Ultraviolette Automotive has upped the ante with the F77 Mach 2, making improvements to what was already the fastest electric motorcycle in the country. This new iteration not only boasts enhanced styling, features, and performance but also comes at a more affordable price point. My review puts these claims to the test.
In 2019, Ultraviolette first introduced the F77, showcasing a bike that was both fast and innovative, featuring a removable battery pack among other attributes. After a few years of refinement, they launched the final, mass-production version in early 2023. While it was an improvement in terms of speed and ride enjoyment, it carried a hefty price tag. Additionally, the limited dealership networks hampered its sales potential.
Fast forward to 2024, and I find myself test-riding the enhanced Ultraviolette F77 Mach 2 against the picturesque backdrop of Hosur's rolling hills. This new version is not only faster and better equipped but also claims a longer range. As a motorcycle enthusiast with a 70km daily commute, this piqued my interest. So, how does it hold up? Let's dive in.
At first glance, you might think the Mach 2 looks identical to its predecessor—and you'd be right. Ultraviolette's philosophy is to not fix what's not broken. The bike retains its sharp, mass-forward design and streetfighter stance, with improvements made to the material quality. There's now a palette of nine new color options, including Supersonic Silver, Stellar White, Lighting Blue, Turbo Red, Afterburner Yellow, Stealth Grey, and Cosmic Grey. The standouts for me are the white, yellow, and light-gray schemes.
However, one pet peeve that persists is the wheel stripes, a trend that should have been left in the early 2000s. That aside, the overall material quality has been upgraded, particularly the aluminium charging port cover, which replaces the previous flimsy plastic.
In terms of ergonomics, the F77 Mach 2 continues to offer a streetfighter-style, committed stance similar to the outgoing model. However, it strikes a balance between a committed and upright riding posture. While you sit up high with a semi-sport footpeg position and a low-set handlebar, it might give you second thoughts for daily use. But rest assured, you'll get used to it within a day.
Moving on to the features, the F77 Mach 2 doesn't disappoint. Despite the incremental improvements over the previous model, there's plenty to talk about. Existing highlights include all-LED lighting, a 5-inch color TFT screen, reverse mode, digital document storage, auto on/off headlights, 4G-based connectivity features, and multiple ride modes.
The most notable addition is the hill-hold assist feature, which automatically applies the brakes when you release the lever and disengages when you squeeze it again. Additionally, the F77 Mach 2 now offers 10 levels of brake regeneration, up from the previous three, further enhancing its performance.
Ultraviolette has also revamped the instrument console’s UI, making it more intuitive. It now includes a G-meter-like readout displaying real-time throttle and brake-regen data. While the bike is already feature-rich, cruise control would have been a welcome addition given its price and riding stance, especially for longer rides.
Now let’s talk numbers. The Mach 2 features a 30kW electric motor delivering 40bhp and 100Nm of torque. This power output is uniform across both variants, with the only difference being the battery size and range. The base variant includes a 7.3kWh battery pack with a claimed 211km per charge. In contrast, the top Recon model holds a 10.3kWh battery allowing for a claimed 323km per charge.
The bike's acceleration has improved, with the ability to go from 0 to 60km/h in just 2.8 seconds and from 0 to 100km/h in 7.7 seconds. These may seem like marginal gains, but they contribute to a more refined overall package.
The Mach 2's torque is one of its standout features. When you open the throttle in ballistic mode, the bike surges forward with impressive force. It even boasts the capability to pull a 15,000kg payload. There's more low-end and mid-range power, making the bike more tractable at lower speeds, even in combat and stealth modes. This balancing act allows you to preserve range or opt for a relaxed ride when needed.
One of the most significant updates is the bike's brake regeneration feature, which now offers 10 levels. The highest setting mimics engine braking while recovering up to 30% of the total charge, making it more efficient than any other electric two-wheeler in India.
When it comes to handling, the F77 Mach 2 performs admirably. It feels heavy at a standstill and in traffic, but once you get moving, it is remarkably nimble and responsive. It handles well in various conditions, though it can get a bit unsettled over speed bumps and rough surfaces due to its weight. Overall, it remains a well-rounded package in terms of handling and performance.
In summary, the Ultraviolette F77 Mach 2 is a faster and more refined version of what was already the best electric motorcycle in the country. With a more affordable price point, it becomes an excellent choice for those looking for a fast, aesthetically pleasing, and semi-practical performance-oriented motorcycle for daily use. While its committed riding posture may not scream comfort, the claimed 323km range should alleviate any range anxiety. Furthermore, Ultraviolette plans to open 17 new dealerships across India soon, making it easier for prospective buyers.
So, if the F77’s previous price and limited dealer network held you back, now is the ideal time to get your hands on this impressive machine. The Ultraviolette F77 Mach 2 is not just cheaper but significantly better, too.
Nissan's best-selling Magnite has received a facelift, retaining its starting price of Rs 5.99 lakh. The updated model boasts subtle design changes, new features, and the same powerful engine options.
