By: HT Auto Desk | Updated on: 31 Dec 2023, 19:42 PM
First launch of the year, the Kawasaki Ninja ZX-6R has received a host of upgrades since the last time this model was on sale in India.
The 2024 Kawasaki Ninja ZX-6R makes a comeback to the Indian market with new styling and the same exciting 636 motor
India Kawasaki Motor is all set to introduce the Ninja ZX-6R full-faired motorcycle in the country tomorrow, January 1, 2024. The first launch of the year, the Kawasaki Ninja ZX-6R was showcased at India Bike Week 2023 earlier this month and has received a host of upgrades since the last time this model was on sale in India.
The Kawasaki Ninja ZX-6R has seen plenty of upgrades internationally over the years. The MY2024 version will arrive in India with a revised bodywork that’s identical to the one found in the recently launched Ninja ZX-4R. The split LED headlamps are sharper and the bike comes with clip-on handlebars for a more dedicated riding posture. The bike has also been updated with a TFT screen that now gets Bluetooth connectivity.
Kawasaki ZX-6R uses a 636 cc, liquid-cooled, in-line four-cylinder engine tuned for 128 bhp and 69 Nm of peak torque
Power continues to come from the 636 cc inline-four engine engine that is now Euro5 compliant. The motor has been tuned to produce 128 bhp and 69 Nm of peak torque and is paired with a 6-speed gearbox with a quickshifter. Other mechanicals have been carried over including the Showa USD front forks and a monoshock at the rear. Braking performance comes from dual 310 mm discs at the front and a single 220 mm disc at the rear. The bike will come shod with 17-inch alloy wheels with Pirelli Diablo Rosso 4 tyres.
The Kawasaki Ninja ZX-6R will take on the Aprilia RS 660 upon arrival and prices should be around ₹12 lakh (ex-showroom). The motorcycle makes for a fantastic bridge between the Ninja 400 and the top-spec Ninja ZX-10RR, keeping the track enthusiasts entertained. The bike is expected to soon face the heat from the Yamaha R7, also slated for arrival in 2024 in India.
We’ve been driving the Maruti Suzuki Jimny in the city, on the highway and even over some off-road sections. Here’s our list of good bits and bad bits.
By: HT Auto Desk | Updated on: 30 Dec 2023, 19:04 PM
From Ather to Ola and everything in between, there is something from every major EV player coming up in 2024.
From Ather bringing its family e-scooter to Honda introducing its maiden electric scooter, both new and traditional OEMs will have something to offer in 2024
2023 was a particularly challenging year for the electric two-wheeler segment. While demand soared on one end, manufacturers also faced challenges with the revision of the FAME II subsidy hiking prices across the EV space. Nevertheless, the demand continues to be on the rise for electric two-wheelers and manufacturers – new and traditional alike – are gearing up to introduce many new models in the coming year.
With electric two-wheeler sales exceeding the 8.3 lakh mark in 2023, the number is only expected to increase further in 2024. So if you are looking to bring a new electric scooter or motorcycle home next year, this should be the list to watch out for. From Ather to Ola and everything in between, there is something for everyone in this space. Here are the top 10 electric two-wheeler launches lined up in 2024.
The Ather 450X Apex will be a limited-run model with cosmetic and performance upgrades. It will arrive on January 6, 2023
1. Ather 450 Apex
Kicking off the new year will be the Ather 450 Apex. The new electric scooter arrives on January 6 and will be a new limited-run model line based on the 450X. The teaser images promise the transparent side panels from the 450X Series 1 limited edition, as well as a boost in performance. Expect to see visual upgrades as well when the 450 Apex arrives next month, albeit in limited numbers.
The Ampere NXG is expected to resemble the concept closely and will be the brand’s new flagship e-scooter
2. Ampere NXG
Ampere Electric Mobility, the EV arm of Greaves Cotton, previewed the NXG electric scooter at the 2023 Auto Expo and the model is slated to arrive in 2024. Showcased as a concept, the Ampere NXG is expected to stick close to the concept in shape and form while packing a 7-inch TFT screen, PMS mid-drive electric motor and a host of other features. The Ampere NXG will be the new flagship offering from the company and will take on the Ather 450X, Ola S1 Pro and Simple One presently on sale.
