By: bloomberg , updated on: November 12, 2024, 10:00 am
The EU and China are discussing a solution to the EV tariff war.
The EU and China are discussing a solution to the EV tariff war. (AFP)
The EU is seeing very limited progress in talks with China aimed at finding an alternative to tariffs on electric vehicles, and the bloc sees little chance of a quick deal at the moment, according to people familiar with the matter.
China and the EU will continue technical talks this week after discussions in Beijing where both sides reported some progress.
However, the chances of a deal are slim at the moment, said the people, who spoke on condition of anonymity to discuss private talks. China has not yet moved toward strict EU requirements to ensure that any arrangement is enforceable and matches the impact of anti-subsidy tariffs adopted last month, the people said.
The two sides are exploring an agreement on so-called price undertakings – a complex mechanism to control prices and volumes of exports, which is used to avoid tariffs.
Recent talks have mostly focused on establishing a communication mechanism between Brussels and Beijing, as well as avoiding the risk of so-called cross-compensation, whereby any minimum import price on EVs is offset by hybrid cars and accessories such as are offset by sales of other goods. people said.
The two sides also remain at odds over the possibility of agreements with individual carmakers, including European companies that have joint ventures with Chinese companies. The EU argues that such deals would be consistent with World Trade Organization rules, while Beijing insists on negotiating an umbrella agreement led by a Chinese trade body.
China has threatened to respond to the EV tariffs with tariffs of its own on dairy, pork and brandy. The EU has said it will protect its interests in those cases while opposing linking the investigation to any kind of grand bargain.
Earlier this month, Beijing filed a request with the WTO to hold dispute consultations on EV tariffs. The EU adopted additional fixed tariffs of up to 35% last month and they will remain in place for the next five years without an alternative agreement.
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First publication date: 12 November 2024, 10:00 am IST
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration is asking the company to “re-review its communications” to make sure messages are consistent with user instructions.
The request came in an email sent to the company in May from Gregory Magno, a division chief in the agency's Office of Wrongs Investigation. It was attached to a letter requesting information regarding an investigation into accidents involving Tesla's “Full Self-Driving” system in low visibility conditions. The letter was posted on the agency's website on Friday.
The agency launched the investigation in October after receiving reports of four accidents involving “full self-driving” when Teslas encountered sun glare, fog and wind-blown dust. An Arizona pedestrian was killed in a crash.
Critics, including Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg, have long accused Tesla of using misleading names for its partially automated driving systems, including “full self-driving” and “autopilot,” both of which are considered completely ineffective by owners. It is considered autonomous in a way.
The letters and emails raise further questions about whether full self-driving will be ready for use on public roads without human drivers, as Tesla CEO Elon Musk has predicted. Much of the valuation of Tesla's stock depends on the company deploying a fleet of autonomous robotaxis.
Musk, who has previously promised autonomous vehicles, said the company plans to have autonomous Models Y and 3 running without human drivers next year. He said robotaxis without steering wheels will be available in California and Texas in 2026.
A message was sent Friday seeking comment from Tesla.
In the email, Magno writes that Tesla informed the agency in April about offering a free trial of “Full Self-Driving” and emphasized that an owner's manual, user interface and a YouTube video Tells humans that they have to be cautious. Complete control over their vehicles.
But Magno cited seven posts or reposts from Tesla's account on Musk-owned social media platform X, in which Magno indicated that full self-driving is capable of driving itself.
“Tesla's
The posting may encourage drivers to look at full self-driving, which now has the word “supervised” next to it in Tesla materials, so that the system is seen as a “driver or robotaxi” rather than a partial automation/driver assistance system, Which requires constant attention. and intermittent intervention by the driver,” Magno wrote.
For example, on April 11, Tesla reposted a story about a man who drove 13 miles (13 miles) from his home to an emergency room during a heart attack shortly after the free trial began on April 1. Used full self-driving to travel 21 kilometers). The full self-driving version helped get the owner to the hospital “when he needed immediate medical attention,” the post said.
Additionally, Tesla says on its website that the use of full self-driving and Autopilot without human supervision depends on “achieving reliability” and regulatory approval, Magno wrote. But the statement is accompanied by a video of a man driving on local roads with his hands on his knees, along with the statement, “The person in the driver's seat is there only for legal reasons, he is not driving the car himself.”
In the letter seeking information about driving in low visibility conditions, Magno wrote that the investigation would focus on the system's ability to perform in low visibility conditions caused by “relatively common traffic incidents.”
Drivers cannot be told by the car that they should decide where full self-driving can safely operate or fully understand the system's capabilities, he wrote.
“This investigation will consider the adequacy of the feedback or information provided to drivers by the system to enable them to make real-time decisions when exceeding the system's capacity,” Magno wrote.
The letter asks Tesla to describe all visual or audio warnings that drivers receive and that the system is “unable to detect and respond to any low visibility conditions.”
The agency has given Tesla until December 18 to respond to the letter, but the company may ask for an extension.
That means the investigation is unlikely to be over by the time President-elect Donald Trump takes office in January, and Trump has said he will put Musk in charge of a government efficiency commission to audit agencies and root out fraud. Musk spent at least $119 million on Trump's campaign to get elected, and Trump has spoken out against government regulations.
Auto safety advocates fear that if Musk gains some control over NHTSA, full self-driving and other investigations into Tesla could be derailed.
Musk also floated the idea of helping develop national safety standards for self-driving vehicles.
“Of course the fox wants to build a henhouse,” said Michael Brooks, executive director of the Center for Auto Safety, a nonprofit watchdog group.
He said he could not think of anyone who would agree that a business mogul should have direct involvement in the regulations that affect the mogul's companies.
“This is actually a big problem for democracy,” Brooks said.
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First publication date: 10 November 2024, 10:38 am IST
By: Mainak Das , updated on: 07 November 2024, 10:18 am
The Oben Roar EZ is an electric commuter motorcycle available for booking 2,999.
175 km range promised at ₹89,999, booking starts -175-km-range-booking-open-41730954488006.html” data-item-story-segment = “electric”>
The Oben Roar EZ is an electric commuter motorcycle available for booking for ₹2,999.
175 km range promised for Rs 89,999, booking started”>
The Oben Roar EZ is an electric commuter motorcycle available for booking for ₹2,999.
