As the Assistant Editor, Sandeep is generating tech-oriented content and also monitoring the content published on the website. He has over six years of experience in tech journalism and has expertise in product reviews, news articles, listicles, and media campaigns.
Ola Electric introduced special discount for the S1 e-scooter lineup last month. The EV startup had given up to Rs. 25,000 discount on the Ola S1 Air, S1 Pro, and the S1 X+ models. The offers were valid on all three Ola e-scooters for the entire month of February. But now, Ola has extended the discount period for another month which makes the S1 e-scooter lineup best buy deal.
Ola S1 E-Scooter Lineup Discount Offers For March 2024
Ola S1 E-Scooter Model
Old Price
New Price
Ola S1X+
Rs. 1.09 lakh
Rs. 84,999
Ola S1 Air
Rs. 1.22 lakh
Rs. 1.19 lakh
Ola S1 Pro
Rs. 1.32 lakh
Rs. 1.29 lakh
For the month of March 2024, Ola Electric is offering a whopping up to Rs. 25,000 discount on three of its popular e-scooter models. The variants that are available with reduced prices are the Ola S1X+, Ola S1 Air, and the Ola S1 Pro. Notably, the price cut which will be applicable on the aforementioned S1 series e-scooter are same as the last month. No differences in the offer. Also, the deadline has been extended till March 31, 2024.
Speaking of the prices, with the discount, the Ola S1X+ variant which was earlier retailing at Rs. 1.09 lakh (ex showroom) is available at Rs. 84,999. The Ola S1 Air model which carries a retail price of Rs. 1.22 lakh (ex-showroom) is up for grabs at just Rs. 1.19 lakh. The top most Ola S1 Pro variant which carried Rs. 1.32 lakh price is now available at a discounted rate of Rs. 1.29 lakh.
It is worth mentioning that no discount has been announced for the standard Ola S1X variant. This model is currently retailing with its original price starting at Rs. 77,999 going all the way up to Rs. 89,999.
Ola S1 Series E-Scooters Discounts: Why Should You Consider?
The discount deals being offered on the Ola e-scooter lineup is worth considering since the prices drop down marginally. Even the top-end variant of the S1 series e-scooters is available with a lucrative price which is difficult to skip.
With modern range of features and performance-oriented rides, the S1 e-scooter range have emerged as a powerful commute solution promoting green mobility. Hence for the consumers planning to upgrade to an eco-friendly and cost effective daily commute solution the S1 series e-scooters with cheaper rates will make it worth a buy.
Renault could soon launch a new EV in India. And no it’s not the Kwid EV we are speaking of. A new electric car from Renault has been spotted for the first time ever in the country. The spy shots of the Megane e-Tech EV has surfaced which is Renault’s premium EV available in the international markets. Is Renault already gearing up for its second EV launch or would it be the first model from the company with an all electric powertrain?
Multiple reports online suggests the first ever sighting of the Renault Megane e-Tech EV in India. It is an electric crossover which has made its debut in the European markets already. The fresh sighting of the Megane e-Tech comes as an indication of an imminent launch.
However, several sources cites that the Megane e-tech model which has been spied in India is rather an imported unit for company’s internal usage and testing. There have been speculations surrounding the Megane e-Tech’s India launch and the company’s plans to assess the market for the same. Nevertheless, the sighting of the Megane e-Tech doesn’t confirm if the launch is indeed on the cards.
It is worth mentioning that the Megane e-Tech EV takes on the premium EVs such as the Kona EV, MG ZS EV, and others. Only the latter is available at the moment in the country.
Since the Megane e-Tech EV is being sold internationally, its design and performance details are known. The electric crossover design is based on the Megane eVision concept which was initially showcased in 2020 but with slight trim downs here and there. Featuring the signature Renault front design, it gets LED DRLs and sweptbback LED headlamp design.
Under the hood, the Renault Megane e-Tech makes use of the CMF-EV platform. In the international markets, the Megane e-Tech comes with dual battery pack options which include the base variant with 40 kWh battery and the top variant with a 60 kWh battery.
Up to 470 km per charge range delivery is achieved per charge by this Renault electric crossover. The former can offer The low end model performance metrics include 128 bhp peak power and 250 Nm torque, while the high-end variant produces 215 bhp peak power and 300 Nm of peak torque.
