In the upcoming years, Mahindra intends to introduce a series of new electric vehicles (EVs) to the market, with the XUV700 Electric leading the way. This move is a part of Mahindra's strategy to focus on the premium EV sector, while Tata Motors continues to lead in the entry-level EV segment. When it comes to market, the XUV700 Electric, likely to be sold under the name XUV.e8, will rival upcoming models such as the Tata Harrier EV and Safari EV.
The body design of the XUV700 Electric will largely replicate that of the current internal combustion engine (ICE)-based XUV700. This similarity is meant to decrease both production and development costs. However, the front view of the XUV.e8 will be significantly different. Outstanding features will include a full-length LED light bar extending vertically to the bumper and a closed-off grille. The XUV.e8 is also projected to feature a completely new headlamp design.
Other modifications in design specific to the electric model will be a new set of sporty and aerodynamic alloy wheels.The rear of the XUV.e8 will boast changes such as a new full-width LED light strip and a rejuvenated bumper. The silhouette, for the most part, will replicate the existing ICE model with some EV-specific badging, like the copper-coloured accents previously seen on the XUV400 EV. The Mahindra logo will follow the same design scheme. Additionally, Mahindra may offer exclusive colour options for the XUV700 Electric model.
In terms of dimensions, the XUV.e8 will be slightly larger but not considerably distinguishable from the ICE XUV700. With lengths, widths, and heights of 4,740 mm, 1,900 mm, and 1,760 mm respectively, the XUV.e8 will have a 2,762 mm wheelbase. The electric model indicates a minimal increase of 45 mm in length, 10 mm in width, and 5 mm in height when compared to the ICE model. The wheelbase is larger by only 7 mm.
While these marginal differences are unlikely to significantly affect the interior space, Mahindra does plan to focus on superior space utilization with the INGLO platform. Consequently, despite the marginal size differences, the XUV.e8 will provide a more spacious feel than the ICE model.
Further separating the XUV.e8 from the ICE model, several first-in-segment features are set to be incorporated. A major aspect will be the innovative triple integrated screen setup, which will cover nearly the total width of the dashboard. This will include the infotainment screen, the instrumentation, and a designated screen for the passenger upfront. Other notable features will include well-ventilated seats at both the front and rear, a panoramic sunroof, a luxury sound system, and an extensive series of ADAS features and connected car technology.
The performance specifications of the XUV.e8 are expected to surpass the existing ICE model. Lower-end models of the XUV.e8 will likely be equipped with a 60-kWH battery pack and a single motor featuring a front-wheel-drive (FWD) setup. The higher-end models, meanwhile, would come with an all-wheel-drive (AWD) setup and dual motors. The battery capacity for these models is expected to be 80 kWh. The electric model is slated to deliver a driving range of around 400 to 450 km, and both AC and DC fast-charging options will be offered for added convenience.
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Price Revisions:
Seiemmezzo 650 Retro Street: The price has been slashed by ₹2 lakh, now available at ₹4.99 lakh (ex-showroom).
Seiemmezzo 650 Scrambler: This model sees a price cut of ₹1.90 lakh, now priced at ₹5.20 lakh (ex-showroom).
Specifications:
Both models are powered by a 649cc liquid-cooled parallel-twin engine, delivering 55.6hp and 54Nm of torque, paired with a six-speed gearbox. They share identical seat heights and suspension travel. The primary differences lie in styling and wheel configurations:
Retro Street: Features alloy wheels.
Scrambler: Equipped with wire-spoke wheels, a beak-style front mudguard, and a small tinted windscreen.
Brand Background:
Moto Morini, an Italian brand now owned by China's Zhongneng Vehicle Group, is represented in India by Adishwar Auto Ride India, which also manages brands like Benelli, Zontes, Keeway, and QJ Motor.
These price reductions position the Seiemmezzo 650 models as competitive options in the mid-range motorcycle segment, appealing to a broader audience.
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CFMOTO, the Chinese motorcycle manufacturer, is set to re-enter the Indian market in mid-2025, with the 450MT adventure bike expected to be the first model launched. The 450MT is anticipated to be priced competitively, potentially undercutting rivals like the Royal Enfield Himalayan and the KTM 390 Adventure.
Design and Features:
The CFMOTO 450MT is designed as an adventure touring motorcycle, featuring a parallel-twin engine. It boasts a 21-inch front and 18-inch rear wheel setup, providing enhanced off-road capabilities. The bike offers 200mm of suspension travel and a low 800mm seat height, making it accessible for a wide range of riders.
