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Tag: mobility

  • The New BMW X7 Signature Edition Launched In India

    Hyderabad: BMW India launched the new BMW X7 Signature Edition on Thursday. Locally produced at BMW Group Plant, Chennai, the car will be available exclusively in the petrol xDrive40i variant.

    The new vehicle makes for an innovative and exclusive ambience. The first element to catch attention is the new digital BMW Curved Display which is harmoniously unified into the cockpit area, so it almost looks like it is floating. It’s typical BMW driver-orientation, clear reduced design along with interplay of eye-catching graphics, modern colours and futuristic textures create an immersive visual appearance. The Individual Instrument Panel lapped in genuine leather brings a particularly progressive feel to the modern premium ambience. Another premium feature is the ambient light bar extending from the centre stack to the passenger side. It beautifully elevates the overall Ambient Lighting effect available in 14 colors. Moreover, its crystalline appearance and prismatic structure perfectly complement the crafted clarity components such as the gear selector, iDrive control wheel, audio control button and start/stop button.

    The overall experience of the occupants of the vehicle is further enhanced by the Ambient Air Package. Filling up the cabin with a sense of space and natural light flow is the large Sky Lounge Panoramic glass sunroof extending till the third row. The Sky Lounge comes with over 15,000 individual light points which can be altered via the ambient light setting to create a stunning light pattern. Crystal Door pins add to the overall aesthetic appeal inside the car. Also available as standard are Backrest cushions in Alcantara for the rear seat passengers. Captain Seats lapped in genuine leather Merino offer the perfect individual luxury experience for rear seat passengers. Harman Kardon surround sound system with 16 speakers provides an intense musical feast for the ears. Handsfree operation of split tailgate gives easy access to a boot capacity of up to 2,120 litres.

    The petrol engine melds maximum power with exemplary efficiency and offer spontaneous responsiveness even at low engine speeds. The 3-litre 6-cylinder in-line petrol engine of the vehicle produces an output of 381 hp and maximum torque of 520 Nm at 1,800 – 5,000 rpm. The car accelerates from 0 -100 km / hr in just 5.8 seconds. Additionally, the engine features a 48V Electrical Motor that with a power output of 12 hp and torque output of 200 Nm, helping achieve even better efficiency and dynamics.

    BMW Connected Drive technology breaks the innovation barrier and turns the car into an interconnected digital device. Host of connected drive features include BMW ID, BMW App, Digital Key, Emergency Call, Real-time Traffic Information, Remote Services and smart phone parking. BMW Live Cockpit Professional includes the freestanding BMW Curved Display with Navigation with real-time traffic information and augmented view, a 12.3-inch digital information display behind the steering wheel, a 14.9-inch Control Display and BMW Head-up Display.

    The latest BMW iDrive with Operating System 8.5, offers all the possibilities for interaction between occupants and the vehicle – using touch, gesture or speech. It is complemented by the BMW Intelligent Personal Assistant system which has a self-learning intelligence that adopts a driver’s individual habits, proactively provides useful tips on new driving functions and seamlessly integrates smartphone apps. Wireless smartphone integration and regular Remote Software Upgrades ensure that the car is always up to date.

    My BMW app functions include popular options for keeping an eye on the current vehicle status at all times as well as Learning Navigation, which offers destination suggestions and traffic information based on the owner’s driving habits. In addition, customers can use the My BMW app to generate the BMW Digital Key Plus, which turns a smartphone into a digital vehicle key. It will enable customers to physically open the doors when unlocking them this way. If the Digital Key Plus is activated, it’s also possible to perform automated parking manoeuvres.

  • Netizens slam Bhavish over poor scooter quality as he shows battery to Vaishnaw

    New Delhi: As Bhavish Aggarwal met Union Railways and Electronics and IT Minister, Ashwini Vaishnaw, on Thursday to show an indigenously-made lithium battery cell, netizens slammed Ola Electric scooters’ quality, saying these EV cells “need to be tested according to international standards”. Ola Electric has announced the integration of its battery cells in its own vehicles, starting Q1 FY26.

