity displayed by the people of Tamil Nadu in the face of adversity are truly inspiring. To contribute tangibly to the recovery efforts, Hyundai Motor India Foundation has extended an additional fund of INR 2 crore to Tamil Nadu State Disaster Management Authority, which will be utilized to provide necessary flood relief and support for the affected communities.”
Tamil Nadu has been home to Hyundai Motor India since the South Korean brand arrived in India in 1998. The company operates three plants located in Sriperumbudur that produce cars for domestic and export markets.
The automaker also revealed a dedicated medical camp will be established to address the immediate medical needs. Hyundai also plans to offer special counselling sessions to the affected people, while undertaking village cleaning initiatives to address the post-cyclone sanitation challenges.
This was achieved in 94 months since the original Vitara Brezza’s launch in March 2016.
Eight months after it recorded cumulative sales of 9 lakh units, the Maruti Brezza has breezed past the 10 lakh or a million-unit sales milestone in India. To drive past this record figure, it took the Brezza – originally the Vitara Brezza – 94 months or 7 years and eight months, from launch on March 2016 through to early December 2023.
Overtakes Tata Nexon as best-selling SUV in FY2024
Addition of CNG variant this year boosted sales
Maruti Brezza hits 1 million sales milestone
From launch in March 2016 to end-November 2023, the Brezza is estimated to have sold 996,608 units, just 3,392 units shy of the million mark, which it would have surpassed in the first week of December 2023. This year itself, in the period between April to November, the Brezza is estimated to have sold 1,11,371 units, averaging monthly sales of 13,921 units or 3,480 a week or 497 units every day.
If the compact SUV maintains the same sales momentum in the remaining four months of FY2024, the Brezza could go on to clock an estimated 1,67,055 units – its highest for this model in a fiscal year after the 1,57,880 units in FY2019.
Interestingly, the Brezza’s sales in the first 8 months of FY2024 make it the best-selling SUV in India at present, 593 units ahead of the Tata Nexon that has sold an estimated 1,10,778 units in the same period. Only two other SUVs have sold in excess of 1,00,000 units in the April-November 2023 period – the Hyundai Creta (1,08,584 units) and the Tata Punch (1,02,326 units).
This article will provide you with the information about the battery-motor specs like power, torque, battery capacity, driving range and mileage details of the Audi Q8 E-Tron Sportback electric.
Considering the body style, size and price range of the Audi Q8 E-Tron Sportback, it competes with the following cars:
What Are The Battery-Motor Specs Of Audi Q8 E-Tron Sportback?
The battery and motor specifications of the Audi Q8 E-Tron Sportback are as follows:
AUDI Q8 E-TRON SPORTBACK
BATTERY-MOTOR SPECIFICATIONS
Battery Capacity
95.0kWh
Power
340PS
Torque
664NM
Transmission
Automatic
Range (Claimed)
505km
Charging Time (w/ 7.4kW AC)
9.3 hours
Charging Time (w/ 50kW DC)
31 minutes
Mileage
5.32kmpu
What Is The Mileage Or Fuel Efficiency Of Audi Q8 E-Tron Sportback?
The Audi Q8 E-Tron Sportback has a mileage of 5.32kmpu. This means that Audi Q8 E-Tron Sportback will cover 5.32km for each unit or kWh of electricity.
The long weekend around Christmas has thrown traffic out of control in many parts of India, especially for those heading to hill stations in Himachal Pradesh or Maharashtra. Motorists and holidayers who took the Mumbai-Pune Expressway over the weekend faced long traffic jams. The massive traffic jam on the Mumbai Pune Expressway took 36 hours to be cleared, leaving thousands of vehicles stuck on the highway near Lonavala and Khandala.
By: HT Auto Desk | Updated on: 25 Dec 2023, 18:14 PM
Due to the weekend and Christmas holidays, there was a huge traffic jam on the Mumbai-Pune Expressway at Khandala Ghat, while broken-down vehicles made the situation worse. (HT_PRINT)
For many people who took the Mumbai-Pune Expressway to reach their destinations during the weekend around Christmas, it became a nightmare. Many people had to wait more than three hours to get out of the jam after being stuck in traffic congestion. At some stretches, the traffic jam extended up to 10 kilometres. Several cars broke down on the Mumbai-Pune Expressway, worsening the traffic situation there. Videos of cars standing at the roadside on the Mumbai Pune Expressway with their bonnets open have gone viral on social media platforms.
Breakdowns on the road can be extremely stressful for vehicle owners. Here are some common reasons that play key roles behind a car breaking down and tips on how to avoid such a condition.
Dead or faulty battery
One of the most common causes of vehicle breakdown is a dead or faulty battery, which makes it difficult for a driver to start a car’s engine, eventually leaving him or her stuck. It is recommended to get the battery checked by a technician every three years and replace it if required. A few warning signs of a faulty car battery are dim lights and slow-functioning power windows.
