Category: Auto Tech

• New BYD Dolphin EV introduced in China
• Is India-bound model with upgraded features
• Price also axed

Chinese car manufacturer BYD has just introduced a new Dolphin EV model in its home country China. The latest BYD Dolphin model highlights updated features and also revised prices which makes it more affordable. Let’s know all details:

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

New BYD Dolphin EV Powertrain

The latest BYD Dolphin electric hatchback comes with multiple battery pack options. The base model runs on a front-axle mounted single electric motor delivering 70 kW of peak power. With a 32 kWh battery pack it offers up to 302 km range per charge.

There is also a bigger 45 kWh battery variant which has a riding range of up to 402 km on a full battery charge. The powerful motor variant produces 130 kW power. In later stages, BYD will also launch a 60 kWh battery variant of the Dolphin EV. The expected availability timeline for this model is likely by the end of 2024. Top speed which the 2024 BYD Dolphin can achieve is it up to 160 kmph.

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

Feature Upgrades

The updated 2024 BYD Dolphin EV also gets a slew of features enhancements in addition to new color schemes. It gets refreshed alloy wheel set along with adaptive headlights, ADAS, ventilated and electronically adjustable seats, traction, and hill decent control. The new BYD Dolphin EV model comes with a V2L (Vehicle-to-load) technology which allows charging other devices using the car itself.

Also Read: Volkswagen Confirms ID.4 Electric SUV India Launch In 2024

2024 BYD Dolphin EV Prices: Cheaper Than Existing Models?

The latest BYD Dolphin introduced in China comes wit ha lower price range as opposed to the existing models. The price for the BYD Dolphin Vitality model starts at 99,800 yuan (around Rs. 11.49 lakh). This is almost 4.7 percent lower price tag compared to the previous version.

Likewise, the BYD Dolphin Free variant has been introduced at 112,800 yuan which is around Rs. 13. 25 lakh and the top-end Dolphin comes with 119,800 yuan price label which translates to around Rs. 14.07 lakh in Indian currency.

Key Highlights

• Electric bikes have gained massive popularity
• Multiple models from startup brands tops the list
• Revolt, Matter, and more options listed below

Electric vehicles have become the modern mobility solution in India. Th transformation has been the EV and besides existing automobile giants, startups are helping to shape up the EV space. A major push comes from two-wheeler EV brands which are aggressively adding on new models to their portfolio. We have shared multiple listicles mentioning the best electric scooters across different segments. This time, we have curated the list of top electric motorcycles that can be purchased under Rs. 2 lakh.

Revolt RV400

The Revolt RV400 is one of the best electric bikes that costs below Rs. 2 lakh in India. It is a naked street-style electric bike which is performance-oriented and has loads of smart features.

• Revolt RV400 electric bike features a hub motor
• Performance output includes 3kW power and 176 Nm torque
• Features a 3.24 kWh battery pack
• Can travel to up to 125 km range on a full charge
• Is able to speed max up to 85 kmph
• Comes with three riding modes including Eco, Sport, and Power
• Battery takes up to 4.5 hours for 0-100 percent charge
• Priced starting at Rs. 1.38 lakh in India

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

Matter Aera 5000

Matter Aera 5000 arrived as India’s first electric motorcycle with 4-speed gearbox. If you need a slightly more powerful electric motorcycle than the Revolt RV400, then this is the model to consider.

• Comes with manual transmission option despite an electric powertrain
• Produces 10.5 kW power and 520 Nm toque
• Available with up to 6kWh battery option
• Range delivery is up to 150 km on a full charge
• With the standard charger it takes up to 5 hours for full battery charge
• With fast charger it takes up to 2 hours for a full charge

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

Komaki Ranger

If you wish to own a cruiser electric motorcycle, you have limited options in the Indian market. The Komaki Ranger is one good option if you are looking for a comfortable and friendly ride.

