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Similar to the previous few weeks, a few high-end and a few mid-segment cars were introduced to the automotive market. Additionally, we have something this time for bike fans. A list of all the major car releases this week, including the Ampere Nexus and the BMW Fourth-Gen X3 SUV, is provided below.

BMW Fourth-Gen X3 SUV

The brand-new fourth-generation X3 SUV has been unveiled by BMW. In addition to having revised stylistic cues and longer and wider dimensions than the previous model, the new model is housed on a new platform. It features a revamped large-format kidney grille that is reminiscent of BMW’s flagship models, as well as new headlights with L-shaped daytime running lights. Newly designed heated sports seats, a flat-bottom steering wheel, and BMW’s curved display with iDrive 9 infotainment—first seen in the X1—are all features of the X3 SUV. Inside is also a display of BMW’s recently created woven fabric instrument panel.

The X3 lineup offers two different engine options: a 2.0-liter turbo-petrol with a mild hybrid system that provides 208 horsepower, and a 2.0-liter diesel model with a mild hybrid configuration that makes 197 horsepower. Moreover, a plug-in hybrid version combines an electric motor and a 2.0-liter turbo-petrol engine to provide 300 horsepower overall.

Citroen C3 Aircross

The limited edition C3 Aircross Dhoni-inspired model has been introduced in India by Citroen India. The C3 Aircross honours cricket player Mahendra Singh Dhoni, who serves as the company’s brand ambassador, as the name would imply. The least costly model is Rs 14.33 lakh (ex-showroom), while the base price is Rs 9.99 lakh (ex-showroom). There are three main variations of the new model available: You, Plus, and Max. It is also available in four monotone and six dual-tone hues. A 1.2-liter turbo-petrol engine paired with a 6-speed torque converter or 6-speed manual gearbox powers the C3 Aircross.

BMW 5 Series LWB

Official unveiling of the BMW 5 Series LWB has taken place in advance of its July 24 debut in India. Although the next 5 Series is larger than the outgoing generation, it retains the same exterior design and recognisable features. Consequently, the 3 Series is now classified as LWB instead of Gran Limousine. It is 5.17 metres longer and has a wheelbase of 3.09 metres, making it somewhat longer than the E-Class, which is 5.09 metres long and 3.09 metres wide. Key elements of the external appearance include a redesigned kidney grille, angular bumpers, and multi-spoke alloy wheels.

Ampere Nexus

Ampere Nexus, the newest model of electric scooter in the Greaves Cotton Ltd. family, was presented by Greaves Electric Mobility Pvt Ltd, the company’s e-mobility business. The new scooter is priced at ₹1,09,900 (ex-showroom) and comes in four colours: Steel Grey, Indian Red, Lunar White, and Zanskar Aqua. The Ampere Nexus has a strong drive mounted in the middle and provides 30% more battery life.

Kawasaki Versys-X 300

In India, the Kawasaki Versys—X 300 is available for ₹5.6 lakh. It has a tall windscreen, a step-up saddle, a side-slung exhaust, a semi-fairing, and a single-pod headlight up front. It also has a semi-digital instrument cluster and a front halogen lamp. It comes in two colour options: green and black.

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Business

Bookings for the BMW 5 Series LWB, which will launch as the largest model in its class, are now being accepted online and at dealerships throughout India.

A few days ago, BMW India unveiled the 5 Series LWB in India. It will face up against the Mercedes-Benz E-Class LWB, which has previously been seen and is scheduled for an update later this year. Making use of the positive response to the executive luxury cars, the 5 Series long wheelbase version makes its debut on the home market.

Since the vehicle may be reserved at authorised dealerships around the nation or through the brand’s website, BMW India Online Shop, client bookings have officially launched. On July 24, 2024, the new BMW 5 Series LWB’s price will be revealed. China already has the sedan available, and India is the first RHD market to receive it as well.

The dimensions of the BMW 5 Series LWB are 5,175 mm in length, 1,900 mm in width, 1,520 mm in height, and 3,105 mm in wheelbase length. It is the largest in its class, being 145 mm longer and having a longer wheelbase of 110 mm than the standard 5 Series. After the 3 Series Grand Limousine, it will be BMW’s second LWB offering in India.

