Report Wire

Tag: Auto

  • Ducati Hypermotard 698 Mono To Launch In India Soon? Check what’s revealed | Auto News

    Ducati India has recently teased the Hypermotard 698 Mono on its social media channels, signalling an upcoming launch. This model marks Ducati’s return to single-cylinder bikes after decades, with the Hypermotard 698 Mono expected to be introduced in India in two variants: Standard and RVE.

    Powerhouse Engine

    The Hypermotard 698 Mono is expected to come with 659cc, liquid-cooled Superquadro Mono engine. This engine produces an impressive 77.5 bhp at 9,750 rpm and 63 Nm of torque at 8,000 rpm, making it the world’s most powerful single-cylinder engine. For those seeking even more power, the optional Termignoni race exhaust boosts these figures to 84.5 hp and 67 Nm.

    Design

    The Hypermotard 698 Mono sports a striking design. Key elements include an LED headlight with a distinctive long beak, a sleek fuel tank, and a streamlined side and tail section. True to Ducati’s Hypermotard styling, the twin exhaust pipes are positioned just under the tailpiece.

    Features

    The chassis of he Hypermotard 698 Mono comprises a steel trellis frame and a steel-tube subframe, complemented by an aluminum swingarm. Suspension duties are handled by an adjustable Marzocchi USD fork at the front and a Sachs monoshock at the rear. The bike features a six-speed gearbox paired with a slip-and-assist clutch. While the RVE variant includes a quickshifter as standard, the base variant offers it as an optional upgrade. The braking system of the vehicle features Brembo M4.32 brake calipers at the front, gripping a 330mm disc, and a 245mm disc at the rear with a single-piston floating caliper. The Hypermotard 698 Mono might come equipped with three power modes, cornering ABS, four ride modes, traction control, and wheelie control. These settings are accessible via a 3.8-inch LCD instrument cluster.

  • Renault Unveils Grand Koleos SUV; Check Design, Features, And Other Details | Auto News

    Renault has revealed its latest offering, the Grand Koleos SUV, at the ongoing Busan Motor Show 2024. This new model, comparable in size to the Tata Safari, features a dual motor petrol-hybrid powertrain and a modern interior equipped with multiple screens.

    Design and Features

    Externally, the Grand Koleos is a Korean adaptation of the Geely Xingyue L SUV sold in China. It features distinct cosmetic changes, including a new borderless grille, unique alloy wheel designs, and specific tweaks to the front and rear bumpers. Despite these changes, much of the sheet metal and platform is shared with the Xingyue L.

    Inside, the Grand Koleos boasts three 12.3-inch screens: one for instrumentation, a central infotainment screen, and a third screen for the front passenger. The SUV also includes a panoramic sunroof, leather seats, wood and faux aluminium trim, and an infotainment system with 5G connectivity and OTA updates.

    Powertrain and Performance

    The Grand Koleos is powered by a 1.5-litre turbo-petrol engine paired with a twin-motor hybrid setup, delivering a total of 245hp. The SUV comes standard with multiple drive and terrain modes, enhancing its versatility and performance.

    Availability in India

    While Renault previously sold the Koleos in India, the Grand Koleos will likely remain exclusive to the Korean market for now. However, Renault has plans to launch the Duster and Bigster SUVs in India starting next year. Additionally, Renault’s existing lineup in India is set to receive minor updates and a new top-spec sporty variant for the Kiger SUV.

  • 2024 Jawa 350 Launched with Alloy Wheels and New Colours; Check Details | Auto News

    The 2024 Jawa 350 has received notable updates, just months after its initial launch in India. These updates include the introduction of a new alloy wheel variant and four new colour options. Responding to customer feedback, Jawa has introduced alloy wheels with tubeless tyres for the Jawa 350. Priced at an additional Rs 10,000, this upgrade simplifies puncture repairs. Unlike wire-spoke wheels with tube-type tyres, which require unmounting the tyre and removing the tube to fix a puncture, tubeless tyres can be more easily repaired, saving time and effort. For those who prioritize aesthetics, the traditional wire-spoke wheels are still available.

    New Colour Options

    Jawa has expanded its colour palette for the Jawa 350. The new solid colours include Obsidian Black, Grey, and Deep Forest. Additionally, the Chrome series has been updated with a new White colour, which joins the existing Maroon, Black, and Mystique Orange options.

    Powertrain

    The Jawa 350 remains mechanically unchanged. It continues to be powered by a 334cc, single-cylinder, liquid-cooled engine, producing 22bhp and 28.2Nm of torque. This engine is mated to a six-speed gearbox.

