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Car News That Mattered This Week (July 3-7): New Launches, Bookings, Spy Shots, and More


The first week of July witnessed two highly anticipated product introductions from Maruti and Kia, while Honda also opened its order books for the upcoming compact SUV in India

Honda Elevate

Last week, Maruti and Kia made headlines in India with the unveiling of their new products. Skoda and Volkswagen also launched new variants of the Kushaq and Virtus. Honda started accepting orders for its upcoming compact SUV, and Tata’s unique marketing technique drew attention.

Let’s have a look at all the major highlights of the week:

Maruti Invicto Goes On Sale

Maruti has launched the Invicto, a premium MPV based on the Toyota Innova Hycross, in India. The Invicto is available in limited variants and comes with a single powertrain option. We’ve also provided details about the Invicto’s color options and waiting period in four major cities.

Kia Seltos Facelift Debuted In India

Kia has debuted the Seltos facelift in India, featuring updated looks and an enhanced list of features. Although its prices are yet to be announced, customers will soon be able to reserve one. We have also compared the 2023 Seltos with its outgoing version in images and provided detailed information about its variant-wise color and transmission options here.

You Can Now Reserve Honda Elevate

Customers can now reserve Honda’s upcoming compact SUV, the Elevate, ahead of its official launch. The carmaker has also revealed the delivery timelines for the same. The Elevate will be Honda’s first brand new offering in India in almost seven years. Customers can book the Elevate in a range of color options, as described in this story.

Skoda Kushaq Now Gets New Exterior Shade

Skoda has added a new limited edition matte carbon steel shade color option to the Kushaq, following Volkswagen’s launch of updated GT Line variants in a new exterior shade.

Volkswagen Virtus Gets a New Variant

Volkswagen has introduced another entry-level DCT trim for the Virtus GT Line variant, shortly after launching a more affordable GT Line manual variant. This variant can be distinguished from the higher GT Plus based on certain exterior and interior features.

Tata’s Unique Marketing For Altroz CNG

Tata has showcased the Altroz CNG’s increased boot space in an interesting manner through its marketing approach. The Altroz is the recent addition to Tata’s CNG lineup and features a twin cylinder technology with two CNG cylinders placed under the boot floor.

Volkswagen Taigun Crash Tested Again

The Volkswagen Taigun, which has already been tested at Global NCAP, has now undergone testing at Latin NCAP as well. The compact SUV performed well in terms of safety.

Hyundai Creta Facelift Spied

The test mule of the Hyundai Creta facelift has been spied for the first time in India. The spy images reveal some changes on the exterior, which are detailed here.

Read More on : Invicto Automatic

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Maruti Invicto Waiting Period Less Than Toyota Innova Hycross In These 4 Cities!


The waiting period of the Innova Hycross averages close to a year in several cities

Maruti Invicto

The Maruti Invicto has entered the market with competitive pricing. It is essentially a version of the Toyota Innova Hycross with some styling changes, powertrain options, and adjustments to the feature list.

The Invicto, available only with the petrol-hybrid powertrain, is more affordable compared to the hybrid variants of the Innova Hycross, with savings of up to Rs 1.2 lakh. While the Innova Hycross has a waiting period of up to 15 months, the Invicto has a shorter wait time, at least in these four metro cities:

City

Invicto

Innova Hycross

Delhi

7-8 months

12 months

Bengaluru

5-6 months

12-15 months

Mumbai

6 months

7 months

Jaipur

6 months

10-12 months

Toyota Innova Hycross Front

Takeaways:

  • You can have your Invicto at home within 6-8 months, while the Innova Hycross has an average wait time of approximately 12 months in most cities.

  • The waiting period in Bengaluru and Jaipur is half of what it is in other cities.

  • Waiting period details for the Invicto in other cities will be available soon from dealerships.

Also Read: 5 Key Differences Between The Maruti Invicto And Toyota Innova Hycross

It is important to note that bookings for the top-end ZX and ZX (O) variants of the Toyota Innova Hycross are still on hold due to high waiting times. Currently, the VX and VX(O) variants are the only options available. Interestingly, the base-spec Invicto offers similar features to the Hycross VX(O).

