Tag: electric

  • Top EVs to Buy in India

    As the Indian automotive industry continues to evolve and shift towards sustainable mobility, the demand for electric vehicles (EVs) is rising exponentially. New generation EVs are more dependable and appealing owing to the upgrades in batteries, inclusion of modern tech and advanced safety features which are adding significant values to the new EVs of 2024.

    Here is the list of the top electric vehicles including the best SUVs, sedans, and hatchbacks that you can purchase in 2024.

    Best EVs for 2024: Top electric vehicles in India

    1. Tata Nexon EV

    Driving Range: 450 kilometres

    Starting Price: 14.5 lakhs (ex-showroom)

    The Tata Nexon EV is among the top-rated electric cars in 2024. It is the best-selling EV in India, and also one of the most efficient cars in 2024. This compact SUV is easy to drive both in the city and on highways, thanks to its 40.5 kWh battery. It takes under 60 minutes to charge up to 80% with the fast charger. The highlight of this car includes keyless entry, a sunroof, infotainment system with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.

    2. Tata Tigor EV

    Driving Range: 315 kilometres

    Starting Price: Rs 12.5 lakh (ex-showroom)

    This is another great value-for-money option from Tata Motors in the compact sedan EV segment. The Tigor EV offers impressive driving range, comfort and practicality. It also features different driving modes and an enjoyable driving experience. The battery can be charged up to 80% in just 60 minutes using a DC fast charger which is among the fastest. Priced under Rs 15 lakhs, the Tigor EV is also one of the best budget electric cars of 2024.

    3. Mahindra XUV400 Electric

    Driving Range: 350-450 kilometres

    Starting Price: Rs 15.49 lakh (ex-showroom)

    This is the first electric car from Mahindra in the compact SUV segment. Loaded with modern tech features, the XUV400 comes with a sunroof, a premium interior, and six airbags. The motor is powered by a 39.4 kWh battery and comes with fast charging capabilities which takes about 50 minutes to charge up to 80%. The XUV400 offers great performance and is among the best EVs of 2024.

    4. MG ZS EV

    Driving Range: 460 kilometres

    Price: Rs 18.98 lakh (ex-showroom)

    This is the flagship electric vehicle from MG Motors. The new ZS EV is one of the top-rated electric cars of 2024 as it is equipped with features such as spacious interior, long driving range, and advanced safety features like ADAS, blind spot monitoring, and airbags. The ZS EV also features a panoramic sunroof, large boot space, a 10.1-inch infotainment system, and a 360-degree camera. The ZS EV now has an updated 50.3 kWh battery which prolongs its driving range to 460 km.

    5. Tata Tiago EV

    Driving Range: 315 kilometres

    Starting Price: 10.19 lakhs (ex-showroom)

    The Tata Tiago EV is among the best electric hatchbacks of 2024. The motor is powered by a 26 kWh battery that offers a range of about 315 km on a single charge and it is also equipped with fast charging capability. It will take an hour to charge from 0 to 80% using the standard 15-amp socket. The key features of this car include driving modes, Harman music system, front airbags and more.

    Best Electric SUVs of 2024: Luxury with Performance

    1. Audi e-tron

    Driving Range: 500 kilometres

    Starting Price: 10.19 crores (ex-showroom)

    The unique blend of luxury and performance makes the Audi e-tron one of the best luxury electric cars of 2024. A single charge can propel this electric SUV up to 500 km. The e-tron comes with a 93 kWh battery which can charge from 0-80% in 23 minutes with the fast charger. The highlights of this car include a panoramic sunroof and a virtual cockpit. The e-Tron is both luxurious and environmentally friendly.

    2. BMW i4

    Driving Range: 590 kilometres

    Starting Price: Rs. 69.90 lakhs (ex-showroom)

    The BMW i4 is among the best electric luxury sedans to buy in 2024. The i4 can charge from 10% to 80% in 35 minutes because of its fast charging capabilities. It accelerates from 0 to 62 mph in under 4 seconds and offers a top speed of 200 kmph.

