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Hyundai teases 2023 i20 facelift, to launch in India soon
Hyundai Motor is gearing up to launch the facelift version of its popular hatchback i20 soon. The carmaker took to social media to tease the first look at the upcoming model ahead of its launch, which is expected to take place later this year. The new Hyundai i20 facelift model is likely to come with several updates in terms of its features. When launched, the 2023 i20 hatchback will renew its rivalry with the likes of Maruti Suzuki Baleno among others in the compact segment.
Hyundai i20 facelift hatchback is expected to come with several design changes on the outside. The new-look i20 has already been spotted testing a number of time on Indian roads. The spy shots hint that the front face of the i20 will be updated with new elements like the grille and LED headlight units. The side and rear profile of the hatchback is expected to remain largely similar to the outgoing version, except for the taillight design. The alloy design too may get minor updates.
The interior of the new i20 is also expected to come with additional features.Hyundai may introduce dashcam as a first-in segment feature in the i20 facelift. It could use the same dashcam that was introduced in Exter SUV earlier. Besides this, Hyundai may also add other features like an electrically adjustable sunroof, 360-degree camera, front parking sensors and a larger touchscreen infotainment system. The i20 already offers features like digital instrument cluster, automatic climate control, cruise control, wireless charger and ambient lighting.
Hyundai is unlikely to make any changes under the hood. Expect the new i20 to come equipped with the same 1.2-litre petrol or the 1.0-litre turbocharged petrol unit as options. The 1.2-litre unit is capable of generating 82 bhp of maximum power and 114.7 Nm of maximum torque. The turbocharged unit can churn out 118 bhp of power and 172 Nm of peak torque. The transmission job is handled by either a five-speed manual, an IVT or a seven-speed DCT gearbox.
The current generation i20 hatchback is priced between ₹7.46 lakh and ₹11.88 lakh (ex-showroom). Expect the new facelift version to cost slightly more than that.
First Published Date: 01 Sep 2023, 16:42 PM IST
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Hero Electric enters premium electric bike segment under new A2B brand
Hero Electric has announced that the company will be diversifying into the premium electric bike segment under its new brand ‘A2B.’ The electric two-wheeler giant is one of the leaders in terms of volume in the electric scooter segment. The new A2B brand will further diversify the portfolio with electric bikes, scooters and other new variants in the category, the company said in a statement.
Hero Electric says its upcoming range of premium electric two-wheelers will be tailored to withstand Indian road and climatic conditions. The upcoming electric model range also promises robust battery systems, integrated powertrains, and aesthetics that reflect the premium buyer sensibilities.
Also Read : Hero Electric, Okinawa among other EV makers asked to refund FAME II incentives
Speaking on entering the premium e-bike segment, Sohinder Gill, CEO – Hero Electric, said, “While the Hero Electric brand continues to be the bedrock of our basic E-mobility thrust, we intend to invest in new brands for specific market categories. We believe that differentiation is key to market dominance, and going forward we will enter categories under specialist brand entities to bring focus to the market segments they represent, complementing the Hero brand as a legacy player in the mass mobility segment.”
Hero Electric is bullish about the long-term growth of the electric vehicle segment even as short-term challenges hamper the e-two-wheeler space at large. The company has over 15 years of experience in retailing electric two-wheelers largely focussed on the sub ₹1 lakh entry segment.
“The Indian market is ripe for e-mobility exploration, and we are perfectly positioned to meet the emerging demands, including those from the premium segment. Our commitment resonates with India’s aspiration to become a global EV hub, and we are eager to play a pivotal role in making that a reality,” Gill added further.
Commenting on the announcement, Naveen Munjal, MD – Hero Electric, said, “We are embarking on a de-aggregation strategy with specific brand offerings in different segments. This tactical move aims to focus on our traditional turf with the Hero Electric brand while allowing us to break into newer segments as competition builds up in this sector.”
Hero Electric has not announced the launch timeline for the premium EVs under the A2B brand. The company also remains tight-lipped about its upcoming model range, whether these models will be indigenously developed and at what price points will they be retailed at. The company has over 850 sales and service outlets across the country and has sold over six lakh units so far. The manufacturer has a manufacturing facility in Ludhiana, Punjab, and a shared facility in Pitampura, Madhya Pradesh with the Mahindra Group.
First Published Date: 31 Aug 2023, 18:06 PM IST
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Tata Nano EV price, Jayem Neo EV for sale, buyers guide
Here’s what you should know if you are considering buying a used Tata Nano-based Jayem Neo EV.
Published On Aug 31, 2023 05:35:00 PM
Do you fancy owning a small, nimble electric hatchback in the Rs 3 to 5 lakh price bracket? Then here’s an option that might interest you. It has been brought to our attention that there are several pre-owned examples of the Jayem Neo EV – the all-electric Tata Nano – for sale in cities like Bengaluru, Hyderabad and Delhi, on various online used car portals.
- Jayem Neo EV is based on the Tata Nano
- Used examples available for Rs 3-5 lakh
- Can be registered by private buyers too
Jayem Neo EV: what is it?
The Jayem Neo EV, or electric Tata Nano as some might know it, was jointly developed and engineered by Coimbatore-based engineering and production house Jayem, and Tata, under the close watch of Emeritus Chairman Ratan Tata. In 2018, Jayem made a batch of 400 cars to cater to an order from Ola Cabs, and these were delivered for use in Hyderabad and Bengaluru. The Neo EV was only available in a white finish and wore yellow plates, as these were used for commercial purposes only.
It came with a 17kWh battery and an electric motor that generated 27hp of power and 68Nm of torque. It boasted of a 0-40kph time of around 5.8 seconds. We recently reviewed the Jayem Neo EV, and we can confirm its real-world range is approximately 130km on a full charge.
Buying a used Jayem Neo EV
Several examples of this electric Nano are on sale in the used car market, and even though it wore commercial plates originally, buyers have the option to register it as a private vehicle as well, as it’s on sale in the pre-owned market.
Sellers are asking between Rs 3 lakh and 5 lakh for it, and while the price might seem relatively reasonable compared to new entry-level EVs like the MG Comet or Tata Tiago EV, prices for which start at Rs 7.98 lakh and Rs 8.69 lakh, respectively, there are a few things to keep in mind before signing on the dotted line for the Neo EV.