Toyota Innova Hycross Cabin

Both MPVs share the same features and technology as they are essentially the same under the hood. They are equipped with a 2-litre petrol engine with hybrid technology and an e-CVT transmission. The Hycross also offers a regular 2-litre naturally aspirated petrol engine with a CVT automatic transmission. The hybrid powertrain provides an efficiency of 23.24kmpl.

In terms of features, both vehicles include a panoramic sunroof, a 10.1-inch touchscreen system, wireless Android Auto and Apple CarPlay, dual-zone AC, six airbags, TPMS, a 360-degree camera, and hill hold assist. However, the Hycross offers additional comforts such as ADAS and powered Ottoman seats in the middle row.

Also Read: Over 6,000 People Have Booked The Maruti Invicto Ahead Of Its Launch

The Maruti Invicto is priced between Rs 24.79 lakh and Rs 28.42 lakh (ex-showroom). It offers a premium alternative to other MPVs like the Kia Carens and Toyota Innova Crysta.

Read More on : Maruti Invicto Automatic

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5 Things That The 2024 Hyundai Creta Will Get From Kia Seltos Facelift


The Creta facelift will borrow several features from the new Seltos, to transform itself into one of the most feature-packed compact SUVs

Kia Seltos Vs Hyundai Creta

The Kia Seltos facelift recently made its India debut and its market launch is scheduled to happen soon. The updated model receives several cosmetic upgrades inside out, new features, and a more powerful turbo-petrol engine. It is the first major update for the Seltos in the four years since its launch, and many of these changes can be expected to be offered on its Korean sibling, the Hyundai Creta facelift, due to arrive in 2024.

While they will continue to sport their distinctive design languages, both SUVs are the same underneath. Here are the 5 key features and updates the 2024 Creta could borrow from the facelifted Seltos: 

Dual 10.25-Inch Displays

Kia Seltos New Vs Old

The Seltos flaunts dual 10.25-inch connected displays, one for the touchscreen infotainment system and the other for the digital instrument cluster. The Creta currently gets a 10.25-inch infotainment unit and a semi-digital instrument cluster. We could see a similar layout on the Creta facelift, which will elevate the premium quotient of the Creta’s cabin. 

ADAS

Kia Seltos New Vs Old

One of the prime additions to the Seltos facelift is the radar-based ADAS. The suite of active safety features will also be carried over the Creta facelift. Hyundai had already confirmed that more of its cars will get ADAS, following the Tucson SUV and Verna sedan. 

For reference, the Seltos’ ADAS suite consists of adaptive cruise control, lane-keep assist, blind spot monitoring, high-beam assist, and autonomous emergency braking. 

Also Read: Take A Closer Look At The Facelifted Kia Seltos In These 15 Images

Dual-zone AC

Kia Seltos New Vs Old

A segment-first feature of the Seltos facelift is the dual-zone climate control, which we might see onboard the 2024 Creta as well. This is a feel-good feature which will definitely add to the convenience of owners and also elevates these compact SUVs to the same premium feature set as that offered by the likes of the Mahindra XUV700. 

1.5-litre turbo-petrol engine

Kia Seltos New Vs Old

With its 160PS/253Nm 1.5-litre turbo-petrol engine, the facelifted Seltos is currently the most powerful compact SUV we have on sale. The same engine is also seen onboard the Verna and Carens and will find its way on the 2024 Creta too. This engine, on the Seltos, is paired with a 6-speed iMT and a 7-speed DCT. However, for the Creta, we might not see an iMT (manual without clutch pedal) option, but rather a three-pedal manual stick. 

Also Read: Image Comparison: New Kia Seltos Vs Old

A sporty rear end 

Kia Seltos New Vs Old

As mentioned earlier, the Seltos and Creta will maintain their distinct visual identities, but there are styling cues that might get carried over in some form. One of the big exterior changes for the Seltos facelift is its new rear end featuring connected LED taillamps and a new dual-tip exhaust.

The Creta facelift could also introduce the connected lighting setup at the back. While the Hyundai SUV’s turbo-petrol variants already came with a dual-tip exhaust, the Seltos facelift features a different kind of setup, with one tip on each end of the bumper. This could result in a different type of exhaust note, one that could be offered on the new Creta as well to match the performance of the 160PS turbo-petrol engine.

