The first Hyundai Exter model to start series production is completed in the new khaki exterior paint option
Hyundai is now accepting bookings for the Exter for Rs 11,000.
The micro SUV will be launched on July 10.
The exterior features include H-shaped elements in the headlights and taillights, as well as roof rails.
It comes with a sunroof and digitized driver display compared to the Grand i10 Nios.
It shares the same petrol and CNG powertrains as the Grand i10 Nios.
Prices are expected to start from Rs 6 lakh (ex-showroom).
The Hyundai Exter has taken a step closer to its launch as it enters series production at the carmaker’s manufacturing facility in Sriperumbudur, Tamil Nadu. The first model produced is finished in the unique khaki color option. Hyundai is already accepting bookings for the micro SUV for Rs 11,000. Here’s everything you need to know about the Hyundai SUV:
A Bold Design
The Exter will be Hyundai’s new entry-level SUV. It has a bold look and features a typical boxy appearance, characterized by chunky wheel arches, body cladding, and roof rails. Other distinctive exterior elements include H-shaped LED DRLs and taillights, large skid plates, and chrome surround for the projector headlights.
Equipment Onboard
Hyundai has revealed some notable features of the Exter, such as a dual-camera dashcam, cruise control, an 8-inch touchscreen, digitized driver display, single-pane sunroof, and wireless phone charging.
The Exter’s safety features include six airbags, electronic stability control (ESC), hill assist, 3-point seatbelts, seatbelt reminders for all seats, and a reversing camera.
Powertrains On Offer
Since it is based on the same platform as the Grand i10 Nios, it shares its powertrains with the latter. It is equipped with a 1.2-liter petrol engine (83PS/114Nm) paired with either a 5-speed manual transmission or an AMT. The same engine will also be offered with an optional CNG kit, mated to the 5-speed manual transmission only.
The Exter will be available for sale on July 10, with prices expected to start from Rs 6 lakh (ex-showroom). It will compete with the Tata Punch, Citroen C3, and Maruti Fronx, while also taking on the Renault Kiger and Nissan Magnite.
The Malaysian-spec Toyota Innova Zenix gets the same powertrains as the India-spec Toyota Innova Hycross
The Innova Zenix is offered in only one feature-rich variant.
Gets the same design inside and out, save for an all-black cabin theme.
Features on board include a 10-inch touchscreen, a panoramic sunroof (hybrid only) and ADAS.
Prices range from RM 165,000 to RM 202,000, equivalent to Rs 28.96 lakh and Rs 35.45 lakh.
India-spec Innova Hycross is priced from Rs 18.55 lakh to Rs 29.99 lakh (ex-showroom Delhi).
Six months after entering the Indian market, the Toyota Innova Hycross has made its way into Malaysia, although rebranded as the “Innova Zenix.” While it has retained the powertrain options found in its Indian counterpart, Malaysian buyers are treated to a fully loaded variant. Here are the variant-wise prices of the MPV in the Southeast Asian nation:
Variant
Price
Petrol
RM 165,000 (Rs 28.96 lakh)
Strong-hybrid
RM 202,000 (Rs 35.45 lakh)
Same Design Formula
The Malaysian-spec Innova Zenix has the same design language inside and out as its Indian counterpart, including the same 18-inch alloy wheels, LED lighting, and honeycomb pattern for the grille. That said, it gets an all-black cabin theme, which we expect to find in the upcoming Maruti Invicto.
The Malaysian-spec petrol-powered Toyota MPV is available in an 8-seater layout while the hybrid variant can be had in only the 7-seater version.
A Similar Features List
Toyota is offering the Malaysia-spec Innova with a 10-inch touchscreen, 8-way powered driver seat, panoramic sunroof (hybrid variant only), a 7-inch digital driver’s display, and paddle shifters.
Safety kit includes a 360-degree camera, front and rear parking sensors, six airbags, and advanced driver assistance systems (ADAS). The ADAS suite consists of adaptive cruise control, forward collision warning, and lane departure assist.
