Capable of internet hosting EVs ranging between 4.86m and 5.95m in size, the SOA platform is designed to optimise inside area, ease of entry, rolling refinement and vary – and can underpin a variety of enormous industrial and passenger automobiles separate from the UK-built TX taxi and VN5 van.
Details revealed by Chinese media recommend the L380 measures 5316mm lengthy, 1998mm vast and 1940mm tall and weighs 2805kg.
Its eight seats are organized throughout 4 rows of two, with the rearmost in a position to be folded and stowed and the third row in a position to slide forwards and backwards to spice up legroom.
A extra luxurious six-seater, little doubt with the requisite tools and performance to rival the brand new Lexus LM, may also be provided.
LEVC will verify full technical particulars subsequent yr, however early experiences recommend the L380 shall be provided with the identical 268bhp front-mounted motor because the technically associated EM90 MPV from sibling model Volvo and a selection of both a 73kWh or 120kWh battery for a most vary of 432 miles.
LEVC has confirmed that the SOA platform will underpin EVs with greater than 536bhp from a dual-motor, four-wheel-drive powertrain, nevertheless it hasn’t but mentioned whether or not the L380 will provide a selection of outputs.
It’s 2024, and we’re now not strangers to trace weapons. We are spoiled by choices, ranging from the Paton S1-R to the Ducati Superleggera V4. There are even ultra-exclusive monitor bikes, just like the Brough Superior Aston Martin AMB 001 Pro, which is so uncommon, you won’t even see one in your restricted time on the earth. In this sea of superior cutting-edge bikes, the place does the KTM RC 8C stand? The higher echelon of the phase, that is the place!
It’s not the quickest, neither is it the lightest. It makes use of a manufacturing engine from a road bike and doesn’t use many particularly mind-blowing components like an ultra-light chassis or compelled induction. Still, it brings a recent take to the phase, taking out over-the-top options in favor of ones that truly make a distinction on the monitor. It’s fast and light-weight, suspended on terrific suspension, and able to race proper out of the manufacturing facility flooring.
In order to provide the most recent and correct info attainable, the information used to compile this text was sourced from KTM.
The 2024 KTM RC 8C is literally ready to race, similar to its predecessors. The Austrian agency has labored with Kramer Motorcycles to present this bike numerous options solely discovered on competitors bikes. For instance, the gasoline tank is built-in into the subframe for mass centralization. This additionally makes it straightforward to empty for storage and transport.
Quick-change meeting and axle setup (wheels could be swapped out with out taking the brakes aside)
Safety-wired objects like oil drain screws, oil filter covers, caliper bolts, and so on.
9Electronics That Cut Down Lap Times
KTM
Finding electronics on fashionable race bikes is like discovering water on earth. But what makes the RC 8C particular is that you simply get to log your efficiency metrics. The bike integrates the AIM MXS 1.2 RACE dashboard and knowledge logger with built-in GPS, which information knowledge constantly. You can then use AIM RaceStudio to investigate the race knowledge with precision.
Ergonomics of your monitor bike are as vital because the underpants you put on — in case you’re uncomfortable, you gained’t take pleasure in your day. Fortunately, the RC 8C ensures final monitor day consolation (and dealing with) for you because of an array of adjustable touchpoints and parts. You get adjustable handlebars and footpegs to seek out the very best using triangle for you; the eccentric subframe mount additionally means that you can alter the seat peak. If that wasn’t sufficient, you’ll be able to even alter the steering head and triple clamp offset to permit for sooner turn-in or enhance high-speed stability.
The KTM RC 8C is a beautiful motorbike. But beneath the flyline lie parts which might be nothing wanting superior. According to KTM, the light-weight GRP fairings, bolstered with carbon kevlar, are the closest you will get to a correct GP bike. Not shocking, because the design is impressed by the KTM RC16, in spite of everything. This is full with aerodynamic winglets that generate downforce to enhance braking confidence.
