Category: Auto Tech

Key Highlights

• Ultraviolette brings 3 new DC fast charging stations in India
• Up to 100 more charging stations planned
• These charging stations to feature Type-6 connectors

Ultraviolette Automotive made its grand entry in the Indian market with its high-speed electric motorcycle called the F77. Now, the EV manufacturer is strategizing to improve its charging infrastructure in the country with the launch of dedicated DC fast charging stations for its EVs. In the first phase of this development, Ultraviolette has introduced three new DC fast charging stations in India called UV Supernova. Here’s everything you need to know:

Also Read: Top Electric Motorcycles Under Rs. 2 Lakh In 2024

Ultraviolette Supernova DC Fast Charging Station: Current And Future Locations

The Ultraviolette Supernova DC Fast Charging station has been currently launched in three different Indian states. Customers in Maharashtra, Karnataka, and Tamil Nadu will get an early access to the DC Fast charging station from Ultraviolette.

These three Ultraviolette DC Fast charging stations comes a part of Phase 1 of the charging infrastructure expansion in the country. While the next selected locations to get Supernova DC fast charging station remains unspecified, as many as 100 more stations are said to be included in the later stages. The timeframe by which all these Supernova DC fast charging stations will be installed in the country is also yet to be confirmed by the brand.

Also Read: Sokudu Introduces Three New Electric Scooters In India: Price Starts Below Rs. 60,000

Supernova DC Fast Charging Stations: How Will They Benefit Customers?

Charging infrastructure is one of the biggest concerns amongst the EV owners. However, the brands are gradually addressing the poor charging infrastructure by installing new stations. With the UV Supernova and Supernova Plus DC charging stations, consumers will get to access quick charging on-the-go which will prove beneficial for intercity and long commutes.

The standard Supernova charging station will offer 6kW fast charging, while the Supernova Plus charging station will support 12kW charging. Using the DC Fast charging stations, the Ultraviolette F77 is said to get charged from 20- 80 percent within an hour. Furthermore, both Supernova and Supernova Plus charging stations will be equipped with Type-6 connectors.

Key Highlights

• Paytm FATag deadline ends today
• Deactivate old Paytm Fastag is must
• Orders for nee FASTag can’t be placed with active FASTags

NHAI’s deadline for Paytm Fastag ends today, i.e., on March 15, 2024. This is the extended deadline post which all the active Fastag linked to Paytm will stop working on all toll plazas across the country. Users have been advised to switch to a different bank for FASTag by NHAI to avoid any unwanted hassles and penalties while crossing toll plazas on the state highways. Some users are reportedly experiencing issues with placing orders for new FASTag from other banks despite deactivating it from Paytm. In such scenarios, checking the status can be of help. But how can you do so? We have listed the steps below:

Also Read: NHAI ‘One Vehicle, One FASTag’ Rule: How To Complete FASTag KYC To Avoid Deactivation

Paytm FASTag Deadline Ends: Difficulties In Order Placement?

With the deadline coming to an end, vehicle owners are rushing to deactivate their existing Paytm FASTag accounts. This is a must process as per NHAI before one can place an order for a new FASTag from some other bank. It comes as a part of “One Vehicle, One FASTag” initiative from NHAI.

There have been several reports which indicates users are experiencing difficulties while placing order for new FASTag. Closing an account seems to be the primary issue for these customers. But it doesn’t take much effort to get the Paytm FASTag account closed. You just need to follow the right steps.

Also Read: Paytm Fastag Invalid: List Of Authorized Banks And Steps To Buy New Fastag

Steps To Deactivate Existing Paytm FASTag

The easiest approach deactivate Paytm FASTag is by contacting the Paytm customer care support. You can either call on the toll-free helpline number, i.e., 1800-120-4210, or can chat with the executives via the app. You would need to provide essential details such as the vehicle registration number or FASTag ID for the closure of the account.

It could take 5 to 7 working days for Paytm to close your linked account and refund any pending balances. Besides this waiting period, you will also have to check the exact status of the Paytm Fastag account before buying a new FASTag from a different bank.

Also Read: India Government Plans GPS Toll Collection System: Benefits With Transport Management

Steps To Check Paytm FASTag Account Status

Step 1: Visit the NPCI official website or click on this link to visit

Step 2: Enter the vehicle registration number or the FASTag ID

Step 3: Enter the Captcha

Step 4: Click on Check status

If your account is closed you’ll be able to see ‘Inactive’ and ‘Your Tag is closed’ message

Key Highlights

• BYD Atto 3 updated version launched
• New cosmetic and feature upgrades
• Cabin gets a bigger touchscreen infotainment screen
• Currently introduced in international markets

BYD, the Chinese EV firm has updated its most popular electric SUV, i.e., the Atto 3. Introduced overseas, the updated 2024 BYD Atto 3 is launched with new range of features. Alongside, BYD has also made some cosmetic enhancements to the BYD Atto 3’s updated model while keeping the mechanics identical to the ongoing model.

