Category: Auto Tech

Key Highlights

• Mahindra XUV.e9 spotted in Ladakh
• Tipped to be an electric coupe version of the upcoming XUV800
• To be built on INGLO platform

Mahindra is working intensively to get a hold of the evolving EV market in India. The brand is strategizing to populate this segment with multiple models in the next two years. The XUV.e and the BE lineup will help Mahindra move ahead in the EV segment while competing with other pioneers in the market. The upcoming Mahindra electric SUVs have been spotted on several occasions in the form of test mules. The latest sighting is the Mahindra XUV.e9 where the visuals of the camouflaged test mule comes directly from Ladakh.

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

Mahindra XUV.e9 Coupe E-SUV Design Approach

The Mahindra XUV.e9 test mule spotting in Ladakh hints the testing has begun for the upcoming electric coupe SUV. The electric SUV has been spotted parked between the Maruti Suzuki Swift Dezire and Alto. The design language is clearly evident in the leaked images despite the test mule being wrapped with heavy camouflage.

The design of the production ready XUV.e9 falls in line with the recently filed patent. It isn’t entirely a boxy profile that we will see with the XUV.e9 e-SUV. It rather has an aerodynamic approach which looks more premium with the closed off front, sharp bonnet, and sleek C-shaped LED DRLs.

The headlamps are also LED and the ORVMs will feature integrated turn indicators. Besides the turn indicators, the ORVMs on the Mahindra XUV.e9 are also said to feature cameras for 360-degree surround view.

The side profile takes for a neat approach complemented by the rounded fenders and sturdy alloy rims. The XUV.e9 electric coupe SUV’s futuristic design is further highlighted by the split aero rear spoiler and a shark fin antenna combined with the sloping roofline.

Cabin features will also be futuristic inside the XUV.e9 Coupe SUV. It is rumored to come with a large instrument console and infotainment screen that will cover up the dashboard. It could be a three-screen layout with advanced tech support.

Also Read: MG To Launch New EV During 2024 Festive Season: Comet-Based 5-Door E-SUV?

Mahindra XUV.e9 Powertrain

Mahindra XUV.e9	Powertrain Expected
Platform	INGLO
Drivetrain	RWD (Rear Wheel Drive) AWD (All Wheel Drive)
Battery	60 kWh 80 kWh
Range	500 km
Top Speed	200 kmph

Mahindra XUV.e9 will probably be launched with both RWD (Rear Wheel Drive) and AWD (All Wheel Drive) powertrain options. The former might be equipped with a smaller 60 kWh battery, while the latter could be powered by an 80 kWh battery.

Up to 200 kmph top speed and around 500 km range on a full charge is tipped by the rumor mill. This upcoming electric coupe SUV will be built on the INGLO platform which will be used for the remaining upcoming Mahindra electric cars and SUVs too.

Key Highlights

• Volkswagen ID.7 tourer EV debuts
• 77 kWh battery pack
• 15-inch touchscreen infotainment with ChatGPT integration

Volkswagen is initiating its electrification in India and meanwhile has added another premium EV to its collection. The German auto giant has now introduced the ID.7 Tourer in the European market loaded with plethora of futuristic features including ChatGPT voice enabled infotainment screen, electronically controlled panoramic sunroof, and more.

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

Volkswagon ID.7 Tourer EV Design

Volkswagen ID.7 wears the signature sleek EV attire but maintains the broader aspects to highlight the tourer design. With a dimension measuring 4,961 mm in length, 1,862 mm in width, and 1,536 mm in height it will offer a comfortable riding experience with long trips. It also gets a electronically controlled panoramic sunroof but it will be optional.

Cabin features of ID.7 tourer includes 15-inch touchscreen infotainment screen with an advanced IDA voice assistant tech along with ChatGPT integration. The latter will be added via an OTA (over-the-air) update after it’s made available in the market.

