BMW 620d M Sport Signature launched in India at Rs 78.90 lakh

BMW today launched the BMW 620d M Sport Signature in India at Rs 78.90 lakh (ex-showroom). To be locally produced at BMW Group plant in Chennai, the ar is now available for bookings at all BMW dealerships across the country.The BMW 620d M Sport Signature employs a 2-litre 4-cylinder diesel engine that develops 190hp of maximum power and 400Nm of peak torque. With an 8-speed steptronic automatic transmission, the car can accelerate from 0-100kmph in 7.9 seconds. The car has several driving modes like Comfort, Comfort+, Sport, Eco Pro and Adaptive. The kidney grille of the BMW 620d M Sport Signature is flanked by BMW laserlight-based headlight units. There is a slope-like roofline according it a coupe design. At the rear, you find LED taillight units and a couple of freeform tailpipes plated in chrome. The car is available in metallic paintworks like Mineral White, Tanzanite Blue, Skyscraper Grey and Carbon Black. Inside the cabin, you get fully electric front seats with memory function, wrapped in 'Dakota' leather with exclusive stitching and contrast piping in black. There is a panoramic sunroof, ambient lighting with six dimmable designs and Harman Kardon surround sound system with 16 speakers. The rear-seat Entertainment Professional comprises two 10.25-inch touchscreen monitors with full-HD technology, a Blu-ray player, screen mirroring function and two USB ports. The car has a four-zone automatic climate control. The BMW Live Cockpit Professional with BMW Operating System 7.0 includes 3D navigation, a 12.3-inch fully digital instrument display and a 12.3-inch control display. The occupants can operate a number of functions simply by speaking to their BMW Virtual Assistant. There is also BMW Gesture Control that recognises six pre-defined hand movements for control of various functions. So far as safety features are concerned, the BMW 620d M Sport Signature gets six airbags, Attentiveness Assistance, anti-lock braking system (ABS) with brake assist, dynamic stability control (DSC) including dynamic traction control (DTC) and electronic differential lock control (EDLC), cornering brake control (CBC), electric parking brake with auto hold, side-impact protection, electronic vehicle immobilizer and crash sensors and ISOFIX child seat mounting.  

Audi to drive in over 20 new models by 2025-end, says CEO Gernot Dollner

The company also plans to electrify all core segments by 2027.German automaker Audi plans to roll out over 20 new models by the end of 2025 across markets, Audi AG CEO Gernot Dollner said on Tuesday.The automaker has also lined up a capex of EUR 41 billion for the period between 2024-2028.Audi AG will invest EUR 11.5 billion in the development of ICE (internal combustion engine), PHEV (plug-in hybrid electric vehicle) and other segments and EUR 29.5 billion for BEV (battery electric vehicles) and digitisation. "The Audi Q6 e-tron is the start of an extensive product initiative that we will use to rejuvenate our portfolio over the coming years," Dollner stated.He further said: "We are planning more than 20 new models in 2024 and 2025, including the presentation of the A6 e-tron in the summer of 2024 and the new generation of the A5 and Q5 as the first models on the new Premium Platform Combustion (PPC) in the second half of the year."The group is positioning itself for the future economically, technologically and strategically, and planning to put new products on the street one by one, he stated.Dollner said that despite the recent public debate, there is no doubt about the future of electric cars. "At Audi, we will electrify all core segments by 2027 and have defined a fully electric target portfolio," he stated.In addition, the transitional period will require starting off with highly efficient combustion-engine models and plug-in hybrids, Dollner stated."The 50 per cent increase in electric vehicles delivered in 2023 confirms our path toward electric mobility," he added.Audi delivered 1.78 lakh electric vehicle units last year, a growth of 51 per cent as compared with 2022. "We are currently launching the largest model initiative in the history of Audi, while at the same time continuing the fundamental transformation of the company," Dollner said.The Audi group saw its revenue grow by 13.1 per cent year-on-year to EUR 69.9 billion in 2023.  