Market Strategy:
CFMOTO plans to import the 450MT as a Completely Knocked Down (CKD) unit, which may influence its pricing strategy in India. The company aims to make a strong impression with its re-entry into the Indian market, offering a range of motorcycles, including the 675cc three-cylinder models and the 700MT, in the future
Availability:
The 450MT is expected to be available in India by mid-2025, with CFMOTO finalizing discussions with a local partner for distribution. The company is keen to establish a strong presence in the Indian market with its upcoming lineup.
For more information on the CFMOTO 450MT and its upcoming launch in India, stay tuned to CarTopNews.com.
The updated model is set to launch first in China, with plans to expand to other markets, including India.
Design Enhancements:
The facelifted BYD Atto 3 features a more refined exterior, retaining the original lighting setup but introducing redesigned air intakes and a refreshed bumper. A new front camera has been added as part of the advanced ADAS suite. The side profile now includes sportier alloy wheels, and a new exterior color option offers a subtle and mature aesthetic. The D-pillars are partially blacked out, complementing the distinctive rippled finish. At the rear, a sportier roof spoiler with integrated dual brake lights and tail lamps featuring Chinese knot pattern elements have been added, reflecting traditional Chinese decorative art
Advanced ADAS Suite:
The facelifted Atto 3 is equipped with the enhanced "God’s Eye C (DiSus 100)" ADAS suite, comprising a three-camera block under the windshield, five long-range cameras, four surround-view cameras, five mm-wave radars, and twelve ultrasonic radars, totaling 29 sensors. This setup supports ten high-speed navigation scenarios and offers six intelligent parking modes.
Powertrain and Range:
The Atto 3 facelift continues with existing powertrain options, featuring a 60.5 kWh lithium iron phosphate (LFP) battery pack. The front-mounted electric motor delivers 150 kW (204 PS) and 310 Nm of torque. In India, the ARAI-certified range is 521 km. Charging from 0 to 80% takes approximately 50 minutes with a DC charger, while an AC charger requires about 9.5 to 10 hours
Interior Features:
While specific interior details have yet to be revealed, the facelifted Atto 3 is expected to offer a refreshed cabin with multiple new features, enhancing the overall driving experience.
The facelifted Atto 3 represents BYD's commitment to innovation, combining aesthetic enhancements with advanced safety features to meet the evolving demands of the electric vehicle market.
BYD, the Chinese automaker renowned for its electric vehicles, is set to expand its lineup by introducing a full-size pickup truck aimed at competing with established models like the Ford F-150, Chevrolet Silverado, and Toyota Tundra. This new vehicle is anticipated to enter the market around 2027.
Current Offerings:
Before this full-size pickup, BYD has ventured into the pickup segment with the Shark 6, a mid-to-large size plug-in hybrid pickup truck. Launched in Mexico, the Shark 6 features a 1.5-liter turbocharged engine paired with electric motors, delivering a combined output of 430 horsepower. This setup enables the Shark 6 to accelerate from 0 to 100 km/h in just 5.7 seconds.
Future Plans:
The forthcoming full-size pickup is expected to adopt a plug-in hybrid powertrain, similar to the Shark 6, rather than a fully electric setup. This approach aligns with BYD's strategy to offer versatile and powerful vehicles that cater to diverse market needs.
Market Strategy:
While the new pickup is unlikely to be available in the United States due to import tariffs, it is expected to be offered in other key markets, including Australia. In Australia, the vehicle will likely be built as a right-hand drive from the factory, potentially providing a cost advantage over competitors that require right-hand drive conversions.
BYD's entry into the full-size pickup market signifies a strategic move to broaden its global presence and challenge traditional automakers in the pickup segment. With a focus on hybrid technology and market-specific adaptations, BYD aims to offer a compelling alternative to established pickup trucks in various regions.
In January 2025, Yamaha Motor India reported a total of 55,545 units sold, comprising both motorcycles and scooters. This figure represents a significant 51.02% increase from the 36,780 units sold in December 2024, though it marks a 10.96% decline compared to the 62,384 units sold in January 2024.
Scooter Sales:
The Yamaha RayZR 125 emerged as the top-selling scooter, with 15,209 units sold in January 2025. This performance indicates a 26.25% year-over-year (YoY) growth and a 26.72% month-over-month (MoM) increase. The RayZR accounted for 27.38% of Yamaha's total sales during this period.
The Fascino 125 also contributed to Yamaha's scooter sales, with 8,261 units sold in January 2025. This represents a 1.04% YoY growth and a 50.89% MoM increase
Motorcycle Sales:
In the motorcycle segment, the FZ series achieved a cumulative sales figure of 11,399 units, accounting for 20.52% of Yamaha's total sales. This marks a 22.34% YoY decline but a 33.20% MoM increase.