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

Volkswagen ID.7 Tourer EV Powertrain

Volkswagen ID.7	Powertrain
Motor	APP550
Battery options	77 kWh, 86 kWh
Range	685 km per charge
Top Speed	185 kmph

Volkswagen ID.7 Tourer has been introduced in multiple powertrain options and buyers will be able to opt from a 77 kWh and a 86 kWh battery model. Range delivery by the new premium tourer EV is 685 km per charge (WLTP). The ID.7 Tourer will take approx. 28 minutes for 10- 80 percent charging using a 175 kW fast charger.

The top-spec ID.7 Pro S variant will charge up slightly quicker with the supported 200 kW fast charger. The ID.7 Tourer drives with the APP550 electric motor which is mounted on the rear axle. Power output is 286 hp and acceleration speeds is also quick under 7 seconds for 0-100 kmph. The ID.7 Tourer EV speeds up max to 185 kmph.

Also Read: Top Electric Cars And SUVs Launched In 2024

Next After ID.4 In India?

Well, that remains uncertain at this point. But since the first stage of Volkswagen’s EV business strategy involves assessment of its popular global variant’s performance in the Indian market, its availability can’t be ruled out. But whether the brand will bring the standard ID.7 or the Tourer variant is something we will have to wait to find out.

Key Highlights

• Bounce Infinity E1 e-scooter receives 21 percent discount
• Prices drops by up to Rs. 24,000 off
• Now, retails under Rs. 90,000

Two wheeler EV industry is witnessing a sudden price drop trend. Recently, Ola Electric revealed Valentine’s special discount deals on S1 electric scooter lineup and now Bounce Infinity has also joined this race. The home grown two wheeler EV startup has put up its popular E1+ e-scooter with massive discounts in the country. Let’s check out the deals announced on the Bounce Infinity E1 e-scooter:

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

Bounce Infinity E1+ E-Scooter Price Drop Details

Bounce Infinity E1+	Price
Old Price	Rs. 1.13 lakh (ex showroom)
New Price	Rs. 89,999 (ex showroom)

In its latest move to boost up sales, Bounce Infinity has dished out a discount of up to 21 percent on the E1+ electric scooter range. The latest price cut brings down the prices of the E1+ electric scooter by Rs. 24,000 in India.

The Bounce Infinity E1+ electric scooter’s original retailing price has been Rs. 1,13,000 (ex showroom). But with the price slash, this e-scooter is up for grabs at just Rs. 89,999 (ex showroom). Additionally, the latest discount deal comes as a limited period offer which is applicable on the entire E1+ e-scooter range.

The offers on the Bounce Infinity E1+ will be valid only till March 31st after which the retailing price wil; be back to the original. Buyers can consider from six different color options of the E1+ e-scooter including Comet Gray, Sporty Red, Pearl White, and Desat Silver.

Also Read: Top Electric Cars And SUVs Launched In 2024

Worth A Deal?

The Bounce Infinity E1+ e-scooter utilizes a hub electric motor with 2.2 kW peak power and 85 Nm torque. It’s 2kWh detachable NMC battery setup which has IAS 156 certification. This e-scooter’s IDC range delivery with a full battery charge is up to 85 km.

Also, it is rated safe for riding with a standard top speed of 65 kmph. The lightweight Bounce Infinity E1+ e-scooter has disc brakes both at the front and rear aided by Combi braking system. When you look at the Bounce Infinity E1+ as an entire package and with the new discounted price, it does make for a worthy deal. Specifically, if you are considering it for a senior age group or a cost-effective mobility solution is what you are seeking at the point.