American Manufacturers Seek Perfection as Quality Issues Mount

Imagine a world in which every product that leaves a factory is flawless, every time.What sounds like a plant manager’s dream is the end goal of zero-defect manufacturing, an idea that is gaining traction among industry executives. Surging recalls and high-profile problems like the door plug that blew off a Boeing jet midflight in January have cast a harsh light on the quality of American manufacturing. But some companies say a combination of technology, training and focus can eliminate errors.Ford Chief Executive Jim Farley has said the automaker must reach “a zero defect destination," telling investors last year the company has used assembly-line artificial intelligence and extensive test drives to catch problems in Super Duty trucks. Stellantis, which is similarly targeting zero defects, said more than 100 new quality standards have led to a double-digit percentage drop in warranty claims. Companies in industries as varied as pharmaceuticals and snack foods have announced zero-defect goals, as has Brewer Science, a Missouri-based maker of chemicals and materials used in semiconductors that calls itself “a pioneer of perfection" in a promotional video. The company said it has reduced impurities such as aluminum ions to less than one part per billion through exhaustive measurement and testing. Chief Operating Officer Srikanth Kommu said its definition of defects is growing more stringent.“What’s good enough today is not good enough for tomorrow," Kommu said. More manufacturers say they are aiming for perfection as quality-control problems have mounted. The newsletter Warranty Week found that in 2022, vehicle makers spent record amounts on warranty claims. Recalls announced by the Consumer Product Safety Commission, a federal agency, hit a six-year high in 2023.Sedgwick, a firm that assists companies with recalls, found recalls jumped last year among pharmaceutical and food manufacturers. Sedgwick Senior Vice President Chris Harvey said undertrained workers, the increasing complexity of products and more sprawling supply chains are contributing to quality problems.  

Nissan-Honda partnership: Japanese companies to join hands for EV collaboration

Japanese auto giants Nissan Motor Company and Honda Motor Company today announced that they have signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) under which they will begin a feasibility study of a strategic partnership in the fields of vehicle electrification and intelligence.To further accelerate efforts toward carbon neutrality and zero traffic-accident fatalities, it will be essential to strengthen environmental and electrification technologies as well as software development, Nissan said in an official statement. The two companies have reached an understanding based on the belief that it is necessary to combine their strengths and explore the possibility of future collaboration, it added. The scope of the feasibility study includes automotive software platforms, core components related to electric vehicles (EVs), and complementary products. "It is important to prepare for the increasing pace of transformation in mobility in the mid-to-long-term, and it is significant that we have reached this agreement based on a mutual understanding that Honda and Nissan face common challenges. We look forward to further discussions and aim to find win-wins for sustainable growth," said Makoto Uchida, President and CEO, Nissan Motor Company. "In this period of once-in-a-century transformation in the automotive industry, we will examine the potential for partnership between Nissan and Honda. Our study criteria will be whether the synergy of the technologies and knowledge that our companies have cultivated will enable us to become industry leaders by creating new value for the automotive industry," said Toshihiro Mibe, Director, President and Representative Executive Officer, Honda Motor Company.  

Hyundai Creta N-Line first drive, review

The Hyundai Creta has remained the bestseller in the segment almost all through its lifespan. While the product is a strong one, credit also goes to the company which has constantly refreshed the Creta keeping it relevant to the market. Keeping in sync with the same philosophy, Hyundai has decided to offer the Creta in N-Line trim, months after the refreshed version was launched. The Creta N-Line then joins the Hyundai i20 and Hyundai Venue, which were launched in N-Line guise sometime back. So what makes the Creta N-Line special? Let’s find out.The Creta N-Line to begin with comes with two new colour options which include a matte grey and a blue and both of them are just brilliant. The matte grey especially endows the Creta N-Line with a stealth look while the blue one gives it a sporty overtone. Overall the look remains the same, but look closely and you will notice a revised black grille, revised bumper and skid plate. The red stripe circumvents the outer body and looks splendid. Matching red brake calipers and 18in alloys have been added too. At the back, the spoiler looks cool and so does the twin-tip muffler. While the lights remain unchanged, the indicators follow a sequential pattern. Inside, the Creta N-Line features an all-black cabin. A red insert has also been added inside to make things sporty inside. Adding to it is the red ambient lighting. The steering wheel has been upgraded and features the N badge prominently. On automatic variants, one also gets large paddle-shifters which are easy to use. The pedals now feature metal covers as well. Other than that the N-Line continues to feature everything else offered by the standard Creta. This includes the twin 10.25in displays which constitute the curvilinear infotainment system and instrument panel. The Creta also remains to be as spacious as ever and overall the strong points of the package have been retained. Powering the Creta N-Line is the 1.5-litre turbo petrol engine which offers 160bhp and 253Nm of torque. Hyundai will offer a 6-speed manual and a 7-speed DCT with the N-Line. The Creta N-Line then has ample power to propel to 100kmph in a claimed 8.9 seconds. Fuel efficiency claims are healthy too with the MT scoring 18kmpl and the DCT offering 18.2kmpl as per ARAI claims. On the go, the Creta N-Line feels good. The SUV accelerates fast and there is a sense of confidence on the go. Even at 120kmph, the Creta feels planted on the road and one can relax as the SUV gobbles up the kilometres. Acceleration is fast but not blisteringly fast. There is a sense of calm in whatever this SUV does and this is perhaps because of the inherent trait of the Creta. Around corners too, the SUV holds its ground well, and enthusiastic drivers will enjoy the well-weighed steering that offers good feedback. But it is the ride quality that impresses the most. The suspension absorbs nearly everything that comes its way which in turn keeps occupants comfortable. In all the Creta N-Line adds to the sporty element of what is already a complete package.  