    Chassis and Suspension

    The bike features a dual-cradle chassis, supported by a telescopic front fork and a five-step preload-adjustable dual shock absorbers at the rear. For braking, it is equipped with a 280mm front disc and a 240mm rear disc, both with dual-channel ABS. The starting price for the Jawa 350 is Rs 1.99 lakh, ex-showroom, with the Chrome series starting at Rs 2.14 lakh. The addition of alloy wheels is priced at Rs 10,000 extra.

  • 2025 Hero Destini 125 Leaked Just Before Launch; Check what’s been revealed | Auto News

    Hero MotoCorp is gearing up to launch a significantly redesigned version of the Destini 125 in 2025. The new 2025 Hero Destini 125 will compete with popular models such as the Honda Activa 125, Suzuki Access, TVS Jupiter, and Yamaha Fascino.

    Expected Design

    The 2025 Hero Destini 125 is expected to feature a completely revised design that gives it a more premium look compared to its predecessor. According to the reports the new bodywork of the Destini includes smaller LED turn indicators integrated into a stylish copper trim piece. This copper accent is also found on the mirrors, side panels, and tail lights, adding a contemporary flair to the scooter’s appearance.

    Features

    Among the new color options, Black Pearl stands out, paired with brown panels and a matching seat cover for a sophisticated contrast. Other notable aesthetic enhancements include an LED headlamp, alloy wheels, a rear grabrail with a pillion backrest, and a silver heat shield on the exhaust. These features not only elevate the scooter’s visual appeal but also enhance its functionality.

    Powertrain

    Under the hood, the 2025 Destini 125 is expected to retain the reliable 124.6cc single-cylinder air-cooled engine found in the current model. This engine produces 9 BHP at 7000 RPM and 10.4 Nm of torque at 5500 RPM, mated to a continuously variable transmission (CVT) for smooth performance.

    The new Destini 125 will likely carry over the telescopic front suspension from its predecessor, ensuring a comfortable ride. A notable upgrade in the 2025 model is the anticipated addition of a front disc brake, which will significantly enhance braking performance and safety, bringing it in line with other competitors in the segment.

  • BMW 5 Series LWB to launch in India on July 24; Check What’s New | Auto News

    BMW is gearing up launch the new 5 Series in India on July 24. Notably, the company is introducing a long-wheelbase (LWB) version for the first time. Read here to know all about this vehicle.

    Design

    The latest-generation BMW 5 Series LWB measures 5,175mm in length, 1,900mm in width, and 1,520mm in height, with a wheelbase of 3,105mm. This makes it 145mm longer than the regular 5 Series sedan, with an additional 110mm in the wheelbase. While these dimensions are for the Chinese model, some adaptations like a right-hand drive setup and slightly increased ground clearance are expected for the Indian market.

    Exterior Features

    The extended length of the 5 Series LWB is noticeable, similar to the 3 Series Grand Limousine available in India. Unlike the E-Class LWB, which features a separate quarter glass and unique door design, the 5 Series LWB’s rear door resembles the standard model without a rear quarter glass. The LWB variant retains the headlamp and tail-lamp design, and the illuminated grille of the standard car, along with minor tweaks to the front and rear bumpers in some variants. In China, the 5 Series LWB sports an illuminated ‘5’ on the C-pillar, a feature that adds a distinctive touch but is absent in the standard 5 Series.

    In China, the 5 Series LWB boasts an array of luxurious features such as 4-zone climate control, quilted upholstery, and a dual-tone design. A standout feature is the 31.1-inch display that folds down from the headliner, offering 8K resolution and 5G compatibility. Paired with the Bowers & Wilkins surround sound system, it promises an immersive on-the-go entertainment experience. It is anticipated that most of these features will be available in the India-spec model as well.

  • Ather Rizta Production Kicks Off; First E-Scooter Rolls Out From Plant | Auto News

    Ather Energy has officially commenced production of its newest electric scooter, the Rizta. The company has rolled out the first production-spec Rizta from their state-of-the-art manufacturing facility. Tarun Mehta, Co-founder and CEO of Ather Energy announce the news on the Twitter. “The first production versions of Rizta are starting to roll off the line now!” he tweeted, signaling the company’s readiness to deliver this eagerly awaited scooter to the market.

    Design and Features

    The Ather Rizta includes Ather’s proprietary SkidControl technology and even integrates WhatsApp functionality on the dashboard. The Rizta comes in two models and three variants: Rizta S and Rizta Z with a 2.9 kWh battery, and the top-end Rizta Z with a 3.7 kWh battery. The 2.9 kWh variants offer a predicted IDC range of 123 km, while the 3.7 kWh variant promises a range of 160 km. The Rizta S is available in three monotone colours, whereas the Rizta Z comes in seven colours, including four dual-tone options.