The India-spec Innova Hycross offers all the kit mentioned above in its top variant too.
As mentioned earlier, the Malaysia-spec model also gets the choice of two petrol powertrains as the India-spec Innova Hycross. They are a 174PS 2-litre naturally aspirated unit, and a similar engine with the strong hybrid system rated at 186PS. The former gets a CVT option, and the latter comes with an e-CVT gearbox.
Premium Innova MPV At Home
The India-spec Toyota Innova Hycross is available in six broad variants, priced between Rs 18.55 lakh and Rs 29.99 lakh (ex-showroom Delhi). Its only direct rival will be the upcoming Maruti Invicto, while continuing to be a premium offering over the likes of the Kia Carens and Toyota Innova Crysta.
The Maruti Invicto will share its features and powertrain with the Toyota Innova Hycross
Based on the Innova Hycross, the Maruti Invicto has some visual differences.
Maruti is accepting bookings for the MPV for Rs 25,000.
New images reveal a revised grille with chrome slabs, tri-piece LED elements in the taillights, and different alloy wheels. The variant badge on the tailgate is missing.
The interior of the Maruti Invicto will have a black theme instead of the tan upholstery found in the Toyota MPV.
The Maruti Invicto is expected to come with a 2-liter strong-hybrid powertrain.
Features that are expected to be included are a 10-inch touchscreen, dual-zone AC, and a 360-degree camera.
We are just 10 days away from the launch of the Maruti Invicto, which is based on the Toyota Innova Hycross. Bookings for the MPV are currently open for Rs 25,000, and the launch is scheduled for July 5. Before the price announcement, the uncamouflaged model of the premium Maruti MPV has been spotted again, providing a clearer look at its design.
Any Visual Changes?
The Maruti MPV, which was spotted in a white shade, shares a similar design to the Innova Hycross, with the main difference being the tweaked grille. The Invicto now features twin chrome slats and a thick chrome underlining. The spotted model seems to be a lower variant of the Invicto as it lacks fog lamps and a panoramic sunroof, which are available on the top-spec Innova Hycross.
The Invicto also comes with a different set of alloy wheels, while the overall profile remains the same. At the back, the LED taillights feature a tri-piece element, similar to other modern Nexa offerings. Apart from the inclusion of the ‘Invicto’ moniker, the rest of the rear profile remains unchanged. The Invicto also lacks the variant badge that is found on its Toyota sibling.
Differences Inside The Cabin
As is typical of Maruti Nexa cars, the Invicto will have an all-black cabin theme (confirmed in one of its latest teasers). We don’t expect any other changes between the interiors of the two MPVs.
Maruti is also expected to include features from the Hycross, such as a dual-zone climate control, a 10-inch touchscreen, a digital driver’s display, and an ottoman function for the second-row captain seats.
In terms of safety, the Invicto is expected to have up to six airbags, electronic stability control (ESC), front and rear parking sensors, and a 360-degree camera. However, the spied Invicto model does not seem to have ADAS (advanced driver assist systems) like its Toyota counterpart.
If reports and dealer sources are correct, the Invicto will only be offered with the 184PS 2-liter strong-hybrid powertrain from the Innova Hycross. It will come with an e-CVT gearbox and offer a claimed mileage of 21.1kmpl.
However, this sighting contradicts an earlier report that stated the Maruti Invicto would be offered as a single fully loaded variant for booking. It is possible that the rebadged MPV will simply rearrange the equipment list from the Toyota MPV to lower its price.
Prices And Rivals
If the Invicto is offered as a hybrid-only model, Maruti is expected to price it starting from Rs 22 lakh (ex-showroom). Its direct competitor will be the Toyota Innova Hycross, while it will be positioned higher than the Maruti XL6 and Kia Carens in the MPV category.
The Rhino edition has been introduced in Malaysia with the SUV’s three-door version, limited to just 30 units
The Maruti Jimny Rhino edition only receives visual changes and there are no alterations to the features or powertrain.