Faulty alternator
An alternator is highly important as it recharges a car’s battery using engine power. Additionally, the alternator also provides power to the car’s electrical components. A faulty alternator means the battery will not be charged properly and there will be stress on other electrical components as well. Hence, get the alternator checked periodically by a technician and fix if there are any issues. Keep an eye out for the car’s ignition warning light and high engine temperature alert. These are signs when the belt that drives the alternator is broken.
Malfunctioning engine
An engine can be dubbed as the heart of a car. The engine works in unison with many critical components and faults in any of them can result in a breakdown. Some common issues related to a car engine failure include a failing oil pump, aged spark plugs, debris and oil deposits, poor lubrication, inadequate fuel and air compression, blocked engine radiators, leaking engine coolant, damaged oxygen sensors prolonged engine detonation etc. It is imperative to get the engine checked by a trained technician frequently and fix any issue if detected. Also, make sure to change engine oil and engine coolant periodically as required and prescribed by the OEM.
Damaged clutch wire
Manual cars rely on a clutch for running and shifting gears. In case of damage to the clutch, the vehicle’s overall performance is impacted negatively. If the clutch plate is burnt or the clutch wire is broken, the car stops moving. If you see, hear or feel signs like a grinding sound while changing gears, the clutch pedal comes at a higher position than its usual resting position, unusual feeling while the clutch pedal is pressed, there is a potential issue with the clutch and it needs to be fixed immediately.
Electrical issues
Modern cars come loaded with a wide range of advanced features, which make it hard to detect electrical problems. It is difficult to fix such an issue in the middle of the rod. But, an electrical short circuit can drain the car’s battery and leave the vehicle stranded. Hence, if you feel any issues with any of the car’s electrical systems like dimming lights or issues with power windows or other components, get the car checked by a technician. Installation of aftermarket electrical components such as additional lights or other devices can also put stress on the entire electrical system and eventually on the battery as well. Also, avoid installing unnecessary lights or fancy gadgets as that puts pressure on the battery draining its charge.
Mercedes-Benz has stated that it will reveal a number of digital innovations at the CES 2024 in Las Vegas next month. Slated to take place between 9th and 13th January 2024. The German luxury car manufacturer has revealed that it will showcase a camouflaged prototype of the pure electric G-Class and its new Artificial Intelligence (AI) powered iteration of MBUX virtual assistant.
By: HT Auto Desk | Updated on: 25 Dec 2023, 16:48 PM
Mercedes-Benz is gearing up to show a camouflaged prototype of the pure electric G-Class and AI-powered assistant, while the Concept CLA will make its North American debut.
Consumer Electronics Show or CES has been witnessing an increasing penetration of automotive technologies with a rising number of automobile manufacturers every year and the 2024 edition of the annual event is not going to be any different. Honda has already teased an electric vehicle that will break cover at the CES 2024. Mercedes-Benz has also said that it will showcase its updated AI-powered MBUX virtual assistant that will offer a more human-like interaction opportunity with the car.
Mercedes-Benz has said the new MBUX virtual assistant takes the ‘Hey Mercedes’ voice assistant into a whole new visual dimension using high-resolution game-engine graphics developed by Unity Technologies. This updated MBUX system will debut in Mercedes-Benz cars in 2024.
While the AI-fuelled updated version of MBUX will be a key attraction from Mercedes-Benz at CES 2024, the carmaker will also showcase a camouflaged prototype of the pure electric G-Class that is among the much-awaited Mercedes-Benz electric vehicles. Also, the automaker will showcase the Concept CLA electric sedan with a coupe design promising more than 750-kilometre range. With an appearance at this event, the Mercedes-Benz Concept CLA will make its North American debut.
The Concept CLA four-door sedan previews the new entry-level vehicles from the luxury car marquee, which will comprise both internal combustion engine (ICE) propelled models as well as electric vehicles. Meanwhile, Mercedes-Benz India is gearing up to launch its GLS facelift in the country on 8th January 2024, which made its global debut earlier this year.
This article will provide you with the information about the battery-motor specs like power, torque, battery capacity, driving range and mileage details of the Audi Q8 E-Tron electric .
Considering the body style, size and price range of the Audi Q8 E-Tron, it competes with the following cars:
What Are The Battery-Motor Specs Of Audi Q8 E-Tron?
The battery and motor specifications of the Audi Q8 E-Tron are as follows:
AUDI Q8 E-TRON
BATTERY-MOTOR SPECIFICATIONS
Battery Capacity
89.0kWh
Power
340PS
Torque
664Nm
Transmission
Automatic
Range (Claimed)
582km
Charging Time (w/ 7.4kW AC)
11.5 hours
Charging Time (w/ 50kW DC)
28 minutes
Mileage
6.54kmpu
What Is The Mileage Or Fuel Efficiency Of Audi Q8 E-Tron?
