BMW iX1 EV launched in India at ₹66.90 lakh, promises up to 440 km range

BMW iX1 EV launched in India at ₹66.90 lakh, promises up to 440 km range

by with No Comment Electric vehicles cars

The all-new BMW iX1 comes with the automaker’s xDrive all-wheel drive technology and promises up to 440 km range on a single charge. Powered by the automaker’s fifth-generation eDrive technology, the iX1 also promises instant acceleration of 0-100 kmph in 5.6 seconds. Powering the EV is a 66.4 kWh battery pack paired with dual electric motors, fitted to each axle and channelling power to all four wheels through an AWD. The electric luxury SUV claims to be capable of running at a top speed of 180 kmph. The electric powerplant onboard the iX1 churns out 308 bhp peak power and 494 Nm of maximum torque.

Watch: 2023 BMW iX1 electric SUV: First Look

The all-new BMW iX1 comes with fast charging technology. Using a 130 kW DC fast charger its battery pack can be topped up from 10 per cent to 80 per cent in 20 minutes. BMW claims the battery pack can ensure a 120-kilometre range with 10 minutes charge using the fast charger. An 11 kW AC charger tops up the battery pack fully in about 6.3 hours.

The BMW iX1 comes with a standard two-year warranty for unlimited kilometres. Also, the battery pack is covered by an eight-year or up to 160,000 kilometres warranty.

The electric luxury SUV comes with a bold and muscular design, in line with BMW’s contemporary styling philosophy. An almost square BMW kidney grille with a closed glossy black panel, and distinct ‘i’ identification make it different from the conventional fuel-powered X1. Other design elements include segment-first adaptive LED headlights, square wheel arches, 18-inch M light alloy wheels, a large surface diffuser at the back and L-shaped LED taillights. The BMW iX1 is available in Alpine White non-metallic paint and Space Silver, Black Sapphire and Storm Bay metallic colour options.

Inside the cabin, the choice of upholstery includes Veganza Perforated Mocha and Veganza Perforated Oyster. The first thing that catches attention inside the cabin is the fully digital BMW curved display. The automaker has used M Sport leather on the steering wheel, while the blue ring finisher logo also adds distinctiveness. It sports ambient lighting, dual-zone AC, a 12-speaker audio system, and multiple massage options for the front seats.

First Published Date: 28 Sep 2023, 13:29 PM IST


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Lexus looks to Tesla for learning about electric car manufacturing

Lexus looks to Tesla for learning about electric car manufacturing

by with No Comment Electric vehicles cars

Lexus is benchmarking Tesla for developing its own next-generation electric cars, reported Automotive News. Lexus International President Takashi Watanabe has reportedly said that the Japanese luxury car brand owned by Toyota humbly looks at and learns from Tesla for its own electric cars, as the auto company aims to transform itself as a major EV player later in this decade.

By: HT Auto Desk
| Updated on: 22 Sep 2023, 13:45 PM

Lexus plans to make its future electric cars using an altered production technique.

Lexus aims to launch a massive EV offensive with multiple electric cars scheduled to go on sale in 2026. However, the task is not easy considering the fact that there are already several players in both the mass-market segment and the luxury segment as well. Watanabe reportedly finds it a difficult mission to steer the brand through a massive EV overhaul.

Also Read : Lexus open to idea of developing an all-electric pick-up truck in future

Lexus is slated to preview its next-generation electric car that will launch in 2026 through a concept debuting at the Japan Mobility Show next month, claimed the report. The next-generation EV will be built on a modular architecture as the automaker has said. It will come with significantly altered production methods and a completely re-imagined software platform as well. “We have also prioritized vehicle design to embody the essence of Lexus,” he reportedly said while also adding that the auto company plans to make it easier to build and simply as much as possible. “One of our first steps will be modifying and rethinking our production methods,” he said.

With the altered production method, Lexus aims to drive down production costs by commoditizing the hardware as much as possible. With this strategy, it is reportedly aiming to compete with global EV leader Tesla and BYD. However, despite Tesla being its possible competitor, Watanabe didn’t shy away from admitting that Lexus has a lot to learn from the US electric car major.

Interestingly, Toyota at one point remained a key partner of Tesla. It would interesting to see if Lexus implements that learning into its own EV projects. The report claims the production technique is being developed by Toyota, from which Lexus will benefit. The production method will include giga-casting hat will greatly reduce the number of components. Also, the cars will reportedly drive themselves through assembly lines.