Design Highlights
Carbon kevlar-reinforced fairings are quick-release, engineered to get replaced shortly
Swingarm scoop not solely will increase downforce but in addition directs cool air to the rear tire
Carbon fiber entrance fender with fast lock system channels air over the brakes and into the radiator
White fairings are a clean canvas for sponsor stickers
Design is purposeful, focussed on aerodynamics and lightness, with no frills and gimmicks
6(WP) Apex Predator Levels Of Handling
Chassis Type: Chrome-moly Tubular Space Frame
KTM
Track weapons are as a lot about dealing with as velocity, and KTM is synonymous with razor-sharp handling. The RC 8C guarantees to reside as much as these benchmarks set by the Orange model and different race bikes. It will get a purpose-built 25CrMo4 metal tubular body suspended on some of the subtle suspension setups within the middleweight class.
The entrance suspension obligation is dealt with by a high-performance WP Apex Pro 7543 closed cartridge fork, and the rear is supported by a WP Apex Pro 7746 monoshock. Both entrance forks and monoshock are totally adjustable and tailor-made for monitor use. Together, the sunshine chassis and suspension ought to make the RC 8C among the finest dealing with monitor weapons of 2024.
5The Best Of Brembo For Neck-Breaking Braking Performance
KTM
It’s not typically {that a} braking system makes you go WOAH, however the RC 8C manages to try this, too. The bike uses MotoGP-derived Brembo 19RCS Corsa Corta radial master cylinders with an adjustable chunk (from gradual to sharp) and a Ratio Click System that enables adjustable attain. Brembo Stylema monobloc calipers deal with the braking duties on the entrance and a Brembo two-pot caliper does the identical for the rear. All are clamped on totally floating discs with aluminum rotors and titanium screws. This one ought to drop an anchor nearly nearly as good as any monitor bike can.
Time so that you can set a brand new 60 to 0mph report in your motorbike
4LC8c Twin Tuned For Moto2 Levels Of Performance
Power Output: 132.76 HP
Under all of the attractive bodywork, you continue to get the identical engine from the 890 Duke. Don’t knock it down simply but, although. The LC8c engine comes with a radical inside makeover, delivering extra energy and a better rev ceiling of 12,000 RPM! Plus, because it’s a manufacturing engine, KTM claims it’s extra dependable than track-only platforms.
Engine Highlights
Air filter field with a Twin Air Filter maximizes air consumption and throttle response
Precision engine administration system and new gasoline pump meet the calls for of the RAM air consumption system
Channeled physique panels direct extra air into the airbox for explosive energy supply
Gets Akrapovic titanium racing exhaust with carbon silencer cap
Inlet valves, exhaust valves, and connecting rods are titanium
Cylinder head ports and combustion chamber are machined
New 48mm throttle physique
Extra oil cooler retains the engine temps in verify
Engine And Performance Specifications
Engine Type
LC8c parallel-twin, DOHC, liquid-cooled
Displacement
889cc
Torque Output
72.32 LB-FT
EMS
Bosch EMS with RBW
Clutch
PASC anti-hopping clutch
Top Speed
TBA
(Specs sourced from KTM)
3A Near 1:1 Power-To-Weight Ratio
KTM
The KTM RC 8C produces 132 HP and solely weighs a measly 313 kilos (142kg), which provides it a close to 1:1 power-to-weight (hp/kg) ratio. So, though the power delivery may not look like much when compared to superbikes, this one weighs so much much less and may shoot off the beginning line like an unhinged missile. Only a couple of bikes can beat this race bike’s power-to-weight ratio.
More energy, much less weight: recipe for final enjoyable
2Made Better With Track Parts Package
KTM
KTM additionally provides a Track Parts package deal that you could buy together with your RC 8C. While this package deal could not convey any efficiency enhance, it does promise to make your monitor days seamless and cozy. Also, in case you’re spending a lot, you may as nicely spend a bit extra and get this for the last word 2024 KTM RC 8C expertise!
Track Parts Package
Extra set of Dymag wheels (entrance and rear)
Extra set of entrance and rear brake discs
Front and rear paddock stands
Tire heaters
KTM race carpet
1KTM At Its Best And Most Exclusive
Starting MSRP: $41,499
KTM
The 2024 KTM RC 8C is a restricted version motorbike with solely 100 items accessible on the market. Each unit is hand-built and able to race, however you’ll should spend north of forty thousand {dollars} to get your palms on one. The pre-order portal went live on 20th March, and there is a strong probability all examples are already referred to as for. After all, bear in mind, the 2023 RC 8C offered out in three minutes!
Ford has emerged as an EV underdog prior to now few years, releasing fashions ranging in worth, specs, and total efficiency means. Up till now, the model sees itself slowly rising its electrical powertrain choices, with SUVs, vans, and even work automobiles now swapping out gasoline for charging programs.