• Is powered by a BLDC hub motor
• Performance metrics include 4 kW power output and 50 Nm torque
• Is equipped with a dedicated sound emitter that generates 650cc motorcycle-like sound
• Features a 4.5 kWh battery pack
• Lithium-Ion battery which has IP67 certification
• Can deliver up to 250 km range on one full battery charge
• Price starts at Rs. 1.85 lakh in India

Also Read: Top Electric Two-Wheelers That Don’t Require A License to drive In India

Conclusion

If you step out, you do have several e-bike options catering to varied ride requirements. The models listed above have been selected based on performance as well as comfort. Assessing your general commuting needs is the key to select the appropriate model.

Key Highlights

• Xiaomi showcases SU7 EV at MWC 2024
• Is the brand’s first electric car
• Will debut in the premium segment
• Could offer up to 800 km range (top-spec model)

MWC (Mobile World Congress) 2024 is world’s biggest technology fair where the brands showcase their upcoming product lineup and enhancements in the tech space. This year too, the global tech event is being hosted in Barcelona, where new gadgets are lined up for showcasing. But its not just smartphones, and other consumer-tech products up for display at the MWC. Chinese OEM Xiaomi has moved a step ahead and is showcasing its first electric car, i.e., the Xiaomi SU7 at the MWC 2024.

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

Xiaomi SU7 EV At MWC 2024

The MWC 2024 event is being hosted in Barcelona this year as well. The event starts on February 26 and will end on February 29, 2024. Xiaomi is showcasing its enhancements in the mobile technology with the flagship Xiaomi 14 series. But what’s turning more heads is the brand’s first electric car, i.e., the SU7.

The Xiaomi SU7 EV’s full design is highlighted with the prototype model being showcased at the event. Xiaomi has designed a modern and futuristic electric sedan whose design language is apparently inspired by the sports supercars.

The premium looking EV will measure 4,997 mm in length and 1,455 mm in height boasting a strong road presence with its modern looks. The Xiaomi SU7 has an aggressive front approach which is complemented by the aerodynamic ergonomics. This e-sedan has a sloping roofline and will include a panoramic sunroof.

The Xiaomi SU7 prototype which has taken the centre stage at the MWC 2024 is painted in Aqua Blue shade. This is one of the multiple trendy color options we are expecting Xiaomi to introduce with the SU7. The electric sedan apparently sits on big 19-inch and 20-inch wheels which further boasts its sports profile.

Visuals of the cabin have not been revealed clearly since Xiaomi has used tinted glass panels for the electric sedan. But we are expecting a big touchscreen infotainment screen and instrument console and least of button controls.

Also Read: Volkswagen Confirms ID.4 Electric SUV India Launch In 2024

Xiaomi SU7 Electric Sedan Powertrain (Expectations)

The Xiaomi SU7 electric sedan will be launched in multiple battery pack and motor options. There will be a standard model which will feature a smaller 73.6 kWh battery variant which is claimed to offer 668 km range with each charge cycle. A bigger battery version of the SU7 is also expected to launch in the future.

This variant will be powered by a 101 kWh battery and could ride to a max distance of up to 800 km with a full charge. Xiaomi will launch the SU7 electric sedan with both RWD (rear-wheel drive) and AWD (all-wheel drive) choices. The former will use a single electric motor setup mounted at the rear axle producing 299 PS peak power, while the dual-motor model will generate higher power output of 673 PS.

Key Highlights

• Renault 5 EV global launch on cards
• Production-spec images surface
• To offer 400 km range per charge

Renault, the French car maker is inching closer towards a new EV launch. The company will be introducing the Renault 5 EV hatchback soon in the global market. The patent filing for the Renault 5 EV was done recently and now, the production-spec images have surfaced online. When does the Renault 5 breaks cover globally and what all it will offer? Fond the details here:

Also Read: BYD Seal India Variant Specifications Revealed: Any Upgrades?

Renault 5 EV Leaked: When Will It Launch?