First Published Date: 22 Sep 2023, 13:45 PM IST


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Mercedes-Benz accused of using emission cheating devices, likely to recall cars

Mercedes-Benz accused of using emission cheating devices, likely to recall cars

by with No Comment car insurance online

The Dieselgate saga seems to be continuing eight years after the scandal came under scanner in September 2015. What was started by Volkswagen and other subsidiaries of the Geerman auto giant, is being continued by other brands too. The latest addition to the list is the Mercedes-Benz, which has been accused of using emission cheating devices in its Euro 6 emission standard-compliant cars in its home country, reported Deutsche Umwelthilfe. The German luxury car giant is likely to recall the affected cars soon to fix the issue, hinted the report.

By: HT Auto Desk
| Updated on: 17 Sep 2023, 12:21 PM

The accusation of Mercedes-Benz using emission cheating devices in its Euro 6 compliant cars comes as the latest addition in the continuing Dieselgate saga. (REUTERS)

Deutsche Umwelthilfe (DUH), a non-profit environmental and consumer protection organization in Germany has revealed that a leaked letter from the German Federal Motor Transport Authority has shown that Mercedes-Benz was in the agency’s crosshairs earlier this year. It was reportedly accused of using emission cheating devices to bypass the latest stringent Euro 6 emission standards.

Also Read : Mercedes loses EU suit over ‘Defeat Device’ system in cars

Reuters has reported that there were three software-based emission cheating devices found on the OM642 diesel engine powering the Mercedes-Benz E350 BlueTec. Two of the devices reportedly altered the engine operation based on certain temperature parameters. The agency reportedly told the luxury car brand to fix the issue or the cars would be banned from operating. The report further stated that the automaker has claimed that it already developed and deployed the proper software update to address the issue.

This is not the first time Mercedes-Benz has been accused of using emission-cheating software or devices in its cars. Earlier in November 2021, the auto manufacturer was accused of using eight emission-cheating devices in its E-Class models’ diesel engines that came complying with the Euro 6 emission standards. The OM642 diesel engine was under the spotlight at that time as well. The automaker was accused of using the defeat device that reduced the amount of AdBlue injected to neutralize harmful nitrogen oxides.

First Published Date: 17 Sep 2023, 12:21 PM IST


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Volvo C40 Recharge launched in India at ₹61.25 lakh

Volvo C40 Recharge launched in India at ₹61.25 lakh

by with No Comment Electric vehicles cars

Volvo India on Monday launched the much-awaited C40 Recharge at ₹61.25 lakh (introductory, ex-showroom). It comes as the second all-electric car in the country from the Swedish luxury car brand after the XC40 Recharge. The Volvo C40 Recharge comes challenging the rivals like Kia EV6 and Hyundai Ioniq 5 among others. Besides the rivals from other brands, the new EV is expected to dent the sales numbers of its sibling XC40 Recharge as well. Also, this EV comes strengthening the automaker’s position in the Indian electric car market further, where several other players have been introducing their respective products.

Volvo India unveiled the electric car earlier this year on June 14, revealing the design, features and specifications of the C40 Recharge. However, pricing was the mystery that the automaker uncovered today. Delivery of the Volvo C40 Recharge is slated to commence in early September this year. Volvo C40 Recharge is already available in multiple global markets and India now has been added to that list.

By: Mainak Das
| Updated on: 04 Sep 2023, 21:01 PM

The C40 Recharge is the first Volvo EV which has been developed from the ground up.

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Watch: Volvo C40 Recharge review: Packs a punch with more range

The Volvo C40 Recharge comes carrying signature Volvo design elements. It gets the signature Thor’s Hammer LED headlamps with integrated LED daytime running lights. Being an EV, it gets the closed panel look instead of a conventional front grille. The sleek LED fog lamps and black air intake at the lower bumper are similar to the Volvo XC40 Recharge. Moving to the side profile, the car looks distinctive compared to the XC40 Recharge thanks to its coupe-like sloping roofline instead of the XC40 Recharge’s boxy appearance. The alloy wheels look stylish and sporty, while at the back, the vertically oriented sleek LED taillights enhance the EV’s overall visual appearance.

Volvo C40 Recharge is available in eight different colour options: Black Stone, Fusion Red, Thunder Grey, Fjord Blue, Silver Down and Crystal White, Sage Green, and Onyx Black. Dimensionally, the EV measures 4,440 mm in length, 1,910 mm in width, and 1,591 mm in height.