Highlights of the Rhino edition include a vintage mesh grille, more cladding, decals, and the ‘Rhino’ badging.
The all-black interior remains unchanged, except for more premium foot mats.
It is equipped with the same 1.5-liter petrol engine with 4WD as the India-spec model.
The launch of the Maruti Jimny in India is expected in the future, with the possibility of other limited editions.
The Maruti Suzuki Jimny is available as a three-door model in various international markets. It is particularly popular in Malaysia, where it has received a stylish Jimny Rhino Edition. While the changes are purely cosmetic, its unique appearance is quite appealing. The ‘Rhino’ name is associated with Suzuki’s off-roading club, which consists of Jimnys and older Grand Vitaras.
Exterior Design Changes
The Jimny Rhino features an old-school grille with ‘Suzuki’ lettering instead of the logo. The mesh grille is surrounded by a dark chrome panel that also houses the round headlights. The front bumper has been slightly modified with new sturdy cladding.
On the hood, there are exclusive decals that also run along the sides of the vehicle. The mudguards are red, and there is a large decal along the bottom half of the door. The side of the vehicle is equipped with additional claddings to enhance its off-roading capabilities.
The rear profile remains unchanged, except for the ‘Rhino’ logo on the boot and a similar covering for the spare wheel.
The interior design remains unchanged, except for the addition of premium foot mats. It retains the same all-black theme without any upgraded features. While the Jimny in Malaysia is equipped with a 7-inch touchscreen system, the India-spec five-door model comes with a more premium 9-inch unit that includes wireless Android Auto and Apple CarPlay in the top variant.
No Changes To The Powertrain
The Jimny in India and Malaysia is powered by the same 1.5-liter four-cylinder petrol engine with 4×4 capability as standard. In India, buyers have the option of a 5-speed manual transmission or a 4-speed automatic transmission, while the three-door version in Malaysia is only available with the latter.
While it is too early to say for certain, it is possible that we may see this Jimny Rhino Edition or similar limited editions in India in the future. The Rhino Edition is considered a collector’s version as only 30 units will receive this treatment. In order to make it more appealing, it is expected that there will be special editions for the five-door Jimny in the coming years. The current price range for the Jimny in India is between Rs 12.74 lakh and Rs 14.89 lakh (ex-showroom).
Honda Racing Corporation factory team riders Chase Sexton, Hunter Lawrence, and Jett Lawrence swept the AMA Supercross championships, and now American Honda has officially announced the return of its 2024 CRF lineup. The Performance and Trail arms of the CRF family are coming back, along with the 2024 CB300R street bike.
The 2024 CRF Performance family consists of nine models, while the CRF Trail family includes four bikes. The CB300R stands alone as a street bike. Let’s start with the 2024 CRF450 lineup, which includes specific motocross bikes for different purposes.
The 2024 Honda CRF450 lineup is powered by a 449.8cc liquid-cooled, four-stroke single-cylinder engine. It features a Unicam overhead cam design with four valves. The intake valves are titanium and measure 38mm, while the exhaust valves are made of steel and measure 31mm.
The 2024 Honda CRF450R, the bike that dominated the 2023 AMA Supercross series, comes with a 44mm throttle body and Showa suspension. The 2024 Honda CRF450RWE (Works Edition) offers numerous upgrades, including a Yoshimura exhaust, D.I.D. DirtStar LT-X wheels, Twin Air air filter, Hinson clutch basket and cover, Renthal Kevlar grips, and more.
For those who prefer greater value, more off-road capability, or a street-legal version, Honda offers the 2024 CRF450R-S, CRF450RX, CRF450X, and CRF450RL, respectively.
On the trail side, riders can choose from the 2024 CRF250R, CRF250RX, CRF250F, CRF125F, CRF110F, and CRF50F. The CRF110F and CRF50F also come in white and bright color options.
The 2024 CB300R is the only street bike in the lineup, with other returning street models expected to be announced soon.
