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Tag: auto

  • Ducati Hypermotard 698 Mono To Launch In India Soon? Check What’s Revealed | Auto News

    Ducati India has recently teased the Hypermotard 698 Mono on its social media channels, signalling an upcoming launch. This model marks Ducati’s return to single-cylinder bikes after decades, with the Hypermotard 698 Mono expected to be introduced in India in two variants: Standard and RVE.

    Powerhouse Engine

    The Hypermotard 698 Mono is expected to come with 659cc, liquid-cooled Superquadro Mono engine. This engine produces an impressive 77.5 bhp at 9,750 rpm and 63 Nm of torque at 8,000 rpm, making it the world’s most powerful single-cylinder engine. For those seeking even more power, the optional Termignoni race exhaust boosts these figures to 84.5 hp and 67 Nm.

    Design

    The Hypermotard 698 Mono sports a striking design. Key elements include an LED headlight with a distinctive long beak, a sleek fuel tank, and a streamlined side and tail section. True to Ducati’s Hypermotard styling, the twin exhaust pipes are positioned just under the tailpiece.

    Features

    The chassis of he Hypermotard 698 Mono comprises a steel trellis frame and a steel-tube subframe, complemented by an aluminum swingarm. Suspension duties are handled by an adjustable Marzocchi USD fork at the front and a Sachs monoshock at the rear. The bike features a six-speed gearbox paired with a slip-and-assist clutch. While the RVE variant includes a quickshifter as standard, the base variant offers it as an optional upgrade.
    The braking system of the vehicle features Brembo M4.32 brake calipers at the front, gripping a 330mm disc, and a 245mm disc at the rear with a single-piston floating caliper.
    The Hypermotard 698 Mono might come equipped with three power modes, cornering ABS, four ride modes, traction control, and wheelie control. These settings are accessible via a 3.8-inch LCD instrument cluster.

  • Royal Enfield Guerrilla 450 To Launch July 17; Check What Is Expected | Auto News

    Are you a Royal Enfield Enthusiast? If yes, then this news is for you. Royal Enfield has officially announced the launch of the Guerrilla 450. The launch is scheduled for July 17 in Barcelona. Read here to know what is expected from this upcoming bike.

    Design and Features

    The Guerrilla 450 shares many components with the Himalayan but has been primarily adapted for on-road use. Spy shots have provided glimpses of its features, which include a single-pod instrument console, a round LED headlight, a sizable fuel tank, and a one-piece seat. The tank and tail sections resemble those of the Himalayan 450, suggesting a carryover design. However, unlike the Himalayan’s spoked wheels and tube tyres, the Guerrilla 450 will sport alloy wheels and tubeless tyres. It will also replace the Himalayan’s USD fork with a gaitered telescopic fork.

    Performance and Engine

    The Guerrilla 450 is expected to be powered by the same Sherpa 450 engine found in the Himalayan. This 452cc single-cylinder engine produces 40hp and 40Nm of torque in the Himalayan and is paired with a 6-speed gearbox. The tuning of the engine in the Guerrilla 450 has yet to be confirmed.
    The Guerrilla 450 is expected to feature more basic hardware than its adventure counterpart, the Himalayan, making it more affordable. This new model aims to cater to riders looking for an on-road experience while maintaining the robust build and reliability that Royal Enfield is known for.

  • BIS Introduces New Safety Standards For Electric Vehicles; Check Details | Auto News

    The Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS), operating under the Ministry of Consumer Affairs, Food & Public Distribution, has unveiled two new safety standards for electric vehicles (EVs). These standards, IS 18590: 2024 and IS 18606: 2024, aim to enhance the safety of EVs by ensuring their critical components, particularly the powertrain, adhere to stringent safety requirements.These measures are essential for maintaining the efficiency and safety of electric vehicles, which rely heavily on reliable powertrain and battery systems.

