Iconic South Korean auto maker, Hyundai, known for its high-end cars is eagerly preparing to enter the competitive electric vehicle market in India with its much-anticipated Creta EV. The electric version of the best-selling SUV, Creta, was recently seen once again undergoing road tests in India. The vehicle is being readied for full production, which is expected to commence in late 2024.
The electric version of the hugely popular Creta SUV offers a blend of modern-day luxury, supreme comfort, and futuristic technology. Most notably, the EV variant is expected to offer a significant mileage of up to 500 km on a single charge. This promises to provide prospective buyers with an efficient and eco-friendly alternative to regular fuel-based vehicles.
The design of the Hyundai Creta EV appears to be majorly dependent on the recently unveiled Creta facelift. Some key design elements include a split-headlamp setup, an LED light linking the Driven Daylight Running Lights (DRLs), and distinctive roof rails. A rear spoiler fitted with a high-mounted stop lamp completes the exterior design, as shown in the spy images captured during the road test. There is also speculation that the vehicle will adopt aero-designed alloy wheels for improved performance and fuel efficiency.
An additional feature worth noting is the ADAS feature, which is visible in the spy images. This feature, enabled by sensors mounted above the bumper, indicates that the Creta EV will be equipped with ADAS technology, further enhancing its safety and performance. The vehicle's charging port will be conveniently situated on the front fender, as indicated by earlier images of the upcoming EV.
Moving inside, the Hyundai Creta EV is set to include a plethora of premium features. Expect a twin display setup, with a touchscreen infotainment system and an instrument panel. The front seats are expected to be ventilated and power-adjustable. Plus, a new two-spoke steering wheel with multiple control buttons is expected to enhance the vehicle's modern appeal.
The interiors will also boast a 360-degree surround camera, a Bose sound system, a panoramic sunroof, dual-zone climate control for superior comfort, rear AC vents for added convenience, an auto-dimming IRVM with telematics, and a wireless charger for effortless device charging. Furthermore, a drive selector mounted above the steering column enhances the sleek appeal of the center console.
Powering the Hyundai Creta EV is expected to be a 50-60 kWh battery pack. This substantial battery capacity is projected to offer a commendable range of up to 500 km per charge. It’s suggested that the electric SUV could come with various battery packs and range options, as per numerous reports, catering to different customer preferences and requirements.
With Hyundai aiming to push the envelope in terms of technology, design, and performance in the EV market with the Creta EV, Indian automobile enthusiasts have something exciting to look forward to in 2024.
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Design Highlights:
Key Features:
Variant Pricing: The Ebony Edition is approximately ₹15,000 more than the standard AX7 and AX7 L variants.
Safety Update:
Rear Seat Belt Reminders: All Mahindra XUV700 variants now come standard with rear seat belt reminders, enhancing passenger safety.
The XUV700 Ebony Limited Edition is now available for bookings, offering customers a unique blend of style and performance.
Mercedes-Benz has unveiled the 2025 CLA, introducing both electric and hybrid variants to its lineup. This move signifies a shift from developing separate electric models to integrating diverse powertrains within a single model range.
Electric Variant:
Porsche is working on an all-new SUV that will be available with both petrol and hybrid powertrains, expanding its portfolio beyond its existing electric and internal combustion engine (ICE) offerings. This upcoming model is expected to provide customers with a blend of performance, efficiency, and adaptability to evolving market trends.
New Model Strategy and Market Positioning
Engine Specifications:
New Turbocharged Engine: The foundation of this hybrid system is a newly developed 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine, internally designated as the G20E. This engine is engineered to support both plug-in hybrid and mild-hybrid configurations.
Compact Design: Featuring a shorter piston stroke and lightweight construction, the Toyota G20E engine is optimized for hybrid integration without significantly increasing the vehicle's weight.
Performance Expectations:
Power Output: In standard road versions, the G20E engine is anticipated to produce over 400 horsepower and 500 Nm of torque. For motorsport applications, outputs exceeding 600 horsepower are projected.
