Munich / Hanover. The BMW Group showcased present fields of software for the Catena-X information ecosystem on the Hannover Messe on Wednesday. Working along with companions and suppliers, the corporate has modelled a whole information chain for the primary time utilizing real-world CO2 information from the manufacture of the long-lasting kidney grille on the BMW iX. The firm additionally demonstrated the advantages of data-driven high quality work.
“We – the BMW Group and our partners – will use the radical new collaboration approach embodied by Catena-X to improve our value creation processes within the context of sustainability, supply security and quality – and at the same time reduce costs,” introduced Oliver Ganser, Vice President Digitalisation of the Purchasing and Supplier Network on the BMW Group and Chairman of the Board of Catena-X e.V., on the Hannover Messe. “The more national and international companies come on board, the greater the added value for all concerned,” added Ganser.
Catena-X makes its debut in manufacturing. At BMW Group Plant Landshut, the corporate is piloting data-based vitality consumption measurement within the manufacture of an entire part for the primary time. “Together with our partners, we are using the Catena-X data ecosystem to calculate the product carbon footprint (PCF) of the kidney grille on the BMW iX,” defined Sabrina Schrangl, Project Lead Catena-X BMW Group Component Manufacturing. The iconic kidney grille on the BMW iX serves as an optimum software instance right here resulting from its complexity.
The PCF is calculated based mostly on the Catena-X rulebook and covers all “grade-to-gate” emissions generated throughout the product’s manufacture – beginning with the extraction of the uncooked supplies, by way of the emissions generated within the provide chain to the manufacturing processes on the manufacturing facility. Here, the companions use the Catena-X-certified CO2 software from Siemens AG, which permits information alternate (based mostly on the Catena-X calculation logic) and connectivity between Plant Landshut and high-performance plastics provider Covestro AG.
Looking additional forward, the intention might be to file all information till the top of the life cycle (cradle-to-grave) and so allow a round economic system throughout industries over the long run.
Catena-Xpermits improved high quality on the BMW Group by utilizing a data-driven as an alternative of hardware-based method. By introducing a shared “language” for all corporations within the automotive worth chain, the info ecosystem permits clean alternate of knowledge. Catena-X members can use this information of their high quality assurance processes to hold out an early-warning evaluation based mostly on subject information. At current, the BMW Group exchanges information with Robert Bosch GmbH on the particle sensor and steering gear, amongst different issues. In this fashion, patterns and anomalies will be recognized as much as 4 months earlier, usually earlier than an error or fault happens. In the long run, we are going to look to exchange various cooperation channels with Catena-X in an effort to allow fast, resource-efficient implementation within the space of high quality assurance.
The Global Pik Up is a pickup truck idea based mostly on the Mahindra Scorpio N that was showcased in 2023
The Mahindra Global Pik Up follows the identical design language because the Mahindra Scorpio N however goes overboard with the rugged design.
A production-spec model of the pick-up will seemingly be toned down when it comes to design.
Will seemingly use an up to date model of the two.2-litre diesel engine from the Scorpio N.
May be launched in India in 2026.
The Scorpio N-based Mahindra Global Pik Up made its world debut in August 2023 in South Africa, although solely as a kitted-out idea. Then, in November 2023, Mahindra additionally filed a design patent for the Scorpio N-based pickup. And now, Mahindra has trademarked a brand new nameplate in India: Scorpio X. While it’s not but confirmed which Mahindra mannequin will carry this identify, hypothesis suggests it might be the moniker for the production-ready model of the Mahindra Global Pik Up.
In addition to the Scorpio X, whose trademark standing reads as authorized, Mahindra had additionally utilized for a number of different identify logos across the identical time, together with:
Scorpio Okay
Scorpio L
Scorpio M
Scorpio Z
Mahindra utilized for all of those identify logos in May 2022, however they’re nonetheless pending approval.
Let’s take a quick have a look at what we all know concerning the Mahindra’s upcoming pickup truck up to now.
Scorpio N Inspired Design
The Mahindra Global Pik Up idea follows the identical design language because the Scorpio N, with the same fascia, together with the identical headlight design. However, the design of the LED DRLs and the entrance bumper have been revised. Additionally, it sports activities a snorkel mounted alongside the motive force’s aspect A-pillar. Even within the design patent filed by Mahindra, the Global Pik Up maintains the identical design language because the idea however a market-ready model will in fact be much less “extreme”. If you are to know extra concerning the new Mahindra pickup truck, you can visit this link.