Our sources tell us that most Neo EVs have been out of commission and left abandoned for a few years. Some dealers, however, are refurbishing them, recalibrating their Battery Management System (BMS), and updating their passive cell balancing tech to optimise performance before putting them up for sale.
In addition to the electric powertrain, it is important to check whether all fluids (eg. brake fluids) and its 12V battery are replaced; electrical bits are working fine; and its suspension, brakes, steering and tyres are in good nick. Do keep a close eye for corrosion, as many of these cars were left unattended for unusually long periods of time.
Along with watching out for the above, you must inspect all the ownership documents (registration certificate, insurance) as well as the availability of an NOC (no objection certificate) from the seller to the buyer, if the latter is from a different state.
If all these points check out, consider moving ahead, but bear in mind the Jayem Neo EV isn’t backed by any warranty, nor will Tata service centres be able to provide technical support for this niche, all-electric offering.
Copyright (c) Autocar India. All rights reserved.
Uber completes four crore green kilometres; 10 years in India
Uber has completed 10 years in India and a total of four crore green kilometres – a cumulative figure from all its zero emissions rides. In total, all Uber rides in a decade of its operations here have clocked 3,300 crore kilometers, which the company says is equivalent to travelling from Earth to the Moon about 86,000 times.
As per the data sheet shared by the company, a total of 300 crore trips have been taken via the Uber India app thanks to over 30 lakh driver partners associated with the app. The company claims that the number is equivalent to filling up the Narendra Modi stadium in Ahmedabad over 30 times. And through these trips, the drivers have earned over 50,000 crore rupees since 2013.
The Uber app is now available in 125 cities across the country. On the occasion of the milestone of completing a decade in the country, the company release a short digital film to show how it has touched the lives of millions through its mobility solutions and innovations.
The company recently rolled out the ‘Group Rides’ feature that allows an individual customer to share their respective Uber rides with up to three other commuters if all the commuters are travelling to the same destination. It is a cab service equivalent of car pooling and can be shared by four persons who know each other.
With this, Uber India is promising a more economical way of commuting between two points as commuters can now share their rides on the app-based taxi-hailing service. The US-based company, in fact, claims that an individual sharing his or her Uber ride can save up to 30 per cent on the eventual payment by making use of the feature.
First Published Date: 30 Aug 2023, 17:11 PM IST
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TVS Apache 310 price, new naked bike India launch details
It will use the same engine as the Apache RR 310 and the BMW G 310 range.
TVS has released another teaser of its upcoming 310cc naked bike, which is based on the Apache RR 310, ahead of its launch just a week from now.
- Adjustable levers, twin-horn setup, horizontal dash visible in teaser
- Design will be very different when compared to the BMW G 310 R
- India launch on September 6
We have seen multiple teasers for this new machine, and we already know that the design won’t have much in common with its BMW counterpart, the G 310 R. The design, while literally under wraps for now, is quite edgy and sharp, and it’s must obviously visible in the sharp tank extensions and minimalist tail section.
The rear subframe and split seat setup appear to be new and the wheels are also different when seen in the light of any other TVS model on sale currently. The dash also appears to be a horizontally-mounted unit, as opposed to the vertical one found on other BMW-TVS 310 platform bikes. While it’s not visible here, the instrument cluster will most likely be a TFT unit. The trapezoidal mirrors also look different than anything seen on any previous TVS model.
The fork tops do not appear to have adjusters, but the BTO kit offered on the RR 310 could well be offered as an optional extra. What can also be seen here is a large radiator, LED indicators from the Ronin, adjustable levers, and a twin-horn setup. The naked TVS 310 also runs on the same grippy Michelin Road 5 tyres as the Apache RR 310, which is good news.
The exhaust muffler is the same as other Indo-Bavarian 310cc bikes, which means that while the styling and feature-set will likely be very different, expect the mechanicals to be quite familiar.
The rider in these images is TVS Motor Company’s Managing Director, Sudarshan Venu, who seems to be using a TVS-branded BluArmor-sourced Bluetooth intercom. To read our review of the TVS S20X Bluetooth communicator with mesh connectivity, tap here.
In pics: Toyota Innova HyCross flex-fuel MPV runs fully on ethanol
The flex-fuel Toyota Innova HyCross MPV is compatible with BS 6 Stage II norms.
Toyota Motor has introduced the world’s first car that can run fully on alternative fuel – ethanol and is equipped with a flex-fuel engine. The model is based on the Innova HyCross MPV and was officially launched at an event presided over by Union Minister Nitin Gadkari.
The electrified Innova HyCross flex-fuel is prototype in nature and is compatible with the latest emission norms of Bharat Stage 6 II. The electrified flex-fuel Innova HyCross will also be able to generate electric power on its own and able to run on EV mode as well as it gets a lithium-ion battery pack.
Toyota Innova HyCross flex-fuel MPV will run entirely on ethanol, a fuel derived from plants. The ethanol is graded E100, signifying that the car run fully on the alternative fuel. However, it is not yet known if and when the production version of the electrified flex-fuel model will hit the Indian roads.
For the flex-fuel version of the Innova HyCross, the company had to tune the engine so that it could run on E100 grade ethanol. The fuel tank and fuel pipe have also been modified. The 2.0-litre, four-cylinder engine unit, also used in the standard Innova HyCross, is compatible with E85 fuel. The spark plugs and piston rings of the MPV have been changed too.
Toyota has also added a cold-start system to the vehicle which allows it to power up in cold conditions as low as minus 15 degrees Celsius. The standard Innova HyCross hybrid MPV can generate 181 bhp of power and offer fuel economy of 23.24 kmpl. Toyota says the flex-fuel model can offer 30 to 50 per cent more efficiency.
India’s push for biofuel or alternative cleaner fuel gained momentum last year when the Centre rolled out petrol mixed with ethanol. India aims to achieve 20 per cent ethanol mixed in petrol by 2025.
Gadkari has been advocating use of alternative fuel every now and then to reduce costly import of crude oil, which is processed to produce conventional fuels like petrol and diesel. The introduction of alternative fuel also aims to reduce pollution as well as India’s carbon footprint.