The Oberon Rohr electric motorcycle has received another edition, now in the guise of the Rozz EZ, which comes as a commuter electric motorcycle. at cost ₹ 89,999 (ex-showroom), the Oberon Roar EZ aims to increase the company's share of the electric motorcycle market in India, where the number of products has been seeing a rise in the past few months. Oben Roar EZ is already available for booking 2,999.
Check out upcoming EV bikes in India.
First publication date: 07 November 2024, 10:18 AM IST
By: HT Auto Desk , updated on: October 21, 2024, 08:22 am
BMW's Neue Klasse design language is not just for electrification and will make its way into internal combustion engine-powered cars as well.
The BMW Vision New Class was showcased at the IAA 2023 in Munich, previewing what future electric cars from the German luxury auto maker will look like. The BMW Vision New Class Concept previews a pure electric sedan that's more practical and simple than the aggressive ID concept previously shown.
BMW's New Class concepts offer a glimpse into the future of the brand's upcoming design philosophy. The BMW New Class sedan, due in 2023, and the new Class However, the auto company has now revealed that this design philosophy will not be limited to electric cars only, but will also make its way into internal combustion engine-powered vehicles.
BMW's design chief, Adrian van Hooydonk, said the automaker wants to make its future internal combustion engine-powered cars more like electric vehicles. Speaking with Top Gear, he said that the new class design language will make its way into ICE vehicles as well.
Also Read: Upcoming Cars in India
More specifically, Hooydonk said that every upcoming BMW car will use cues from the Neue Klasse concepts, regardless of their powertrains. However, ICE vehicles will have specific design elements and proportions to differentiate them from EVs. “The big push with EVs, these technologies and this design language, will shift the entire product portfolio, including our combustion vehicles,” Van Hooydonck continued, “For the customer, it will not be difficult – they will get the all-new modern BMW and They can choose the drivetrain.”
Recommended Watch: This BMW Car Can Talk, Change Colors, and Take You to Virtual Worlds
The BMW design chief further said that the production models derived from the New Class concept cars will look even better than their prototype iterations. He said, “Do you know how close the i3 and i8 were to their concept cars? That's what's going to happen here. If anything I like the production cars better because they're a little more compact.”
BMW will launch five new class cars by 2029
The luxury auto giant has already revealed its plans to introduce at least five new class models by 2029. These will include a new 3 Series, a performance-focused M3 and one or two SUVs. Apart from this, there will also be a sporty high-riding coupe which was spotted testing a few months ago. The automaker plans to start introducing the production version of the New Class cars to the global market in 2025, while a larger number of vehicles will be introduced in 2026 and beyond.
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First publication date: 21 October 2024, 08:22 am IST
By: HT Auto Desk , updated on: 07 October 2024, 07:01 am
Here's your quick check on the biggest developments in the world of automobiles.
Here's your quick check on the biggest developments in the world of automobiles.
The automotive industry is very fast-paced and because of this, it can be a little difficult to keep track of. But HT Auto is here to give quick updates regarding all the major events happening. Here's a recap of all the highlights from Sunday, October 6.
Nissan Magnite facelift reaches India. Variant-wise price and features explained
Nissan India has launched the Magnite facelift in the country at a starting price of Rs. Rs 5.99 lakh (ex-showroom). The mid-life update of the Nissan Magnite brings some cosmetic changes and also introduces some new features to the SUV which is currently the main revenue churner for the Japanese carmaker in India. These updates also come with a new variant nomenclature for the Nissan Magnite sub-compact SUV. Here's the variant-wise pricing and features explained for the new Nissan Magnite facelift.
Also Read: Nissan Magnite Facelift Launched in India. Variant-wise price and features explained
Mahindra BE.05 spotted again. What this tells us about upcoming electric SUVs
Mahindra is aiming to launch a flagship electric vehicle aggressively and a key part of that strategy is the Mahindra BE.05 electric SUV. The upcoming EV has been spotted again during an ad shoot ahead of its public debut. The production version of the Mahindra BE.05 will be quite different and have more practical elements than the concept model previously showcased by the carmaker. Here's a quick look at the key facts about the electric SUV.
Also Read: Mahindra BE.05 spotted in production avatar, what does it tell about the upcoming electric SUV
Bhavish Aggarwal vs Kunal Kamra fight has broken out over Ola scooter.
(Also read: 'Shut up' – Bhavish Aggarwal vs Kunal Kamra fight breaks out over Ola scooter)
The poor condition of Ola Electric Service Center has once again come to light. And as usual, Ola Electric CEO Bhavish Aggarwal has responded dismissively. Stand-up comedian Kunal Kamra took to social media platform X to draw attention towards the poor condition of Ola Electric's service centers and the overall quality of their service. Responding to Kamra, Ola Electric CEO has been at loggerheads with the standup comedian.
Get information about upcoming cars in India, electric vehicles, upcoming bikes in India and cutting-edge technology that is changing the automotive landscape.
First publication date: 07 October 2024, 07:01 am IST
New Delhi. Efforts are being made across the world to reduce dependence on conventional fuels like petrol and diesel, and electric vehicles (EVs) are being considered a better option in this direction. Incentives are being given in many countries to adopt electric vehicles. In India too, the government is providing subsidy on the purchase of electric vehicles, however, their number is still limited in the country.
Meanwhile, Norway has become the first country in the world where the number of electric vehicles has now exceeded that of petrol vehicles. According to the Norwegian Road Federation, out of the 2.8 million private passenger cars registered in the country, 7,54,303 are fully electric, while the number of petrol vehicles is 7,53,905. Registration of diesel vehicles has now reached its lowest. In August 2023, 94.3 percent of the newly registered vehicles were electric vehicles.
How did you achieve this success? Norway has achieved this success by laying the foundation for its efforts many years ago. Since the early 1990s, the government and citizens there have understood that electric vehicles are part of the future. Norway's parliament set a national goal to make all new cars zero-emission (electric or hydrogen) by 2025. By the end of 2022, more than 20 percent of registered cars will be battery electric, and this year the market share of battery electric vehicles was 79.2 percent.
Awareness about electric vehicles The awareness of the government and citizens towards electric vehicles has been remarkable in Norway's population of 5.5 million. The government has implemented several new schemes to promote EVs, making the purchase of electric vehicles affordable and convenient.
