The Chief Operating Officer (COO) of Microlino has opined that most automobiles on the roads today are simply too large for their intended use. He starkly affirmed the company's commitment to providing consumers with more compact and accessible alternatives instead. England-based Micro company recently released a production version of the Microlino Lite at the Geneva Motor Show. As a new addition to the electric microcar market, the Microlino Lite delivers a maximum speed of 45km/h (28mph), making it a driveable option for anyone possessing a moped license and aged 14 or above in select European nations. The expected leasing cost for the basic model is roughly €156 or $169 per month starting this summer.
The Microlino Lite is an attractive transportation solution for urban dwellers who are not yet ready to replace their traditional cars with e-bikes but are in search of a more user-friendly and easier-to-navigate option in densely populated city streets. Due to their compact size, around three microcars can be parked in the space required for an SUV parking. The lightweight construction reduces energy consumption significantly compared to regular electric vehicles. The microcars are a perfect fit for small-scale journeys including daily commuting, grocery shopping, dropping off children at school or taking your pet to a park.
The Microlino Lite's diminutive stature is the same as its predecessor—2.5m (8.2 feet) in length, 1.47m (4.8 feet) in width and 1.5m (4.9 feet) in height. Additionally, it weighs under 600kg (1,320 pounds). With its 6kW (9kW at peak) power, it falls into the L6e vehicle category. This means that anyone with an AM-class moped license in Europe can drive it.
The Microcar provides two options for the battery: a 5.5kWh battery that promises a 100km drive before requiring a recharge, and an 11kWh battery that provides a maximum distance of 177km. The charging time for the smaller battery pack is approximately two hours to reach 80% from zero, using a 2.2kW Type 2 charger, while the larger battery pack takes around four hours for the same charging level. The Microlino Lite is a compact, two-seater car fitted with upgraded features like a sunroof and a remarkably roomy 230-litre trunk.
The lease price for this model, offering a 5000km/year use for 48 months, starts at CHF 149 per month (about €156 or $169). This price is about twice that of the Swapfiets e-bike subscription but far less than that of the similarly featured Biro electric microcar, typically starting at €260 per month.
Assembled in Turin, Italy, this electric vehicle is offered in either blue or anthracite gray, with customization options including a basic or premium interior that features vegan leather seats, velour bench, side pockets, a Bluetooth speaker and a smartphone holder. Micro announced that it would begin accepting preorders for delivery in the early summer. Initially, the release of this vehicle is expected to be limited to Europe.
Despite Micro's immediate focus on capturing the European market, the company has not ruled out expansion to the USand Asia . Merlin Ouboter, the co-founder and CMO of Micro, indicated that the Microlino Lite is suitable for registration in the US as a Neighborhood Electric Vehicle (NEV) and plans to launch the first Microlinos in America by the end of 2024.
Model-Wise Performance
Nexon
The Nexon, including its EV variant, remained Tata's top-selling model with 15,349 units sold, reflecting a 6.63% year-on-year growth from 14,395 units in February 2024.
Curvv
The newly introduced Curvv registered sales of 3,483 units, contributing positively to Tata's portfolio.
Punch
The Punch, along with its EV version, experienced a 21.04% decline, with sales dropping to 14,559 units from 18,438 units in the previous year.
Tiago EV
The Tiago EV maintained steady performance, selling 6,954 units, a slight increase from 6,947 units in February 2024.
Tigor EV
The Tigor EV saw a 9.46% decrease, with 1,550 units sold compared to 1,712 units last year.
Altroz
The Altroz hatchback faced a significant decline of 64.89%, with sales plummeting to 1,604 units from 4,568 units in February 2024.
Safari and Harrier
Both the Safari and Harrier SUVs struggled, recording declines of 41.01% and 46.29%, respectively. Safari sales dropped to 1,562 units from 2,648 units, while Harrier decreased to 1,376 units from 2,562 units in the same period last year.
Month-on-Month Comparison
Compared to January 2025, Tata Motors saw a 3.41% decline in sales, down from 48,075 units. While models like the Curvv EV, Tiago EV, and Safari posted gains, others, including the Punch, Altroz, and Harrier, recorded declines.
Nexon
Sales remained nearly unchanged at 15,349 units, a slight decrease of 0.31% from 15,397 units in January 2025.
Curvv
The Curvv saw a 12.83% month-on-month increase, selling 3,483 units compared to 3,087 units in January.
Punch
The Punch recorded a 10.30% decline, falling from 16,231 units in January to 14,559 units in February.
Altroz
The Altroz hatchback experienced a 21.10% decline, with 1,604 units sold in February, down from 2,033 units in January.
Harrier
The Harrier SUV slipped by 7.53%, selling 1,376 units versus 1,488 units the previous month.
Tiago EV
The Tiago EV sales grew 2.16% month-on-month, reaching 6,954 units, up from 6,807 units in January.
Tigor EV
The Tigor EV recorded a 4.45% increase, with 1,550 units sold compared to 1,484 units the previous month.