    An X user posted that “our business needs to be quality-wise accurate globally”. “Working on different businesses at once without looking at quality concerns will affect Ola’s footprint in the domestic market. Specifically talking about Ola two-wheelers. He (Bhavish) should take it seriously,” he posted.

    Another EV user posted on X: “I am using an e-vehicle scooter and its battery is deteriorating in a year’s use. Indian products should establish a benchmark so that people around the world find made in India products trustworthy,” he said.

    The Ola Electric cell is currently under trial production at its Gigafactory. The company recently showcased the indigenously developed Bharat 4680 cell and battery pack. The cell claims to have a wider operating window (10-700C), a longer life with more than 1,000 charge cycles, and better fast-charging capabilities.

    Meanwhile, another X user posted that our nomenclature of almost everything seems too self-obsessed or hyper-nationalist. “Ever heard about China cell or Tesla’s America cell? It frankly shows that one considers to have over-achieved something, and it’s not a usual part of a country’s technological prowess,” the user commented.

    Recently, after the shocking Ola Electric showroom fire incident in Karnataka, the company’s social media platforms were flooded with complaints about its EV scooters, as several customers raised serious concerns about product quality and service. Ola Electric users had complaints ranging from faulty software, bad service quality and poor response from the company when raised. As per the latest reports, Ola Electric receives around 80,000 complaints monthly, overwhelming its service centres. On peak days, complaints rise to 6,000-7,000, resulting in long wait times, overburdened staff and growing customer dissatisfaction.

  • Now, parts of BMW to be manufactured in Punjab: CM Mann

    Chandigarh: Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann on Thursday assured cooperation to Modern Automotives Ltd for their plans to expand their project in the state and manufacture a pivotal part of automotive giant BMW.

    A delegation of Modern Automotives Ltd, comprising Aditya Goyal, Suhail Goyal and Manish Bagga, called on the Chief Minister here. Now parts of BMW will be manufactured in the state, a statement by the state government said.

    During the meeting, he was informed that Modern Automotives has become the first Indian company to receive approval for deliveries of differential pinion shafts to German luxury vehicles manufacturer BMW AG Munich. They said the order has been confirmed for 2.5 million units valued at Rs 150 crore, adding that models with investment worth hundreds of crores for development and testing.

    The models would be executed on the same premises by adding additional lines bringing in more revenue, employment and investment. Assuring full support and cooperation to the company for their future endeavours, the Chief Minister accepted the invitation of delegation to lay the foundation stone of the plant next month.

    He said it is a matter of pride and satisfaction that the parts of leading automotive giant BMW will now be produced in the state. CM Mann said that this move would give impetus to the state’s industrial growth, besides highlighting it on the international map. The Chief Minister reiterated that the state has an industry-friendly government with a real single-window system for the well-being of investors. He said that Punjab is a land of opportunities and the leading companies from across the world are making a beeline to invest in the state.

    CM Mann said that Punjab has complete communal harmony, and industrial peace coupled with a congenial atmosphere for industrial growth, which are giving impetus to its overall development, prosperity and progress.

  • 2024 Nissan Magnite Facelift Launch Scheduled for October 4: What To Expect

    Nissan India is gearing up for the launch of the much-anticipated 2024 Nissan Magnite Facelift on October 4, 2024. This refreshed Nissan Magnite promises to make a significant impact in the competitive segment, which includes rivals like the Maruti Suzuki Brezza, Tata Nexon, Hyundai Venue, and Mahindra 3XO.

    Revamped Feature List: Car Design Updates

    The 2024 Nissan Magnite Facelift features a host of cosmetic updates that give it a more modern appearance. Key exterior upgrades include a redesigned front grille, updated headlamps, and LED daytime running lights. Moreover, we could also comprehend more change on its exterior. These include new alloy wheels, redesigned front and rear bumpers, and updated taillights. However, the SUV facelift is expected to remain the same with unchanged dimensions.

