Author: Tejen Dhankhar

Key Highlights

• To get a more powerful electric motor
• Leak document showcases specs
• Will be available in 2 variants

Ather is working on a new update of its 450X electric scooter. Yes, the updated battery details have leaked online via NCT-type approval documents. The 2023 Ather 450X Gen 4 is what we anticipate this could be. However, the updated scooter might remain largely the same as the Gen 3. The main changes are under the seat compartment where the battery and motor are fixed.

Also Read – Mahindra-Peugeot Kisbee Electric Scooter Spied On Test In India

Ather 450X Gen 4 Details

Speaking of the leaked document shows the battery and specs of this new scooter. Ather 450X Gen 3 was launched a few months back with a bigger battery and riding range. However, the upcoming update gets a bigger battery. The Gen 4 might use a 3.66 kWh battery pack. For reference, the Gen 3 comes with a 2.6kWh battery pack. Additionally, the leaked document shows that there are two settings for approval. These settings refer to two variants i.e. a 450 Plus and the 450X. The battery package on the Gen 4 is also heavier as it weighs 22 kg as compared to the 19 kg of the Gen 3.

The peak power for the 450X stands at 6.4kWh which is more than the Gen 3. Additionally, it gets all the riding modes as the current Gen 3. The riding range is also more or less the same as the current scooter. The main talking point is the absence of Warp mode on Setting 2. As anticipated, this setting 2 is a reference name for the standard variant. Additionally, the Setting 2 scooter makes less peak power of 5.8 kW. This variant also misses the Warp mode & hence its power is restricted. According to the leaked documents, the peak power in Sport mode is 5.8 kW, 3.2 kW in Ride, 2.3kW in Smart Exco, & 1.9kW in Eco mode.

We also anticipate that the Gen 4 scooter might get more features. These might include the use of a bigger infotainment screen, more efficient riding assist functions, etc. Additionally, the new scooter might also feature bigger wheels and revised overall dimensions.

Verdict

As per the leaked document, this upcoming scooter is more like a generation update. However, we think it is too early to decide on it. Additionally, there are reports on the internet about Ather developing a small e-scooter to compete with Ola S1 Air. Meanwhile, the leaked details showcase that these specs are not of a small e-scooter. We suspect that if it’s the Gen 4; it won’t be any time soon before 2023 that we see it nearing production.

Also Read – 2022 Ola S1 Air Launched In India For Rs 84,999 With 101 Km Range

Source

• Investment of Rs 2,000 crores to be secured under PLI
• Electric bike to debut by 2025
• Will be based on an urban platform

As the world is shifting slowly to EVs, big cult manufacturers are taking their time. One such maker is Royal Enfield which has been spending a lot of time researching the EV market. Now, the Royal Enfield electric bike that seemed a dream; is finally becoming a reality. The latest statement from officials has revealed that its first e-bike will soon begin the testing phase. However, the plans to debut it lay around 2025.

Also Read – Royal Enfield Super Meteor 650 Debut Next Month At The EICMA 2022

Royal Enfield Electric Bike Details

RE’s entry into the EV world is no surprise. Most of the makers worldwide, may it be four-wheelers or two-wheelers, are plunging into EVs. Hence, RE coming into this market will be no surprise. However, the surprising thing will be the product. Because it is known for making retro modern ICE bikes with thumping engines. An EV is not just silent but also doesn’t have the ICE characteristics for which Royal Enfield is popular. Meanwhile, the officials of RE have confirmed that they are soon to begin the testing of their first e-bike. Not many details about it are known but it is anticipated to be an urban bike.

Given the infrastructure lag for EVs in India, RE claims it is in no hurry for launching an EV. This means that the upcoming e-bike will take its good time before launch. According to the company, it is still reading the Indian electric market needs in detail. Hence, a product will only take its final shape once the study gives a green flag. As per the lack of EV charging infra, we can say the first bike will be an urban model. Additionally, the company also told that it is in process of securing a hefty investment as a PLI scheme. This investment can be as big as Rs 2,000 crores for developing electric products.

To construct this e-bike, hiring has begun in India as well as the UK-based R&D center of RE. This also shows the keen interest of a cult maker in EVs. Hence, one can say that EVs are the real future of the automotive world.

Verdict

While the EV debut of RE is due for 2025, its main focus shall remain only on the ICE bikes. This month, Royal Enfield Super Meteor 650 & Shotgun 650 bikes are going to debut. These models will debut at the EICMA 2022. Hence, the electric future of RE still awaits.