Powertrain Options
If the Scorpio X does occur to be a Mahindra pickup for the general public, it should utilise the up to date model of the mHawk 2.2-litre diesel engine employed within the Scorpio N. The pickup truck will even be provided with four-wheel-drive (4WD) . For reference, the Scorpio N’s 2.2-litre diesel engine produces 175 PS and as much as 400 Nm in its larger state of tune, and is paired with both a 6-speed guide transmission or a 6-speed computerized transmission.
Expected Launch & Rivals
Though there isn’t any official affirmation of the Mahindra Scorpio X, the potential pick-up mannequin might arrive in India by 2026. Mahindra might value it from Rs 25 lakh (ex-showroom pan India). In India, it is going to be a substitute for the Isuzu V-Cross and Toyota Hilux.
The MetropolisEl, a unusual three-wheeled electrical car, showcased the potential of EVs and paved the best way for future improvements.
Despite its limitations, the MetropolisEl proved that electrical vehicles might be sensible and practical for day by day commutes and errands.
The MetropolisEl’s legacy lives on as an inspiration for continued innovation within the EV sector, reminding us that even small endeavors can have far-reaching impacts.
Before modern Teslas dominated the roads and electric vehicles (EVs) turned commonplace, a curious three-wheeled contraption named the MetropolisEl hummed by way of Copenhagen’s streets within the late Twentieth century. This unassuming electrical pioneer, largely forgotten at present, deserves recognition for its distinctive design, progressive spirit, and the story it tells concerning the nascent days of electrical mobility. The Seventies, marked by the oil disaster and rising environmental considerations, noticed EVs emerge as a promising various.
In Denmark, a nation known for its environmental consciousness and innovation, industrial designer, Steen Volmer Jensen, envisioned a small, environment friendly electrical car good for Copenhagen’s bustling streets. In 1974, Jensen’s imaginative and prescient materialized because the MetropolisEl. This quirky three-wheeler, sporting a fiberglass physique and an electrical motor, supplied a modest vary appropriate for metropolis commutes. Despite its unconventional seems, the MetropolisEl boasted benefits: its compact dimension conquered tight city areas, its electrical motor ensured zero emissions, and its low working prices have been enticing amidst rising gasoline costs.
However, the MetropolisEl confronted challenges. Limited battery vary and lengthy charging occasions, limitations of the period, hindered wider adoption. Its unconventional design and area of interest market positioning made it a tough promote for mainstream shoppers. Today, as electric vehicles experience a global resurgence, the MetropolisEl stands as a reminder of the early days of this technology and the unwavering spirit of innovation that drove its growth. While largely forgotten by the mainstream, its story presents precious insights and serves as a supply of inspiration because the world strikes in direction of a extra sustainable way forward for transport.
Delve into the components that led to the decline of electrical automobiles within the mid-Twentieth century and their eventual resurgence.
While not one of the MetropolisEl producers keep web sites, this text leverages varied archives and different publications such because the New York Times and the deRivaz & Ives journal to ship essentially the most up-to-date and correct data doable.
The CityEl’s journey began in 1987, a time when environmental consciousness was blossoming on the worldwide stage. In the center of Randers, Denmark, El Trans A/S, a neighborhood firm, sought to deal with these considerations with a novel resolution: a light-weight, electrical car designed for navigating cityscapes. They named their creation the Mini-El, a becoming moniker for its compact stature and pared-down design. This two-seater, three-wheeled marvel boasted a singular tilting roof for entry, providing a peek into what city transportation may maintain sooner or later.
However, the trail to widespread adoption proved removed from clean. El Trans A/S encountered monetary hurdles, resulting in a cessation of manufacturing in 1988. Despite this setback, the MetropolisEl’s progressive spirit persevered. Two firms, Eltrans89 A/S, and CityCom A/S, emerged in succession, every striving to revive the car with their very own modifications. Despite their efforts, business viability remained an elusive objective.
A extra sustainable and technology-driven future could be assured with electrical automobiles.