    The i4 offers a long driving range and a luxurious, driver-centric interior which makes it one of the best looking and most efficient electric cars of 2024.

    Best Electric Cars of 2024: EVs with the longest range

    1. Hyundai Ioniq 5

    Driving Range: 631 kilometres

    Starting Price: 16.49 lakhs (ex-showroom)

    The Hyundai Ioniq is among the most efficient long-range electric vehicles in India, boasting an astounding 631 km of range on a single charge. It is an all-electric SUV that is both dependable and efficient. The battery is 350kW which can be charged from 10% to 80% in just 18 minutes using a fast charger, which is another great proposition at this price point.

    2. Mercedes-Benz EQS

    Driving Range: 857 kilometres

    Starting Price: Rs. 1.04 crores (ex-showroom)

    The Mercedes-Benz EQS is one of the best-performance electric cars in India with the longest driving range in 2024. This is a high-end electric SUV that offers a range of 857 km on a single charge. It has a 107.8 kWh battery and a fast charger that can charge 0-80% in 30 minutes. The highlights include a panoramic sunroof, a Burmester sound system, an innovative MBUX infotainment system and many more.

    The bottom-line

    The electric vehicle market in India will continue to soar in the upcoming years. More than a dozen new electric cars are expected to hit the market by the end of 2024. The top 2024 electric car reviews suggest that Maruti, Tata, Kia, BMW and several other carmakers are looking to launch several new electric cars between 2024-25.

  • PCL and EMOSS India partner with Bluwheelz to retrofit Tata Ace LCVs • EVreporter

    Maharashtra-based Precision Camshafts Limited (PCL) and its electrification division, EMOSS India, have partnered with Bluwheelz, an EV logistics company, to retrofit Tata Ace Light Commercial Vehicles (LCVs).

    The collaboration between PCL and Bluwheelz aims to offer multiple benefits through the retrofitting of Tata Ace LCVs:

    • Lower Operating Costs: Electrifying the vehicles will reduce fuel and maintenance expenses, leading to savings for operators and drivers.
    • Modularity and Versatility: The retrofitted vehicles will be available in three variants, with ranges of 75 km, 120 km, and 250 km on a single charge, catering to various operational needs. The conversion promises a payback period of two years.
    • Reduced Emissions: Electric vehicles produce zero tailpipe emissions.
    • Enhanced Efficiency: Electric drivetrains provide better energy efficiency.

    Key Highlights of the Partnership:

    • Franchise Model for Fleet Operators: Bluwheelz’s franchise model allows fleet operators to electrify their fleets, supported by a business guarantee from Bluwheelz.
    • Driver-Cum-Owner Model: Individual driver owners can electrify their vehicles, serving Bluwheelz’s clients and expanding their business opportunities.
    • Expanding Reach: The partnership aims to target the PAN India retrofit market, starting with the North Indian belt and focusing on the B2C market to bring sustainable logistics solutions to a broader audience.
    • Stakeholder Participation: The announcement event saw the presence of nearly 25 potential customers, indicating interest and support for this initiative.

    The partnership between PCL, EMOSS India, and Bluwheelz aims to drive innovation and electrification in the logistics industry.

    Also read: Revfin, Bluwheelz and Kalyani Powertrain collaborate to retrofit N3 trucks for logistics

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  • Bacancy Systems gets CE certification for CCS2 charger controller • EVreporter

    Gujarat-based Bacancy Systems has received CE certification for its CCS2 Charger Controller, enabling its entry into the European market. The certification confirms the product’s compliance with European safety, health, and environmental standards, allowing Bacancy Systems to expand its presence in Europe’s electric vehicle market.

    “We are thrilled to achieve CE certification for our CCS2 Charger Controller,” said Krunal Patel, Co-founder of Bacancy Systems LLP. “This certification validates our commitment to quality and safety and positions us to better serve our European customers with innovative and reliable EV charging solutions.”