The TVS iQube ST will pack a bigger battery pack and a higher top speed over the iQube S
3. TVS iQube ST
While the TVS iQube is one of the best-selling electric scooters on sale, the much-awaited iQube ST continues to elude the market. The model was even showcased at the 2023 Auto Expo. The TVS iQube ST will be the top-spec variant of the electric scooter and packs a larger 4.56 kWh battery pack with a longer range of 145 km in Eco mode and 110 km in Power mode. The iQube ST also gets a higher top speed of 82 kmph as against 78 kmph on the iQube S. The e-scooter will come with a 950W charger powering the battery from 0-80 per cent in 4 hours and 6 minutes, while the company will also offer a 1,500W charger that’ll shorten the charging time to 2 hours and 30 minutes. The ST variant will be 3 kg heavier and will also get a price bump upon arrival.
The 2024 Bajaj Chetak Premium will come with a bigger battery pack and a new 7-inch touchscreen unit with more connectivity options
4. 2024 Bajaj Chetak Premium
The 2024 Chetak Urbane was launched recently with a subtle refresh and you can expect the more premium Chetak Premium variant to arrive over the next few weeks. According to leaked documents, the 2024 Chetak Premium will carry a larger 3.2 kWh fixed battery promising a longer range of 126 km on a single charge. The electric scooter will also get a new 7-inch touchscreen console that will bring features like turn-by-turn navigation and notification alerts. The top speed will also increase to 73 kmph on the top variant. The 2024 Bajaj Chetak Premium should be more competitively equipped to take on the Ather 450S, Ola S1 Air, Simple Dot One and the like in the segment.
The Ather family electric scooter will be comfier and should be more accessible as well
5. Ather Family Scooter
Also coming from the house of Ather Energy next year will be the family electric scooter. Ather Energy has been testing its new offering and the e-scooter is expected to grace showrooms in 2024. Details are scarce about the new family electric scooter but the model is expected to be more rounded and appealing to a wider audience and will give Ather a stronger product to level up its volume game. The new family e-scooter is also likely to be more affordable than the 450X.
The Honda SC e: concept looks like a 125 cc equivalent electric scooter that could influence the future e-scooters from the manufacturer
6. Honda Electric Scooter & Motorcycle
Making its debut in the electric mobility segment will be Honda Two-Wheelers India with its maiden electric offering. The company has already announced its plans to bring two electric scooters with fixed and swappable batteries respectively. Honda Global also announced recently that an electric motorcycle will be made in India and is slated to arrive in 2024. India will play a major role in Honda’s electric mobility plans going forward, especially in producing mass-market EVs. Honda’s maiden electric scooter should arrive by March 2024.
The production-spec Tork Kratos X will be different from the one revealed at the 2023 Auto Expo and will arrive by mid-2024
7. Tork Kratos X
The Tork Kratos X was first unveiled at the 2023 Auto Expo and was slated to arrive in June 2023. However, the FAME II subsidy revisions threw a spanner in the works of the Pune-based start-up. Tork Motors now plans to bring the Kratos X by mid-2024 and the electric motorcycle will see key changes over the one showcased at the expo. The X will be the flagship offering but will also come with an upgraded motor for better power and torque output. It needs to be seen if the aluminium swingarm, 7-inch TFT screen and winglets will be carried over on the updated version.
Ola Electric is likely to reveal the production-spec e-motorcycles next year that promise segment-leading power and range outputs
8. Ola M1 Electric Motorcycle
Ola Electric announced a foray into the electric motorcycle segment in August this year and we expect to see the first offering from the company arrive towards the end of 2024. Dubbed the M1 electric motorcycle range, the company showcased four concepts – roadster, cruiser, adventure and supersport – and we could see the final production versions arrive next year. Ola did not share any technical details on the upcoming e-motorcycles but promised that the bikes will see the biggest battery pack and motor on any Indian electric two-wheeler. At present, the UltravioletteF77 has the biggest battery pack at 10.5 kWh.