The MT-15 secured the third position among Yamaha's best-selling models, with 10,640 units sold in January 2025. This represents a 29.65% YoY decline but a substantial 103.68% MoM growth
The YZF-R15, Yamaha's fully faired supersport motorcycle, sold 8,264 units in January 2025. This indicates a 14.59% YoY decline and a 93.58% MoM increase.
Premium Segment:
Yamaha's premium motorcycles, the R3 and MT-03, collectively sold only 2 units in January 2025. Notably, these models received a significant price reduction of up to ₹1.1 lakh on January 31, 2025, which is expected to positively influence their sales figures in the coming months.
Overall, Yamaha's sales performance in January 2025 reflects a strong recovery from the previous month, with notable growth in scooter sales and a resurgence in motorcycle sales, particularly in the MT-15 and YZF-R15 models.
The Ferrari 456 GT, introduced in 1992, marked a significant return to the front-engine V12 configuration for Ferrari's 2+2 grand tourers, a layout last seen in the 1985 412. Designed by Pininfarina under the direction of Pietro Camardella and Lorenzo Ramaciotti, the 456 GT features an aluminum body that exudes timeless elegance and aerodynamic efficiency.
Under the hood, the 456 GT is powered by a 5.5-liter 65° V12 engine, delivering 442 horsepower at 6,250 rpm and 406 lb-ft of torque at 4,500 rpm. This powertrain enables the vehicle to accelerate from 0 to 60 mph in approximately 4.9 seconds, reaching a top speed of 192 mph, making it one of the fastest four-seaters of its time.
The interior of the 456 GT is designed with a focus on luxury and comfort, featuring a sumptuous cabin that accommodates four passengers. High-quality materials and meticulous craftsmanship reflect Ferrari's commitment to providing an exceptional driving experience.
A notable example of this model is a 1997 Ferrari 456 GT finished in Verde Silverstone over a tan leather interior. This particular vehicle, equipped with a six-speed manual transmission, has covered 61,000 miles and is currently listed for £49,950
The Ferrari 456 GT remains a testament to the brand's engineering prowess and design excellence, offering a blend of performance, luxury, and timeless style that continues to captivate enthusiasts and collectors alike.
Powertrain Details
Both the Kiger and Triber are currently equipped with a 1.0-litre naturally aspirated petrol engine, delivering 72 PS and 96 Nm of torque. The Kiger also offers a 1.0-litre turbo-petrol option, producing 100 PS and up to 160 Nm. The anticipated CNG variants are expected to utilize the naturally aspirated engine, paired with a 5-speed manual transmission. While official specifications are yet to be disclosed, it's common for CNG powertrains to exhibit a slight reduction in power output compared to their petrol counterparts.
Feature Highlights
The MY2025 updates have made several features more accessible across lower variants. Both models now come equipped with an 8-inch touchscreen infotainment system supporting wireless Android Auto and Apple CarPlay, wireless phone charging, remote keyless entry, air filters, and powered ORVMs. The Kiger additionally offers cruise control and automatic climate control with rear vents.
Safety Features
Safety remains a priority, with both vehicles offering up to four airbags, ABS with EBD, a tyre pressure monitoring system, auto-dimming IRVM, reverse parking sensors, and hill start assist.
Pricing and Market Position
The Renault Kiger is priced between ₹6.1 lakh and ₹10.1 lakh, positioning it against competitors like the Maruti Brezza, Nissan Magnite, Tata Nexon, and Mahindra XUV300. The Triber, ranging from ₹6.1 lakh to ₹8.75 lakh, offers a unique proposition as a 7-seater, with indirect competition from models such as the Maruti Swift and Hyundai Grand i10 Nios.
The introduction of CNG variants aligns with Renault's strategy to provide more fuel-efficient and eco-friendly options to the Indian market. Further details regarding variant-specific features and official launch dates are awaited.
Pricing Overview
The kia new variants are competitively priced, with the HTE (O) 1.5 N/A Petrol MT starting at ₹11.13 lakh, and the HTK Plus (O) 1.5 Diesel AT priced at ₹17.22 lakh (ex-showroom, pan-India).
Variant Features
All three variants are available with a choice of a 1.5-liter naturally aspirated petrol engine or a 1.5-liter diesel engine, catering to diverse customer preferences.
With these new additions, Kia aims to offer a blend of affordability and premium features, enhancing the appeal of the Seltos in the competitive compact SUV market.