Favourable tax policies The biggest change to promote electric vehicles was made in tax policies. The Norwegian government decided to impose higher taxes on high-emission cars and lower taxes on low or zero-emission cars. Under this, electric vehicles up to NOK 500,000 (about Rs 40 lakh) were exempted from VAT, while vehicles priced above this amount were charged 25% VAT only on the additional amount.
other benefits In addition to VAT and import taxes, electric vehicles were also exempted from toll road charges in Norway from 1997 to 2017. In addition, facilities such as free municipal parking and access to bus lanes attracted people to electric vehicles. In this way, Norway has set a successful model for the adoption of electric vehicles, which can become a source of inspiration for other countries.
By: HT Auto Desk | Updated on: 12 Apr 2024, 07:00 AM
Tesla enjoys a massive following the world over and many of its offerings find a place in the list of top most-selling EVs in the world.
File photo of Tesla Model S electric vehicles. (REUTERS)
Even though the growth in sales of electric vehicles (EVs) is slowing down the world over, Tesla can perhaps rely on a majority of its existing buyers to once again buy a car from the brand. At least this is what 87 per cent of current Tesla owners in the US said in a survey conducted by Bloomberg Intelligence.
Tesla enjoys a massive cult following in markets where it has a presence. And while early adopters and affluent buyers are now making way for more gradual – and cautious – EV buyers, many of those who drive a Tesla appear happy with their ride. A brand loyalty of 87 per cent is impressive considering that Lexus finds itself second in the survey results with 68 per cent existing owners saying they would return to the Japanese brand. Toyota is third at 54 per cent.
The survey also found that 81 per cent of potential Tesla owners are those making their way in from a rival EV brand. The survey had 1,000 adult respondents who confirmed they had plans of either buying or leasing a new car within a year. The report observed that 42 per cent of those surveyed were willing to buy a fully-electric vehicle while 23 per cent were willing to purchase a hybrid. “Tesla, GM, and Stellantis’ slew of affordable EV models, set for debut by 2026, may tap more mass-market buyers,” said Steve Man, global lead director for auto & industrial market research at Bloomberg Intelligence and the lead author of the report. “Despite this, the market still has a long way to go to mature, with charging network inadequacy, range anxiety, and extended charging wait times topping the list of concerns for all car buyers.”
Tesla EVs like Model 3 and Model S are extremely popular in markets such as the US and China, and repeatedly find a place in the list of most-sold EVs in the world, as well as most-sold vehicles overall.
By: HT Auto Desk | Updated on: 10 Apr 2024, 07:48 AM
Second generation iteration of Porsche Taycan EV would receive a major upgrade on range and performance front.
Second generation iteration of Porsche Taycan EV would receive a major upgrade on range and performance front.
Porsche updated the Taycan with a facelift just a couple of months back and the German luxury performance car manufacturer has already started working on the next-generation version of the electric sportscar. Australian automotive publication CarSales has reported that the second-generation Taycan EV will come with significant upgrades. Interestingly, despite giving the current electric sportscar substantial tweaks for its mid-life update, the automaker is planning more upgrades for the next-generation Taycan EV.
The report has quoted Taycan Manager of Charging and Energy Systems, Sarah Razavi saying that the new Taycan EV is already being developed. She reportedly admitted that the J1 platform underpinning the Audi E-Tron GT has been pushed to the maximum and hence, Porsche will not use this architecture for the new Taycan. The report stated that the new Taycan would use the already announced SSP Sport platform that will also serve as the underpinning for a large three-row electric SUV.
Also Read : Porsche unwraps Taycan Turbo GT, its quickest and most powerful car ever
Speaking on the project, she said that once the OEM launches one model, it starts working on the next one. “I think we did a great job to really push and squeeze every bit out of the current platform. We’re probably going to see an evolution of the platform,” she further added. Razavi also admitted that the J1 architecture definitely has some limitations and that the goal for a follow-up to today’s Taycan EV will be to achieve greater range.
The facelifted Taycan EV introduced in February 2024 promises up to 677 km range on a single charge, which is a major leap of 175 km or 35 per cent surge in range. However, the automaker is not planning to add a solid-state battery pack to the next-gen Taycan EV, as the technology may not be ready in time. “We’ve been working on it, of course, but giving a timeframe when it’s ready? It’s way too early, too early to confirm. It’s not ready in one or two years. It’s coming but it will take time,” she added.
By: HT Auto Desk | Updated on: 09 Apr 2024, 07:10 AM
Tesla is scouting locations for setting up its manufacturing plant in India.
Tesla is scouting locations for setting up its manufacturing plant in India. (AFP)
The biggest news in the Indian automotive space in the last few days was that Tesla is scouting locations for its India manufacturing facility. Three states of the country, namely Maharashtra, Gujarat and Tamil Nadu are reportedly on the radar of the electric car giant. Telangana government is also said to be in talks with Tesla for the plant. We have also reported earlier that, Tesla has already started production of cars in a limited number for the Indian market at its Gigafactory in Berlin. Also, previously Tesla India Motor and Energy Pvt Ltd leased office space in Pune, marking its first official presence in India.
HT has reported that Tesla’s CEO Elon Musk said that it is going to be a natural progression for his company to provide electric vehicles in India. However, he didn’t reveal which models would be the first to reach Indian shores officially. We can expect the Model 3 and Model Y, two of the automaker’s most popular EV offerings to be introduced to the country initially, while the other models too would be launched here gradually.
Meanwhile, the auto company has pulled the plug on plans for its most affordable car project, which could have been a perfect model for the Indian market. Instead, Tesla now plans to focus and invest in robotaxis. This comes after it was reported that Tesla was searching for a location to set up its factory in the country.
Tesla setting up its manufacturing facility in India could mean the electric car manufacturer will invest somewhere between $2 billion to $3 billion in the country. The Indian manufacturing facility of the OEM will not only cater for the Indian market but the overseas demand as well. What’s more important is that this would be a major leap for the Indian electric vehicle industry as well as the local manufacturing sector.
By: HT Auto Desk | Updated on: 04 Apr 2024, 06:42 AM
Tesla has started production of right-hand drive electric cars in its Giga Berlin plant focusing on the Indian market.
