CarBike360 Weekly Wrap-Up | That Mattered This Week (17th-22nd July): New Kia Seltos launched, Hyundai Car offers and many more

Welcome to CarBike360's Weekly Wrap-Up, where we bring you the most significant highlights and events from the automotive world that truly mattered from the 17th to the 22nd of July. Whether you're a car enthusiast, bike lover, or simply curious about the latest happenings in the industry, our comprehensive coverage has you covered.

This edition explores the hottest car and bike launches, cutting-edge electric vehicles, sustainability initiatives, and advancements in autonomous driving technology. We'll keep you informed on vehicle safety features, crash test ratings, and developments in accident prevention.

Join us for thrilling updates from the world of motorsports, exclusive interviews, and insights from automotive visionaries. Stay up-to-date with all things cars and bikes with CarBike360's Weekly Wrap-Up!

Why does India want ADAS, MG replied with solid logic

Vice President of MG Motor India, Gaurav Gupta, said Personal AI and segment-level (level 2) autonomous driving technologies powered by Astor will help MG Motor India take the lead. As part of a renewed commitment to ADAS technology, the company announced an upgraded model of the ZS EV with Level 2 autonomous driving capabilities. In 2023, it intends to sell 75,000–80,000 automobiles, 25% of which will be electric vehicles.

Kia India's Latest Seltos SUV Facelift Generates Massive Bookings within 24 Hours

With its most recent announcement regarding the all-new 2023 Seltos SUV facelift, Kia India has significantly increased its presence in the Indian automotive market. On July 4, 2023, just 24 hours after announcing the redesign, the corporation reported an amazing 13,424 bookings. This enormous response demonstrates the excitement and anticipation surrounding the new Seltos model.

Hyundai Unveils the Bold and Redesigned 2024 Santa Fe

The fifth-generation 2024 Santa Fe has been unveiled on the international market by Hyundai Motor Company, showcasing a significant overhaul. Since 2018, this is the first major redesign. Hyundai has not yet said if the new Santa Fe will be sold in India, though further information will be released in August. It's important to note that the model was withdrawn from the Indian market in 2017.

Range Rover Velar Bookings are Open in India and deliveries will start from September 2023

The eagerly awaited Range Rover Velar is now accepting reservations in India, according to Jaguar Land Rover (JLR). With two potential powertrain options, the new Velar will be offered in the Dynamic HSE configuration. The Velar competes against rivals like the Porsche Macan and Jaguar F Pace in the premium SUV market with its sophisticated design, cutting-edge technology, and potent performance.

Hyundai offers attractive discounts on select models for up to ₹ 1 lakh

During the month of July, Hyundai Motor is offering sizable discounts on a few of its models. For consumers who buy one of the qualifying models before the end of this month, the manufacturer is offering discounts of up to 1 lakh. 

Six vehicles are on the list, including the Grand i10 Nios, the i20, the i20 N Line, the Aura, the Alcazar, and the Kona EV. Notably, this discount programme does not apply to popular Hyundai vehicles like the Creta, Venue, Verna, Tucson, and Ioniq 5. 

2023 Porsche Cayenne and Cayenne Coupe Facelift: Check Price and Specs

The facelifted 2023 Porsche Cayenne and Cayenne Coupe have made their official debut in India. The redesigned range offers updated styling and improved amenities, with prices starting at 1.36 crore for the Cayenne SUV and 1.41 crore for the Cayenne Coupe (ex-showroom, India). India's order books were opened as early as April after these models were first launched to the world earlier this year. Deliveries are scheduled to start soon.

Hero MotoCorp Launches Xtreme 200S 4V Variant launch at the price of ₹ 1.41 Lakhs

The Xtreme 200S 4 Valve model, offered by Hero MotoCorp, costs 1.41 lakh (ex-showroom, Delhi) in the Indian market. With four-valve technology, this new motorcycle joins the recently released Xtreme 160R 4V and promises to be more powerful and have more modern amenities. 

The new four-valve version of the Xtreme 200S is slightly more expensive than the old two-valve variant, costing an additional 6,000 yen.

Maruti Suzuki Introduces AVAS Tech in Grand Vitara: A Step towards Pedestrian Safety

The Grand Vitara compact SUV features the Acoustic Vehicle Alerting System (AVAS), which was introduced by Maruti Suzuki, the top automaker in India. In order to solve safety concerns connected to the silent drive of such vehicles, AVAS is an essential pedestrian protection device that is frequently implemented in hybrid and electric vehicles.

