Category: Auto Tech

Key Highlights

• Tata Punch.ev discounts announced
• First price cut post January 2024 launch
• Limited period deal

Tata Motors added the Punch.ev as its second affordable electric four wheeler offering in India back in January this year. Since then, Tata had dropped down the prices of the remaining EV’s in its catalogue excluding the newly launched Punch.ev. However, Tata has just announced first-ever discount on the Punch.ev in India making it more affordable for the consumers.

Also Read: MG Comet-Based Baojun Yep Plus Electric SUV Fresh Image Set Shared Officially: India Launch On Cards?

Tata Punch.ev Discounts And Deals

Tata Motors has announced the first discount offers on the Punch.ev. The company is giving up to Rs. 50,000 off on the Punch.ev models. Interested buyers can visit the nearby Tata dealerships to avail the flat discount offer of Rs. 20,000 on the Empowered+ S Long Range model. Buyers will also be able to avail additional insurance and dealer benefits which collectively drops down the prices by up to Rs. 50,000.

Also Read: Maruti Suzuki eVX Electric SUV Testing Continues: Spy Video Leaked

What’s The Catch?

Discounts on the Tata Punch.ev comes with a catch. This offer is applicable only on the top-spec model, i.e., the Punch.ev Empowered+ S LR AC Fast charging variant. Also, the collective discount of Rs. 50,000 comes with a condition which depends on the availability of the unsold units. Other variants will be retailing with the initial launch price itself without any offers in the mix. This brings us to the new updated pricing of the Tata Punch.ev with the added discounts. The Empowered+ S Long Range variant will be up for grabs at Rs. 15 lakh instead of Rs. 15.49 lakh (ex showroom) launch price.

Also Read: Kia EV India Roadmap To Pick Pace In 2026: Carens EV Confirmed

Tata Punch EV Powertrain And Features Recap

The Tata Punch.ev has been launched in multiple options. As for the top-spec variant which has been made affordable with the discounts, a single electric motor linked to a 35 kWh battery takes care of the power delivery. This compact e-SUV’s motor produces 122 hp peak power and delivers 421 km per charge ARAI-certified range.

Feature-wise, the Tata Punch.ev’s Empowered+ S LR model has a sunroof and the cabin is integrated with a 10.25-inch digital infotainment screen. The Punch.ev comes with several security features including a hill-descent control, 360° camera surveillance, and more.

Key Highlights

• Skoda Enyaq iV 85 spotted
• India launch likely on cards
• Could feature a 77 kWh battery pack

Skoda is gearing up to electrify its portfolio soon in the Indian market. The brand is expected to begin its EV venture in the country with the launch of the Enyaq EV. While Skoda is yet to reveal timeline for the Enyaq EV’s India launch, it’s exclusive sighting getting charged at one of the factories indeed hints its imminent arrival.

Also Read: Maruti Suzuki Electric MPV Codenamed YMC To Get Toyota Badging

Skoda Enyaq iV 85 EV Spotted

The Enyaq EV’s test mule sighting isn’t new in the country. However, unlike the previous test mule snaps, this one comes without any camouflage covering. Publication 91Wheels have shared this exclusive leak where the Enyaq EV is captured getting charged at one of the factories. The Enyaq EV can be seen sporting a tall and wide SUV-appeal while keeping the overall aesthetics subtle and bold.

The leaked snapshots of the uncovered Skoda Enyaq iV 85 EV test mule reveals a closed-off front grille featuring vertical slats. The Enyaq e-SUV has a curved roofline boasting a coupe-styling complemented by a curved spoiler at the rear.

The tail lamp design seems familiar to the Kodiaq. The production-ready model is also seen wearing 20-inch multi-spoke alloy wheels wrapped with Bridgestone tyres. As for the charging port, it is mounted on the side panel.

Also Read: Mahindra XUV700 Electric Test Mule Snapped: Is It XUV.e8?

Skoda Enyaq EV Powertrain And Features

Skoda Enyaq EV	Powertrain
Motor	Dual motor (electric)
Platform	MEB
Drivetrain	AWD
Battery	77 kWh
Range	500 km approx.