Hyundai Creta vs Hyundai Creta N Line: Price, mileage comparison

Hyundai Motor India recently launched the Creta N Line, which is a performance-oriented version of the standard Creta. The N Line brand, with the i20 N Line and the Venue N Line before the entry of the Creta N Line, has The Hyundai Creta has three engine options -- 1.5-litre MPi petrol (115PS and 144Nm), 1.5-litre Kappa Turbo GDi petrol (160PS and 253Nm) and 1.5-litre U2 CRDi diesel (116PS and 250Nm). The 1.5-litre MPi petrol engine has 6-speed MT and IVT automatic options, while the 1.5-litre Kappa Turbo GDi petrol engine gets 7-speed DCT automatic only. The 1.5-litre U2 CRDi diesel engine can be paired either with a 6-speed MT or a 6-speed AT. had a decent run in India with sales of 22,000 units since September 2021.The Hyundai Creta N Line employs the 1.5-litre Kappa Turbo GDi petrol engine (160PS and 253Nm). However, unlike the standard Hyundai Creta, the Hyundai Creta N Line has both manual (6-speed MT) and automatic (7-speed DCT) options. There is not much difference between the standard Creta and the Creta N Line in terms of mileage if we compare their similar powertrains. The standard Creta is ahead by merely 0.2kmpl. If we compare the prices of the standard Creta and the Creta N Line, there is obviously a big difference, as the Creta N Line has been made available with a plethora of bells and whistles in both variants with a powerful engine. While the Hyundai Creta is priced between Rs 11 lakh and Rs 20.15 lakh (ex-showroom), the Hyundai Creta N Line sits in the price range of Rs 16.82 lakh to Rs 20.45 lakh (ex-showroom).  

Cars under Rs 5 lakh in India: 2 Maruti models, 1 from Renault, thats it!

There was a time when you could get several cars under Rs 5 lakh (ex-showroom) in India. But now, things have changed. Cars have become expensive. The input costs have gone up and so have the prices of cars.Is there any car still left under Rs 5 lakh (ex-showroom) in India? Only three to be exact! These are the Maruti Suzuki Alto K10, Maruti Suzuki S-Presso and the Renault Kwid. Even in these cars, not all variants are priced below Rs 5 lakh (ex-showroom). As we said, passenger vehicles (PVs) cost a lot more now. Let us find out more about these relatively affordable models. The Maruti Suzuki Alto K10 is the most affordable car in India right now. With the discontinuation of the Alto 800, we are now left only with the Alto K10. Two variants -- Std and Lxi -- of the Alto K10 can be had for less than Rs 5 lakh (ex-showroom). While the Std variant is priced at Rs 3.99 lakh (ex-showroom), the Lxi trim is available for Rs 4.83 lakh (ex-showroom). These two come with the 1.0-litre K10C petrol engine (67PS of max power and 89Nm of peak torque) mated to a 5-speed MT. Only a single variant of the Maruti Suzuki S-Presso is priced below Rs 5 lakh (ex-showroom) and that is the Std variant at Rs 4.26 lakh (ex-showroom). It has the same engine as the Maruti Suzuki Alto K10, the 1.0-litre K10C petrol engine paired with a 5-speed MT. The Renault Kwid was once available with a 0.8-litre petrol engine. But now, it only gets a 1.0-litre petrol mill. Two variants of the Kwid are priced below Rs 5 lakh (ex-showroom). There is RXE at Rs 4.69 lakh (ex-showroom) and RXL(O) at Rs 4.99 lakh (ex-showroom). Both variants employ the 1.0-litre SCe petrol engine (68PS of max power and 91Nm of peak torque) coupled with a 5-speed MT.Another important aspect that needs to be noted here is that no 800cc car is on sale in India right now. We had the Alto 800 and the Kwid 0.8-litre once. But both were axed by their respective brands when the BS6 phase 2 norms became effective from April 1, 2023.  