With its illuminated front grille design, similar headlamps and tail lamps, an illuminated 5 emblem on the Hofmeister kink, a set of 18-inch Y-shaped alloy wheels, wraparound LED tail lamps, a sculpted rear bumper with integrated reflectors, and other features, the New BMW 5 Series maintains the same visual appeal as the standard model.

A 2.0L four-cylinder turbocharged gasoline and diesel engine with mild hybrid technology will be used under the hood. There will be a standard eight-speed automatic gearbox. The list of features includes automatic climate control, a redesigned three-spoke steering wheel, a 12.3-inch digital instrument dashboard, a 14.9-inch curved display with BMW iDrive 8.5, and more.

The iDrive rotary controller, drive modes, ventilated front seats, matrix LED headlights, 18-speaker Bowers & Wilkins audio system, six USB-C charging connections, an optional dual-screen back entertainment system, an ADAS suite of safety and driver-assistance technologies, and six USB-C charging ports are additional highlights.

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Business

For the first time, an electric SUV intended for the Indian market—Audi’s Q6 e-tron—has been observed there.

The car was observed going through testing near the Mumbai suburbs.
Anticipated for retail release in late 2024 or early 2025, this model is unlikely to see direct competition in India.

It will sit beneath the Q8 e-tron, which comes in basic and sportback versions in India.

Audi Q6 e-tron: Specifications and design features

The left-hand drive Audi Q6 e-tron that has been spotted in India has the same specs as its global equivalent.

The worldwide model has two electric motors with a combined power of 388 horsepower, powered by a 100kWh battery pack.

Separate headlights and daytime running lamps, tail lights with an animateable pattern that can be adjusted, and Audi’s signature understated style are among the design elements.

Differences in the Indian model of Audi Q6 e-tron

There are a few minor variances between the international and Indian versions of the Audi Q6 e-tron. These include different alloy wheel designs and a silver finish around the front fog lamps and on the rear bumper.

It is anticipated that the India-spec vehicle will be powered by an 83kWh battery pack. It is expected to have comparable charging capabilities to its international version despite this variation.

Right now, it’s unclear what the range is.

Audi Q6 e-tron’s positioning and expected price range

The Porsche Macan EV and the Audi Q6 e-tron both use the same PPE (Premium underpinnings Electric) underpinnings.

It will sit between the Volvo XC40 Recharge and BMW iX1 at one end of the size and pricing spectrum and the Audi Q8 e-tron, Mercedes EQE SUV, and BMW iX at the other.

This electric SUV is anticipated to cost between ₹70 lakh and ₹80 lakh, ex-showroom, in India.

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Business

As the appeal of pursuing international education among students of Kerala continues to see a steady increase, Redbooks Abroad is thrilled to announce quality education and scholarship guidance at students’ doorstep. The overseas education consultants in Kerala want to empower thousands of students with essential guidance on international courses and scholarships to make foreign education more accessible.

Pursuing education in an international location is an expensive and time-consuming decision. The education institute one selects can make or break a person’s career. This life-changing decision must be made under the expert guidance of education consultants who are well-versed in the international education system and the financial limitations of students in India. Redbooks Abroad can be a resourceful solution for students aspiring to pursue international courses and prepare and connect for paid internships without compromising on students’ finances and career options.

Redbooks Abroad has been guiding students through online and offline modes for the past 15 years. www.redbooksabroad.com has been bringing qualified education counseling, scholarship guidance, and other overseas education assistance services to many deserving candidates in India. The study abroad consultants in Kerala have set new standards in overseas education consultation by helping students secure offer letters from the international institution of their choice.

The study abroad consultant Redbooks Abroad helps students secure international courses, visas, and applications with institutions in Singapore, Australia, the UK, the US, New Zealand, and Canada. Students from all over the world, not just India, can access the consultancy solutions offered by Redbooks Abroad through the company’s Instagram handle, @redbooks_abroad, and its official website, www.redbooksabroad.com.  

Redbooks Abroad can provide students aspiring to study and work abroad with hand-holding support to fetch them an offer letter from recognized overseas educational institutions out there. Students with aspirations of achieving academic success and rewarding careers in international locations can make the most of the overseas consultancy solutions offered by this company. The company is committed to winning the trust and patronage of students and parents that associate with it to realize their educational aspirations within the suggested budgets and career paths.