Also Read: Ather 450 Electric Scooter Lineup New Features Incoming

2024 BYD Atto 3 E-SUV: Upgrades Received

The updated 2024 BYD Atto 3 electric SUV’s exterior revamping includes a new paint scheme called Cosmos Black. It gets chrome window linings and new set of alloy wheels as a part of the cosmetic upgrades.

Besides the exterior, the 2024 BYD Atto 3 has also received cabin enhancements. One of the prominent updates that the interiors get is the addition of a 15.6-inch touchscreen infotainment system. This is the same instrument module which is integrated inside the Seal EV.

The 2024 BYD interiors further gets a new paint job too. Unlike the outgoing model which offers beige-blue dual tone finish, the new model has black-blue color tones. The latest e-SUV will now offer an intelligent start feature. With this new smart feature, drivers would need just a small push to the accelerator for ignition.

Also Read: Upcoming Premium Electric Cars And SUVs Heading To India In 2024

2024 BYD Atto 3 Powertrain: Any Updates?

BYD Atto 3	Powertrain
Motor	electric (fron-axle mounted)
Power	210 hp
Torque	310 Nm
Battery	60.8 kWh
Range	512 km per charge

The 2024 BYD Atto 3 has only been updated in terms of features and cosmetics. The internals aren’t tweaked and this e-SUV still runs on the same electric motor which is integrated on the front axle. This variant will also produce 210 hp power output and 310 Nm of torque.

The BYD Atto 3’s updated version gets the same 60.48 kWh battery module as the outgoing model. It comes with up to 512 km ARAI-certified range with the battery pack getting a full charge within 10 hours with the 7kW AC charger.

Also Read: BYD Seal EV: Top Premium Rivals Available In India

2024 BYD Atto 3 Availability

The 2024 BYD Atto 3 has been made available outside India. There is no concrete development yet surrounding its India launch. But since the BYD Atto 3 is one of the top selling e-SUV from the Chinese manufacturer in the country, its updated version should also make its debut soon.

Key Highlights

• Ather Rizta e-scooter battery details tipped
• 40-ft drop test also conducted
• Arrival just a few weeks away

Ather Energy’s Community Day 2024 will be a host to multiple product announcements. The star of the event will be the EV manufacturer’s first family e-scooter called Rizta. Ather is sharing gradually dropping off teasers revealing the upcoming e-scooter’s comfort and utility aspects. All this while, the mechanics were kept a mystery. After all the wait, Ather has finally teased the Rizta e-scooter’s battery info.

Also Read: From Punchy To Premium: List Of Top Electric Cars And SUVs Launched In January In India

Ather Rizta E-Scooter Battery Drop Test

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Shreyas loves destroying batteries and he comes up with his own crazy ways of testing them. Last time he was seen baking his battery eating ice-cream. This time he saw a crane and got excited and wanted to test strength of our batteries.

So he decided to drop it from 40 feet.… pic.twitter.com/a2LB78WT2e

— Swapnil Jain (@swapniljain89) March 12, 2024

Ather after sharing teaser for its upcoming smart accessory called Halo has revealed the battery details for the Rizta e-scooter. The latest post shared on X is also a short video like the previous product teaser. However, this time it’s a drop test showing the Rizta e-scooter’s battery toughness.

Until now, we have seen a variety of drop tests being done on gadgets and smartphones. But definitely it’s an unique approach for an EV startup. With 40ft drop test of the e-scooter’s battery. Ather is touting how it has designed a resilient battery module which is suitable for Indian terrains specifically where the road conditions might be rough.

Also Read: TVS XL EV, E-XL Bags Trademark Registration In India: New Electric Two Wheelers?

Ather Rizta E-Scooter Battery Details: Capacity And Range

Ather has shared minimum insight with the first battery teaser for the Rizta. However, the upcoming electric scooter is confirmed to share the same battery module with the 450 series. But again, the exact model with which the Rizta e-scooter will borrow the battery pack isn’t revealed by the teaser.

Which brings us to speculations of it being either a 2.9 kWh or a 3.7 kWh unit. And noting the fact that Ather is bringing in the Rizta for family-centric consumers, it wouldn’t be wrong to rule out the bigger battery capacity. Range figures would be difficult to guess; specifically since the Rizta is known to come with a bulkier form factor. Whether the range delivery will cross 100 km mark or falls short of it is something we’ll have to wait through to see.