Hyundai Creta N Line launched at Rs 16.82 lakh, over 18kmpl mileage

Hyundai Motor India has launched the Creta N Line in the country at an introductory price of Rs 16,82,300 (ex-showroom). The top-spec variant is priced at Rs 20,29,900 (ex-showroom). The Creta N Line is the company's third N Line model after the i20 N Line, which came in 2021, and the Venue N Line, which entered the market in 2022. Till now, the carmaker has sold almost 22,000 units of the N Line models.At the heart of the Hyundai Creta N Line is the 1.5-litre Kappa Turbo GDi petrol engine, which develops 160PS and 253Nm of torque. The engine can be paired either with a 6-speed MT or a 7-speed DCT. The mileage is claimed to be 18kmpl for the 6-speed MT version and 18.2kmpl for the 7-speed DCT version. The vehicle can accelerate from 0 to 100kmph in 8.9 seconds. There are three drive modes -- Eco, Normal and Sport -- and as many traction control modes -- Snow, Sand and Mud. The Creta N Line gets a new grille with the N Line emblem, re-done front bumper with red inserts and a new N Line-specific front skid plate. The vehicle is based on new 18-inch alloys. There are red front and rear brake callipers and red inserts on the side sill. At the rear, you get a new N Line-specific bumper with a skid plate having red inserts. An aerodynamic spoiler and a twin-tip exhaust have been added as well. Hyundai claimed that the Creta N Line also has a sportier suspension. The vehicle has an N Line emblem on the grille, front fenders, and tailgate. Also, there are blacked-out ORVMs, roof rails and C-pillar garnish.Inside, the vehicle boasts an all-black interior that echoes the standard Creta's layout but introduces a vibrant twist with extensive red inserts, 'N' badging on the gear knob and three-spoke steering wheel, and leatherette seats. The inclusion of metal accelerator and brake pedals, along with red ambient lighting and dashcam, further enhances the cabin's sporty and sophisticated ambience. The Creta N Line inherits a wealth of features from the standard model. Highlights include a 10.25-inch HD infotainment system, a digital cluster of the same size, Smartsense Level 2 ADAS, front ventilated seats, an 8-way powered driver seat, dual-zone automatic climate control, a panoramic sunroof, over 70 Bluelink connected car features, and more than 148 voice recognition commands. Safety is paramount, with six airbags standard across all variants. The Hyundai Creta N Line is being offered in three mono-tone colours -- Titan Grey Matte, Abyss Black and Atlas White. There are three dual-tone colours -- Thunder Blue with black roof, Atlas White with black roof and Shadow Grey with black roof. The vehicle is available at Hyundai Signature dealerships across India.  

Ford Endeavour SUV spotted on Indian roads fuels speculation of a comeback: Details