Possible arrival timeline for the Renault 5 EV is tipped during the upcoming Geneva Motor Show. The event will begin on 26th Feb 2024, i.e., today where multiple other automobile giants will be showcasing their concepts and new-gen models. Renault has opted for this auto show for the global debut of its latest electric hatchback. It is expected to be available in the select global markets soon, but the India arrival is uncertain at this point.

Also Read: Top Electric Cars And SUVs Launched In 2024

Renault 5 EV Hatchback Production-Spec Images Leaked: Design Highlights

Just ahead of its global unveiling, the production-spec images of the Renault 5 EV has been leaked. The design of the new Renault electric hatchback seems to be the same as the concept model which was showcased back in 2021. The slight alterations which it gets in the design is limited to the headlamp and the air inlet chamber.

The Renault 5 EV’s images shows substantially chunky headlamps than what the was shown with the concept model. Also, the concept was fitted with flush door handles, which now apparently has been switched with the standard pull-out handle design.

The leaked production-spec images of the Renault 5 EV hatchback shows the front bumper accommodating a larger air intake. This air intake unit is said to be designed strategically to help keeping the temperature levels in check with the different electrical components of the car.

The charging slot will be positioned above the front wheel arches. The rear profile of the Renault 5 EV comprises a black glossy strip with the Renault 5 EV badging on it. Tail lamps at the back are stacked vertically.

As for the cabin, the Renault 5 EV will offer a big infotainment display along with a tall digital instrument console. The images shows a 3-spoke steering wheel which will have integrated controls for multimedia and calling. It will include a rotary gear dial and a toggle-switch for climate control.

Also Read: 2024 Dacia Spring EV Debuts: Upgrades In Design, Powertrain, And Features

Renault Kwid EV Powertrain (Expected)

The Renault Kwid EV will be based on CMF-B-EV platform. This electric hatchback is said to be powered by an average-sized 52 kWh battery with which it can provide up to 400 km per charge WLTP range. The Renault 5 EV will is further said to feature a single-electric motor churning out 135 bhp of peak power.

Key Highlights

• EV industry is set to witness multiple new electric four wheeler launch
• Premium segment to be populated
• BYD, Skoda, Hyundai, and others to expand their portfolio

EV industry has seen a potential growth in India in the last few years. Auto manufacturers are working extensively on new EV technologies to cater to the rising demand. Tata and Mahindra are amongst those home-grown brands which are focusing on the affordable and mid-range EV segment, while international brands such as BYD and Skoda are planning to refresh the premium EV lineup in India. We are listing down the most premium electric cars, sedan, and SUVs that will be launched soon in the country:

Also Read: Range Rover Electric Hype Getting Real: Gains 16,000 Interested Buyers Before Launch

Skoda Enyaq Electric SUV

• Launch Date: February 27, 2024
• Type: Electric SUV
• Will be packed with a 77 kWh battery unit
• Expected range delivery will be around 500 km range on a full charge
• Power output will be 200 bhp, while the torque generated will be 310 Nm
• Can reach up to 179 kmph top speed
• Accelerates from 0-100 kmph in 8.5 seconds
• Advanced safety tech including ADAS
• Will also include 360-degree surveillance camera
• Will be imported via CBU route

Also Read: Women Premier League (WPL) 2024: Tata Punch.ev Grabs Official Car Title

BYD Seal Electric Sedan

• Launch Date: March 5, 2024
• Type: Electric Sedan
• To be powered by a single PMSM (Permanent Magnet Synchronous Motor)
• Power delivery output to be up to 230hp, while the torque could be around 260Nm torque
• Might come with just RWD (rear wheel drive) option
• To be backed by an 82.5 kWh battery
• Will achieve up to 180 kmph top speed and accelerate from 0-100 kmph in 5.9 seconds
• To include a 10.3 digital instrument cluster and a 15.30-inch touchscreen infotainment system
• Will come with multiple advance features
• CBU import confirmed

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

Volkswagen ID.4 Electric SUV

• Launch Date: Late 2024
• Type: Electric coupe SUV
• Expected to come with both AWD (All Wheel Drive) and RWD (Rear Wheel Drive) options
• Top-spec ID.4 GTX model possibly launching in India
• Produces a peak power of 299 bhp
• Could feature a 77 kWh battery pack
• Expected range delivery is around 480 km per charge

Also Read: Ford India Comeback With EV? Mustang EV Trademarked

Conclusion

All of the aforementioned EV models will be amongst the most premium options in the country. Also, all three EV variants listed above will be imported in the country via CBU route which will have a significant impact on their pricing. What would be interesting to see is which of the upcoming premium EV will hit the sweet spot amongst the Indian consumers.