These are some of the key updates expected to be carried over from the Kia Seltos facelift to the 2024 Hyundai Creta. With these updates, the Hyundai SUV is expected to attract a premium over its current prices that range from Rs 10.87 lakh to Rs 19.20 lakh (ex-showroom).

Read More on : Seltos diesel

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Maruti Invicto Is Being Offered In 4 Colour Options


Maruti Invicto is the rebadged version of the Toyota Innova Hycross but gets fewer colour options

Maruti Invicto Colour Options

Maruti Invicto, the flagship offering from the Indian carmaker and a rebadged version of the Toyota Innova Hycross, has finally been launched. In case you’re planning to go and put your name on the order books, have a look at all the colour options available for the premium MPV.

Also Read: Maruti Invicto vs Toyota Innova Hycross vs Kia Carens: Price Comparison

The Invicto is only available in four monotone shades similar to the ones available with the Toyota MPV.

Maruti Invicto: Nexa Blue

Nexa Blue

Maruti Invicto: Stellar Bronze

Stellar Bronze

Maruti Invicto: Majestic Silver

Majestic Silver

Maruti Invicto: Mystic White

Mystic White

It is worth noting that the Invicto misses out on the black paint shades offered with the Innova Hycross.

Powertrain

Maruti Invicto Strong Hybrid Powertrain

The Maruti Invicto gets the same 2-litre strong-hybrid petrol engine powertrain as the Toyota Innova Hycross which produces 186PS and 206Nm of torque, paired with an eCVT gearbox. It is the only engine option for the Invicto unlike the Hycross which offers a choice of a 174PS 2-litre petrol engine as well. The Maruti MPV, like the Toyota one, comes with a front-wheel drivetrain.

Features & Safety

Maruti Invicto Cabin

Its features list is also similar to the Hycross. The Invicto comes with a 10.1-inch touchscreen infotainment system, 7-inch digital driver’s display, dual-zone climate control, ventilated front seats, and a panoramic sunroof.

Also Read: Over 6,000 People Have Booked The Maruti Invicto Ahead Of Its Launch

When it comes to safety, it gets six airbags, ABS with EBD, all-wheel disc brakes, front and rear parking sensors, and a 360-degree camera.

Price & Rivals

Maruti Invicto

The Invicto is priced between Rs 24.79 lakh and Rs 28.42 lakh (ex-showroom) and is a direct rival to the Innova Hycross. It can also be considered a premium alternative to the Toyota Innova Crysta and the Kia Carens.

Read More on : Invicto Automatic

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5 Things The VW Taigun Facelift Could Get From The New T-Cross


The Volkswagen T-Cross is closely related to the Taigun sold in the Indian market

Volkswagen has unveiled the near-production model of the new T-Cross compact SUV, which shares many similarities with the Volkswagen Taigun available in India. The two models have almost identical rear and side designs, as well as similar cabins. With these shared elements, it is likely that the facelifted Taigun will receive design and feature updates inspired by the newly revealed T-Cross. Here are the key enhancements expected in the global SUV:

1. Exterior Design

The most noticeable design change in the new T-Cross is the redesigned front fascia, which features sportier vertical LEDs in the bumper. Volkswagen may incorporate the same changes in the Indian version of the Taigun, albeit with a market-specific bumper design. The overall profile of the Taigun facelift might remain similar, except for the alloy wheels, which could be different. The T-Cross also introduces a new light signature for the connected LED tail lamps, which could be carried over to the Taigun facelift as well.

2. Interior Styling

The cabin of the new T-Cross does not differ significantly from the current Taigun, but there are some minor changes. The dashboard features a reworked and layered design, with a free-standing 9.2-inch touchscreen infotainment display replacing the integrated 10-inch unit in the Taigun.

Volkswagen has also incorporated more soft-touch materials in the cabin of the new T-Cross, which might also make their way into the facelifted SUV.