A New Lease On Life For The MetropolisEl
The MetropolisEl’s story took an surprising flip in 1995 when a German investor acquired the rights and relocated the corporate to Aub, Germany. This marked the start of a brand new chapter, characterised by a renewed deal with enhancing the car’s efficiency and marketability.
The new administration crew at Citycom Electromoblie Denmark A/S understood the need to deal with the restrictions that had hindered the MetropolisEl’s earlier success. They launched a sequence of updates geared toward making the car extra interesting to a wider vary of potential consumers.
Powering Up The MetropolisEl For Range And Efficiency
One of essentially the most vital developments was the introduction of the Fact4 mannequin. This version boasted a more powerful four kW electric motor, providing a significantly prolonged vary of as much as 90 kilometers. This addressed a serious concern for potential consumers – vary nervousness – because it made the MetropolisEl a extra sensible choice for day by day commutes.
Furthermore, the introduction of lithium-ion battery choices supplied a big enhance to the car’s efficiency and effectivity. These batteries supplied benefits comparable to lighter weight, sooner charging occasions, and longer lifespans in comparison with the lead-acid batteries utilized in earlier fashions.
MetropolisEl Powertrain Specs
Motor
Battery
Top Speed
Range
Consumption
Series 1
0.8 kW
3×80 Ah Lead Acid
40-55 km/h
37.8-43.50 miles (60-70 km)
7-9 kW·h/62.137 miles (100 km)
Series 2
2.5 kW
3×80 Ah Lead Acid
40-55 km/h
24.85-31.07 miles (40-50 km)
7-9 kW·h/62.137 miles (100 km)
Fact4 (Lead Acid)
4 kW
4x Lead Acid
63 km/h
43.50-55.92 miles (70-90 km)
3.5-5 kW·h/62.137 miles (100 km)
Fact4 (Lithium-ion)
4 kW
Lithium-Ion
63 km/h
>74.565 miles (120 km)
N/A
Upgraded MetropolisEl
4.5 kW
43V 100Ah Lithium-ion
50+ km/h
N/A
N/A
4.5 kW MetropolisEl
4.5 kW
48V 60-100 Ah Lithium Iron Phosphate
N/A
43.50-55.92 miles (70-90 km)
N/A
(Specs sourced from MetropolisEl Web Archive and New York Times Archive)
The German period of the MetropolisEl was marked by a strategic shift in focus. The new administration crew prioritized enhancements that immediately addressed the considerations and wishes of potential clients. By enhancing the car’s vary, efficiency, and effectivity, they sought to place the MetropolisEl as a extra viable and enticing choice within the rising electrical car market.
The market evolves daily, however there are some unimaginable EVs that arrived and set a benchmark for others to comply with.
A Quirky Charm That Endures
The CityEl’s unique design and driving experience have carved a niche amongst microcars, fascinating a devoted group of fans. Despite its unconventional look, characterised by the slanted roof and single headlight, the MetropolisEl’s allure lies in its performance. Its light-weight construct and agile dealing with make it adept at navigating tight metropolis streets, providing an alternative choice to conventional gasoline-powered automobiles.
Beyond its technical features, the MetropolisEl fosters a way of belonging amongst its homeowners. Online forums dedicated to the car buzz with activity, reflecting the sturdy following it has cultivated. Owners find joy in personalizing their CityEls, tailoring them to their particular person tastes and efficiency preferences, solidifying the automotive’s place as greater than only a technique of transportation however a canvas for self-expression.
These EVs pioneered market-altering cutting-edge technological developments and need to be classics with spots within the annals of EV historical past.
While commercially short-lived, the MetropolisEl’s contribution to the electrical car (EV) panorama transcends its gross sales figures. It stands as a notable pioneer, rising at a time when EVs have been a nascent expertise and the very idea of city electrical mobility was unfamiliar. Its significance lies not simply in its design and options, however within the broader affect it had on the trajectory of EV growth.
A Trailblazer In Uncharted Territory: The CityEl entered a virtually uncharted territory. Concerns about air high quality and fossil gasoline dependence have been simmering, however the EV business was in its early phases. The MetropolisEl dared to enterprise the place few had been, providing a glimpse into the probabilities of electrical vehicles tailor-made for city environments. Its compact dimension, maneuverability, and zero-emission operation made it a compelling proposition for navigating congested cityscapes.