The Matter Aera will finally hit the streets in the first quarter of 2024 and will be the first electric motorcycle in India to get a liquid-cooled motor and battery, and a 4-speed gearbox
9. Matter Aera
Having launched its maiden e-bike earlier this year, Ahmedabad-based Matter will finally begin deliveries of the Aera electric motorcycle next year. The Matter Aera is priced from ₹1.73 lakh to ₹1.83 lakh (ex-showroom) and the reservation window is currently open. The Matter Aera is powered by a 10.5 kW (14 bhp) mid-mounted motor with 520 Nm of torque at the wheel. The e-motorcycle packs a 5 kWh battery pack promising a range of 150 km on a single charge. The Aera will be the first electric motorcycle to get a liquid-cooled motor and battery, and a functional 4-speed gearbox. Deliveries should begin from March 2024 onwards.
The Kinetic Luna will make a comeback in an all-electric avatar with Kinetic Green launching the e-moped sometime next year (In pic: Arun Firodia of the Kinetic Group with the Luna moped)
10. Kinetic Green e-Luna
Making a comeback in an all-electric avatar, Kinetic Green will revive the Luna name for its upcoming electric two-wheeler called the ‘e-Luna.’ The electric moped promises to be as functional as its yester-year ICE version and will pack a host of features as well. The company has not revealed more details about the e-Luna but the model is expected to arrive in the first half of 2024.
The Renault Duster will make its India comeback with the third-generation model in 2025.
The all-new Duster has been revealed internationally by the Dacia brand, sporting a new platform, fresh design and multiple powertrain options. The big news is that Renault will bring it to India in 2025. So, without further ado, here are the most important things to know about the new Renault Duster for India.
1. Renault Duster platform
The new Duster is built on the Renault-Nissan Alliance’s modular CMF-B platform that, globally, also underpins a number of models for both the carmakers, as well as Renault’s sister brand Dacia. This platform is more advanced than the M0 architecture that underpinned the original Duster and it will be localised for production in India. Earlier this year, the Renault-Nissan alliance had announced a fresh investment of Rs 5,300 crore in the Indian market, primarily to launch six new locally produced models between the two brands. These would be based on the CMF-B platform and also on the electrified version of the CMF-A platform.
2. Renault Duster exterior
On the outside, the new Duster looks more squared off, and its muscular flanks and shapely bonnet give it a butch look. The large 18-inch wheels add to its appearance as do the large dose of plastic cladding all around, including on the angular wheel arch design. The headlights with their Y-shaped DRLs merge neatly with the grille for the Dacia version. Expect some differences in the front-end styling of the India-bound Duster that will be sold as a Renault to begin with. A Nissan version will follow later.
Along the sides, there’s a unique contrast panel behind the front wheel arches, while the rear door handles are integrated into the C pillar. At the back, you see attractive Y-shaped full LED tail-lights, cuts and creases on the tailgate, and a sporty roof spoiler.
The new model measures 4.34 metres long, which is about as long as the original Duster. Interestingly, a three-row, seven-seat version of the SUV is also in the works that will debut a little later.
3. Renault Duster interior
On the inside, the rugged theme continues on the Duster’s dashboard, which gets a prominent centre console that is angled towards the driver. The AC vents get the Y-themed styling and there are physical buttons for the climate control.
There’s a lot of new tech now: a 10.1-inch touchscreen takes centre stage, a 7-inch digital instrument panel, a six-speaker audio system with Arkamys 3D sound, a wireless phone charger, cruise control and an electric parking brake. The model that’s been shown abroad doesn’t sport a sunroof though. Charging options include two USB-C ports and a 12V outlet for both the front and rear passengers, and it also gets ADAS features such as auto emergency braking and lane keep assist. We expect Renault to bring the ADAS bundle on the India-bound Duster as well.
4. Renault Duster powertrains
Announced so far are three petrol engine options, two of which are electrified. There’s a strong hybrid – called the Hybrid 140 – that pairs a 94hp, 1.6-litre petrol with a 49hp electric motor and a high-voltage starter generator, and this is likely to be a front runner for India. This engine comes with an automatic gearbox and features regenerative braking and a 1.2kWh battery, enabling purely electric driving for up to 80 percent of the time in the city.
There’s also a new TCe 130 engine, which combines a three-cylinder, 1.2-litre turbo-petrol and a 48V mild-hybrid system that generates a combined 130hp. It comes with a 6-speed manual gearbox and front-wheel drive as standard; all-wheel drive is optional. There is no diesel version announced but some markets will get a petrol-LPG option.