Also Read – 2023 Triumph Chrome Limited Edition Bikes Launched In India

• Expected launch by the end of this month
• We drive the car later this month
• Expected to be heavily localized like the EQS 580

Mercedes-Benz is the largest seller of luxury cars in India and they are now aiming to be the leader in the electric luxury space as well. When Mercedes-Benz EQS 53 AMG was launched in India, the company also promised more electric models. The upcoming 2022 Mercedes-Benz EQB SUV is one among them. Just ahead of its official launch this month, a test mule of it has been spied. The showroom-ready test car was spotted at a charging station hence revealing details about what to expect from it.

Also Read – Tata Nexon EV Powertrain Costs Equivalent To A New Tiago EV

2022 Mercedes-Benz EQB Details

The EQB is going to be an SUV. The success of Mercedes-Benz EQC in India has pushed the maker to introduce one more electric SUV. However, unlike the EQS 580 this EQB SUV is going to be based on a different platform. Additionally, it is also expected to be locally manufactured. Meanwhile, the MFA-2 architecture which is used by the GLB SUV globally is going to feature on it.

Speaking of the spied model, it is completely camouflaged. However, the visible design cues like the closed aero front grille, large air dams on the front bumper, and the EQC-inspired headlights look nicely put. Additionally, the overall shape resembles the current design language of the electric fleet from Mercedes. The EQB will be marginally smaller than the EQC but it won’t be any less in terms of luxury. The test car comes with dual-tone alloy wheels, silver roof rails, & a charging point on the rear left quarter panel.

Globally, the EQB comes in three variants. The first one is EQB 250 that makes a peak power of 188 bhp & 385 Nm of peak torque. The EQB 300 4MATIC makes 225 bhp & 390 Nm of toque. The EQB 350 4MATIC develops a peak power of 288 bhp & 520 Nm of peak torque. Its expected pricing in India is around of Rs 60-70 lakh.

Verdict

Mercedes India has plans to make its lineup of products by up to 25 percent consisted only of EVs. The EQB SUV is going to be one step more in achieving this dream. However, with the rivals like Volvo XC40 Recharge, the competition is consistently increasing. All in all, a good choice for customers who are looking for brand, luxury, & emission-free travel altogether.

Also Read – Wuling Air EV : Meet India’s Cheapest Electric Car From MG

• Smaller battery means less weight , will still hit 90 km/h
• Uses more basic underpinnings like a flat footboard
• ARAI-claimed riding range of up to 101 km per charge

Ola Electric has launched yet another version of the S1 scooter. Its called the S1 Air and is now the entry level or base variant of its popular e-scooter. The 2022 Ola S1 Air is now available pan India for Rs 84,999 only. For the first batch of customers who had booked the scooter on or before October 24; the price remained at Rs 79,999. The S1 Air features some technical changes to keep its pricing lower.

Also Read – Upcoming Ola Electric Car Teased Once Again, Gets Futuristic Interior

2022 Ola S1 Air Details

The design and outlook of the Air are similar to the Ola S1 & S1 Pro. However, it is the fewer technical changes that make it stand apart from its siblings. For example, the footboard is now flat to make luggage ferrying easier. Additionally, it uses drum brakes at both ends. Meanwhile, the hardware used on the scooter is the same as that of its sibling scooters. It also uses the same 7-inch infotainment display which will come equipped with MoveOS 3.0.

The front suspension consists of twin telescopic forks and the rear uses twin spring-type shock absorbers. Due to these technical changes, the weight of the Air stands at only 99 kg. This makes it a whopping 26 kg lighter than the S1 Pro itself. Meanwhile, the ergonomics and maneuverability have also increased due to the reduced weight. It is available in 5 colour options – Red, White, Blue, Black, & Silver.

Ola uses a smaller 2.5kWh battery pack on the Air which produced a peak motor power of 4.5kW. This motor has been combined with three riding modes – Eco, Normal, & Sports. The ARAI-claimed riding range in the Eco mode stands at 101 km per charge. This makes it one of the long-distance riding scooters among its rivals. Additionally, the Air can reach a top speed of up to 85 kmph as claimed. The 0-40 kmph comes under 4.3 seconds while 0-60 kmph comes under 9.8 seconds. The charging time for the battery stands at 4 hours 30 mins. Its main rivals include the Ather 450 Plus & Hero Vida V1.

Verdict

The launch of S1 Air has led to the expansion of Ola among budget-oriented buyers as well. The tech-rich Ola scooter comes with a long-riding range and new features. We expect it to sell in good numbers due to its good combination of features and value for money. The deliveries of Air will begin in the first quarter of 2023 in India.