Demonstrating The Potential Of EVs: Despite its limitations, the MetropolisEl efficiently showcased the potential of EVs. It proved that electric cars could be practical and functional, able to assembly the calls for of day by day commutes and errands. Its real-world use supplied precious insights into the efficiency, vary, and value of EVs, informing the event of future generations.
A Stepping Stone For Future Innovations: The MetropolisEl’s legacy extends past its quick existence. The classes realized from its design, engineering, and manufacturing have served as precious stepping stones for future EV developments. Its pioneering spirit and sensible strategy paved the best way for extra refined and commercially viable electrical automobiles that dominate the roads at present.
A Legacy Of Inspiration: The MetropolisEl’s story serves as an inspiration for continued innovation within the EV sector. It reminds the business that even seemingly small-scale endeavors can have far-reaching impacts. Its legacy lies not solely in its technical specs, but additionally in its contribution to the broader imaginative and prescient of sustainable transportation and a cleaner future.
These 10 EVs carry extraordinary tech and options to the auto business to enhance many electrical vehicles’ driving dynamics and qualities.
In conclusion, the MetropolisEl, although commercially short-lived, stands as a testomony to early electrical car innovation. From its humble beginnings in Denmark to its diversifications in Germany, it tackled uncharted territory, showcasing the potential of EVs at a time after they have been a novelty. Despite limitations, the MetropolisEl proved the viability of electrical vehicles for city commutes, offering precious insights that paved the best way for future developments.
According to the New York Times,over 5,500 MiniEls and CityEls were sold between 1989 and August 2007. Today, as electrical automobiles surge in reputation, the MetropolisEl’s legacy lives on, serving as an inspiration for continued innovation and a reminder that even seemingly small endeavors can contribute to a cleaner, extra sustainable future. Its quirky allure and enduring spirit proceed to captivate fans, solidifying its place as a pioneer within the electrical mobility revolution.
The Harrier EV has been showcased on the Bharat Mobility Expo 2024 and is because of launch later this 12 months
Tata introduced its daring goal for 10 EVs in its lineup by 2025 a couple of years in the past and has already previewed a slew of its upcoming electrical automobiles. For 2024 alone, we’re anticipating a complete of three new EVs from the Indian carmaker, one in every of which is the Tata Harrier EV. This electrical SUV’s idea was first revealed on the 2023 Auto Expo, and it has now been showcased once more on the 2024 Bharat Mobilily Expo, within the new Emerald Green hue. Check out the mid-size electrical SUV idea in these 5 detailed photographs.
Front
Tata has not made any adjustments to the design of the Harrier EV idea since its debut. Up entrance, you possibly can see the related LED DRLs, which can be being supplied on the ICE (inside combustion engine) model of the facelifted Harrier. The EV will get a closed-off grille with horizontal slats. The vertically positioned LED headlights are tucked deep inot the corners of the chunky bumper. At the very backside, the SUV will get a smooth skid plate design, above that are vertical design components for the air dam. You also can spot the ADAS radar housed between them.
Side
The profile resembles the ICE model in each manner, differentiated solely by the “.ev” badging on the entrance fenders. The SUV is completed in a dual-tone paint which will get gloss black end on the roof and pillars. It will get slim cladding across the wheel archers and thick cladding underneath the doorways for a barely extra rugged look.
The one huge distinction from the ICE Harrier is the design of the dual-tone alloy wheels. In the electrical model, the design appears extra aerodynamic with the textured plastic inserts.
Rear
At the again, you possibly can spot the related LED tail lights, and in addition the Z-shaped wraparound mild components on both facet. The SUV will get a roof-integrated rear spoiler, which can be completed in gloss black.
The backside a part of the rear profile will get an enormous bumper which homes a skid plate with vertical design components.
The Tata Harrier EV is anticipated to be launched later this 12 months and it may be priced from Rs 30 lakh (ex-showroom). It will probably be primarily based on the just lately revealed Tata Acti.EV platform and supply a claimed vary of over 500 km, and get the selection of a dual-motor all-wheel-drive setup. The electrical SUV will probably be a direct rival to the upcoming Mahindra XUV.e8, and also will act as a premium and spacious various to the Hyundai Kona Electric and MG ZS EV.