Skoda Enyaq EV is expected to be a premium electric SUV model that will come with a dual-electric motor setup for an AWD (All-Wheel-Drive) drivetrain. This e-SUV is said to be built on the same MEB platform from Volkswagon as the ID.4 EV. The Skoda Enyaq EV is rumored to be powered by a 77 kWh battery and offer around 500 km range on a full charge.

When Is Skoda Launching Enyaq EV In India?

Skoda is yet to announce the confirmed date for the Enyaq EV’s India launch. However, all the recent developments are hinting at its arrival by 2025 in the country. The Enyaq EV is expected to be imported via CBU route in India and hence could carry a slightly expensive price tag.

Key Highlights

• Kia reveals India roadmap for EV
• EV9 India launch confirmed as CBU unit
• Carens EV and more to arrive by 2026

Kia Corporation is set to expand its EV presence in India. The South Korean auto manufacturer has established a good grip in the Indian car market with ICE models and is expected to grab a fair share in the EV market too. During its Investor Day 2024 event, Kia revealed its plan to unveil new electric SUVs in the country and the roadmap it aspires in the coming years. Amongst the confirmed Kia EVs heading to the Indian shores are the flagship EV9 and the Carens EV.

Also Read: Mahindra XUV700 Electric Test Mule Snapped: Is It XUV.e8?

Kia’s India Electric Vehicle Roadmap

Kia Motor’s CEO & President, Huo Sung Song announced the latest developments around its EV strategy for the Indian market. The South Korean auto giant will brig a major push in the EV segment starting with the Kia EV9 later this year.

Kia plans to boost its EV game with at least six new models by the next two years. The company aspires to populate its EV portfolio with the EV3 subsequently followed by the EV2 and more in the next two years. In a statement, the CEO said, “In response to EV market changes, Kia will launch six EV models by 2026, starting with the upcoming EV3 in 2024, followed by EV2, EV4, and EV5 in major markets, including the US, Europe, and South Korea.” That said, “the brand further aims to introduce two India-specific EVs by 2026. Song added, “In emerging markets, the company will deploy two region-specified EVs, such as the Carens EV for the Indian market.

Also Read: Maruti Suzuki eVX Electric SUV Testing Continues: Spy Video Leaked

Expected Kia Electric Vehicles In India And Their Launch Timeline

Kia is rumored to begin its EV venture in the Indian market with the launch of EV9. The flagship 5-door electric SUV has recently been awarded the title for the World Electric Car of The Year and World electric Vehicle. Kia is said to launch the EV9 by the end of 2024 with around Rs. 1 crore (ex showroom) price range.

Just as the EV6, the Kia EV9 will also be imported and sold as a CBU (Completely Built Up) unit in the country. Kia will be targeting the MPV segment next with the Carens EV launch. While the information on the Carens EV is scarce, it is said to be one of the direct competitions to the BYD E6 offering around 500 km driving range.

Additionally, Kia also plans to include the Clavis EV as a mass-market unit which will likely be rivaling the likes of MG ZS and the upcoming Creta EV. Both these models are said to be added to Kia EV collection by 2026 in India with former possibly arriving early by 2025.

Key Highlights

• Ather concludes Community Day 2024 with multiple announcements
• Rizta family e-scooter launched
• Halo smart helmet also introduced

Ather Community Day 2024 event finally concluded today in Bengaluru. As expected, the E2W manufacturer unveiled a slew of products ranging from a smart helmet to a new electric scooter model. At the Community Day 2024 keynote, Ather announced its first smart helmet Halo and Rizta family e-scooter. Here are the community Day 2024 highlights:

Ather Rizta E-Scooter

Rizta e-scooter’s debut remains the biggest highlight at the Community Day 2024 event. The family e-scoter has finally marked its debut with its positioning below the Ather 450 lineup. The new Ather e-scooter flaunts a rather curvy form factor unlike the sleek and aggressive attire offered by the 450 lineup.