• Available in two variants
• The bike will be delivered to the customer’s doorstep in Mumbai
• Kratos can do a claimed riding range of up to 120 km on a full charge

The Pune-based EV maker Tork has started delivering its first product to its customers. The delivery process of the Tork Kratos electric bike has begun only for Mumbai-based customers. Meanwhile, the e-bike is being delivered to Mumbai customers via courier services. The bikes will be delivered to the customer’s doorstep directly from the Pune headquarters. The Kratos was launched earlier in January this year. However, the production delay has happened due to unavoidable conditions and hence delay in the deliveries as well.

Also Read – 2022 Ola S1 Air Launched In India For Rs 84,999 With 101 Km Range

Tork Kratos Details

The Kratos is a naked sports motorcycle with an electric heart. It comes in two different variants called the Standard and the R. Additionally, the Standard comes with a smaller 7.5kW electric motor. However, the R variant has been equipped with a bigger 9kW electric motor. The Standard variant can reach a claimed top speed of up to 100 kmph. Meanwhile, the R variant can touch a slightly higher 105 kmph mark. Both of these battery packs and electric motors are IP-67 water resistance rated.

Speaking of its design, the layout of it is inspired by the naked sports bike design. Hence, the front set riding position and aggressive styling are implied in it. Compared to its rivals like the Revolt RV 400, the Kratos looks more bulky and mature. Meanwhile, there are three riding modes available on the Kratos. These include – Eco, Normal, & Sports. The R variant of the Kratos can do up to 180 km per charge in the Eco mode as claimed by ARAI. It’s real-world riding range stands up to 120 km in the Eco mode. Other features include the likes of LED lighting, Bluetooth connectivity, remote lock/unlock, etc.

Verdict

The pricing of Kratos is Rs 1.22 lakh (Standard variant) and Rs 1.37 lakh (R variant) with a subsidy in Maharashtra. We think it is a good competitor to the already established Revolt e-bike. However, the brand needs some time to expand itself to achieve customer satisfaction in terms of after-sales support.

Also Read – Upcoming Ola Electric Car Teased Once Again, Gets Futuristic Interior

• Hero will use Ather’s fast-charging network for Vida V1 e-scooter
• New charging stations are being set up with BPCL as well
• V1 has the fastest charging rate of up to 1.2km/min in the segment

Hero Motocorp has made a grand entry into the premium EV two-wheeler segment in India. The Hero Vida V1 e-scooter has taken its rivals ablaze, even if at a small premium in terms of pricing. But, to keep the fire burning, Hero knows that after-sales support is the key game here. Hence, Hero is going to use Ather’s fast-charging network for its Vida V1 charging. Why? Incase you did not know, this is because Hero is one of the biggest stakeholders in Ather Electric. Hence, the tie-up is nothing short of using its own resources for better sales.

We’ve already put it to its paces at the Hero’s test track in Jaipur. Our detailed ride review will be out soon on 91Wheels. Before that happens, you can also have a look at the V1 in our detailed walkaround video below.

Also Read – Ola S1 Pro OS3 Update Coming This Diwali Festival

Hero Vida V1 Electric Charging Details

As per the data, Ather currently has 65 fast charging stations across the country. More details on this can be had on Ather’s website. Using these will be a very brilliant idea as the new customers will instantly get charging options for the V1. Hero had already cleared its intentions that it will make sure that its e-scooter Vida is ready to use in a good ecosystem once launched. Hence, the use of Ather’s DC charging stations is going to help its customers a lot. Additionally, the company is also setting up fast charging stations with BPCL. This joint venture will allow the customers more freedom to use the V1 tension free and will also kick range anxiety out of the picture.

Currently, the Vida is among the fastest-charging scooter in India. It gets charged up to 1.2km/min. The Ather 450X Gen3 stands first with 1.5km/min. Hence, the fast charging has led to a claimed 0-80 percent charge within 65 minutes via the DC fast charging option. Additionally, the network of Ather is already widespread and is consistently spreading more pan India. This will eventually push Vida sales even more because its customers will be able to get more charging options.

Verdict

Hero Vida has a lot to promise to its customers & with the use of Ather’s network and support; Vida can surely be a segment leader. Additionally, the swappable batteries are another boon to this segment of buyers. But, with rivals like Ola S1 Pro, Bajaj Chetak, & TVS iQube already on sale and well-established, Hero will have to work overtime in establishing itself profoundly.