In a surprising turn of events, the iconic American automaker Ford Motor could be gearing up for a triumphant return to the Indian automotive market. As per HT Auto, recent sightings of the Ford Endeavour SUV, also known as the Everest SUV, on Indian roads have sparked widespread speculation about the brand's comeback, signaling a potential revival after the company's exit in 2022. The spy shots captured the Ford Endeavour, transported on a flatbed truck near Chennai, raising anticipation among enthusiasts and industry experts alike, added the publication.  This development comes in the wake of Ford's recent patent filing for the new generation Endeavour SUV in India earlier this year, further fueling the rumors of a relaunch. Moreover, the variant spotted in the images is identified as the entry-level Trend variant, showcasing the global appeal of the Everest SUV. If Ford decides to reintroduce the Endeavour, it will enter the fiercely competitive SUV market in India, challenging the likes of the Toyota Fortuner and MG Gloster. The Ford Everest SUV observed in India is available with a choice of two power-packed engines: a 2.0-litre turbo diesel and a 2.0-litre bi-turbo diesel. The turbo engine boasts 168 bhp of power, while the bi-turbo variant delivers an impressive 208 bhp. Torque outputs stand at 405 Nm and 500 Nm, respectively. Transmission options include a 6-speed automatic for the turbo diesel and a 10-speed automatic for the bi-turbo, with both variants offering SelectShift. Ford enthusiasts can also opt for either 4x2 or 4x4 drivetrains, enhancing the SUV's versatility. Apart from the potential return of the Endeavour SUV, Ford Motor is rumored to be considering a foray into the electric vehicle segment in India. The speculations gained traction after Ford was included in the Centre's Production-Linked Incentive (PLI) scheme in 2022, indicating a strategic move towards sustainable mobility. It is noteworthy that Ford exited the Indian market on September 9, 2022, citing operating losses exceeding $2 billion over the past decade. Despite the departure, the company had expressed its commitment to continue offering its high-end models, including the iconic Mustang, through the completely built unit (CBU) route.  

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MG Motor Indias Comet EV gets fast-charging boost with revised prices: All you need to know

MG Motor India has introduced significant updates to its entry-level electric vehicle, the Comet EV, by incorporating fast-charging capabilities. As per HT Auto, the newly launched Excite FC and Exclusive FC variants now feature a 7.4 kW AC fast-charging option, drastically reducing the charging time to under 3.5 hours for a 0-100 percent charge, compared to the previous 7 hours on a 3.3 kW AC charger. The new fast-charging variants are priced at ₹8.24 lakh for the Excite FC and ₹9.14 lakh for the Exclusive FC (ex-showroom).These FC variants replace the previous nomenclature of Push, Play, and Pace with Executive, Excite, and Exclusive, reported the publication.  The 17.3 kWh battery pack continues to provide a range of 230 km on a single charge. The additional features on the fast-charging variants include rear disc brakes, electronic parking brake, ESC, hill-hold control, electrically foldable rearview mirrors finished in the body color, and a creep mode. Gaurav Gupta, Deputy Managing Director of MG Motor India, expressed that the decision to introduce these new variants was based on customer feedback, market insights, and industry analysis. MG Motor India aims to enhance EV awareness and establish a robust EV ecosystem to make electric vehicle usage more convenient and accessible. Reportedly, the top-tier MG Comet Exclusive FC variant now comes with a price increase of ₹56,000, offering better value with its feature-loaded design. The compact electric hatch, equipped with a 42 bhp electric motor producing 110 Nm of torque, continues to be one of the smallest offerings in its segment. The Comet EV competes with the Tata Tiago EV, with an entry-level price of ₹6.99 lakh (ex-showroom) for the Executive variant.  

BYD launches new Seal electric sedan in India, introduces 3 variants

BYD Auto India has officially launched its latest addition to the passenger vehicle segment in India, the Seal electric sedan. The new model is available in three variants: Dynamic, Premium, and Performance, with prices starting from Rs 41.00 lakh and going up to Rs 53.00 lakh (ex-showroom).Built on the same platform as the Atto 3 SUV, the Seal electric sedan offers a sleek and low-slung design, resembling a four-door coupe. Measuring 4,800 mm in length, 1,875 mm in width, and 1,460 mm in height, with a wheelbase spanning 2,920 mm. Inside the cabin, the Seal showcases a modern digital layout on the dashboard, featuring two free-standing screens for the infotainment system and the digital instrument cluster. The touchscreen can be adjusted between portrait and landscape orientations. Equipped with advanced safety features, the Seal includes nine airbags, traction control, Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS), a 10.25-inch digital instrument cluster, powered driver and co-driver seats, heated and ventilated seats, a 15.6-inch touchscreen, and dual-zone climate control. Higher variants offer additional features such as a heads-up display, torque vectoring system, memory functions for the door mirrors and driver seat, and faster charging support. The Seal is available in both rear-wheel-drive and all-wheel-drive configurations. The rear-wheel-drive options include a 201 bhp and 310 Nm variant in the base Dynamic trim or a more powerful 308 bhp and 360 Nm option in the premium variant. The top-tier performance trim offers an all-wheel-drive powertrain producing a combined 523 bhp and 670 Nm, along with adaptive dampers. The standard range variant is equipped with a 61.44 kWh battery pack, offering a range of up to 510 km. Meanwhile, the more powerful variants and AWD models feature a larger 82.56 kWh battery, providing up to 650 km of range for the RWD model and 580 km for the AWD model (NEDC figures). All variants support up to 7 kW AC fast charging, with the base models also supporting up to 110 kW DC fast charging. The extended-range models, on the other hand, support up to 150 kW DC fast charging.  