Key Highlights

• Ather begins 450 Apex production
• Deliveries expected soon
• Is priced starting at Rs. 1.89 lakh (ex showroom)

Ather Energy could soon start deliveries for its latest high-speed electric scooter, i.e., Apex 450. The development comes as the brand has commenced production for the new e-scooter at its manufacturing facility in the country. By when Ather could start Apex 450 deliveries in India and how much it is priced at? Let’s find out:

Ather 450 Apex E-Scooter India Availability

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#Ather450Apex starting to roll off the line pic.twitter.com/Y9KTKbVkxD

— Swapnil Jain (@swapniljain89) February 21, 2024

In a post on X, Ather Energy Co-Founder, Swapnil Jain revealed that the brand has started Apex 450 e-scooter production in India. The high-speed electric scooter will soon be up for grabs at the authorized dealerships in the country. The limited-edition 450 Apex e-scooter’s deliveries has been scheduled for March 2024 and with its productions kicking off Hosur facility we can be assured of its availability soon.

Also Read: Kia EV9 India Testing Begins: Spotted In Bare Bone Avatar

Ather 450 Apex Price In India

Ather 450 Apex e-scooter was launched with Rs. 1.89 lakh (ex-showroom) price in India. It is currently the most expensive e-scooter model in the 450 e-scooter lineup.

Also Read: River Indie Electric Scooter Prices Revised In India: Costly Commutes?

Ather 450 Apex: Top Highlights

The Ather 450 Apex e-scooter strikes out with its trendy looks comprising a unique color combination of blue and orange hues. What majorly grabs the attention with the 450 Apex’s design is the see-through side panels.

It gets several modern features ranging from LED headlamps to a touchscreen-enabled digital instrument console which has Bluetooth compatibility. The digital console of the 450 Apex displays important ride statistics and supports navigational features too.

Featuring an electric motor with 7kW power output, the Apex 450 delivers a 26 Nm torque. It features the same 3.7 kWh battery pack as the Ather 450X which offers 157 km range on a full charge. The e-scooter has a regenerative braking system that improves the range efficiency. The battery pack of the 450 Apex e-scooter gets a full charge under six hours. It offers a top speed of 100 kmph and takes 2.9 seconds to reach 0-40 kmph.

Key Highlights

• Volkswagen confirms ID.4 India launch
• Timeline set for 2024
• Powerful e-SUV with up to 480 km range

Volkswagen has just announced a new EV for the Indian market. The German car manufacturer is prepping up to introduce the ID.4 e-SUV in the country. The company is strategizing its electrification process which is segmented in three stages and the ID.4 comes as an initial part of it.

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

Volkswagen ID.4 India Launch: When Is It Scheduled?

The Volkswagen ID.4 will be launched this year itself in India. The first electric SUV’s 2024 launch has been confirmed by the car maker itself. The company revealed its plans to focus on the growing EV sector in India and how it is prioritizing this move. Volkswagen Passenger Cars India’s Brand Director, Ashish Gupta, shared the vision for the company’s electrification process which will be completed in three stages.

It’s worth adding that the ID.4 will be imported via CBU (completely built-up unit) route in the country. This will significantly impact the pricing of the upcoming e-SUV in the country. Considering the globally available ID.4 is premium model, we can expect it to be labelled with a hefty price tag. But the range would be difficult to guess this soon.

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

Volkswagen Vision To Strengthen Electric Portfolio In India

For this, Volkswagen will initially gauge the response from the Indian market by introducing some of its popular models available internationally. The ID.4 will play an integral role with executing the phase 1 of Volkswagen’s EV strategy in India.

In the second phase, the company will source parts and components from the local market to boost the production and by improving the local assembly. Lastly, the company aspires to localize its electrification process and scale up the production directly from the country. This is expected to be completed by 2026.

Also Read: Top Electric Cars And SUVs Launched In 2024

Volkswagen ID.4: What All Can We Expect?

Volkswagen ID.4	Specs
Drive Type	RWD, AWD
Power	299 bhp
Battery	77 kWh
Range	480 km

The Volkswagen ID.4 is available with multiple drivetrain options outside India. It comes with both RWD (Rear Wheel Drive) and AWD (All Wheel Drive) options. The Volkswagen ID.4 GTX model has a powerful spec-sheet where the motor churns out up to 299 bhp of power. An integrated 77 kWh battery pack drives the ID.4 to up to 480 km on a full charge.