Tesla has started production of right-hand drive electric cars in its Giga Berlin plant focusing on the Indian market. (REUTERS)
Tesla has kicked off production for India-bound electric cars at its Giga Berlin facility, claims an HT report. The electric car manufacturer has started producing right-hand drive cars for the Indian market in its Berlin factory and hopes to have them on the roads of this country by the end of 2024, the report has stated quoting a person familiar with the OEM’s plans. Produced in a small number, these electric cars would be used as test prototypes in the Indian environment. However, the person didn’t reveal which models of the auto company are being produced as the Indian market-spec right-hand driver versions. Expect the EVs like Model 3 and Model Y to reach Indian shores.
Interestingly, this news comes immediately on the heels of the report that Tesla is sending a team to India in the third week of April to scout for locations to set up its manufacturing facility in the country. The OEM is reportedly planning to set up its India plant with an investment of about $3 billion.
The report stated that Tesla is working on its India plan in two dimensions, export and manufacturing dimensions. This comes after the Indian government announced its new EV policy in March this year, in which the customs duties for importing electric cars were reduced to boost electric mobility in India as well as local manufacturing. Also, this policy mandated that the OEMs could enjoy lower customs duty only if they set up manufacturing facilities in India with a certain level of investment. The Indian government linked the policy to a simultaneous manufacturing investment commitment above a certain threshold, within a specified period, and with a strong localisation of the supply chain as well.
In November 2023, it was reported that Tesla was working on its proposed most affordable car, which is likely to be a two-door sedan or SUV, which is specially focused on the Indian market. This affordable EV is meant to debut in Germany and India will be the second market for the car. This electric car is meant to be manufactured in Giga Berlin only. However, with the Indian market in focus, it will be later produced in Tesla’s intended India manufacturing plant as well.
Tesla is reportedly considering Gujarat, Maharashtra and Tamil Nadu for its intended India manufacturing plant site, primarily because these are coastal states with major ports, which will allow Tesla to export the cars produced locally in the country to overseas markets. The report further stated that Tesla will possibly make the largest foreign direct investment in India, including a direct and immediate investment of $3 billion to produce its most affordable new small car. Besides that, there would be a $10 billion commitment from its other partners to support this manufacturing ecosystem in the country, and a cumulative $15 billion in the battery industry ecosystem as well.
By: HT Auto Desk | Updated on: 24 Mar 2024, 17:20 PM
A study by the Global Trade Research Initiative (GTRI) stated that the Indian government’s push for electric vehicles may result in large-scale entry
…
A study by the Global Trade Research Initiative (GTRI) stated that the Indian government’s push for electric vehicles may result in large-scale entry of Chinese companies into the country’s domestic market.
A study by the Global Trade Research Initiative (GTRI) stated that the Indian government’s push for electric vehicles may result in large-scale entry of Chinese companies into the country’s domestic market. (REUTERS)
The Indian government has been pushing hard for electric mobility over the last few years. As part of its commitment towards carbon neutrality, the Indian government has been encouraging the automakers to thrive for electric vehicles, which will help reduce the country’s vehicular emissions. However, this push to boost the domestic manufacturing of electric vehicles may result in large-scale entry of Chinese automakers into the Indian domestic market, claimed a report by the think tank Global Trade Research Initiative (GTRI).
The findings come at a time when the global automobile industry is witnessing a massive rise in Chinese auto companies, which are aggressively thriving to grab the electric vehicle markets across different continents with their affordable offerings, aided by substantial support from the Chinese government. Speaking about the projection, GTRI has said that China’s automotive industry, buoyed by substantial state support, has grown rapidly in electric vehicle technology, making it a major exporter of EVs and related components.
Watch: BYD Seal EV launched in India: Worry for Hyundai Ioniq 5, Kia EV6?
The report also stated that the renewed policy push to make India a hub for electric vehicle manufacturing and efforts of the private sector will result in a sharp increase in dependence on auto component imports from China. Interestingly, India’s auto component imports were $20.3 billion in 2022-23 and about 30 per cent of it came from China. As electric vehicles are getting greater focus in India, the auto component imports from China may increase further because it has a greater hold over the EV components’ global supply chain, the report said.
Currently, China has 75 per cent of the world’s battery production capacity and battery packs account for 40 per cent of the total sticker price of an electric vehicle. China also accounts for more than 50 per cent of global electric vehicle production and exports to markets around the world. While making projections about the Indian electric mobility scenario, the report said that in the next few years, every third electric vehicle and many passenger and commercial vehicles on Indian roads could be those made by Chinese auto companies. These could be directly by the Chinese OEMs or through joint ventures with Indian companies.
The report also stated that entry to the Indian market could provide a major relief to Chinese companies, as their exports to the European Union and the United States are declining owing to anti-subsidy probes and increased trade restrictions over the export of subsidised cars and EV batteries. Interestingly, this projection comes on the heels of the introduction of JSW MG Motor India, a joint venture between China’s SAIC and Indian conglomerate JSW Group. Forming the JV, the two companies announced that under the JSW MG Motor India, there will be an investment of ₹5,000 crore in India to enhance the production capacity locally. Also, the company aims to launch one new car in India every three to six months starting in September 2024.
Q6 e-tron is the first Audi built on the Group’s PPE platform that’s set to underpin future models; India-bound in the next 10-12 months.
Published On Mar 18, 2024 11:30:00 PM
Audi says the Q6 e-tron isn’t just another new car, but the next step in the brand’s transformation into a premium electric mobility company. Indeed, the Q6 e-tron is the very first model to be built on the group’s new platform; the premium platform electric (PPE), which also underpins the Porsche Macan electric. The Q6 e-tron also comes with a new e&e architecture that gets an all-new electronic hardware and software, which is set to filter into the rest of the Audi range, including the internal combustion engine (ICE) models. So yes, the Q6 e-tron is a very important car to examine inside out.
Q6 e-tron is the first Audi on the VW Group’s PPE platform.