Anticipated launch timeline could be revealed soon
VinFast recently completed patent filing for its first electric two wheeler in India called the Klara S. The Vietnamese EV brand also plans to launch an electric four wheeler alongside. The patent filing for the upcoming VinFast electric car has emerged which confirms the VF3 EV model. What else does the developments hint at? Let’s find out below:
After innaugrating its biggest manufacturing facility here in Tamil Nadu, India, VinFast has started patent filings for its EVs. We recently covered the patent filing details for the Klara S electric scooter. Now, another patent filing for the Vietnamese EV brand’s first electric four wheeler has also emerged. The patent files is for the VF3 electric car which we expect to be amongst the first EVs from VinFast.
VinFast has not shared the exact roadmap yet for its EV lineup in the Indian market. But the VF3’s arrival is being tipped by 2025. This is the same time frame which is anticipated for the VinFast Kara S electric scooter’s launch in the country. Based on the fact that these two models have been patented first, their probability of coming to the Indian shores initially is highly likely.
The VinFast VF3 EV marked its initial debut this year at the CES 2024 tech event. This EV comes as a micro electric SUV with its dimensions measuring at 3,190mm (length), 1,679mm (width), and 1,620 mm (height).
The VF3 micro electric SUV will come with a boxy form sitting on 16-inch wheels and complemented by a closed-off front grille and LED headlamps upfront.
Tork Motors, the EV startup from Pune has just announced new discount offers for its popular electric motorcycle in India. The Kratos R which already is being sold with reduced prices has now become more affordable making it a striking deal in the two wheeler electric market.
The Tork Kratos R prices have now been axed by up to Rs. 37,500. Tork Motors has been selling the Kratos R with around Rs. 22,000 discount since a while and has additionally given a price cut of Rs. 15,000. With the collectove discount, the Kratos R is now selling at Rs. 1,49,999 (ex showroom) in India.
To recap, initial retail price for this sports electric motorcycle prior all the discounts was Rs. 1.87 lakh (ex showroom). The new prices are inclusive of the Fame II subsidies. But this offer on the Kratos R is temporary and will be limited till March 31, 2023.
Tork Kratos R Highlights: What Makes It Worth Buying?
Featuring a sports-style design, the Kratos R electric motorcycle rounds up an Axial Flux – PM electric motor with 9kW peak power and 38 Nm torque. The battery linked with the powerful electric motor has 4 kWh capacity. The Kratos R electric motorcycle has up to 105 kmph range delivery capacity. It can throttle to a top speed of up to 180 kmph.
Moving on to the features, the Kratos R has three riding modes. Riders can toggle between Eco, City, and Sport modes depending on the commute requirements. It includes a range of useful smart features including a digital instrument cluster with smartphone compatibility and navigational support.
It comes with regenerative braking that charges the battery during motion and also has a reverse mode to help with parking at tight spots. The Kratos R also has several utility and security features including a compact storage box at the front, USB charging slot, geofencing, track mode, find my vehicle, and anti theft alarm.
With a wide range of advanced features and an effective lower price under Rs. 1.50 lakh makes the Kratos R a worthy purchase. But since it’s a limited period deal, you should consider finalizing the deal before the discounts ends.
Vietnamese EV manufacturer VinFast is gearing up to challenge popular players in the Indian market. The company has already laid foundations for its biggest manufacturing facility in the country (Tamil Nadu) and will soon start adding electric two and four wheelers to its portfolio. The first of the lot from VinFast is expected to include the Klara S e-scooter. The development around the upcoming e-scooter comes in the form of a patent filing.
VinFast Klara S E-Scooter India Patent Filing Details
VinFast Klara S is the first e-scooter for which the Vietnamese EV brand has filed a patent in India. With its first e-scooter, VinFast seems to targeting the family segment in the country. VinFast is expected to get its EV venture rolling by 2025 in India.
The Klara S could be the first e-scooter model that will be introduced then. That’s considering this variant has been patented. VinFast might patent more models in the coming months and it would be interesting to see which all variants it will bring to the Indian shores. Since the Kalara S e-scooter is already up for grabs internationally, we expect it to come with exact same design, mechanics, and features.