Key Highlights

• Dacia Spring EV 2024 model launched
• Is based on Kwid EV platform and borrows Duster-like design
• Retains same powertrain as the existing Spring EV model

Dacia, Renault’s sister company has finally launched the updated Spring EV in the global market. The 2024 Dacia Spring EV comes along with a revamped design and new set of features while retaining the same powertrain as the old model. Let’s take a look at the upgrades which the latest Dacia Spring EV model gets over the previous-gen model:

Also Read: Kia EV9 India Testing Begins: Spotted In Bare Bone Avatar

2024 Dacia Spring EV Exterior Design: Upgrades Worth Noting

The Dacia Spring EV facelift 2024 model as mentioned above gets a major design overhaul and now looks more modern SUV with a boxy profile. It has taken design cues from the new-generation Dacia Duster and features a re-worked facia where the horizontal LED Daytime running lamps blends neatly with the grille.

The grille design also gets a makeover and is now painted in glossy black shade with hints of white accent. The fresh Dacia logo upfront also adds to the refreshing look combined with the primary headlamps which are positioned right below the bumpers.

The charging slot is also accommodated up front for convenient charging. Not much change is evident with the side profile and the design seems identical to the previous-gen model. Rear design also gets slight makeover and now there is Duster-like Y-shaped LED headlamp design.

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

What About The Interiors?

The Dacia Spring EV facelift’s interiors have also received a makeover. It now features a revamped dashboard which is also borrowed from the Dacia Duster. The cabin will offer a 7-inch digital intrument cluster and a bigger 10-inch infotainment display. Even the steering wheel integrated is redesigned and has new set of physical controls.

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

2024 Dacia Spring EV Powertrain

Dacia Spring EV	Powertrain
Motor	Single electric
Power	65 hp
Torque	113 Nm
Battery	26.8 kWh
Range	220 km

Under the hood, the 2024 Dacia Spring EV doesn’t get any new changes. It retains the same powertrain as the old-gen model which includes a single electric motor producing up to 65 hp peak power and 113 Nm torque.

Powering this new electric hatchback is a 26.8 kWh battery pack which delivers a suggested range of up to 220 km with a single charge. This EV can attain a top speed of up to 125 kmph with the acceleration speeds being 13.7 seconds for 0-100 kmph.

Key Highlights

• Hyundai Ioniq 7 to be introduced soon
• Is expected to be a three-row E-SUV
• Could share same platform as the Kia EV9

Hyundai has been in the EV game with the premium Ioniq series. Soon, the Korean car manufacturer will be expanding this range with another flagship model. The Ioniq 7 is set for unveiling within next few months at the Korean automobile fair, i.e., Busan International Motor Show (BIMS) 2024. What are the developments across the Ioniq 7 and what all can we expect it to offer in terms of mechanics and features? Take a look below for the details:

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

Hyundai Ioniq 7 Unveiling: When Is It Scheduled?

The timeline set for Hyundai Ioniq 7’s unveiling is suggested during the Busan International Motor Show 2024. The global motor show will take place in South Korea starting June 28, 2024. The Ioniq 7 is said to be the largest yet electric SUV from Hyundai which will promise a luxurious ride experience.

It is worth noting the fact that the Ioniq 7 has been spotted a couple of times being tested out in the wild. It will be joining the existing fleet which includes the Ioniq 5 crossover SUV and the Ioniq 7 electric sedan.

Mass production for the Ioniq 7 is expected to be underway and post its first unwrapping at the Busan International Motor show, the sales and deliveries will commence too. The suggested timeframe for its availability is by 2025. Initially, the Ioniq 7 will be made available for purchase in the U.S. and will gradually make its way to India and other markets.

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

Hyundai Ioniq 7: Kia EV9-Based Three- Row E-SUV?