Key Highlights

• Ather Energy teases new smart accessory
• Is being called Halo
• Could be a smart helmet

Ather Energy Community Day is hardly a month away. The two-wheeler EV startup has been teasing what all we can expect during the upcoming community day celebrations. While Ather Rizta is said to be the prime highlight, Ather is also planning to launch another product for the Indian consumers. It’s not another e-scooter which the brand plans to its catalogue, instead a smart accessory dubbed Halo. What is this new accessory which Ather has lined up for India launch? Find out below:

Also Read: TVS XL EV, E-XL Bags Trademark Registration In India: New Electric Two Wheelers?

Ather Halo Smart Accessory Teaser Out: What Could It Be?

In a post shared on X, Ather Energy’s CEO, Tarun Mehta has teased a new product that will be introduced alongside the Rizta e-scooter. The short video teaser just gives a few glimpse of the upcoming smart accessory but not the clear look. The smart accessory will be called ‘Halo’ which the brand is promoting as its top-secret smart accessory.

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New product teaser!

Say Halo👋 to this top secret accessory on April 6 at #AtherCommunityDay2024!

P.S. If you are joining us on the ground at Community Day, you may stand a chance to win one.#AtherCommunity #NewLaunch #Teaser pic.twitter.com/wvI7aeA6PZ

— Tarun Mehta (@tarunsmehta) March 11, 2024

In the teaser, we could only see the smart accessory’s quick look featuring the Halo badging at the rear. Ather has been creating hype for its upcoming product lineup that is being introduced at the Community Day 2024 event. The same approach is being taken for the Smart Halo as most of its details are still kept under the wraps.

Also Read: TVS XL EV, E-XL Bags Trademark Registration In India: New Electric Two Wheelers?

Ather Halo Smart Helmet: What Could It Offer?

As we have mentioned earlier, Ather Energy’s CEO has only teased the upcoming Halo smart accessory. The clarification of it being a smart helmet is yet to come from the company. However, if go as per the insight shared by the industry, the Ather Halo would be a smart helmet which could offer a display. The detailed functionality of the screen would be revealed during its official launch.

Additionally, the Halo smart helmet is expected to feature Bluetooth compatibility, which probably would control the display lightings.

Key Highlights

• Quantum Energy announces price drop on its e-scooter range
• Plasma X and XR E Scooter models gets discounts
• Now cheaper by up to10 percent

Quantum Energy, an EV startup has just joined the list of brands offering deals on its e-scooter range. The Plasma X and the XR e-scooter models have got special period discounts getting more affordable for the Indian consumers. Here are the deals one can grab on the Plasma X and XR e-scooter models:

Also Read: TVS XL EV, E-XL Bags Trademark Registration In India: New Electric Two Wheelers?

Quantum Plasma X and XR E-Scooter New Prices

Model	Quantum Plasma X	Quantum Plasma XR
Old Price	Rs. 1.20 lakh (ex showroom)	Rs. 1 lakh (ex showroom)
Price After Discount	Rs. 1.09 lakh (ex showroom)	Rs. 89,000 (ex showroom)

Both Quantum Plasma X and Plasma XR electric scooters have received 10 percent discount on their retail pricing. With the new discounts, the Plasma X e-scooter model which has been retailing at Rs. 1.20 lakh (ex showroom) gets a price tag of Rs. 1.09 lakh (ex showroom). The low end model, i.e., the Plasma XR is now retailing at Rs. 89,000 (ex showroom).

Previous retail price of this model before discount was Rs. 1 lakh (ex showroom). This means the prices of both variant have dropped by approx. Rs. 11,000. Just like Ola, TVS and others, Quantum has also dished out the discounts on the Plasma X and the Plasma XR electric scooter models for a limited period. These discounts on both Plasma e-scooters are valid only till March 31, 2024.

Also Read: Ather 450 Electric Scooter Lineup New Features Incoming

Quantum Plasma X, Plasma XR E-Scooters Top Highlights

Quantum Plasma X	Powertrain
Motor Type	hub
Power	1.5 kW
Battery	60V 50Ah
Range	110 km on full charge
Top Speed	65 kmph

The Quantum Plasma X features a hub motor producing 1.5 kW peak power. Linked to a 60V 50Ah lithium-ion battery, the Plasma X’s range delivery stands at around 110 km on a full charge. It can sprint from 0- 40 kmph in 7.5 seconds and achieve up to 65 kmph top speed.