The single-piece seat is segment’s biggest to offer a comfortable riding experience, while the modern take is handled by a wraparound LED tail lamp, a 7-inch digital instrument console, black-ORVMs, and a backrest+ grab rail for the pillions. Rizta’s luggage storing capacity is the biggest takeaway.

This e-scooter offers 22L frunk space and 34 l under storage capacity. Collectively, it can carry up to 56 liters of goods. The entire frame sits on 12-inch alloy wheels both upfront and rear.

Also Read: Maruti Suzuki eVX Electric SUV Testing Continues: Spy Video Leaked

Ather Rizta Variants And Trims: Powertrain

Model	Battery	Range
Ather Rizta S	2.9 kWh	123 km per charge
Ather Rizta Z	3.7 kWh	160 k per charge

Ather Rizta is launched in two models and three trims. The low-end models called the Rizta S is loaded with a 2.9 kWh battery pack. On the other hand, the Rizta Z which is the top-end model is launched with a 3.7 kWh battery. The Rizta S and the Rizta Z models will offers an IDC certified range of 123 km and 160 km per charge respectively. Both Rizta e-scooter models can reach up to 80 kmph top speed.

The Rizta e-scooter models will support dual riding models including Zip and SmartEco and will have same range of features too. All three models will come equipped with the MagicTwist, Reverse mode, and AutoHold modes.

Also Read: TVS iQube E-Scooter Range Prices Updated: Gets Expensive With EMPS Scheme

Ather Rizta E-Scooter India Price

Ather Rizta is announced starting at Rs. 1.09 lakh (ex showroom) in India. The first family e-scooter from Ather will be up for grabs in seven color options with 3 monotone shades and 4 dual tone shades.

Also Read: Noida Resident Gets Late To Work Due To Ather E-Scooter Update: Narrates Ordeal Online

Ather Halo Smart Accessory

The Community Day 2024 event also witnessed a new smart accessory launch from Ather. Called Halo, the latest full-face smart helmet offers a vivid and immersive listening exprrience with the integrated Harman Kardon audio. It utilizes a range of smart tech such as WearDetect and Chitchat for wireless charging, music control, and more.

The former enables a 3-way pairing between the helmet, the e-scooter, and the compatible smartphone for a seamless connected ride experience. Ather will be introducing a Halo Bit module in the later stages with which customers will be able to convert Ather’s half-face helmets for the smart features.

Also Read: MG Comet EV Prices Revised: Gets Dearer By Rs. 10,000

Ather Halo Price

The Ather Halo smart helmet is priced at Rs. 12,999 in India. For the Halo Bit module, customers will need to spend Rs. 4,999.

Also Read: Hyundai Continues Creta EV India Testing: Test Mule Snapped With Connected LED Tail Lamps

AtherStack 6.0 OTA Update

The final announcement at the Ather Community Day 2024 event has been the AtherStack 6.0 update. Its the new firmware upgrade for the Ather e-scooters which will add a whole new set of features such as WhatsApp integration, live location sharing from dashboard, auto reply tp calls, and Amazon Alexa compatibilty, amongst others.

Key Highlights

• Ather Rizta unveiling on April 6
• Segments biggest e-scooter
• Halo smart accessory to be introduced alongside

Ather Energy is just a day away from its community day celebrations. At the event, we are expecting multiple new announcements with the grand highlight being the Rizta. Ather’s upcoming e-scooter which is getting unwrapped tomorrow is being touted to be a family-centric option meeting all practicality standards for Indian consumers. Here are the key facts you should know:

New Design

Ather has taken up a new design approach for the Rizta; making it more practical and useful for families. Offering a different styling than the existing 450 lineup, the Rizta will bring a mix of a modern and subtle look. A recent full leak of the Ather Rizta revealed a single-piece body frame running from the apron till the side frame. Sleek LED headlamps, big ORVM, and a substantially large grab rail will also be part of its design aesthetics.