First Published Date: 29 Aug 2023, 17:47 PM IST
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Karizma XMR price vs Yamaha R15 V4 vs Suzuki Gixxer SF 250 vs Bajaj Pulsar RS200 vs Hero Xtreme 200S 4V: engine, power, weight, features compared
The Karizma XMR is the most affordable bike in India to get an adjustable windscreen.
Published On Aug 29, 2023 05:42:00 PM
The brand-new Hero Karizma XMR has been launched in India, which means it’s time we stack it up against its primary rivals, and another fully-faired Hero, on paper.
Hero Karizma XMR vs rivals: engine & output
| Engine & output | |||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Hero Karizma XMR | Yamaha R15 V4 | Suzuki Gixxer SF 250 | Bajaj Pulsar RS200 | Hero Xtreme 200S 4V | |
| Engine | Liquid-cooled, 210cc, single-cylinder | Liquid-cooled, 155cc, single-cylinder | Air/oil-cooled, 249cc, single-cylinder | Liquid-cooled, 199cc, single-cylinder | Air/oil-cooled, 199cc, single-cylinder |
| Power | 25.5hp at 9,250rpm | 18.4hp at 10,000rpm | 26.5hp at 9,300rpm | 24.5hp at 9,750rpm | 19.1hp at 8,500rpm |
| Power-to-weight ratio | 156hp/tonne | 130.49hp/tonne | 164.60hp/tonne | 147.59hp/tonne | 123.22hp/tonne |
| Torque | 20.4Nm at 7,250rpm | 14.2Nm at 7,500rpm | 22.2Nm at 7,300rpm | 18.7Nm at 8,000rpm | 17.35Nm at 6,500rpm |
| Gearbox | 6-speed | 6-speed | 6-speed | 6-speed | 5-speed |
The Karizma XMR has the second-most powerful engine here, and packs in some Hero firsts, such as DOHC, liquid-cooling and a 6-speed gearbox (also seen on the Harley-Davidson X440 made by the company). The outlier here is the Xtreme 200S 4V, which is a notch down compared to the others, and is only here is a reference point as the other fully-faired Hero motorcycle.
Hero Karizma XMR vs rivals: dimensions & weight
| Dimensions & weight | |||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Hero Karizma XMR | Yamaha R15 V4 | Suzuki Gixxer SF 250 | Bajaj Pulsar RS200 | Hero Xtreme 200S 4V | |
| Kerb weight | 163.5kg | 141kg | 161kg | 166kg | 155kg |
| Seat height | 810mm | 815mm | 800mm | NA | 795mm |
| Wheelbase | 1351mm | 1325mm | 1345mm | 1345mm | 1344mm |
| Fuel capacity | 11 litres | 11 litres | 12 litres | 13 litres | 12.8 litres |
| Ground clearance | 160mm | 170mm | 165mm | 157mm | 165mm |
Despite having the smallest tank here (the same size as the Yamaha R15 V4), the Karizma XMR is the second heaviest bike here. It also has the longest wheelbase, which should make it quite a stable machine at highway speeds. However, we’ll only be able to vouch for that when our review drops on August 31 at 10am, so stay plugged in. The Yamaha R15 is, by far, the lightest machine here, and is the only serious sportbike, while the others are sport-tourers. This is reflected in the superior chassis componentry it packs in, such as a deltabox frame and a lightweight aluminium swingarm.
Hero Karizma XMR vs rivals: suspension & brakes
| Suspension & brakes | |||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Hero Karizma XMR | Yamaha R15 V4 | Suzuki Gixxer SF 250 | Bajaj Pulsar RS200 | Hero Xtreme 200S 4V | |
| Suspension (f) | Telescopic fork | USD fork | Telescopic fork | Telescopic fork | Telescopic fork |
| Suspension (r) | Monoshock | Monoshock | Monoshock | Monoshock | Monoshock |
| Brakes (f) | 300mm disc | 282mm disc | 300mm disc | 300mm disc | 276mm disc |
| Brakes (r) | 230mm disc | 220mm disc | 230mm disc | 230mm disc | 220mm disc |
| Tyres (f) | 100/80-17 | 100/80-17 | 110/70-17 | 110/70-17 | 100/80-17 |
| Tyres (r) | 140/70-17 | 140/70-R17 | 150/60-17 | 150/60-17 | 130/70-17 |
Cycle parts are an area where the Karizma isn’t the best-equipped in this company. The Yamaha R15 V4 boasts of a KYB USD fork, not found on any other bike in this comparison. Both, the Bajaj Pulsar RS200 and the Suzuki Gixxer SF 250, also have wider tyres than the XMR. Braking hardware is where the Karizma claws some ground back; it has the largest discs here (a three-way tie between it, the Pulsar RS200 and the Gixxer SF 250).
Also See:
Hero Karizma XMR image gallery
Hero Karizma XMR vs rivals: features
With an adjustable windscreen, bluetooth connectivity with turn-by-turn navigation, a slip and assist clutch, all-LED lighting and dual-channel ABS, it’s safe to say the Hero Karizma XMR is a feature-packed machine. However, the Yamaha R15 V4 is the only bike to have a traction control system and a quickshifter here.
Hero Karizma XMR vs rivals: price
| Price | |||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Hero Karizma XMR | Yamaha R15 V4 | Suzuki Gixxer SF 250 | Bajaj Pulsar RS200 | Hero Xtreme 200S 4V | |
| Price (ex-showroom, Delhi) | Rs 1,72,900 (introductory) | Rs 1,81,700 – Rs 1,86,700 | Rs 1,81,400 – Rs 2,05,501 | Rs 1,72,358 | Rs 1,41,250 |
At its introductory price, the Hero Karizma XMR undercuts its primary rivals, the R15 and Gixxer SF 250, by a good deal. In fact, its so aggressively priced that its price is almost on par with the dated Bajaj Pulsar RS200. Once the introductory price window closes, prices will rise up to Rs 1,82,900. Bookings have already commenced for the Hero Karizma XMR, and it remains to be seen if this modern reincarnation will achieve the success of the original Hero Honda Karizma.
Copyright (c) Autocar India. All rights reserved.
Tesla braces for its first trial involving Autopilot fatality
Self-driving capability is central to Tesla’s financial future, according to Musk, whose own reputation as an engineering leader is being challenged with allegations by plaintiffs in one of two lawsuits that he personally leads the group behind technology that failed. Wins by Tesla could raise confidence and sales for the software, which costs up to $15,000 per vehicle.