The Audi Q8 E-Tron has a mileage of 6.54kmpu. This means that Audi Q8 E-Tron will cover 6.54km for each unit or kWh of electricity.
Read more about how you can get the best mileage or fuel efficiency from your car:
Solid State batteries are the future, and here’s why the tech has the potential to be a game changer.
Published On Dec 25, 2023 09:00:00 AM
Toyota FT-Se Concept used for representation only.
Compact solid state batteries will allow for smaller and more compact super EVs.
If electric cars have to deliver the future we all expect them to, there will need to be several advances made in the coming years. The first, of course, involves the greening of battery components; specifically the mining and production of Lithium, which releases around half a dozen tonnes of CO2. Up next is safety – thermal runaway – that’s still a huge problem in hot countries like ours. And finally there’s performance, packaging and cost, advances we all expect electric cars to make in the coming years.
EVs with Solid state batteries could have up to 1,400km range
Lexus FT-Se could come with an SSB when launched
Toyota holds maximum SSB patents
What’s fascinating is that all three issues can potentially be resolved, partially at least, if solid state battery (SSB) technology rolls over the horizon in the coming years. Expected to be mass manufactured and adopted somewhere between 2027 and the end of the decade, SSBs are both currently leaden with potential, and at the same time fraught with technological hurdles.
Toyota engineers say solid state batteries will go from 150mm for normal Lithium ion battries to around 100mm for solid state units, at least initially.
Solid state batteries: what’s different?
But what exactly is an SSB? It’s actually quite simple. Lithium-ion batteries we use in cars use a liquid electrolyte to help transfer electrons from one side of the battery to the other. Remember electrolysis? Yeah, something like that. And since the electrolyte is in liquid form, this makes the battery large, heavy and sensitive to thermal runaway. This is why, in comparison to a conventional lithium-ion battery, SSB technology has the potential to increase energy density, reduce charge time and make it more stable when it comes to thermal runaway.
Solid state batteries, however, are expensive, and currently cost up to three times more pound for pound. But, they make up for it as they’re capable of holding three times the charge and delivering thrice the range. How far will EVs with solid state batteries be able to go? Toyota says that by 2027, its EVs will be able to travel around 1,400km on a single charge. And unlike today – because of better thermal management – solid state batteries won’t have to stick to the 80 percent limit when it comes to DC fast charging.
Solid state batteries are currently suffering from the problem of micro cracks, and these are proving to be difficult to overcome in the short term.
Solid state batteries: hurdles and feasibility
So much for the potential. However, myriad hurdles exist. For one, several battery makers around the world are struggling to overcome the problems of cracks forming in the solid separator. Some battery makers are suffering lower than expected energy densities (measured in Wh/Kg), and then to make these new batteries viable, costs need to be reduced significantly. Also part of the equation are ever-improving conventional Lithium-ion batteries.
Still, progress has been made – if slowly – especially in Japan, Korea and China where multiple companies are currently moving into the production feasibility phase. Also on the cards, and often touted as a solution, are sodium-ion batteries. This type could remove the difficult to mine Lithium from the equation, however, they don’t currently have the density required to be used in cars, and are only thought to be suitable for use in static applications where weight and size aren’t issues.
Another way we could see faster adoption of solid state tech is if companies like Toyota introduce them in hybrids first. This would potentially resolve some of the problems, and once the technology is more widespread, would serve only to accelerate the production and use of large capacity units.
Lithium will continue to be a much sought after resource. Other types of battries will come eventually, but they are a long way off, especially for cars.
Solid state batteries: advantages
Apart from its fundamental strengths, solid state batteries will also offer advances in other areas, many not conventionally associated with the battery. The most important one would probably be that SSBs are much flatter in general, which means they will be great for packaging. How much of a reduction in size are we talking about? Toyota says the size will go down from roughly 150mm today to approximately 100mm eventually, and that’s huge in packaging terms. So SSBs will allow engineers to build lower slung, more aerodynamically efficient cars and with their lighter weight, it would also make the design of two-door sportscars more feasible.
Most sporting EVs today have four doors for a reason, and that reason, of course, is the size of the battery and its weight. You can bet your last Yen that Lexus’ sporty FT-Se, shown at the Tokyo Salon earlier this year, will use an SSB. How else can it achieve that roofline?
Solid state batteries: which companies?
So who’s ahead in the race to bring solid state batteries to the market? Surprisingly, it’s Toyota, as it holds the most patents on the tech. What’s just as important is that Toyota has recently even tied up with Idemitsu for the manufacture of SSBs. So is Toyota’s solid state battery all but ready? Panasonic, Samsung and LG, the other big Japanese and Korean battery makers are also close on its heels, with some holding onto advantages in specific areas.