Back at EICMA 2023, a number of producers showcased their electrical two-wheelers, within the hopes of getting extra riders to make the shift. While electrical scooters and commuters are plentiful, we’re seeing increasingly enthusiast-focused machines hit the market. Niu, for instance, showcased its first electrical dual-sport referred to as the XQi3, and now, it’s set to be made out there in Europe from the spring of 2024.
Niu can be providing the XQi3 in two variants – an off-road-only mannequin referred to as the Wild, and a street-legal model referred to as the Street. The latter can be labeled as a moped, so relying on the place in Europe you’re from, you’ll both want no less than a automobile license or an A1 license to experience it round.
On the efficiency finish of issues, the XQi3 is powered by a mid-drive motor, as all electrical dirtbikes ought to. A series final-drive sends energy to the rear wheel, with Niu claiming eight kilowatts, or about 10.7 horsepower. The Street mannequin is proscribed to a high velocity of 45 kilometers per hour (28 miles per hour), whereas the Wild model will get an Ultra-Boost characteristic that unlocks a high velocity of 75 kilometers per hour (46.6 miles per hour).
The motor is housed on the backside of the aluminum body, promising a low middle of gravity for simple maneuverability. As for the battery, the bike’s rocking an detachable LG 72-volt, 32-amp-hour unit with round 80 to 90 kilometers (49 to 55 miles) of vary on a single cost.
Performance apart, the Niu XQi3 is underpinned by light-weight parts that blur the road between e-moto and e-MTB. For starters, the bike will get long-travel suspension with preload and rebound adjustability. It rolls on 19-inch spoked wheels shod in knobby tires, and involves a cease with entrance and rear disc brakes measuring 220 mm and 203 mm on the entrance and rear respectively.
As is the case with most of Niu’s choices, the XQi3 packs quite a lot of useful tech. It comes commonplace with full-LED lighting, a TFT show with smartphone connectivity and NFC unlocking, and even a useful USB-C charger. There’s even GPS navigation so that you can simply discover your approach arond city, or make it to the closest exit when exploring trails. To high all of it off, the Street model provides flip indicators, rear-view mirrors, and a license plate holder for good measure.
As talked about earlier, the Niu XQi3 can be making its solution to Europe within the spring of 2024. Its retail worth, as introduced throughout its launch at EICMA 2023, is about at 5,999 euros, or about $6,574 USD. It’ll be bought in quite a lot of colours and graphics permitting riders to discover a design that fits their fashion.
The eVX, when showcased on the Auto Expo 2023, was initially slated to reach by 2025
It will probably be Maruti’s first EV in India.
Multiple spy photographs of the Maruti eVX have already surfaced on-line.
Expected to have a 60 kWh battery pack with a variety of 550 km.
Dual-motor setup with AWD confirmed.
To get a 3-piece LED lighting setup on the entrance and rear, and chunky wheel arches.
Inside, it’ll doubtless get an built-in show setup and a powered driver seat.
Prices might begin from Rs 22 lakh (ex-showroom).
The reasonably priced electrical automotive area in India, presently dominated by Tata, has been ready for the trade chief, Maruti Suzuki, to hitch the competitors. We obtained our first have a look at Maruti’s first EV for India at Auto Expo 2023 within the type of the eVX idea. Originally slated to reach by 2025, we now have a number of causes to imagine it’ll arrive in 2024 itself.
Why the sooner Launch?
The check mules of the Maruti eVX electrical SUV have been spied testing in India and though they’re closely camouflaged, they don’t look like too removed from being production-ready. Another motive why we expect it will likely be launched sooner is as a result of new Maruti automobiles are often recognized for happening sale in a yr’s time as soon as their testing begins. Maruti has been reported confirming that the eVX will probably be manufactured at its new plant in Gujarat with the launch in fiscal yr 2024-25.
Secondly, Suzuki unveiled a extra advanced model of the eVX SUV idea in Japan with extra real looking design particulars for the outside.
Thirdly, Toyota has recently debuted the new Urban SUV electric concept which bears styling cues fairly much like the Suzuki eVX (because it’s additionally based mostly on the Suzuki EV), particularly the facet profile and rear. That idea has been confirmed to make its world launch within the first half of 2024. We suspect it’s one other shared mannequin as a part of the continued world partnership between Suzuki and Toyota.