    Coverage of Electric Vehicle Categories

    IS 18590: 2024 and IS 18606: 2024 apply to electric vehicles in the L, M, and N categories, covering a broad spectrum of EV types. This initiative marks a significant step towards reinforcing the reliability and safety of electric powertrains and batteries, which are crucial for the efficiency and security of EVs.
    Special Standards for E-Rickshaws and E-Karts
    Recognizing the increasing popularity of e-rickshaws and e-karts in India, BIS has also introduced IS 18294: 2023. This standard is specifically designed to address the safety needs of these vehicles, covering various aspects from construction to functionality. The goal is to ensure comprehensive safety measures for both drivers and passengers.

    With the introduction of these new standards, BIS now has a total of 30 Indian standards dedicated to electric vehicles and their accessories, including charging systems. This extensive set of standards is a crucial component of India’s transition towards a more sustainable, environmentally friendly, and efficient transportation system.

  • Bugatti Unveils Chiron’s Successor Tourbillon; Know What’s Special About This Super Sports Car | Auto News

    Bugatti Chiron, the super sports car has a successor now. The company has revealed the highly anticipated Tourbillon hyper-GT. It features a bold new design, an advanced hybrid V16 engine, and has an ambitious goal to become the world’s fastest road car. Read here to know all about it,

    Powertrain and Performance

    The Tourbillon is powered by a naturally aspirated 8.3-litre V16 engine paired with three electric motors, producing a combined 1,800hp. This groundbreaking hybrid setup enables a top speed exceeding 445kph. 

    This new engine, developed in collaboration with Cosworth, represents a departure from Bugatti’s previous quad-turbo W16 engine used in the Chiron and Veyron. The Tourbillon’s V16 engine alone generates 1,000hp, while the electric motors add an extra 800hp. This makes the Tourbillon the most powerful combustion car currently available.

     Electrification Approach

    The Tourbillon features a 25kWh battery that powers the electric motors, providing an electric range of over 60km. It also supports 800V charging, enabling a 0-80% charge in just 12 minutes. 

    Design and Aerodynamics

    While the Tourbillon maintains design elements from its predecessors, such as the iconic C-line, horseshoe front grille, and two-tone paint, its silhouette is distinctly influenced by its new powertrain and aerodynamic needs. Bugatti has meticulously sculpted the bodywork to optimize airflow and enhance thermodynamic efficiency, essential for achieving high speeds.
    Bugatti plans to produce only 250 units of the Tourbillon, each priced at GBP 3.2 million (approximately Rs 34 crore before duties).  

  • Kia Carens Facelift Spotted Testing In India Ahead Of 2024 Launch | Auto News

    The upcoming facelift of the Kia Carens has been seen undergoing testing in various locations across India. According to the reports, the vehicle was spotted in Sissu recently, indicating that Kia is conducting high-altitude performance tests. The refreshed model is expected to hit Indian showrooms before the end of 2024.

    Exterior Design Updates

    Reports say that the 2024 Kia Carens facelift will introduce several significant changes to its exterior design. The front end will feature new LED headlamps inspired by the design language of the recently unveiled EV3. Along the sides, the facelifted Carens will sport a new set of alloy wheels. The rear will also see updates with revised LED tail lamps. Both the front and rear bumpers are expected to be redesigned, providing the MPV with a modern and refreshed appearance.

    Interior Enhancements

    While specific details about the interior updates of the 2024 Kia Carens facelift remain undisclosed, it is anticipated that the vehicle will retain the current model’s six- and seven-seat configurations. The facelift is expected to bring updates to its features list and introduce new fabrics and materials for the dashboard and upholstery. 

     Engine Specifications

    The engine lineup for the Carens facelift is likely to feature a 1.5-litre petrol engine delivering 113 bhp, a 1.5-litre turbo-petrol engine producing 158 bhp, and a 1.5-litre diesel engine with an output of 113 bhp. The turbo-petrol variant will offer a choice between a 6-speed iMT and a 7-speed dual-clutch automatic gearbox. The diesel version will come with three transmission options: a manual, an iMT, and a 6-speed torque converter automatic.