The VW group currently has four electric platforms: the MLB EVO platform that underpins the Q8 e-tron; the J1 Performance platform over which the e-tron GT and the Porsche Taycan are built; the MEB platform which the Q4 e-tron and the VW ID family use; and this, the new PPE that’s been designed to underpin EVs right from the midsize to the premium end. So models like this Q6 to sedans like the A6 will be built on it. The platform is also likely to expand and include electric versions of the A8 and the next generation Q8 too. A point to note, the Q6 e-tron is not related to the ICE Q6 on sale in China; that’s an entirely different model built on the MQB EVO platform and sits outside of the typical Audi hierarchy. In fact, Audi says the Q6 e-tron is a sister model to the Q5.
As for the new E3 1.2 e&e architecture, Audi says it has decoupled the hardware and software interdependence, so it should help the company adapt to fast evolving technology. Of course, it brings with it new hardware and software, including some AI tech.
Audi Q6 e-tron exterior style and design
At first look it’s very understated, much like all Audis, but a moment later you’ll soon see some rather striking design elements, and to my eyes it’s a very attractive balance. The grille is the Audi trapezoidal unit but it’s protruding a bit more and is largely sealed off; air flow being managed from the lower bumper area, which has a lot of angular and sharp edges. These elements will differ depending on the trim level.
The LED DRLs can have as many as eight different light signatures.
Unlike the Q4 and Q8 e-trons, the headlights and DRLs are now separate units, which show just how important DRLs have become. They occupy a larger area than the headlights, they sit on top and look really cool with eight different signatures that owners can select; the headlights are the familiar LED Matrix beams.
The profile is typical ICE-like with a long bonnet, and the cabin area stretches back neatly. It has a swept-back look, but even then, it’s very understated. You do see some really flashy elements like a front fender crease line and an extremely prominent, almost horizontal panel over the rear wheels, which Audi calls the Quattro blister. The doors have a contrast cladding below, with smooth but deep curves giving it a nice sensuous flair.
The character line over the rear wheel arch is what Audi calls the Quattro blister.
At the rear, there’s the now-familiar continuous light bar, but the highlight is the new second generation OLED lights, which have six OLED panels and a total of 360 segments. In what Audi says is possibly a world first, the tail-lights have a continuously animated pattern; think twinkling Diwali lights. There’s no real benefit though and if you don’t like them – I don’t – you can opt for different light signatures, some of which have a neat 3D effect.
OLED tail-lights can create warning triangles to alert cars behind of hazards ahead.
Thanks to the new E3 1.2 architecture, these lights can also actively communicate with the outside. So for instance if the Q6 detects some road work signs ahead, it will indicate this to the cars following it by showing small warning triangles in the tail-lights, this also happens when you switch on the hazard lights. Down below there’s a functioning diffuser that helps the Q6 achieve a 0.28 coefficient of drag.
Audi Q6 e-tron interiors, space and comfort
If the outsides are Audi-esque the interiors are pretty much all new. There’s now a single curved pane housing a 11.9-inch IP screen and a 14.5-inch central touchscreen. In an Audi first, it also has a passenger touchscreen. The 10.9-inch screen can also play videos which are obstructed from the driver’s view, the sound though will play over the car’s speakers. There’s an HUD with AR displays and the Audi assistant has a few more clever voice commands like asking it to lower a window half way down.
The curved infotainment and instrument cluster are an Audi first, so is the passenger touchscreen.
The new E3 1.2 architecture is based on the Android operating system, so Android Auto is included. Apple Carplay is also deeply integrated, and the system also brings in some AI bits, which Audi says will keep evolving. So for instance, if the car realises you are struggling with setting the right temperature, it would suggest things like using the cooled seats.
The steering wheel is all new and gone are the buttons, and in its place are touch surfaces. This is the same with the mirror controls; there are indents to guide your fingers around but buttons would have just been better. Also missing is the neat palm rest-integrated drive selector from the Q8 e-tron, and in its place is a simple toggle switch. HVAC controls are also sadly embedded into the touchscreen, but thankfully the familiar Audi media control dial hasn’t been deleted.
Rear seat space is pretty impressive, but some may find the backrest recline slightly upright.
Space inside is pretty impressive, boot space stands at 526 litres and there’s a 64-litre frunk too. For my 5 foot 8 inch frame, front and rear legroom is more than adequate, and headroom is very good too, with about 5 inches to spare. We’ll know more about seat comfort when we spend substantially more time with the car, but first impressions are good. However, some will find the rear backrest recline slightly upright. In terms of features, it’s got all you’d expect like a premium 20-speaker Bang & Olufsen sound system, full ADAS suite, powered tailgate and 360-deg camera.
Boot has a generous 526 litres of space.
Audi Q6 e-tron performance and drive impressions
At launch, the Q6 e-tron will be offered in two AWD (Quattro) versions; Q6 and a sportier SQ6, with a rear-wheel drive model set to follow. The SQ6 puts out 517hp, does the 0-100kph dash in 4.3 seconds and tops out at 230kph, while the Q6 has 387hp, takes 5.9 seconds to 100kph and has a top speed of 210kph. We did drive both, but very briefly and only within the Audi training centre parking lot, so I can’t tell you much, except that acceleration is quick and steady, in typical EV fashion. Through rapid lane changes you can feel some weight, but it’s stable; again, having a low centre of gravity helps. Suspension duties are carried out by the optional adaptive air suspension system. We’ll have a proper drive review by the middle of this year so stay tuned for that.
Acceleration is brisk in typical EV fashion.
One bit that did stand out was the brakes – the blending of the recuperation from the motors and the friction brakes is very good, and pedal feel is uniform and positive. Audi says they have a complex brake blending program that, for the first time, can manage axle-specific blending too. It does work, braking is well controlled and you can’t tell when the friction brakes kick in. The company also says that about 90 percent of everyday braking would be handled by regenerative braking alone.
Audi Q6 battery, charging and range
Both the Q6 and SQ6 get the same 100kWh battery, so range is the only differentiating factor. The Q6 has a claimed WLTP range of 625km, while the SQ6 has a claimed range of 598km. There’s also a smaller 83kWh battery in the pipeline, which is basically the same lithium-ion prismatic unit but with two fewer (10) modules, and it’s this version that’s likely to be brought to India. With up to 270kW at 800 volts, the 100kWh battery can go from 10 to 80 percent in 21 minutes. On board AC charging speed is only 11kW, but an option of 22kW will be offered at a later stage.