Motorsport and Production Integration:
Versatile Application: The G20E engine is designed for both competitive motorsport and consumer vehicles, aligning with Toyota's strategy to enhance fuel efficiency and reduce emissions across its performance lineup.
Prototype Testing: The engine has been showcased in the mid-engined GR Yaris M Concept, indicating ongoing development and testing efforts.
Future Outlook:
By integrating hybrid technology into its GR sports cars, Toyota aims to balance high performance with environmental responsibility, ensuring compliance with stringent emission standards in various markets.
As development progresses, more detailed specifications and launch timelines for these hybrid-powered GR models are expected to be announced.
Aston Martin is set to introduce its latest flagship grand tourer, the 2025 Vanquish, to the Indian market on March 22.
This new model succeeds the DBS Superleggera and positions itself as a direct competitor to the Ferrari 12Cilindri.
Performance and Powertrain:
At the heart of the Vanquish lies a formidable 5.2-litre twin-turbocharged V12 engine, delivering an impressive 835 horsepower and 1,000 Nm of torque. Paired with an 8-speed automatic transmission that channels power to the rear wheels, the Vanquish accelerates from 0 to 100 km/h in a swift 3.2 seconds and reaches a top speed of 345 km/h.
Design and Features:
Exterior:
The 2025 Aston Martin Vanquish is anticipated to be priced above ₹6 crore (ex-showroom) in India, excluding optional features. This pricing positions it as a premium offering in the luxury sports car segment.
With its blend of performance, luxury, and cutting-edge technology, the Vanquish aims to set new benchmarks in the Indian automotive landscape.
Tesla is advancing its plans to enter the Indian market by submitting homologation applications for its Model 3 and Model Y electric vehicles (EVs). This crucial step ensures that the vehicles comply with India's regulatory standards before their official launch.
Progress Towards Indian Market Entry:
The Indian government is considering reducing import duties on specific EVs from the previous range of 70%–110% to 15%. This reduction aims to encourage foreign manufacturers like Tesla to enter the Indian market. However, to benefit from these concessions, manufacturers are required to commit to domestic production by investing at least $500 million within three years.
Implications for the Indian EV Market:
Tesla's potential entry is poised to invigorate the Indian EV sector, offering consumers advanced electric mobility options. The Model 3 and Model Y are expected to appeal to a broad audience, aligning with India's push towards sustainable transportation solutions.
As Tesla progresses through the homologation and certification stages, further details regarding the official launch dates and vehicle specifications tailored for the Indian market are anticipated.
Design and Dimensions:
Despite the heavy camouflage, the Tata Sierra's distinctive boxy silhouette is reminiscent of the original model. When observed next to the Hyundai Creta, the Sierra's larger dimensions are evident, suggesting a more spacious interior and commanding road presence. The test vehicle was equipped with alloy wheels, indicating a focus on both style and functionality.
Powertrain Options:
The upcoming Tata Sierra is expected to offer both internal combustion engine (ICE) and electric vehicle (EV) variants:
ICE Version: Anticipated to feature a 1.5-litre turbo-petrol engine delivering 168bhp and 280Nm of torque. Additionally, a 2.0-litre diesel engine, currently powering the Harrier and Safari models, may be available, producing 168bhp and 350Nm of torque.
EV Version: Set to utilize Tata's Gen2 EV platform with the acti.ev architecture, the Sierra EV is expected to debut later this year, aligning with Tata's commitment to sustainable mobility.
Market Positioning:
The Tata Sierra aims to blend nostalgic design elements with modern features, targeting consumers seeking a robust and versatile SUV experience. Its availability in both ICE and EV formats reflects Tata Motors' strategy to cater to a diverse customer base in the evolving automotive landscape.
As testing progresses, more details regarding the Tata Sierra's specifications, features, and launch timeline are anticipated, generating excitement among automotive enthusiasts and potential buyers alike.