Tesla faces two trials in quick succession, with more to follow. The first, scheduled for mid-September in a California state court, is a civil lawsuit containing allegations that the Autopilot system caused owner Micah Lee’s Model 3 to suddenly veer off a highway east of Los Angeles at 65 miles per hour, strike a palm tree and burst into flames, all in the span of seconds.
The 2019 crash, which has not been previously reported, killed Lee and seriously injured his two passengers, including a then-8-year old boy who was disemboweled. The lawsuit, filed against Tesla by the passengers and Lee’s estate, accuses Tesla of knowing that Autopilot and other safety systems were defective when it sold the car.
Musk ‘de facto leader of Autopilot team
The second trial, set for early October in a Florida state court, arose out of a 2019 crash north of Miami where owner Stephen Banner’s Model 3 drove under the trailer of an 18-wheeler big rig truck that had pulled into the road, shearing off the Tesla’s roof and killing Banner. Autopilot failed to brake, steer or do anything to avoid the collision, according to the lawsuit filed by Banner’s wife.
Tesla denied liability for both accidents, blamed driver error and said Autopilot is safe when monitored by humans. Tesla said in court documents that drivers must pay attention to the road and keep their hands on the steering wheel. “There are no self-driving cars on the road today,” the company said.
The civil proceedings will likely reveal new evidence about what Musk and other company officials knew about Autopilot’s capabilities – and any possible deficiencies. Banner’s attorneys, for instance, argue in a pretrial court filing that internal emails show Musk is the Autopilot team’s “de facto leader”.
Tesla and Musk did not respond to Reuters’ emailed questions for this article, but Musk has made no secret of his involvement in self-driving software engineering, often tweeting about his test-driving of a Tesla equipped with “Full Self-Driving” software. He has for years promised that Tesla would achieve self-driving capability only to miss his own targets.
Tesla won a bellwether trial in Los Angeles in April with a strategy of saying that it tells drivers that its technology requires human monitoring, despite the “Autopilot” and “Full Self-Driving” names. The case was about an accident where a Model S swerved into the curb and injured its driver, and jurors told Reuters after the verdict that they believed Tesla warned drivers about its system and driver distraction was to blame.
Stakes higher for Tesla
The stakes for Tesla are much higher in the September and October trials, the first of a series related to Autopilot this year and next, because people died.
“If Tesla backs up a lot of wins in these cases, I think they’re going to get more favorable settlements in other cases,” said Matthew Wansley, a former General Counsel of nuTonomy, an automated driving startup and Associate Professor of Law at Cardozo School of Law.
On the other hand, “a big loss for Tesla – especially with a big damages award” could “dramatically shape the narrative going forward,” said Bryant Walker Smith, a law professor at the University of South Carolina.
In court filings, the company has argued that Lee consumed alcohol before getting behind the wheel and that it is not clear whether Autopilot was on at the time of crash.
Jonathan Michaels, an attorney for the plaintiffs, declined to comment on Tesla’s specific arguments, but said “we’re fully aware of Tesla’s false claims including their shameful attempts to blame the victims for their known defective autopilot system.”
In the Florida case, Banner’s attorneys also filed a motion arguing punitive damages were warranted. The attorneys have deposed several Tesla executives and received internal documents from the company that they said show Musk and engineers were aware of, and did not fix, shortcomings.
In one deposition, former executive Christopher Moore testified there are limitations to Autopilot, saying it “is not designed to detect every possible hazard or every possible obstacle or vehicle that could be on the road,” according to a transcript reviewed by Reuters.
In 2016, a few months after a fatal accident where a Tesla crashed into a semi-trailer truck, Musk told reporters that the automaker was updating Autopilot with improved radar sensors that likely would have prevented the fatality.
But Adam (Nicklas) Gustafsson, a Tesla Autopilot systems engineer who investigated both accidents in Florida, said that in the almost three years between that 2016 crash and Banner’s accident, no changes were made to Autopilot’s systems to account for cross-traffic, according to court documents submitted by plaintiff lawyers.
The lawyers tried to blame the lack of change on Musk. “Elon Musk has acknowledged problems with the Tesla autopilot system not working properly,” according to plaintiffs’ documents. Former Autopilot engineer Richard Baverstock, who was also deposed, stated that “almost everything” he did at Tesla was done at the request of “Elon,” according to the documents.
Tesla filed an emergency motion in court late on Wednesday seeking to keep deposition transcripts of its employees and other documents secret. Banner’s attorney, Lake “Trey” Lytal III, said he would oppose the motion.
“The great thing about our judicial system is Billion Dollar Corporations can only keep secrets for so long,” he wrote in a text message.
First Published Date: 28 Aug 2023, 20:00 PM IST
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2023 JK Tyre National Racing Championship Round 1 results
Arjun S Nair also notched double wins in the JK Tyre Novice Cup.
The 2023 edition of the JK Tyre National Racing Championship (JK NRC) got underway, with Round 1 held at the Kari Motor Speedway.
Tijil Rao started the season on a strong note, securing two wins in the headlining LGB Formula 4 category. Arjun S Nair was another driver to score double wins, with a strong showing in the JK Tyre Novice Cup. Read on for the full results.
LGB Formula 4
The LGB Formula 4 category features made-in-India single seaters, powered by a 1,298cc Suzuki engine. Rao pulled off a last lap overtake to win the opening race, with his Dark Don Racing teammates, Arya Singh and Diljith TS, completing the podium. Race 2 saw the team take a 1-2 finish, this time with Singh defeating Rao.
Singh led most of Race 3, but MSport driver Ruhaan Alva gained ground quickly and passed him on the final lap to take victory. Alva looked set to win the reverse grid Race 4 as well, but spun out of the race. Rao ended up overtaking Diljith TS to score his second win of the weekend.