Key Highlights

• New update launch by Diwali festival
• The e-scooter will get new features like hill hold, hypercharge, etc.
• To be updated via OTA (over the air)

If you are planning to buy a high range electric scooter soon, here is the good news. The Ola S1 pro OS3 update is going to get launched very soon. According to the company, it will officially launch the new update this Diwali festival. It means that the scooter will become more high-tech than ever and this follows the recent OS2 updates.

Also Read: Electric Car / Bike Insurance : Everything You Need To Know

Ola Move OS 3.0 Details

Ola S1 Pro will be updated with the new OS3 infotainment software. This software has already been tested and showcased on social media by the CEO Bhavesh Aggrawal himself. Meanwhile, this new update will increase the fun factor exponentially in the S1. How? Well, it will include the updates like hill hold, hypercharge, themes, moods, proximity locks, calling, key sharing, regen braking two, etc.

These updates will make it even more desirable than ever. To keep the customers excited, Ola is also offering a Rs 10,000 discount on the Pro variant. This discount offer is going on until the upcoming Diwali festival. However, Ola has additional plans to introduce a new scooter.

This can possibly be a new variant that will undercut the Pro variant. In terms of pricing, the Pro costs Rs 1,39,000 (after the discount, inclusive of FAM-II subsidy). However, a new scooter from Ola will make the company more accessible among budget-oriented buyers.

Also Read: Ola Electric Motorcycle Confirmed by CEO Bhavish Aggarwal : Details

The Pro comes equipped with a bigger battery pack. This helps in making it attain a 181 km per charge riding range. It is the highest in its segment. Additionally, the scooter supports fast charging via which it can charge up to 75 km in just 18 minutes.

Verdict

As the rivals like the Ather 450X Gen 3, Bajaj Chetak, TVS iQube, etc. keep on updating themselves, the OS3 update was much needed. However, considering the lack of moral support for its customers and consistent complaints, Ola needs to work hard on its network. With that said, the new update is only going to make the scooter more exciting to own.

The Ultraviolette F77 electric motorcycle has made its official debut in a production-ready avatar. Test rides for this sports electric motorcycle will start next month.

This motorcycle has been creating a lot of buzz for sometime now. The Bengaluru-based EV maker has finally showcased the production version of its first product. The F77 is a performance-oriented electric motorcycle that will go on sale in India from the first week of September in India. According to the company, the bike will also be exported to meet the global pre-orders. Yes, bookings have been on for a while now. The ‘performance’ oriented EV space is warming up with Simple One launching India’s quickest e-scooter next month (with deliveries).

Ultraviolette F77 Details

The Ultraviolette F77 bike was showcased for the first time in 2019. Based on a semi-faired concept, the main motive of the bike was to provide the customers with an exhilarating experience. With that said, it has been a long time since the domestic and global markets is waiting for the official bike.

The company revealed the production version on the TAAL airstrip. The ride and unveil event had invited the pilot fraternity across the globe to experience the performance EV. The design of the production bike mimics the concept bike to a large extent. However, there are subtle changes to it for making it look more generic.

Coming to the heart of the matter, the Ultraviolette F77 comes with a 25kW electric motor. This powertrain makes a peak power of 34.7 bhp and 90 Nm of torque. Additionally, the 0-60 kmph sprint takes just 2.9 seconds. We kid you not! Meanwhile, the top speed is limited to 140 kmph. The company also claims that the F77 can easily do 200 km per charge which also takes care of the range anxiety factor. However, the real riding range is yet to be tested by us.

EVs are known for technological advancements and the F77 is no exception either. It comes with sci-fi tech like remote diagnostics, over-the-air (OTA) upgrades, regenerative braking, multiple ride modes, bike tracking, ride diagnostics, etc. The launch price is still not unveiled but we expect it to be staged somewhere between Rs 3-3.5 lakh which will make it the most expensive electric motorcycle in India.

The test rides will commence from the first week of September 2022. According to the company, it has already received more than 65,000 pre-orders globally. Know more about the Ultraviolette F77 on their official website.

MINI has finally showcased the Aceman EV Crossover concept. This new MINI features the brand’s latest design language and uses recycled (hence green) parts for interior design. This one features radical styling that is set to be followed by all the upcoming MINI cars soon. The Aceman EV also uses recycled material for interior construction that should go down well with environmental conscious audience. It will make its first public appearance on August 23 in Germany and will go on sale internationally next year.