    Inside, the Magnite will showcase interior refinements that include dashboard updates and a larger touchscreen infotainment system, delivering a more user-friendly experience. Additional comfort-focused features and a single-pane sunroof elevate the cabin’s appeal. In fact, safety features remain a top priority, with the SUV outfitted with six airbags and advanced driver assistance features to ensure a safe and enhanced driving experience.

    While the 2024 Nissan Magnite Facelift brings substantial design enhancements and tech improvements, its powertrain remains unchanged. The SUV will continue to offer a 1.0-litre petrol engine, with options for a naturally aspirated engine or a turbocharged petrol engine, coupled with a five-speed manual, AMT, or CVT gearbox. This balance of performance and efficiency is expected to meet the demands of Indian consumers.

    As the compact SUV market grows increasingly competitive, the 2024 Nissan Magnite Facelift launch in India and around the globe aims to solidify its position through a feature-packed SUV offering. Furthermore, the Nissan sales strategy appears focused on capitalising on automotive trends, providing a vehicle that caters to the evolving preferences of the passenger vehicle market.

    With the upcoming car launch that is expected to debut soon, enthusiasts and potential buyers are eager to see how it stacks up against other popular models in the segment. In fact, the 2024 Nissan Magnite Facelift price is expected to start at Rs 5.99 lakh (ex-showroom), with only a minor price increase.

  • Nash Energy commissions a 600 MWh Lithium-ion cell manufacturing plant • EVreporter

    Nash Group is a leading Contract Manufacturer and Box Build Services provider, along with OEM/ODM design, engineering and white label products and solutions for leading auto OEMs like Hyundai, Kia, Daimler, Volvo, etc. and Energy OEMs like Siemens, Schneider, ABB, Hitachi etc.

    Nash Energy, part of the Nash Group, has completed commissioning its 600 MWh annual capacity LFP cylindrical cell manufacturing plant in Bengaluru. The cells are BIS certified and currently under customer qualification with several EV and ESS OEMs. Nash is also working on several system solutions – from 25.6V to 1100V. Within the EV supply chain, Nash supplies DC-DC converters, Motor Controllers, Battery Chargers, Bus Bars, Wire Harness, Camera and display dashboard solutions, BMS, etc.

    In this chat with Anil Kumar, the Chief Operating Officer at Nash Energy, we discuss their lithium-ion cell manufacturing capabilities, plans and road map for this business.

    Please tell us about the current Lithium-ion cell manufacturing setup at Nash Energy. 

    Nash Energy has established a 600 MWh lithium-ion cell manufacturing facility in Bangalore, making it India’s first mass-scale LFP manufacturing line. The facility is operational, and we are currently ramping up production to meet growing market demand.  

    Can you also share about the cell specification currently being produced? 

     33140 3.2V 15Ah LFP Cylindrical cell

    Our current production focuses on the cylindrical cell, 32140 Format, 15Ah Capacity in LFP Chemistry, designed for electric vehicles (EVs), including 2-wheelers, 3-wheelers, and 4-wheelers, and various stationary energy storage applications. This cell is BIS-certified, ensuring compliance with quality and safety standards. 

    Please share about Nash Energy’s cell manufacturing technology partner and the type of technology license in place. 

    Nash Energy has a wholly owned R&D facility in Japan, which serves as the technology centre for both our current and next-generation technologies like Solid State.

    This in-house R&D capability allows us to stay ahead of technological advancements and maintain full control over our intellectual property. 

    Please help us understand your manufacturing roadmap.

    Our long-term manufacturing roadmap includes scaling to a cumulative capacity of over 10 GWh by 2030. This expansion plan is aligned with the increasing demand for lithium-ion cells in the EV sector and other applications, ensuring Nash Energy’s position as a key player in the market. 

    Where is Nash Energy procuring the different cell components at the moment? 

    At present, we source all our cell raw materials from China. 

    Please also walk us through the localisation or domestic value-addition plan for your cell manufacturing. 