Results
Race 1
1. Tijil Rao (Dark Don Racing) – 23mins 21:171secs
2. Arya singh (Dark Don Racing) – 23mins 21:369secs
3. Diljith TS (Dark Don Racing) – 23mins 21:586secs
Race 2
1. Arya Singh (Dark Don Racing) – 22mins 28.087secs
2. Tijil Rao (Dark Don Racing) – 22mins 28.370secs
3. Viswas Vijayaraj (Ahura Racing) – 22mins 31.297secs
Race 3
1. Ruhaan Alva (MSport) – 22mins 09.037secs
2. Arya Singh (Dark Don Racing) – 22mins 09.084secs
3. Tijil Rao (Dark Don Racing) – 22mins 10.131secs
Race 4
1. Tijil Rao (Dark Don Racing) – 27mins 51.142secs
2. Diljith TS (Dark Don Racing) – 27mins 51.822secs
3.Saran Vikram Tmars (Mars Racing) – 28mins 05.523secs
JK Tyre Novice Cup
The Novice Cup is for amateurs taking their first steps into the world of formula car racing. Momentum Motorsports’ Arjun S Nair won both races on Saturday. But he failed to repeat this feat on Sunday, with his teammate Neythan McPherson and DTS Racing’s Joel Joseph winning a race each.
Results
Race 1
1. Arjun S Nair (Momentum Motorsports) – 13mins 23:275secs
2. Neythan McPherson (Momentum Motorsports) – 13mins 24:517secs
3. Joel Josheph (DTS Racing) – 13mins 27:272secs
Race 2
1. Arjun S Nair (Momentum Motorsports) – 13mins 41.982secs
2. Saishiva Sankaran (MSport) – 13mins 47.537secs
3. Abhay M (Msport) – 13mins 48.318secs
Race 3
1. Neythan McPherson (Momentum Motorsports) – 14mins 28.205secs
2. Aman Nagdev (MSport) – 14mins 28.801secs
3. Arjun S Nair (Momentum Motorsports) – 14mins 29.264secs
Race 4
1. Joel Joseph (DTS Racing) – 16mins 20.908secs
2. Arjun S Nair (Momentum Motorsports) – 16mins 21.077secs
3. Neythan McPherson (Momentum Motorsports) – 16mins 21.077secs
Royal Enfield Continental GT Cup
The JK NRC also hosts the Royal Enfield Continental GT Cup, where amateur and professional riders compete together on the same grid astride identical, race-prepped Continental GT-R650s.
Anand R survived an incident-packed race and fended off Md. Samrul Zubair to win Race 1. The next race was won by Abhishek Vasudev, but Zubair made another podium appearance, this time in third place.
Results
Race 1
1. Anand R – 14mins 53.242secs
2. Md. Samrul Zubair – 14mins 53.806secs
3. Abhishek Vasudev – 14mins 54.196secs
Race 2
1. Abhishek Vasudev – 13mins 53.248secs
2. Ullass Nanda – 13mins 53.651secs
3. Md. Samrul Zubair – 13mins 57.403secs
JK Tyre 250 Cup
The JK Tyre 250 Cup race, featuring the Suzuki Gixxer 250cc bikes, was won by Sarvesh Balappa. Polesitter G. Abhinav maintained a good pace, and even set the fastest lap — 1min 25.00secs — but that wasn’t enough to defeat Balappa, who started from P2 on the grid.
Results
1. Sarvesh Balappa – 15mins 16.345secs
2. Abhinav G – 15mins 19.623secs
3. Rohit Lad – 15mins 27.436secs
Also see:
Nissan plans to launch 19 new electric cars by 2030. Which will come to India?
Nissan is planning to launch 27 electrified cars globally by 2030 and 19 among them will be pure electric new models. The wide range of electric cars will be launched under both the Nissan and Infiniti brands, revealed Automotive News. The Japanese car brand has reportedly showcased the new generation Nissan Leaf EV at the brand’s annual dealer conference in Las Vegas earlier this week.
The report claims that the upcoming electric cars from Nissan and Infiniti will include a crossover coupe that will replace the Leaf EV. Also, there will be a performance sedan that will take place the current internal combustion engine-powered Maxima. Besides that, there will be a pure electric crossover based on the CMF-EV architecture that underpins the Ariya crossover.
Also Read : Nissan recalls over 236,000 cars in this country. Here’s why
The report further claims that the next-generation Leaf EV will reportedly offer 25 per cent more range than the current iteration of the electric vehicle. It would come looking like a mini Ariya. The current Nissan Leaf has a range of 341 km on a single charge thanks to the 60 kWh battery pack. The upcoming one would come offering a 426 km range on a single charge.
Interestingly, Nissan is also working on solid-state battery technology that will ensure a significantly longer range compared to the current crop of lithium-ion battery packs. The next-generation Nissan Leaf EV will reportedly feature solid-state batteries and a dual-motor all-wheel drivetrain. Also, it claims to promise a high level of comfort and an energizing driving experience.
The EV offensive from the Japanese car brand is aimed at grabbing a large chunk of the global electric vehicle market that is bulging fast thanks to the growing focus on electric mobility from consumers, tightening emission norms and push from governments around the world through supportive incentives.
First Published Date: 27 Aug 2023, 16:54 PM IST
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Rimac Nevera Nurburgring record: lap time, details, Time Attack edition, Tesla Model S time
The previous record for fast production EV was set by the Tesla Model S Track Pack.
The Rimac Nevera has broken the Nurburgring lap record for a production electric car, posting a blistering time of 7min 5sec to complete a full lap of the 20.6km circuit. The Croatian company celebrated the record by launching a limited-edition Nevera called the Time Attack at Pebble Beach.
- Lap record was set by Croatian racing driver Martin Kodrik
- Nevera produces 1914hp, 2369Nm
- Rimac also unveiled a limited edition Nevera Time Attack
Rimac Nevera Nurburgring lap time
Driven by Croatian racing driver Martin Kodrik, the Nevera shattered the previous record for a production EV of 20 seconds by the Tesla Model S Track Pack, which posted a time of 7:25.231. The Nevera produces 1,914hp and 2,369Nm from its four electric motors, and with its 120kWh battery pack, it has a range of up to 490km (WLTP).
Rimac Nevera Time Attack edition details
Alongside setting the lap record, Rimac also unveiled the first of the 12 Nevera Time Attack limited edition cars at Monterey Car Week in the USA. The first Nevera Time Attack is finished in black with highlights – twin stripes, lower half of the body, wheels as well as parts front and rear bumpers – finished in lightning green. Inside, it gets black Alcantara fabric with green contrast stitching and highlights on the seats and door panels, along with a ‘Time Attack: 1 of 12’ plaque.