For 2024, although, it is price mentioning Ford has nice choices for you within the EV area, especially with its Mach-E lineup and F-150 Lightning truck. Although not all of those will essentially be “cheap” of their greater trims, in comparison with a lot of the electrical automobile market, Ford does are inclined to fall into the center floor concerning its pricing.
In this publish, we’ll cowl the electrical fashions Ford at present presents to you, in addition to rank them from most to least costly. Remember, you still get a federal tax credit for Ford fashions, so your financial savings could outweigh the preliminary price of constructing the large electrical dive! It’s the 12 months of electrical automobiles, and with Ford, you do not have to interrupt the financial institution. Let’s dive in.
In order to provide the most modern and correct data attainable, the info used to compile this text was sourced from Ford and different authoritative sources, together with Car and Driver and Motor Trend. The Models beneath have been ranked primarily based on their beginning MSRP.
What does it imply to go Mach 1? For Ford, here is the way it meant taking the Mustang to new heights and speeds to blow previous its rivals!
12024 Ford F-150 Lightning
Starting MSRP: $54,995
One of the extra reasonably priced EV pickup vans in the marketplace from Ford is the F-150 Lightning. Debuting in 2022, this model has become a top choice due to its worth and high quality. Inside a 2024 model of this EV pickup, you will have a 98-131 kWh lithium-ion battery boasting between 240 and 300 miles of range per full charge.
There are 5 distinctive trims to select from this 12 months as properly: Pro, XLT, Flash, Lariat, and Platinum. You can count on your top-performing F-150 Lightning to be the Lariat and Platinum trim ranges. Ford has typically been a middle-ground worth level for fuel and electrical mannequin buyers, though a few of its EV pricing could shock you (in a great way).
What’s New For 2024?
Ford
This mannequin 12 months sees a number of adjustments, with essentially the most noticeable ones being the newly-introduced Platinum Black particular version, which presents the Lightning in a matte-black wrap plus darkish 22-inch wheels, a darkish grille, and matching badging.
Moreover, we get the ‘Flash’ trim added to the F-150 Lightning household, providing you top-line know-how bundled in an reasonably priced bundle that features the bigger 15.5-inch infotainment display and Ford’s Blue Cruise driver-assistance characteristic. Ford has also been running continued deals on its electrical pickup truck, as gross sales have slowed in favor of hybrids, in order that’s good leverage if you arrive on the dealership.
Trims Breakdown
Highlighted Feature
Price
Pro
98 kWh lithium-ion battery, 462 horsepower, and 240 miles of vary.
$54,995
XLT
98 kWh lithium-ion battery, 462 horsepower, and 320 miles of vary.
$64,995
Flash
131 kWh lithium-ion battery, 580 horsepower, and 320 miles of vary.
$73,495
Lariat
131 kWh lithium-ion battery, 580 horsepower, and 320 miles of vary.
$79,495
Platinum
131 kWh lithium-ion battery, 580 horsepower, and 300 miles of vary.
$84,995
(Table knowledge sourced from Ford)
Performance Specs
Motor
Dual electrical motor
Transmission
Four-speed computerized
Horsepower
462 to 580 horses
Torque
775 pound-feet
Driveline
All-wheel drive
0-60 MPH
4.2 seconds
Top Speed
~107 MPH
Towing Capacity
5,000-8,500 kilos
Payload Capacity
1,657 to 2,235 kilos
(Table knowledge sourced from Ford and MotorTrend)
Again, for what you are getting, the 2024 Ford F-150 is a superb alternative for these wanting one thing luxurious-feeling however not essentially overly priced in decrease trims.
Pros
Quicker than the 700-horsepower Raptor R in 60 MPH testing.
Spacious cabin and spectacular passenger seating.
Resembles the gas-version of F-150.
Cons
Higher trims, like Platinum, do not provide one of the best vary.
Lower than anticipated towing vary.
Higher MSRP in deluxe trims than the earlier gen.
22024 Ford E-Transit
MSRP: Starting from $51,490
The subsequent step nearer to Ford’s most cost-effective electrical mannequin this 12 months is the 2024 E-Transit cargo van. Not solely has this been a longtime favourite for firms and laborers, but the E-Transit continues to evolve into the following era of true work-friendly EV design.