Here is a chart with pricing and availability information for the listed models:
Model
Color(s)
MSRP
Availability
2024 Honda CRF450R
Red
$9,699
July 2023
2024 Honda CRF450RWE
Red
$12,499
September 2023
2024 Honda CRF450R-S
Red
$8,899
August 2023
2024 Honda CRF450RX
Red
$9,999
July 2023
2024 Honda CRF450X
Red
$9,899
September 2023
2024 Honda CRF450RL
Red
$10,099
October 2023
2024 Honda CRF250R
Red
$8,299
July 2023
2024 Honda CRF250RX
Red
$8,699
July 2023
2024 Honda CRF150R
Red
$5,399, or $5,599 for the Big Wheel version
August 2023
2024 Honda CRF250F
Red
$4,999
September 2023
2024 Honda CRF125F
Red
$3,499 or $3,899 for the Big Wheel version
July 2023
2024 Honda CRF110F
Red, White
$2,699
July 2023
2024 Honda CRF50F
Red, White
$1,799
July 2023
2024 Honda CB300R
Matte Black Metallic, Pearl Dusk Yellow
$5,149
July 2023
Pricing and availability may vary in different regions. For the most accurate information, contact your local authorized Honda dealer.
# Ola Electric Starts Construction On New Gigafactory Facility In India
On June 21, 2023, Ola Electric announced that it was beginning the construction of its new Gigafactory facility in Tamil Nadu, India. To commemorate this milestone, the company held a ceremony and shared a video of the installation of the first pillar of the new construction on its official Instagram account.
Once completed, the new Ola Electric Gigafactory facility will cover an area of 115 acres and will add to the manufacturing capacity of the company’s first manufacturing hub called Futurefactory. The company aims to have the Gigafactory fully operational by early 2024 if everything goes according to plan. Given Ola Electric’s track record of building the 500-acre Futurefactory and quickly starting manufacturing operations, achieving this goal seems feasible.
In addition to the Gigafactory construction, Ola Electric has been keeping itself in the news with the upcoming launch of its new S1 electric scooter, which its CEO Bhavish Aggarwal has been teasing. This, along with its impressive manufacturing expansion plans, will help the company maintain its position and attract more riders and potential customers in India.
However, Ola Electric also faces challenges as it continues its growth in line with India’s electrification goals. The company’s social media channels reveal some customer complaints about its services and products, although the company promptly responds to these comments with direct messages, promising to address the issues.
While the company initially focused on electric two-wheelers, it also made headlines in February 2023 when it announced plans to invest $920 million in the production of its own electric cars and batteries. All of these vehicles, including two-wheeled and four-wheeled ones, will be manufactured in Tamil Nadu. Ola Electric aims to produce 140,000 electric cars per year once it reaches full production capacity. Furthermore, the company has expressed interest in expanding beyond India’s EV market and exploring opportunities in neighboring countries like Nepal, Southeast Asia, Latin America, and the European Union.
Ola Electric’s current hashtag of choice is #EndICEAge, underscoring its commitment to replacing internal combustion engines with electric vehicles. As the company’s journey continues, we will provide updates on any future developments.
Related articles:
1. [Indian EV Manufacturer Ola Electric Set To Begin IPO Discussions](https://www.rideapart.com/news/672340/ola-electric-ipo-update-2023/)
2. [Ola Electric Launches New Variants For S1 And S1 Air Scooters](https://www.rideapart.com/news/651822/ola-electric-s1-s1air-battery-variants/)
Among the many Chinese motorcycle manufacturers, CFMoto is highly regarded in the industry. The company has partnered with Austrian giant KTM and manufactures 790 engines for KTM. CFMoto also offers its own versions of the KTM 790 Duke and Adventure known as the 800 NK and 800 MT, or Ibex 800 in the U.S. market.
In addition to establishing a presence in North America, CFMoto has recently released several new models in China, including the 450 NK. This lightweight naked bike is based on the existing 450 SR model, which is marketed as the 450 SS in the U.S.