Tata Group to Invest £4 Billion in Flagship Battery Factory for Jaguar Land Rover and Others

Tata Group has committed 4 billion pounds (about Rs 42,500 crore) to building a flagship battery manufacturing that will serve Jaguar Land Rover (JLR) and other manufacturers, which is a big move.

This giga plant will be strategically located in Bridgwater, Somerset, England, defeating a competing site in Spain. With the 40GWh plant, Tata Group will embark on a groundbreaking project and open its first manufacturing outside of India.

Maruti Suzuki Updates Brezza Line-Up: Manual Variants Lose Mild-Hybrid System

The modifications Maruti Suzuki made to the Brezza lineup show the company's dedication to improving its products in response to consumer preferences and market trends. Maruti wants to serve a wide spectrum of customers searching for an effective and feature-rich small SUV by making selective feature updates and saving mild-hybrid technology for the automatic variants.

Tata Motors Implements Price Hike Across SUV Line-Up up to ₹ 20,000

With the new prices taking effect on July 17, 2023, Tata Motors recently taken the decision to raise the prices of its SUV line-up by Rs 20,000. Last week, the carmaker announced a 0.6% price rise across its model lineup, which resulted in noticeable price increases for well-known models including the Nexon, Harrier, and Safari. Customers who reserved their vehicles before July 16 can breathe a sigh of relief because they won't be subject to the price increase.

Tata Altroz Gets a Premium Upgrade: Introducing XM and XM(S) Variants

The Altroz XM and XM(S), two new premium variants from Tata Motors, have been added to the roster of the Altroz hatchback. The new versions have a variety of appealing features, including an electric sunroof on the XM(S) trim, with the intention of providing customers with greater value and a wider range of options. 

2023 Kia Seltos Launched: Check Out the Prices & Features

The redesigned 2023 Kia Seltos has been released in India, with prices starting at Rs. 10.90 lakh (ex-showroom, Delhi) and Rs. 20 lakh (on-road). The revised Seltos now has a fresh exterior as well as a number of high-quality features, smarter hardware, and Level 2 Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS).

Hero MotoCorp has launched the updated 2024 Xtreme 160R 4V, priced at ₹1.38 lakh (ex-showroom). The new Xtreme 160R 4V includes significant upgrades such as dual-channel ABS, a redesigned pillion seat, new paint schemes, and enhanced safety features. The 160cc segment has always been lucrative, and the 2024 Xtreme 160R 4V aims to strike a balance between style and substance for buyers.

In June 2023, Hero MotoCorp introduced the Xtreme 160R with features like USD telescopic front forks, a 4V head, and an oil-cooling setup. Despite these improvements, enthusiasts called for dual-channel ABS, which has now been included in the 2024 Xtreme 160R 4V. The new Xtreme 160R 4V also features a refreshed design, with a new Kevlar Brown color option, in addition to the existing Neon Shooting Star and Stealth Black.

The most noticeable design update is the new black and bronze colorway with striking decals. The split seat design has been replaced with a single-piece seat for enhanced comfort. Additionally, there is a new LED tail light that looks more modern and premium. The 2024 model of the Xtreme 160R 4V also introduces a first-in-segment panic brake alert system that enhances safety by flashing the rear lights during emergency braking.

New Features of the 2024 Hero Xtreme 160R 4V:

Dual-channel ABS: Increases safety and completes the bike's feature set.
Panic Brake Alert: First-in-segment feature that flashes rear lights under emergency braking.
Drag Race Timer: New feature for recording 0-60 km/h sprints.
  
The powertrain remains the same, with a 163.2cc single-cylinder oil-cooled SOHC 4V engine delivering 16.6 bhp and 14.6 Nm of torque, paired with a 5-speed gearbox. The primary competitors for the 2024 Hero Xtreme 160R 4V include the TVS Apache RTR 160 4V and Honda Hornet 2.0.

Ather Energy has made a significant entry into the family scooter market with the launch of the Rizta in India. This new electric scooter is available with two battery pack options: 2.9 kWh and 3.7 kWh. While the deliveries of the 2.9 kWh variant have already begun, there was a delay with the 3.7 kWh version. However, Ather has announced that deliveries of the Rizta 3.7 kWh will start by the end of July.

Impressive Range and Charging

The 3.7 kWh battery pack offers a claimed range of up to 159 km. However, in real-world conditions, the range is expected to be around 125 km on a single charge. The scooter comes with Ather's Duo 700W charger, which charges the battery from 0 to 80 percent in 4 hours, and from 0 to 100 percent in 6 hours and 10 minutes. Using the Ather Grid, you can recharge 15 km of range in just 10 minutes. The battery pack is also IP67 dust and water-resistant, ensuring durability in various conditions.