3. More Standard Features

While Volkswagen has not added any new features to the T-Cross, they have made several features available from the base-spec model. Standard features in the new T-Cross include LED headlights, LED tail lamps, a 360-degree camera, road sign display, digital driver’s display, and a touchscreen infotainment system. It is expected that some of these features will also be included as standard in the facelifted Taigun, bringing it in line with competitors like the MG Astor, Kia Seltos facelift, and Honda Elevate.

4. Better Safety

The current Taigun already boasts a 5-star safety rating in both Global NCAP and Latin NCAP, making it the safest compact SUV in India. However, the India-spec model does not currently offer any driver assistance systems. The new T-Cross, on the other hand, is equipped with advanced driver assistance features such as lane-keep assist, adaptive cruise control, and auto emergency braking. It is expected that these safety features will be included in the facelifted Taigun as well, bringing it up to par with rivals that already offer ADAS technology.

5. Same Powertrains

The new T-Cross does not introduce any changes to the powertrain options. Volkswagen is likely to continue using the same pair of TSI engines and transmissions that are already available in the current Taigun.

The release of the new T-Cross is scheduled for early 2024 in the international market, and it is anticipated that the facelifted Taigun will be introduced in India by the end of 2024. The facelifted Taigun is expected to come with a higher price tag than the current model, which ranges between Rs 11.62 lakh and Rs 19.46 lakh (ex-showroom).

Read More on: Volkswagen Taigun on road price

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2024 BMW CE 02 Finally Revealed at BMW Motorrad Days in Berlin

On July 7, 2023, BMW Motorrad unveiled its latest electric two-wheeler, the CE 02. This electric bike is the production version of the Concept CE 02 that BMW introduced in 2021.

The design of the CE 02 is quite similar to the concept version, with one major improvement: it now features actual foot pegs instead of a skateboard as seen in the concept. The CE 02 is targeted towards young riders who may be new to powered two-wheelers. BMW calls it an “eParkourer,” defining it as something that is neither an e-scooter nor an e-motorcycle.

The CE 02 will be available in three variants: regular, Highline, and AM-license restricted. The AM-restricted version is designed for riders who only have a car driver’s license or are 15 years old. According to BMW, the CE 02 has a maximum power output of 11 kW (15 horsepower), 55 Nm (40 pound-feet) of torque, and a top speed of 95 km/h (59 mph). It offers a range of 56 miles on a single charge. The AM-restricted version has a maximum power output of 4 kW (5 horsepower) and a top speed of 45 km/h (28 mph).

The CE 02 features a steel double-loop frame design, upside-down telescopic front fork, single-sided swingarm, and shock absorber setup with adjustable preload. It comes with 14-inch cast alloy disc wheels, disc brakes with ABS, and LED lighting. The seat height is 750 mm (29.5 inches), and the curb weight is 132 kg (291 pounds) for the 11 kW version and 119 kg (262.35 pounds) for the AM-restricted version.

The base CE 02 offers two standard ride modes: Flow and Surf. Opting for the Highline variant adds Flash mode. Charging options include a 0.9 kW external charger that charges from 20 to 80 percent in under three hours and a 1.5 kW quick charger that reduces charging time to about one hour and 40 minutes.

All versions of the CE 02 come with keyless ride, a USB-C charging socket, and a TFT display. The Highline variant allows users to use the BMW Motorrad Connected app in Cradle Mode, which turns the smartphone into a second display screen. Additional standard equipment includes automatic stability control, recuperative stability control, and reverse assistant.

In the US, the base model of the CE 02 starts at $7,599, while the Highline package adds $875, bringing the total to $9,069. Pricing and availability may vary by region, so it’s best to contact your local authorized BMW Motorrad dealer for accurate information.

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Watch the Restoration and Rebirth of a Fire-Damaged Honda CG125

What makes a motorcycle special? It’s not usually about the spec sheet or how rare it is. It’s the sentimental attachment that makes a bike truly special. Maybe it’s your first bike, or maybe it has a connection to someone important in your life. For the woman behind the Autumn Car Playing channel on YouTube, her 1989 Honda CG125 holds a special place in her heart because it belonged to her dad. It’s the bike of her childhood and the one she remembers most fondly.