The standout feature of the 450 NK is its engine. This sportbike boasts a 449cc, liquid-cooled, fuel-injected, parallel-twin engine with a 270-degree crankshaft. This configuration delivers a powerful sound and similar power delivery to a 90-degree V-twin, resembling Yamaha’s 700cc motorbikes. With 50 horsepower at 10,000 rpm, it is expected to offer impressive performance comparable to the 450 SR.
From a design perspective, the 450 NK features a modern look with sleek, angular bodywork that enhances its athletic appearance. It is equipped with modern technology, including a full-color TFT display, full LED lights, and a lightweight aluminum swingarm. Thanks to its lack of fairings, the 450 NK is even lighter than the acclaimed 450 SR, weighing just 175 kilograms. This makes it one of the lighter twin-cylinder naked bikes on the market.
Like all CFMoto models, the 450 NK comes equipped with premium components sourced from established OEMs in the industry. For instance, it features an inverted front fork and link-type monoshock suspension from KYB, Brembo sub-brand J.Juan’s radial four-piston caliper and dual-channel ABS for brakes, and Bosch’s electronic fuel-injection system. The bike also offers smartphone connectivity with Bluetooth and navigation capabilities.
Considering the positive reception of CFMoto’s NK range in Asia and Europe, it is highly likely that the 450 NK will be exported to other markets. In China, it is priced at 28,580 Yuan, which equates to around $3,980 USD. If it reaches Europe and the U.S., it is anticipated to retail for approximately $5,000 USD.
The 2023 BMW X1 might be the most affordable Sports Utility Vehicle (SUV) in the Bavarian carmaker’s lineup. For the vehicle’s third generation, BMW gives the X1 a complete redesign. The new BMW X1 is bigger, bolder, and smarter while retaining a price tag that still makes it appealing to families looking for an entry-level luxury compact SUV.
The comprehensive upgrade might make you look at the 2023 BMW X1 twice, as the two-row SUV closely resembles its more premium X3 and X5 siblings. The latest X1 is wider, taller, and longer compared to the 2022 model. It looks chunkier with more aggressive lines and a less rounded exterior silhouette. The transformation is carried over to the interior, which clearly reflects the design ethos of BMW.
Aside from the cohesive makeover, BMW installed a more potent yet efficient engine under the hood of the X1. The vehicle is also packed with technologies to make the ride comfortable, safe, and pleasurable to the driver and passengers. Here are the best features of the 2023 BMW X1 that will help put it on top of the list of competition such as the Volvo XC40, Mercedes-Benz GLB, or the Land Rover Range Rover Evoque.
Looking at information from BMW, Kelley Blue Book, and Edmunds, we have put together a list of the best features of the 2023 BMW X1.
1The 2023 BMW X1 Sports A More Aggressive Exterior
BMW
A front action shot of an orange 2023 BMW X1 crusing on the road
Gone are the days when the X1 is the humblest of the Sports Activity Vehicle (SAV) brood of the BMW fleet. Aside from impressive 2023 BMW X1 specs sheets, the new iteration of the X1 represents a big leap in design that is meant to showcase the ride’s more adventurous character. Compared to the older model, the new X1 is 1.7 inches longer (177.2 inches), 0.9 inch wider (72.6 inches), and 1.7 inches taller (64.6 inches).
The bolder design makes use of more sculpted surfaces. The distinct kidney grille complements the more pronounced front end of the new BMW X1. The sides also evoke a more rugged look with flared wheel arches and a long roofline. Meanwhile, the rear further emphasizes the wider profile of the compact SUV manufactured by BMW at its Regensburg plant in Germany.
Other elements such as the standard 18-inch rims, black trim on the lower edge of the X1’s body, and exciting headlight design go consistent with the muscular stance of the ride.
2Spacious Interior Combining Comfort, Luxury, And Functionality
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BMW
Interior of the 2023 BMW X1 showing front seats, windshield, and dashboard.