Given that the eVX made its world debut in India firstly of 2023, it’s almost certainly that the Maruti electrical SUV may also go on sale right here earlier than the Toyota model hits any market.
What we all know to date
The technical specs of the Maruti eVX are nonetheless restricted. At its debut in idea type, it was revealed that the electrical compact SUV will pack a 60 kWh battery pack good for a claimed vary of 550 km. There has been no phrase on the efficiency that will probably be on supply however the eVX will get a dual-motor possibility as nicely for an all-wheel-drive setup. That stated, it will not be the one powertrain possibility as Toyota’s model will get the selection of each front-wheel drive and all-wheel drive with a number of battery sizes.
How will it look in and out?
In phrases of design, let’s speak concerning the newer Suzuki eVX exterior and inside. On the skin, it’ll have glossy LED headlights and DRLs designed in a triangular vogue, and chunky bumpers. Other exterior design parts will embrace flared wheel arches, flush door handles, and a related LED tail lamp setup.
The cabin of the eVX had a minimalist attraction, with highlights being an built-in show setup, a yoke-style steering wheel, lengthy vertical AC vents, and a rotary knob within the centre console for gear choice.
Apart from the twin show setup and the yoke-like steering wheel, the eVX can be anticipated to return with a 360-degree digital camera, powered driver’s seat, and auto local weather management. Its security package might comprise as much as six airbags, digital stability programme (ESP), and ISOFIX baby seat mounts. We additionally hope the eVX comes with ADAS options for safer freeway driving.
The muscular design of the concept that was showcased this year is nowhere to be seen on the test mule
A new pickup based on the Mahindra Scorpio N has been spied testing under camouflage.
The rear profile has been spotted in detail and it misses out on the rugged design elements of the Global Pik Up concept.
Cabin will be similar to the Scorpio N and it could get a bigger touchscreen infotainment system.
Will be powered by an updated version of the Scorpio N’s 2.2-litre diesel engine.
Expected to be priced from Rs 25 lakh (ex-showroom) onwards.
Mahindra showcased the Scorpio N-based pickup truck concept alongside the electric Thar earlier this year by the name of Mahindra Global Pikup, and it had a bulky and muscular design language. Recently, a new Mahindra pickup made its spy debut when a video surfaced online which captured it from the rear. However, the design of the camouflaged test mule is a lot different from that of the concept, and you can check that out here.
No Muscle
In the spy video, the rear profile of the new Mahindra pickup is seen in detail and you can see that the rugged and muscular elements of the Global Pik Up concept are not present here. It has a flat rear profile with a handle in the middle, the big Mahindra logo is nowhere to be seen and the tail lamps are also different compared to what we saw on the concept.
Also, the concept had a massive rear bumper and skid plate, which are also not present on the test mule. On the profile, the test mule has the same alloys as the Scorpio N, but the globally unveiled concept had a different set of alloys with off-road tyres.
The pickup has a similar silhouette as the Scorpio N, but the design changes on the concept that made a clear distinction between the two – like the side step, roof rack and big wheel arches – are not seen on the test mule.
These overly simplified design details could also be part of the camouflage to hide the true design being developed for the Mahindra pickup which is not expected to enter the Indian market anytime soon.
Cabin & Features
Only a glimpse of the cabin of the test mule was seen in the spy video. However, since the interiors of the Global Pik Up were revealed at the time of unveiling, we can expect the cabin to look a lot similar to that of the Scorpio N. We expect it to have a black and brown cabin theme, a multi-level dashboard, and chrome elements all around.
The new Mahindra pickup could be equipped with an 8-inch touchscreen infotainment system, connected car tech, a semi-digital instrument cluster, automatic climate control, multiple airbags, and advanced driver assistance system (ADAS) features, including driver drowsiness detection.
Powertrain Options
The Mahindra Global Pikup will use an updated version of Scorpio N’s 2.2-litre diesel engine (up to 175 PS and 400 Nm) and will come with a 6-speed manual and a 6-speed automatic transmission. The pickup truck will also feature a 4-wheel-drive setup with multiple drive modes.