Inside, the Volvo C40 Recharge packs a nine-inch touchscreen infotainment system complemented by a 12.3-inch digital driver’s display. Other features include heated and ventilated front seats, vegan interiors, dual-zone automatic climate control, a panoramic sunroof, a 360-degree camera, a wireless charger, and an ADAS safety suite.

The India-spec Volvo C40 Recharge EV comes equipped with twin electric motors paired with a 78 kWh lithium-ion battery pack and an AWD drivetrain. The dual electric motors are capable of generating 402 bhp of peak power and 660 Nm of maximum torque. The EV is capable of accelerating 0-100 kmph in 4.7 seconds at a top speed of 180 kmph.

Globally, the EV is available in both rear-wheel drive and all-wheel drive options. The India-spec model promises to run a 530 km range on a single charge. The new Volvo EV is capable of getting topped up from 10 per cent to 80 per cent in 27 minutes using a DC fast charger. Using an 11 kW level 2 charger, the EV takes eight hours to be charged fully.

First Published Date: 04 Sep 2023, 21:01 PM IST


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BMW X5 Protection VR6 breaks cover as an armour-plated 515 bhp SUV

BMW X5 Protection VR6 breaks cover as an armour-plated 515 bhp SUV

by with No Comment car insurance online

After introducing the BMW 7 Series Protection and i7 Protection a few weeks ago, the German luxury car brand has now introduced the X5 Protection, which is based on the revised iteration of the SUV. The BMW X5 Protection VR6 comes as an armour-plated bulletproof luxury SUV. The car will be showcased in the flesh at the upcoming Munich Motor Show next month.

By: HT Auto Desk
| Updated on: 30 Aug 2023, 16:40 PM

BMW X5 Protection VR6 comes on the heels of the introduction of BMW 7 Series Protection and i7 Protection.

Despite being an armour-plated SUV, the BMW X5 Protection VR6 is not easily distinguishable from other BMW X5 models. As the automaker states, stealth is the first line of defence for this car. It sports twin M bars in the front kidney grille, high-gloss black M mirror caps, BMW Individual roof rails in high-gloss Shadow Line, and the twin pairs of exhaust pipes typical of the M exhaust system.

Also Read : BMW X5 facelift launched in India, starts at ₹93.90 lakh

Watch: 2023 BMW X7 SUV breaks cover: First Look

Beneath the familiar skin, the SUV features moulded high-strength steel plates shaped to fit the body in areas like doors, side frames, roof and bulkhead. The car also gets an armoured trunk divider and an aluminium underbody shrapnel shield. The fuel tank comes with a special casing that can seal punctures to prevent leaks in case a bullet or shrapnel penetrates the tank. The SUV meets VPAM ballistics requirements. However, customers can further enhance the protection level of the SUV by choosing optional underbody armour and additional roof armour.

Powering the BMW X5 Protection is the same 4.4-litre twin-turbocharged V8 engine that powers the standard BMW X5 M60i xDrive. This engine is paired with a 48-volt mild-hybrid system to generate 515 bhp peak power and 750 Nm of maximum torque. The car brand has not disclosed the weight of the X5 Protection but the armour plates have certain added extra weight on it, impacting the performance. It can sprint 0-100 kmph in 5.9 seconds, which is a significant drop from the M60i’s 4.2 seconds timing. However, this matches the previous armoured X5’s performance. The SUV’s suspension and braking system too have been re-tuned to handle the additional weight.

First Published Date: 30 Aug 2023, 16:40 PM IST


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Tesla EV bashes through a wall and plunges into a swimming pool

Tesla EV bashes through a wall and plunges into a swimming pool

by with No Comment Electric vehicles cars

Over the last few years, several Tesla electric cars have made headlines for reasons that were unexpected and at times, unpleasant. The latest addition to the list of antics performed by Tesla car owners is when an EV bashed through a wall and plunged into a swimming pool. The incident took place in Arizona when a homeowner found the Tesla barreled through his house’s concrete wall and took a dive in the backyard pool, reported AZFamily.

By: HT Auto Desk
| Updated on: 06 Aug 2023, 15:10 PM

It is not confirmed if the Tesla EV plunged into the pool because of a driver’s error or some technical glitch. (Image: Youtube/AZFamily)

The report says that despite such a crash into the swimming pool, the Tesla EV’s driver survived without any injury. However, the same can’t be said of the car or the yard it crashed into. The report has further revealed that the police are still searching for the cause of the crash. It is not known if the mishap took place because of the driver’s error or some technical glitch in the car.

