Author: Shweta Srivastava

Key Highlights

• Skoda’s Enyaq EV seen uncovered in India, hinting at 2024 launch
• The carmaker is likely to offer it as a CBU
• Estimated price of approx. Rs. 60 lakh (ex-showroom)

Skoda, known for introducing a diverse range of global models in India, has yet to make its mark in the emerging EV sector. However, this landscape might witness a transformation in 2024 with the anticipated launch of the Skoda Enyaq iV. The carmaker is likely to offer it as a Completely Built-Up Unit (CBU). Despite numerous sightings of the Skoda EV being tested on Indian roads, the latest images reveal it sans camouflage, possibly hinting at an imminent launch. Also Read | Tata Motors Unveils New Acti.EV Architecture For Future EV Lineup

Key Features Unveiled In Spy Shots

The photographed model, featuring a white exterior finish, exhibited distinctive aero-specific alloy wheels tailored for its electric nature. Notable design elements included a coupe-like roofline and sleek LED taillights, providing an insight into the EV’s aesthetics.

Interior Expectations

While interior details remain elusive in the spy shots, the global Enyaq model boasts a minimalist layout with various themes based on the chosen variant. Notable features include a heads-up display, a digital driver’s display, and a 13-inch infotainment unit.

Also Read | Tata Nexon EV Facelift: Popular Choice With Up To 10 Months Waiting Period

Anticipated Safety Features and Technology

In terms of safety, the Enyaq is expected to offer up to nine airbags, a 360-degree camera, and Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS) for enhanced safety during driving.

Diverse Electric Powertrains

Specifics regarding the battery pack and electric motor for the India-spec Enyaq are yet to be disclosed. Internationally, the Enyaq iV offers three battery pack options: 52 kWh, 58 kWh, and 77 kWh. While the smaller packs are exclusively linked to a rear-wheel drivetrain, the larger 77 kWh variant can be paired with both rear-wheel and all-wheel drivetrains, boasting a claimed range of up to 510 km.

India Launch And Pricing

The Skoda Enyaq iV is expected to make its debut in the Indian market around September 2024, with an estimated price of approximately Rs. 60 lakh (ex-showroom). Positioned to compete with the Hyundai Ioniq 5, Kia EV6, and BMW i4, the Enyaq seeks to establish itself as a tough contender in the Indian EV landscape.

Also Read | Tata Punch EV Officially Unveiled In India: Variants, Powertrain, Features, And Price

Key Highlights

• Plan routes and charging stops to manage electric car range effectively
• Avoid constant 100% charges; consider a home charging station for convenience
• Drive smoothly, use regenerative braking, and reduce environmental impact

As the automotive industry undergoes a transformative shift towards sustainability, more drivers are making the switch to EVs. While the benefits of electric cars, such as reduced environmental impact and lower operational costs, are evident, navigating the shades of an EV requires a slightly different approach. Here are some essential driving tips for new electric car owners to ensure a seamless and efficient transition to the electric highway. Also Read | Winter Care Tips For Electric Vehicles: How To Keep Your EV Healthy In Cold Weather

1. Understand Range Anxiety

One of the primary concerns for new electric car owners is range anxiety – the fear of running out of battery power before reaching a charging station. To alleviate this concern, it’s crucial to understand your car’s range and plan your routes accordingly. Familiarize yourself with charging station locations and plan breaks for longer journeys to recharge and relax.

2. Optimize Charging Habits

Efficient charging habits are key to maximizing the utility of an electric car. To extend battery life, avoid charging your EV to 100% regularly. Opt for a charging range between 20% and 80%, which is healthier for the battery’s long-term performance. Additionally, consider installing a home charging station for added convenience and flexibility.

3. Master Regenerative Braking

Electric cars often come equipped with regenerative braking systems, which convert kinetic energy back into stored energy in the battery. This technology not only enhances efficiency but also helps in preserving the lifespan of brake pads. New electric car owners should learn to leverage regenerative braking by understanding the different modes available and adjusting their driving style accordingly.

Also Read | Want To Boost Your Electric Vehicle’s Range? Here Are Some Pro Tips

4. Embrace Eco-Friendly Driving Habits

Electric cars are inherently eco-friendly, but drivers can further enhance their environmental impact by adopting energy-efficient driving habits. Smooth acceleration and deceleration, maintaining a steady speed, and avoiding aggressive driving can significantly improve energy efficiency, contributing to both a longer range and reduced carbon footprint.