Redbooks Abroad’s visa application success has been crawling up the ladder year by year. Students who have availed of Redbooks Abroad’s overseas consultant solutions have become successful promoters of the brand. The webinar sessions and education expos hosted by the company can be useful to students and parents who are unaware of their talents and potential and confused about what to pursue to build a successful career internationally.

Redbooks Abroad is a certified ICEF agency that can live up to the aspirations of students and parents’ communities with personalized guidance and expert advice for informed decision-making. The EdTech company in Kerala can partner in shaping the future of students before they step foot in the pool of overseas education providers. The company understands the worth of the student’s time and money and can simplify the foreign education process for them. An overseas education consultant who is well-versed with web application procedures, requirements, and deadlines, like Redbooks Abroad, can only offer invaluable support to students.

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Business

The next hypercar from Bugatti, the Tourbillon, has been unveiled. It replaces the Chiron and sets new benchmarks for the hypercar industry with its innovative powertrain and modern styling. The W16 engine that drove the Chiron and the Veyron before it was replaced by the hybrid V16 engine found in the Bugatti Tourbillon, is the first model in the brand’s lineup. Only 250 Tourbillon models will be made by Bugatti, with prices starting at €3,800,000 (about Rs. 34 crores). The term ‘Tourbillon’ alludes to a mechanism found in luxury timepieces that contributes to timekeeping precision, underscoring Bugatti’s commitment to fine craftsmanship.

Bugatti Tourbillon – Engine

The 8.3-liter naturally aspirated V16 engine in the new Bugatti Tourbillon generates 1000 horsepower and 900 Nm of torque. The entire power output, when combined with the three electric motors, is an astounding 1800 horsepower and 2300 Nm. A dual-clutch automatic transmission with eight speeds powers this potent combination. In just two seconds, according to Bugatti, the Tourbillon can accelerate from 0 to 100 km/h and from 0 to 299 km/h in ten seconds. Although Mate Rimac, the CEO of Bugatti, intimated that the highest speed might be considerably higher, the official word is 445 km/h.

Bugatti Tourbillon – Design

In terms of design, the Bugatti Tourbillon is completely original, with no components taken from the Chiron. Large horseshoe-shaped grille and quad LED headlamps are located on the front. The ‘Bugatti Line’ has a new interpretation on the sides, while the car’s iconic spine continues along its centre. The car’s rear end features a large diffuser with quad exhaust tips at the bottom and full-width LED tail lights with ‘Bugatti’ writing in the centre.

Bugatti Tourbillon – Interior

The Tourbillon’s interior features a redesigned dashboard and cabin with a large number of analogue dials and controls. The mechanical movement seen in luxury timepieces served as the model for the gauge cluster. Although there is a small display with Apple CarPlay compatibility, it is hidden in the dashboard and only shows up when the driver asks for it to. The steering wheel is one of a kind; only the wheel itself turns, while the hub and instruments remain fixed.

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Business

A report by Autocar India, Force Motors is considering adding an automatic transmission to its well-liked Gurkha SUV.

This move fits into the company’s plan to increase the Gurkha’s appeal—it underwent a major makeover just a month ago.

The upgraded model comes with a more potent 140hp diesel engine and a host of other improvements. It is priced starting at ₹16.75 lakh and is offered in 3-door and 5-door versions.

Current limitations and market competition

The Gurkha’s popularity has been restricted despite recent improvements because there isn’t a less expensive 4×2 version, and only a 5-speed manual transmission is available.

Because of this, the Gurkha is now seen as a speciality car that appeals less to customers in cities.

The shortcomings become more apparent when contrasted with competitors such as the Mahindra Thar and Maruti Suzuki Jimny, which both provide automatic versions that are more popular.

Potential automatic transmission for Gurkha

According to reports, JATCO (Japan Automatic Transmission Company), a company that provides gearboxes to Nissan Magnite and Renault Kiger, is offering an automatic transmission to Force Motors.

The Gurkha’s 7-speed torque converter device, which would enhance the SUV’s 4WD gear and supply the required bottom-end torque for this off-road vehicle, is being considered by the business.