  • Tata Punch EV Secures 5-Star Bharat NCAP Rating; Check Details | Auto News

    The Tata Punch EV had undergone Bharat NCAP crash test in April 2024and achieved a significant milestone by securing a 5-star rating for both adult occupant protection (AOP) and child occupant protection (COP). Tested in April 2024, the results apply to all variants of the Punch EV, making it a standout in safety.

    Adult Occupant Protection

    In the BNCAP’s tests, the Punch EV excelled in adult occupant protection, scoring an impressive 31.46 out of 32 points. The vehicle performed exceptionally well in both the frontal offset deformable barrier test, earning 14.26 out of 16 points, and the side movable deformable barrier test, scoring 15.6 out of 16 points. The Punch EV provided good to adequate protection for adult crash test dummies in these tests.

    Child Occupant Protection

    The Punch EV also demonstrated strong performance in child occupant protection, securing 45 out of a possible 49 points. It earned 23.95 out of 24 points in the dynamic tests, a perfect score of 12 out of 12 in the CRS (child seat restraint) segment, and 9 out of 13 in vehicle assessment. Standard safety features across all variants include six airbags, ABS and ESC, three-point seat belts for all seats, and ISOFIX mounts.

     BNCAP’s Highest Rated Car

    Considering the scores achieved, the Tata Punch EV is currently the highest-rated car by BNCAP. While other Tata models like the Nexon EV, Harrier, and Safari also have 5-star ratings, their scores are slightly lower than the Punch EV’s.

     Powertrain and Battery Options

    The Tata Punch EV is available with two battery options: a 25kWh battery providing a 315km range (MIDC) and a 35kWh battery offering a 421km range (MIDC). Charging options include a 3.3kW wall box charger and a 7.2kW fast charger. The Long Range variants come equipped with a 122hp and 190Nm motor, while the regular variants feature an 82hp, 114Nm motor. Prices for the Punch EV range from Rs 10.99 lakh to Rs 15.49 lakh.

  • BMW 5 Series LWB To Launch In India On July 24; Check What’s New | Auto News

    BMW is gearing up launch the new 5 Series in India on July 24. Notably, the company is introducing a long-wheelbase (LWB) version for the first time. Read here to know all about this vehicle.

     Design 

    The latest-generation BMW 5 Series LWB measures 5,175mm in length, 1,900mm in width, and 1,520mm in height, with a wheelbase of 3,105mm. This makes it 145mm longer than the regular 5 Series sedan, with an additional 110mm in the wheelbase. While these dimensions are for the Chinese model, some adaptations like a right-hand drive setup and slightly increased ground clearance are expected for the Indian market.

     Exterior Features

    The extended length of the 5 Series LWB is noticeable, similar to the 3 Series Grand Limousine available in India. Unlike the E-Class LWB, which features a separate quarter glass and unique door design, the 5 Series LWB’s rear door resembles the standard model without a rear quarter glass. The LWB variant retains the headlamp and tail-lamp design, and the illuminated grille of the standard car, along with minor tweaks to the front and rear bumpers in some variants. In China, the 5 Series LWB sports an illuminated ‘5’ on the C-pillar, a feature that adds a distinctive touch but is absent in the standard 5 Series.

    In China, the 5 Series LWB boasts an array of luxurious features such as 4-zone climate control, quilted upholstery, and a dual-tone design. A standout feature is the 31.1-inch display that folds down from the headliner, offering 8K resolution and 5G compatibility. Paired with the Bowers & Wilkins surround sound system, it promises an immersive on-the-go entertainment experience. It is anticipated that most of these features will be available in the India-spec model as well.

  • Ather Rizta Production Kicks Off; First E-Scooter Rolls Out From Plant | Auto News

    Ather Energy has officially commenced production of its newest electric scooter, the Rizta. The company has rolled out the first production-spec Rizta from their state-of-the-art manufacturing facility.
    Tarun Mehta, Co-founder and CEO of Ather Energy announce the news on the Twitter. “The first production versions of Rizta are starting to roll off the line now!” he tweeted, signaling the company’s readiness to deliver this eagerly awaited scooter to the market.