5. Use Connectivity Features

Most electric cars come equipped with advanced connectivity features that help optimize driving efficiency. Utilize smartphone apps or in-car systems to monitor battery status, locate charging stations, and plan routes that factor in charging stops. Staying connected enhances the overall driving experience and ensures that you are always in control of your EV’s performance.

6. Stay Informed On Incentives

Various governments and municipalities offer incentives to encourage electric vehicle adoption. Stay informed about tax credits, rebates, and other incentives available in your region. Taking advantage of these benefits not only makes the initial purchase more economical but also supports the ongoing sustainability of electric transportation.

Verdict

The transition to an electric car marks a significant step towards a greener future. By understanding the nuances of EV ownership and incorporating these driving tips into daily habits, new electric car owners can confidently navigate the electric highway while enjoying the many benefits of sustainable and efficient transportation.

Also Read | EV Charging Tips And Tricks: Seven Ways To Find EV Charging Stations Across India

Key Highlights

• Tata showcases Acti.EV, an electric car platform
• Innovative Design, Adaptable Power, and Advanced Connectivity
• Setting the Standard for Future Tata EVs

Tata’s cutting-edge Acti.EV architecture is set to make its debut with the new Punch EV, showcasing the brand’s commitment to electric vehicles. This platform, pronounced ‘active,’ will serve as the foundation for a diverse range of Tata EVs and SUVs, including the upcoming Curvv EV, Sierra EV, and Harrier EV. Also Read | Tesla Rival VinFast Eyes Indian Market To Set EV Battery Plant

Tata Acti.EV: Battery And Motors

Tata emphasizes the adaptability of the Acti.EV architecture that supports various battery packs such as cylindrical or prismatic, including LFP batteries. With a range of 300-600 kilometers, these batteries can be charged using an 11kW AC charger or a fast 150kW DC charger. The platform facilitates front-wheel drive, rear-wheel drive, and four-wheel drive configurations, offering a power output ranging from 80hp to 230hp.

Features: V2V, V2L Charging Capabilities

The Acti.EV platform boasts advanced features like vehicle-to-vehicle (V2V) and vehicle-to-load (V2L) charging capabilities. V2V enables one Tata vehicle to charge another, while V2L allows the EV’s battery to power various medium and high-voltage gadgets, enhancing flexibility and utility.

Also Read | Tata Punch EV Test Mule Spotted Again: Redesigned Interiors?

Tata Acti.EV: Chassis And Electrical Architecture

Designed to meet strict safety standards, the Acti.EV architecture aims for a 5-star crash test rating. The crash structure prioritizes protection for the battery inside and pole impact tests, using a high percentage of Ultra High Strength Steel. The efficient packaging includes a flat floor for enhanced space efficiency, a front boot (frunk), and additional ground clearance for diverse road conditions.

Acti.EV’s 5G-Enabled Electrical System

Beyond its structural prowess, the Acti.EV architecture incorporates a 5G-enabled electrical system, allowing for over-the-air updates and cloud computing. The digital cockpit experience, powered by Qualcomm Snapdragon processors, welcomes third-party apps and services. Some models will feature Level 2 autonomous driver technology, with Level 2+ capabilities on the horizon for future releases.

Also Read | Tata Nexon EV Facelift: Popular Choice With Up To 10 Months Waiting Period

Key Highlights

• Tata launched the Nexon EV facelift in September 2023
• Buyers in Mumbai may face an 8-10 week waiting period based on their preferences
• The updated Nexon EV features a new design, advanced interior, and two battery options

Tata Motors unveiled the Nexon EV facelift in India on September 14, 2023, with a new look and enhanced features to compete with rivals like the Mahindra XUV400. However, potential buyers should be prepared for a waiting period before getting their hands on this popular electric vehicle. Here’s everything you need to know. Also Read | Tata Punch EV Test Mule Spotted Again: Redesigned Interiors?

Waiting Period Details

Customers eager to purchase the updated Nexon EV will need to exercise patience, facing a waiting period of 8-10 weeks from the day of booking. It’s important to note that the waiting time can vary based on factors such as the chosen battery pack, variant, color preference, dealership, and other considerations. Keep in mind that these details specifically apply to bookings made in Mumbai. For more accurate and personalized information, it’s advisable to reach out to the nearest authorized dealership.

Exciting Upgrades In The Facelift

The facelifted Nexon boasts several exciting upgrades. Its exterior features a completely redesigned fascia, with a striking LED light bar running along both the bonnet and the tailgate. Tweaked LED headlamps and taillamps, along with newly designed front and rear bumpers, contribute to the vehicle’s refreshed appearance. On the inside, the Nexon EV offers a 12.3-inch touchscreen infotainment system, a fully digital instrument cluster, electronic parking brakes, a two-spoke steering wheel with an illuminated logo, ventilated front seats, and a single-pane sunroof.