Featuring a conventional e-scooter design, the VinFast Klara S will meet the practical aspects for daily commutes. It will be packed with LFP battery pack under the hood. The battery size is expected to be 3.5 kWh which will deliver around 120 km range on a full charge.
This high riding range will be achieved when the scooter is running with a standard speed limit of 30 kmph. As for the top speed, the Klara S can will deliver a decent 48 kmph max speed.
VinFast Klara S Expected India Price
It will be too soon to comment on the exact price range of the VinFast Klara S e-scooter in India. But since the brand has started its own manufacturing unit in India and with the local production, we can expect it be priced reasonably. Looking at the powertrain, it should retail somewhere between Rs. 1.20 to Rs. 1.30 lakh price range. Again, this information is based on speculation and should be considered as a grain of salt.
Hero Electric introduced its premium Vida V1 series electric scooter last year for the Indian consumers. Comprising of two variants namely Vida V1 Plus and the Vida V1 Pro, the e-scooter lineup addressed requirements of premium customers. The former has made a comeback after it was taken off the shelves. Here’s what the re-introduced Vida V1 Plus e-scooter offers:
The re-launched Hero Vida V1 Plus e-scooter comes with the same previous design theme. Sharing the same platform as the Vida V1 Pro model, the V1 Plus also boasts a modern and futuristic appeal with added practicality offered by the under seat storage.
The Vida V1 Plus features LED headlamp and tail lamp. There is also a large 7-inch digital TFT instrument cluster. The screen comes with connected tech and offers navigation support.
Hero Vida V1 Plus E-Scooter Powertrain And Features
Hero Vida V1 Plus
Powertrain
Battery
3.44 kWh
Range
143 km per charge
Top Speed
80 kmph
Acceleration
0-60 kmph in 3.4 seconds
Powertrain is the primary difference between the Hero Vida V1 Plus and the Vida V1 Pro models.The re-launched Vida V1 Plus gets slightly trimmed down mechanics when compared with the Pro model. It gets a 3.44 kWh battery pack instead of a 3.94 kWh unit as the Pro model.
The range delivery which the Vida V1 Plus offers with the aforementioned battery pack is up to 143 km on a full charge. This is around 22 km less than the Pro model. While the battery pack and range delivery is different in both models, the top speed remains same. The Vida V1 Plus can achieve up to 80 km/h of top speed. It can accelerate from 0-60 kmph in 3.4 seconds.
An array of features are offered by the Vida V1 Plus e-scooter. We have already mentioned of the 7-inch display with connected tech and navigational support. Additionally, this e-scooter also offers keyless ignition, cruise control, geo fencing, and more. There is a reverse parking mode and an anti-theft alarm for added security.
Hero Vida V1 Plus E-Scooter: How Much Does It Cost?
As previously mentioned, the Hero Vida V1 Plus has made its comeback in the country and is a cheaper variant. The price for this Vida V1 Plus e-scooter variant is set at Rs. 1.15 lakh (ex-showroom) in the Indian market.
Google Maps Glanceable directions rolling out globally
Is made available for both Android and iOS platforms
Offers ETA and real time route updates when phone screen is locked
Google Maps has been the go-to solution for navigational services on mobile devices. Multiple new features were added to the navigational app last year ranging from Immersive view, AR navigation, Glanceable directions, and more. With the Glanceable directions feature, navigating to different destinations has become simplified; specifically when the screen gets locked out. Google is finally dishing out this update on a mass scale. But what exactly is this Glanceable Directions features and how can you enable it? We have shared the details here:
Google Maps Glanceable Directions Feature: Functionality Explained
It has been almost a year since Google officially announced the Glanceable Direction feature for Maps. This is a useful option with which one gets critical navigational information ranging from turn-by-turn directions to real-time ETA updates. These important updates can be accessed without unlocking the smartphone on which the Maps app is active.
The primary function of this feature is to give you a glance of all the important navigation data even when the phone’s screen is locked. With this new feature, it will now be easier for the users to keep a track of the journey route by just a glance on the lock screen.
Even when the user takes a wrong turn and the directions are rerouted, the relevant information will be displayed real time on the device’s lock screen.As for the compatible devices, both Android and iOS users will now be able to use the Glanceable Directions feature on their respective devices.