Audi Q6 India launch and price
The Q6 e-tron launch is scheduled to take place by the middle of this year in Europe, followed by China. India launch is likely to take place by the end of the year or early next year, and it’s likely to be the two-wheel drive 83kWh battery, which would be priced around the Rs 70 lakh-80 lakh mark. With direct rivals like the iX3 and the Mercedes EQC, both not available in India, the Audi Q6 e-tron would sit between smaller electric SUVs like the Volvo XC40 and the BMW iX1, and larger SUVs like its sibling, the Q8 e-tron, the Mercedes EQE SUV and the BMW iX.
When it arrives in India, it will pretty much sit in a space of its own.
By: Mainak Das | Updated on: 18 Mar 2024, 16:41 PM
Various factors like the gradual improvement of EV charging infrastructure across India, the rising number of electric two-wheelers, and a narrowing p
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Various factors like the gradual improvement of EV charging infrastructure across India, the rising number of electric two-wheelers, and a narrowing price gap between the ICE and electric two-wheelers are fuelling the favourable situation for electric scooters and motorcycles.
Various factors like the gradual improvement of EV charging infrastructure across India, the rising number of electric two-wheelers, and a narrowing price gap between the ICE and electric two-wheelers are fuelling the favourable situation for electric scooters and motorcycles.
Electric vehicles are finding an increasing level of footprint in India over the last few years. In the last few years, electric two-wheelers have taken the baton of spearheading the EV adoption pace in the country from electric three-wheelers. Also, this shift has democratised the adoption of electric vehicle ownership in the country.
An estimate shows that an electric scooter can offer the rider a saving of about ₹16,200 every year compared to an equivalent internal combustion engine (ICE) powered scooter if the daily commuting distance is 30 kilometres, per unit electricity charge is ₹10 and a litre of petrol costs ₹100. With the FAME 2 subsidy benefits are about to conclude at the end of this month, the newly launched Electric Mobility Promotion Scheme (EMPS) 2024 brings another opportunity for two-wheeler buyers to avail the benefit of purchasing an electric scooter or electric motorcycle with lowered acquisition cost.
The Ministry of Heavy Industries has launched the EMPS 2024, which allocates a total amount of ₹333.39 crore for electric two-wheelers. The scheme also states that a total of 333,387 electric scooters will receive the benefit of ₹10,000 each. Under the EMPS 2024, the buyers of electric two-wheelers will receive this benefit for four months, spanning between April 1 and July 31 this year.
Watch: Ather 450S review: Worthy of its price tag?
Adding further advantage points for the consumers are factors like the rapidly improving electric vehicle charging infrastructure across India, the rising number of products, and the narrowing price gap between the ICE and electric scooters.
EV charging infrastructure
While electric cars require large charging space and bigger infrastructure, electric two-wheelers can use smaller space. This has propelled the EV charging infra developers to set up charging points at various spaces across the country. The EV manufacturers too are coming up at a large number with their relevant solutions. Besides this, electric two-wheelers can be easily charged using home charging solutions. Apart from that, the ease of taking out the battery from the vehicle and charging it somewhere is available with electric two-wheelers. In the last few years, EV charging infrastructure across India has improved significantly, which is one reason to make it an appropriate time for buying an electric scooter or motorcycle, as range anxiety is addressed at large.
Watch: Ola S1 Pro electric scooter: First impressions
Rising number of products
In the last few years, the number of electric vehicle launches, especially in the two-wheeler segment has increased drastically. While the EV startups have been leading the pack, the legacy two-wheeler manufacturers too have shifted their attention to this space. This is why, besides the EV startups like Ather Energy and Ola Electric, Hero MotoCorp, TVS Motor Company, and Bajaj Auto have brought their respective offerings into the space.
Narrowing price gap between ICE and electric two-wheelers
The price gap between conventional petrol engine-powered and electric two-wheelers is narrowing gradually. The EV startups have been offering discounts on their products, while schemes such as FAME and EMPS too are reducing the acquisition costs for the buyers. Additionally, the sky-high cost of petrol and rising maintenance costs along with the rising cost of acquisition for the ICE two-wheelers are making the situation favourable for electric two-wheelers.
By: HT Auto Desk | Updated on: 17 Mar 2024, 14:20 PM
Hyundai Creta EV is expected to share a host of design elements with the ICE variant of the midsize SUV.
Hyundai Creta EV is expected to share a host of design elements with the ICE variant of the midsize SUV. (Image: Autospy)
Hyundai Creta EV has been in discussions among Indian electric vehicle enthusiasts even before the updated version of the mid-size SUV entered the market in January this year. Now, the Creta EV has been spotted in the wild in South Korea in a fresh spy shot image. A fully camouflaged test mule of the Hyundai Creta EV has been spied, giving us a clue about the possible design elements of the electric SUV.
The latest spy shot of the upcoming HyundaiCreta EV shows the SUV gets an identical LED daytime running light (DRL) spanning the entire width of the front profile. Also, it looks like the car will have similar styling elements including LED projector headlamps as the ICE variant of the Creta, which is currently on sale in India. However, being an electric car, it would feature a closed panel instead of a conventional radiator grille visible in the newly launched Creta facelift. The spyshot also reveals the electric Creta gets 17-inch aero-designed alloy wheels, which is specifically meant for the EV and comes as the most distinctive change compared to the ICE variant.
Watch: Hyundai Creta facelift review: Major step-up for the SUV king
The Hyundai Creta EV is expected to come with repositioned brand log, front-fender mounted charging port. Also, there will be a smoothened bumper with tweaked radiator grille. Expect the electric SUV to feature design tweaks at side and rear profile as well.
Speaking about features, the Hyundai Creta EV is expected to come equipped with a large touchscreen infotainment system with EV-based user interface, an all-digital instrument cluster with new graphics, revamped centre console. Also, there would be a 360 degree surround camera and Level 2 ADAS suite. The front camera is visible at the centre of the nose section at front profile.
The South Korean automaker is tightlipped about the specifications of the upcoming electric car. However, expect it to come offering about 450 kilometre range on a single charge thanks to 55-60 kWh battery pack.
Single motor variant of the XC40 Recharge has a power output of 238hp, WLTP range of 475km.