Also Read | Tesla Achieves Record Q4 Deliveries, Misses Top Spot To BYD

Battery Options And Performance

Buyers have the choice of two battery pack options: Medium Range and Long Range. The claimed range for these options is 325km and 465km, respectively. The electric motor delivers an impressive performance, generating up to 143bhp and 215Nm of torque. Charging the battery from 10 to 100 percent is a convenient process, taking six hours using a 7.2kW AC charger.

Verdict

While the Tata Nexon EV facelift promises an enhanced driving experience, potential buyers should anticipate a wait of 8-10 weeks, making it essential to plan their purchase accordingly.

Also Read | Tesla Rival VinFast Eyes Indian Market To Set EV Battery Plant

Key Highlights

• VinFast’s new Thoothukudi plant will produce EV batteries
• VinFast announced plans for assembly factories in India and Indonesia
• The investment size and operational timeline for Tamil Nadu are unclear

Vietnamese electric vehicle manufacturer, VinFast, often seen as a rival to Tesla and BYD from China, is looking to establish its first manufacturing facility in India, specifically in the Tamil Nadu region. Also Read | Ayodhya Introduces EV Golf Car Service Ahead Of Ram Mandir Inauguration

Battery Production Plant In Thoothukudi

VinFast plans to open a new plant in Thoothukudi, focusing on the production of batteries for electric vehicles, according to sources close to the matter cited by Reuters.

Exploring Opportunities In India

VinFast has been actively exploring opportunities in India, with reports in September indicating hiring efforts for various roles such as sales, legal, and back-office positions.

Investment Size And Timeline

While the exact investment size and operational timeline for the Tamil Nadu plant remain unclear, the company is considering bringing both electric scooters and cars to the Indian market.

Also Read | Tesla Achieves Record Q4 Deliveries, Misses Top Spot To BYD

Global Expansion Plans

In October, VinFast announced plans to build assembly factories in India and Indonesia, each with a capacity of up to 50,000 cars annually. The initial capital expenditure for these projects is estimated to reach up to $200 million, with production scheduled to begin in 2026.

Tesla’s Entry into India

Concurrently, Tesla is in the final stages of negotiating the establishment of its manufacturing plant in Gujarat, India. The electric vehicle manufacturer is expected to enter the Indian market soon.

Gogoro’s Investment In India

Gogoro, a Taiwanese battery-swapping company, is also planning to increase its investments in India. The focus is on manufacturing electric two-wheelers and developing a battery-swapping infrastructure for these vehicles in the coming years.

EV Market Growth In India

As of December 29, according to Vahan data, EV registrations in India rose to 15.13 lakh units in 2023, up from 10.25 lakh units the previous year. Two-wheelers continue to dominate the EV space, with registrations growing 34 percent year-on-year to 8.49 lakh units in 2023.

Also Read | Tata Punch EV Test Mule Spotted Again: Redesigned Interiors?

Key Highlights

• Tesla’s record Q4 deliveries fall short of BYD’s surge
• BYD’s price-cutting strategy pays off
• Challenges and Adjustments for Tesla

In a strong fourth-quarter performance, Tesla exceeded market expectations by delivering a record 494,989 electric vehicles. Despite this achievement, the U.S. automaker lost its position as the leading EV manufacturer to China’s BYD, which handed over an impressive 526,409 vehicles during the same period. Also Read | Servotech Signed MoU With Lloyd Campus For EV Innovation Hub And Charging Station

BYD Surpasses Tesla As Top EV Maker

Warren Buffett-backed BYD’s success in the EV market signals a shift, as the Chinese company’s deliveries outpaced Tesla’s. This development suggests a preference among car buyers for more affordable models in a high-interest-rate economic environment, predominantly in China.

Tesla’s Strong Year-End Push Falls Short Of Internal Target

While Tesla’s year-end sales push contributed to 1.8 million deliveries in 2023, it fell short of CEO Elon Musk’s ambitious internal target of 2 million vehicles annually. Despite missing this goal, Tesla remains ahead of BYD in total deliveries for the year.

BYD’s Strategy: Price Cuts And Market Share Expansion

Susannah Streeter, Head of Money and Markets at Hargreaves Lansdown, notes that BYD’s successful deliveries indicate the effectiveness of its price-cutting strategy. Despite potential impacts on margins for both companies, BYD prioritizes market share and recognition over short-term profitability.