The boxier dimension of the new BMW X1 translates to a roomier interior that seats five adults with enough headroom and legroom to boot. The seats in the 2023 BMW X1 were newly developed. Perforated leather-alternative SensaTec completes their tailored look, and more importantly, they were engineered to ensure you’re comfortable even during long drives.
The luggage capacity of the X1 to the rear is 25.7 cubic-feet and 57.2 cubic-feet when the rear seats are folded. This means the third-generation BMW X1 boasts of bigger cargo space than its top competitors such as the Audi Q3 (23.7 and 48 cubic-feet) or the three-row Mercedes-Benz GLB-Class (12.4 and 62 cubic-feet).
A clean dashboard layout will greet you when you enter the cabin of the X1. Other notable elegant yet functional design elements include a floating armrest, smartphone tray, slim air vents, door trims, enough room for coffee cups or water bottles, and ambient lighting.
3Expansive Curved Display Gives You Total Control
BMW
Digital Instrument Cluster and Central Information Display of the 2023 BMW X1
The 2023 BMW X1 will not be left behind when it comes to impressive screens on the dashboard. A 10.25-inch Digital Instrument Cluster and a 10.7-inch Central Information Display are in the front and center of the driver-centric interior design. The screen real estate is a big upgrade from the 5.7-inch and 8.8-inch setup of the 2022 model X1. The BMW Curved Display runs with the iDrive 8 that’s now seamlessly compatible with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.
Note that the iDrive rotary controller is gone. The latest system is geared toward intuitive touch and encourages users to use voice control to make the most of the tech-forward features of the vehicle. The crisp and responsive display and customizable graphic layout allow you to easily monitor the vehicle’s status or toggle functions and features that fit the driving situation.
Sample shot of the digital instrument cluster of the BMW X1
The 2023 BMW X1 is an affordable luxury SUV that’s perfect whether you’re single or a small family looking for a daily driver. It’s a versatile entry-level luxury SUV that will not break the bank while providing the creature comforts and space suitable for your next grocery run or a quick family out-of-town trip.
The 2023 BMW X1 prices will not burn a big hole in your pocket. The vehicle is only available in one trim. The X1 xDrive28i model starts at $39,100 plus a destination fee of $995. The sticker price is comparable to the Volvo XC40 ($36,350), Audi Q3 ($36,000), and Mercedes-Benz GLA ($37,500).
The vehicle is now available in the United States and other markets. Bigger than its predecessor and more powerful than most of its competitors, you’ll get that familiar well-built, luxury European vehicle vibes with spirited driving, loads of technology, and packages available to enhance the ride further.
5More Potent Yet Efficient Engine
BMW
Rear quarter shot of a blue BMW X1 third gen
On top of the 2023 BMW X1 specs is a potent powerplant. Under its hood is a 2.0-liter four-cylinder turbocharged engine mated to a seven-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission. The TwinPower BMW engine boasts 241 horsepower at 4,500 to 6,500 rpm and a 295 pound-feet of torque at 1,500 to 4,000 rpm. That’s a good spread of power and more than enough if you’re zipping in city streets or going for long highway drives. This engine and transmission combo can bring the X1 xDrive28i from 0-60 MPH in 6.2 seconds.
28 MPG Combined City/Highway 25 MPG City 34 MPG Highway
EPA-Estimated Range
400 Miles
Annual Fuel Costs
$2,350
Tank Capacity
14.3 Gallons
6Standard All-Wheel Drive
BMW
The 2023 BMW X1 comes with the carmaker’s intelligent all-wheel drive
The 2023 BMW X1 xDrive28i, as the name suggests, is an all-wheel drive vehicle. The xDrive system intelligently sends power to all four wheels of the vehicle depending on the driving conditions. This ensures you maximize the traction while the vehicle remains stable and agile. In normal driving conditions that do not require power on all wheels, the system only sends power to the front wheels. However, during more challenging road conditions, the vehicle shifts the power to its rear wheels to improve traction and directional stability.