Quantum Plasma XR	Features
Motor Type	hub
Power	1.5 kW
Battery	60V 50Ah
Range	100 km per charge
Top Speed	60 kmph

On the other hand, the Plasma XR also equips the same 1.5 kW hub motor and a 60V 50Ah Lithium-ion battery. However, this e-scooter has a slight lower range offering of up to 100 km per charge. The Plasma XR’s top speed is also slightly lower as compared to the Plasma X at 60 kmph. Both e-scooters come with dual drive modes including Eco and Sports.

Also Read: Electric Vehicle (EV) Stocks Surge Following Indian Budget Declaration: Here’s Why

Conclusion

Quantum Energy’s Plasma e-scooter lineup has already been suitable pick in the affordable segment. The fresh discount of 10 percent will allow these two e-scooters to compete the ongoing competition in the E2W segment.

Key Highlights

• Ather Apex 450 e-scooter deliveries started
• Launched earlier this year
• High-speed e-scooter with 110 km range
• India price starts at Rs. 1.89 lakh (ex showroom)

Earlier this year, Ather commenced its innings in the electric two-wheeler segment with the 450 Apex’s launch. The new high speed electric scooter arrived as the top-end model in the Ather 450 electric scooter range with a price range starting under Rs. 1.90 lakh. After months of its introduction, Ather has started 450 Apex e-scooter’s deliveries in Indian metro cities.

Also Read: Kinetic E-Luna: Retro Moped Revived With All-Electric Powertrain

Ather 450 Apex E-Scooter Deliveries Started: Price In India

Ather Energy has started with the deliveries of its most premium electric scooter, i.e., the 450 Apex. The flagship Ather e-scooter marked its India debut back in January this year and is being made available almost three months at the dealerships.

The Ather 450 Apex electric scooter first set of deliveries are taking place in the prominent metro cities including Bengaluru, Pune, and Goa. We are expecting dealerships at other regions including Delhi NCR to soon start with the Apex 450 e-scooter’s deliveries.

That brings us to the pricing. The Apex 450 e-scooter can be purchased in India at Rs. 1.89 lakh (ex showroom). It comes in a single color option where the design is highlighted by the see through side panels.

Also Read: TVS XL EV, E-XL Bags Trademark Registration In India: New Electric Two Wheelers?

Ather 450 Apex E-Scooter Top Highlights

• The Ather 450 Apex electric scooter comprises a PMSM (Permanent magnet synchronous magnet) motor which produces 7kW power.
• This electric motor on the Apex 450 electric scooter is linked to a 3.7 kWh battery module which makes it to deliver up to 157 km on a full charge.
• Battery pack of the Ather 450 Apex e-scooter takes up to 5 hours and 45 minutes for a full charge.
• The 450 Apex e-scooter has regenerative braking system that charges the battery while the e-scooter is in motion.
• The 450 Apex’s top speed is up to 100 kmph and it can make a sprint from 0- 40 kmph in 2.9 seconds.
• Has a dedicated Warp+ mode which improves the performance delivery of the 450 Apex e-scooter
• Features a bug 7-inch touchscreen digital screen which gets navigational support and compatibility with smartphone app.

Key Highlights

• Ampere trademarks Nexus, Aspirus
• Upcoming premium electric scooters
• India launch likely on cards

Two-wheeler EV startup Ampere has been testing its upcoming electric scooter on the Indian roads for a while. Now, the EV manufacturer has filed trademarks for two new models with which it could soon expand its portfolio in the country. The Ampere Nexus and Ampere Aspirus trademark registration suggests company’s approach in rigorously contribute to the developing e-mobility solution in India.

Also Read: TVS XL EV, E-XL Bags Trademark Registration In India: New Electric Two Wheelers?

Ampere Nexus, Aspirus Trademark Details

Ampere has filed trademark registration for both nexus and Aspirus models in India. These are expected to be the upcoming electric scooters from Ampere which will be feature-rich and performance-oriented. The trademark registration could certainly be for one of the variants which Ampere has been teasing for a while.

To be specific, the Ampere Nexus is said to be the model which Ampere has been teasing as the “NEX big thing”. The NXG concept initial showcasing was during the Auto Expo last year and the developments have picked pace since then.

As for the Ampere Aspirus, this electric two wheeler model is said to be a premium variant. Its positioning could be above the Ampere Primus which is currently the most high-end electric scooter from the brand.

Also Read: Ather 450 Electric Scooter Lineup New Features Incoming

Ampere Nexus, Aspirus E-scooters: Details We Know So Far

Ampere apparently has only completed the trademark documentation for the Nexus and Aspirus e-scooter model names. It can’t be said for sure if both these upcoming electric scooters have already hit the production bay and will launch sometime soon in the country.