If an automatic gearbox were added, the Gurkha’s cost would probably go up by approximately 1 lakh.

Pricing and features of the automatic transmission Gurkha

The Gurkha 3-door AT is anticipated to cost approximately ₹18 lakh, whereas the 5-door AT is probably going to cost about ₹19 lakh (ex-showroom).

The new versions have updated design cues like redesigned bumpers, 18-inch alloy wheels, circular LED headlights with new DRLs, and, for the 5-door variant, a longer wheelbase.

They have a 9.0-inch touchscreen infotainment system, a 7.0-inch digital instrument console, and a shift-on-fly rotor knob that takes the place of a manual lever for the 4WD shifter within.

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Science

Member states of the European Space Agency have moved closer to changing long-standing rules that give contracts for agency activities according to the amount of money each nation contributes.

Agency representatives announced at a briefing following the June 19 ESA Council meeting that members had decided to implement adjustments to the agency’s programs’ geographic return, or georeturn, policies as a “first step.” Under georeturn, money contributed to ESA initiatives by member states is given back to businesses in those nations in the form of contracts.

This demonstrates how ESA is changing. During the event, ESA Director General Josef Aschbacher stated, “We are evolving towards new conditions.”

Georeturn has drawn criticism from several European nations and ESA member states, who claim it inefficiencies arise from contract awards based more on which nations have contributed to programs and at what rates than on the best supplier. They assert that this results in delays and higher costs.

However, some have cautioned that eliminating georeturn could compromise ESA initiatives by lessening the incentives available to nations to fund those initiatives. Countries may be reluctant to offer funds if there is no assurance that their enterprises will receive contracts commensurate with the amount of their investment.

The resolution modifies the georeturn rules in a minor way. Director of Commercialization at ESA Géraldine Naja remarked, “We presented a resolution on increasing the flexibility in implementing georeturn at ESA but also streamlining the process.”

“This is seen as a first step in a more general evolution of industrial policy, taking into account the completely new space context, which requests much more agility and fast decision-making by ESA whilst keeping the principle of georeturn, which has been essential for ESA and has allowed us to build a very strong supply chain in Europe,” the spokeswoman stated.

While Aschbacher hinted that the changes to georeturn approved by the council in the resolution may be based on a proposal put forth a few years ago, in which ESA would hold a competition for a program, choose the winning bidder, and only then request funding from member states, ESA officials did not go into detail about the specifics of the changes.

He stated, “This is something that we would like now to practice on some examples,” Pilot programs that have not yet been chosen by ESA would implement the new policy. “We have yet to identify the right ones but I’m sure we have some good candidates in mind.”

According to Aschbacher, the resolution was passed by ESA members following a “intensive” debate. He did not address other recommendations made by the industrial policy committee, although modifications to georeturn is only one of the improvements that have been suggested.

“There is an openness of our member states to really make adjustments and see what is best for a competitive industry in Europe,” he stated. “Having said that, some member states said that this is good. We have made very important progress coming to that step, but maybe we should use it as a stepping-stone for a further evolution and further discussions.”

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Business

The well-known luxury automaker Ferrari is getting ready to introduce its first fully electric car (EV), which would start at least €500,000 (about ₹4.5 crore).

Ferrari’s pricing approach demonstrates its confidence in its affluent clientele’s acceptance of the new model.

The corporation is preparing for the debut by erecting a new production plant in Maranello, Italy, and intends to unveil this electric vehicle in late 2025.

New facility to boost production capacity

This month, the new Maranello facility is scheduled to open, producing power inverters, battery packs, and electric motors.

By increasing production capacity by up to a third, the company hopes to be able to produce about 20,000 cars a year.

Compared to the less than 14,000 vehicles Ferrari delivered in 2023, this is a considerable increase.

The new vehicle will provide drivers with a “unique” experience, similar to Ferrari’s classic combustion engine-powered versions, CEO Benedetto Vigna promised.

Ferrari’s ambitious plans for electric and hybrid cars

Ferrari is putting itself in a position to take a sizable chunk of the market for high-performance electric supercars.

By 2026, the business expects 60% of its models to be a combination of fully electric and hybrid vehicles.