Ather Rizta e-scooter official India launch date revealed
Will be debuting in April
Is brand’s first family e-scooter
Ather Enery has logged its name in the list of popular two-wheeler EV brands in India. The EV startup recently upgraded its portfolio with the launch of a high-speed electric scooter called Apex 450. Soon after, it started teasing a new e-scooter targeting the family segment. Called Ather Rizta, the upcoming e-scooter has been constantly making splashes online in the form of official teasers. Several leaks have also tipped the expected launch timeline for the Rizta e-scooter. Now, the exact date is also being tipped.
Ather Rizta E-Scooter: When Is It Finally Launching In India?
Sevreal sources had previously cited the Rizta e-scooter’s launch will be taking place during the Ather Community Day. An Instagram Reel shared by Tarun Mehta, Ather India CEO, backs all the past rumors indicating the Rizta’s e-scooter’s arrival on the aforementioned timeline. Notably, Ather is celebrating its Community Day on April 6, 2024. We are expecting the company to finally introduce the Rizta e-scooter on the same date.
It is worth adding that Ather is yet to comment on the launch date for the Rizta e-scooter in India. But considering it is consistently releasing teasers, we should a confirmation on the same soon.
Ather has been teasing the Rizta e-scooter with camouflage wrapping which limits us from getting the exact design cues. However, in a series of teasers shared recently, Ather hinted the segment’s largest seat size that will be offered by the Rizta. A comparison of the seats was also done with the popular electric and ICE scooter.
Going by all the developments, we can be assured that Ather Rizta will come with a conventional styling but will include a big seat to aid with comfort for families during both short and long commutes. The accurate powertrain details have been kept a mystery till now. But rumor mill indicates it will be sharing its platform and powertrain with the 450 series e-scooters. We are constantly keeping eye on the developments and will share the details.
BYD is prepping up for its next big EV launch in India. The Chinese car maker has lined up the Seal EV launch next week in the country. Previously, the expected powertrain of the BYD Seal EV India variant was tipped. The pre-bookings have also commenced for the next BYD electric car. In the latest developments, the variants and trims of the BYD Seal is also revealed right ahead of its official launch.
BYD Seal EV is just a few days away from breaking its covers in the Indian market. As per the available information, BYD will launch three different variants of the Seal EV. The upcoming models could be Seal EV Dynamic Range, Premium Range, and Performance.
The latest developments also hints a dual battery pack and motor configurations. Starting with the base variant of the Seal EV (Dynamic Range), it is said to be backed by a single electric motor which will generate a peak power of 201 BHP. This variant will produce a peak torque of 310 Nm and will feature a 61.4 kWh battery. Range delivery offered by the BYD Seal base trim will be up to 460 km per charge.
Moving on the Seal EV Premium Range model, it will also use a single electric motor for performance delivery. But this variant will offer a slightly higher power output of up to 309 bhp and torque of 360 Nm. The battery pack is also bigger with this model, i.e., an 82.5 kWh unit which can offer up to 570 km range on a single charge.
Lastly the BYD Seal EV Performance variant, it gets a dual electric motor setup with which it produces a peak power of 552 bhp and 670 Nm peak torque. This top-end Seal EV model has the same battery module as the Premium Range variant, i.e., 82.5 kWh unit with which it delivers up to 520 km range per charge. As for the top speed, the Seal EV can sprint up to 180 kmph top speed.
Lightweight form factor allows daily use convenience
Good battery backup on a full charge
Clean audio profile
Cons
Misses out on ANC
Bit expensive despite no ANC feature
There has been a rapid trend with modernization in the tech industry and the audio brands aren’t left out. We have witnessed wireless tech being incorporated even with affordable products in the current market scenario which previously was limited to high-end flagship products. Equal contribution from the pioneers in this market have helped with this transition.
This brings us to one of the latest products from Audio Technica that we got to review at Giznext. An over-the-ear headphone with around Rs. 18,490, the Audio Technica ATH-M50XBT2 comes as a premium option for audiophiles in the country. But does this headphone pair has the price justified with its performance delivery? Here’s what we think after its thorough testing:
If you look at the overall design language, the Audio Technica ATH-M50XBT2 boasts a professional appeal that seems apt for studio use. What majorly impressed us with the design is not just the looks but also the build.