But we did came across spy shots of the Ampere NXG’s test mule in the recent times. Inspired by the Arctic Tern migratory bird design, the NXG e-scooter will flaunt all LED lights including LED headlamps and stylish turn indicators. The Nexus is also expected to offer a spacious flat floor board that will handle both comfort and utility aspects.

Powertrain details are under the wraps, but both Ampere Nexus and Aspirus e-scooters will possibly bring premium mechanics and features to the table. It is worth adding that Amepere has inititated pre-booking for the NXG e-scooter, i.e., the Nexus. The e-scooter can be pre-booked at just Rs. 499 from Ampere’s official India website.

Key Highlight

• Maruti Suzuki three more EVs under development besides eVX
• One of the variants to be called eVX
• Will share eVX EV’s skateboard (born-EV) platform

Maruti Suzuki’s EV venture is set to take place with the eVX. Showcased at the Auto Expo 2023, the first Maruti compact electric MPV is slated for 2025 launch. This isn’t the only EV which Maruti has planned for the Indian market. Three more electric MPVs are in line for India launch in the coming years. Developments surrounding the upcoming Maruti EVs ohas emerged sharing insight on the intrnal codename and the platform it will be using. Here are the details:

Also Read: Ather 450 Electric Scooter Lineup New Features Incoming

Upcoming Maruti Suzuki Electric MPV Codename, Launch Timeline

Maruti Suzuki’s electric lineup is certainly set to be defined with mid-range and affordable electric MPVs initially. Amongst the three more EV variants, one is said to be codenamed YMC. The internal nomenclature has been tipped by the rumor mill alongside the potential launch timeline.

The YMC electric MPV is speculated to hit the production bay somewhere in September 2026. So, expected availability is by 2027. This timeline is solely based on the information shared by the leaks and not official sources. Therefore, we would suggest to consider this information as a grain of salt.

Also Read: Top Electric Bikes Priced Under Rs. 2 Lakh In India

Maruti Suzuki YMC Electric MPV: Other Key Details

The Maruti Suzuki YMC is being developed as a three-row electric MPV. This will mark it the 6th seven seater in Maruti Suzuki’s MPV portfolio. As per the available information, the Maruti Suzuki YMC electric MPV will be developed on the 27PL skateboard platform. This is the same born-EV architecture which Maruti Suzuki has co-developed along with Toyota.

Furthermore, the Maruti YMC e-MPV is might come with a rear axle-drive electric motor. The electric MPV could come with dual battery capacity options including 40 kWh and 60 kWh. Range expectation is up to 550 km per charge.

Feature wise too, the Maruti Suzuki YMX electric MPV will be tech-advanced. Smart dashboard with connected tech and security features like ADAS, 360° surveillance camera, and more.

Key Highlights

• Ather electric scooter to receive host of new features
• Upgrades will be added via OTA updates
• Confirmation comes from Ather Energy India CEO

Ather is getting geared for the Rizta e-scooter’s launch which has become the talk of the town for its spacious seat and boot space. In the meanwhile, Ather Energy is also working to upgrade its existing 450 electric scooter lineup. The two-wheeler EV startup is set to bring a host of new features to the Ather 450 series electric scooters via an ITA update. Here’s are the developments revealed by the brand:

Also Read: MG ZS EV New Variant With Panoramic Sunroof Launched: Price Starts At Rs. 19.98 Lakh

Ather 450 Electric Scooter Lineup New OTA Update: What All’s Upcoming?

Ather 450 electric scooter’s upcoming feature upgrade via OTA has been confirmed by the Ather Energy India CEO, Tarun Mehta. The slated OTA update is said to introduce a range of new user-centric smart features to the Ather 450 electric scooters. We are expecting all the current Ather 450 scooters including the Ather 450 Apex to get this OTA update in the future.

With the upcoming update, all Ather 450 electric scooters are expected to get the proximity locking feature for an easy access along with an overhauled smartphone app UI. The complete range of feature upgrades aren’t revealed yet; since the OTA release is expected soon. But the new OTA update is also expected to bring along multiple other enhancements for the digital dashboard.

Also Read: BYD Seal EV: Top Premium Rivals Available In India

Ather Energy’s Upcoming India Roadmap

Ather Energy’s Community Day event on April 6 is taking up the headlines in the two-wheeler EV industry. The company is actively creating buzz surrounding its first family-centric e-scooter called Rizta. The new electric scooter is teased with the segment’s largest seat size and boot space.

Ather’s India roadmap started with the Apex 450 high-speed e-scooter, with the Rizta being the second in the lot. Ather is expected to significantly expand its presence in the Indian electric two-wheeler space with several other models. But it would be too early to guess the monikers and the next segment which Ather would target.