Tesla’s Response: Discounts And Incentives

Tesla implemented discounts and incentives to stimulate sales, including six months of free fast charging for deliveries by the end of December. These efforts led to an 11% growth over the previous quarter, with a total of 494,989 vehicles produced in Q4.

Also Read | Tesla’s Red Model X Spotted In Bengaluru: The EV Turns Heads And Trends Online

Challenges And Regulatory Scrutiny For Tesla

Tesla faces challenges beyond market competition, including scrutiny over its self-driving technology. A recent recall of over 2 million vehicles aimed to address safety concerns raised by federal regulators, and Consumer Reports suggests that software updates may not be sufficient.

Potential Price Adjustments Post-Tax Credits

With the end of tax incentives under the Inflation Reduction Act, analysts speculate that Tesla may need to continue price cuts to sustain demand. Seth Goldstein, Equity Strategist at Morningstar, suggests that the company might adjust prices further, particularly for models like the Model 3 facing the loss of tax credits.

Model Breakdown And Future Outlook

Model 3 and Model Y constituted the majority of deliveries in Q4, with 461,538 units. Tesla, however, did not disclose whether these figures included the recently launched Cybertruck. Analysts anticipate ongoing market dynamics and potential price adjustments based on interest rates and tax credit changes.

Also Read | Ayodhya Introduces EV Golf Car Service Ahead Of Ram Mandir Inauguration

Key Highlights

• EV Golf Car Service started before the Ram Mandir inauguration
• It aims to provide zero-carbon emission E-vehicle transport facilities
• Ram Temple worship ceremony scheduled for January 22

The Uttar Pradesh government has initiated an environmentally friendly golf car service in Ayodhya in preparation for the worship ceremony of the Ram Temple scheduled for January 22. This service aims to provide zero-carbon emission E-vehicle transport facilities in Ayodhya. Also Read | Tesla’s Red Model X Spotted In Bengaluru: The EV Turns Heads And Trends Online

Ayodhya Development Authority’s Action Plan

The Ayodhya Development Authority (ADA) has begun developing a full action plan to implement the eco-friendly transport initiative in Ayodhya. The plan focuses on the use of electric vehicles, particularly those manufactured in India under the ‘Make in India’ initiative.

Initial Phase Implementation

In the first phase of implementation, 15 four-wheeler EV Plus vehicles with a seating capacity of four passengers each have been introduced in Ayodhya. The preference is given to EVs produced locally to support the national ‘Make in India’ campaign.

E-Cart Service For Devotees

Since the Deepotsav program last year, an e-cart service has been operational in Ayodhya. This service, with a seating capacity for six passengers, primarily assists elderly devotees in traveling to Hanumangarhi, Shri Ram Janmabhoomi temple complex, and other pilgrimage sites.

Lucknow-Ayodhya EV Transport Service

The government has announced the commencement of an EV transport service between Lucknow and Ayodhya. Currently operated by ADA through a private partnership, this service contributes to the initiative of environmentally friendly transportation.

Also Read | Volkswagen New Entry-Level Electric SUV Launch Imminent: T-Cross E-SUV Successor?

VVIP Movement And Fleet Deployment

In preparation for the Shri Ram Janmabhoomi Temple Pran-Pratishtha program, a significant VVIP movement, including artists and tourists, is planned in Ayodhya from Makar Sankranti (January 15) to January 22. To accommodate this, the government has initiated the deployment of a fleet of 200 e-vehicles, emphasizing zero-carbon emission transportation.

‘My EV Plus’ Cab Service

As part of the EV transportation process, Passion International Private Limited is offering a cab service named ‘My EV Plus’ in collaboration with ADA. The director of the company, Prashant Garg, has highlighted that the service, which operates as a pick-and-drop facility, will be available for pilgrims arriving at Ayodhya airport starting January 6.

Pricing

Passengers using the service between Lucknow and Ayodhya will be required to pay a fee of Rs. 3,000 for a one-way journey. Additionally, within Ayodhya, the fare structure is outlined as follows:

Distance	Price
0 to 10 km	Rs. 250
0 to 15 km	Rs. 399
0 to 20 km	Rs. 499
20 to 30 km	Rs. 799
30 to 40 km	Rs. 999

These measures aim to ensure smooth and safe journeys through Google Location and Google Maps access.

Also Read | Servotech Signed MoU With Lloyd Campus For EV Innovation Hub And Charging Station