Rimac Nevera’s other records
Recently, the Nevera set 23 acceleration and braking records. It achieved a 0-400-0kph time of 29.93 seconds at a test track in Germany, however, less than a month later, the Koenigsegg Regera set a new record of 28.81 seconds. Additionally, the Nevera had done the 0-100kph sprint in just 1.81 seconds, and it also bested the times set by Autocar India in a Pininfarina Battista earlier this year.
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Rimac Nevera sets new 0-400-0kph record of 29.93 seconds
Mercedes AMG One sets new Nurburgring lap record of 6min 35.183sec
2024 Mercedes-Benz EQA, EQB facelifts unveiled with cosmetic tweaks, new features
Mercedes-Benz has unveiled the 2024 EQA and EQB facelifts for the global markets with a bunch of updates. The 2024 Mercedes-Benz EQB and EQA facelift get cosmetic tweaks as well as new features, while there are improvements to the mechanicals as well. Both electric SUVs are one of the most affordable from the automaker and are expected to arrive in India at a later date. The EQB is already on sale here, which makes the arrival of the facelift imminent.
Visually, the facelifted Mercedes-Benz EQB and EQA electric SUVs get a new black panel grille with the star pattern, while there are new alloy wheels on offer. Most of the other cosmetic elements have been carried over. Inside, there’s a new 10.25-inch infotainment system as standard with an updated steering wheel with touch control panels borrowed from the newer EQ model range. The cabin gets the new brown lime open-pore wood trim for a premium feel.
Also Read : Mercedes EQE electric SUV to make India debut on this date
Powertrain options on the 2024 EQA and EQB remain the same with the power output ranging between 187 bhp and 288 bhp, while peak torque output stands between 385 Nm and 520 Nm. Mercedes says it has been able to optimise range on either electric SUV with the EQA now returning 560 km (WLTP) on a single charge, up by 130 km over the pre-facelift version. This has been made possible by aerodynamic optimisation and new high-rolling-resistance-optimised tyres. On the other hand, the 2024 EQB gets a range of 536 km in the 250+ variant with a 70.5 kWh battery pack.
Other upgrades include a trailer hitch including ESP trailer stabilisation on the Mercedes EQB. This brings a towing capacity of 1,700 kg on the electric SUV. Both electric SUVs also get the Plug & Charge function that brings more convenient charging at public charging points. This will require the charging solution to be pre-determined with the Mercedes Me app and will ensure that the vehicle automatically connects with the charging station.
Furthermore, the 2024 Mercedes-Benz EQA and EQB get an optional Burmester surround sound system with a Dolby Atmos experience, the latest generation MBUX user interface with three customised display styles – Subtle, Sporty and Classic. Mercedes has also improved the sensor technology with a new mono-multipurpose camera and a new backup camera that makes safety systems like Active Lane Keeping Assist more accurate with steering intervention instead of ESP.
Mercedes will begin sending the EQA and EQB facelifts to European dealers by early 2024 and you can expect the EQB to land in India first. The EQA could also make its way to the market as the most affordable electric SUV from the German automaker. The EQB arrives as a Completely Built Unit (CBU), which could be the case with the facelifted version as well.
First Published Date: 26 Aug 2023, 17:53 PM IST
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.jpeg&w=700&q=90&c=1 "BNCAP crash test ratings, testing protocols, star ratings, differences and similarities with GNCAP")
BNCAP crash test ratings, testing protocols, star ratings, differences and similarities with GNCAP
The Global NCAP will hand over the reins of Indian vehicle crash testing to Bharat NCAP, bringing an end to the ‘Safer cars for India’ programme.
Published On Aug 26, 2023 02:28:00 PM
The Ministry of Road Transport and Highways (MoRTH) recently launched the new Bharat NCAP norms that are set to come into effect from October 1, 2023. The programme has been formulated on the latest GNCAP protocols, and while most testing procedures and standards are identical between the two, there’s one major difference that sets them apart.
Global NCAP and Bharat NCAP: the one difference
Under GNCAP, the maximum a vehicle can score in Adult Occupant Protection (AOP) is 34 points, while under BNCAP, it’s 32 points. Both testing protocols award 16 points each for front and side impact test, but GNCAP awards two additional points for seat belt reminders – half a point for each of the front seats and 1 point for the second-row.
BNCAP, on the other hand, does not award any points for seat belt reminders. However, it mandates it for a 3-star rating or higher, albeit only for the front seats. The MoRTH had previously issued a draft notification mandating rear seat belt reminders, which was promptly followed up by manufacturers who installed it in their vehicles. So it’s strange that this has been given a miss.
Global NCAP and Bharat NCAP: the similarities
1. Child occupant protection – For child occupants, the scoring and assessment procedures are identical in both programmes. Both NCAPs award 16 points for the frontal impact test, 8 points for the side impact test, 12 points for CRS installation and 13 points for vehicle-based assessments such as ISOFIX usability, integrated CRS, provision of three-point seatbelts and more.
2. ESC requirement – As of 2023, ESC is optional without a minimum fitment rate, but from 2024, for vehicles to secure 3 stars or higher – under both GNCAP and BNCAP – it has to be a standard fitment. However, there is a clause involved in making ESC standard fitment. The protocols state that fitting ESC in cars must be a two-step process – as standard in the bestselling variant of the vehicle or in equal number in other variants. Both NCAPs also require manufacturers to make ESC standard across all variants within two years of the test result publication. In the same time period, it must also be offered as a ‘standalone’ option, and not combined with any other feature.
3. Side pole impact test – Both GNCAP and BNCAP state that for a vehicle to be tested for pole impact, it has to be fitted with some kind of head protection system, such as side and curtain airbags. Pole tests will not be allowed if side head protection systems are absent. For a 5-star rating, both NCAPs also require at least 50 percent of the vehicle’s variants to be fitted with head protection systems by the end of 2023, 70 percent by the end of 2024, 90 percent by the end of 2025 and 100 percent by 2026.
Interestingly, if a vehicle is tested for side impact in 2023, it could get a 3-star rating or higher, provided it qualifies all other criteria. This is regardless of whether it has a head protection system.