Safari
The Safari SUV showed a slight improvement, growing 0.90% month-on-month, with 1,562 units sold versus 1,548 units in January.
Conclusion
Tata Motors faced challenges in February 2025, with notable declines in models like the Punch, Altroz, Safari, and Harrier. However, the consistent performance of the Nexon and the positive reception of the Curvv EV offer optimism for the company's future sales performance.
BYD has officially launched the facelifted Atto 3 in China, introducing updated styling, advanced tech, and improved safety features. The latest version of the popular electric SUV starts at CNY 1,16,000 (approximately ₹13.9 lakh), making it a compelling choice in the EV market.
Key Design Updates & New Features
The Atto 3 facelift retains its sleek, modern design while incorporating subtle enhancements for a refreshed look. Some of the notable updates include:
One of the standout features of the facelifted Atto 3 is the introduction of the ‘God’s Eye’ Advanced Driver Assistance System (ADAS). This system enhances safety and autonomous driving capabilities, including:
The Atto 3 facelift continues to be powered by BYD’s Blade Battery technology, offering a balance of efficiency, longevity, and safety. Key performance highlights include:
While the facelifted Atto 3 has been launched in China, BYD is expected to bring the updated version to India later this year. The current BYD Atto 3 is priced at ₹33.99 lakh (ex-showroom India), and the facelifted model could arrive with mild price revisions and additional features.
Conclusion
With its new-age technology, improved safety features, and premium design, the Atto 3 facelift strengthens BYD’s position in the global EV market. Stay tuned to CarTopNews for the latest updates on BYD’s India plans and upcoming electric vehicles!
The World’s Only BMW M3 Panel Van – A One-of-a-Kind Creation
Ever imagined a BMW M3 turned into a panel van? Well, someone actually built one, and it’s undoubtedly one of the most unique BMW conversions ever seen. This custom build combines the high-performance DNA of the M3 sedan with the practicality of a cargo-hauling panel van, making it a true automotive oddity.
A BMW M3 Like No Other
At first glance, this M3-based panel van looks like something straight out of BMW’s secret design lab, but it’s actually a one-off custom project. The transformation involved:
Sealing off the rear passenger windows, replacing them with solid panels.
Modifying the rear structure to enhance cargo space.
Retaining the aggressive M3 styling, including flared wheel arches and sporty bumpers.
Performance Remains Untouched
Despite the dramatic bodywork change, this BMW M3 panel van remains a powerhouse under the hood. It continues to sport the legendary 3.0L twin-turbo inline-six engine, pushing out:
503hp in Competition spec, delivering thrilling acceleration.
8-speed automatic transmission, ensuring lightning-fast shifts.
Rear-wheel or xDrive AWD options, maintaining the M3’s dynamic handling.
Why Build an M3 Panel Van?
The idea of an M3 panel van might seem bizarre, but it follows the tradition of high-performance cargo vehicles, like the legendary HSV Maloo Ute and Volvo 850 T5-R wagon. While BMW has never officially built a van version of the M3, this custom project proves that M power can be combined with practicality—at least in theory!
Will BMW Ever Make a Production Version?
BMW is unlikely to mass-produce an M3 panel van, but the concept does spark curiosity about more versatile, performance-oriented vehicles. With automakers exploring crossover EVs and utility-focused sports cars, who knows what the future might hold?
For now, this M3 panel van imposter remains a unique, head-turning custom build.
Stay tuned to CarTopNews for more exciting automotive stories and rare builds from around the world!
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Toyota launches the Hilux Black Edition in India at ₹37.90 lakh, featuring bold design upgrades while maintaining its rugged performance and legendary
Toyota has introduced the Hilux Black Edition in India, priced at ₹37.90 lakh (ex-showroom). This special edition of the rugged lifestyle pickup truck brings bold cosmetic enhancements while retaining the Hilux’s legendary performance and durability.
What’s New in the Hilux Black Edition?
The Black Edition stands out with its sleek all-black design elements, giving the pickup a more aggressive and premium look. Key updates include:
Under the hood, the Hilux Black Edition remains mechanically unchanged, powered by the reliable 2.8-litre turbo-diesel engine, producing:
The cabin of the Hilux Black Edition maintains its premium yet functional appeal, featuring:
Lexus has officially launched the 2025 LX 500d in India, with prices starting at ₹3 crore (ex-showroom). This luxury SUV, known for its commanding road presence and off-road prowess, now comes with enhanced features and an updated design. Bookings for the new LX 500d are now open, with deliveries expected to commence later this year.
Bold Design & Rugged Capability
The Lexus LX 500d continues to offer an unmistakable design, featuring the brand’s signature spindle grille, sleek LED headlights, and a muscular stance. Built on the robust TNGA-F platform, the LX 500d shares its underpinnings with the Toyota Land Cruiser 300, ensuring exceptional durability and off-road capability.