    Battery and Charging Solutions

    Ather offers an optional five-year/60,000 km warranty program called ‘Ather Battery Protect,’ which ensures a minimum of 70% battery health at the end of the warranty period. For home charging, the Rizta S and Rizta Z with a 2.9 kWh battery come with a 350W portable charger, while the 3.7 kWh Rizta Z is equipped with a 700W Ather Duo charger. Rizta owners will also benefit from Ather’s extensive fast-charging network, comprising over 1800 fast charging points across the country.

    Availability and Pricing

    Bookings for the Ather Rizta are now open, with deliveries set to commence soon. The Rizta S with a 2.9 kWh battery is priced at INR 1,09,999 (ex-showroom Bengaluru), the Rizta Z with a 2.9 kWh battery at INR 1,24,999, and the top-end Rizta Z with a 3.7 kWh battery at Rs 1,44,999.

  • Mercedes EQA to launch in India on July 8; What do we know so far? , Auto News

    Mercedes-Benz India is gearing up to expand its electric vehicle lineup with the launch of the EQA SUV on July 8, 2024. This addition will bring the total number of Mercedes EVs in India to four including the EQB seven-seat SUV, EQE SUV , and EQS sedan. Read here to know all about this upcoming EV.

    EQA-Facelift

    The EQA which will be launched in India is the facelifted model unveiled in August last year. This electric SUV boasts a sleek, crossover-like design that stands out from the more upright EQB. Notable exterior features include a grille panel adorned with Mercedes’ signature star pattern and a full-width light bar at the front. The rear design closely mirrors that of the EQB.

    Interior Highlights

    Inside, the EQA features a luxurious cabin with a star pattern on the dashboard and door trims, which are backlit to create an ambiance reminiscent of the S-Class and EQS. The India-spec model is expected to come with a touch-capacitive three-spoke steering wheel, a digital driver display, a 10.25-inch touchscreen running the latest OS, and a premium Burmester sound system with Dolby Atmos. This sound system offers four distinct ‘sound experiences’, including ‘silver waves’ and ‘vivid flux. It remains uncertain if the optional open-pore wood trim will be available in the India-spec model.

    Engine and Range Options

    While specific battery details for the India-spec EQA are not yet confirmed, international variants of the EQA come in four versions: EQA 250, EQA 250+, EQA 300 4Matic, and EQA 350 4Matic. The EQA 250+ variant features a 70.5kWh battery with a range of up to 560km (WLTP), while other variants have a 66.5kWh battery with a maximum range of 528km (WLTP).

    Price Estimate

    The pricing for the EQA in India is expected to be slightly lower than the EQB, which currently retails at Rs 77.75 lakh. As an entry-level electric SUV, the EQA will compete with the Volvo XC40 Recharge and C40 Recharge (priced between Rs 54.95 lakh and Rs 62.95 lakh) and the BMW iX1 (priced at Rs 66.90 lakh).

  • Mercedes-Benz C300 AMG Line Launched at Rs 69 Lakh; Check Features, Performance And Other Details | Auto News

    Mercedes-Benz has introduced updates to its popular C-Class model range in India, including the launch of the new C300 AMG Line priced at Rs 69 lakh. The C-Class continues to be available in three trims: C200, C200d, and the newly introduced C300 AMG Line, replacing the older diesel-powered C300d AMG Line. The ex-showroom prices for the C200 and C200d are Rs 61.85 lakh and Rs 62.85 lakh, respectively. Additionally, the high-performance C43 AMG is available for Rs 98.25 lakh (ex-showroom).

    Mercedes-Benz C300 AMG Line: New Features and Enhancements

    The C300 AMG Line boasts a refreshed exterior featuring sportier design elements, including revised front and rear bumpers and the distinctive AMG Line front grille with 3D effects. New Manufaktur color options such as Patagonia Red Bright and Sodalite Blue add to its appeal.

    Inside, the C300 AMG Line includes the ‘Night Package’ as standard, providing a blacked-out interior treatment. It comes equipped with premium features like a Burmester 3D surround sound system, digital lights, augmented reality navigation, blind spot assist, and a keyless-go comfort package.