Also equally important are Chinese battery giants CATL and BYD , who have been ‘showing’ plenty of progress in recent years, especially in their projections. Don’t write off these state sponsored world leaders in battery production, remember that they can work their way around most patents anyway.
Solid state batteries will be game changers when they arrive. Their compact proportions, high performance and ability to blend into any design will fundamentally change how we engineer and manufacture cars. Imagine, when they arrive on the scene en masse, born EV platforms will have to evolve or be rendered outdated. Keep your eye on this potentially disruptive emerging technology, it has the potential to fundamentally change the game.
Electric two-wheeler maker e-Sprinto has clocked the sale of over 8,000 electric scooters since the company commenced operations. The manufacturer managed the milestone in 21 months, having begun sales in March 2022. With a few more days to end the calendar year, the company aims to close 2023 with sales crossing the 10,000 mark.
By: HT Auto Desk | Updated on: 24 Dec 2023, 21:33 PM
e-Sprinto sold over 5,500 electric scooters between April and June this year, and has made it to 8,000 units with a few days left in 2023
e-Sprinto was aggressive with its launches and network expansion only this year, which gave the manufacturer a significant push in volumes. The manufacturer says it has achieved a major presence in Tier I cities like Kolkata, Bengaluru, Chennai and Delhi-NCR.
“We are thrilled to reach the milestone of 8000 e-Sprinto electric scooters sold, a testament to our commitment to innovation and customer satisfaction. With our eyes set on the future, we aim to achieve the ambitious target of 10,000 units sold by 2024,” said Atul Gupta, Co-Founder & Director – e-Sprinto.
e-Sprinto further revealed that it has achieved a 50 per cent increase in revenue year-on-year, while the company is also experiencing a 50 per cent month-on-month growth in revenue. The manufacturer sells the e-Sprinto LS, Rapo and Roamy in the low-speed and e-Sprinto HS in the high-speed category. The company launched the Amery e-scooter earlier this year.
This article will provide you with the information about the battery-motor specs like power, torque, battery capacity, driving range and mileage details of the Tata Nexon EV electric .
Considering the body style, size and price range of the Tata Nexon EV, it competes with the following cars:
What Are The Battery-Motor Specs Of Tata Nexon EV?
The battery and motor specifications of the Tata Nexon EV are as follows:
TATA NEXON EV
BATTERY-MOTOR SPECIFICATIONS
Battery Capacity
40.5kWh
Power
145PS
Torque
215Nm
Transmission
Automatic
Range (Claimed)
465km
Charging Time (w/ 7.4kW AC)
6 hours
Charging Time (w/ 50kW DC)
56 minutes
Mileage
11.48kmpu
What Is The Mileage Or Fuel Efficiency Of Tata Nexon EV?
The Tata Nexon EV has a mileage of 11.48kmpu. This means that Tata Nexon EV will cover 11.48km for each unit or kWh of electricity.
Read more about how you can get the best mileage or fuel efficiency from your car:
The Mahindra Thar 5-door is one of the most eagerly awaited offerings from the automaker’s stable. The Thar 5-door has been spotted testing on multiple occasions and the latlatest spy shots that emerged online remind you that the model is closer to launch. The latest images show a camouflaged test mule of the lifestyle SUV, albeit wearing production-ready alloy wheels.
By: HT Auto Desk | Updated on: 24 Dec 2023, 10:48 AM
The Mahindra Thar 5 door is slated to arrive in 2024 and will be a lifestyle vehicle positioned above the ₹15 lakh mark (Instagram/cars_universe_yt)
The difference in the alloy wheels is notable with Mahindra moving away from the multi-spoke units on the current Thar 3-door to what appears to be a diamond-cut design. The test unit also appears to come with LED headlamps with circular LED DRLs, which further hint at the model being nearly ready for production.
The new Thar 5-door will be a more practical offering over the 3-door model while retaining the off-road capability. Previous spy shots have revealed features like the dashboard and seats, especially with a usable second row. It will also get features like an electric sunroof, a larger infotainment system with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, a centre armrest between the front seats, height adjustable seatbelts and AC vents for the rear passengers. It will also get a much larger boot space, making it far more practical regarding day-to-day driving.
The upcoming Mahindra Thar 5-door will also sport a longer wheelbase to support all the changes. Power is expected to come from the familiar 2.2-litre diesel and 2.0-litre turbo petrol engines, which could be tuned differently. Expect to see both manual and automatic transmission choices at the time of launch, while the model is also expected to arrive with 4×4. Mahindra could bring the Thar 5-door with just rear-wheel drive for a lower starting price. The SUV will take on the Maruti Suzuki Jimny and upcoming Force Gurkha 5-door when it arrives next year.
Alternatively, you can look at X3 M40i, which gets the same motor as M340i, but has the added practicality of an SUV.