Volvo has launched a new variant of the XC40 Recharge with a single motor mounted to the rear axle. Officially called the E60, the variant is dubbed the ‘Plus’ on the Volvo India website and is priced at Rs 54.95 lakh, ex-showroom, India. It is positioned below the dual-motor, AWD XC40 Recharge E80 (Ultimate) that’s priced at Rs 57.9 lakh, ex-showroom, India.
Equipped with a 69kWh lithium-ion battery
0-100kph in 7.5 seconds
Misses out on Harman Kardon system and 360-deg camera
Volvo XC40 Recharge E60 single motor features
The E60 single-motor variant loses out on some features compared to the dual-motor model such as Pixel LED headlamps, fog lamps, 360-deg camera and a Harman Kardon sound system. That being said, the E60 variant gets features such as an 8-speaker sound system, two-zone climate control, a 12-inch digital driver’s display, a 9-inch infotainment unit, TPMS, park assist, 19-inch alloy wheels, panoramic sunroof, powered front seats and wireless phone charging to name a few.
However, being a Volvo, it continues to get a raft of safety features like 7 airbags and an ADAS suite that includes lane keep assist, adaptive cruise control, cross-traffic alerts and rear collision warning.
Volvo XC40 Recharge E60 single motor powertrain, battery and range
The Volvo XC40 Recharge E60’s power output stands at 238hp and 420Nm, which allows the SUV to complete the 0-100kph sprint in 7.3 seconds and reach a limited top speed of 180kph. The single motor variant gets a 69kWh Lithium-ion battery pack that has a WLTP range of 475km.
Volvo XC40 Recharge E60 single motor rivals
The Volvo XC40 Recharge E60 single motor rivals other RWD EVs such as the recently launched BYD Seal Dynamic (Rs 41 lakh) and Premium (Rs 45.55 lakh), Hyundai Ioniq 5 (Rs 45.95 lakh) and the Kia EV6 GT Line (Rs 60.95 lakh).
Mercedes EQE SUV, EQB SUV, EQS sedan, Mercedes India sales
Even as Mercedes dials back its electrification plans globally, its Region Overseas head believes India should stay on the EV track.
Mercedes-Benz announced last month that it would continue to sell combustion-engined cars – even in some developed markets – well into the 2030’s, contrary to its plan of transitioning into an all-electric brand by 2030 ‘wherever market conditions allow’.
However, while the company may be dialling back its EV plans elsewhere, it believes that electrification should stay on the fast track in India. Sagree Sardien, head of Region Overseas, Mercedes-Benz Cars, says, “For the Indian market, I think the better strategy would be to go electric as opposed to go to plug-in hybrids.”
Mercedes-Benz sells just one plug-in hybrid model in India, the AMG GT 4-door coupe. But it has three electric models – the EQS, the EQB, and the EQE SUVs – with plans to introduce three more this year.
‘Indian market committed to EVs’
Sardien explained that she sees India as a market committed to EVs and thus advises that the country “takes the journey faster to battery electric vehicles”. Sardien is also confident that the EV market will continue to grow for the brand. “Whilst we are at 4 percent EV penetration in India, we anticipate double-digit penetration going forward,” Sardien said. For reference, globally, Mercedes EVs account for 19 percent of its total sales.
Mercedes India had record sales in 2023 selling 17,408 units, which is close to its current 20,000 production capacity limit. However, Sardien says the company is ready to cater to any changes in demand patterns and volume. “The plant in Pune has adequate capacity to be able to handle 20,000. If the market demand changes, of course, we have the flexibility, scalability and speed to adapt. So, if for some reason the Indian market accelerates faster than anticipated, we can scale up equally.” Currently, the EQB and EQE SUVs are both brought in as CBUs, whereas the EQS is assembled locally.
By: HT Auto Desk | Updated on: 29 Feb 2024, 15:07 PM
In the last few years, from Sony to Huawei, Apple to Xiaomi; traditional technology giants have been making major headlines with their automotive vent
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In the last few years, from Sony to Huawei, Apple to Xiaomi; traditional technology giants have been making major headlines with their automotive ventures throwing challenges to conventional auto OEMs. What’s the current status of such tech companies’ automotive projects?
In the last few years, from Sony to Huawei, Apple to Xiaomi; traditional technology giants have been making major headlines with their automotive ventures throwing challenges to conventional auto OEMs.
The automobile industry around the world is going through a rapid and multi-dimensional transformation over the last few years. With the advent of new technologies including connectivity, electric propulsion technology, autonomous driving etc, the industry is witnessing a lot of changes. One such change is the emergence of conventional technology companies as automakers.
In the industry’s massive shift to electric vehicles, legacy automakers and mobility startups are not the only ones trying their luck with vehicles powered by electric propulsion systems. Several global technology companies have been bringing their respective electric vehicles. In the last few years, from Sony to Huawei, Apple to Xiaomi – traditional technology giants have made major headlines with their automotive ventures.
The technology giants’ association with the mobility industry is nothing new. However, to date, the technology companies used to be suppliers for auto manufacturers. But, in the last couple of years, they have evolved drastically and to become new-age mobility companies as well as automobile manufacturers.
However, things have not been a cakewalk for these tech giants in their desired path in the automotive world. Here is the status report about the present scenario of these technology companies’ automotive projects.
Apple
Despite promising a lot through its Project Titan, Apple met little success and the project finally reached a make-or-break point recently due to rising costs and delays. This finally compelled the company to call off its fully autonomous electric car project after a decade since it started sometime in 2014, which was dubbed as one of the most ambitious projects in the history of the tech giant known for its products like iPhone, iPad and Macbook.
Xiaomi
While a tech company on the east side of the Pacific Ocean failed to materialise its dream of making an autonomous electric car, on the west side of the ocean, Chinese tech giant Xiaomi stunned the world with its first EV SU7. A suave all-electric sedan, the Xiaomi SU7 was showcased in the flesh at the Mobile World Congress 2024 in Barcelona. Xiaomi announced the development of the SU7 in 2023. It gets power from a 101 kWh battery pack capable of providing more than 800 kilometres of range on a single charge, significantly higher than the majority of EVs currently on sale.
Sony
Sony joined hands with Honda to make its dream of building an electric car true. Christened Afeela, the tech brand has already showcased a real prototype at the CES 2023. which will spawn the production model in 2026. Before being renamed Afeela, the electric sedan was previously christened Vision S. Sony has claimed that this upcoming EV will not only be a car but will act as a testbed for a wide range of futuristic advanced technologies including autonomous driving and other digital systems.