Also Read – JK Tyre Launches New EV Specific Radial Tyres

MINI Aceman EV Crossover Details

MINI Aceman EV has definitely become eye candy for worldwide auto enthusiasts. The new car from the brand is based on a new styling that is retro-modern. The simplistic design language is called ‘Charismatic Simplicity’ and MINI has plans to introduce this into all of its upcoming cars in the future.

“The design language of the MINI Concept Aceman heralds the beginning of a new design era for MINI,” explains Adrian van Hooydonk, Head of BMW Group Design. In our opinion, Design themes typical of the MINI brand have always been unique. Hooydonk goes on to say. “We are returning to these now, but at the same time consistently combining them innovative technology. With this approach we are redeveloping the MINI design icons, with all their analogue strengths, for the digital future”.

The attractive design is inspired by the 1959 original MINI Cooper hatchback. The main highlights of its design contained minimalism, sustainability, and the use of the latest technology altogether. The dimensions of the Aceman resemble to that of the MINI Countryman and the MINI hatchback itself. As per the company, it is 4050 mm long, 1990 mm wide and 1590mm tall. The overall size hints that the Aceman will be positioned in between both cars (countryman and hatchback

On the exterior, the new LED headlights look cool and simple. The use of butch body lines helps achieve an SUV or crossover stance. On the side, the use of futuristic alloy wheels with diamond-cut and looks fantastic. The rear end is equipped with the iconic British flag-inspired LED taillights.

Use of Recycled Material

Inside the cabin, the Aceman delivers its inspiration from the old-gen MINIs from the 60s. The dashboard is minimal and simplistically designed as well. There is a single circular OLED touchscreen that acts as most of the HVAC control unit as well as the infotainment unit. The steering wheel is two-spoke.

MINI claims that it has used recycled material to make the interior bits. The dashboard, for example, uses recycled sustainable material for its construction. This hints that the Aceman EV is completely inclined towards providing green mobility.

MINI has not declared any details about the electric powertrain of the Aceman till now. We suspect that all of the details will be out on the official public debut on August 23 in Germany. Will it make to India? Yes, given how luxury brands are now entering the e-space in the country.

Also Read – Volvo C40 Recharge Coupe Electric SUV To Break Cover In 2023

It comes with a riding range of 137km and carry load of upto 320 kg!

Silence is a well known UK-based electric vehicle maker. Their latest global launch is the S01 Plus e-scooter and this one has been making a lot waves internationally. Its launch price is 6,795 pounds which translates to about INR Rs 6.5 lakh in Indian currency. Apart from a bigger battery, there are more updates to the S01.

Also Read – MG ZS EV Excite Variant To Come With Bigger 50.3 kWh Battery

Design & Features

Based on the design of the international ICE-powered scooters, the Silence S01 + has a strong road presence, thanks to generous dimensions. The Plus features nearly the same design elements as that of the standard S01 model. The upright and tall front design has a long windshield, a round LED headlight, and wide handlebar. This gives it a maxi scooter look.

Alloy wheels come as standard on the Silence S01 while the chunky telescopic suspension at the front provides good ride-handling balance. Silence has designed the S01+ for B2C (business to consumer) operations and also for the last mile delivery operators. This is the reason why it has a long footboard area along with a single wide and comfy seat. This surely helps riders to carry large items.

The other design elements include the petal disc brakes for enhanced control and the battery pack placement with an electric ring cover box. This e-ring lights up red during the operation and looks pretty cool. It also comes with a touchscreen infotainment panel that displays all on-the-go features like the range to empty, etc.

Also Read – Mahindra Electric SUVs To Debut On 15th August

Engine & Specifications

What has changed on the Plus electric scooter variant is the introduction of a bigger battery. The now 7.5 kWh battery has enabled the e-scooter to perform more. The riding range is now claimed to be 137 km/charge. Additionally, the company claims a top speed of 109 kmph as well. The battery can be charged within 6-8 hrs with a standard 240V socket.

The ‘Waving Discs’ or the petal discs have enabled more effective braking on the S01+. The S01+ also comes with 4 various riding modes. These modes are to help the rider in the various riding environments. These include – Eco, City, Sport, and Reverse Gear.

India Launch & Rivals

India is one of the most rapidly growing EV markets around the globe. The rate of growth is so strong that none of the EV makers plan to leave India in their future plans. Hence, the Silence is also expected to make an India entry. The price, however, will not be so high due to local production. We expect that its launch of 6 products will not happen anytime before 2023.

The main rivals of the S01+ in India are – Ather 450X, Ola S1 Pro, TVS iQube, & Bajaj Chetak.