Key Highlights

• BYD Seal details surface ahead of India launch
• Powertrain and features revealed
• To be imported via CBU route

BYD will soon be expanding its EV product lineup in India. The Chinese automaker will be introducing its third electric four wheeler in the country. As the rumor mill has been indicating, the next model from the brand heading to India is none other than the BYD Seal. The details related to the upcoming BYD electric sedan has been revealed right ahead of its March 5 launch.

Also Read: Volkswagen Confirms ID.4 Electric SUV India Launch In 2024

BYD Seal India Official Details Out

The BYD Seal India launch is confirmed for March 5, 2024. Right ahead of the launch, the electric sedan’s dedicated product page listing has been updated at the company official India website. The listing has also given us insights as to what we can expect from the brand’s third EV in the country when it comes to design and specifications.

That’s not it. The BYD Seal electric sedan’s pre-bookings have also gone live in the country. But the registrations are being done unofficially by several dealerships. It shouldn’t be long before BYD officially announces the booking details for its new premium EV India.

The test mule of the upcoming BYD electric sedan has also been spotted recently which confirmed the developments around its imminent launch. Nevertheless, reports indicate the BYD Seal will be made available via CBU route in India.

Also Read: BYD Seal Electric Sedan Spotted Testing In India: Should Tata, Mahindra Be Worried?

BYD Seal Full Design

The BYD Seal will be debuting as an electric sedan which is being developed on the Ocean X concept design. The Seal EV looks futuristic with this design language that comprises a sloping all-glass roofline, flush-door handle, split headlamps, and boomerang-shaped LED DRLs. Inside the cabin, the BYD Seal EV gets a 15.3-inch rotatable infotainment screen and a 10.3-inch digital instrument cluster.

Also Read: Skoda Enyaq Electric SUV Feb 27 India Launch Confirmed

BYD Seal India Variant Powertrain And Features

Since the BYD Seal is being imported as a CBU in India, it will have the same mechanics and features as the global model. Multiple rumors have indicated the availability of both RWD (Rear Wheel Drive) and AWD (All Wheel Drive) model of the Seal EB in India. But some reports hints otherwise and suggests the launch of the smaller battery pack model (82.5 kWh) in the country.

The electric sedan will use a single PMSM (Permanent Magnet Synchronous Motor) motor mounted on the rear axle and producing 230 hp, 260 Nm power and torque respectively. The BYD Seal EV can throttle to a max speed of up to 180 kmph where it takes just 5.9 seconds to accelerate from 0-100 kmph.

Key Highlights

• Both Ather 450X and 450S receives fresh feature updates
• Gets new chrome logo at the rear
• Also receives Belt protection

Ather Energy has logged itself as one of the strongest players in the two-wheeler EV industry despite being a startup. The brand recently introduced its high-speed electric scooter 450 Apex and is additionally gearing up for its first family e-scooter’s (Rizta) launch in the country. Meanwhile, the brand has upgraded its existing fleet with multiple features that will boost the ride performance of the select e-scooter models. The updates have been added to both Ather 450X and the Ather 450S e-scooters. Here are the details that you should know:

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

Ather 450X, 450S E-Scooters New Upgrades

Secure Belt Cover

In the latest update, both Ather 450X and the Ather 450S electric scooters have received a dedicated protection for the belt cover. The covering for these e-scooter’s belt drive is to added for an additional protection layering from various natural elements; specifically dust, dirt, and wet mud which becomes a menace during heavy rain.