    Performance and Engine Specifications

    Under the hood, the C300 AMG Line is powered by a 2.0-litre, four-cylinder turbo-petrol engine paired with a 48V mild-hybrid system. This setup produces 255 bhp and 400 Nm of torque. The integrated starter generator (ISG) offers an additional output of 22 bhp and 205 Nm, with an overboost function that provides an extra 27 bhp for about 30 seconds. The engine is mated to a 9-speed automatic gearbox, enabling a 0-100 kmph sprint time of 6 seconds and a top speed of 250 kmph.

    Updates to C200 and C200d

    The updates are not limited to the C300 AMG Line. The C200 and C200d variants have also received new features, including heated and ventilated front seats, a 360-degree camera, six fast-charging USB-C ports, and adaptive high beam assist.

    GLC SUV: Enhanced Features and Revised Pricing

    Mercedes-Benz has also updated its best-selling SUV in India, the GLC, with new features. These include heated and ventilated front seats and additional side rear airbags, increasing the total airbag count to nine. Consequently, the prices for the GLC have been revised. The GLC 300 4Matic is now priced at Rs 75.90 lakh, while the GLC 200d is priced at Rs 76.90 lakh (both ex-showroom).

  • Audi Introduces New Rear-Wheel Drive Variant of Q6 e-Tron; Check Details | Auto News

    Audi has expanded its Q6 e-Tron lineup with a new and more efficient variant, the Q6 e-Tron Performance. This rear-wheel drive model promises increased range compared to its all-wheel drive counterparts, further enhancing the appeal of Audi’s electric SUV range.

    Efficiency and Range

    The Q6 e-Tron Performance is equipped with a 100 kWh lithium-ion battery (94.9 kWh net), powering a single motor mounted on the rear axle. This configuration results in a superior range of 641 km on a single charge, according to WLTP standards, which is 16 km more than the all-wheel drive variant. This improvement in range is a significant advantage for drivers seeking longer journeys without frequent charging stops.

    Performance Specifications

    The rear-wheel drive Q6 e-Tron Performance features a single electric motor delivering 240 kW (322 bhp). While this output is lower than the 382 bhp of the Q6 e-Tron Quattro and the 510 bhp of the SQ6, it still provides impressive performance. The vehicle can accelerate from 0 to 100km/h in 6.6 seconds. Additionally, Audi claims that with an appropriate fast charger, 260 kilometers of range can be added in just 10 minutes.

    Features and Design

    Apart from the rear-wheel drive powertrain, the Q6 e-Tron Performance maintains the same visual and functional features as the other variants in the Q6 e-Tron lineup. The interior boasts a sophisticated dashboard with a triple screen layout, including a 14.5-inch central curved touchscreen infotainment display, an 11.9-inch driver’s instrumentation screen, and a 10.9-inch infotainment unit for the front passenger.

    Advanced Technology and Features

    The Q6 e-Tron Performance is equipped with several high-tech features, such as an optional augmented reality heads-up display, connected car technology, and over-the-air (OTA) updates. These features ensure that the vehicle remains up-to-date with the latest software and technological advancements.

    Availability and Launch Details

    Deliveries for the all-wheel drive variants of the Q6 e-Tron are expected to begin in August this year. While the global market launch for the Q6 e-Tron is set for later this year, the India launch is anticipated next year. However, the launch date for the rear-wheel drive Q6 e-Tron Performance in India is yet to be confirmed.

  • First Look Of Meerut Metro Trains Unveiled As NCRTC Gets Delivery Of Trainsets | Railway News

    People of Meerut have been eagerly waiting for the commencement of the metro operations in the city and their desire to travel in one is going to turn into reality very soon. The National Capital Region Transport Corporation (NCRTC), the implementing agency of the Delhi-Ghaziabad-Meerut Regional Rapid Transit System (RRTS) corridor and Meerut Metro, today received the first trainsets for intra-city operations in the Western UP city. The first look of the Meerut Metro trainsets was unveiled today at Alstom’s Savli plan in Gujarat during an event when the NCRTC got the delivery of the trainsets.

    Meerut Metro Trains

    The trainsets were handed over to the NCRTC MD Vinay Kumar Singh by Alston while Union Minister for Housing & Urban Affairs (MoHUA) Hardeep Singh Puri attended the event virtually. Addressing the gathering, Puri said, “Since 2014, the government has laid emphasis on improving the quality of services offered to urban dwellers. Establishing a robust public transportation system in metropolitan cities is a fundamental aspect of our vision for India’s urban rejuvenation. From a meager 248 km of operational Metro lines in 2014, we have increased India’s state-of-the-art Metro network to 905 km today. RRTS & MRTS are vital components of this ongoing transformation. The tremendous progress made so far has incentivized us to achieve the target of making India the second largest Metro network in the world, even more quickly.”