The Duster AWD gets a terrain mode selector that, in auto mode, switches power between the front and rear axles as needed. It gets Snow, Mud/Sand, Off-Road and Eco modes too. Also standard on the AWD is hill-descent control, and off-road screens showing tilt angle, pitch and torque distribution between the axles. Duster AWD gets 217mm of ground clearance with 31-degree approach, 36-degree departure and 24-degree ramp breakover angles.
5. Renault Duster India launch
The Renault Duster will make its India entry only by late 2025. It will go up against a competent field of midsized SUVs, including the Hyundai Creta, Kia Seltos, Volkswagen Taigun, Skoda Kushaq, Maruti Grand Vitara, Toyota Urban Cruiser Hyryder and MG Astor. Expect it to be priced at around the Rs 20 lakh mark, which will put it right in the mix of things. As before, however, the rugged appeal and its brand equity, which is still quite high, could help the Duster make a space for itself in the crowd.
By: Sameer Fayaz Contractor | Updated on: 29 Dec 2023, 17:11 PM
Deliveries of the Odysse Vader began earlier this month after the company received iCAT certification passing all tests.
Nemin Vora – CEO – Odysse EV, revealed that the Vader electric motorcycle deliveries have commenced with over 5,000 bookings already in place
Mumbai-based electric two-wheeler start-up, Odysse EV recently began deliveries of the new Vader electric motorcycle in India and it plans to deliver the existing bookings of 5,000 units over the next six months. Deliveries of the Odysse Vader began earlier this month after the company received iCAT certification passing all tests. The motorcycle was launched in March this year at a price tag of ₹1.30 lakh (ex-showroom, pre-FAME subsidy revision).
The Odysse Vader electric motorcycle deliveries were originally announced to commence in August this year but were pushed by a quarter in a bid to accommodate the FAME subsidy revision in the final price, apart from the iCAT certification. This is the company’s first offering to meet the FAME II requirements and comes with built-in Google Maps. Prices have now been revised to ₹1.62 lakh (ex-showroom), which pits the model against the Hop Oxo, Revolt RV400, Oben Rorr and the upcoming Matter Aera.
The Odysse Vader is the first electric motorcycle to get built-in Google Maps and is presently priced at ₹1.62 lakh (ex-showroom, after revised FAME II subsidy)
Nemin Vora, CEO – Odysse EV said, “In terms of our other products, the production is going on but for the Vader, we plan to to roll out 300-400 units every month for the initial two months and then scale it up once things are more streamlined for us. Roughly we have about 5,000 bookings and we plan to complete that in about six months.”
“Since we’ve started delivery, we are experiencing good demand mainly from South India from markets like Kerala, Karnataka and Tamil Nadu right now. Those three are our top three markets for the Vader,” Vora added.
Odysse EV has about 68 dealerships right now spread across Maharashtra, Gujarat, Rajasthan, Madhya Pradesh, Kerala, Tamil Nadu, and Karnataka. Vora revealed that South, West and Central India is where the brand has a better presence. The company recently expanded to the North East and East India with dealerships in West Bengal, Odisha, and now Assam. Odysse plans to expand its network to 90 dealerships by the end of the current financial year (FY2024) and further increase to over 150 outlets by the end of FY2025.
“When we launched, the FAME subsidy was on the higher side than what it is today. That’s definitely impacted our projections about what we had about the Vader because the subsidies have been revised. But we are still experiencing a good amount of demand for the Vader since the delivery has started,” Vora revealed further.
Odysse EV is now working on a new high-speed electric scooter slated to arrive next year. While the company has not shared more details on the new offering, we are told the upcoming e-scooter will be a 125 cc equivalent. The manufacturer is also looking to ramp up production with a new manufacturing facility in the works. Odysse presently has two plants located in Mumbai and Ahmedabad respectively and will consolidate its overall manufacturing to a single new plant. The new facility is coming up near Ahmedabad and will commence operations next year with an initial capacity of 10,000 units a month.
Citroen will add more features to the C3X to meet customer demand.
Citroen could delay the launch of the C3X, which is a sedan with a twist. Earlier scheduled to debut in mid-2024, we’ve learnt that after receiving feedback from stakeholders, Citroen has gone back to the drawing board to equip this car more generously, which could delay its launch.
C3X launch could be delayed by a few months
Feedback from stakeholders being considered
Citroen will add more features to the C3X sedan
The upcoming C3X is a fresh take on the sedan body style, with a coupe-like roofline, a notchback (like the Skoda Superb), and a crossover-like treatment that includes a raised ride height, tough body cladding, etc. The company is going to call it an ‘SUV-coupe’ to give it a unique position in its segment.
