The initial design flaunts a distinctively flat-faced structure that is reminiscent more of the family-friendly TVS iQube than Ather’s sportier 450 line. The potential design of the Rizta also suggests a fairly broad floorboard, coupled with the presence of what appears to be 12-inch wheels on both ends. An immediate stand-out feature of the teased design is the rather elongated seat which implies a substantial emphasis on comfort and a spacious design.
Ather has expressed that they will be advancing significantly in the areas of comfort and security with the advent of Rizta. The silhouette that was teased recently has an uncanny resemblance to the spy shots of the scooter that surfaced online a few months ago. The leaked images validate the earlier assumption about the presence of a mid-mounted motor in the Rizta, unlike a hub motor. Some of the other design elements that have been hinted at include a horizontal bar-shaped headlight and tail lamp, an evidently chunky rear handle, and slightly understated mirrors when compared to the 450 line-up.
The official unveiling of the Rizta is planned for the forthcoming Community Day 2024 event organized by Ather. The company has filed for the Rishta name trademark and anticipates that the scooter will be available for delivery within 6 months. This indicates that the official launch of the e-scooter is in the near future. Once released, it is likely to be positioned in competition with scooters like the TVS iQube (Rs 1.34 lakh-1.40 lakh) and the Bajaj Chetak Premium (Rs 1.35 lakh).
Ather's current range of bikes are priced between ₹ 1.54 - 1.69 lakh, and the highest priced model being ₹2.22 lakh. The Ather 450 Apex video review has already garnered over 4212 views in the past 16 days.
Electric scooter enthusiasts and potential buyers are waiting with bated breath for the official release of the Ather Rizta. Until then, they can explore the wide range of Ather bikes available, with prices ranging from ₹ 1.54 lakh to ₹2.22 lakh.
Tata Motors is set to significantly enhance India's electric vehicle (EV) charging infrastructure, aiming to more than double the number of charging points to 400,000 by 2027. This ambitious plan involves collaboration with Charge Point Operators (CPOs) and Oil Marketing Companies (OMCs) to establish an additional 30,000 public chargers accessible to all EV brands. The expansion will prioritize strategic locations, including highways, metropolitan areas, and emerging EV hubs.
Since 2019, Tata Motors has been actively deploying home and public charging solutions in partnership with Tata Group companies. In 2023, the company launched the 'Open Collaboration' framework, joining forces with various CPOs and OMCs to accelerate the development of a nationwide charging network. This initiative led to a rapid increase in public charging stations, surpassing 18,000 within 15 months. To date, Tata Motors has facilitated the installation of over 150,000 home chargers, 2,500 community chargers, and 750 dealership-based charging points across 200 cities.
In addition to expanding the charging network, Tata Motors is introducing 'TATA.ev Mega Chargers' in key cities and along major highways. These high-capacity chargers will be available to all EV users, with TATA.ev customers receiving priority access and preferential rates. The company has signed Memorandums of Understanding (MoUs) with leading CPOs, including Tata Power, ChargeZone, Statiq, and Zeon, to deploy 500 Mega Chargers within the next two years
Shailesh Chandra, Managing Director of Tata Motors Passenger Vehicles and Tata Passenger Electric Mobility, stated, "Through 'Open Collaboration 2.0,' we aim to grow the charging network to over 400,000 points in the next two years. This expansion will improve charging speed, reliability, and accessibility while fostering the growth of charge point operators."
This comprehensive strategy underscores Tata Motors' commitment to bolstering the EV ecosystem in India, addressing concerns about charging infrastructure, and encouraging more consumers to transition to electric mobility.
Mahindra has expanded its BE 6 electric SUV lineup with the introduction of the 'Pack One Above' variant, positioned just above the base model. Priced at ₹20.50 lakh (ex-showroom), this variant offers a blend of enhanced features and performance.
Key Features of the BE 6 Pack One Above:
Exterior:
The BE 6 Pack One Above is equipped with a 59 kWh battery pack powering a rear-axle-mounted electric motor. This setup delivers 231 PS of power and 380 Nm of torque, offering a claimed range of 557 km on a single charge. The drivetrain configuration is rear-wheel drive (RWD).
Comparison with Higher Variants:
While the Pack One Above variant offers a comprehensive set of features, it omits certain amenities available in higher trims, such as:
The Mahindra BE 6 Pack One Above is competitively priced at ₹20.50 lakh, with the overall BE 6 lineup ranging from ₹18.90 lakh to ₹26.90 lakh. In the Indian electric SUV market, it competes with models like the Hyundai Creta Electric, Tata Curvv EV, MG ZS EV, and the forthcoming Maruti e-Vitara.This new variant aims to provide consumers with a balanced mix of performance, comfort, and safety features, catering to those seeking a mid-tier electric SUV option.
The MG Windsor has swiftly become a standout in the electric vehicle (EV) market since its debut in September 2024, consistently achieving monthly sales exceeding 3,000 units. This impressive performance positions it as the top-selling EV in its segment.
Design and Aesthetics
The Windsor's design is a harmonious blend of various automotive styles, incorporating elements from MPVs, hatchbacks, and SUVs. Its clean lines and smooth surfaces suggest a design refined in a wind tunnel. The vehicle's mono-volume silhouette and substantial width of 1,850mm—surpassing even the MG Hector—grant it a commanding road presence. Features like 18-inch wheels, a horizontal daytime running lamp strip, an illuminated MG logo, and pop-out door handles enhance its modern aesthetic.
Interior Comfort and Features
Inside, the Windsor offers a minimalist yet functional design. The wide-opening doors and tall stance facilitate easy ingress and egress. The cabin is spacious, with ample headroom and legroom, and the flat floor design enhances comfort for rear passengers. The dashboard features a 10.25-inch touchscreen infotainment system and a 7-inch digital instrument cluster. Ambient lighting and quality materials contribute to a premium feel, though some areas could benefit from improved insulation to reduce road noise.