4. Pedestrian Protection – Lastly, Bharat NCAP requires all vehicles to comply with AIS100 norms which is similar to the UN127 norms that’s required by Global NCAP.
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Kinetic Energy delivers 200 Flex electric scooters to students in Madhya Pradesh
Pune-based Kinetic Green Energy and Power Solutions Limited has announced it delivered over 200 Flex electric scooters to the Madhya Pradesh government. These electric scooters have been awarded to the government school students for their outstanding performance in class 12. The Kinetic Green Flex electric scooters were handed over to students in the presence of MP Chief Minister Shivraj Singh Chauhan in the city of Damoh.
The Kinetic Green Flex is a high-speed electric scooter that promises a range of 120 km on a single charge from its 3.1 kWh battery pack. The e-offering gets a detachable lithium-ion battery that takes about 3-4 hours to fully charge. The retro-styled e-scooter comes with a round headlamp, flat seat, BLDC hub motor and alloy wheels. The e-scooter has a top speed of 72 kmph.
Also Read : All-electric Kinetic Luna moped launch confirmed; likely to be called eLuna
Commenting on the occasion, Sulajja Firodia Motwani, Founder and CEO of Kinetic Green, said, “I congratulate the students who have performed exceptionally well in class 12. I am honoured that these students will be the proud owners of Kinetic Green Flex. This makes me extremely happy to see that this generation is readily adopting electric mobility. I would like to thank the Madhya Pradesh government for giving us the opportunity to support them in the success of the initiative. It is a significant step towards promoting sustainable transportation and reducing carbon emissions in India. I hope that the program will inspire more people to adopt electric vehicles in the country.”
Kinetic Green said that its dealers located in and around Madhya Pradesh made the delivery possible with support from the district education department. On the feature front, the model gets the Central Braking System (CBS), a Home mode that keeps a charge in reserve; an anti-theft alarm, a digital display and more. The Kinetic Green Flex is priced at ₹1.18 lakh (ex-showroom).
First Published Date: 25 Aug 2023, 19:51 PM IST
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2023 Aston Martin DB12 price, bookings, features, performance and more
The latest GT from the British brand uses a 680hp version of its predecessor’s AMG-sourced V8.
The Aston Martin DB12 will hit Indian shores for an official launch on September 29, 2023, just four months after its global debut. The car will make its India debut at the British High Commission in New Delhi, and deliveries are expected to begin in the last few months of 2023.
The successor to the DB11, the lineage is clear to see in the car’s design, but there are differences. The grille is much larger, the nose entirely more aggressive, and the new swept-back headlamps feature the brand’s new LED DRL signature. Around the sides the lines are more aggressive too, including a huge air vent emerging from the front wheel arch. The front and rear tracks, meanwhile, have been widened by 6mm and 22mm respectively, and that shows in the stance as well.
Aston Martin DB12 engine and performance
The Aston Martin DB12 uses an updated version of its predecessor’s chassis and mechanicals. This includes the 4.0-litre twin-turbo V8 sourced from Mercedes-AMG, which has now been uprated to 680hp and 800Nm. The V12 engine option has been dropped entirely, although with a weight saving of 100kg as a result, real-world performance is said to be even greater. Power goes to the rear wheels via an 8-speed automatic gearbox and new electronic rear differential, 0-100kph is claimed to be covered in 3.6sec, while the top speed is said to be 325kph.
Aston calls the DB12 a ‘super tourer’, alluding to its greater performance and handling. This is aided by a 7 percent stiffer chassis, uprated adaptive dampers, and an entirely new ESC system, all of which are said to give it a “wider breadth of abilities”, both on the performance and comfort fronts.
Aston Martin DB12 interior and features
The Aston Martin DB12 has been given an entirely new interior, an area that drew some criticism in its predecessor. Apart from a greater use of higher-quality materials all around, customers can avail of a much greater deal of customisation than before via the brand’s Q catalogue of options. As before, the two-door Grand Tourer features a set of rear seats.
The bigger news comes is the brand’s new proprietary electronic architecture and infotainment system, which will soon make its way into other Aston Martins. Ditching the generations-old Mercedes system of the DB11, the new system includes a 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster, and a 12.3-inch touchscreen. The latter features, among other things, Apple Carplay and Android Auto, onboard 4G connectivity and over-the-air updates.
Aston Martin DB12 Price and Bookings
The Aston Martin DB12 is priced from Rs 4.80 crore, ex showroom – India, before options. Of course, with the brand’s extensive ‘Q’ customisation programme, this price could easily shoot up quite a bit as customers personalise their own coupe, which can be done here. India bookings for the new luxury sports coupe were opened in June this year, shortly after the car’s global debut.
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Yuma Energy partners with MCD & BSES to set up battery swapping stations in Delhi
Yuma Energy, a joint venture between Magna and Yulu, has announced setting up battery-swapping stations across Delhi to strengthen the national capital’s charging infrastructure. The energy-as-a-service company partnered with the Municipal Corporation of Delhi (MCD) and BSES Rajdhani Power Limited (BRPL) for the same with the first battery-swapping station inaugurated at Siri Fort Auditorium in Delhi.
Yuma Energy is one of the bigger players in the battery charging and swapping stations business. The company already has over 120 swapping stations located across Bengaluru, Gurugram, Mumbai, Navi Mumbai and Delhi. The company says it supports half a million swaps and serves 125,000 customers every month. Yuma’s primary customer base includes Q-commerce (quick commerce) and food delivery platforms.
Also Read : Yulu launches its first electric two-wheeler Wynn, priced at ₹55,555
Muthu Subramanian, Managing Director and General Manager, Yuma Energy said, “We thank MCD and BRPL for their ongoing support in helping accelerate electric mobility in the Delhi region. We look forward to working together as MCD and BRPL advance their green-mobility initiatives, and we continue to grow Yuma’s footprint in Delhi.”
“MCD is making an all-out effort to create an optimal e-mobility eco-system in Delhi through the establishment of EV battery swapping stations and EV charging stations. Inauguration of battery swapping station at Siri Fort Auditorium by Yuma Energy, an EV charging infra partner of BRPL will help augment EV transportation in Delhi. We hope Yuma will bestow a great EV charging experience to the citizens of Delhi through their state-of-the-art EV charging infrastructure,” said Sh. Amit Kumar, Deputy Commissioner, MCD.