Launch, Price & Rivals
Mahindra has not revealed any launch timelines for the Global Pikup, but it will be considered for launch in India and we expect it to enter the market by 2026. It could be priced from Rs 25 lakh (ex-showroom) onwards and will be a rival to the Isuzu V-Cross, while being an affordable alternative to the Toyota Hilux.
The Harrier EV was showcased at the 2023 Auto Expo, and Tata confirmed the Harrier Petrol after the launch of the facelifted Harrier
The facelifted Tata Harrier has been recently launched with a new design, more features, and a 5-star Global NCAP safety rating. However, Tata has confirmed that it will introduce two powertrain options for the mid-size SUV: the Harrier EV and Harrier Petrol. Both models are set to arrive next year, with the Harrier EV already showcased at the Auto Expo as a near-production-ready model. The Harrier petrol was confirmed during the launch of the facelifted Harrier.
Here’s what we know about both these versions so far.
Tata Harrier EV
The Tata Harrier EV made its debut at the Auto Expo 2023 as a near-production-ready model. Its design provided a glimpse of the updated Harrier but with EV-specific design elements. While details about its battery pack are not yet revealed, it is known that the Harrier EV is based on the Land Rover-derived OMEGA-Arc platform. It will feature all-wheel drive (AWD) with a dual-motor setup and is expected to have a claimed range of about 500km.
Its only competitor in 2024 is expected to be the electric-version of the Mahindra XUV700, known as the XUV E8.
Tata Harrier Petrol
At the same Auto Expo, Tata showcased its new 1.5-litre TGDi petrol engine, which is still under development. This engine is rated at a performance of 170PS and 280Nm. Officials from Tata confirmed that the Harrier petrol is in the works and will be equipped with this turbo-petrol engine in about a year. The first vehicle to feature Tata’s new line of turbo-petrol engines will be the Tata Curvv, which is also scheduled to arrive next year. After that, the 1.5-litre turbo unit will be added to the updated Harrier and Safari.
Meanwhile, rivals like the Mahindra XUV700 and MG Hector have been offering a turbo-petrol engine option since launch.
Launch Timelines
The Tata Harrier EV is expected to arrive in 2024 with an expected starting price of Rs 30 lakh (ex-showroom). The launch of the Tata Harrier petrol will depend on the launch of the Tata Curvv, which is expected to arrive by April 2024.
Kia’s upcoming electric sedan and compact SUV showcased as concepts
The EV5 was unveiled this year in August.
It takes design inspiration from the EV9 SUV.
Gets two battery pack options with three different powertrains.
Features dual-integrated 12.3-inch displays, vehicle-2-load and ADAS technology.
EV5 can be launched in India by 2025 at an expected price of Rs 55 lakh (ex-showroom).
On the occasion of Kia’s EV Day in Korea, the carmaker has revealed the specifications of the EV5 mid-size electric SUV, which made its global debut this year in August. Along with the details of the EV5, Kia has also unveiled two concept EVs: EV3 compact SUV and EV4 sedan, both of which will be launched in the coming years. But before we get to know these concepts, let’s see what the EV5 has to offer:
Multiple Powertrain Options
Parameters
Standard
Long Range
Long Range AWD
Battery Pack
64kWh
88kWh
88kWh
Power
217PS
217PS
217PS (front), 95PS (rear)
Range (estimated)
530km
720km
650km
Kia offers the EV5 with two battery packs and three powertrain options: Standard, Long Range and Long Range AWD. The Standard version gets a 64kWh battery pack with a 217PS electric motor and an expected range of 530km. The Long Range version has an 88kWh battery pack with the same 217PS electric motor and a range of 720km. Lastly, the Long Range AWD packs the same 88kWh battery pack with a dual-motor setup (217PS front and 95PS rear) and Kia has estimated a driving range of 650km. The EV5 can be charged from 30 to 100 percent in 27 minutes with a superfast DC charger.
Modern List Of Features
Kia has equipped the electric SUV with a dual-integrated 12.3-inch display setup (touchscreen information and digital driver’s display). It also gets a 5-inch climate control panel, three-zone climate control, heated and ventilated front seats, vehicle-to-load (V2L) and vehicle-to-grid (V2G).
In terms of safety, it has seven airbags and a suite of ADAS (advanced driver assistance system) features including lane keep assist, lane departure warning, parking assist, adaptive cruise control and auto emergency braking.
Now let’s have a look at the concepts that were revealed.
Kia EV4
This futuristic-looking EV looks minimalistic and similar to the Kia EV6 from the front. It has a sleek grille and Kia’s tiger nose headlight setup. It gets a flat profile with sharp lines, an extended rear end and triangular alloy wheels which look like something from a sci-fi movie. The rear profile carries the same minimalist look with its straight lines and a flat body.
Inside, it has a simple cabin and you can easily tell that it is a concept. The cabin gets bright colours, a rectangular steering wheel and a dual-integrated display setup. To make it even more minimalist, Kia has put plain white seats with a flat centre console in the middle.
Kia EV3
The EV3 carries the same design language as the EV4. The minimalism can be seen in the electric SUV’s overall design. Its front profile has the same design elements as the EV4 but looks more upright. The profile has wheel arches, door cladding and stylish alloy wheels. At the rear, the EV3 has a flat body, large headlamp setups and a massive skid plate.
The cabin is similar to the EV4 as well. It gets the same dashboard, steering wheel and display setup, but the centre console gets a layered design and the cabin has a grey and green colour scheme.
The battery pack and motor details of these concepts are not out but Kia could reveal their specifications once these EVs are production-ready.
Launch Timelines
The EV5 will be launched this year in the international market and should make it to Indian shores by 2025. The EV3 and EV4 will enter the market from 2024 onwards and if Kia plans to launch them in India, they can enter our market by 2026.
The Thar EV concept was showcased in its 5-door persona
The Thar EV will be based on the INGLO architecture.
While it is still in its concept stage, the production-ready model will have design changes.
There might also be a three-door version available.
It is expected to launch in the Indian market by 2026.
At its Futurescape event in South Africa for Independence Day 2023, Mahindra unveiled the Vision Thar.e concept. The electric Thar is a 5-door model that looks significantly different from its 3-door internal combustion engine (ICE) counterpart. If you haven’t had a chance to see this electric off-roader, you can take a look at it in this detailed gallery.
Front
The front of the Thar EV has an upright stance with a wide profile and angled sections. It features a large bumper with a blacked-out skid plate that displays Mahindra’s new EV logo and a tow hook.
In the center, there is a gloss black element that houses the backlit “Thar.e” logo, three LED lights, and square-shaped DRLs around the headlamps.
Side
The side profile of the Thar EV showcases its elongated design with sharp geometrical cuts and a high ground clearance. The A-pillar is blacked-out and features the “Thar.e” logo.
The black strip on the side also holds the mounts for the rearview cameras, replacing the traditional ORVMs.
The front door is flat with a downwards kink at the front end and a vertical door handle. The rear door design bulges out to match the rear track width, with a door handle mounted on the C-pillar.
The wheel arches feature sharp cuts, and the dual-tone black and gray alloy wheels are wrapped in all-terrain tires.
At the rear, there is a three-quarter glass that merges into a mesh-like element.
Rear
The top half of the rear is dominated by a large rear windscreen with LED lights on both ends. Below that is the rear-mounted spare wheel and the same bumper and skid plate setup as the front.
Similar to the front, the rear profile also features square-shaped light elements around the tail lamps.
Roof
Although this concept does not have a sunroof, it does have a semi-glass roof with glass panels on top divided in the middle by a thick black strip.
Cabin
Inside the electric Thar, the dashboard features a layered design with gray and bronze colors. There are bronze slits spanning the width of the dashboard.
Beneath the layered design, there is a large floating touchscreen display, and below that are the buttons for the climate control.
The Thar EV is equipped with a square-shaped steering wheel featuring the Thar.e logo and backlit buttons on the sides. Behind the steering wheel, there is a floating digital driver’s display.
The front part of the cabin is divided by a long center console, which houses a cockpit-styled gear lever, controls for drive modes, and a wide center armrest.
At the rear, there is a green bench seat with square design elements, and the headrests are mounted on the roof.
A production-ready version of the Thar EV is expected to be unveiled by 2026, with a launch following shortly after. It is anticipated to have an ex-showroom price tag of Rs 25 lakh for its AWD electric powertrain and an expected range of 400km.