The plastic body construction is of good quality despite the pair being lightweight. You don’t find the build quality flimsy at any point rather it’s a robust over-the-ear headphones that snug-fits making it an ideal daily-use gadget.
And if you are someone, who have an eye for subtle yet trendy looking headphones, the ATH-M50XBT2 will surely get your attention. The grooved Audio Technica label on the earcups improves its aesthetics.
The large earcups with soft padding allows a comfortable wearing experience despite prolonged usage. You can simply put these pair on an forget while continuing with your chores. The comfortable wearing is aided by a good grip which limits the headphones from falling off the head.
The ATH-MX50XBT2 essentially borrows its design cues from its predecessor, i.e., the ATH-MX50BT. Practicality is enhanced with the rotatable earcups which accommodates physical control keys and ports.You’ll find all the controls on the left earcup which include the power key sandwiched in between the volume rockers.
The headphones also offer a 3.5 mm headphone jack for wired connectivity. Now, this is one useful feature that comes handy under different circumstances. This variant gets a USB Type-C charging port unlike the microUSB port as the previous-gen model. Lastly, there is a dedicated digital voice assistant key using which you can give voice commands for different controls.
Audio Technica ATH-MX50BT2’s default sound stage would come as a pleasant experience for the audiophiles with a taste of varied music flavors. It has a balanced audio output where none of the frequencies topple over each other which is the case with several stereophonic and studio-headsets.
The lows, mids, and highs are proportionate with which these headphones produce a neutral yet refined audio. It isn’t a flat sounding pair and you won’t fond shrilling audios at the higher frequencies. Coming to the biggest question, how’s the bass performance? Well, expect a smooth and soft bass flow instead of thumping bass.
It’s the large snug fit ear cups that you can give credit for blocking out the background noises during playback. The ATH-MX50BT2 comes void of ANC (Active Noise Cancellation) but does a good job with passive noise blockage. There is some audio leak at the highest volume levels but nothing super concerning.
Now, that is sound signature is adequate for not just music playback but also for TV shows and movies. We had a good experience while binging on movies and shows at OTT platforms. Audio output with video playback from local directory is also the same. These headphones turns out to be treat while gaming; specifically FPS and racing games. Some of the titles we played while using this audio kept us hooked to the screen.
If you are one of those solid bass heads, then you will have to tune the equalizer settings as per your audio preferences. We’ll like to highlight the fact that the audio muffling and distortion is least of concern while using the ATH-M50BT2 wireless headphones. That’s even when you tune up the volume to max levels.
Summing it up, we have had a great time listening to the ATH-MX50BT2 and this pair gets our recommendation for serious audiophiles. That’s specifically considering it misses out on ANC (Active Noise cancelation).
The Audio Technica ATH-MX50BT2 isn’t really a feature-loaded pair. However, it does pack necessary set of modern features that aids with its convenient usage. One of such options is the Google Fast Pair tech with which it takes just jiffies to pair up with compatible devices such as smartphones, tablets, and smart TVs, laptops, and PCs. We didn’t encounter any pairing issue rather the entire experience has been smooth each time.
The ATH-MX50BT2 headphones comes with Audio Technica Connect app compatibility. Besides general audio and equalizer tweaks, you can toggle between the different audio codecs and also enable or disable low latency mode. Calling experience is good with the sound quality being refined throughout the calls for both the caller and the receiver.
Audio Technica claims around 50 hours backup per charge with the ATH-MX50BT2. During our testing, these claims seems accurate when the audio levels are lower. If you boost up the volume levels over 80 percent, expect a significant drop. Still the backup doesn’t drop down below 40 hours. So, if your usage requirements are extensive, the ATH-MX50BT2 will live up to your expectations.
The Audio Technica with a price range under Rs. 20,000 tags itself in the premium category where it gets Sony and Sennheiser as its prime contenders. With it missing out on crucial feature like ANC, it does take a hit from the rivals. However, its rugged and comfortable build along with the rich and wide soundstage comes as its savior. At no given point, you feel the audio quality getting compromised. It keeps on delivering the same refined and consistent output which one expects from a flagship-grade headphone.