Powerful Diesel Engine & Performance
Under the hood, the 2025 Lexus LX 500d is powered by a 3.3-litre twin-turbo V6 diesel engine, delivering:
Step inside the LX 500d, and you're greeted with a blend of luxury and technology, including:
Priced at ₹3 crore (ex-showroom, India), the 2025 Lexus LX 500d is one of the most premium luxury SUVs available in the Indian market. Given its high demand and limited supply, bookings have officially begun, with deliveries expected to be scheduled based on customer priority.Stay tuned to CarTopNews for more updates on the latest luxury car launches in India!
Volvo has provided an initial glimpse of its upcoming EX60, the electric counterpart to the XC60 SUV, during the reveal event for the ES90 sedan Positioned between the compact EX40 and the larger EX90 in Volvo's electric vehicle lineup, the EX60 is set to debut internationally in 2026.
The EX60 will be the inaugural model built on Volvo's next-generation SPA3 platform, an evolution of the architecture underpinning the EX90. This scalable platform allows for the development of vehicles of various sizes using shared technology, enhancing production efficiency and reducing complexity.
A notable advancement in the EX60's construction is the use of "mega-casting" technology, enabling entire sections of the vehicle to be manufactured as single units. This approach decreases weight by 15-20% compared to traditional methods, improves structural rigidity, and accelerates production times, with each megacasted floor taking approximately 120 seconds to produce.
The EX60 is expected to feature a "structural" battery pack integrated into the vehicle's floor, enhancing energy density and driving dynamics.While specific battery capacities are yet to be confirmed, the EX60 aims to offer a range approaching 400 miles on a single charge, complemented by rapid charging capabilities similar to those of the EX90.
In terms of design, the EX60 is anticipated to incorporate elements from both the EX30 and EX90 models, such as Thor’s-hammer LED headlights, flush door handles, a closed-off grille, and aerodynamic alloy wheels. These features, combined with advanced safety and driver-assistance systems, position the EX60 as a strong competitor in the mid-size electric SUV market, rivaling models like the Audi Q6 e-tron, Porsche Macan Electric, and BMW's forthcoming Neue Klasse SUV.
Volvo India has announced plans to launch the EX90 and EX30 models in 2025, with considerations for local assembly of the EX30.While there is no official confirmation regarding the EX60's availability in the Indian market, its introduction could further expand Volvo's electric vehicle portfolio in the region.
Overall, the Volvo EX60 represents a significant step forward in the brand's commitment to electrification, offering a blend of innovative technology, sustainable manufacturing practices, and Scandinavian design.
Lack of Infrastructure: If a customer's residence or workplace lacks the necessary infrastructure for a private charger, they can forgo the installation.
Existing Compatible Charger: Customers who already own a charger that meets Mahindra's safety standards are not required to purchase a new one.
Multiple EVs in One Household: Families purchasing two or more Mahindra electric SUVs can share a single charging point instead of installing multiple chargers.
Previously, Mahindra required customers to buy company-certified chargers, priced at ₹50,000 for a 7.2 kW charger and ₹75,000 for an 11.2 kW charger. This policy change, influenced by customer feedback, offers greater flexibility in choosing charging solutions.
The revised policy applies to Mahindra's upcoming electric SUVs, the BE 6 and XUV 9e, with deliveries starting mid-March. Both models offer 59 kWh and 79 kWh battery options, with charging times of 6-8.7 hours for the 59 kWh battery and 8-11.7 hours for the 79 kWh battery, depending on the charger's capacity.
This move aligns with Mahindra's commitment to enhancing customer experience and promoting sustainable mobility
Volkswagen has unveiled the ID. Every1 Concept, a near-production preview of its most budget-friendly electric vehicle (EV) yet. Positioned as an entry-level electric hatchback, the ID. Every1 is based on the ID. 2all concept, bringing Volkswagen closer to offering an affordable EV for the masses.
Design & Platform
The ID. Every1 Concept is built on Volkswagen’s MEB Entry platform, a modified version of the brand’s MEB architecture specifically designed for compact electric vehicles. This platform enables cost-effective production while ensuring a balance between performance, range, and affordability.
While Volkswagen has not released final design details, the ID. Every1 Concept is expected to retain key styling cues from the ID. 2all, including a modern yet practical hatchback design, spacious interiors, and a focus on everyday usability.
Performance & Range
A Game-Changer for Volkswagen’s EV Lineup
Volkswagen has emphasized affordability as a key factor for the ID. Every1, with the production model expected to launch at a starting price of €25,000 (approximately ₹22-23 lakh). This price positioning makes it Volkswagen’s most accessible electric model, targeting budget-conscious buyers looking for a practical and efficient urban EV.
Expected Launch & Market Positioning
The final production version of the ID. Every1 is set to debut in 2026, marking a significant milestone in Volkswagen’s electrification strategy. It is expected to compete with other budget-friendly EVs from brands like Renault, Stellantis, and Tesla’s rumored compact EV.
With Volkswagen’s commitment to expanding its EV portfolio, the ID. Every1 could play a crucial role in driving EV adoption among mainstream buyers. Stay tuned to CarTopNews for more updates on Volkswagen’s upcoming electric vehicles!