Huawei
Another Chinese tech giant Huawei too has shown its seriousness about smart electric cars. The company had set up an EV brand called Aito in 2021 in association with Seres Group. Under the Aito brand, already three electric cars have been launched: M5, M7 and M9; while a fourth model M8 is under development. Besides that, Huawei also rolled out two new vehicles in China, including its first electric sedan, the Luxeed S7, which is designed to take on Tesla models. Just a few weeks ago, Huawei set up a separate smart car unit, in another stride forward in the Chinese tech giant’s automotive ambitions.
By: HT Auto Desk | Updated on: 28 Feb 2024, 16:49 PM
Hyundai plans to invest ₹32,000 crore for expansion of car and SUV platforms including electric vehicle range and charging infrastructure development
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Hyundai plans to invest ₹32,000 crore for expansion of car and SUV platforms including electric vehicle range and charging infrastructure development.
Hyundai plans to invest ₹32,000 crore for expansion of car and SUV platforms including electric vehicle range and charging infrastructure development.
Hyundai Motor India aims to reach the RE100 benchmark by 2025. To achieve this target, the South Korean auto giant aims to use 100 per cent renewable energy for its operations in India. The carmaker has announced in an official release that it has been strategically purchasing green electricity from the Indian Energy Exchange to increase its RE portfolio of 64 per cent. The OEM also claimed that it has conserved energy equivalent to about 19,200 tonnes of oil through key energy management projects till now in India.
Hyundai also claimed that it has achieved 80 per cent water neutrality by utilising recycled RO water and rainwater from harvesting ponds with a capacity of 350,000 tonnes. Besides that, the auto OEM claimed to have reduced hazardous waste by 19.4 per cent and non-hazardous waste by 14.3 per cent over the last five years.
The development and launch of electric vehicles and the setting up of EV charging infrastructure are also a key part of the brand’s strategy to reach carbon neutrality. For this, the OEM has announced to invest more than ₹32,000 crores in the next 10 years. This investment will be made for the expansion of car and SUV platforms including electric vehicle range and charging infrastructure development.
Speaking on Hyundai’s aim to reach the RE100 benchmark, Gopala Krishnan CS, Chief Manufacturing Officer at HMIL said that the automaker’s operations are driven by a strong sense of responsibility towards the environment and communities. “Our operations are driven by a strong sense of responsibility towards the environment and our communities. We view this proactive role as an opportunity to contribute to long-term sustainable development goals. Our sustainability initiatives are focused towards carbon neutrality and energy transition, circularity, clean tech products and services, operational eco-efficiency, and natural capital conservation. Our ‘Integrated Solutions to Climate Change’ initiative aims for carbon neutrality by 2045, with a sustainable operating system for future generations,” he added.
By: HT Auto Desk | Updated on: 25 Feb 2024, 15:57 PM
Tata Motors’ key official Shailesh Chandra has hinted at impending price hikes for passenger vehicles in the coming months.
Tata Motors’ key official Shailesh Chandra has hinted at impending price hikes for passenger vehicles in the coming months.
Despite the rapidly rising demand for personal mobility and SUV-mania across the country, India’s passenger vehicle segment is likely to see less than five per cent growth in the next financial year, forecasted Tata Motors. Tata Motors Passenger Vehicles Managing Director Shailesh Chandra stated that India’s domestic passenger vehicle industry is likely to see moderate to less growth in the next fiscal starting in April 2024. However, the Tata Motors official believes electric vehicle sales in the country will grow despite the slow pace of EV charging infrastructure development.
Passenger vehicles to see sluggish growth
Chandra said that in FY23, the industry witnessed 25 per cent growth in the passenger vehicle segment, which is expected to become moderate in this financial year to about eight per cent. The Tata Motors official said that the industry is currently witnessing a high base effect and in the next financial year, there will be be slightly challenging situation for the segment. This challenging situation would result in the industry recording less than a five per cent growth rate in the next financial year, claimed Chandra during an analyst call.
Watch: 2023 Tata Safari review: Family SUV with bachelor spirit?
Passenger vehicles likely to be pricier
In the last few months, automakers in India have announced price hikes for their respective passenger vehicle models citing increasing production costs due to factors such as surging raw material costs, inflation etc. Chandra hinted that there would be more such price hikes in the next financial year, which would pose challenges to the growth of passenger vehicles.
Citing various challenges for the growth of passenger vehicles in India, Chandra noted that while commodity prices have been stable in the past quarter or so, there is a risk that prices may go up going forward. He hinted that costs of crucial raw materials are going up, which may impact the prices of passenger vehicles negatively in the coming months.
Watch: 2023 Tata Nexon EV facelift first drive review: Best-seller gets even better?
Electric vehicles to continue growing
Tata Motors is spearheading the democratisation of electric vehicles in India’s passenger vehicles segment. The homegrown OEM is leading the Indian electric car segment with more than 80 per cent market share. In the last few years, the segment has witnessed rapid growth thanks to various factors such as rising costs of petrol and diesel, narrowing price gap between electric and fossil fuel vehicles, availability of various government subsidies and incentives for EVs, tightening emission norms, growing awareness about environmental pollution and vehicular emissions’ impact on that, the launch of new electric cars etc. Tata Motors believes this growth momentum will continue in the next financial year as well.
Chandra said that in 2023, while the overall passenger vehicle industry grew eight per cent on a year-on-year basis compared to 2022, electric vehicle sales surged by 95-100 per cent YoY compared to the previous year. “I think this trend is likely to continue. So companies with stronger portfolios in CNG and EVs will grow,” Chandra said.
Watch: Tata Altroz iCNG: First Drive Review
Interestingly, this growth projection comes despite the sluggish pace of growth for the electric vehicle charging infrastructure, which is considered a key factor for the growth of electric vehicle sales. “As far as EVs are concerned, I think the biggest challenge here is the pace at which the charging infra is growing. It is lagging behind the pace at which the EV adoption is happening,” Chandra noted further adding, “Given that the charging infra is crucial to the growth and expansion of EV market, we have gone for an open collaboration approach with all charge point operators as well as the oil marketing companies who are focusing on expansion of charging infra.”
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