Powerful Motor and Performance

The Rizta is powered by the same electric motor found in the 450X model. This motor delivers a peak power of 4.3 kW and a peak torque output of 22 Nm. It can accelerate from 0 to 40 kmph in just 4.7 seconds. The electric motor is IP66 resistant, providing additional protection against dust and water.

Advanced Features

The 3.7 kWh version of the Rizta comes with several advanced features. One of the highlights is the Magic Twist feature, which allows the rider to increase brake regeneration by twisting the throttle in the opposite direction. Additionally, the scooter includes Skid Control, which functions as a traction control system to enhance safety.

The Rizta S base model is equipped with the DeepView LCD instrument console from the 450S, which includes turn-by-turn navigation. In contrast, the Z variants feature a TFT screen with Google Maps navigation. It's worth noting that the S trim comes with a standard seat and does not include a pillion backrest, while the Z trim offers a standard pillion backrest and a premium seat.

With these features and options, Ather Energy aims to cater to a wide range of customers looking for a reliable and advanced electric scooter. Many eagerly anticipate the upcoming deliveries of the 3.7 kWh version.

Maruti Suzuki has unveiled its latest offering in the hatchback segment, the Ignis Radiance Edition, with prices starting at Rs 5.49 lakh. The Ignis Radiance edition comes as part of the company's strategy to revitalize sales in the mass market segment, which has experienced a slowdown recently.

The Ignis Radiance Edition brings cosmetic enhancements to the popular hatchback, with variations based on the trim level:

• Entry-level Sigma trim: Priced Rs 35,000 lower than the standard model, it includes wheel covers for 15-inch steel wheels, door visors, and chrome accents.
• Higher-spec Zeta and top-spec Alpha trims: Also priced Rs 35,000 lower, these variants feature new seat covers, black cushions, door cladding, and door visors.

Notably, the mid-spec Delta variant is not available in the Radiance Edition line-up.

The Ignis Radiance Edition retains the same mechanical specifications as the standard model. It is powered by an 83hp, 1.2-litre petrol engine, offering both manual and AMT gearbox options to cater to diverse driver preferences.

In the competitive hatchback market, the Ignis Radiance Edition faces off against rivals such as the Hyundai Grand i10 Nios and Citroen C3. It also competes with other Maruti Suzuki models like the Wagon R, Swift, and Baleno.

With its attractive pricing and added features, the Ignis Radiance Edition aims to appeal to budget-conscious buyers looking for a refreshed look in the small car segment. The introduction of this special edition model demonstrates Maruti Suzuki's efforts to maintain its strong position in the Indian automotive market.

Key Highlights:

• Total turnover reaches Rs. 6.14 lakh crore (USD 74.1 billion)

• 9.8% growth over the previous year

• Robust performance in both domestic and export markets

• Sales to OEMs Boosted by Increased Vehicle Production

In FY 2023-24, sales of auto components to Original Equipment Manufacturers (OEMs) in India surged by 8.9%, reaching Rs. 5.18 lakh crore (USD 62.4 billion). This growth was driven by the increased production of vehicles, higher consumption of value-added components, and a market shift towards larger and more powerful vehicles.

Export Performance

Exports of auto components grew by 5.5%, totaling Rs. 21.2 billion (USD) in 2023-24, compared to USD 20.1 billion in the previous year. Key markets included North America, which accounted for 32% of exports, showing a growth of 4.5%. Europe and Asia followed, with Europe growing by 12% and Asia remaining flat. The primary export items were drive transmission & steering, engine components, body & chassis, and suspension & braking systems.

Import Trends

Imports of auto components also saw an increase, rising by 3.0% to USD 20.9 billion from USD 20.3 billion in the previous year. Asia was the largest supplier, accounting for 66% of imports, followed by Europe and North America at 26% and 8%, respectively. Key import items included engine components, body & chassis, suspension & braking systems, and drive transmission & steering.

Aftermarket Growth

The aftermarket sector experienced a significant boost due to the increased movement of vehicles and higher demand for used vehicles. The turnover in this segment reached Rs. 93,886 crore (USD 11.3 billion) in FY 2023-24, up from Rs. 85,333 crore (USD 10.6 billion) in the previous year. This growth was attributed to enhanced e-commerce penetration and the sector's gradual evolution into a more organized structure.