Also Read: TVS iQube E-Scooter Range Prices Updated: Gets Expensive With EMPS Scheme

Largest Seat Size In Segment/ Luggage Capacity

Ather has been vouching for the Rizta e-scooter’s biggest seat size. The E2W manufacturer also shared several posts on X and other social media platforms comparing the seat size of the Rizta with popular rivals. In a latest teaser, the brand once again promoted the big seat size which will be enough for one family. Additionally, the Rizta e-scooter will also be offering a large flat floor board and under seat storage.

Also Read: Noida Resident Gets Late To Work Due To Ather E-Scooter Update: Narrates Ordeal Online

Performance

Ather has not really shared the spec-sheet of the Rizta. But the teasers did reveal the same battery platform as the 450 lineup. Since the 450 lineup comes with dual battery size options including a 3.7 kWh and a 2.9 kWh unit, it can’t be said for sure if its the former or the latter that will be packed in the Rizta. Nevertheless, the rumor mill is anticipating up to 150 km range mark which increases the probability of a bigger battery pack.

Key Highlights

• TVS iQube e-scooter range prices revised
• End of Fame II subsidies increase prices
• Prices hikes in a nominal range

Its seems that the offers on E2Ws are coming to end. TVS Motors is amongst the first brands to announce price hike for its iQube e-scooter range. The price revisions for the TVS iQube e-scooter lineup comes in effect with the latest EMPS scheme. Let’s take a look at the latest prices of the TVS iQube lineup in India:

Also Read: MG Comet-Based Baojun Yep Plus Electric SUV Fresh Image Set Shared Officially: India Launch On Cards?

TVS iQube ST Electric Scooter Updated India Prices

TVS iQube Model	Old Price With Fame II Subsidy	New Price Under EMPS Scheme
iQube ST	Rs. 1.34 lakh (ex showroom)	1.36 lakh (ex showroom)
iQube S	1.40 lakh (ex showroom)	Rs. 1.46 lakh (ex showroom)

Both TVS iQube ST and the iQube S has received a price hike with the end of Fame II subsidies. The prices are being updated under the EMPS scheme which is the new EV subsidy program announced by the Indian government for the year 2024. While the prices are increased, the differences aren’t significantly higher.

The TVS iQube ST model which was retailing for around Rs. 1.34 lakh (ex showroom) with the Fame II subsidy will now be selling at around Rs. 2,200 more at Rs. 1.36 lakh (ex showroom). On the other hand, the affordable TVS iQube S variant has received a significant price hike of up to Rs. 6,000. This model has been retailing at around 1.40 lakh (ex showroom) with the Fame II subsidy has now received a revised price of Rs. 1.46 lakh (ex showroom). As mentioned, these new prices for both the models are in effect with the EMPS scheme.

Also Read: Okaya EV’s Ferrato Bringing Two New Electric Motorcycles, One E-Scooter In India

Any Impact On Sales?

The updated prices for the iQube ST and the iQube S electric scooter might not have a major impact on the sales. Considering the new prices are breaking budgets for the consumers. Also, we will possibly see this trend of price hike with other popular e-scooter models this year. Therefore, it should hardly disrupt the sales figure if the brand maintains the premium user experience with its product range.

Key Highlights

• MG Comet EV India prices revised
• Is now expensive by Rs. 10,000
• Price change reflecting on all models excluding the Executive variant

The EV market in India has witnessed a significant drop in electric two and four wheeler prices in the last few months. MG Motors had also announced discounts on its most compact electric car — the Comet EV. Now, with the new fiscal year, MG Comet EV‘s prices have been revised in the country with the changes reflecting to up to Rs. 10,000. Which models have received a price revisions? And is the Comet EV now more affordable or expensive? Find out here:

Also Read: Maruti Suzuki eVX Electric SUV Testing Continues: Spy Video Leaked

MG Comet EV India Price Revised In April 2024

MG Comet EV Trim	April 2024 Prices
Comet EV Executive	Rs. 6.99 lakh ( ex showroom)
Comet EV Excite	Rs. 7.98 lakh (ex showroom)
Comet EV Excite FC	Rs. 8.33 lakh (ex showroom)
Comet EV Exclusive	Rs. 8.88 lakh (ex showroom)
Comet EV Exclusive FC	Rs. 9.23 lakh (ex showroom).