    RRTS-Meerut Metro On Same Infra

    The NCRTC MD said that under Prime Minister Narendra Modi, India has seen tremendous growth in infrastructure development in the past few years and this enabling environment has facilitated the implementation of several transformative projects including the country’s first RRTS. “Both Namo Bharat trains and Meerut metro will run on the Delhi-Ghaziabad-Meerut RRTS infrastructure. The prospect of two distinct systems, RRTS and MRTS, operating concurrently on a single infrastructure is a vision now materializing. NCRTC has implemented the European Train Control. system (ETCS) Level 2 signaling with Hybrid Level 3 over Long Term Evolution (LTE), marking a pioneering endeavor in global rail transportation. It seamlessly integrates the RRTS and metro services within Meerut, allowing for closer headways and increased service frequency,” said the MD.

    The Meerut Metro project endeavors to offer a secure, rapid, and contemporary transportation option for the inhabitants of Meerut, Uttar Pradesh. As the delivery of Meerut Metro trainsets kicks off, preparations for trial runs are set to begin shortly.

    Features of the Meerut Metro Trainsets

    The design of the Meerut Metro embodies a contemporary aesthetic, placing emphasis on maximizing passenger comfort, safety, and security. The air-conditioned trains are equipped with amenities such as plush seating, luggage racks, grab handles, USB device charging ports, and other modern conveniences essential for today’s commuters.

    • The Meerut Metro will comprise of three (3) Car Train sets. It will have an ergonomically designed 2×2 transverse as well as longitudinal seating arrangement. More than 700 passengers can travel in a train. • State-of-the-art Modern Light Weight, Stainless steel coaches. • Comfortable standing space, luggage racks, CCTV cameras, mobile charging facility, dynamic route maps, infotainment system, illumination-based auto control ambient lighting system and other amenities. • Total adherence to safety by synchronizing Metro operation with Platform Screen Doors (PSDs) at all stations ensuring better crowd management. • Selective door opening via push buttons to reduce energy consumption, and safety measures like emergency egress devices, fire extinguishers, alarms, and talk-back systems are integrated. • Provision of space to carry medical stretcher in case of emergencies, space for wheelchair.

    Meerut Metro Route

    The Meerut Metro corridor extends across a distance of 23 km, encompassing 13 stations, with 18 km elevated and 5 km underground sections. Of these, 9 stations are elevated, 3 are underground, and one, the depot station, will be at grade level. The stations include Meerut South, Partapur, Rithani, Shatabdi Nagar, Brahampuri, Meerut Central, Bhaisali, Begumpul, MES Colony, Daurli, Meerut North, Modipuram, and Modipuram Depot.

    Additionally, four metro stations will offer Regional Rapid Transit System (RRTS) services, facilitating seamless interchange between RRTS and Metro services. These stations are Meerut South, Shatabdi Nagar, Begumpul, and Modipuram.

    Construction Status Of Delhi-Meerut RRTS

    Construction of the RRTS corridor and the Meerut Metro is going at a rapid pace with stations taking final shapes. The underground tunnel construction has been completed, and finishing touches are underway at the underground stations. Track laying activities are currently ongoing on completed tunnels and viaducts. Approximately 12 km of the 18 km elevated section’s viaduct construction has been finished, aided by the installation of over 10 launching gantries (Tarini) to expedite construction along the remaining section.

    Priority Corridor Inauguration

    Prime Minister Narendra Modi had inaugurated the 17-kilometre-long priority section between Sahibabad and Duhai Depot of Delhi-Meerut RRTS and flagged off the first Namo Bharat train on October 20 last year. The 17 km long stretch between Duhai and Modinagar North station is the next section of the RRTS corridor set to be operationalized for the public. This section encompasses a total of 3 stations: Murad Nagar, Modi Nagar South and Modi Nagar North. Currently, the trial runs are being conducted and it is expected to be operationalized for passenger operation very soon.

    Alstom, formerly known as Bombardier, had secured the manufacturing contract to produce 10 three-car trainsets for the Meerut Metro, along with a bundled maintenance service for a duration of 15 years. These trainsets boast a contemporary and streamlined design, emphasizing energy efficiency and lightweight construction. Equipped with a regenerative braking system, they are designed to be compatible with Automatic Train Protection (ATP), Automatic Train Control (ATC), and Automatic Train Operations (ATO) systems. Operating at a maximum speed of 120 kmph, these Metro trains promise a seamless and efficient commuting experience for passengers.