Ferrari’s electric vehicle is quoted at a price that excludes further equipment and customisations, which can raise the price by as much as 15% to 20%.

Analysts’ predictions for Ferrari’s new EV

Experts forecast that Ferrari’s new EV would make up little more than 10% of company sales each year because to its high price and the decline in EV sales, particularly for premium EVs.

This label, though, will protect Ferrari’s profit margins in the face of expensive new electric technology development and growing reliance on third-party parts.

It is predicted that the factory will be up and running in three to four months.

Ferrari is also in the early stages of designing a second electric vehicle.

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Early in May 2024, Force Motors released the redesigned Gurkha 3-door SUV for Rs 16.75 lakh (ex-showroom). In addition, a 5-door variant with more seats, features, and a stronger engine is also offered; this version costs Rs 18 lakh ex-showroom. The Gurkha twins’ reservations opened in late April 2024, but Force’s deliveries throughout India have only recently started.

The Force Gurkha 5-door shares the same front end design as its upgraded 3-door sibling. Both models have a snorkel, fender-mounted turn indicators, round LED headlights, fog lights with cornering capability, and a two-slat grille with Gurkha insignia. The 5-door SUV has a 425mm larger wheelbase when viewed from the side in order to accommodate a third row of captain seats. The SUVs also have 18-inch diamond-cut alloy wheels, hefty wheel arches, and blacked-out door handles.

The Gurkha 3-door and 5-door share the identical rear end design, which includes a roof rack, a spare wheel positioned on the tailgate, and vertically stacked LED taillamps. Red, Green, White, and Black are the four exterior colors available for both versions.

Force Gurkha: Engine

The upgraded Force Gurkha is powered by a Mercedes-Benz 2.6-liter four-cylinder diesel engine. The engine produces peak torque of 320 Nm and maximum power of 138 horsepower (up 48 horsepower). The SUV has a new shift-on-the-fly 4WD technology, but the manual diff lock levers on the front and rear are still present.

Force Gurkha: Features

The Gurkha boasts a 7.0-inch digital driver’s display and a 9.0-inch touchscreen infotainment system with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto connections. In addition, you get an auto start-stop system, tilt and telescopic adjustable steering, powered outside rearview mirrors, and overhead air conditioning vents for the second and third rows.

Force provides several safety features, including an electronic brakeforce distribution system (EBD), dual airbags, traction control, hill-hold assist, three-point seatbelts for all passengers, and an anti-lock braking system (ABS).

The future Mahindra Thar 5-door (Armada) and the Force Gurkha 5-door face off in the market, while the Mahindra Thar (3-door) and the 3-door SUV are still rivals.

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Business

With the introduction of the Creta, Hyundai Motor India Limited launched 2024, and the response has been overwhelmingly enthusiastic. The company is currently working on releasing the Alcazar, which has been given a facelift and is essentially a 7-seater Creta. There is currently no set date for the Alcazar renovation to launch. But it could have its premiere before the year is over.

The Hyundai Alcazar of 2024 will have a completely new front end. With a redesigned grille, vertically stacked headlamps, a light bar, and LED daytime running lamps, it would resemble the Creta quite a bit. Hyundai would, nevertheless, alter a few things to set the Alcazar apart from the Creta.

New alloy wheels, predicted to be eighteen inches in diameter, would be mounted on the sides. There would be a light bar and a new set of LED tail lamps on the back. It is anticipated that Hyundai will not provide the Alcazar in an N-Line configuration.

It’s also anticipated that the interior would stay comparable to the Creta. On the other hand, the Alcazar might have center console captain chairs in the second row. In addition to being distinct from the Creta, the variant selection will include more features as standard.

It is anticipated that the Alcazar will remain mechanically identical to the Creta. In other words, three 1.5-liter engines would be available. Three types of fuel would be available: diesel, turbocharged, and normally aspirated. The naturally aspirated engine provides 113 horsepower and 144 Nm, the diesel engine produces 113 horsepower and 250 Nm, and the turbocharged petrol engine produces 158 horsepower and 253 Nm. There is a 6-speed torque converter automatic, a 7-speed dual-clutch automatic, and a 6-speed manual gearbox available for use.

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