Boasting a 68.0-kWh lithium-ion battery that is good for as much as 126 miles of driving, the E-Transit is a pleasant alternative for short-distance cargo and journey. You additionally produce other fashions in the marketplace that are not fairly as passenger-friendly in comparison with the Ford E-Transit, so that is nice for small companies counting on it for on a regular basis work.
What’s New For 2024?
Ford
The Ford E-Transit would not see many adjustments in 2024, as it is a carryover mannequin. There are some minor upgrades, although, together with a keyless entry and begin system commonplace throughout the board. You additionally see up to date headlamps with HID bulbs.
This mannequin builds on the gas-powered Transit, so you’ll be able to count on them to be very comparable from a design standpoint. You’re not getting fairly as many miles per cost because the Lightning or Mach-E with the E-Transit, however for shorter-distance journey, it must be ample.
Trims Breakdown
Highlighted Features
Price
Cutaway
68.0-kWh lithium-ion battery, 266 horsepower, and 126 miles.
$48,090
Chassis Cab
68.0-kWh lithium-ion battery, 266 horsepower, and 126 miles.
$48,590
Cargo Van
68.0-kWh lithium-ion battery, 266 horsepower, and 126 miles.
$53,585
Table knowledge sourced from Car and Driver
It’s price noting the variations listed here are the Cargo Van trim is fit for actual passengers. At the identical time, the Cutaway and Chassis Cab are higher fitted to being modified by upfitters for a selected obligation.
Performance Specs
Motor
Single electrical motor
Transmission
Single-speed computerized
Horsepower
266 horses
Torque
317 pound-feet
Driveline
Rear-wheel drive
(Table knowledge sourced from Ford and Car and Driver)
Although that is extra of a piece car, the Ford E-Transit is a pleasant, reasonably priced alternative for enterprise homeowners and contractors. We advocate upgrading to the Cargo Van trim for higher passenger area and merchandise storage.
Pros
Class-leading affordability
Similar specs throughout the board
Good for short-term journey
Cons
Doesn’t go far sufficient for a lot of
Needs to cost for prolonged durations
Non-cargo van fashions could really feel cramped
32024 Ford Mustang Mach-E
Starting from: $43,495
The most cost-effective Ford EV you can begin with in 2024 is the ever-loved Mach-E SUV. What makes this mannequin shine is its affordability, versatility, and modern design. Often in comparison with the Tesla Model Y, the Mach-E follows the Mustang nameplate, providing pace, vary, and efficiency for days. You can count on a 91 kWh 404 V lithium-ion battery inside your car, plus 226 to 312 miles on a full cost. The Mach-E additionally continues to be a pleasant various to fashions just like the Tesla Model Y and the Fisker Ocean, typically feeling sexier to drivers. There’s simply one thing about it that individuals are obsessed about.
What’s New For 2024?
Ford
2024 brings a way more adventurous tone to the Ford Mach-E lineup with the most recent ‘Rally’ trim. This choice brings a variant aimed at light off-road capability, in addition to sportier detailing on the outside. Moreover, the newest-gen Mach-E boasts aggressive rubber tires as commonplace, and by spring of this 12 months, you can use Tesla Superchargers in your Mach-E. This makes looking for EVs from Ford all of the simpler, in addition to opening the door to longer-distance journey. It’s a win-win!
Trims Comparison
Highlighted Features
Price
Select
70-91 kWh 404 V lithium-ion battery, 266-290 horsepower, 226 miles
$43,495
Premium
70-91 kWh 404 V lithium-ion battery, 266-290 horsepower, ~250 miles
$46,995
California Route 1
91 kWh 404 V lithium-ion battery, 266 to 346 horsepower, 312 miles
~$56,000-$58,000
GT
91 kWh 404 V lithium-ion battery, 480 horsepower, 224 miles
~$62,000
Rally
91-kWh 404 V lithium-ion battery, 480 horsepower, 250 miles
~$65,000
GT Performance Edition
91 kWh 404 V lithium-ion battery, 480 horsepower, 270 miles
~$65,000+
Table knowledge sourced from Car and Driver and Motor Trend
Performance Specs
Motor
Single or twin electrical motor
Transmission
Single-speed computerized
Horsepower
226 to 480 horses
Torque
317 to 428 pound-feet
Driveline
AWD or RWD
0-60 MPH
3.5 seconds
Top Speed
114-120 MPH
(Table knowledge sourced from Ford and Car and Driver)
As your “cheapest” choice in Ford’s present electrical lineup, the Mach-E stands as a sexy, fast, and capable SUV option for single riders or households. Your finest vary is within the greater trims, though most individuals are completely blissful in base ‘Select’ or ‘Limited’ fashions.
