CarBike360 Weekly Wrap-Up | That Mattered This Week (24th-30th July): Maruti, Tesla Recalls, Exeter waiting period, etc

Welcome to CarBike360Weekly Wrap-Up, your one-stop auto dose for all the important news and happenings in the automotive industry that really mattered from July 24 to July 30. We have a fascinating variety of news in this edition to keep you informed and entertained.

We have the information you require, from the most exciting new motorbike and automobile premieres to critical recalls that guarantee public safety. Discover the innovative technologies redefining the driving experience and keep up with the most recent investments influencing the direction of the automotive sector.

From developments in autonomous driving to electric automobiles, our team of experts provides you with insider information and analysis.

Automotive weekly News

S1 Electric Scooter is now discontinued after the launch of S1 Air by Ola Electric

With the beginning of bookings for its cheapest electric scooter, the S1 Air, Ola Electric has made headlines once more. The maker has opted to remove the S1 electric scooter from its lineup in conjunction with this launch.

Ola Electric will now only concentrate on marketing the S1 Air and S1 Pro in the intensely competitive Indian electric scooter industry as a result of this strategy change. The S1 community and pre-booked clients are the only ones who have access to the S1 Air's buying window at this time.

Hyundai Exter Price Hiked By Up To Rs 30,000 | Check out new prices

All variants of Hyundai's Exter micro-SUV now cost up to Rs 30,000 more than before. The price increase will take effect on August 1, 2023. On July 10, 2023, The Exter was introduced in India, with an initial pricing range of Rs 5.99 lakh to Rs 9.80 lakh (ex-showroom Delhi).

What happened to Cargo Ship that was carrying 3,000 cars

The coastguard said that a cargo ship carrying about 3,000 automobiles caught fire in the North Sea off the Dutch coast on Wednesday, killing one crew member and wounding several others.

Everything you need to know about new Expressway NH319B

Travel between Varanasi and Kolkata may soon undergo a revolutionary change thanks to a ground-breaking project that the National Highways Authority of India (NHAI) is about to launch. The NH319B, also known as the Varanasi-Kolkata Motorway, which is now under construction, is expected to drastically cut travel time and improve the driving experience between the two cities. 

Honda Monkey Lightning Edition: A Premium & Quirky 125cc bike

One of the most endearing and useful models among Honda's selection of compact bikes and scooters is the Monkey. In Japan and other nations, the Honda Monkey 125cc bike has a devoted following. Honda has introduced a new Lightning edition in Thailand, an aesthetic improvement over the basic Monkey model. It stands apart from the competition thanks to minor visual changes and a new colour palette.

Bookings are now open for the most affordable Ola scooter, the Ola S1 Air

The Ola S1 Air, Ola's most cheap electric scooter, is prepared to roll out on Indian roads. Existing customers and early reserve members can purchase the S1 Air from July 28 to July 30 at a discounted price of Rs 1,09,999, according to Ola Electric. From July 31, however, others can get the e-scooter for a reduced price of Rs. 1,19,999 (ex-showroom, Bangalore).

Tesla making it easier to buy electric cars, giving loans with 7-year terms

On the US order page, the business now offers a seven-year loan option in addition to the prior loan option of up to 72 months. The monthly cost for automobile buyers may be decreased by extending the loan period.

In November, Musk tweeted that increases in interest rates by central banks "raise the possibility of a major recession." The anticipated deflation prediction has not yet materialised.

In Tesla's earnings call on July 19, Musk stated, "We have to cut the price of the car when interest rates go up because the interest rate increases the price of the car. We must thus take action.

Maruti Suzuki Recalls Over 87,000 S-Presso and Eeco Units Over Steering Defect

The largest automaker in India, Maruti Suzuki, has announced a significant recall involving more than 87,000 units of the S-Presso and Eeco models. The manufacturer discovered a possible flaw in the design of the steering wheel, which prompted this large recall campaign.

Waiting period for Hyundai Exter extends to 1 year

After the successful Creta debut, Hyundai Motor India Limited has brought the Exter micro-SUV to the Indian market. This highly anticipated item has a waiting list that might be up to a year-long due to the great demand.

Tata Motors Takes the Lead in Easing Range Anxiety with Master App and Community Charging Facilities

The market leader in India for electric vehicles (EVs), Tata Motors, is making substantial efforts to hasten the uptake of electric mobility. With the upcoming release of its master app, Tata Motors hopes to allay users' concerns about running out of fuel by giving them access to real-time data on the locations and availability of charging stations.

Zero Electric Motorcycles to launch in India soon- confirms Hero Motocorp

The debut of the electric bike line from Zero Motorcycles in India has been officially announced by Hero MotoCorp. The business added that it would produce these goods in India using its knowledge of low-cost manufacturing and vast sales and service network.

Upcoming Toyota Badge Engineering: Taisor and Rumion Models on the Horizon

The Rumion MPV, which Toyota plans to introduce, is essentially a badge-engineered version of the well-liked Maruti Suzuki Ertiga. Given the absence of a Toyota MPV in the under 10 lakh price range, this decision makes sense.

Toyota wants to draw in a new consumer base to the company by setting the Rumion's price at about Rs. 8.8 lakh. Rumion will have a design that is quite similar to the Ertiga's inside and exterior, save from a little fascia change.

Tesla Recalls Model S, Model X, and Model Y Electric Cars Over Camera Misalignment Issues

A potential front-facing camera misalignment issue has led Tesla, the renowned maker of electric vehicles, to recall a number of Model S, Model X, and Model Y models.

Concerns about the effect on safety systems that heavily rely on camera technology, which affect 1,377 Tesla vehicles, led to the recall. In this research, we examine the specifics of the recall and how they affect Tesla's clients.

Toyota to unveil new Land Cruiser on 1st August

World Debut on August 1st at 9:20 p.m. EDT

Toyota fans, get ready as the all-new Toyota Land Cruiser is set to make its much-awaited world debut on August 1st. Mark your calendars for this momentous occasion.

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.