    Nash Industries, part of the Nash Group, has over 50 years of experience in sheet metal and component manufacturing.

    • The First Phase will focus on localising all the metallic components by leveraging the capabilities Nash Industries.
    • In the Second Phase, we plan to localise Electrolyte and other Non-Metallic components for which we are already in discussion with local suppliers.
    • Phase 3 and Phase 4 will consist of localisation of Foils, Separator, Anode and Cathode Material.

    When it comes to battery pack manufacturing, Nash Group is capable of producing over 90% of the battery pack components in-house, as demonstrated below.

    Source: Nash Energy

    What is the current status of the customer qualification process for your cells? 

    We have initiated the customer qualification process by distributing BIS-certified sample cells to our customers. This allows them to test the cells in real-world applications and validate performance, ensuring our products meet their specific requirements and expectations. 

    Also read: Challenges during lithium-ion cell manufacturing plant set up – Part 3

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  • Kia Records Highest First-day Bookings with 1,822 pre-orders of New Carnival Limousine

    Hyderabad: The highly anticipated launch of the year, the new edition of Kia Carnival Limousine, has achieved a segment-leading milestone with 1,822 pre-orders within the first 24 hours. This sets a new benchmark for the segment and also, surpassed the first-day 1,410 bookings of the previous generation. The last generation of the Kia Carnival had already established itself as a trendsetter in its category and recorded a sale of 14,542 units in its 3 years of operation.

    Bookings for the new model have begun, and were made available through Kia India’s official website and authorised dealerships nationwide. Customers were able to secure their bookings by paying an initial amount of Rs 200,000.

    Joonsu Cho, Chief Sales Officer, Kia India, stated, “This is a proud moment for us, with the new Carnival setting new standards. We are confident the new model will redefine the segment. With its distinctive design, luxurious features, and segment-first technologies, the Carnival continues to push industry benchmarks.”

    The model is designed to impress with its cutting-edge and luxurious features like 2nd Row Luxury Powered Relaxation Seats with ventilation & leg support, One Touch Smart Power Sliding Door, Wide Electric Dual Sunroof, 12-speaker Bose Premium Sound System, Dual Panoramic Curved Display: 31.24cm (12.3”) CCNC Infotainment, 31.24cm (12.3”) cluster, ADAS Level 2 with 23 autonomous features and many more to ensure a secure and comfortable journey.

    The overwhelming response to the pre-launch bookings, along with the exceptional first-day numbers, reinforces Kia India’s commitment to delivering outstanding products that resonate with Indian customers.

  • JBM ECOLIFE Mobility secures USD 100 M funding from ADB and AIIB • EVreporter

    JBM ECOLIFE Mobility (P) Ltd, a subsidiary of JBM Auto Limited and e-bus operator, has obtained USD 100 million in funding from the Asian Development Bank (ADB) and the Asian Infrastructure Investment Bank (AIIB). The funds will be used to supply and operate electric buses under the Gross Cost Contract (GCC) model across various states in India in a phased approach.

    JBM Ecolife is currently operating ~1200 buses across multiple cities, including Mumbai, Delhi, Ahmedabad, Surat, Bhubaneswar, Cuttack and many others. 

    As per the company statement, JBM has deployed over 1,500 electric buses in 10 states and at more than 15 major airports in India. The company has an order book for over 6,500 electric buses. Additionally, JBM has established a large electric bus manufacturing facility in the Delhi-NCR region, capable of producing 20,000 buses annually.

    JBM’s electric buses, introduced in 2018, have already achieved 150 million e-kilometers of their 1 billion e-kilometer promise, added the statement.

    “We are grateful to ADB and AIIB for their continued support in advancing sustainable public transportation across India,” said Nishant Arya, Vice Chairman & Managing Director, JBM Group. “ We have been pioneers in bringing electric mobility solutions in India and have consciously developed a complete EV ecosystem that accelerates the deployment of EVs across multiple geographies. Going ahead we continue to stand by our commitment towards playing a significant role in achieving India’s Net Zero 2070 target. Our electric buses will continue to lead India’s e-mobility momentum towards taking clean public mobility solutions to the grassroot level.”