Barn finds are available in all styles and sizes, starting from automobiles packed in a shed to a single particular car sitting forgotten in a discipline. This one is especially bizarre, although. It’s a one-off three wheeler that makes use of a Citroën 2CV engine to energy the entrance wheels. And it hasn’t run in 25 years.
If you are unfamiliar with the Citroën 2CV, consider it just like the Volkswagen Beetle of France. Following World War II, it was the individuals’s automotive of selection, offering fundamental transportation on tough roads for an inexpensive value. Power got here from a flat-twin engine driving the entrance wheels. Production ran from 1948 by 1990, with hundreds of thousands of items offered.
This car will not be a normal 2CV, although. It takes the Citroën working gear and crafts a sporty physique round it. The consequence appears to be like like a French tackle the basic Morgan Three-Wheeler, together with some wooden parts of the body below the metallic physique.
The physique seems to be from hand-formed items of metallic, with some very fundamental leather-based upholstery within the cabin. There are additionally Brooklands-style windshield items with no bezel that manually flip up.
The host of the video makes an attempt to get this automotive working once more regardless of the decrepit situation. Thankfully, the 2CV’s engine is about so simple as issues get. The powerplant does not need to run at first, nevertheless it does flip over, which is an effective signal. This mill has factors for the ignition, so this man simply cleans them off with sandpaper.
Finally, spraying some beginning fluid into the carb will get the engine going. It runs tough at first however ultimately settles right into a clean idle. Sadly, we do not really get to see this bizarre machine on the transfer. Even with the engine working, we do not know the transmission’s well being, nor do we all know what else is critical to place this weird machine on the street once more.
Anyone who owns a mission automotive understands that each little step is a hit. Getting the engine working is a giant step. Making the transmission work can also be important progress. Working brakes are a victory. We cannot wait to see this weird machine working once more.
The electrical automobile market in India grew throughout segments starting from entry-level choices to top-of-the-line luxurious in addition to excessive efficiency
The development of the Indian electrical automobile market is choosing up tempo and as new know-how and higher EV infrastructure was launched, an increasing number of carmakers began getting into the Indian EV house. A first-rate instance of this development is the 12 months 2023 itself, by which 12 electrical vehicles have been launched in numerous segments, 11 of which have been all new fashions, giving new EV consumers a number of decisions for all costs and functions. Here are all the electrical vehicles that entered the market this 12 months:
BMW i7
Price: Rs 2.03 crore to Rs 2.50 crore
The first new EV of 2023 was a flagship luxurious providing from Germany. BMW launched its luxurious electrical sedan in early January alongside the brand new 7 collection. The BMW i7 homes an enormous 101.7 kWh battery pack and is obtainable with two powertrain choices together with an M variant that makes 650 PS and 1015 Nm. The luxurious electrical sedan has a claimed vary of as much as 625 km. You can be taught extra about it in its launch report.
Hyundai IONIQ 5
Price: Rs 45.95 lakh
The Hyundai IONIQ 5 was launched on the 2023 Auto Expo because the Korean carmaker’s costliest mannequin in India. The flagship electrical crossover SUV comes with a 72.6 kWh battery pack with a rear-wheel-drive electrical motor setup that makes 217 PS and 350 Nm. The Hyundai IONIQ 5 will get an ARAI-claimed vary of 631 km and might be charged from 0-80 p.c in 21 minutes. Know extra about this retro-looking EV in its launch report.
Mahindra XUV400 EV
Price: Rs 15.99 lakh to Rs 19.39 lakh
Mahindra revealed the costs of the XUV400 initially of this 12 months to compete with the well-established Tata Nexon EV. The Mahindra electrical SUV comes with two battery pack choices: 34.5 kWh and 39.5 kWh and claims a driving vary of as much as 456 km. The EV is due for a beauty replace and its facelift is slated to launch subsequent 12 months. You can be taught extra in regards to the facelifted XUV400 here.