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KTM has officially launched the 2024 200 Duke in India, priced at Rs 2.03 lakh (ex-showroom, Delhi). This updated model demands a premium of Rs 4,000 over its predecessor.
The 2024 KTM 200 Duke Bike is priced at Rs 2.03 lakh (ex-showroom, Delhi), slightly higher than its predecessor (Rs 1.99 lakh). With its enhanced features, design, and functionality, this updated model promises a richer riding experience.
Kia India has officially unveiled its highly anticipated EV9, a three-row electric SUV, priced at ₹1.30 crore in the Indian market. Originally showcased as a concept at the Auto Expo 2023, this luxury vehicle boasts an impressive ARAI-certified range of 561 kilometers on a single charge.
The Kia EV9 exemplifies luxury and innovation in the electric vehicle sector, offering Indian consumers a high-end SUV option that combines performance, technology, and safety.
Jeep India has unveiled the Compass Anniversary Edition to commemorate eight years in the Indian market, priced at Rs 25.26 lakh (ex-showroom). This limited-edition model is designed for adventure-seekers and features exclusive accessories.
The Jeep Compass Anniversary Edition is a unique offering that combines adventure, design, and innovation. With its exclusive features and robust performance, this limited-edition model is perfect for Jeep enthusiasts in India.
Mahindra has launched the ZEO EV, a 4W electric pickup truck, priced at Rs 7.52 lakh (ex-showroom), marking its entry into the electric commercial vehicle segment. This innovative vehicle targets those seeking sustainable transport solutions, aligning with Mahindra's vision for a greener future.
Mahindra's recently launched Thar Roxx SUV has achieved an unprecedented milestone, garnering 176,218 bookings within a mere hour of availability. This overwhelming response has resulted in an extended waiting period for prospective owners.
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Kia Motors India has launched the 2024 Kia Carnival, a premium offering in India's luxury automotive market, priced at Rs 63.9 lakh (ex-showroom). This fourth-generation model embodies a perfect blend of luxury, space, and advanced features, creating a new era in luxury mobility.
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Jaguar Land Rover (JLR) has reaffirmed its dedication to the Halewood factory, with investments now surpassing a significant £500 million. Initially, back in 2022, the company laid out its vision for transitioning the factory to support electric vehicle (EV) production, and since then, it has shown substantial progress. Over the past 12 months, the company has dedicated an impressive 'one million hours' to construction, resulting in a 32,000-square-foot extension to the historic facility, which originally began as a car factory for the Ford Anglia in 1963.
This half-billion-pound investment includes an initial outlay of £250 million, primarily aimed at modifying the production line to accommodate JLR’s forthcoming Electric Modular Architecture (EMA) platform. This platform will support a new generation of medium-sized electric luxury SUVs. Though these future models remain officially unnamed, there is widespread speculation that the next generation of Range Rover Velar will be the first to roll off the new production line in 2025.
However, plans for Halewood to transform into an exclusively electric vehicle manufacturing facility have been postponed. Last month, JLR announced it would extend its investment in internal combustion engine (ICE) vehicles longer than previously planned. As a result, Halewood is now set to produce ICE, plug-in hybrid electric vehicles (PHEV), and battery electric vehicles (BEV) side by side, before eventually becoming the company's first all-electric production facility—though, notably, without a fixed timeline.
Looking ahead, JLR has earmarked an additional £250 million to fully realize its objectives for Halewood. Considerable advancements have already been made, including the installation of 750 autonomous robots, ADAS calibration rigs, and laser alignment technology to ensure perfect part fitment. In the pursuit of creating a 'factory of the future,' state-of-the-art cloud-based digital plant management systems have also been integrated.
These investments have expanded the length of the production line from 4km to 6km, accommodating new battery fitment processes. Additionally, seven-metre build stations have been installed to cater to the different proportions of EMA electric vehicles. Previously, the factory was mainly focused on the production of the current Land Rover Discovery Sport, highlighting the substantial scale of transformation JLR is undertaking.
Moreover, JLR has prioritized training, offering High Voltage Training to over 1,600 employees, and has constructed a new body shop capable of producing 500 vehicle bodies per day. The paint shop has also been modified to meet the higher demand for contrasting roofs.
Sustainability remains a core focus. Halewood plans to install 18,000 photovoltaic panels, projected to satisfy 10 percent of the facility’s energy needs. This move aligns with JLR’s broader goal of becoming a carbon net zero firm by 2039. Despite significant progress, the company acknowledges there is still much work ahead to meet this ambitious target but proudly asserts that they are moving in the right direction.
In summary, Jaguar Land Rover's continuous and exponential investments in Halewood underscore its commitment to transforming the factory into a state-of-the-art facility capable of producing a diverse range of vehicles. As it carefully balances ongoing ICE production with its ambitious EV goals, JLR is set to position Halewood at the forefront of automotive manufacturing innovation.