Also Read : Tesla has to copy Apple to set up business in India. Here’s what it means

The affected homeowner, Joe Papineau, said that he thought that he’d heard an explosion. “I was sleeping in my bed when all of a sudden I hear this huge crash and big explosion,” he said to the local news station. Papineau also said he believes that the Tesla car was passing through the area when another car pulled out in front of him. In a desperate attempt to avoid the accident, the Tesla driver made an evasive manoeuvre but couldn’t recover in time to avoid crashing into the wall and ending in the pool.

The video that emerged online shows the Tesla car has received extensive damage including a demolished windshield. Its front profile got damaged severely. However, the driver reportedly escaped with only minor injuries. There was no other passenger in the car during the time of the accident, the report has further revealed.

First Published Date: 06 Aug 2023, 15:10 PM IST


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BMW pulls plug on the 6 Series Gran Turismo, will be officially dead by November

BMW pulls plug on the 6 Series Gran Turismo, will be officially dead by November

by with No Comment car insurance online

BMW 6 Series Gran Turismo is all set to meet the end of the road later this year, as the German luxury car brand is ready to pull the plug on this model by November 2023. Launched in 2017, the BMW 6 Series Gran Turismo has never been a market success for the automaker. BMW updated the 6 Series Gran Turismo back in 2021 and introduced an electrified powertrain to the car. The car has not been able to register many sales to private customers and has mostly been used as an airport and hotel shuttle in some European countries, which prompted the company to discontinue this model, reports BimmerToday.

By: HT Auto Desk
| Updated on: 06 Aug 2023, 11:44 AM

BMW 6 Series Gran Turismo will go out of sale by November 2023.

While the report of the BMW 6 Series Gran Turismo has been leaked unofficially, the automaker remains tight-lipped about the decision. The report claims that the BMW 6 Series Gran Turismo will remain in production for a few more months before the 6 Series moniker is retired. The car brand has not seen satisfactory demand for the car. The report claims that it sold only 509 units in Germany in 2022, which marks an absurdly low number. Halfway through 2023, the 6 Series GT has sold just 237 units in the company’s home country, becoming the worst performer of the automaker.

Also Read : BMW to locally produce its electric vehicles in India soon

BMW sells the 6 Series Gran Turismo in India as well. Powered by a diesel engine, the car is available at a starting price of ₹72.50 lakh (ex-showroom), in India. As of now, the car is available on the German auto giant’s website.

Meanwhile, BMW India has registered its best-ever half-year and quarterly sales during January-June and April-June periods this year, respectively. The automaker claimed that BMW and Mini together have sold 5,867 cars combined between January and June this year. The company also said that its flagship models witnessed the highest demand.

First Published Date: 06 Aug 2023, 11:44 AM IST


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Tata’s Jaguar aims to bounce back from mediocrity with a shock design. Know more

Tata’s Jaguar aims to bounce back from mediocrity with a shock design. Know more

by with No Comment car insurance online

Tata Motors-owned British luxury car brand Jaguar aims to bounce back from mediocrity. To achieve that target, the automaker plans to tap rich American buyers with polarizing designs. Auto News has reported that the automaker is targeting 20 million millionaires in the US who could be its potential customers in an attempt to salvage the brand. Jaguar Land Rover CEO Adrian Mardell believes that chasing volume has impacted the brand negatively and in a revised strategy, the company aims to change that situation.

The report has quoted Mardell saying that Jaguar will aim for a lower volume and higher price positioning, which will be the right thing to do for the company. This would make the Jaguar cars more elusively premium, raising the bar. He pointed to the fact that during the 1990s, Jaguar was highly successful in the North American market, when its cars were more expensive and targeted a wealthier demographic than the brand has been chasing for the last 20 years.

(Also read: JLR on track to become all-electric luxury brand; new car launches slated for 2025: N Chandrasekaran)

The JLR chief further conceded that the automaker’s strategy to chase volume during the previous two decades, first under Ford and then Tata Motors, has resulted in it losing touch with the wealthy car buyer community. He also admitted that it is a lot of work to build that brand equity. In order to bring back the luxury glory to the brand, Jaguar is focusing on fearless designs, which would be conceived to shock and reengage wealthy buyers.

The auto company’s design chief Gerry McGovern said that the brand will not worry about being loved by everybody. “What we will not worry about is being loved by everybody, because that is the kiss of death,” he said further adding that this is what has put Jaguar in the situation it is in today, which is with no equity whatsoever.


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