BYD Seal EV set to debut in India tomorrow: All we know so far

In a major development for the Indian electric vehicle (EV) market, Chinese automaker BYD is all set to launch its highly anticipated third offering, the Seal EV, on March 5th. The company opened bookings for the sedan in February, with an expected price range between ₹55 lakh and ₹60 lakh.Positioned as BYD's flagship EV in India, the Seal will join the existing lineup, which includes the e6 MPV and the Atto3 crossover SUV, currently priced at ₹29.15 lakh and ₹33.99 lakh, respectively (ex-showroom). The BYD Seal EV is expected to feature a single variant equipped with an 82.5kWh battery pack, delivering an impressive claimed range of 570km (WLTP Cycle) on a single charge. The sedan will be powered by a rear axle-mounted motor, boasting 230bhp and 360Nm of peak torque, capable of accelerating from zero to 100kmph in under six seconds. Measuring 4,800 mm in length, 1,875 mm in width, and 1,460 mm in height, the Seal EV exhibits a sleek and aerodynamic design with a drag coefficient of just 0.21 cd. The exterior is adorned with crystal LED headlamps featuring boomerang-shaped LED DRLs and full-width LED taillights. Inside the cabin, the Seal promises a premium experience with soft-touch materials. The dashboard features a 15.6-inch rotating touchscreen infotainment system, reminiscent of the one found in the Atto 3. The digital driver display is a substantial 10.25 inches, and the sedan comes equipped with two wireless charging pads, a head-up display, and various other modern amenities. Safety is a paramount focus for BYD, as evidenced by the Seal's 5-star safety rating in Euro NCAP crash tests. The vehicle scored impressively across various categories, including 89 per cent for adult occupants, 87 per cent for child occupants, 82 per cent for Vulnerable Road Users, and 76 per cent in Safety Assist. The safety features of the BYD Seal include dual front airbags, belt pre-tensioners, belt load limiters, side airbags, a center airbag, ISOFIX child seat mounts, airbag cut-off switch, seatbelt reminders, Autonomous Emergency Braking, Lane Assist System, and Fatigue/Distraction Detection.  

Ola Electric extends discounts S1 Pro, S1 Air, and S1 X+ till March 2024: Check all offers

Ola Electric, the prominent electric two-wheeler brand, has decided to extend its enticing price reduction offer until the end of March 2024. This means that the S1 Pro, S1 Air, and S1 X+ (3kWh) models will continue to be available at attractive prices of ₹1,29,999, ₹1,04,999, and ₹84,999 respectively, all ex-showroom rates. Furthermore, the S1 X (4kWh) variant is priced at ₹1,09,999, while the S1 X (2kWh) comes in at ₹79,999, and the S1 X (3kWh) is available for ₹89,999, all ex-showroom. As an added bonus, Ola Electric has introduced an industry-first 8-year/80,000 km extended battery warranty at no extra cost. Customers also have the option to enhance their warranty coverage with an add-on, increasing the limit to 1,25,000 km, starting at a nominal price of ₹4,999. In a strategic move to enhance customer service, Ola Electric has revealed plans to expand its service network by 50 percent, increasing the current 414 service centers to a total of 600 across the country by April 2024. In addition to the pricing adjustments, the company unveiled its latest software iteration, MoveOS 4, enhancing the overall user experience. MoveOS 4 introduces several safety features such as tamper alert, Hill Hold, and Hill Descent Control. Other notable updates include garage mode, faster hypercharging, improved regeneration, profile controls, Care Mood, Concert mode, increased range, and improved proximity unlock. A new Ride Journal feature will provide users with insights into average speed, battery usage, range, regen, efficiency, money saved, and distance covered. To recall, the company has also showcased four models - Diamondhead, Adventure, Cruiser, and Roadster - though the specific release order remains unconfirmed. As the electric mobility sector continues to evolve, Ola Electric's strategic pricing adjustments and feature enhancements aim to position them as a frontrunner in the competitive market.  