    “By promoting e-mobility, ADB is helping communities reduce their carbon footprint, improve public transport, and build eco-friendly urban infrastructure,” said ADB Director General for Private Sector Operations Department Suzanne Gaboury. “ADB’s partnership with the JBM Group will help build clean, safe, and inclusive public transport in India.”

    Najeeb Haider, Director General, Global Project and Corporate Finance at AIIB said, “This association focusses at accelerating the adoption of clean energy public mobility solutions directed towards enhancing the quality of life in urban & semi urban cities. We aim to set a precedent for the future green infrastructure projects in India, this one being a transformative project that will drive sustainable and resilient development.”

    Also read: Jindal Stainless and JBM Auto team up for over 500 electric buses deployment

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  • New BMW Bike Models F 900 GS and 900 GS Adventure Launched in India

    Hyderabad: The all-new BMW F 900 GS and BMW F 900 GS Adventure have been launched in India. These motorcycles will be available as completely built-up units (CBU) and deliveries will commence from next month.

    Vikram Pawah, President and CEO, BMW Group India said, “The all-new BMW F 900 GS and BMW F 900 GS Adventure herald a new era in BMW Motorrad’s off-road history. These are undoubtedly your ‘Perfect enduros’ that provide purist riding fun, thanks to their sophisticated off-road, touring and adventure capabilities. They demonstrably carry the GS-DNA. The all-new BMW F 900 GS is ready to overcome all the obstacles that you can get on your journey. The all-new BMW F 900 GS Adventure is the ideal tour companion for short or long distances.”

    The motorcycles will be available at ex-showroom prices as follows: BMW F 900 GS Rs13,75,000, BMW F 900 GS Adventure Rs14,75,000

    To enable customers to own BMW Motorrad motorcycles of their choice, BMW Financial Services India will offer customised and flexible financial solutions. Customers can also get their loans approved before delivery takes place. For complete peace of mind, all BMW Motorrad bikes come with a standard warranty for ‘three years, unlimited kilometers’, with an option to extend the warranty to fourth and fifth year. Road-Side Assistance, a 24×7 365 days package further ensures prompt services in case of breakdown and towing situations.

    The all-new BMW F 900 GS and BMW F 900 GS Adventure

    The new models have been completely redesigned and benefit from a dynamic design that signals increased off-road qualities and sportiness. New, close-fitting tank side panels, together with a new radiator trim, give the all-new bike a sleek, sporty and off-road-oriented look. At the same time, new frame trims (featuring the GS logo) help the rider maintain optimum leg contact with the motorcycle, especially when riding off-road in a standing position. In typical GS style, the new model features the short GS beak underneath the new, compact headlight and the typical GS flyline that stretches over the tank and the sporty seat to the rear. Off-road qualities, sportiness and dynamic performance are also reflected in the entire rear section, which is significantly narrower and more dynamic than the predecessor model. The dynamic appearance of the is further enhanced by the sporty rear silencer by Akrapoviè. One of the key points of the new design of the all-new BMW F 900 GS is the redesigned plastic fuel tank, which allowed for a much slimmer and ergonomically more favourable design.

    The increased off-road qualities are expressed by the ergonomic triangle (handlebar – seat – footrests) optimised for off-road use. The handlebars, for example, are now positioned 15 mm higher than on the previous model. In addition, the now standard Enduro footrests are positioned 20 mm lower, which, in conjunction with the higher handlebar position and the new design of the fuel tank, offers particular advantages when riding standing up on rough terrain.