Published On Dec 24, 2023 09:00:00 AM
I have a Honda Amaze right now and I’m in the market for a new car. My top contenders are BMW 330Li, M340i, Mercedes GLA 35 AMG and Mercedes GLC 300. Recently, I drove an M340i and it was fun. I quite liked the GLA 35 too but it wasn’t as engaging as the BMW. I am yet to test drive the other two. My confusion is, whether the M340i is a compromise in terms of practicality in India, as I do like to go on long road trips. Can you really make out the difference between 330Li and M340i in the real world?
Rajat Kumar Gupta, via email
Autocar India says: The BMW 330Li is far more comfort-oriented with a softer suspension setup, which makes it far more suited to our road conditions than an M340i. It is engaging to drive too and should satiate your performance needs, however, there’s no doubt that the M340i’s performance feels explosive in comparison. If you really want something that is out-and-out sporty, and don’t mind sacrificing ride comfort, go for the X3 M40i which shares its powertrain with the M340i, and at the same time, being an SUV, it will be more practical for our roads, particularly on your long road trips.
India is one of the fastest-growing electric vehicle markets in the world. Over the last few years, both legacy players and EV startups have been drastically transforming the landscape of the Indian EV industry. Electric two-wheelers dominate the Indian EV market, but car manufacturers too are introducing interesting products. While homegrown car manufacturers have been launching new electric cars in the country, foreign brands are also bringing their respective products into the segment.
By: HT Auto Desk | Updated on: 23 Dec 2023, 20:42 PM
From mass-market to luxury, the year 2023 witnessed launch of several electric cars across price-segments, with SUVs dominating the chart.
In 2023, several carmakers, in both mass-market and luxury segments have launched some spectacular electric cars across different pricing slabs. Interestingly, like the fossil-fuel-propelled passenger vehicle market, the Indian electric car market is witnessing the rise of SUVs. In 2023, the majority of the electric cars launched in the country were SUVs.
Here is a comprehensive list of the electric cars that were launched in India in 2023.
MG Comet EV
MG Comet EV is the most affordable electric car in India. This small boxy hatchback looks tiny compared to other models in the fray, but a perfect machine for in and around-city commuting. MG Comet EV was launched in 2023 at an introductory starting price of ₹7.98 lakh (ex-showroom). The electric hatchback threw a tough challenge to the Tata Tiago EV, the erstwhile most affordable electric car in India with its pricing. Design-wise, the EV is eye-catching on the exterior, while inside the cabin it looks simple yet very much urban at the same time. The Comet EV promises a 230 km range on a single charge.
Tata Nexon EV facelift
One of the most noteworthy car launches in India in 2023 was the arrival of the Nexon EV facelift. Tata Nexon EV is the country’s bestselling electric car and the homegrown automaker simply ramped up the appeal of the electric compact SUV with the launch of the Nexon facelift, which incorporates a wide range of design and feature updates. The Nexon EV facelift comes available at a starting price of ₹14.74 lakh (ex-showroom), and it promises a 465-kilometre range on a single charge, while it can accelerate to 0-100 kmph in 8.9 seconds. It comes with V2V and V2L technologies.
Powering the electric SUV is a 66.4 kWh battery pack paired with dual electric motors.
BMW iX1
BMW launched the electric avatar of the X1 SUV, christened as iX1 in India in 2023. The luxury EV was launched in the country at a price tag of ₹66.90 lakh (ex-showroom). BMW iX1 is the German brand’s fourth fully electric vehicle and is sold in India via the CBU route. Powering the electric SUV is a 66.4 kWh battery pack paired with dual electric motors. The electric propulsion system churns out 309 bhp peak power and 494 Nm of maximum torque. The EV promises up to 440-kilometre range on a single charge. It can reach 0-100 kmph in 5.6 seconds and can achieve a top speed of 180 kmph.
BMW i7
BMW i7 is an all-electric sedan that was launched in India in 2023 at a price tag of ₹2.50 crore (ex-showroom). The BMW i7 M70 xDrive is the brand’s first M-division electric car that was launched in India in 2023. Powering this luxury electric sedan is a 101.7 kWh battery pack that is paired with dual electric motors and generates up to a 560-kilometre range on a single charge. The electric propulsion system churns out 657 bhp peak power and 1,100 Nm maximum torque. This electric sedan can sprint to 100 kmph from a standstill position in just 3.7 seconds at a top speed of 250 kmph.
Mahindra XUV400
Mahindra XUV400 is the homegrown automaker’s first-ever electric SUV launched in India in 2023. The Mahindra XUV400 comes positioned in compact SUV segment and it competes with rivals like the Tata Nexon EV. Launched at ₹15.99 lakh (ex-showroom), the Mahindra XUV400 is available in two different battery options and promises up to 456-kilometre range on a single charge. Available in EC and EL, the Mahindra electric SUV’s price goes up to ₹18.99 lakh (ex-showroom).