The Citroen C3X will be based on the C-Cubed platform, which underpins the C3, eC3 and C3 Aircross, and will also share several components, powertrains and equipment, among other things, to keep a check on costs. Due to the blatant cost-cutting and feature omissions on the recently launched C3 Aircross, sales of the SUV didn’t take off despite aggressive pricing, and within a month of its debut, the company was offering huge discounts to push sales.
Its poor start as well as feedback from customers, media and other stakeholders has certainly made the company’s top officials sit up and take notice. To meet the ever-growing demands of customers, we’re told that the C3X will get more equipment than the company had originally planned to correct some of the shortcomings of the C3 Aircross, which could delay the C3X from hitting showrooms.
Even though we aren’t certain what the C3X’s ‘updated’ equipment includes, we hope it packs in all or most of the C3 Aircross’ missing features like electric folding mirrors, automatic climate control, cruise control, wireless charging, LED headlamps, push-button start, keyless entry, ventilated front seats and a sunroof; these are available on competitor offerings.
The C3X will be powered by Citroen’s familiar 110hp, 1.2-litre three-cylinder turbo-petrol engine with a 6-speed manual transmission that does duty on the C3 and C3 Aircross. Citroen could also offer the 6-speed automatic transmission option right from launch; the torque convertor unit will make its debut in the C3 and C3 Aircross in the first quarter of 2024. An electric iteration of the C3X could hit the market in 2025.
Citroen C3X rivals
The Citroen C3X will rival midsize sedans like the Hyundai Verna, Volkswagen Virtus, Skoda Slavia and Honda City. However, on account of its coupe-like design and high-riding character, it could carve out its own niche. Interestingly, Tata will also launch the Curvv crossover with coupe-like styling by mid 2024, which will be a direct rival to the C3X. Going by Tata’s current portfolio, expect the Curvv to be generously equipped too. Will Citroen infuse the C3X with a healthy dose of premium features to match the Tata? We’ll find out soon.
By: Sameer Fayaz Contractor | Updated on: 28 Dec 2023, 21:58 PM
Indians travelled a whopping 6.8 billion kilometres in Uber cabs during the year, enough to cover the complete 6.37-million km road network in the cou
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Indians travelled a whopping 6.8 billion kilometres in Uber cabs during the year, enough to cover the complete 6.37-million km road network in the country more than a thousand times over.
While Indians travelled 6.8 billion km using Uber cabs in 2023, about 64 million km were covered using EVs
Uber India shared its annual data report revealing several key details about the year. The app-based cab aggregator revealed that Indians travelled a whopping 6.8 billion kilometres in Uber cabs during the year, enough to cover the complete 6.37-million km road network in the country more than a thousand times over. While Delhi-NCR saw the highest Uber trips in 2023, Bengaluru stood in second place with the second-most number of trips.
Sharing rider trends, Uber revealed that Uber Auto and Uber Go were its most popular products in 2023, particularly the former, which has largely been a street-hailed service. Apart from Delhi-NCR and Bengaluru, the cities with the highest number of trips include Hyderabad, Mumbai, Pune, and Kolkata. That said, Mumbai had the most light-night trips booked through the year, while users in Kolkata booked weekend travel the most.
Residents in Delhi-NCR mostly booked through the Uber app for commutes and had the highest number of office-hour trips. The company also revealed that most Uber trips were booked between 6 pm and 7 pm, while the most popular day for booking availing the service was Saturday.
Uber saw its highest monthly bookings in December while the Durga Puja and Christmas weekends were the most popular days for the company. The firm also recorded the highest number of Uber Reserve trips to airports between 4 pm and 5 pm. Concerning Uber Rentals, most users opted for the 2-hour, 20-km package. About 74,000 first-time users booked a seat through the app via Uber Bus. Lonavala was the most frequented tourist destination for users in Mumbai.
2023 also saw Uber introduce its flagship ‘Uber Green’ service bringing the option to book EVs via the app. The company said Indians travelled 64 million km using EVs this year spending a total of 3.9 million hours.
Dashboard will get a new dual-tone finish and larger touchscreen, among other updates.