Royal Enfield sees 6% surge in February wholesale figures

Royal Enfield, the renowned motorcycle manufacturer, announced a notable 6% rise in wholesale numbers for February, with total units reaching 75,935, as reported on Friday.Comparatively, the company, a subsidiary of Eicher Motors, had distributed 71,544 units during the same period last year.According to a statement released by Royal Enfield, domestic sales saw a growth of 5%, reaching 67,922 units last month, up from 64,436 units in February of the previous year. The export sector also demonstrated a promising uptick, with a 13% increase noted, totaling 8,013 units compared to 7,108 units in February 2023. Royal Enfield's CEO, B Govindarajan, commented on the performance, stating, "Our recent motorcycle launches have been met with great success, complementing the continued strong performance of our existing models in terms of both bookings and retail sales." "With the fiscal year drawing to a close, we are optimistic about our overall performance and are confident in sustaining this positive momentum into the next year," Govindarajan added.Shares of Eicher Motors Ltd. gained as much as 1.28 per cent in Friday's trade (March 1) and touched the intra-day high of Rs 3869.35 apiece on the BSE. At around 14:30 p.m., shares of Eicher Motors traded 1.28 per cent, or Rs 48.50, higher at Rs 3841.50 apiece. Meanwhile, its market capitalisation stood at Rs 1,05,182.43 crore at around the same time.  

BYD’s Yangwang U9: New electric supercar rivals Ferrari, Lamborghini with 1,287 BHP

Chinese electric vehicle (EV) manufacturing company BYD has globally unveiled its latest creation, the Yangwang U9. This new electric supercar is set to challenge established brands like Ferrari and Lamborghini. The U9 is priced at 1,680,000 yuan ($233,400), making it a competitive option in the supercar market.Yangwang is BYD’s recently launched sub-brand. The unveiling of the U9 supercar and the U8 off-road SUV marked the brand’s debut. The U8 has already hit the Chinese market, retailing for around $140,000 and competing with the Mercedes-Benz G-Class and Land Rover Defender.The U9 supercar boasts dimensions similar to the Lamborghini Aventador, measuring 4,966 mm in length, 2,029 mm in width, and 1,295 mm in height. It’s powered by four electric motors, delivering a total power output of 1,287 BHP and 1,680 Nm. This allows the U9 to accelerate from 0-62 mph in just 2.36 seconds.While BYD has yet to release the exact range of the U9, the company claims that its 800V architecture allows for fast charging from 30% to 80% in just 10 minutes. This quick charging capability could be a game-changer in the EV market.The U9 is equipped with 12 sets of multifunctional aerodynamic kits, an active diffuser, a 4-step adjustable rear wing, and a first-of-its-kind “self-developed racing assistant” covering 30 tracks across China. These features enhance the driving experience and performance of the U9.Inside, the U9 features three screens: a 10.25-inch digital instrument cluster, a 12.3-inch central infotainment unit, and a 10.25-inch passenger screen. These high-tech features provide a luxurious and interactive experience for both the driver and passengers.  

Mahindra Thar Earth edition launched, price starts at Rs 15.40 lakh

Homegrown SUV major Mahindra & Mahindra has launched the Thar Earth edition at a starting price of Rs 15.40 lakh (ex-showroom). This special edition model is being offered in both petrol and diesel options with manual and automatic transmission choices in the top-spec LX Hard Top 4x4 variant. The Thar Earth edition gets a 2.0-litre mStallion 150 TGDi petrol engine (150bhp/320Nm) and a 2.2-litre mHawk 130 CRDe diesel engine (130bhp/300Nm). The transmission options include 6-speed MT and 6-speed AT. While 4WD is standard in the Thar Earth edition, there is no option for RWD. The Thar Earth edition is being offered in a satin matte 'Desert Fury' finish. There are dune-inspired decals on the doors and rear fender with silver alloys and matte black badges. You find 'Earth Edition' badge on the B-pillars. The interior of the Thar Earth edition is inspired by dunes, having a black coloured base and light beige accents. You get beige leatherette seats, featuring dune designs on the headrests. The cabin is further enhanced with 'Desert Fury' inserts on the AC vents, steering wheel, centre console accent and the Thar branding on doors.Each of the Thar Earth edition SUVs will come with a unique numbered decorative VIN plate starting with serial number 1.  