There have been several complaints of unwanted belt noises that are encountered during the rainy seasons when the belt drive gets clogged with dirt and mud. This also impacts the overall performance of the e-scooters and eventually affects the longevity of belt drive.

With the new belt guard, both Ather 450X and Ather 450S e-scooters will deliver a consistent performance despite the weather and road conditions. Also, the brand believes the added belt cover protection will also cut down on the service centre visits eventually making these e-scooters more cost-friendly after years of usage.

Also Read: Ather 450 E-Scooter For Rs. 10 Coins? Epic EV Payment Mode Grabs All Headlines

Updated Chrome Badging

In addition to the belt protection, Ather has also re-worked the logo on both 450X and 450S electric scooter lineup. Buyers will now see a fresh badging which is outlined with a chrome finish. Just for reference, the previous badging had plastic finish instead of the chrome material. This new logo design of the Ather 450X and 450S e-scooters adds a premium touch overall to the looks.

Also Read: Interim Budget 2024: Govt’s Big Plans To Supercharge Electric Vehicle Growth

Any Changes In The Prices?

No official price change has been announced by Ather for these two e-scooters despite the new upgrades. The Ather 450X India price starts at Rs. 1.38 lakh, while the Ather 450S is up for grabs starting at Rs. 1.09 lakh in the country.

Key Highlights

• Tata WPL aka Women Premier League to begin soon
• Is a Women Twenty20 Cricket League similar to IPL
• Tata Punch.ev takes official car spot of the cricket match league

Tata seems to be leading the way in the current EV market in India. With its recently launched Punch.ev, it has definitely grabbed a larger chunk in the mid-range EV race. This car has now taken the top spot at the WPL 2024 (Women Premier League) where Tata is an official sponsor. What is this WPL 2024 and how significant is the Punch.ev’s top-spot positioning at the event? We have shared all the insight below:

Also Read: Volkswagen Confirms ID.4 Electric SUV India Launch In 2024

Tata Punch.EV: Official Car At WPL 2024

WPL also known as the Women Premier League is a T20 cricket league where only women can participate for the matches. It is similar to the popular IPL Twenty20 men’s cricket league where five different teams compete for the winner’s title. WPL is a new event where the first season was played back in 2023.

This year WPL 2024 is scheduled to start on February 23, 2024, i.e., today. This is a month long cricket league which will be concluded on March 17, 2024 where the final winning team will be awarded the WPL 2024 title. Tata Motors is the official title sponsor of WPL (Women Premier League) this year.

Tata has made this announcement via a post shared on its official X handle. The Punch.ev is the official car of the WPL 2024 event. Tata is apparently betting high on its latest EV in the Indian market and is promoting it heavily ceasing every opportunity it can.

Its not the first time Tata is promoting its car at the Twenty20 cricket tournament league. To recap, the Nexon EV was titled official car at the IPL 2018, following by the Harrier, Altoz, and Safari in 2019, 2020, and 2021 respectively. Last year, it was the Tiago EV which took the title for official car at IPL.

Also Read: BYD Seal Electric Sedan Spotted Testing In India: Should Tata, Mahindra Be Worried?

Tata Punch.ev: Quick Highlights

Just like the Nexon EV, Tata Punch.ev also coms in Medium Range and Long Range variant options. The base model (MR) is priced starting at Rs. 10.99 lakh and the top model of the Long Range variant goes up to Rs. 15.49 lakh (ex-showroom) in India.

The Punch.ev has been built on the Tata’s new-age Pure gen architecture, i.e.m Active.ev platform. The Long Range medium employs a 35 kWh battery module and the Medium Range model features a smaller 25 kWh battery.

Power output is 82 PS by the Medium Range and 122 PS for the Long Range variant along with 114NM and 192 Nm torque range respectively. As for the range, the Punch.ev Medium Range model covers 315 km on a full chargem while the Long Range model can travel to up to 421 km on a full charge. Both variants attains a top speed of up to 140 kmph.