We have already reported to you that the Mahindra XUV400 EV is due for an equipment upgrade that’ll be introduced sometime in early 2024. Now, a leaked internal document has revealed all the new features that the XUV400 will receive, chief among which will be dual 10.25-inch screens for the infotainment system and instrument cluster.
XUV400 EV to get dual 10.25-inch screens with Adrenox software
Dashboard to get new dual-tone finish, rear AC vents
Launch expected in early 2024
Mahindra XUV400 EV new features revealed
The leaked document reveals the XUV400 EV will get two new trims – EC Pro and EL Pro. It remains to be seen if these new trims will be introduced alongside the existing EC and EL trims, or it replaces them altogether.
The higher-spec EL Pro trim will get the new 10.25-inch screen running Mahindra’s Adrenox software. It will also receive a new 10.25-inch fully digital instrument cluster – the current model uses two analogue dials with a small digital MID in between. And while this will necessitate a major redesign of the dashboard, spy shots suggest that it will not be the twin connected screens as we see on the XUV700.
Other feature additions will include dual-zone climate control with a memory function, wireless phone charger, wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, Alexa connectivity, rear USB ports as well as rear AC vents which had been sorely missing from the XUV400 so far. The all-black dashboard in the current model will make way for a new dual-tone finish, and there will be a new flat-bottomed steering wheel as well.
We, however, do not expect major cosmetic updates to the extent of the XUV300 facelift that’s also due sometime in early 2024. There could be minor updates here and there, but the overall design will likely remain unchanged.
Mahindra XUV400 EV: no mechanical updates
There will also be no updates on the mechanical front. The leaked document reveals the EC Pro will get the 34.5kWh battery while the EL Pro will get the larger 39.4kWh battery. The former has a claimed range of 375km while the latter has a claimed range of 456km, both on the MIDC cycle. Mahindra could, however, consolidate the lineup by offering the faster 7.2kW AC charger as standard on both variants.
Both variants are powered by a front axle-mounted electric motor that produces 150hp and 310Nm of torque. It also will also continue with disc brakes for all four wheels, regenerative braking and three drive modes.
These updates should help the XUV400 close the gap to the Tata Nexon EV, which recently took a huge leap with a mid-lifecycle facelift. Expect a notable step up in prices as well.
Electric two-wheeler manufacturer Xero EV has joined with battery-swapping technology provider VoltUp for last-mile delivery solutions. The EV maker announced on Wednesday that it aims to get 15,000 electric two-wheelers on the road within the next two years, which will be used in the last-mile delivery segment.
By: HT Auto Desk | Updated on: 27 Dec 2023, 18:18 PM
Xero EV aims to produce 15,000 electric two-wheelers with swappable batteries by 2025.
Under the strategic partnership between Xero EV and VoltUp, the electric two-wheeler manufacturer’s pure electric scooters will leverage the latter’s battery-swapping facility across 12 cities in the country. The EV maker claims the partnership will revolutionise last-mile delivery solutions across these cities. While the company claimed that this partnership will initially benefit the Mink electric scooter, it will also benefit other Xero electric two-wheelers. Xero EV has further claimed that under this partnership, users of its electric two-wheelers will be able to swap their battery packs within a minute.
Speaking about this collaboration, Bharat Pritmani, co-founder of Xero EV has said that the two companies are creating a solution that not only meets but exceeds the demands of last-mile delivery partners. “This collaboration marks a turning point in the electric vehicle industry. By integrating Xero’s energy-efficient products with VoltUp’s swappable battery network, we are creating a solution that not only meets but exceeds the demands of last-mile delivery partners,” Pritmani added.
Ritesh Singh, Head of Business & Strategy at VoltUp said that this partnership between the two companies will play a pivotal role in minimizing costs for riders, unlocking new possibilities for the electric vehicle landscape. “The partnership between VoltUp and Xero EV not only underscores our dedication to offering cutting-edge solutions but also emphasises our commitment to creating a sustainable future for all. As we embark on this journey together, we are confident that this partnership will play a pivotal role in minimizing costs for riders, unlocking new possibilities for the electric vehicle landscape. The integration of VoltUp’s platform into Xero EVs Mink model will significantly reduce charging times, enabling riders to optimize their time on the road and eliminate the waiting game associated with traditional charging or fast charging stations,” he added.
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.
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).
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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