Citroen eC3
Despite being a new entrant in the Indian passenger vehicle market, French auto giant Citroen was quick to launch an electric car in the form of eC3. The electric SUV comes priced from ₹11.50 lakh (ex-showroom) and it promises a range of 320 kilometres on a single charge, which is also the highest in its segment. Available in four different variants, the Citroen eC3 EV is powered by a 29.2 kWh battery pack that promises 320 kilometres range on a single charge. The electric SUV promises a top speed of 107 kmph.
Volvo C40 Recharge
Volvo C40 Recharge is the second electric car in India from the Swedish luxury car manufacturer after the XC40 Recharge. The electric car was launched at ₹61.25 lakh (ex-showroom). The EV competes with rivals such as Kia EV6 and Hyundai Ioniq 5. The EV gets power from a 78 kWh battery pack paired with dual electric motors. The EV churns out 402 bhp peak power and 660 Nm of maximum torque. The EV is capable of running at a top speed of 180 kmph and can sprint to 100 kmph from a standstill position in 4.7 seconds.
Hyundai Ioniq 5
Hyundai Ioniq 5 is the second electric car from the South Korean auto giant in the Indian market. The Hyundai Ioniq 5 EV has been launched in the country at ₹44.95 lakh (ex-showroom). The EV comes competing against the Kia EV6 but is more affordable than the rebadged sibling. Powering the Hyundai Ioniq 5 is a 72.6 kWh battery pack, that promises a 631 kilometre range on a single charge. It gets a rear-wheel drivetrain churning out 214 bhp peak power and 350 Nm of maximum torque. The EV claims come with a fast charging technology that charges the battery from 10 to 80 per cent in just 18 minutes.
Audi Q8 e-tron and Sportback e-tron
Audi launched the Q8 e-tron and Sportback e-tron in India in middle of 2023. The SUV and the Sportback were launched together, priced at ₹1.14 crore and ₹1.18 core (ex-showroom). The Q8 e-tron essentially came as a facelifted iteration of the erstwhile e-tron. Both the SUV and the Sportback were launched in two trims – 50 and 55, with range of up to 600 kilometres on a single charge. Powering the 50 variant is a 71 kWh battery pack, while the 55 onbe gets a larger 114 kWh battery pack. The SUV has a maximum claimed range of 491 kilometres and 582 kilometres for the 50 and 55 variants, respectively, while the Sportback has a maximum range of 505 kilometres and 600 kilometres for the 50 and 55 variants, respectively.
Mercedes-Benz EQB
Mercedes-Benz India launched the EQB 350 4Matic electric SUV in India in 2023, at a starting price of ₹77.50 lakh (ex-showroom). The luxury electric SUV was launched in the country replacing the previous EQB 300 4Matic that was launched in December 2022. The EQB is powered by a 66.5 kWh battery pack. The electric propulsion system onboard the SUV promises 288 bhp peak power and 520 Nm of maximum torque. These specifications are significant enhancements from the EQB 300 4Matic.
Mercedes-Benz EQE
Mercedes-Benz EQE electric SUV was launched in India in 2023 after the EQS and EQB, joining the lineup as the brand’s third EV in the country. The Mercedes-Benz EQE electric SUV was launched here at ₹1.39 crore (ex-showroom). It competes with rivals like Audi Q8 e-tron and BMW iX1 electric SUVs. Mercedes-Benz EQE 500 4Matic SUV comes promising 550 kilometres range on a single charge. The SUV gets power from a 90.56 kWh battery pack that is paired with dual motors. The SUV can accelerate from 0-100 kmph in 4.9 seconds at a top speed of 210 kmph.
Billionaire car collector Yohan Poonawalla has one of the most exotic car collections in the country and the businessman has now added the Bentley Flying Spur W12 Speed to his garage. The Flying Spur W12 Speed is one of the most opulent luxury cars sold in India and retails from ₹7 crore (ex-showroom) onwards before one can tick on the options.
By: HT Auto Desk | Updated on: 23 Dec 2023, 18:51 PM
The Bentley Flying Spur W12 Speed is one of the most illustrious cars in Yohan Poonawalla’s collection that’s already filled with some of the exotic machines from across the world
The Bentley Flying Spur W12 Speed packs luxury and power in a stellar package. The British limousine uses a 6.0-litre W12 turbocharged engine under the bonnet that develops 626 bhp and 900 Nm of peak torque. The motor is paired with a ZF 8-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission and the luxury car can sprint from 0-100 kmph in just 3.8 seconds.