Sanjeev Gupta, Senior VP – BSES Rajdhani Power Limited, said, “BSES is leading the efforts in putting up e-vehicle infrastructure in Delhi. This partnership to set up battery-swapping stations in the national capital is the latest testimonial in these efforts. We will continue to drive innovation along with like-minded partners to make Delhi the EV capital of India.”
While Yuma’s battery swapping stations primarily cater to Yulu’s electric bike fleet, the company aims to open its services to more OEMs and electric mobility operators in a bid to make swaps more accessible to the end user. This should also promote shorter swap times.
First Published Date: 24 Aug 2023, 19:19 PM IST
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Mahindra Thar price, Thar 5 door launch date, new touchscreen details
The Thar 3 door comes with a much smaller 7-inch infotainment screen at the moment.
The Mahindra Thar family is all set to expand with the introduction of the Thar 5-door early next year. It is already known that the more practical Thar 5-door will have a lot in common with its shorter 3-door sibling, however, the latest spy shots suggest that it could also receive minor styling tweaks and feature additions, including a much larger touchscreen system.
- Thar 5-door could get a bigger touchscreen
- Will come with petrol and diesel engine options
- Will also come with a single-pane sunroof
Mahindra Thar 5-door to be loaded with features
With the Thar 5-door, Mahindra will be targetting SUV buyers who want a practical vehicle that can be used for daily commuting as well as for off-road and outdoor sorties. Therefore, a longer features list and more creature comforts are expected on the 5-door version.
Spy shots have confirmed that some variants will get a sunroof, front and rear centre armrests and a few other features, including an all-new infotainment screen. The 3-door model currently comes equipped with a 7-inch touchscreen, while the unit seen on a latest test mule could be around 10-inches, or an even larger, and comes in a completely new housing that has a floating look.
Larger touchscreen seen on a latest test mule of the Thar 5-door.
Mahindra currently offers touchscreens in various sizes in its SUV line-up, starting with the 7-inch on the Thar 3-door, going up to an 8-inch on the Scorpio N, the 9-inch unit on the XUV300 and XUV400, and a large 10.25-inch version on the XUV700.
The 7-inch screen on the Thar 3-door has been criticised for its mediocre interface and display, and also for its relatively smaller size as opposed to 8-inch units that’s pretty much the norms on almost every other mainstream car or SUV. The larger screen on the Thar 5-door will then be a major step up.
Mahindra Thar 5-door launch early next year
The production-spec Thar 5-door with petrol and diesel engines will go on sale only next year. The brand currently has its hands full with over 2.8 lakh vehicles to be delivered; the Thar itself has over 68,000 open bookings as of August 2023. The SUV currently garners 10,000 fresh orders every month for the 2WD and 4WD models. Mahindra has confirmed that the Thar 2WD’s demand is skyrocketing and it currently has a 15-month waiting period. The more expensive Thar 4WD has around a five-month waiting period at most locations.
Apart from the Thar 5-door, Mahindra is also readying a major update on the XUV300 compact SUV for a 2024 launch. Last week, Mahindra also unveiled the Thar.e concept as well as a Scorpio N-based pickup truck concept at its Futurescape event in Cape Town, South Africa.
Image Credit – Charles Naveen
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We will be volunteering to get our cars crash tested: Maruti on Bharat NCAP
The Union Minister for Road Transport and Highways, Nitin Gadkari launched India’s own crash test norms on Tuesday. It is called Bharat New Car Assessment Programme (Bharat NCAP) and it will be enforced across the country from October 2023. Now, Maruti Suzuki has announced that they will send out their vehicles to be tested under the Bharat NCAP crash test.
This information was confirmed by CV Raman, CTO, Maruti Suzuki India. Moreover, Mr Rahul Bharti, Executive Officer of Maruti Suzuki also said that they will offer at least three models for Bharat NCAP crash testing in the first batch. As of now, the name of the models has not been confirmed. However, it can be the manufacturer’s recent launches such as Grand Vitara and new-gen Baleno.
The past record of Maruti Suzuki is not very strong when it comes to crash test ratings. The S-Presso, Alto and Eeco have scored zero stars in the adult safety rating and two stars in the child safety rating. The WagonR and Swift scored two stars in adult as well as child safety rating whereas the Ertiga scored three stars. The safest car that the Maruti Suzuki currently makes is the Brezza with four and two stars for adult and child safety ratings respectively.
According to CV Raman, CTO, Maruti Suzuki India, “It is a welcome step and we are proud as we had been working along with the government and test agencies in the discussions around formulation of the standards. We will be volunteering to get our cars tested under the BNCAP standards, which are same as the revised GNCAP protocols.
“Any car that is launched in India follows the mandatory safety standards set by the government. For consumers seeking extra safety information the Bharat NCAP system is an authentic and objective rating system to empower the customer to make an informed choice. Maruti Suzuki welcomes this initiative of the Government and will offer atleast 3 models for BNCAP testing in the first lot itself. At the same time, we would request all users to fasten seatbelts whether in the front or rear seats as that is the most critical factor in keeping passengers safe.” said Mr Rahul Bharti, Executive Officer, Maruti Suzuki
First Published Date: 23 Aug 2023, 17:21 PM IST
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Ola Diamondhead price, M1 name trademarked, India launch details
Alongside the Diamondhead, a trio of names starting with the prefix M1 have been trademarked.
A little over a week ago, Ola revealed its updated e-scooter line-up alongside four radical-looking electric bike concepts. Now, we have learnt that the company has also trademarked four names supporting those concepts.
The most talked-about concept at the event was the Diamondhead sportbike, and Ola has trademarked that name, although it is unlikely to go into production featuring that same outlandish design.
The three other trademarks are M1 Adventure, M1 Cruiser and M1 Cyber Racer. The first two names are pretty straightforward and leave nothing to the imagination when it comes to which e-bike they’ll find themselves on down the line. The third one could possibly be what Ola calls its interpretation of a roadster.
Despite these trademark filings, we think an official launch is still quite some time away because at the Independence Day event, very few details of the bikes were shown and absolutely no specifications were shared. The only clue launch timeline shared was ‘end 2024’ mentioned on a presentation slide.
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