Citroen eC3
Price: Rs 11.61 lakh to Rs 12.79 lakh
The Citroen eC3 is one other reasonably priced EV within the Indian market and is the electrical model of the C3 hatchback. Citroen provides it with a 29.2 kWh battery pack with an electrical motor that churns out 57 PS and 143 Nm, and has an ARAI-claimed vary of 320 km. If you need to perceive the eC3 higher, then take a look at its first drive overview here.
MG Comet EV
Price: Rs 7.98 lakh to Rs 9.98 lakh
Earlier this 12 months, the MG Comet EV was launched as an entry-level electrical providing, besting the Tata Tiago EV to change into essentially the most reasonably priced EV in India. This sub-3-metre 2-door electrical automobile comes with a 17.3 kWh battery pack and claims a spread of 230 km. However, this mini EV doesn’t help quick charging and takes 7 hours to recharge utilizing a 3.3 kW charger. You can get extra particulars in regards to the Comet EV from its launch report.
The facelifted Audi Q8 e-tron was additionally launched this 12 months and it is available in two physique varieties: SUV and Sportback (coupe-SUV). Both these variations get two battery pack choices: 89 kWh and 114 kWh, each with dual-motor all-wheel drive setups. The Q8 e-tron has a WLTP-claimed vary of as much as 600 km and might be juiced up from 10-80 p.c in 31 minutes. You can learn extra in regards to the Audi Q8 e-tron in its launch report.
Volvo C40 Recharge
Price: Rs 62.95 crore
Volvo, in September, launched the C40 Recharge electrical SUV which relies on the XC40 Recharge. The coupe-styled electrical SUV packs a 78 kWh battery pack mated to a dual-motor all-wheel-drive setup making 408 PS and 660 Nm. The C40 Recharge can go from 0-100 kmph in 4.7 seconds and provides a WLTP-claimed vary of 530 km. Learn extra about its drive expertise from our first drive review.
Tata Nexon EV Facelift
Price: Rs 14.74 lakh to Rs 19.94 lakh
The Tata Nexon EV entered the market in 2020 and it helped within the begin of the EV revolution that we see at present. This 12 months, the electrical SUV obtained a a lot wanted facelift together with its ICE counterpart. The Nexon EV nonetheless comes with 2 battery pack choices: 30 kWh and 40.5 kWh, and delivers a claimed driving vary of as much as 465 km. You can be taught extra in regards to the Tata Nexon EV in our detailed first drive overview here.
Mercedes-Benz EQE SUV
Price: Rs 1.39 crore
Expanding its EV portfolio in India, Mercedes-Benz launched the EQE SUV in India this 12 months. The electrical SUV homes a 90.56 kWh battery pack with a dual-motor setup that churns out 408 PS and 858 Nm. It has a high velocity of 210 kmph and provides a WLTP-claimed vary of as much as 550 km. More details about its design and options is detailed in its launch report.
After a 12 months of its world debut, the BMW iX1 was launched in India this 12 months in October. The electrical SUV shares its platform with its ICE counterpart, the BMW X1, and comes with a 66.4 kWh battery pack. It will get an all-wheel-drive setup with twin electrical motors that churn out 313 PS and 494 Nm, and boasts a claimed vary of as much as 440 km. To know extra in regards to the BMW iX1, click here.
Lotus Eletre
Price: Rs 2.55 crore to Rs 2.99 crore
Lotus is the most recent automobile producer to enter the Indian market and the primary automobile it launched is the Lotus Eletre. This excessive efficiency electrical SUV comes with a 112 kWh battery pack and provides 2 powertrains, the outputs of which go as much as 918 PS and 985 Nm. The Eletre boasts a claimed driving vary of as much as 600 km and if you’d like extra particulars, you may take a look at its launch report here.
Rolls Royce Spectre
Price: If you need to ask…
This pure electrical luxurious mannequin from Rolls Royce hasn’t formally been launched in India, however just a few folks have managed to get their fingers on it through imports. The Rolls Royce Spectre homes a 700 kg battery pack prone to be of 100 kWh vitality capability, and an electrical motor that churns out 595 PS and 900 Nm. It has a WLTP-claimed driving vary of 520 km. More particulars of the electrical Rolls Royce might be discovered here.