    The new GS model makes a sporty statement with the Style Passion variant in São Paulo Yellow solid paint. Black-coated engine (not in the Passion model variant), wheels and forks give it a robust and masculine touch. The bike’s dynamic look is enhanced by the red rear frame as well as radiator trims, fuel tank side parts and slider tube cover in vehicle colour with black/red tapes. In the sportiest “GS Trophy” version in the colour combination Lightwhite solid paint/Racing blue metallic, the all-new BMW F 900 GS emphasises its off-road character with the hand protectors with aluminium bracket, the aluminium engine guard, the black fork tubes and the black seat (also with red contrasts). Sporty touches are provided by the optional tinted windshield, the optional gold wheel rims and the white rear frame. The fuel tank side surfaces and radiator trim in Lightwhite solid paint as well as the front wheel cover are highlighted with tapes in the typical BMW colours of blue/red on a white background.

    The GS Adventure shows that is ready for adventure, off-road tours and long-distance travel in the Blackstorm metallic (also for the fuel tank centre cover) and newly designed radiator trims with GS logo in white aluminium. Black components such as the engine, fixed fork tubes, wheel rims and a black-grey comfort seat blend in harmoniously. The new BMW F 900 GS Adventure in the White Aluminium matt variant signals a spirit of adventure and long-distance travel qualities. Together with new radiator trims with GS logo in White Aluminium (also for the fuel tank centre cover) as well as a black-grey comfort bench seat, the new BMW F 900 GS Adventure looks sporty and stylish at the same time.

    The 2-cylinder in-line engine of the new models provides even more powerful propulsion thanks to significantly increased output. It generates 77 kW (105 hp) at 8,500 rpm and has a maximum torque of 93 Nm at 6,750 rpm. The output and torque have been increased and the torque curve is now significantly fuller over the entire speed range. This results in noticeably more pulling power and faster acceleration.

    The models rely on a bridge-type frame made of deep-drawn sheet steel parts welded together, which integrates the 2-cylinder in-line engine as a supporting element. The new bike features a completely redesigned rear section which makes it look even more dynamic. The rear wheels are guided by a double-sided swinging arm made of aluminium in conjunction with a directly linked central spring strut.

    The LED headlight offers a larger low beam opening angle and thus better illumination directly in front of the motorcycle. This increases safety, especially when riding at night at low speeds. The new model also features LED headlight as standard. Furthermore, the turn indicator and control lights of all both models also use LED technology.

    A large 6.5-inch TFT display comes standard with the new models. Information diversity, quality of presentation and, last but not least, user-friendliness are unrivalled. Phoning, listening to music and navigating while riding is very comfortable.

  • The first-ever car model BMW XM Label Arrives in India

    Hyderabad: The first-ever BMW XM Label has been launched in India. Available as Completely Built-up Unit (CBU), only one unit out of 500 produced is coming to India.

    Vikram Pawah, President and CEO, BMW Group India said, “The first-ever BMW XM Label maximises the exclusivity factor with even more expressive styling. It brings together the M Hybrid system with extra power and bespoke design elements that showcase its standout performance attributes to unmistakable effect. The model responds to the needs and desires of customers with a taste for an extroverted lifestyle and passion for ultimate performance in a car reaching beyond traditional conventions. With only 1 out of the total 500 units produced coming to India, the car is truly special.”

    The car is available at an ex-showroom price of Rs3 crore 15 lakh.

    With its unique design features, the the model has a singularly extrovert aura. The muscular proportions of a dynamic Sports Activity Vehicle converge with an extrovert exterior design featuring large surfaces, clear lines, and a front-end look reserved for luxury-class BMW models. Added to the mix here are design accents underscoring the singular character of the car focused on achieving the highest peaks of performance. The strikingly illuminated BMW Iconic Glow kidney grille surround lends an unmistakable appearance. Toronto Red metallic for the BMW M kidney grille surround and rear diffuser insert create additional design cues that combine with a body paint finish in BMW Individual Frozen Carbon Black metallic. The use of red also extends to the model badges and the wheel inserts. The contrast of the gloss colour accents against shimmering matt surfaces ensures the exterior of the car has a particularly enthralling effect. Exclusive 22-inch M light alloy wheels add on to the vehicle’s style quotient. The latest generation of M Sports Brakes with Red Calipers produces accurate stopping power.