BMW redeveloped and improved the X1’s front and rear axle with positive effects on its performance, steering feedback, stability, and efficiency. The damping system has also been re-engineered to reduce body movement over bumps and better handle corners.
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BMW
Side profile of the 2023 BMW X1
BMW has been known as a leader in safety technologies, and the 2023 BMW X1 does not fall short in this category. The vehicle rolls out of the factory with these standard high-tech safety and driver assistance features:
Lane Departure Warning
Active Blind Spot Detection
Frontal Collision Warning with City Collision Mitigation
Parking Distance Control
Automatic High Beams
These features boost safety in different driving conditions. The Active Blind Spot Detection now comes with an exit warning function, which can warn you of an approaching vehicle or cyclist on either side of the vehicle. The system will flash the ambient lighting or the LEDs in the vehicle’s mirrors and emit a warning sound when you’re about to open the door, and there’s a risk of collision.
Meanwhile, the Collision Warning with a braking function can help you avoid accidents. It gives you visual and acoustic warnings when there’s a pedestrian or vehicle that you might hit in front or rear. The system can automatically apply the brakes to prevent an accident from happening.
8BMW X1 Drive Modes To Match Your Driving Style
BMW
2023 BMW X1 allows you to switch to a different drive mode using a switch labelled My Modes near its gear selector
Next to the gear selector of the X1 is a switch that you can easily toggle to set My Modes. This allows you to choose the driving style that reflects your mood. The vehicle will change its behavior when you select one of these modes:
Personal
Sport
Efficient
The BMW X1 will automatically adjust how the engine performs and how the car handles depending on your selection.
Your choice will also change the interior lighting and display on the big screens of the vehicle. For example, in Sport Mode, the display will turn red to complement the more spirited driving style. The Personal Mode will allow you to customize your display’s content, layout, and interior lighting. Lastly, the Efficient Mode changes the theme to blue and optimizes the driving experience with fuel efficiency in focus.
9Intelligent Personal Assistant
BMW
The Central Information Display of the 2023 BMW X1 allows you to control the different functions and features of the vehicle.
To make life easier for BMW owners, the X1 comes with an Intelligent Personal Assistant. Aside from greeting you when you get behind the wheel, you can conveniently instruct the car to open windows, adjust the temperature, or find the nearest gas station or your favorite restaurant using natural dialogue. Aside from voice commands, the system shows you that it is attentively listening by displaying graphics on its large screens and showing the position of whoever is talking to it.
The Intelligent Personal Assistant is practically a car expert that knows everything about your vehicle. It can help you with different functions, features, or service requirements. It remembers your needs and learns your habits or settings. All it takes is a “Hey BMW…” and your wish is its command.
10Wide Range Of Options And Packages To Fit Your Lifestyle
BMW
BMW M badge on a 2023 X1 with M package
While the 2023 BMW X1 is already an attractive package with its standard features, the car manufacturer offers a long list of optional equipment:
Design xLine – comes with optional 19-inch Y-spoke wheels or 20-inch multi-spoke alloy rims; Black High Gloss, Fine-Wood, or Aluminum trim; SensaTec dashboard; additional design elements for the exterior.
Convenience Package – comes with wireless device charging feature; Comfort Access keyless entry; auto-dimming mirrors; panoramic moonroof
M Sport Package- comes with optional 19- or 20-inch rims; Aerodynamic kit; M steering wheel; shift paddles; Sport seats; Adaptive M suspension; and more
Premium Package – Parking Assistant Plus; Head-Up Display; Harman/Kardon sound system; Interior Camera; Surround View; Drive Recorder; Live Cockpit Professional; and more
You can also get select upgrades such as remote engine start, universal garage door opener, sport seats, among others to enhance your driving experience without inflating the 2023 BMW X1 prices too much.