Unfortunately, her CG125 sat for a long time and was severely damaged in a fire. The CG125 is a popular commuter motorbike sold in various markets around the world. In Europe, it’s often used as a learner bike, while in many Asian and Latin American countries, it’s a reliable everyday commuter. Despite there being many CG125s out there, this particular one held immense sentimental value for ACP, so she decided to undertake a complete restoration.

This timelapse video condenses the full series of the teardown and restoration of the bike into around 10 minutes. If you want to watch the entire process, the playlist is available in our sources for you to view each chapter individually without the fast-forwarding of time.

The restoration process begins with the disassembly of the engine, revealing a sludgy interior and worn-out parts. A complete engine teardown follows, allowing for a thorough cleaning and reassembly with fresh, new parts. Thankfully, ACP has access to a well-equipped workshop, including a large ultrasonic cleaner capable of handling all the engine parts, even the cases.

Once the engine parts are clean, it’s time to polish the exterior to a mirror-like shine. ACP demonstrates the advantage of having proper equipment, making the job much easier. With the engine reassembled using new parts, the focus shifts to the burned-out chassis.

ACP systematically disassembles the chassis, removes the damaged paint, and proceeds to clean, prime, and repaint the frame. The spoked wheels also receive attention, being disassembled, cleaned, respoked, balanced, and fitted with new tires. By the end of the project, the humble fire-damaged CG125 has been transformed into a stylish café racer.

As the video concludes, ACP kickstarts the bike and the completely rebuilt engine and exhaust produce a satisfying sound. The bike of her childhood has been reborn after the fire, making it even more special.

News

Suzuki and SkyDrive Collaborate to Produce Flying Cars in Japan

In 2022, SkyDrive, a company specializing in electric vertical takeoff and landing (eVTOL) machines, partnered with Suzuki to develop flying cars for the Japanese market. The goal was to have the first vehicles operational by 2025. Now, the two companies have officially signed an agreement to manufacture these flying cars, with production set to begin in spring 2024. The new version of the SkyDrive vehicle will have a three-person capacity, accommodating a pilot and two passengers, unlike the previous version which could only accommodate a pilot and a single passenger. The dimensions of the car will increase slightly to 43 feet long, 43 feet wide, and 10 feet high, including rotors.

In terms of specifications, the maximum takeoff weight has increased from 2,400 pounds to 3,100 pounds, while the maximum cruise speed is approximately 100 kilometers per hour (62 miles per hour) or 54 knots. The operational flight range has also increased to approximately 15 kilometers (9.3 miles) compared to the previous range of 5 to 10 kilometers (3 to 6.2 miles). The powertrain of SkyDrive’s eVTOL is battery electric, and the vehicle will be constructed using a combination of composites and aluminum alloys. Production will take place at a Suzuki facility in Shizuoka, Japan.

SkyDrive’s Airworthiness Certification Plans

SkyDrive aims to obtain airworthiness certification for its eVTOL by 2025. The company plans to showcase its flying car at the 2025 World Exposition in Osaka after receiving the certification. Following that, SkyDrive will seek type approval certification to begin mass production for the Japanese market in 2026. In addition to the Japanese market, SkyDrive also has plans to enter the US market and obtain certification from the US Federal Aviation Administration. The company intends to establish a base in South Carolina for its US operations due to the state’s significant presence in the commercial and military aviation industries.

The journey towards achieving these goals may not be direct, but SkyDrive remains committed to making progress in the field of eVTOL technology. The company will continue to provide updates on its developments and advancements in the coming years.

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Yamaha Is Bringing Its Ténéré 40th Anniversary Tour Across Europe In 2023

In 2023, Yamaha will celebrate the 40th anniversary of its original Ténéré motorcycle. The Ténéré line, which began with the 1983 Yamaha XT600Z, has continued to thrive over the decades. This milestone is a significant achievement for everyone involved.

To commemorate this special occasion, Yamaha Europe is organizing a full 40th anniversary Ténéré tour across various locations in Europe during the summer of 2023. Fans and enthusiasts, as well as casual observers, will have the opportunity to see and experience a range of attractions at these stops, including historic Ténéré production machines and classic Dakar race bikes.

Since the Ténéré line is still going strong in 2023, Yamaha Europe will also offer participants the chance to test ride their new bikes at these events. The tour will also feature the first public appearances of the new Ténéré 700 World Rally, which was designed in tribute to the line’s 40th anniversary and pays homage to the legendary Dakar winner Stéphane Peterhansel.