Hyundai Ioniq 7	Expected Powertrain
Battery	76.1 kWh 99.8 kWh
Range	over 400 km per charge
Fast Charging	350 kW

Hyundai hasn’t shared any concrete information that could clarify the powertrain and features we can expect from the Ioniq 7. But as per the rumor mill, this e-SUV will share the same platform as the Kia EV9 which is also a premium range e-SUV available with dual battery pack options. The Ioniq 7 could come with a 76.1 kWh and a 99.8 kWh battery module option with a range delivery over 400 km on a full charge.

It is expected to be powered by a rear axle-mounted electric motor that will generate around 315 Nm of peak torque. It could support 350 kW fast charging with which it will take up to 25 minutes for a charge from 10- 80 percent. More details on the features should surface in the coming months.

Key Highlights

• Kinetic starts E-Luna deliveries
• Was launched this month in India
• Is priced starting at Rs. 69,990
• Pre-bookings also active

Kinetic Green re-introduced its legendary moped Luna with an all-electric powertrain this month itself in India. The brand launched its electric moped with an affordable price range starting under Rs. 70,000. Now, the deliveries for the E-Luna has also commenced in India. Here are all the details you should know including if it’s worth an investment:

Also Read: CFMoto Electric Sports Motorcycle In Works: New Ultraviolette F77 Rival?

Kinetic E-Luna Deliveries

Sulajja Firodia Motwani, CEO and Founder of Kinetic Green via a post of microblogging platform X confirmed the delivery commencement for the E-Luna in India. The company has started with the deliveries of its first electric moped in multiple Indian cities including Bilaspur, Bhubaeshwar, Nagpur, Pune, Lucknow, and Delhi.

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And the E Luna deliveries have started!! 💥

Some photos from Tirupati to Lucknow to Nagpur to Delhi to Bilaspur to Pune to Bhubaneswar….

The e Mobility revolution is here ⚡️! @MHI_GoI @PMOIndia @nitin_gadkari @KineticgreenEV pic.twitter.com/shOPO0RIWI

— Sulajja Firodia Motwani (@SulajjaFirodia) February 16, 2024

The post also has some of the images of the deliveries being done at the Kinetic showrooms for the new e-moped. Just for reference, the E-Luna electric moped pre-bookings started before its official launch and one can book a unit with a small token amount. Let’s take a look at the pricing:

Also Read: River Indie Electric Scooter Prices Revised In India: Costly Commutes?

Kinetic E-Luna Pre-Bookings, And Price

Kinetic E-Luna Model	Price
E-Luna X1	Rs. 69,999
E-Luna X2	Rs. 74,990

The Kinetic E-Luna can be pre-booked at just Rs. 500. One can visit the official website or the nearby dealerships for the same. Speaking of the prices, the Kinetic E-Luna starts at Rs. 69,999 in India. This is the cost of the base model, i.e., the Kinetic E-Luna X1 variant which is integrated with a 1.7 kW battery pack.

The price for the E-Luna X2 model is set at Rs. 74,990 and this variant features a bigger 2 kWh battery pack. The E-Luna has been launched in multiple color options which include Pearl Yellow, Sparkling Green, Mulberry Red, Ocean Blue, and Night Star Black.

Also Read: mXmoto M16 Cruiser Electric Bike Launched In India: Metal Body, 220 KM Range, And More

Should You Buy?

Kinetic E-Luna	E-Luna X1	E-Luna X2
Battery	1.7 kWh	2 kWh
Range	90 km	110 km
Top Speed	50 kmph	50 kmph
Charging time	3 hours	4 hours

Before we share our opinion, let’s take a quick look at the powertrain and features which E-Luna offers. You can opt from dual battery pack options including 1.7 kWh and 2 kWh. Range delivery by the Luna X1 model is 90 km, while the X2 model offers up to 110 km range on a full charge.

Performance-wise, the Kinetic E-Luna is a decent two-wheeler electric moped. It is more utility-oriented which deems it fit for consumers of all age groups.

