Tag Archives: December

RollsRoyce

ROLLS-ROYCE ‘MAKERS OF THE MARQUE’: ELEANOR VELASCO THORNTON

ELEANOR VELASCO THORNTON: 15 APRIL 1880 – 30 DECEMBER 1915

  • A short overview of the life and profession of Eleanor Velasco Thornton, born 15 April 1880
  • Secretary to each Claude Johnson and Lord Montagu of Beaulieu, muse of illustrator and sculptor Charles Sykes and the mannequin for the marque’s iconic Spirit of Ecstasy mascot
  • Third in a collection profiling the principal characters within the Rolls-Royce Motor Cars basis story because the marque celebrates its a hundred and twentieth anniversary in 2024
  • Insights into the individuals, personalities and intertwined relationships that indelibly formed the marque’s creation, growth and lasting legacy
  • Each account underlines and celebrates the important human dimension of ‘the best car in the world’

“Eleanor Thornton has a singular place in Rolls-Royce historical past. She is finest often called the purported mannequin for our Spirit of Ecstasy mascot, however how this happened is a part of a much more complicated and engaging story. Secrets, sacrifices and the ever-present danger of scandal dominated her tragically quick however intense and vibrant life. She was a robust, clever, self‑assured and extremely influential girl in an automotive world that was then virtually solely male-dominated. She additionally performed a pivotal half in a timeless, tangled, deeply human drama that might finally make her, and the art work she impressed, immortal.”
 Andrew Ball, Head of Corporate Communications and Heritage, Rolls-Royce Motor Cars

Eleanor Velasco Thornton was born on 15 April in 1880 in Stockwell, south-west London. Little is understood of her adolescence: what’s sure is that because the twentieth Century opened, she was working as assistant to the ebullient and charismatic Claude Johnson, General Secretary of the Automobile Club of Great Britain & Ireland (later the RAC) and soon-to-be enterprise companion of The Hon Charles Stewart Rolls.

Eleanor rented rooms at The Pheasantry on the Kings Road, Chelsea; now a Grade II Listed constructing, its eclectic and flamboyant architectural thrives had been the work of its then proprietor, the artist and inside decorator Amédée Joubert. At that point, it was house to a thriving colony of artists (within the Nineteen Thirties, the basement grew to become a restaurant and consuming membership, the regulars of which included the painters Augustus John and Francis Bacon, the poet Dylan Thomas and legendary actor Humphrey Bogart; it stays a nightclub to today). Amid these bohemian environment, Eleanor lived a exceptional double life: by day, an expert govt assistant; by evening, a life-model for the Pheasantry’s resident artists. One of these for whom she usually posed was a gifted illustrator, Charles Sykes. 

Eleanor’s life modified utterly and irrevocably in 1902. That yr, virtually 100 miles from London, on the sting of the New Forest in Hampshire, John Walter Edward Douglas-Scott-Montagu, was grappling with a longstanding drawback. He was but to ascend to his future title of 2nd Baron Montagu of Beaulieu; within the interim, for all his impeccable lineage and shining prospects, he was perennially wanting money. By a double misfortune, his life’s nice ardour was the motor automobile, which in these pioneering days was nonetheless very a lot the protect of these with deep pockets. 

Happily, Montagu had a aptitude for journalism, so his impressed answer was to arrange Britain’s first devoted motoring journal, The Car Illustrated. Montagu may deal with the writing, modifying and publishing himself; however for pictures, he wanted an expert illustrator. In a type of odd coincidences that so typically form historical past, the person he employed was Charles Sykes.

Among Montagu’s circle of motoring buddies was Claude Johnson. When, by him, Montagu met Eleanor, he was immediately captivated by her intelligence and promptly poached her, providing her the place of Office Manager at his journal. Eleanor accepted, and the aristocratic writer and his new colleague – 14 years his junior – quickly launched into a prolonged clandestine affair.

Thereafter, Sykes and Eleanor discovered themselves abruptly thrown collectively as colleagues at The Car Illustrated, whereas already properly acquainted with each other below very totally different circumstances. Whether this brought about any awkwardness between them is unimaginable to say; but it surely appears unlikely, since Eleanor was quickly posing for him once more.

During this era (the exact date is unknown) Sykes produced a mascot for Montagu’s Rolls‑Royce Silver Ghost. Called ‘The Whisper’, it was a small aluminium statuette of a younger girl in fluttering robes with a forefinger to her lips. It has been confirmed that Eleanor was the mannequin: whether or not the mascot was a token of appreciation from Sykes to his buddy and employer, or made at Eleanor’s instigation as a present for her lover, stays a thriller. Whatever the reality, Montagu displayed it on each Rolls-Royce automobile he owned till his dying in 1929; maybe as a discreet acknowledgment of his love for Eleanor, which he saved secret for thus lengthy.

Tragically, Eleanor was amongst a whole lot who drowned when the P&O passenger ship SS Persia sank within the Mediterranean in 1915. Montagu was among the many handful of survivors: he spent three days adrift on an upturned lifeboat, having suffered a fractured shoulder. He was additionally nursing a damaged coronary heart. Devasted, he by no means absolutely obtained over the emotion of the lack of Eleanor – of which, naturally, he may by no means converse publicly. But for the remainder of his life, she was with him in spirit wherever he travelled in his Rolls-Royce motor automobile.

News

Royal Enfield Announced the Pricing on the New Shotgun 650

Way again in December 2023, we have been capable of get our first look at the long-awaited Royal Enfield Shotgun 650. While it did not look precisely like the SG650 Concept first unveiled at EICMA a number of years earlier, it nonetheless appeared fairly darn good.

Considering the truth that lots of manufacturing machines find yourself not trying something like their idea variations (a lot to the chagrin of fanatics), we predict it turned out remarkably effectively. And we, in fact, said as much in our First Ride Review.

But till now, you’d just about simply must take our phrase for it when you stay in North America. But that is lastly coming to a detailed as Royal Enfield simply dropped how a lot the bike will value and it fairly cheap. 

Here’s What The Shotgun 650 Will Cost In The US And Canada

Like most OEMs that promote in a number of markets, Royal Enfield publicizes pricing and availability data for various markets in waves.

In January 2024, we learned about Indian and European pricing, and we famous that the Shotgun 650 was priced barely decrease than the Super Meteor 650 in these markets. At that point, we speculated that this might give us what to anticipate when it lastly got here to North America.

Friends, now that completely satisfied day has arrived, and it appears to be like like we have been bang on the cash. In the US, the Royal Enfield Shotgun 650 will begin at an MSRP of $6,899, whereas our Canadian associates will discover an MSRP of $9,199. 

For comparability, the Super Meteor 650 begins at $6,999 within the US and $9,599 in Canada. That’s simply above the place the Shotgun 650 is priced in each markets.


Royal Enfield Shotgun 650 - Characters - Badass

41 Photos

650 Twins Fans, The Continental GT 650 And INT 650 Are Getting Some Updates, Too

If you’ve got been watching the rollout of the Super Meteor 650 and the Shotgun 650 and questioning when the Continental GT 650 and INT650 have been going to get some love, concern not. Royal Enfield bought you all one thing good, too.

For 2024, each the Continental GT 650 and INT650 get new colorways, in addition to LED headlights, new CEAT tires that Enfield says are “improved,” a extra snug seat with a redesigned mesh and foam saddle, adjustable brake and clutch levers, the cool machined aluminum switchgear housing that debuted on the Super Meteor 650 and can be discovered on the Shotgun 650, and new grips.

The 2024 Royal Enfield Continental GT 650 begins at an MSRP of $6,349 within the US and $8,499 in Canada. Choose the 2024 Royal Enfield INT650 as a substitute, and the MSRP begins at $6,149 within the US and $8,199 in Canada.

You can try this picture gallery under to check out all the brand new colorways. Which one is your favourite? Let us know within the feedback.


Royal Enfield Continental GT 650 - Apex Gray - Front Left Angle View

99 Photos

News

Facelifted Honda Grom Makes Its Way To Japan In 2024

Back in December 2023, we had our first glimpse at the newest facelifted version of the Honda Grom. Since we have noticed how Honda tends to launch its new bikes up to now, we had an affordable suspicion that it could quickly head elsewhere in Asia earlier than making its method to different markets.

Japan appeared most definitely to our minds; and as of February 15, 2024, it seems that our suspicions have been right. That’s the date when Honda Japan formally introduced the up to date Grom for the Japanese market. The precise deliberate launch date is March 14, 2024, so you will have a couple of month to arrange your self and make room for the brand new Grom in your life.

The engine stays the identical little 123cc air-cooled single producing round 10 horsepower at 7,250 rpm, together with round eight pound-feet of torque at 6,000 rpm. It’s mated to a five-speed gearbox, and should you rode the 2023 Honda Grom in Japan, then you need to know that the engine stays primarily the identical.

2024 Honda Grom - Japan - Poster 2

2024 Honda Grom – Japanese Release – White and Black

What modifications is the bodywork and graphics, in addition to the colours. As at all times, how interesting you discover a given bike’s design and/or redesign will differ, as a result of design is so subjective. We can say that it is a clear, trendy look, however the previous version of the Grom may be described that method (regardless that it appears to be like fairly a bit completely different). Which one grabs you most? That’s as much as you.

It will get a flatter seat, a sportier and fewer toy-like look, and can be offered in simply two colorways in Japan for 2024: Pearl Horizon White and Matte Gunpowder Black Metallic. ABS is provided on the entrance wheel solely. Up entrance, you may discover the identical digital show as earlier than, and the 2024 Grom additionally will get a USB socket so you may maintain your favourite digital system charged.

Pricing and Availability

Honda Japan’s prompt retail value, together with 10 % consumption tax, is ¥390,500 (about $2,604.50). Without the consumption tax, it is ¥355,000 (about $2,368). 

One essential distinction between the sooner Thai launch and the Japanese launch that we must always be aware is that Thai Honda geared up the OEM accent stomach pan as a regular merchandise on its up to date Grom. It stood out to me specifically as a result of I actually love the way in which it appears to be like, so the truth that it is nowhere to be discovered on the inventory photographs of the Honda Grom’s launch in Japan additionally stood out.

2024 Honda Grom - Japan - White - Front Right Angle View Accessorized

2024 Honda Grom – Japanese Release – Fully Accessorized

While it does not come as normal tools on the Honda Japan launch of the brand new Grom, it’s out there to buy as an adjunct. In truth, Honda Japan has a complete record of OEM equipment ready for the brand new Grom, a lot of which you’ll be able to see on this picture. From the cutest little handguards you’ve got ever seen (do not they seem like cat ears?) to that stomach pan and a bunch of baggage, this Grom is clearly able to go on some journeys.

Will This Facelifted Grom Appear In Other Markets?

If previous Honda Grom releases are something to go by, we can be roughly zero % stunned if and when this design rolls out elsewhere. So far, Honda has not made any official statements about plans for releases in different geographic areas. However, we strongly suspect that it is solely a matter of time earlier than this little Grom reveals up in your nook of the world.


2024 Honda Grom - Japan - Black - Front Right Angle View

9 Photos

Motorsport

The Rock Crawling Porsche 911’s Suspension Was Originally Developed For the 919 Le Mans Car

In December, Le Mans legend Romain Dumas was on the wheel of the extremely modified Porsche 911 Carrera 4S that broke the altitude record for wheeled automobiles. But Dumas isn’t the one connection this record-setting 911 has to the legendary 24-hour enduro. Its trick suspension was initially meant for Le Mans.

While a lot of this Carrera’s drivetrain is unmodified, its suspension has been completely redone, geared up with a system Porsche calls the Warp Connector. Originally created for the Le Mans-winning 919 Hybrid, it was shelved early on in that automobile’s growth and unused till this venture.

It’s not like the suspension system in some other Porsche.

How It Works

Instead of letting every nook function independently, the Warp Connector suspension goes in the wrong way, interconnecting all 4 corners for optimum traction. The entrance axle and rear axle are every related transversely to their very own centrally mounted springs and dampers. For the entrance axle, that spring and damper setup is positioned beneath the hood, simply in entrance of the windshield cowl. For the rear axle, the spring and damper might be discovered on the rear of the cabin, the place you’d usually discover the parcel shelf. 

Porsche 911 Rock Crawler Warp Connector Suspension Diagram

Above, a 3D diagram of the Warp Connector suspension supplied by Porsche.

The “connector” within the Warp Connector is the ultimate piece of the puzzle. It’s a stable bar that connects every axle longitudinally by way of a sequence of pivot factors. The bar creates a form of twist rigidity between the entrance and rear, so if one axle articulates a sure manner, the bar enacts a power onto the opposite axle, coaxing it to articulate in the wrong way. 

This means any upward power going right into a wheel — say, one tire driving over a giant rock — is translated into downwards power to the opposite three wheels. The reverse wheel receives its downward power by way of the centralized spring and damper, whereas the alternative axle receives its downward forces by way of the Warp Connector bar. The system’s interconnected nature means all 4 corners are performing on one another always, pushing one another to remain related to the floor under. The result’s a 911 that may preserve its stability over massive rocks, dips, and undulations. Here’s an indication of the system in motion:

Engineers have been hesitant to assemble a full-size prototype with such a drastically completely different suspension setup. So they constructed a scale mannequin first. 

“[The suspension’s] inventor came with the idea to build an RC model car with exactly the same system,” says Sven Schaarschmidt, chassis engineer for the record-setting automobile. “It looked a bit different than in the real car, but the working principle was exactly the same thing. We were able to play with the car on a desk, moving the wheels and looking at all the connections. It gave us an idea if it could really work in a big car.”

One query stays: If the Warp Connector works so nicely on this 911, why was it dropped from the 919 venture? 

“The problem was that [the 919 engineers] had a number of other issues to solve with the car,” Schaarschmidt informed Motor1. “To make it easier to analyze all the issues, They wanted to simplify the car and remove the system. Then the car was working so well that they saw no reason to bring it back.”

Porsche 911 Altitude Edith record off roader 56105
Porsche 911 Altitude Edith record off roader 56108

Porsche received’t say whether or not it plans to do extra with the Warp Connector idea, although contemplating simply how a lot area it takes up within the record-setting 911, viable manufacturing functions are seemingly few and much between. Still, it’s a formidable little bit of engineering that’s value highlighting. It helped obtain a world document, in spite of everything.

If we needed to guess, the Warp Connector’s reappearance would seemingly are available a motorsport software, seeing as that’s the place it originated, anyway. Race automobiles don’t want to fret about occupying a bit of further cabin or cupboard space, making it an interesting selection for competitors use. But that’s simply hypothesis on our finish.

News

Recall: 2021-2024 BMW R 18 Could Have Headlight Break

On December 22, 2023, BMW of North America LLC issued a voluntary security recall for all 2021 by way of 2024 BMW R 18 B and R 18 Transcontinental bikes. The headlamps on these bikes have low beam reflectors with attachment factors that might change into broken over time with regular use, and ultimately break.

If all of the reflectors break, then the reflector may not adequately replicate the sunshine so {that a} rider can see the street effectively, rising the chance of a crash. Additionally, an undesirable glare may very well be directed at oncoming site visitors from the dislodged reflectors, which may additionally enhance the chance of a crash.

According to BMW of North America’s data, roughly 2,369 bikes are believed to be concerned on this recall. This represents 100% of the inhabitants. The affected bikes have been produced between March 24, 2021 and December 28, 2023.

Regarding attainable warning indicators that might happen, BMW notes that “the rider may notice one or more of the following conditions: A rattling noise within the headlamp, a vibrating low beam, and/or a change in illumination of the roadway.”

BMW notes a complete of eight buyer complaints, 72 guarantee claims, and 68 vendor area reviews that might relate to this situation. However, it additionally states that as of December 22, 2023, it had not acquired any reviews of accidents or accidents associated to the matter for which it’s issuing this recall.

BMW is presently creating the treatment program for this recall. It notified its vendor community concerning the situation on December 22, 2023. Owner notification letters are scheduled to be despatched by way of First Class mail on February 13, 2024. 

In the meantime, BMW has additionally issued a supply cease discover to its dealership community (quantity STOP630009) for each the R 18 Bagger and Transcontinental. Dealers have been knowledgeable that they can’t promote, lease, or ship any new bikes affected by this recall till the recall service has been carried out. 

Owners could contact BMW North America customer support at 1-800-525-7417. Additionally, house owners could contact the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration Vehicle Safety Hotline at 1-888-327-4236 (TTY 1-800-424-9153) or go to www.nhtsa.gov. 

Motorsport

Porsche’s First Steer-By-Wire System Is Designed For Less Feedback, Not More

In early December Porsche took a highly modified 911 Carrera 4S to the Ojos del Salado volcano in Chile to break the world record for highest altitude pushed by a automobile. The automobile, pushed by three-time Le Mans winner Romain Dumas, had a myriad of rock crawling-specific mods to assist it up the mountain. But none had been extra fascinating than its steer-by-wire system, the primary to look in any new Porsche product. 

Built in collaboration with German elements provider Schaeffler, the steer-by-wire system is probably the most vital improve discovered on Edith, the record-setting 911, versus Doris, the unique prototype proven in 2019, which makes use of an unmodified manufacturing steering rack.

Unlike another steer-by-wire programs, Porsche’s “Space Drive” steering system is completely digital, with no bodily connection between the steering wheel and the entrance wheels. According to Porsche, the steering gear itself is motivated by a servomotor, whereas the steering wheel is linked to a power suggestions module to generate suggestions to the driving force. Everything is managed by way of a field of electronics discovered the place the passenger seat can be, and managed by way of a panel that stands out from the precise aspect of the sprint.

Porsche 911 Altitude Edith record off roader 56156
Porsche 911 Altitude Edith record off roader 5671
Porsche 911 Altitude Edith record off roader 5651

While most steering programs are developed to translate as a lot really feel and suggestions as potential to the driving force, Porsche’s Space Drive goes in the other way. It’s designed to take away undesirable forces coming from the entrance finish into the steering wheel in favor of smoothness and stability. As it seems, the very last thing you’d need from a steering wheel is sudden jolts from large rocks whereas scaling the aspect of a mountain. That “kickback” is one thing engineers strived to remove each for efficiency and security causes.

“[Dumas] didn’t want to get these big impacts on the steering wheel,” Sven Schaarschmidt, chassis engineer for the automobile, instructed Motor1. “He wanted to have a good feeling about what the traction was, but he didn’t want that.”

The Space Drive system additionally has a considerable amount of adjustability, says Schaarschmidt.

“You could adjust it if you want to feel more,” he instructed Motor1. “You can adjust everything as you like. You can change the ratio, you can limit or adjust the steering wheel forces, you can do everything.”

Porsche 911 Altitude Edith record off roader 5661

In observe, the steering feels extra simulation than actuality. It was clear that even after a brief take a look at drive via a medium-difficulty off-roading course in Malibu, this technique was developed for a singular goal, and that goal was not conventional steering really feel. It strives to perform one thing totally different, eradicating as many sensations from the steering wheel as potential whereas nonetheless speaking a normal sense of the place the entrance wheels are pointed. Sadly Porsche didn’t allow us to fiddle with the adjustability, so we couldn’t get a way of what modifications could possibly be made to change the sensations going to our fingertips.

With steer-by-wire programs changing into an increasing number of widespread in passenger autos, it’s seemingly we might sooner or later see such a system carried out on a Porsche street automobile. While we’re certain Porsche would engineer a extra really feel into its mass-production steer-by-wire system, the adjustability of all of it is much more intriguing. Even at present’s electrically assisted programs present a comparatively low quantity of adjustability with regards to suggestions and resistance. If there’s any firm that may do steer-by-wire proper, it’s Porsche.

Featured

Take A Look At The Top 15 Best-selling Cars Of December 2023

December 2023 noticed as many as 10 vehicles register whole gross sales of greater than 10,000 models

Top 15 best-selling cars in December 2023

The final month of 2023 was full of surprises when it got here to the top-selling vehicles as the standard high rankers such because the Maruti Wagon R and Swift have been displaced by greater than 5 positions. The high 5 most sought-after fashions in December 2023 record additionally included two Tata vehicles: the Nexon and Punch. Here’s how every automotive carried out in December 2023:

Model

December 2023

December 2022

November 2023

Tata Nexon

15,284

12,053

14,916

Maruti Dzire

14,012

11,997

15,965

Tata Punch

13,787

10,586

14,383

Maruti Ertiga

12,975

12,273

12,857

Maruti Brezza

12,844

11,200

13,393

Maruti Swift

11,843

12,061

15,311

Mahindra Scorpio

11,355

7,003

12,185

Maruti Baleno

10,669

16,932

12,961

Hyundai Venue

10,383

8,285

11,180

Maruti Eeco

10,034

10,581

10,226

Kia Seltos

9,957

5,995

11,684

Maruti Fronx

9,692

–

9,867

Hyundai Creta

9,243

10,205

11,814

Maruti Wagon R

8,578

10,181

16,567

Mahindra Bolero

7,995

7,311

9,333

Also Check Out: Tata Punch EV Bookings Open! Design And Features Revealed

Key Takeaways

Tata Nexon

  • The Tata Nexon, with over 15,000 models offered, took the highest spot in December 2023’s gross sales record. These numbers additionally embrace the figures of the Tata Nexon EV.

  • With greater than 14,000 models dispatched, the Maruti Dzire remained unaffected on the second spot, which it bagged in November 2023. Its year-on-year (YoY) numbers grew by 17 p.c.

Tata Punch

  • The Tata Punch ranked third on the December 2023 gross sales chart with almost 14,000 models offered. Although its month-on-month (MoM) figures witnessed a drop, its YoY numbers shot up by 30 p.c.

  • With gross sales numbers ranging between 12,000 and 13,000 models, the Maruti Ertiga and Maruti Brezza occupied the following two spots on the December 2023 record. While the MPV noticed a marginal dip in its MoM gross sales determine, the Brezza’s numbers went down by virtually 550 models.

  • The Maruti Swift and Mahindra Scorpio’s gross sales ranged from 11,000 to 12,000 models, thereby placing them after the Brezza. Do observe that the Scorio’s numbers embrace the gross sales figures of each Mahindra Scorpio N and Mahindra Scorpio Classic.

  • Following the Scorpio have been three fashions, specifically the Maruti Baleno, Hyundai Venue and Maruti Eeco, positioned shut to at least one one other with their gross sales numbers falling between 10,000 and 11,000 models. Among them, the Baleno witnessed the very best YoY drop in gross sales of 37 p.c.

  • There was one other trio which consisted of the Kia Seltos, Maruti Fronx and Hyundai Creta, gross sales of which ranged from 9,000 to 10,000 models. Among the three, it was the Maruti Fronx which was the least affected when MoM numbers are thought-about.

  • One of the standard desk toppers, the Maruti Wagon R, registered whole gross sales of simply over 8,500 models in December 2023. Its MoM determine went down by virtually 8,000 models.

  • The final spot on this record was taken by the Mahindra Bolero with cumulative gross sales of almost 8,000 models. These embrace numbers of each the Mahindra Bolero and the Mahindra Bolero Neo.

Read More on : Tata Nexon AMT

Featured

Tata Surpasses Hyundai In December 2023 Sales, Becomes Second-highest Selling Brand

Maruti and Mahindra proceed to be on the identical positions because the earlier month

Highest Selling Car Brand Of December 2023

The automotive gross sales figures of December 2023 are out and the market has witnessed a drop in gross sales in comparison with November 2023. After the festivities of October, the gross sales numbers continued to witness a drop and the yr finish was no exception. However, this time we’ve seen a change within the positions of the highest performing manufacturers, as Tata rose to the second place by surpassing Hyundai in gross sales. Here is an in depth evaluation of the gross sales figures of December 2023.

Brand

December 2023

November 2023

MoM Growth (%)

December 2022

YoY Growth (%)

Maruti Suzuki

1,04,778

1,34,158

-21.9

1,12,010

-6.5

Tata

43,471

46,070

-5.6

40,045

8.6

Hyundai

42,750

49,451

-13.6

38,831

10.1

Mahindra

35,171

39,981

-12

28,333

24.1

Toyota

21,372

16,924

26.3

10,421

105.1

Kia

12,536

22,762

-44.9

15,184

-17.4

Honda

7.902

8,730

-9.5

7,062

11.9

Volkswagen

4,930

3,095

59.3

4,709

4.7

Skoda

4,670

3,783

23.4

4,789

-2.5

MG

4,400

4,154

5.9

3,899

12.8

Total

2,81,980

3,29,108

  

2,65,283

  

Key Takeaways

Maruti Grand Vitara

  • Maruti Suzuki’s efficiency declined in each month-on-month (MoM) and year-on-year (YoY) gross sales. While it nonetheless held the highest spot in December 2023 with over 1 lakh models bought, the MoM and YoY figures dropped by virtually 22 % and 6.5 %, respectively. 

2023 Tata Harrier & Safari

  • In a change of occasions, Tata outperformed Hyundai in December 2023 and rose to the second place. With gross sales of over 43,000 models, its YoY figures grew purchase 8.6 %, however the MoM figured witnessed a 5.6 % drop.

Also Read: Hyundai Creta Facelift Variants And Powertrain Options Revealed

  • Hyundai dropped to the third place with gross sales of over 42,000 models in December 2023. While its YoY figures rose by over 10 %, the drop in MoM gross sales was greater than 13.5 %.

Mahindra Scorpio N

  • Mahindra remained in the identical place as in November 2023 and witnessed a MoM gross sales drop of 12 %. The carmaker bought somewhat over 35,000 models in December 2023.

Also Read: Toyota Innova Crysta, Innova Hycross, And Urban Cruiser Hyryder Now Up To Rs 42,000 Costlier

Kia Seltos

  • Kia witnessed virtually a forty five % decline in month-to-month gross sales in December 2023 and its yearly gross sales additionally dropped by over 17 %. It was the final model on this listing to cross the ten,000 models gross sales mark.

Upcoming Cars In India

  • Honda retained its place with gross sales of shut to eight,000 models. Its MoM gross sales figures declined by virtually 10 %, however the YoY numbers rose by virtually 12 %. 

  • Both Volkswagen and Skoda rose one place this month with gross sales of 4,930 models and 4.670 models, respectively. Volkswagen noticed an increase in each MoM and YoY gross sales, whereas Skoda solely noticed a month-to-month gross sales improve.

MG Comet EV

  • Lastly, MG dropped to the tenth place in December 2023, regardless of each its MoM and YoY figures having elevated.

News

Recall: 2016-2023 Ducati XDiavels Could Have Passenger Backrest Break

On December 6, 2023, Ducati North America issued a security recall on all 2016 by 2023 Ducati XDiavel S and STD bikes offered within the US because of the potential for damaged passenger backrests. Incorrect set up of the half or potential incorrect utilization by the passenger might result in a damaged backrest, which might trigger a passenger to fall from the bike and be injured. 

According to Ducati North America data, roughly 2,906 bikes might probably be concerned on this recall, which represents about one p.c of the inhabitants. 

This is not the primary XDiavel recall through the mannequin’s run, as the 2016 through 2018 bikes faced a side stand recall in 2021. Additionally, some 2016 bikes were recalled because of an incorrect rear wheel set up.

Regarding the 2023 XDiavel S and STD backrest recall, the affected bikes had been produced from November 4, 2015 by June 14, 2022. Affected VINs vary from ZDM13BKW1GB000066 to ZDM13BKW1PB011942 and will not be sequential.

Ducati Motor Holding has been reviewing and analyzing guarantee claims relating to damaged passenger backrests on XDiavels since October 2017. Through the course of its investigation, it decided {that a} part defect was not at fault.

Instead, Ducati discovered that the problem is extra difficult as a result of the passenger backrest is provided as an adjunct, and doesn’t come pre-installed on the bike. Therefore, it is as much as the client to put in it, or for them to have another person (a store, a licensed Ducati supplier, or anybody they select) do the work for them. 

Over the course of its investigation, Ducati says that it turned conscious of six potential security instances, however specifies that none of those was positioned within the US. In the curiosity of security, Ducati North America is instructing its licensed supplier community to test the passenger backrest set up for applicable process and tightening torque on all XDiavels. Additionally, as a part of this recall, Ducati sellers will set up a warning sticker on the backrest of all XDiavels, which is able to inform passengers the best way to safely use the backrest.

According to Ducati’s official security recall documentation bulletin to sellers, the passenger backrest should be used together with both holding onto the passenger seize strap, or else holding onto the rider. Passengers mustn’t use the backrest alone for help, or else it might break. 

In the course of the recall, Ducati sellers will do certainly one of three issues to treatment the problem.

  • For XDiavels the place the backrest is put in, sellers will examine the backrest to find out whether or not they’re broken. If they don’t seem to be broken, they may reinstall them utilizing Ducati’s torque specs.
  • If the seat backrests are discovered to be broken, they are going to be changed freed from cost, then put in based on Ducati’s directions by the supplier.
  • If the seat backrests will not be put in on the bikes, house owners might be instructed to take the seat backrests to their native Ducati supplier for an inspection and the applying of a warning sticker. If the proprietor needs to put in the backrest sooner or later, they have to take it to a Ducati supplier to guarantee that it complies with their directions.
  • In all XDiavel recall instances, Ducati sellers will apply a brand new warning sticker to the backrest that informs passengers on its correct utilization as decided by Ducati.

Owners might contact Ducati customer support at 1-888-391-5446. Ducati’s quantity for this recall is SRV-RCL-23-005. 

Additionally, house owners might contact the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration’s Vehicle Safety Hotline at 1-888-327-4236 (TTY 1-800-424-9153) or go to www.nhtsa.gov.

News

Do Different Speed Limits For Motorcycles And Cars Make Sense? EU Says No

On December 7, 2023, Members of the European Parliament (MEPs) who’re seated on the Transport and Tourism Committee permitted an inventory of revisions to European Union driving license guidelines. In the tip, the group permitted a draft place containing a number of frequent sense revisions, together with issues like a minimal two 12 months probationary interval for brand spanking new drivers and making a digital driving license accessible for drivers to make use of on their smartphones. 

This issues to motorcyclists as common street customers, in fact. Also, many riders drive automobiles once they’re not driving. However, it is also important as a result of the MEPs concurrently rejected some beforehand proposed adjustments that will have positioned different speed limits on motorcyclists relying on what kind of license they maintain (A1, A2, or A).

We’re Not Kidding, Someone Proposed Adopting Different Speed Limits For Motorcyclists Riding In Europe

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The motorcycle-specific speed limit proposals that have been rejected have been these. Regardless of any common posted pace restrict on a given motorway or street, riders would face the next:

  • Riders with A1 licenses couldn’t exceed a pace of 90 kilometers per hour (or 55 miles per hour)
  • Riders with A2 licenses couldn’t exceed a pace of 100 km/h (or 62 mph)
  • Riders with A licenses couldn’t exceed a pace of 110 kim/h (or 68 mph)

For these unfamiliar with Europe’s tiered bike licensing scheme, here is the way it works:

  • A1 license holders have to be no less than 16 years of age. Qualifying A1 bikes should not have a displacement bigger than 125cc or have bikes that produce energy better than 11 kilowatts (or roughly 14.7 horsepower)
  • A2 machines should not make greater than 35 kW (or 46.9 horsepower)
  • A-level motorbikes could be any bikes, fully unrestricted, however the rider should have an A license to trip them.

Why Propose Different Speed Limits For Different Tiers Of Motorcycle Licenses?

The purpose acknowledged by Rapporteur Karima Delli, who initiated the proposal, was street security and a need to reduce and hopefully to get rid of street deaths within the EU by 2050. The aim is admirable, nevertheless it’s not clear how a pace differential between among the most among the most susceptible car operators on the street and the automobiles and vehicles round them would obtain that aim.

Evidently, sufficient MEPs discovered fault with this proposal that they rejected it. Considering that the present common car pace restrict present in EU member states is 120 to 130 km/h (or about 74.5 to 80 mph), the failings on this proposal are plain to see. 

Why This Proposal Was A Terrible And Unsafe Idea For Riders

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Even for those who’ve by no means ridden in your life, chances are high good that you have in all probability pushed in a state of affairs the place different visitors goes at what appears to be a lot decrease than the posted pace restrict.

In actuality, it might solely be 10 or 15 miles per hour below. But for those who’re caught behind that driver, it is simply irritating.

As different visitors on the street that desires to get across the slow-moving car, more often than not, you could not probably care much less why they are going so slowly. You care far more that they are in your approach. You get annoyed and upset, and also you cross them as quickly as you probably can. Maybe you flip them off, otherwise you yell out your window at them.

Do we have to have a speak about street rage right here? Because that is additionally one of many many ways in which you get street rage. It’s removed from the one approach, however egregiously sluggish driving typically tends to make the blood stress rise in anybody caught behind that car.

Now, let me ask you a query. Regarding automobiles, did you image two automobiles within the state of affairs I simply proposed? If you probably did, now strive picturing a motorcycle because the slow-moving car, and a automotive or truck because the one caught behind it, eager to get previous this tremendous sluggish factor blocking its approach.

Instantly, the facility dynamic shifts. Cars and vehicles are a lot bigger automobiles than bikes. If they cross or push a motorcycle too aggressively, more often than not, it is the rider who’s going to get injured (or no less than have their car undergo harm.) The driver, in the meantime, might need a number of scratches and dents of their automotive, however will probably not need to go to the hospital. There is a significant imbalance in threat ranges right here.

Unless in addition they trip, most drivers of automobiles and vehicles merely do not care sufficient about bikes to note that “oh, that’s an A1 bike, so they can only legally go THIS fast.” Instead, they will simply see a sluggish motorcycle, and so they’ll get irritated and wish to get round it. 

If you are interested by selling street security, why would you deliberately provoke extra aggressive street conduct, particularly when all that aggro could be directed on the folks you say you wish to shield?

We do not know for sure why the MEPs rejected this proposal, however on behalf of anybody driving in Europe, we’re glad that they did.

“This is a significant victory for the European motorcyclists’ foyer. Different speeds for various license holders is essentially the most ridiculous and harmful proposal I’ve heard in a very long time,” the Federation of European Motorcyclists’ Associations common secretary Wim Taal stated in a press release.

“This would not only discourage a lot of road users to switch to powered two-wheelers, it would also put motorcyclists in an unacceptable unsafe situation. A victory like this once again proves how important it is to have strong motorcyclists’ organisations throughout Europe,” he concluded.

Here Are The Updated EU Driving License Requirements That Are In The Draft Legislation

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  • Driving licenses might be legitimate for no less than 15 years on bikes, automobiles, and tractors. 
  • Driving licenses might be legitimate for 5 years on vehicles and buses.
  • Some exceptions to the above could also be made.
  • A prompt obligatory well being examine could also be required for issuance and/or renewal of a driving license.
  • Inexperienced drivers would have a probationary interval of two years, throughout which stricter penalties could be imposed for infractions similar to drunk driving.
  • Due to the present scarcity of expert skilled drivers of vehicles and buses, 18 12 months olds is perhaps allowed to acquire their license for vehicles and buses that would carry as much as 16 passengers, so long as they maintain a certificates {of professional} competence. Otherwise, the age restrict could be raised to 21. Another proposed change would see 17 12 months olds be capable of drive vehicles in the event that they have been additionally accompanied by an skilled driver.
  • A driver expertise take a look at replace is proposed, which would come with subjects similar to e-bikes, e-scooters, cellphone utilization, driving in snow and slippery climate situations, driver help programs, and extra.
  • Adoption of a single digital driving license for EU member states is proposed, which might be accessible on a driver’s smartphone, and could be fully equal to a bodily, handheld license that you just would possibly carry in your pockets.

What Happens Next?

The draft proposals agreed upon by the MEPs “will possibly be voted on by the full house of the European Parliament in January 2024 plenary session,” in accordance with the European Parliament’s official launch on the topic. Stay tuned.