Industry Outlook

Vinnie Mehta, Director General of ACMA, highlighted the positive impact of stable vehicle production and the robust aftermarket on the industry's growth. Shraddha Suri Marwah, President of ACMA and CMD of Subros, emphasized the contribution of higher value addition from component makers and the growth in auto component exports despite global challenges. The industry remains optimistic for FY 2025, expecting continued growth supported by strong macro-economic indicators, government policies, and an anticipated over 7% growth in Indian GDP.

Carbike360 Says

The Indian auto component industry has shown remarkable resilience and growth in FY 2023-24, driven by robust vehicle production, strong export performance, and a thriving aftermarket sector. The outlook for the coming year remains positive, with expectations of sustained growth and further industry consolidation.

Renault has introduced the all-new Duster in Turkey, marking its global debut. The Turkish plant serves as the primary production hub for the new Renault Duster. The new Duster showcases slight styling variations compared to its Dacia counterpart, particularly in the front fascia, featuring a unique radiator grille and bold 'RENAULT' lettering replacing the rhombus logo.

Key features of the new Renault Duster include:

• Length: 4,343 mm
• Wheelbase: 2,658 mm
• Ground clearance: 209 to 217 mm

The Duster SUV is available in two trim levels: Evolution and Techno. Standard features include:

• 17-inch wheels (18-inch optional)
• LED lights
• 10.1-inch touchscreen infotainment system
• 7-inch digital instrument cluster
• Comprehensive safety package

The new Duster offers three powertrain options:

1. 1.0 TCe LPG dual-fuel engine (100 hp)
2. Full hybrid E-Tech powertrain (145 hp)
3. Mild hybrid setup with 1.2 TCe turbo petrol engine (130 hp)

Pricing for the new Renault Duster in Turkey starts at 1,249,000 Liras (approximately Rs 32 lakh) for the base LPG variant. The E-Tech hybrid range begins at 1,530,000 Liras (around Rs 39 lakh), while the mild hybrid all-wheel drive version starts at 1,580,000 Liras (about Rs 40 lakh).

The India launch of the new-gen Duster is anticipated in 2025. However, the Indian version may differ slightly from the international model in terms of styling and powertrain options. Upon its arrival, the Renault Duster 2024 will compete in the popular compact SUV segment in India.

Kia India is enhancing its flexible mobility solutions by adding the EV6 to its popular ‘Kia Lease’ program. This follows the program's successful debut, which has already gained considerable traction within just two months.

Exclusive Lease Plan for Key Professionals

The lease plan for the Kia EV6 is available at a special rate of INR 1.29 Lakhs per month. This comprehensive package includes insurance, maintenance, pick-up and drop services, scheduled and unscheduled services, and 24/7 roadside assistance (RSA).

The EV6 lease program is exclusively offered to:

• Doctors: Registered with the Indian Medical Association (IMA) or a state medical association, and heads of registered medical institutions, hospitals, or clinics.

• Chartered Accountants: Registered with the Institute of Chartered Accountants of India (ICAI) and heads of CA firms or ICAI members.

• Self-employed Professionals: Including a select group of corporates.

Impressive Features of the EV6

The Kia EV6 stands out with its sleek and modern design, impressive performance, and range. It offers a remarkable driving range of up to 708 km and supports fast charging from 0 to 80% in just 18 minutes using a 350kW charger. The vehicle also delivers sporty performance, accelerating from 0 to 100 km/h in just 5.2 seconds.

Safety is a top priority with the EV6, which comes equipped with 8 airbags, an ADAS Level 2 suite, and other advanced safety features such as Electronic Stability Control (ESC), blind spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, and a 360-degree camera system.

Kia's Commitment to Sustainable Mobility

Mr. Myung-Sik Sohn, Chief Sales Officer (CSO), Kia India, commented, “The Kia Lease program has seen significant success in Metro and Tier I cities. Adding the EV6 highlights our dedication to meeting customer demands and providing advanced technology along with sustainable mobility solutions. The positive feedback reassures us of the program's future potential and our goal to make our vehicles more accessible.”

About the Kia Lease Program

In partnership with ORIX Auto Infrastructure Services Limited, Kia India launched the Kia Lease program to offer a new ownership experience. The program is designed for those with extended mobility needs, providing lease terms from 24 to 60 months with various mileage options. Besides the EV6, the program offers lease plans for other Kia models such as the Sonet, Seltos, and Carens at INR 17,999, 23,999, and 24,999 per month, respectively.