    The CCS2 Charger Controller is designed for modern EV charging infrastructure, featuring dynamic load management, secure commissioning, and a configurable stack for compatibility with various peripherals. With CE certification, Bacancy Systems plans to expand into Europe, starting with Turkey and Portugal. This move aims to provide customizable EV charging solutions to a broader European audience, supported by Bacancy’s customer service and technical support.

    “Europe represents a significant market for our products,” added Hardik Sheth, Co-founder. “Our expansion will drive our growth and contribute to the advancement of sustainable transportation solutions in the region.”

    Also read: Bacancy to manufacture 20,000 power module units annually for DC chargers

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  • Ather partners Amara Raja for advanced battery tech

    Hyderabad: Amara Raja Advanced Cell Technologies, a wholly owned subsidiary of Amara Raja Energy & Mobility (ARE&M), one of India’s leading battery manufacturers, has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Ather Energy. As part of this agreement, Amara Raja will collaborate with Ather to develop and supply NMC (Nickel Manganese Cobalt) and LFP (Lithium Iron Phosphate) Lithium-Ion (Li-ion) and other advanced chemical cells, produced locally at their upcoming Gigafactory in Divitipally, Telangana, according to a media release.

    It may be recalled that Amara Raja recently entered into an agreement with Gotion-InoBat-Batteries (GIB) that will facilitate it to localise current global LFP technology for making Lithium-Ion cells specifically suited for Indian conditions. The company also has an agreement with Jiangsu Highstar Battery Manufacturing Co. for NMC technology.

    With India focused on clean and green energy, the automotive industry is witnessing a big transition towards electric vehicles (EVs), particularly in the two-wheeler segment. Industry projections point towards EV 2W penetration to reach 40 per cent by 2030. Both Amara Raja and Ather have chartered out ambitious plans to tap into this growing market potential. Ather Energy has two manufacturing facilities in Hosur, Tamil Nadu, with one dedicated to battery production and the other to vehicle assembly.

  • BMW Motorrad India unveils new model

    Hyderabad: BMW Motorrad India has announced the launch of the new style ‘Passion’ for the BMW G 310 RR. This new style features an attractive Racing Blue Metallic paintwork, giving the motorcycle a particularly feisty look. The motorcycle is also available in style ‘Sport’ which is on offer currently.

    The BMW G 310 RR in style ‘Passion’ can be booked across all BMW Motorrad dealerships with immediate effect.

    The new model is a true road racing sports bike. Its performance, agility, precision and raring-to-go flair reveals racing attitude. The bike is the sportiest and most desirable sports bike in the sub-500 class. The motorcycle clearly showcases its S 1000 RR heritage. It proudly inherits the original road racing genes that have fascinated sports bike enthusiasts with unlimited adrenaline rush on tarmac. With the combination of a stunning superbike design and modern technology, it is the ultimate riding machine – your best companion on racetracks and city roads alike.

  • Nissan X-Trail, made in Japan, launched in India at Rs 49.92 lakh

    Hyderabad: Nissan Motor India (NMIPL) has announced the pricing for the ‘Made in Japan’ All-New 4th Generation X-Trail in India, available at an introductory price of Rs 49.92 lakh (ex-showroom, Delhi). Powered with Variable Compression Turbo technology, the X-Trail is designed and delivered for automotive aficionados and customers seeking a harmonious blend of versatility, reliability, and practicality, according to a media release.

    The bookings for X-Trail model have been opened since July 26, with an advance deposit of Rs1,00,000, inviting customers to embark on a journey with a vehicle that epitomises X-Trail’s two-decade-strong legacy of excellence. The 4th-Generation X-Trail is engineered to offer a premium driving experience with exceptional ride and handling, perfectly balancing refined interiors with versatile capabilities for everyday use and exploratory ventures. The X-Trail will be offered in India with 3 years/100,000 kms warranty along with 3 years of free roadside assistance. PMP will also be available on the product for 2-5 years.