MG Motors has once again revised the prices for its popular small EV, i.e., the Comet by Rs. 10,000. But this time, the Comet EV has got expensive. The increased prices are effective on all the variants. However, the base Executive trim doesn’t get any price revision and still has Rs. 6.99 lakh costing (ex showroom).

The Comet EV Excite variant’s pricing for the month of April 2024 is revised at Rs. 7.98 lakh (ex showroom), while the Excite FC and the Exclusive FC trims will be up for grabs at Rs. 8.33 lakh (ex showroom) and Rs. 9.23 lakh (ex showroom). The Exclusive trim price stands at Rs. 8.88 lakh (ex showroom).

Also Read: Mahindra XUV700 Electric Test Mule Snapped: Is It XUV.e8?

MG Comet EV Quick Powertrain And Features Recap

MG Comet EV	Features
Motor	Single electric
Type	PMSM
Power	42 bhp
Torque	110 Nm
Battery	17.3 kWh
Range	230 km

MG Comet EV is India’s smallest and the cheapest electric car at the moment offering a whole range of smart tech features. This compact electric car integrates a single PMSM electric motor propelling it with a 42 bhp power. It produces a peak torque of 110 Nm and uses a 17.3 kWh IP67 certified battery. The Comet EV makes a run of up to 230 km with a full battery charge cycle with the battery pack taking up to 7 hours for a full charge.

Key Highlights

• BMW i5 M60 EV bookings live
• Powerful electric sedan with dual drivetrain options
• Up to 209 kmph top speed
• Range delivery up to 516 km per charge

BMW has added yet another luxury four wheeler EV to its collection in India. After launching the iX xDrive50 e-SUV is taking up pre-orders for a new electric sedan — the i5 M60 EV. Being imported as a CBU unit in the country, the latest BMW electric sedan’s registration are open via both dealerships and the official online stores.

Also Read: MG Comet-Based Baojun Yep Plus Electric SUV Fresh Image Set Shared Officially: India Launch On Cards?

BMW i5 M60 EV Top Highlights: Powertrain, Features

BMW i5 M60 xDrive	Powertrain
Drivetrain	Dual motor
Power	601 hp
Torque	820 Nm
Battery	81.2 kWh
Range	516 km
Top Speed	209 kmph
Acceleration	0- 100 kmph in 3.8 seconds

BMW i5 M60 electric sedan is already available in the international markets. The CBU unit being imported in the Indian market could be the top-spec variant (M60 xDrive). This model has dual motor system mounted on each axle propelling the electric sedan with 601 hp peak power and 820 Nm peak torque.

Battery pack integrated in the BMW i5 M60 xDrive model is an 81.2 kWh battery pack. It is a li-ion battery module which will offer 516 km range per charge (WLTP certified). The electric sedan will come with 11 kW AC charger (standard) along with an optional 22kW charger and will also support 205 kW fast DC charging.

With the fast charger, the BMW i5 M60 xDrive model can get charged from 10- 80 percent within 30 minutes. The premium electric sedan makes a 0-100 kmph sprint within 3.8 seconds and can reach a top speed of up to 209 kmph.

Also Read: Maruti Suzuki eVX Electric SUV Testing Continues: Spy Video Leaked

BMW i5 M60 India Price Details

BMW i5 M60’s pricing details are not out yet and only the pre-bookings have commenced at this moment. However, the price for this luxury electric SUV is likely to hover somewhere closer to Rs. 1 crore mark. Exact pricing and availability will be confirmed soon considering the pre-bookings have already commenced in the country.

Key Highlights

• Noida resident late to work due to frequent e-scooter update
• Shares post on X
• Was using an Ather e-scooter for daily office commute

Modern day hectic traffic conditions significantly boosted the E2W sales across Indian Tier 1 and Tier 2 cities. Customers routed to this cost-efficient and eco-friendly mobility solution for daily commutes. But technology has always been both boon and bane. A recent incidence from Noida, where an Ather customer shared his disappointment of getting late to work due to a rather unusual reason; an app update has come to light. Here’s what happened and what Ather says on the matter?