Yohan Poonawalla’s car collection is said to be valued at well over ₹100 crore and is a mix of old and new cars. Chairman and Managing Director of the Poonawalla Engineering Group, Poonawalla has an affinity towards Rolls-Royce, Bentley and Ferrari cars. He owns cars like the Ferrari 488 Pista Spyder, F12 Berlinetta, 488 Aperta, Portofino and more. He also owns a Lamborghini Gallardo, Land Rover Defender, Bentley Bentayga, Rolls-Royce Phantom VII and more.
Concerning his classic car collection, the industrialist has added several beauties over the years. It started with a 1951 Chevrolet gifted to him in the 1990s, followed by the Rolls-Royce Phantom III, a 1933 Rolls-Royce Phantom II, a 1964 Lincoln Continental 4-door Convertible, a 1927 Rolls-Royce 20 HP Tourer by Barker & Co, a 1979 Rolls Royce Phantom VI Limousine, a Mysore Bentley Mark VI 4-Light Touring Saloon by Hooper & Co. and more. All of his cars have strong legacies associated with them.
Yohan Poonawalla was awarded the “Collector of the Year 2023″ title at the Geneva International Motor Show in Qatar earlier this year.
By: HT Auto Desk | Updated on: 22 Dec 2023, 19:22 PM
Pollution in Delhi NCR is increasing once again because of this the Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP) has rolled out a new order that bans vehicles up to BS-3 petrol and BS-4 diesel four-wheelers. The air quality of Delhi NCR falls under the ‘Severe’ category which essentially means an AQI ranging between 4O1-45O. As of now, there is no timeline stated for the ban to be lifted.
Ban on BS3 petrol and BS4 diesel cars has been implemented once again because of increasing AQI. (Photo by Sanchit Khanna/ Hindustan Times) (Hindustan Times)
The Sub-Committee observed that the AQI of Delhi on 22nd December witnessed a sharp increase. It stood at 4O9 and the committee says that it is only expected to increase a further 8 owing to the highly unfavourable meteorological and climatic conditions reported/ predicted by IMD/ IITM.
The AQI categorises scores from zero to 500, with values between zero and 50 considered “good,” 51 to 100 labelled as “satisfactory”, 101 to 200 as “moderate”, 201 to 300 as “poor”, 301 to 400 as “very poor” and 401 to 500 as “severe”.
Apart from banning cars, GRAP has ordered a strict ban on construction and demolition activities in the entire NCR region. However, few activities are expected such as projects for railway services, airports, inter-state bus terminals, hospital/health care and metros. Projects and activities related to national security, public projects such as sanitation, highways, roads, flyovers etc. are also exempted.
Earlier, the Delhi government had planned to introduce the Odd-Even rule after Diwali when pollution spiked in the city. However, it postponed the plans after the Supreme Court termed the move as mere optics without much effect on pollution levels.
India’s automobile industry is constantly evolving. People’s demands keep changing and manufacturers try to ensure that they are fulfilling the demands. The latest push in the industry has come in the form of safe vehicles. People are now well aware of the safety rating of the vehicles. What has helped in pushing safe vehicles is Global NCAP’s #safercarsforindia initiative. As part of this campaign, every year several cars that are being sold in India are crash-tested. This year also several cars were crash-tested and here are five cars that passed GNCAP tests with flying colours in 2023.
By: HT Auto Desk | Updated on: 22 Dec 2023, 17:26 PM
Tata Harrier and Safari SUVs have secured five star rating at the Global NCAP crash tests and Bharat NCAP becoming two of the safest cars in India.
Tata Safari and Harrier
Tata Motors was the first automobile manufacturer that really started the movement about safe cars in India with the Nexon. However, they took a long time to crash-test the Harrier and Safari. With the facelifts, the manufacturer finally sent the SUVs to Global NCAP for a crash test and they scored the highest rating in the crash test. Not only this, the Harrier and the Safari are also the first vehicles to be tested by Bharat NCAP. Both the SUVs are based on Land Rover’s Omegarc platform so it makes sense that both SUVs also share the same safety rating and features.
Hyundai Verna
Well, this came as a surprise to everyone. Hyundai Verna scored 5 stars in the Global NCAP crash test. It is the first made-in-India car from Hyundai to achieve five stars in the crash test. The new generation of Verna was launched in the Indian market this year and has been doing decent in terms of sales. The voluntary test for the Hyundai Verna was one of the last tests to be done by Global NCAP for India.
Volkswagen Virtus and Skoda Slavia also scored 5 stars in the Global NCAP crash test. Both sedans come from the manufacturer’s India 2.0 strategy and are based on MQB-A0-IN. This is the same platform that is being used on the Volkswagen Taigun and Skoda Kushaq which also scored 5 stars in a crash test.
All four models will be brought in as niche imports or as CKDs.
The duo of Volkswagen and Skoda have had a packed couple of years with its India 2.0 launches, but what’s next for 2024? Well, both brands will be relying on a bunch of niche imports to further populate their respective portfolios over the next 12 months. Additionally, there could be mid-lifecycle updates and more special editions on models like the Kushaq, Slavia, Taigun and Virtus. Let’s take a closer look at the upcoming launches from Skoda and Volkswagen in 2024.