In October 2023, there were a plethora of cars that went on sale ranging from the updated Tata Harrier and Safari to the Aston Martin DB12
The Indian festive season carries high expectations of increased sales for carmakers, and so many new cars are launched just before it. For October 2023, we saw the market introduction of numerous facelifts, new variants and special editions across various price segments. From the Tata Harrier and Safari facelifts to the BMW i7 M70i, here’s every new car launched ahead of the 2023 festive season.
Tata Harrier & Safari facelift – The 2023 facelifts for the Tata Harrier and Tata Safari SUVs get a host of updates including the new exterior design, interior updates and a lot more tech. The new Harrier starts from Rs 15.49 lakh, while the 7-seat Safari now starts from Rs 16.19 lakh. Some of the key new features on both include the bigger suite of ADAS, 7 airbags, paddle shifters, dual-zone climate control, a new steering wheel with an illuminated logo, a 10.25-inch digital instrument cluster and a 12.3-inch touchscreen infotainment system amongst others.
Citroen C3 Aircross – The Citroen C3 Aircross offers both 5 and 7-seat configurations, the only one in the compact SUV segment to do so. In the 7-seat variants, the 3rd now can be removed when not in use. Some of the features include a 10.2-inch infotainment, a digital instrument cluster, a roof-mounted blower, TPMS and Hill Hold. Prices for the car start from Rs 9.99 lakh.
Nissan Magnite AMT & Magnite Kuro Edition – The Nissan Magnite now gets an automatic option for the 1-litre N.A. engine as well. The AMT gets features like anti-stall and kick-down and a creep function amongst others. Thus, both the engines on offer now get an automatic option.
Meanwhile, the Kuro Edition gets an all-black exterior along with black front grille, skid plate, roof rails, door handles, alloy wheels. The car also gets red brake callipers. Meanwhile, the interiors get the same black treatment with a black roof liner, sun visors, door trims, gloss black inserts of the steering wheel, door handles and black AC vent surrounds.
Skoda Slavia Matte Edition – The special edition Skoda Slavia is available only in the top-spec variant. It gets a Carbon Steel matte colour, powered front seats and an illuminated footwell area. Powertrain options for the Skoda Slavia remain the same – the turbo-charged 1-litre and 1.5-litre turbo-petrolTSI motors with a choice of automatic or manual transmissions.
Kia Carens X-Line – The Kia Carens‘ X-Line variants comes with a Matte Graphite colour on the outside and gets a dual-tone Black and Splendid Sage Green interior. Now, the same has been introduced for the Kia Carens MPV as well, following the Sonet and Seltos SUVs. Other changes include all gloss black elements like the grille, black rear skid plate, roof rack and ORVMs. The MPV also gets 16-inch dual tone alloys and silver brake callipers. The Carens X-Line comes only with automatic options for the turbo-petrolPetrol (7DCT) and Ddiesel (6AT) units options.
Honda Amaze Elite & Honda City Elegant Editions – This limited edition of the Honda Amaze is based on the top-spec VX variant. The car also gets a rear spoiler with an LED stop light, TPMS, front fender garnish, a sliding front armrest and an ORVM anti-fog film. Honda is also offering illuminated sill plates, a tyre inflator and Elite Edition seat covers and badges on the Amaze. Customers can get both manual or CVT options to choose from.
Meanwhile, the limited-edition Honda City is based on the V-variant. It comes with a rear spoiler with an integrated LED stop light, front fender garnish, illuminated sill plates, a wireless charger and Elegant Edition seat covers and badges amongst others. Here too, buyers will be offered a choice of manual or CVT transmission options.
Volkswagen Virtus GT Plus Matte Edition – The recently introduced Matte Edition of the Volkswagen Virtus sedan is offered with a matte grey exterior. The outside details include red highlights, black alloy wheels and black ORVMs. Meanwhile, on the inside, the sedan comes with cherry red leatherette upholstery, aluminium pedals and red ambient lighting. A 1.5-litre turbo-petrol engine is offered with both manual and automatic options.
New launches in the Luxury segment
The German marquee has launched three models ahead of the 2023 festive season – BMW X4 M40i, BMW 7 Series 740d M Sport and the BMW i7 M70 xDrive. The X4 coupe SUV gets a 3.0-litre, 6-cylinder turbocharged petrol with 8-speed automatic and all-wheel drive. The 740d M Sport meanwhile gets a 3.0-litre 6-cylinder diesel engine with hybrid tech. The i7 M70 xDrive luxury EV sedan comes with a dual-motor setup generating 660PS and 1015 Nm. It gets a 101.7kWh battery pack with a claimed range of 560km.