Hyundai eyeing monthly Creta sales of 16,000 units with introduction of N Line version

Hyundai Motor India is aiming to sell almost 16,000 units of the Creta every month with the introduction of the N Line version, according to a senior company official.Already the mid-size SUV segment leader, the Creta clocked wholesales of 13,212 units in January and 15,276 units in February, the best-ever monthly sales recorded by the vehicle since its inception in India in 2015. "With N Line, the Creta volume is going to be around 15,000-16,000 units," Hyundai's Chief Operating Officer Tarun Garg said during the February 2024 sales call. "We feel that the Creta N Line will be a very strong product for us, considering the profile of young Indian customers. It will have a dynamic driving experience. It will also be unique in terms of people wanting a customised car. The Creta N Line will provide that kind of feeling," he added. Regarding the response to the Creta, Garg said it has already garnered 75,000 bookings with the petrol variants receiving 57% of bookings and 43% going for the diesel. Depending on the variant, the waiting period on the Creta is from 8-24 weeks. It is slightly higher for the diesel automatic variants.Garg also pointed out that the demand continued to be robust for top variants of the Creta with the entry-level variants witnessing less than 10% of the bookings. Overall, Hyundai has 97,000 pending bookings with almost 50% in favour of Creta. Apart from the Creta, Hyundai sells SUVs like the Exter, Venue, Venue N Line, Alcazar, Tucson, Kona Electric and Ioniq 5. "This year, we are looking at a 65% contribution to our domestic volume from SUVs. We have started on a very strong note and are already close to 67% during the first two months. For the industry, the SUV share was 52% for January and February combined," Garg said. Hyundai recorded its highest-ever annual volume in the domestic market in 2023 at 602,111 units with the SUV segment contributing 60%.In February, the company sold 50,201 units in the domestic market with the rural areas making up over 20% of the volume for the first time. "The rural penetration crossed 20% for the first time in the history of Hyundai in February. Before that, we were hovering around 17-18-19%. The rural market is slowly becoming a very strong contributor to the company's volume," Garg observed. Terming the company's current inventory level as 'optimum', he said: "We are on an inventory of three weeks. Our inventory is around 40,500 units."  

BYD’s Yangwang U9: New electric supercar rivals Ferrari, Lamborghini with 1,287 BHP

Chinese electric vehicle (EV) manufacturing company BYD has globally unveiled its latest creation, the Yangwang U9. This new electric supercar is set to challenge established brands like Ferrari and Lamborghini. The U9 is priced at 1,680,000 yuan ($233,400), making it a competitive option in the supercar market.Yangwang is BYD’s recently launched sub-brand. The unveiling of the U9 supercar and the U8 off-road SUV marked the brand’s debut. The U8 has already hit the Chinese market, retailing for around $140,000 and competing with the Mercedes-Benz G-Class and Land Rover Defender.The U9 supercar boasts dimensions similar to the Lamborghini Aventador, measuring 4,966 mm in length, 2,029 mm in width, and 1,295 mm in height. It’s powered by four electric motors, delivering a total power output of 1,287 BHP and 1,680 Nm. This allows the U9 to accelerate from 0-62 mph in just 2.36 seconds.While BYD has yet to release the exact range of the U9, the company claims that its 800V architecture allows for fast charging from 30% to 80% in just 10 minutes. This quick charging capability could be a game-changer in the EV market.The U9 is equipped with 12 sets of multifunctional aerodynamic kits, an active diffuser, a 4-step adjustable rear wing, and a first-of-its-kind “self-developed racing assistant” covering 30 tracks across China. These features enhance the driving experience and performance of the U9.Inside, the U9 features three screens: a 10.25-inch digital instrument cluster, a 12.3-inch central infotainment unit, and a 10.25-inch passenger screen. These high-tech features provide a luxurious and interactive experience for both the driver and passengers.