    A black/red colour scheme also brings a visually appealing and sporting flavour to the interior of the car. A generous feeling of space, high-quality materials and extravagant design transform the rear of the car into an exclusive M Lounge. The distinctive three¬ dimensional headliner and the trim for the body pillars have black surfaces. Red is used to bring an extra sense of exclusivity to the diamond-shaped upper sections of the backrests and the integrated head restraints of the seats for the driver and front passenger and the outer rear seats. This is complemented by red contrast stitching for the black surfaces of the seats, instrument panel, door trim and centre console, and the likewise red accents for the air vents. Among the other exclusive features of the car interior are a red “XM” badge below the control display and an interior trim strip in carbon fibre satin effect with red and blue accent threads highlighting this as an M car. Inside the limited-edition variant of the XM Label, customers will find a plaque below the control display reading “1 of 500”.

    M multifunction seats, knee pads, M-specific content on the BMW curved display and the standard-fitted BMW head-up display, the signature M gear selector lever and an M-specific control panel on the centre console are the headline features of a sports car-style cockpit optimised to deliver a richly engaging performance experience on board. The M leather steering wheel has trim elements in Black Chrome, plus M buttons and gearshift paddles with carbon inlays whose plus and minus symbols are in red. An exclusive special feature of the car is the symbol identifying Boost mode on the left¬ hand shift paddle. Bowers & Wilkins Diamond Surround Sound System with 20 speakers and 1,475-watt amplifier, along with illuminated elements generate an absorbingly clear and multi-layered 3D sound experience for people in all seats.

    The M Hybrid system in the car demonstrates the intoxicating effect of drive system electrification in high-performance models from BMW M GmbH in impressive style. The precisely honed interplay of the electric motor and V8 engine ensures an instantaneous delivery of power that then builds emphatically and continues unabated into the highest reaches of the rev range. The plug-in hybrid system delivers a combined maximum output of 550 kW (748 hp) and maximum torque of 1000 Nm. The combustion engine delivers up to 430 kW (585 hp) and a maximum torque of 720 Nm while, the electric drive system generates a peak output of 145 kW (197 hp) and a maximum torque of 280 Nm. A high voltage 25.7 kW lithium-ion battery is situated in the underbody. It delivers a pure-electric driving range of up to 76 – 82 kms. The car sprints from 0 -100 km / hr in just 3.8 seconds. Top speed is electronically limited to 250 km/hr, although this figure rises to 290 km/hr with the M Driver’s Package. The note of a V8 engine is unmistakable, but the XM also offers an emotionally rich sound experience in pure-electric mode with BMW IconicSounds Electric.

    The car comes with a complimentary BMW Wallbox charger with installation. It can be integrated at home to enable safe and convenient charging.

    The fourth generation 8 – speed M Steptronic transmission delivers smooth gear shifts and top levels of power delivery and shift comfort as well as impressive efficiency. Three driving modes can be selected using the M Hybrid button on the centre console. Hybrid default setting for intelligently controlled interplay of the combustion engine and electric motor maximises efficiency or performance depending on the requirement.

    The M xDrive all-wheel-drive system maximises traction, agility and directional stability. Precisely controlled and fully variable distribution of power between front and rear axles and between the left and right rear wheels ensures masterful performance in any situation.

    BMW ConnectedDrive technology breaks the innovation barrier and turns the car into an interconnected digital device. Host of connected drive features include Digital Key Plus, Emergency Call, Real-time Traffic Information, and Remote Services through MyBMW app. BMW Live Cockpit Professional includes the freestanding 14.9” BMW Curved Display with Navigation with real-time traffic information and augmented view, a 12.3-inch digital information display behind the steering wheel and BMW Head-up Display.

    The latest BMW Operating System 8.5 offers all the possibilities for interaction between occupants and the vehicle – using touch or voice. It is complemented by the BMW Intelligent Personal Assistant system that adopts driver’s individual habits and proactively provides useful tips on driving functions. Regular Remote Software Upgrades ensure that the car is always up to date.