    The All-New Nissan X-Trail features the world’s first production variable compression engine, delivering exceptional power and fuel efficiency. The SUV is equipped with the latest 3rd generation Xtronic CVT, which includes D-Step logic control and paddle shifters for seamless shifting and enhanced acceleration. Additionally, the 12V ALiS (Advanced Lithium-ion battery System) mild hybrid technology offers significant improvement in fuel economy with benefits such as torque assist, extended idle stop, quick restart and reduced CO2 emissions. The X-Trail currently remains the only Japanese CBU SUV in India in its segment.

    Frank Torres, President, Nissan India Operations said, “The new Nissan X-Trail has arrived in India with the world’s first Nissan patented Variable Compression Turbo Engine, offering sophistication, versatility, and a premium driving experience. Ranked among the top 5 best-selling SUVs globally in 2023, the X-Trail exemplifies Nissan’s dedication to delivering advanced automotive excellence to our customers in India. We realised that our Indian customers aspired and demanded globally acclaimed SUV product offerings, so with this All-New 4th Generation X-Trail, we have announced the relaunch of our CBU business. It is the first of many products that we have planned for India in the coming years for our discerning customers who value premium design, spaciousness, comfort, and cutting-edge technology.”

    Saurabh Vatsa, Managing Director, Nissan Motor India said, “The introduction of the All-New 4th Generation X-Trail is a significant move for us, marking not only the relaunch of our CBU business but also the beginning of our product offensive in India. The idea is to focus on bringing in the best Nissan SUVs from our global portfolio with the finest Japanese motoring DNA, craftsmanship and best of Nissan’s global technology. We are delighted with the response we have received for the relaunch of the CBU business, and the pre-bookings received. We are ready for X-Trail deliveries starting in August.”

    Globally, the Nissan X-Trail has been a top performer, ranking among the top 5 best-selling SUVs in 2023, with over 4,50,000 units sold. It is currently available in over 150 markets and has achieved a remarkable milestone with over 7.8 million X-Trails sold worldwide since its inception. The X-Trail lineup offers three distinct variants: the traditional Internal Combustion Engine (ICE), the ICE Mild Hybrid, and the cutting-edge E Power model.

  • BLACKBUCK EV starts development of ELON 3X sleeper bus • EVreporter

    BLACKBUCK EV has unveiled the design of its upcoming ELON 3X sleeper bus. The first ELON 3X seater bus, a 13.5-meter vehicle, is currently undergoing internal road testing to ensure performance and durability. Preliminary results are positive, and testing will continue for comprehensive validation.

    The development of the ELON 3X sleeper model addresses the demand for enhanced comfort during long-distance travel. The sleeper buses feature increased headroom, beds measuring 1.8 meters in length, 36 beds, and 8 cubic meters of luggage space. These buses will be available in 300km and 400km ranges per charge, catering to specific route requirements. The interior includes materials, finishes, ergonomic design elements, and amenities tailored for a comfortable journey, added the company statement.

    Blackbuck EV focuses on the benefits of a multi-axle (3-axle) configuration for long journeys. This configuration enhances stability and ride smoothness by distributing weight evenly across the vehicle.

    Blackbuck EV has initiated pre-order bookings, securing MOUs with multiple customers in India and one internationally, totaling 350 buses, including both seater and sleeper models. Discussions with potential customers are ongoing, with further bookings anticipated by year-end. The goal is to secure pre-orders for 1,000 buses, with plans to produce and deliver them within four years of starting production. Pre-order customers who sign MOUs will have prioritized deliveries.

    The first micro-factory is expected to be operational by Q3 2025, with full-scale production by the end of 2025. This production capability aims to meet delivery commitments and the growing demand for electric buses.

    The company plans to operate on the EBAAS (Electric Bus as a Service) model. The EBAAS (Electric Bus as a Service) model offers comprehensive support, including Annual Maintenance Contracts (AMC) and warranties. EBAAS includes charging infrastructure options, AMCs, warranties, and training. The EBAAS digital fleet management tool provides features such as real-time tracking, nearest charging station locations, driver management systems, and service scheduling.

    Also read: Blackbuck EV initiates road trials for ELON 3X electric bus

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  • M&M lines up Rs 37k-cr investments

    New Delhi: The Rs37,000-crore investment plan of Mahindra & Mahindra (M&M) over the next three years is a testament to our commitment to boost growth, innovation and job creation in the country, said Anand Mahindra, Chairman, Mahindra Group. Urging the private sector to utilise the government’s employment-linked schemes, announced during the Union Budget 2024-2025, Anand Mahindra said that this approach will help create more jobs for the youth, especially the fresh talent coming out of colleges.

    The Mahindra Group Chairman, while addressing shareholders at the annual general meeting of Mahindra & Mahindra (M&M), said it is a collective responsibility of the private sector and the government to generate employment for nation-building.

  • Tata Motors’ sales dip in July, commercial vehicles see 18 per cent drop YoY

    Mumbai, Aug 1: Tata Motors on Thursday reported a total sale of 71,996 vehicles in July, a significant drop from 80,633 units sold during the same period last year.

    The total domestic sales dipped 11 per cent, to 70,161 units against 78,844 in July last year.

    When it comes to commercial vehicles, the company sold 27,042 units last month, down 18 per cent from July last year (32,944 units).

    Total passenger vehicle sales (including EVs) stood at 44,954 units, down 6 per cent from 47,689 units in the same period last year.

    Segment-wise, the company saw a dip in domestic sales of medium and heavy intermediate commercial vehicles (MH & ICV) in July, including trucks and buses, at 11,174 units, compared to 13,291 units in July last year.

    Total sales for MH & ICV domestic and international Business in July, including trucks and buses, stood at 11,886 units — compared to 13,830 units in July 2023, the automaker informed.

    For the April-June period of this fiscal, the global wholesales of all Tata Motors’ commercial vehicles and Tata Daewoo range were at 93,410, higher by 6 per cent over Q1 FY24.

    The company recorded global wholesales of passenger vehicles (including electric vehicles) at 138,682, lower by 1 per cent.

    For the Q1 FY25, the sales in the domestic and international markets stood at 229,891 vehicles, compared to 226,245 units during Q1 FY24.

    Driven by friendly government policies, rapid urbanisation and economic growth, sales volumes of commercial vehicles (CV) have nearly recovered to the pre-Covid times.

  • Hyundai Motor India logs over 3 pc sales drop in July, Kia India logs 2.5 pc growth

    New Delhi, Aug 1: Hyundai Motor India Limited (HMIL) on Thursday reported 3.21 per cent drop in total vehicle sales for July at 64,563 units, against 66,701 vehicles in the same month last year.

    The automaker sold 49,013 units in the domestic market, a 3.33 per cent decrease from 50,701 vehicles sold in July last year.

    In terms of exports, it stood at 15,550 units, 2.81 per cent down from 16,000 vehicles.

    In the first half of this year (January-June period), the company sold 4,50,335 units, achieving a growth of 4.3 per cent (year-on-year).

    SUVs accounted for 66.6 per cent of the domestic sales, with the new Hyundai CRETA achieving sales of 1 lakh units, since its launch in January.

    “The new Hyundai CRETA achieved key milestones of 1 lakh unit sales till July, while also achieving highest-ever monthly domestic sales of 17,350 units in July 2024,” said Tarun Garg, Whole-time Director and Chief Operating Officer, HMIL.

    Meanwhile, Kia India continued its growth momentum with 20,507 domestic sales in July.

    The automaker registered 2.5 per cent YoY growth compared to 20,002 units sold in July last year.

    The newly-launched Sonet claimed the highest contribution to Kia India’s July sales with 9,459 units, followed by Carens and Seltos with 5,679 and 5347 units, respectively.

    As per Vahan data, Kia India recorded a growth of 26 per cent against the industry average of 9 per cent in the month.

    “We have registered a healthy YoY sales growth in July, a good headstart for the Q3 and H2 of the year. We are determined to maintain this momentum throughout the year, which should give us all confidence in our future success,” said Hardeep Singh Brar, SVP and National Head of Sales and Marketing.

    Kia India has completed over 1.2 million vehicle dispatches from its Anantapur plant, including over 9.8 lakh domestic sales and over 2.5 lakh exports.