Performance and Driving Experience
The Windsor is powered by a 50.3kWh battery pack, delivering a claimed range of 350 km on a single charge. Its electric motor produces 143 PS and 250 Nm of torque, enabling smooth and responsive acceleration. The vehicle handles city driving adeptly, with a light steering feel and a tight turning radius. However, the ride can feel stiff over rough surfaces, and cabin insulation could be improved to enhance overall comfort.
Pricing and Conclusion
The MG Windsor is priced competitively, starting at ₹13.50 lakh and going up to ₹15.50 lakh. With the Battery as a Service (BaaS) scheme, the starting price is even more attractive at ₹9.99 lakh. This pricing strategy undercuts other EVs in the segment, such as the Tata Nexon EV and the Mahindra XUV400. Despite minor drawbacks like cabin insulation and ride stiffness, the Windsor's appealing design, spacious interior, and smooth driving experience make it a compelling choice for those seeking an affordable and practical electric vehicle.
In summary, MG has delivered a well-rounded EV with the Windsor, offering excellent value for money and addressing the needs of modern urban drivers.
In a remarkable demonstration of engineering prowess, Tata Motors' Curvv compact SUV has successfully towed a Boeing 737 aircraft weighing 48,000 kg. This feat was achieved using the Curvv's 1.2-liter Hyperion GDI petrol engine, which produces 125 PS of power and 225 Nm of torque. The event took place at the AIESL Hangar in Thiruvananthapuram, where the Curvv pulled the aircraft for a distance of 100 meters, setting a new record recognized by the India Book of Records.
This accomplishment underscores the structural integrity of the Curvv's ATLAS platform and highlights the capabilities of its Hyperion engine. Notably, this is the second instance of a Tata vehicle towing a Boeing 737; previously, the Tata Hexa, equipped with a 2.2-liter turbo diesel engine, performed a similar feat.
The Curvv's achievement is particularly impressive given its monocoque construction and smaller engine displacement compared to the Hexa's ladder-frame design and larger engine. This demonstration not only showcases Tata Motors' engineering excellence but also emphasizes the durability and performance potential of the Tata Curvv's design and powertrain.
MG Motor India is set to expand its premium footprint by establishing 14 'MG Select' dealerships across 13 major cities in the country. This strategic move aims to introduce and promote MG's luxury vehicle lineup to a broader audience.
Cities and Dealerships
The first phase of this expansion will see 'MG Select' dealerships in the following cities:
An all-electric roadster equipped with a 77 kWh battery pack, offering a WLTP-certified range of 443 km. Its dual-motor setup delivers 510 PS and 725 Nm, enabling acceleration from 0 to 100 km/h in just 3.2 seconds. The Cyberster is expected to be priced around ₹80 lakh, with a 'Battery as a Service' (BaaS) option potentially reducing the cost to approximately ₹50 lakh. Pre-bookings are currently open, with a launch anticipated in March 2025.
MG M9:
Known globally as the Mifa 9, this premium electric MPV boasts features like ventilated, heated, and massaging seats for both front and second-row passengers. It made its Indian debut at the Auto Expo 2025 and is expected to cater to the luxury MPV segment.
These initiatives reflect MG Motor India's commitment to enhancing its presence in the luxury automotive market by offering innovative and premium vehicles through a dedicated dealership network.
Mahindra has officially opened bookings for its much-anticipated electric SUVs, the BE 6 and XEV 9e, starting today, February 14, 2025, at 9 AM IST. Customers can reserve their preferred model and variant through the official Mahindra Electric SUV website.
Pricing and Variants
The BE 6 is available in five variants, while the XEV 9e comes in four. Both models offer a choice between 59 kWh and 79 kWh battery packs, with prices ranging from ₹18.90 lakh to ₹30.50 lakh (ex-showroom).
Delivery Timeline
Deliveries will commence in a phased manner:
Kia is gearing up to unveil three new electric vehicles at its upcoming EV Day on February 27, 2025, in Tarragona, Spain. The event will showcase the production-ready EV4 and PV5, along with the concept EV2, all embodying Kia's "Opposites United" design philosophy
EV4:
The kia EV4 is anticipated to debut in both sedan and hatchback configurations. Speculations suggest it will offer two battery options—58.3 kWh and 81.4 kWh—paired with a single front-wheel-drive electric motor producing 201 bhp and 283 Nm of torque. Design elements include a long, tapering bonnet, sloping rear roofline, vertically arranged LED headlights, and geometric alloy wheels.
Kia PV5:
The PV5 is an electric van featuring a neo-retro, futuristic design reminiscent of the VW ID. Buzz. It boasts a boxy silhouette with distinctive lighting elements. The interior is designed for flexibility, allowing for various seating configurations or expanded cargo space. It's expected to share powertrain options with the EV4 and may launch by late 2025 or early 2026.
Kia EV2 Concept:
The EV2 will be Kia's smallest global electric car to date, making its debut in concept form. Spy shots from South Korea reveal a sub-4-meter vehicle with vertically arranged split LED headlights. It's expected to feature smaller battery packs than the EV4 and may share components with the recently launched Syros ICE SUV in India.
These unveilings underscore Kia's commitment to expanding its electric vehicle lineup, catering to a diverse range of consumer preferences and needs.
Volkswagen's Performance:
Total Sales: Volkswagen sold 3,344 units in January 2025, marking a 2% YoY increase from 3,267 units in January 2024. However, this represented a 30% decrease from the 4,787 units sold in December 2024.
Model-wise Breakdown:
