Tag Archives: range

Featured

Citroen eC3 vs Tata Tiago EV: Space & Practicality Comparison


Both electric vehicles offer a real-world range of over 200km, but which one is more livable within the city?

If you’re trying to choose an affordable electric hatchback in India, you might feel undecided between the Citroen eC3 and Tata Tiago EV. Both EVs have their own set of advantages and disadvantages, but which one is the all-rounder? In this review, we’ll compare the space and practicality of both the EVs to help you decide which one suits you best.

Before we continue, our partner website has conducted a ride and handling comparison of both EVs, which you can read here.

Key

To begin with the key, the eC3 receives a remote key with lock and unlock buttons, which gives it an outdated feel. Even in the top-spec variant of the eC3, the key needs to be inserted to bring the EV to life, as it doesn’t have the push-button start feature.

On the other hand, the Tiago EV’s key fob can rest in your pocket as Tata’s electric hatchback comes with a passive entry feature and a push-button start/stop as well. Unlike the eC3, Tata’s EV also comes with auto-folding ORVMs.

Looks

The Citroen eC3 has an SUV-like stance due to its upright presence. Elements like body cladding and roof rails give it a rugged look. But it still gives an outdated vibe due to the flap style door handles and fender-mounted turn indicators. It also looks the same as the C3, and Citroen could have done more to differentiate the looks of its electric hatchback from that of its ICE iteration. 

On the other hand, the Tiago EV is a stylish hatchback that can be easily distinguished from the regular Tiago. Its distinct color scheme, bumper design, and blue accents allow this vehicle to stand out in a crowd. In contrast to the eC3, the Tiago EV is equipped with projector headlamps and turn indicators mounted on the outside rear-view mirrors (ORVMs). It also has a font used for the Tiago.ev badging that adds more value to the customers who are willing to pay a more premium amount for an electric vehicle.

In terms of dimensions, the eC3 is larger than the Tiago EV. The eC3 rides on 15-inch alloy wheels, while the Tiago EV features smaller 14-inch steel wheels with wheel caps. However, the eC3 lacks the distinguishing factors typically associated with electric cars. In contrast, Tata’s electric hatchback, despite its smaller size, possesses a more appealing overall design.

Interior

The eC3’s cabin features a funky design, highlighted by contrast-colored door pockets and a dotted pattern on the dashboard. However, the materials used could have been better, and the panel gaps in certain areas could have been more uniform. The eC3 offers a higher driving position, resulting in improved visibility and better judgment of the car’s dimensions in traffic.

The Tiago EV’s dashboard showcases a sober and mature design. The quality of the plastics used is comparable to that of the eC3, but the fit and finish is a concern with Tata’s electric hatchback. In terms of the seating position, it is not as elevated as the eC3, but maneuvering the Tiago EV through city traffic isn’t challenging.

Features

Both electric hatchbacks are equipped with a touchscreen infotainment system that supports connected car technology, including Android Auto and Apple CarPlay. They also feature a tilt-adjustable steering wheel, digitized driver’s display, height-adjustable driver’s seat, and steering-mounted controls. 

Citroen eC3

Citroen eC3: The eC3 features a 10.25-inch touchscreen infotainment unit, which is larger than that of the Tiago. It also supports wireless Android Auto and Apple CarPlay, but there are some issues with Bluetooth connectivity that could potentially be resolved in the future through a software update. The eC3’s feature list is basic for a top-end variant of an electric vehicle, with several amenities missing, such as passive keyless entry, rear camera, cruise control, automatic AC, and more.

Citroen eC3

Tata Tiago EV: The Tiago EV comes with a smaller 7-inch touchscreen infotainment system, but it compensates with an 8-speaker Harman sound system, push-button start/stop, cruise control, rain-sensing wipers, automatic headlights, a tyre pressure monitoring system (TPMS), a rear parking camera, automatic air conditioning, and more. The digitized instrument cluster in the Tiago is also more advanced and stylish compared to the eC3.

Rear Seat Comfort

Citroen eC3: The eC3 feels more spacious than the Tiago EV. It offers a good space for two people at the rear, while adding one more person would make it a little congested. It also offers ample headroom and legroom.

Tiago EV: The Tiago EV is not as spacious as the eC3, and its rear seat is not suitable for accommodating three people comfortably. While the legroom is adequate, it doesn’t provide the same airy feel as the eC3.

Practicality

Both the eC3 and Tiago EV offer good practicality with cupholders, storage areas, bottle holders, and door pockets. The eC3 has more charging ports and a dedicated smartphone tray. However, the layout of the rear power window controls in the eC3 is not ideal.

Boot Space

The eC3 offers more boot space and comes with a spare wheel. The Tiago EV has less boot space and doesn’t have a spare wheel, as the battery pack is accommodated inside the vehicle.

Boot Space

Citroen eC3

Tata Tiago EV

315 litres

240 litres

Ride Comfort

Both EVs offer good ride comfort, but they have slight variations in their response to road undulations. The eC3 has a more SUV-like riding characteristic due to its ample suspension travel, while the Tiago EV has a more hatchback-like ride. The Tiago EV feels more plush in the city and maintains stability at higher speeds.

Warranty

Both the Tiago EV and Citroen eC3 offer warranty coverage on the battery pack, electric motor, and vehicle. Tata offers a longer warranty period for the battery pack and electric motor compared to Citroen.

Warranty

Citroen eC3

Tata Tiago EV

Battery Pack

7 years / 1,40,000km

8 years/ 1,60,000km

Electric Motor

5 years / 1,00,000km

8 years/ 1,60,000km

Vehicle Warranty

3 years / 1,25,000km

3 years / 1,25,000km

Price & Verdict

Price Check

Citroen eC3

Tata Tiago EV

Rs 11.50 lakh to Rs 12.76 lakh

Rs 8.69 lakh to Rs 12.04 lakh

All prices are ex-showroom Delhi

Both electric vehicles offer a range of over 200km based on our real-world tests, which is practical for city usage. While the eC3 is more focused on space and practicality, the Tata Tiago EV offers more premium amenities and better performance at a lower price. The eC3 costs Rs 90,000 more than the Tiago EV and only offers around 20 kms more of range, but it lacks some key features. This makes Tata’s electric hatchback a better value for money option and a better fit for your family.

So, who should buy these? The eC3 is suitable for those who prioritize space and ground clearance, while the Tiago EV is a better choice for those who want a premium cabin experience and a fun-to-drive electric vehicle.

Read More on: Tata Tiago EV Automatic

Gaming, Technology

Using Bluetooth Earbuds with the PS5: A Guide

When it comes to smart TVs, compatibility and connectivity are key. Fortunately, linking your Bluetooth headset or earbuds to your smart TV is a fairly simple process. Just like the PS4, the PS5 offers a similar method. Here’s how:

Make sure your audio device is in pairing mode, which means it’s visible to other Bluetooth-enabled systems. Then, access the Bluetooth menu in your TV’s settings. Your TV should be able to detect the device you want to connect and pair them together.

Once paired, go to your TV’s audio settings and ensure that the sound output is set to your earbuds or headset instead of the TV’s speakers or any other audio device you may use. This way, the audio will directly play through your chosen device. The great thing is that you can still join party chat with your friends using the microphone on the DualSense controller.

While this method is a convenient option for using Bluetooth audio with the PS5, there is another alternative for those who don’t have a compatible smart TV.

Featured

2024 Rolls-Royce Spectre First Drive: Redefining Luxury

The 2024 Rolls-Royce Spectre is the luxury carmaker’s first electric vehicle, designed to provide an unparalleled silent driving experience. Rolls-Royce has always been known for creating vehicles that offer the utmost comfort, quietness, and opulence. However, even with extensive sound deadening, internal combustion engines still produce some noise. The Spectre aims to achieve true silence by eliminating the internal combustion engine and introducing electric motors and batteries.

To create a truly silent driving experience, the Spectre features over 375 pounds of sound deadening material and a 1,543-pound battery pack that dampens road noise and imperfections. Whether driving on smooth roads or rough asphalt, the Spectre’s isolation is remarkable. It offers complete seclusion from the outside world, setting a new benchmark for luxury.

The Spectre is powered by two separately excited synchronous motors, one in each axle, making it an all-wheel-drive vehicle. The combined output of these motors is 584 horsepower and 664 pound-feet of torque, with most of the power directed to the rear wheels. It reaches 60 mph in 4.4 seconds, offering impressive acceleration. However, the Spectre is more focused on smoothness and tranquility, prioritizing a seamless driving experience over aggressive performance.

The Spectre’s weight is a notable factor, with a curb weight of 6,371 pounds due to its heavy battery pack. To counterbalance this weight gain, Rolls-Royce has distributed the battery evenly throughout the car’s floor, ensuring a low center of gravity. The Spectre’s suspension system and chassis further enhance its comfort by providing a smooth and gliding ride, thanks to its active air suspension, active anti-roll bars, and sensors that constantly adjust to the road conditions.

One of the Spectre’s highlights is its remarkable silence. The electric powertrain eliminates most external noise, allowing for an incredibly quiet cabin. Even on rough roads, only minimal road noise can be heard. Rolls-Royce’s extensive sound deadening efforts combined with the active air suspension system contribute to the Spectre’s exceptional isolation.

The Spectre’s range is estimated to be around 260 miles according to EPA estimates. While this figure may seem lower compared to other electric vehicles on the market, Rolls-Royce found that most owners only travel around 30 miles per day. Charging habits also revealed that owners preferred to charge at home or in the office, reducing reliance on public charging infrastructure.

The interior of the Spectre is characterized by luxurious details and spaciousness. It features large doors, starlight doors that illuminate the lower section of the interior with thousands of stars, and a digital instrument cluster that can be customized to reflect the car’s configuration. The rear seats offer ample head and legroom, making it a comfortable four-seater with a focus on driver experience.

The base price for the Spectre is $420,000, making it a truly high-end luxury vehicle. The first two years of production are already sold out, with delivery times estimated to be in 2025. As Rolls-Royce plans to transition to fully electric vehicles by 2030, the Spectre represents the brand’s first step towards that goal.

In conclusion, the 2024 Rolls-Royce Spectre redefines the luxury car segment with its silent and potent electric powertrain, outstanding comfort, and attention to detail. It sets a new benchmark for luxury and showcases Rolls-Royce’s commitment to providing the ultimate driving experience.

VauxhallUk

Vauxhall Showcases Latest Electric Vehicles at 49th National Association of Police Fleet Managers’ Conference

  • Vauxhall displays its latest electric vehicle range at the 49th National Association of Police Fleet Managers’ Conference
  • The conference reaffirms Vauxhall’s position as a supplier to the UK’s Police Forces
  • Over 100 Vivaro Electric vans, the top-selling e-LCV in the UK, have been adopted by police forces, along with more than 200 Vauxhall Corsa Electrics
  • Forces are showing interest in the upcoming release of the Astra Electric, set to arrive later this summer

Vauxhall is currently exhibiting its latest range of electric vehicles at the 49th National Association of Police Fleet Managers’ Conference (NAPFM) in Telford on July 4th and 5th.

The brand is showcasing its diverse and expanding range of electric vehicles, including a marked Corsa Electric patrol car, Vivaro Electric cell van, and the upcoming Astra Electric. Vauxhall’s special vehicle operations team, led by Richard Abbott, Head of Specialist Fleet, will also be present at the event.

Vauxhall’s participation in the conference underscores its longstanding association with the UK’s Police Forces. As police fleets across the country transition to electric vehicles at a rapid pace, Vauxhall has become a key partner to a number of forces. Starting from next year, Vauxhall will offer an electric version of every vehicle in its lineup and will become an electric-only manufacturer by 2028.

Currently, over 100 Vivaro Electric vans are in use by police forces in the UK, with the first ones deployed over a year ago. In addition, more than 200 Corsa Electric vehicles have been utilized as neighborhood patrol cars since 2021. The upcoming release of the Astra Electric has also generated interest among police forces, ahead of its arrival later this summer.

Prior to its release, the Astra Electric is being modified by fleet specialists to suit police requirements.

James Taylor, Managing Director of Vauxhall, stated, “Vauxhall has had a long-standing association with the UK’s Police Forces, and we are pleased that the forces continue to choose Vauxhall as they transition to electric vehicles. Our presence at the 49th National Association of Police Fleet Managers’ Conference helps demonstrate the range and capabilities of our expanding lineup of electric cars and vans at this critical time.

“Vauxhall is currently one of the few companies in the UK that can offer an electric variant across its entire van range, with the Vivaro Electric being the best-selling electric van in the country. With over 100 already serving as police vehicles, it’s another testament to the capabilities of the Vauxhall electric range.”

News

How the Lucid Air Is Miles Ahead When It Comes To Electric Range

An electric car’s range has always been a major concern for consumers. Until recently, EV battery technology was limited, with most models offering a maximum range of 200 miles. However, Tesla was able to produce electric cars with ranges of 300–400 miles, becoming a leader in the industry. Lucid Motors, a California-based startup founded in 2014, quickly emerged as a strong competitor to Tesla by offering luxurious EV vehicles with similar technology. To gain an edge over Tesla, Lucid launched the Lucid Air in 2021, which became the longest-range electric vehicle (EV) with an EPA rating of 520 miles. With this achievement, the Lucid Air has pushed the boundaries of battery technology by driving over 100 miles longer than any other EV on the market.

Related: 10 Things To Know About The Lucid Air Sapphire

Behind the Record-Breaking Lucid Air

Silver Lucid Air Grand Touring
Lucid Media Room
Front 3/4 shot of the Lucid Air Grand Touring.

Lucid Motors, initially known as Atieva, was a startup focused on battery technology development in 2007. Over the years, it shifted its focus to producing electric cars and hired former Tesla executives. Lucid Motors aimed to create a luxury electric vehicle that could outperform its competitors in multiple aspects. The company partnered with Formula E to supply batteries for electric race cars, gaining expertise in making more efficient electric batteries. Lucid’s batteries lasted the entire duration of Formula E races, setting a new standard at the time.

The knowledge gained from partnerships with McLaren and Formula E was then applied to the development of the Lucid Air. Unveiled in 2016, the Lucid Air initially grabbed attention by defeating the Tesla Model S in a quarter-mile race and setting a track record at Laguna Seca. Although Tesla eventually reclaimed the title for the fastest production EV, the Lucid Air showcased impressive performance capabilities that could not be ignored. However, the most remarkable feature was its long range. In the fall of 2021, the Lucid Air Dream Edition Range received an official EPA rating of 520 miles, making it the first EV to surpass the 500-mile mark.

EVs With The Best Range In The U.S.

Model

Range

Lucid Air

516 miles

Chevrolet Silverado EV

450 miles

Tesla Model S

405 miles

Hyundai Ioniq 6

361 miles

Tesla Model 3

358 miles

The Lucid Air Dream Edition came in two trims, the Dream Edition R and Dream Edition P. The Dream Edition P focused on speed and performance, boasting 1,111 hp, while the Dream Edition R emphasized maximum range. With 933 hp, the Dream Edition R showcased the impressive 520-mile range compared to the Dream Edition P’s 471-mile range. Both trims were released with a starting price of $169,900, and the limited 520 units produced in honor of the record range sold out immediately. So, how did Lucid achieve this impressive range in its EV? It all comes down to the in-house technology used by Lucid Motors.

Related: 10 Reasons Why The Lucid Air Is The Best Electric Car In 2023

Under The Skin Of The Lucid Air

Blue Lucid Air Sapphire
Lucid Media Room
Rear shot of the Lucid Air Sapphire racing on the track.

EVs are generally heavier than gas-powered vehicles due to their electric batteries, which can weigh anywhere from 1000 to 3000 pounds in larger vehicles. To tackle this weight issue, Lucid Motors focused on making everything else in its car as light as possible. Taking inspiration from the D-Type Jaguar, the automaker constructed the Lucid Air like an airplane. The aluminum body is formed through casting and extrusion, resulting in a rigid yet lightweight frame. Lucid packages its batteries in lightweight composite material, and their placement underneath the shell optimizes control and efficiency for both the driver and car.

Jean-Charles Monnet, Lucid Motors’ head aerodynamicist, designed the car’s aerodynamics to maximize its range. With past experience working on Red Bull’s Formula 1 car, Monnet brought F1 technology to the Lucid Air. Twin passages were added to the outside of the hood to direct airflow over the car, while small end plates beneath the car funnel air to the rear diffuser. The company’s claim of being “the most aerodynamically efficient luxury car” was confirmed through testing at Windshear’s rolling-road wind tunnel, where the Air achieved a drag coefficient of 0.21. The Air features a 900-volt electrical system, compared to the industry-standard 400 volts, allowing for smaller and lighter electrical components. By combining the motor, inverter, gears, and differential into a single unit, Lucid reduces the overall weight pushed around by the motors. This increased efficiency also provides more interior space for passengers and larger cargo space compared to Tesla models.

Lucid also enhanced the power generation capabilities of the Lucid Air’s motor. By optimizing the placement of rotor magnets, the Lucid Air generates more power with a motor that is 30 percent smaller than the one in the Tesla Model 3. This allows for more efficient transfer of energy from the battery to the powertrain, using only 27 kilowatt-hours of power per 100 miles. To improve efficiency further, Lucid streamlined the heating and cooling systems in the car. The higher voltage battery reduces heat output, leading to less power required for cooling.

The battery packaging in the Lucid Air differs from that of its competitors. While other automakers cool their batteries from the side, Lucid employs bottom cooling. This simplified battery packaging process prevents overheating and allows for better cooling throughout the entire vehicle. Additionally, the Air has front air inlets designed in-house that distribute air evenly over the radiator for maximum cooling. By integrating all of these innovative technologies, Lucid Motors has produced the most efficient and longest-range EV to date with the Lucid Air.

Related: Top 10 EVs With The Longest Range In 2023

What’s Next For Lucid Motors?

Silver Lucid Gravity
Lucid Media Room
Front shot of Lucid Motor’s first SUV—the Lucid Gravity.

Although Lucid Motors delivered more Lucid Air models than originally promised in 2022, the company still faces obstacles in the near future. The entire EV industry is grappling with supply chain and logistics issues, leading to rising material costs. Battery production costs increased by seven percent in 2022, resulting in a price increase for the Lucid Air model. In contrast, Tesla managed to lower prices for most of its models.

In order to remain competitive, Lucid Motors needs to find ways to decrease expenses. The company had to reduce production in 2021 and 2022 and also delayed the release of its new all-electric SUV, the Lucid Gravity. While specific details about the Lucid Gravity are still unknown, many anticipate it to have similar capabilities to the Lucid Air, with impressive range and performance ratings. As inflation and interest rates continue to rise, it remains to be seen how Lucid Motors will address these challenges and continue to compete with Tesla and other EV automakers.

News

How the Lucid Air Is Miles Ahead When It Comes To Electric Range

An electric car’s range has always been a major turnoff for automobile consumers. Until recently, EV battery technology wasn’t capable of long-range driving with models maxing out at 200 miles. Tesla was the forerunner in mass-producing electric cars, reaching ranges of 300–400 miles. Lucid Motors, a startup also founded in California back in 2014, quickly became one of Tesla’s main competitors. Offering luxurious EV vehicles with technology similar to Tesla, Lucid needed a feature to gain the upper hand. Back in 2021, Lucid launched the Lucid Air to compete with the Tesla Model S and boasted an EV record 520-mile EPA range. Able to drive over 100 miles longer than any other EV on the market, the Lucid Air is pushing the boundaries for battery technology.

Related: 10 Things To Know About The Lucid Air Sapphire

Behind the Record-Breaking Lucid Air

Silver Lucid Air Grand Touring
Lucid Media Room
Front 3/4 shot of the Lucid Air Grand Touring. 

Lucid Motors was originally a startup under the alternative name, Atieva, and focused on developing battery technology back in 2007. Over the years, they transitioned their focus to producing electric cars and added more employees including ex-Tesla executives. Lucid Motors’ goal was to develop a luxury electric vehicle that could outperform its competition in several facets. The CEO, Peter Rawlinson, made a deal with Formula E to supply batteries for the electric race cars. The partnership allowed Lucid Motors to gain expertise in making more efficient electric batteries. Lucid produced batteries that lasted the entire duration of Formula E races which was unheard of at the time.

Lucid Motors translated the new knowledge learned from its partnership with McLaren and Formula E into its flagship model—the Lucid Air. Originally unveiled in 2016, the prototype turned heads in the EV world when it beat the Tesla Model S in a quarter-mile race and later went on to beat the Tesla Model S Plaid’s track record at Laguna Seca. Although Tesla eventually took back the crown for the fastest production EV, the Lucid Air showed off impressive performance capabilities that could not be ignored. However, the most impressive feature was the Air’s long range. In the Fall of 2021, the official EPA rating was released for two of the four Lucid Air trims. The Dream Edition Range was given an official range of 520 miles, the first EV to ever pass the 500-mile mark.

EVs With The Best Range In The U.S.

Model

Range

Lucid Air

516 miles

Chevrolet Silverado EV

450 miles

Tesla Model S

405 miles

Hyundai Ioniq 6

361 miles

Tesla Model 3

358 miles

The Lucid Air Dream Edition came in two trims, the Dream Edition R and Dream Edition P. The Dream Edition P was geared more towards speed and performance boasting 1,111 hp whereas the Dream Edition R was optimized for maximum range. Although the Dream Edition R “only” had 933 hp, it showed off the infamous 520-mile range compared to the Dream Edition P’s range of 471 miles. Both were released with a starting price of $169,900 and the limited 520 units produced in honor of the 520-mile record range immediately sold out. But how exactly was Lucid able to achieve the impressive range with its EV? It’s all behind the in-house technology at Lucid Motors.

Related: 10 Reasons Why The Lucid Air Is The Best Electric Car In 2023

Under The Skin Of The Lucid Air

Blue Lucid Air Sapphire
Lucid Media Room
Rear shot of the Lucid Air Sapphire racing on the track. 

It’s a known fact that EVs are distinctly heavier than gas-powered vehicles due to the electric battery. EV batteries alone weigh anything from 1000 pounds up to 3000 pounds in larger vehicles. With this in mind, Lucid Motors had to make everything else besides the battery in its car as light as possible. Using a technique seen in cars like the D-Type Jaguar, the automakers constructed the Lucid Air like an airplane. The aluminum body is formed by casting and extrusion, a process that makes the frame very rigid while also extremely light. Lucid packages its batteries in lightweight composite material and its rigid placement underneath the shell optimizes its control and efficiency for both the driver and car.

Lucid Motors’ head aerodynamicist, Jean-Charles Monnet, designed the car’s aerodynamics to maximize its range potential. Having worked previously with Red Bull’s Formula 1 car, Monnet brought F1 technology to the Lucid Air. Twin passages were added to the outside of the hood pushing the air up and over the car while small end plates are placed on the side underneath the car to funnel air to the rear diffuser. The company’s claims of being “the most aerodynamically efficient luxury car” were put to the test at Windshear’s rolling-road wind tunnel where the Air achieved a drag coefficient of 0.21. The Air features a 900-volt electrical system, compared to the industry standard 400 volts, which allows the automakers to reduce the size and weight of a number of other electrical components. Lucid was able to combine the motor, inverter, gears, and differential into a single small unit, reducing the amount of weight needed to be pushed around by the motors. This increased efficiency also allows more room for passengers inside and larger cargo space than Tesla models.

Shrinking the drive unit produces a denser magnetic field, and by optimizing the rotor magnets’ placement, the Lucid Air is able to generate more power in a motor 30 percent smaller than the Tesla Model 3’s. Lucid then is able to transfer the energy generated from its battery to its powertrain more efficiently than any other EV on the market, using 27 kilowatt-hours of power per 100 miles. An additional feature that Lucid cut inefficiencies from was the heating and cooling systems in the car. The higher voltage battery already reduces the amount of heat usually present by decreasing the power output necessary to run the cooling systems.

The battery packaging in the Lucid Air is quite different from that of its competitors. While automakers like Tesla cool their batteries from the side, requiring additional complex processes, the Lucid cools its cell from the bottom. The automakers then apply a heat-conducting adhesive when closing the module and use low resistance (in turn lower heat) wires to solder the cells to the bus bars. This simplified battery packaging process prevents the EV from overheating and allows for better cooling throughout the entire vehicle. The Air also has front air inlets designed in-house that funnel air into twin cortexes. There the air is distributed evenly over the radiator to ensure maximum cooling. Combine all of Lucid Motors’ innovative technology together, and you get the most efficient and longest-range EV ever produced with the Lucid Aid.

Related: Top 10 EVs With The Longest Range In 2023

What’s Next For Lucid Motors?

Silver Lucid Gravity
Lucid Media Room
Front shot of Lucid Motor’s first SUV—the Lucid Gravity.

While the company actually over-delivered its Lucid Air models producing 7,180 of the originally promised 7,000 vehicles in 2022, the increasingly popular EV company still has some obstacles to overcome in the near future. The EV industry as a whole is experiencing supply chain and logistic issues with the constant rise of material costs. Battery production costs rose by seven-percent in 2022 and it doesn’t look like it’s falling anytime soon with the current trends. The Lucid Air already saw a price increase in the middle of 2022, partly due to this problem. In spite of this, Lucid Motors’ main competitor Tesla was able to decrease prices on almost all of its models.

To remain competitive, Lucid needs to figure out how to decrease expenses as they already had to cut production in half in 2021 and 2022. Lucid also had to push back the release date of its new all-electric SUV—the Lucid Gravity. While much of its specifications are still unannounced, many expect the SUV to feature similar capabilities as the sedan boasting impressive range and performance ratings. As inflation and interest rates continue to rise, only time will tell how the popular Lucid brand will be able to combat these issues and continue to compete with the likes of Tesla and other EV automakers.

News

New 2023 BMW X1 M35i: A Powerful Performance Upgrade

The new BMW X1 now has a performance variant called the M35i, which aims to rival the Mercedes-AMG GLA 35. This upgraded model features various chassis and engine enhancements.

Under the hood, the X1 M35i is equipped with a turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder petrol engine, similar to the ones found in the BMW 2 Series Coupé, Morgan Plus Four, and Toyota GR Supra. With upgrades, this engine now produces 296 horsepower and 295 pound-feet of torque. It can accelerate from 0 to 62 mph in just 5.4 seconds, slightly slower than the GLA 35 by 0.2 seconds.

All-wheel drive is standard on the X1 M35i, and power is transmitted through a seven-speed torque-converter automatic gearbox. Improved traction is achieved with the addition of a mechanical limited-slip differential at the front end.

For enhanced handling, the M35i comes with adaptive suspension as standard, lowering the ride height by 15mm compared to regular X1 models. The stability control and traction control systems have also been revised, allowing for faster corrective inputs.

On the outside, the M35i features a more aggressive bodykit with larger air dams at the front, along with a prominent rear spoiler and a quad-exhaust-pipe arrangement.

The interior of the M35i receives sportier seats with increased bolstering. Optional M Sport buckets are available as well. The steering wheel is adorned with M Sport stitching, while the rest of the interior remains similar to the standard X1.

The price for the X1 M35i in the UK starts at £45,995, which is £7,125 less than the GLA 35 but nearly £6,000 more than the outgoing Mini Countryman JCW. European customers can expect deliveries to begin in November.

BMW X1 M35i 2023 interior

News

New 2023 BMW X1 M35i brings 296bhp for £45,995

The M performance variant of the new BMW X1 has arrived, bringing a range of chassis and engine tweaks aimed at usurping the Mercedes-AMG GLA 35.

Called the X1 M35i, it’s powered by an upgraded version of the turbocharged 2.0-litre four-cylinder petrol engine featured in the BMW 2 Series Coupé, Morgan Plus Four and Toyota GR Supra, among others. In the M35i, its power and torque outputs peak at 296bhp and 295lb ft, allowing the crossover to complete the 0-62mph sprint in 5.4sec – 0.2sec behind the GLA 35.

Power is delivered to all four wheels through a seven-speed torque-converter automatic gearbox, with a mechanical limited-slip differential improving traction at the front end.

As for chassis tweaks, adaptive suspension is fitted as standard to the M35i, which sits 15mm lower than conventional variants of the X1. The stability control and traction control systems have also been revised to reduce the length of their physical connections, allowing them to provide corrective inputs up to 10 times faster than before.

New 19in alloy wheels are fitted as standard, reducing unsprung weight and providing enough room for optional M Compound brakes. These discs – 385mm drilled units up front and regular 335mm items at the rear – are made from cast iron and aluminium and are claimed by BMW to improve stopping power while further reducing unsprung weight.

BMW X1 M35i 2023 interior

To further distinguish the M35i from regular X1s visually, it receives a more aggressive bodykit with larger air dams at the front. At the rear is a more prominent spoiler and quad-exhaust-pipe arrangement.

Inside, the M35i gains a pair of more aggressively bolstered sports seats, but buyers can also specify the optional M Sport buckets pictured here. An M Sport leather stitched steering wheel is standard, but the rest of the interior largely mirrors the regular X1.

Prices start from £45,995 in the UK – £7125 less than the GLA 35 but nearly £6000 more than the outgoing Mini Countryman JCW. European deliveries begin in November.

Car review

Human Horizons HiPhi Z

hiphi z review 2023

The Human Horizons HiPhi Z is a five-meter long, all-electric, four-door shooting brake GT. It boasts 663bhp of power, an electric range of nearly 350 miles (WLTP certified), and a unique design inspired by Japanese manga and BMW i-brand. The car also pays tribute to the digital technology that Human Horizons believes to be the future of mobility.

The design of the HiPhi Z is quite unconventional, with flashing LED light strips and bulky sensors covering the exterior. It stands out among other electric vehicle (EV) makers who often rely on a more conventional design. Although it may not be as visually appealing as other models like the Porsche Taycan, the HiPhi Z definitely grabs attention.

Inside the car, the digital technology is even more prominent. The car features a motorized door for entry and a slightly high driving position. While the headroom may be tight by luxury car standards, the second row offers ample space for adult passengers. The materials used in the cabin are of high quality, surpassing Tesla at a similar stage of development. The overall ambience is rich and inviting.

One of the main highlights of the cabin is the 15.0-inch touchscreen infotainment system called the HiPhi Bot. It is mounted on a robotized arm, capable of automatically pivoting towards the driver or the front passenger based on their gaze. The system is highly responsive and clear, although the pivot mounting is seen as more of a gimmick than a practical addition. The HiPhi Z caters to those who enjoy the latest mobile phones with large screens and fancy cameras, or those who own the largest OLED TVs for their living rooms.

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3 Things To Know About Shikhar Dhawan’s Latest Ride, The Land Rover Range Rover Autobiography


The Range Rover sits at the pinnacle of off-road capable luxury SUVs

Shikhar Dhawan, the opening batsman of the Indian cricket team, has added the Land Rover Range Rover Autobiography to his car collection, marking the beginning of a new drive for him. Dhawan recently shared a video on Instagram, showing him enjoying his black SUV and grooving to a Punjabi song. Here are three key highlights about the Range Rover that you should know.

Opulent Interiors

The Range Rover Autobiography offers luxurious interiors comparable to a five-star hotel room on wheels. Inside, it features Semi-Aniline leather seats with SV Bespoke Duo Tone Leather headlining. The cabin is equipped with comfort-enhancing features such as 24-way heated and cooled massage electric front seats, executive class rear seats, four-zone climate control, and a Meridian surround sound system. It also comes with a 13.1-inch touchscreen system that supports wireless Android Auto and Apple CarPlay.

A Plethora Of Powertrain Options

The Range Rover Autobiography offers multiple powertrain options, including petrol and diesel engines. The 3-litre six-cylinder petrol engine generates 400PS/550Nm, while the 3-litre diesel engine produces 350PS/700Nm. There is also a 4.4-litre twin-turbo V8 variant that delivers 530PS/750Nm and can accelerate from 0 to 100kmph in 4.7 seconds. All engines are combined with 48-V mild hybrid motors and an 8-speed automatic transmission that transfers power to all four wheels. The specific powertrain in Shikhar Dhawan’s Range Rover is unknown.

Still A Land Rover

Although the Range Rover Autobiography offers luxurious features, it still retains the off-road capabilities associated with Land Rover vehicles. It features Land Rover’s Terrain Response 2 system, which includes eight terrain modes such as rock crawl, grass, gravel, mud and ruts, sand, snow, and an auto mode. It also has a general driving mode suitable for muddy or waterlogged surfaces. The SUV has a water wading capacity of 900mm.
The Range Rover Autobiography’s dynamics are enhanced by all-wheel steering, an electronic air suspension system, and an open differential with torque vectoring by braking, which optimizes traction from the rear axle during high-speed cornering. It also controls understeer or oversteer by applying controlled brakes and monitoring torque distribution.

Price & Rivals

The Land Rover Range Rover Autobiography is priced between Rs 2.39 crore and Rs 4.17 crore (ex-showroom pan India). It competes with the Lexus LX and Mercedes-Benz Maybach GLS, while the top variant is priced similarly to the Bentley Bentayga.

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