    Design and Features

    The Ather Rizta includes Ather’s proprietary SkidControl technology and even integrates WhatsApp functionality on the dashboard. The Rizta comes in two models and three variants: Rizta S and Rizta Z with a 2.9 kWh battery, and the top-end Rizta Z with a 3.7 kWh battery. The 2.9 kWh variants offer a predicted IDC range of 123 km, while the 3.7 kWh variant promises a range of 160 km. The Rizta S is available in three monotone colors, whereas the Rizta Z comes in seven colors, including four dual-tone options.

    Battery and Charging Solutions

    Ather offers an optional five-year/60,000 km warranty program called ‘Ather Battery Protect,’ which ensures a minimum of 70% battery health at the end of the warranty period. For home charging, the Rizta S and Rizta Z with a 2.9 kWh battery come with a 350W portable charger, while the 3.7 kWh Rizta Z is equipped with a 700W Ather Duo charger. Rizta owners will also benefit from Ather’s extensive fast-charging network, comprising over 1800 fast charging points across the country.

    Availability and Pricing

    Bookings for the Ather Rizta are now open, with deliveries set to commence soon. The Rizta S with a 2.9 kWh battery is priced at INR 1,09,999 (ex-showroom Bengaluru), the Rizta Z with a 2.9 kWh battery at INR 1,24,999, and the top-end Rizta Z with a 3.7 kWh battery at Rs 1,44,999.

  • TVS iQube Recalled In India; Check Details | Auto News

    TVS Motor Company has initiated a voluntary recall of its iQube electric scooter, targeting units manufactured between July 10, 2023, and September 09, 2023. The recall comes in response to potential issues identified in a specific batch of scooters.

    Although the exact number of affected units has not been disclosed, sales data from the period suggest approximately 45,000 units were sold between August and October 2023. The recall aims to address any potential defects to ensure the safety and reliability of the scooters.

    Inspection Process

    TVS Motor will contact the affected customers directly or through its dealer network. The company is committed to minimizing inconvenience, with inspections and necessary repairs to be conducted swiftly. Appointments will be organized in a phased manner, and TVS will collaborate with customers to schedule service appointments, ensuring quick turnaround times.
    The primary issue appears to be a faulty component, and while most scooters will require only a part replacement, TVS is prepared to replace the entire chassis if necessary. All rectifications will be carried out at no cost to the customer, demonstrating TVS’s commitment to customer safety and satisfaction.

  • Hero MotoCorp Launches Xoom Combat Edition in India at Rs 80,967; Check Details | Auto News

    Hero MotoCorp has introduced a new variant of its Xoom scooter, named the Xoom Combat Edition, priced at Rs 80,967. This edition is distinguished by a fresh paint scheme inspired by fighter jets, featuring a silver and black combination with contrasting graphics on all body panels. This new variant offers customers an additional color option.

     Engine and Performance

    Mechanically, the Xoom Combat Edition remains identical to its other variants. It is powered by a 110.9cc, air-cooled engine that delivers 8.05bhp at 7,250rpm and 8.7Nm of torque at 5,750rpm, paired with a CVT.  Chassis and Suspension
    The scooter is built on a chassis equipped with a telescopic fork at the front and a monoshock at the rear, ensuring a comfortable ride. It rides on 12-inch alloy wheels and features a disc brake at the front and a drum brake at the rear, providing adequate stopping power.

     Features and Technology

    The Xoom Combat Edition is well-equipped with modern features, including an LED DRL, LED projector headlights, and an LED tail light. It also boasts an all-digital display with Bluetooth connectivity, enhancing the rider’s experience with advanced technological integration. Competition and Pricing

    Positioned above the Xoom ZX variant, which was previously the top-spec model, the Xoom Combat Edition is priced at Rs 80,967, making it Rs 1,000 more expensive than the ZX variant. The Hero Xoom competes with the Honda Dio in the market, with the Dio’s prices ranging from Rs 70,211 to Rs 77,212 for the H-Smart variant.