The 2024 models are now available at some dealerships, with new bikes on display. We’ve already seen most of the new dirt bikes from popular brands like Beta, Honda, Husqvarna, Kawasaki, KTM, and Suzuki. However, GasGas, Sherco, and Yamaha have yet to announce their new models, and TM reportedly does not have an importer in the U.S. If you’re planning to buy a new dirt bike in 2024, you should start saving up because prices have increased across the board. Here is a list of the Manufacturer’s Suggested Retail Prices (MSRPs) that have been announced so far. Please note that these prices do not include destination, tax, set-up fees, and additional charges. For last year’s prices, click here.
The world is shifting to electric vehicles (EVs), but the pace of adoption varies across regions. While the United States has seen an increase in EV sales, the market share remains in single digits. In contrast, Europe has surpassed North America in EV sales, but it is China that has become the dominant force in the EV race. As a country with a massive market and the ability to produce EVs at a rapid pace, China’s adoption of EVs is widespread and quick. This article will explore how China came to be at the forefront of the EV race.
China, once known primarily for its low-cost labor, has become the world’s largest EV market with the most EV models. The country is home to over 100 EV companies that are relatively unknown. How did China come to dominate the EV race? Politics played a significant role. Until 2022, foreign automakers had to form joint ventures with Chinese automakers to operate in China. This requirement promoted technology sharing and helped China gain knowledge in building new cars.
While this policy may seem beneficial only to China, it also benefited foreign automakers, especially German brands. Volkswagen, for example, established its joint venture with SAIC and FAW in China and treated the country as its most significant market. By creating models tailored specifically to China, such as the Lavida, Volkswagen achieved great success in the Chinese market.
However, Chinese entrepreneurs and engineers realized that they were falling behind in internal combustion engine (ICE) technology compared to countries like Germany. To catch up, they decided to invest in EV technology instead. This move allowed Chinese automakers to innovate and establish their own legacy in the EV age. China’s government played a crucial role in promoting EV technology through subsidies, incentives, and tax breaks, resulting in over 6 million EVs sold in China in 2022.
China chose to invest in EV technology where other countries were still in the early stages. Instead of trying to catch up in ICE technology, Chinese automakers focused on establishing their presence in the EV industry. As early as 2001, EV technology became a priority in China’s economic plans. Subsidies and incentives were provided to companies for producing and developing electric cars. Thanks to these investments and government support, China has become a leader in global EV sales, surpassing other countries.
Establishing a local supply chain is crucial for developing a robust EV industry. China has excelled at this, innovating and reducing the cost of EV technology at a rapid pace. While Western companies favored lithium nickel manganese cobalt (NMC) batteries, Chinese companies focused on lithium iron phosphate (LFP) batteries, which are cheaper and safer. Chinese battery companies have narrowed the energy gap of LFP batteries while keeping costs low.
In addition to advancing battery technology, China also has control over the necessary materials for batteries, including nickel, cobalt, sulfate, lithium hydroxide, and graphite. The country has a well-established battery supply chain, giving it a significant advantage in the global battery market. CATL, one of China’s battery suppliers, dominates global battery supplies, accounting for 34% of worldwide EV batteries.
Tesla has also benefited from China’s cultivation of the EV industry. The company’s Shanghai Gigafactory enabled local production with a solid supply chain already established in China. Tesla’s success in China has pushed local brands to innovate and compete, leading to an ongoing “price war” in the country’s EV market. Furthermore, CATL, the dominant battery supplier in China, supplies batteries to Tesla’s Shanghai Gigafactory.
Tesla is even in talks with CATL to build a battery plant solely owned by Tesla, licensing the technology and chemistry from CATL. Ford has also partnered with CATL to build a battery plant in Michigan. Both of these moves have sparked political controversy.
It remains to be seen if other countries can replicate China’s success in the EV industry. The United States is making efforts to develop its own EV industry with initiatives like the Inflation Reduction Act. Chinese EV startups are expanding to overseas markets, although they may face challenges in cracking the North American market due to politics and consumer perception. However, Chinese brands have found success in Europe by providing affordable EV options that cater to the aggressive EV push in the region.
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