Yamaha 40 Years of Tenere 1

25 Photos

The Yamaha Ténéré 40th Anniversary Tour began on June 22, 2023, with its first stop at the Adventure Bike Rider Festival in the UK, the largest annual ADV gathering in the region. It then traveled to Ténéré Spirit Aguilar de Campoo in Spain from June 31 to July 1.

Future events include Germany’s MaxlRide Motofestival from August 25 to 27 and France’s Alpes Aventure Motofestival from September 8 to 10. Yamaha may add more events to its calendar throughout the year, so it’s best to check with your local Yamaha dealer for the latest information.

The MaxlRide Motofestival will be held in the Bavarian Alps and offers camping, glamping, and hotel options for participants. The Alpes Aventure Motofestival will take place in Barcelonette, France, at the Parc de la Sapinière. For more information on these festivals, you can visit their official websites.

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WHEN DECOSTER RODE HANNAH’S WORKS YAMAHA: THE WRAP

Back in July 1994, Roger DeCoster, who was in charge of Dirt Bike Magazine’s testing department, had the opportunity to test the 1979 Yamaha OW40, which was the bike that Bob Hannah raced. This bike, owned by Terry Good of the International MX Museum, is considered one of the greatest works Yamahas of its time. In the July 1994 issue of Dirt Bike, Roger shared his experience riding the bike.

In his interview, Roger expressed his interest in understanding the competition during the late ’70s and how Yamaha’s works rear suspension was superior to the Suzukis and Honda bikes he had previously ridden. He believed that the Yamahas had an overall advantage, especially in the 500 class.

After 15 years, Roger finally had the chance to ride the OW40. Despite the muddy conditions at RedBud in Michigan, he described the bike’s rear suspension as forgiving and better than some modern bikes. He noted that the bike had a sharp midrange hit that was challenging to control, but when on the powerband, it accelerated as hard as a modern 250 MXer. However, he felt that the handling of the bike felt old, with the front end having too much rake and the handlebar placed too far rearward.

Contrary to his expectations, Roger found the fork to be soft, which he attributed to the rider position being farther to the rear. He concluded that the bike, while very good, would not be competitive in today’s motocross. He also acknowledged that the bike’s success was not just due to its excellence but also Bob Hannah’s exceptional riding skills.

1981 SUZUKI RM125

During his exploration of Dirt Bike Magazine’s archives, the author came across a photo of the 1981 Suzuki RM125, a production bike that significantly influenced the 125 two-stroke class. The RM125 revolutionized the class and set the standard for the next 30 years.

Prior to the RM125, the 125 class and motocross in general were evolving rapidly. Honda, Yamaha, Suzuki, and Kawasaki were introducing new advancements each year. However, the 1981 Suzuki RM125 stood out with its liquid-cooling system, vertically mounted rear shock, and performance in local and professional motocross competitions. The RM125 outperformed its competitors and paved the way for future advancements in two-stroke technology.

Although Suzuki’s dominance in the 125 class was short-lived, the impact of the RM125 was significant. It influenced the development of power valve technology and rear suspension design. Despite being surpassed by newer motocross technology, the RM125’s contribution in shaping the future of motocross cannot be undermined.

SPEAKING OF BOB …

The author also stumbled upon an issue of Dirt Wheels featuring Bob Hannah on the cover riding an ATV in 1986, a nostalgic moment for motocross enthusiasts.

THE ‘WICK!

The Southwick motocross event is happening this weekend! The author provides details on how to watch the event and lists the broadcast team, including Jason Weigandt, Ricky Carmichael, James Stewart, and more. The event will be televised on Peacock and NBC.

2024 BMW ADVENTURE MODELS ANNOUNCED

BMW has unveiled its 2024 Adventure models, including the R1250GS and G310GS. The G310GS starts at an MSRP of $5,695, while the R1250GS Adventure is priced at $20,745. The bikes come in various colors and feature different options and packages. Changes to the standard equipment include the addition of Intelligent Emergency Call on the R1250GS Adventure.

That’s all for now, see you next week!