The Mini Countryman got a new Shadow Edition during this past month.
The Audi S5 Sportback got a new Platinum Edition. Both of these offer cosmetic updates only with the existing powertrains. It arrives on the heels of the special edition Audi Q5.
Aston Martin
The iconic British performance marquee launched its latest grand tourer in India this past month. The Aston MartinDB12 arrived early in October for Rs 4.59 crore. It comes with a reworked 4.0-litre twin-turbo V8 engine, a 3.5 second 0-100 km/h time and a top speed well over 300 km/h.
Let us know which amongst the above cars would you pick if you were out to buy a new car.
General Motors is expanding its range of electric cars, including the affordable Chevrolet Equinox EV and the high-end Cadillac Celestiq super-sedan, both built on the modular Ultium platform. Now, they are introducing the 2025 Cadillac Escalade IQ, a massive all-electric SUV that will join its traditional gas-powered counterpart in the Cadillac lineup.
The Escalade is a crucial model in the Cadillac family, so the automaker has put all its efforts into developing the IQ electric version. According to General Motors, the Escalade IQ will have a range of 450 miles, thanks to its battery with a capacity of over 200 kilowatt-hours. This impressive SUV also features a wide infotainment screen spanning the entire dashboard, four-wheel steering, and a towing capacity of up to 8,000 pounds. Overall, it promises to be a luxurious and appealing electric SUV.
When it comes to trucks in America, Ram is one of the top brands along with Chevy, Ford, GMC, and Toyota. However, Ram has been struggling to compete with its competitors in recent times. In this article, we will explore the reasons behind Ram’s declining sales and how they can regain dominance in the market.
The Ram 1500 Vs. America’s Most Loved Pick-Up – The Ford F-150
One of the main factors contributing to Ram’s decline in sales is its competition with the Ford F-150. Let’s compare the Ram 1500 and the Ford F-150:
Ram trucks used to be sold under the Dodge nameplate. In 2009, Dodge and Ram split up, with Ram taking over the truck department. This separation allowed Ram to focus on trucks specifically and led to improvements in their products. Over time, Ram trucks gained popularity in the market.
The Ram Offered A Unique Approach To Pickups
Ram’s success can be attributed to the unique approach they took with their trucks. While other brands focused on making trucks more luxurious, Ram targeted a different audience. They appealed to people who preferred functionality and mechanical features over excessive luxury. This approach resonated with buyers and helped Ram become the second-best-selling truck in America.
Ram also offered better pricing compared to its competitors, allowing customers to get more features for less money. This combination of better features and affordability made Ram trucks highly desirable.
Sadly, Ram’s Market Strategy Didn’t Stick For Long
While Ram initially found success with its unique approach, they made some mistakes along the way that impacted their sales. One of the key issues is the low payload capacity of the Ram 1500 and 2500 due to the use of a coil-sprung rear end. This design sacrifices payload and towing abilities without a suitable helper system like airbags.
Another problem is the lack of powerful engines in the Ram trucks compared to competitors like Chevy and Ford. The heavy-duty drivetrains needed to support more powerful engines would further compromise the already limited payload capacity.
Lastly, Ram’s trucks are outdated and priced higher than competitors. This combination of outdated features and high prices has contributed to the decline in sales.
Despite the decline, Ram still has a strong reputation in the truck market, which presents an opportunity for them to bounce back. To regain dominance, Ram must address the issues mentioned above. They should introduce new models with improved payload capacity and updated features.
While the coil-sprung rear end can remain, the addition of load-bearing helper systems like airbags or hydraulic dampers will enhance the suspension and improve payload and towing capabilities. Interior updates and more advanced infotainment systems are also necessary to compete with the luxurious offerings from competitors.
Additionally, Ram should consider tapping into the compact and mid-size truck segments, which are growing in popularity. Offering options in these segments will attract customers looking for more affordable and manageable trucks. Rumors of a mid-size Ram Dakota revival and the introduction of the Rampage compact pickup in Brazil indicate that Ram is already heading in the right direction.
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