Key Highlights

• MG set to launch new EV in India
• Will be the third model
• Could be Comet-Based 5 Door E-SUV

MG Motors is working on a new EV which it plans to bring to the Indian market soon. The company currently is offering two EV models in the country namely MG Comet EV and the MG ZS EV. While the third model’s name isn’t confirmed just yet, its possible launch timeline has been tipped by the brand itself. Which EV model MG could launch next in India and by when? Find out the details here:

Also Read: Tata Motors India EV Roadmap: List Of Confirmed Tata Electric Cars And SUVs

MG Motors Upcoming Electric CarIn India

As per the MD of MG Motors, Rajeev Chaba, an all new electric car from the brand will be debuting soon in India. The upcoming electric car will be the first model that will the brand is set to release post its collaboration with SAIC Motor and JSW Group. The former is MG Motor’s parent company, while the latter is an venture headed by Sajjan Jindal.

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

MG Motors is expected to launch its next-gen EV around the festive season in India this year. This means the due timeline is towards the end of 2024. An exact date remains to be specified by the company but that development should come around once the moniker is finalized for the new MG electric car.

Nevertheless, MG is planning to expand its presence in the Indian market and will likely launch multiple models in the coming years. The upcoming EV will be a strategic move to boost its presence in the market. And besides luxury SUVs, MG Motors is keeping the affordable segment too in consideration. This makes us believe the upcoming EV could be introduced in the mid-range segment which has more potential buyers when we look at the current market scenario.

Also Read: Top Electric Cars And SUVs Launched In 2024

Will It Be Comet-Based 5-Door E-SUV?

Since there is no confirmation officially, we are anticipating MG to introduce the Baojun Yep Plus in the country. To recap, Baojun Yep Plus is a recently launched Comet-based 5-door electric SUV launched recently in the international markets. We might see it to carry an MG branding while entering the Indian market.

This e-SUV employs a rear axle mounted motor which produced 68 hp of peak power and 140 Nm torque. Backed by a 28 kWh battery module the Baojun Yep Plus can deliver a range of up to 431 km on a full charge and attain a top speed of up to 150 kph.

Key Highlights

• Paytm Fastags to be discontinued from March 2024
• New list of banks announced by NHAI for Fastag services
• Deactivating existing Paytm Fastag mandate

Paytm Payments Bank has been taking a hit with the RBIs latest declaration of its ban. It certainly created a sense of panic amongst thousands of Paytm Bank account holders who using its services. Not just that, NHAI also issued a fresh guideline citing a ban on Paytm Fastags starting next month in the country. It is now mandate to deactivate a Paytm-linked Fastag to get a new one from an authorized bank. But what are the steps you need to follow to deactivate a Paytm Fastag and apply for a new Fastag from different bank. Take a look below:

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

When Will Paytm Fastag Stop Working?

The Paytm FasTag will stop functioning starting March 15, 2024. This is the new extended deadline for deactivating an old Paytm FasTag and apply for a fresh one. We previously have covered the list of all the 32 banks from where you can apply for a new Paytm FasTag. But before buying a new FasTag, follow the steps below to deactivate Paytm FasTag.

Also Read: Paytm FasTags Invalid From This Date: Why Should You Deactivate Paytm Fastags?

Steps To Deactivate Paytm FasTag In India

Step 1: Launch the Paytm mobile application on Android or iOS devices

Step 2: Scroll to the “Banking Services & Payments”

Step 3: Tap on the FasTag option

Step 4: Now, select the “Chat with us” option

Step 5: You can now request the customer care executive to deactivate the Paytm FasTag account

Also Read: mXmoto M16 Cruiser Electric Bike Launched In India: Metal Body, 220 KM Range, And More

Other Method To Deactivate Paytm FasTag

Step 1: Dial Paytm toll-free helpline number 1800-120-4120 to request for FasTag cancellation

Step 2: Enter your registered mobile number with which FasTag services have been registered on your account

Step 3: Now, feed in the the VRN (Vehicle Registration Number) which is linked with the FasTag. You also need to enter Tag ID (FasTag ID).

Step 4: Once the Paytm customer care executive joins the call, ask for FasTag deactivation.