Skoda Superb
Expected price: Rs 50 lakh Launch: Early 2024
Skoda will reintroduce the previous-gen Superb sedan in our market in limited numbers, after it was discontinued due to the BS6.2 implementation. The company will introduce it with an updated 190hp, 2.0-litre TSI turbo-petrol engine, mated to a sole 7-speed DSG gearbox. However, the Superb will not be locally assembled in India anymore, but will be imported as a CBU (completely built-up unit). The Czech brand will reintroduce it only in top-spec L&K trim with new features like ADAS that include lane-keeping assist and adaptive cruise control, a 360-degree camera, a new infotainment system, adaptive chassis control tech, an active tyre pressure monitoring system and nine airbags.
However, this will only be a stop-gap measure, as last month, Skoda globally unveiled the fourth-gen Superb with evolutionary styling, an all-new interior and an updated powertrain line-up, which even includes a plug-in hybrid. Although there’s no official word on it, we expect the new-gen Superb to also make it to India at some point in the future.
Skoda Enyaq iV
Expected price: Rs 55 lakh Launch: Mid-2024
The Enyaq iV will be Skoda’s first all-electric offering in India and it’ll be brought in as a full import. This five-seater crossover is only slightly smaller than Skoda’s flagship three-row Kodiaq SUV. Skoda has been testing the top-spec ‘80x’ version in India, which gets a 77kWh battery powering two electric motors – one on each axle giving it all-wheel-drive capability – producing a total of 265hp. Also, the Enyaq iV has a healthy claimed range of over 500km and an equally impressive 0-100kph acceleration time of 6.9 seconds. It remains to be seen whether Skoda offers lower-spec, two-wheel-drive variants of the Enyaq iV for a lower starting price point.
New Skoda Kodiaq
Expected price: Rs 50 lakh Launch: Late 2024
The second-gen Kodiaq is the brand’s first production car to be styled with elements from the ‘Modern Solid’ philosophy previewed by last year’s Vision 7S concept, which gives it a more overtly rugged and utilitarian look than its predecessor. It’s also slightly longer than its predecessor, which means there’s more space in the third row and boot. The interior, meanwhile, is shared with the latest-gen Superb, and as such looks premium and well-equipped with a fine mix of physical and touch controls.
Under the hood, the new Kodiaq is powered by 2.0-litre petrol and diesel engines as well as a plug-in hybrid and mild-hybrid 1.5-litre petrol engines; the diesel-automatic solely gets the option of a 4×4 system. Skoda will get the new Kodiaq to India towards the end of 2024, although there’s no confirmation on what powertrain configuration it will get, or if it will be a CKD (completely knocked-down) unit as the existing Kodiaq or an import. The Kodiaq currently continues to be on sale in India in its first-generation guise with a petrol engine.
Volkswagen ID.4
Expected Price: Rs 55 lakh Launch: Mid-2024
A sister model to the Skoda Enyaq iV, Volkswagen’s first all-electric model for India will also be a niche import. The ID.4 is based on VW’s MEB electric platform. India will likely get the high-performance ID.4 GTX model that uses one electric motor at the front axle and one at the rear. Combined, it produces 299hp and 460Nm of torque. The ID 4 GTX houses a 77kWh battery that has a claimed range of up to 480km on a single charge. This high-performance model uses one electric motor at the front axle and one at the rear. Combined, it produces 299hp and 460Nm of torque. Volkswagen has been testing the ID 4 in India for nearly two years now. However, its launch is yet to be greenlit by Volkswagen’s global headquarters. It will be brought in with Volkswagen’s India 3.0 plan, which is all about electric mobility and will cover both completely built units (CBUs) as well as locally built EVs.
This article will provide you with the information about the battery-motor specs like power, torque, battery capacity, driving range and mileage details of the BMW iX1 electric .
Considering the body style, size and price range of the BMW iX1, it competes with the following cars:
Volvo XC40 Recharge
BMW i4
What Are The Battery-Motor Specs Of BMW iX1?
The battery and motor specifications of the BMW iX1 are as follows:
BMW iX1
BATTERY-MOTOR SPECIFICATIONS
Battery Capacity
64.7Kwh
Power
313PS
Torque
494NM
Transmission
Automatic
Range (Claimed)
440KM
Charging Time (w/ 7.4kW AC)
6.5 hours
Charging Time (w/ 50kW DC)
29 minutes
Mileage
6.80
What Is The Mileage Or Fuel Efficiency Of BMW iX1?
The BMW iX1 has a mileage of kmpu. This means that BMW iX1 will cover km for each unit or kWh of electricity.
Read more about how you can get the best mileage or fuel efficiency from your car:
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