    My BMW App keeps an eye on vehicle status and includes ‘Learning Navigation’ which offers destination suggestions and traffic information based on driving habits. BMW Digital Key Plus turns a smartphone into a vehicle key enabling remote locking / unlocking and starting the car.

    The spread of driver assistance systems is more extensive than ever. Parking Assistant Plus with Surround View Camera makes parking in tight spots easier by taking over acceleration, braking as well as steering. The Reversing Assistant provides unmatched support in reversing out of a parking spot or through narrow driveways. It keeps a record of the last 50 metres driven and assists by taking over the steering.

    BMW EfficientDynamics includes features such as BMW eDrive technology, Electric power Steering, Hybrid-specific Auto Start-Stop, BMW EfficientLightweight, Active air flap control, efficiency -optimised all-wheel drive. Driving Experience Control switch and many other innovative technologies. The Adaptive M Suspension Professional with additional Active Roll Stabilisation that uses the new control logic to optimise sportiness and comfort. The damper forces are controlled using an M specific characteristic.

    The newly designed Travel & Comfort System is also available to provide customised entertainment in the rear. BMW Safety technologies include six airbags, Antilock Braking System (ABS), M Dynamic Mode (MDM), Attentiveness Assistance, M Sport differential networked with Dynamic Stability Control (DSC), Cornering Brake Control (CBC), Dynamic Brake Control (DBC), Active Roll Stabilisation with Active Roll Comfort, Performance Control, electric parking brake with auto hold, side-impact protection, electronic vehicle immobilizer and crash sensor, ISOFIX child seat mounting and integrated emergency spare wheel under the load floor.

  • A Luxurious MPV Set to Redefine Indian Roads

    Kia Motors has presented the latest edition of the Carnival in India, just ahead of its official launch on October 3. Along with the reveal, significant details about its features, variants, and specifications have been disclosed. So, let’s delve into what this high-end MPV has to offer.

    Kia Carnival India variant 2024

    The new Kia Carnival is available in two variants:

    The Limousine Plus variant comes with an extended list of features, including rain-sensing wipers, a puddle lamp, a smart power tailgate, LED rear fog lamps, and chrome skid plates on both sides. It also boasts advanced technology like an 11-inch head-up display, a 12-speaker BOSE premium sound system, and a wireless charging pad. Additional luxury touches in the Limousine Plus trim include side sills with matte chrome accents, heated and adjustable leg support, and powered, ventilated relaxation seats in the second row.

    Kia Carnival India: Specifications and Colour Options

    The Kia Carnival, which is making its debut in India, combines luxurious features with versatile options. Here’s a look at the Kia Carnival India’s key specifications and colour choices available for this premium MPV:

    Specifications

    Engine Options: 2.2-liter Diesel Engine

    Transmission: 8-Speed Automatic Transmission

    Dimensions:

    • Length: Approximately 5,515 mm
    • Width: About 1,995 mm
    • Height: Roughly 1,740 mm

    Interiors:

    • Seating Capacity for up to 8 passengers
    • Upholstery
    • Climate Control

    Tech Features:

    • 12.3-inch display
    • 8-speaker sound system
    • Electrically sliding doors
    • Electronic stability control and parking sensor (front and rear)

    Safety Features:

    • ADAS Level 2 (23 features)
    • 8 airbags
    • VSM
    • TPMS

    Colour Options: Users can choose from the colour options of Fusion Black and Glacier White Pearl. Inside, the Limousine variant has a dual-tone Navy & Misty Grey interior theme, whereas the Limousine Plus has a dual-tone Tuscan & Umber theme.

    In terms of pricing, the Kia Carnival offers a step up from the Toyota Innova HyCross and provides a more affordable alternative compared to the Vellfire. However, even with local assembly, the Carnival is expected to be pricier than the top variants of the Innova HyCross.