Also Read: Maruti Suzuki eVX Electric SUV Testing Continues: Spy Video Leaked

Ather E-Scooter Update Gets Noida Man Late To Work

The user ‘Pratik Rai’, a Noida resident shared an rather rare experience that got him late to work. In a short video, the user can be seen explaining how an app update moments before leaving for the office created a commute hassle. Rai stated ‘It’s such a new problem. My Ather started updating when I turned it on in the morning. I couldn’t move or go office.” He further added “It’s like- I am late to office because my scooter was updating!”

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It's SUCH A NEW problem.

My Ather started updating when I turned it on in the morning. I couldn't move or go office.

It's like – I am late to office because my scooter was updating! 😅 pic.twitter.com/QPELgMrqV5

— Pratik Rai (@praaatiiik) April 2, 2024

While there are ‘N’ number of reasons why employees get late to work. This experience is definitely creating up a new fear amongst the electric two wheeler owners. This can be a big concern if the software update initiates after the scooter is re-started at heavy traffic conditions. While app update certainly enhances the ride experience, such incidents are a reminder of the troubles we can come across in daily life scenarios.

Also Read: Okaya EV’s Ferrato Bringing Two New Electric Motorcycles, One E-Scooter In India

Ather’s Response On This Incident

Ather has acknowledged the customers concern and has also taken a note of the incident. In a response, Ather said, “Thank you for bringing this to our attention. We’ve taken note of your feedback & have shared it with the relevant team. If you have any other concerns or need further assistance, don’t hesitate to DM us. We’re always here to help!” It remains to be seen how exactly Ather will address this concern. But it’s good to see that the company isn’t overlooking the bad experience highlighted by its customer.

Key Highlights

• Hyundai Creta EV testing continues in India
• Spotted with aero-style alloy wheels
• Connected LED tail lamps also revealed

Hyundai is apparently completing the final test runs for its upcoming electric SUV — the Creta EV. After introducing the facelift and the Creta N line variants, Hyundai will be electrifying its popular mid-range SUV and compete with Tata Motors, Mahindra & Mahindra, and MG Motors who have already ventured in the mid-size SUV segement with the Nexon.ev, XUV 400 electric, and the ZS EV respectively. Test mule sightings of the Creta EV continues and after it being snapped at a charging dock, the fresh visuals of it running through Indian roads have surfaced again.

Also Read: Maruti Suzuki eVX Electric SUV Testing Continues: Spy Video Leaked

Hyundai Creta EV Test Mule Snapshots Leak Again

Hyundai Creta EV test mule has been snapped once again sprinting through the city roads. This time too, the test mule is wrapped significantly with the camouflage wrapping, but we could get glimpse of the head and tail lamps along with the alloy wheel design.

Also Read: Maruti’s Upcoming Electric MPV Codenamed YMC: Will Use eVX Skateboard Platform

Hyundai Creta EV Exterior And Interior Design

Hyundai Creta EV’s design attributes have been borrowed from the ICE version. But the test mule snapped recently and earlier reflects the EV-centered aerodynamic approach opted for the Creta EV. This SUV sits on 17-inch wheels where the alloys are aero-inspired too.

The grille is also wrapped with the camouflage wrapping hence it is difficult to note any new design upgrade here. That said, the facia of the Creta EV will include a tweaked LED DRL design combined. It will also sport an LED sequential turn indicators as the ICE version and will flaunt a connected LED light bar at the rear.

Moving on to the Creta EV’s expected internal design, the cabin is said to come equipped with a multi-screen layout on the dashboard integrated with connected tech system. The cabin could come with dual-tone scheme for the premium feel. We might also see a big panoramic sunroof. The Creta EV’s cabin is further said to offer dual zone climate control, ventilated seats in the front row, and electronically adjustable driver seat.

Also Read: Mahindra XUV700 Electric Test Mule Snapped: Is It XUV.e8?