Cars
TVS Motor Company Launches the TVS X Electric Bike
TVS Motor Company has launched the new TVS X, its flagship crossover EV with a host of industry-first attributes. According to the company, the new electric bike sets a new benchmark in the global electric mobility industry with its stunning design, unmatched performance, and cutting-edge tech features, carving out a new category in the electric mobility segment. “As a frontrunner in sustainable mobility solutions, TVS Motor Company aims to transform the EV segment and reaffirm its commitment to a more sustainable and cleaner future,” the company said in a statement.
Speaking at the launch, Sudarshan Venu, Managing Director, TVS Motor Company said, “Our dedication to harness technology and innovation towards a greener and more sustainable future has brought to us this incredibly desirable machine. This launch marks a defining moment in TVS Motors’ journey of showcasing a made-in-India EV, the TVS X. It has been designed for global citizens, who are trendsetters and visionaries with a passion for technology. It is set to inspire a shift towards premium yet sustainable and technologically advanced mobility solutions. It leads the way to becoming a global benchmark for a machine that is born electric. The TVS X embodies innovation with a disruptive mindset. It has sustainability at its core and embodies the next era of clean mobility. With its remarkable performance, premium aesthetics, and integrated, intuitive, and personalised experiences, we believe it will redefine mobility worldwide.”
Built on an all-new platform, the TVS X is built on a high-precision cast aluminium alloy frame as its centrepiece. The TVS Xleton frame sets a benchmark in the industry and has been developed with optimum stiffness and durability in mind. The layout flows into a mono-cast subframe, designed to maximise space and convenience. The minimised drag resistance ensures the vehicle cuts through the air with the least resistance thus enhancing the vehicle’s efficiency. This also boasts of a segment 1st Ram Air Cooled Motor as opposed to existing forced convection cooling methods, that allows dynamic cooling for critical parts and delivers sustained performance.
Further to the innovative design, there are enhancements made to the light architecture on the TVS X that transform the mundane into a special experience. The four-element LED headlamp leads the way with its signature style, followed by sequential turn indicators and programmable light sequences that allow the user to animate start-up, shut down and various other vehicle states to personalise the machine.
The TVS X is built around a ‘rider-first’ philosophy. It has been developed from the ground up to break the norm and is engineered to allow riders to experience handling at a telepathic level. From vehicle dynamics, control software, powertrain, the aluminium frame, and new OS, to the robust software architecture, everything has been developed from scratch in-house by dedicated design, engineering, and software teams.
The TVS Xleton frame offers >2X tortional stiffness and >4X the vertical stiffness compared to the category standard, offering superb agility and extraordinary steering precision. A carefully packaged battery unit complements it to manage the centre of gravity and deliver best-in-class dynamics that enhance the rider’s sense of control. Specially developed tyre compounds, for the TVS X, also improve grip levels while reducing rolling resistance.
At 11kW of peak power, the TVS X is the most powerful EV in the segment with class-leading acceleration of 0- 40kmph in 2.6 seconds, and a sustained true max speed of 105kmph. This performance is possible from the PMSM (Permanent Magnet Synchronous Motor) motor supported by an integrated controller, developed in-house by TVS Motor.
Further efficiency gains are made thanks to multi-level selectable re-gen modes to suit individual riding styles. In case of emergencies, it is equipped with the latest generation of ABS, also a segment first, for confidence-inspiring stops. TVS X comes with a smart Hill-Hold feature, that ascertains the most precise operation.
TVS X has a high-performance battery pack that delivers 4.44kWh of installed capacity energy, one of the best in the segment. The in-house developed Battery Management System at TVS Motor ensures safe operation and prolonged lifespan of the cells by continuously monitoring current flow. Finally, TVS X comes with the option of Smart X Home rapid charger, which delivers 0 – 50% in 50 minutes (optional add-on 3 kW fast charger) OR portable charger delivering 0 – 80% in 4 hours 30 minutes (950W charger).
Launch showcases software platforms and technology built on best-in-class open-source framework and components that make TVS X instinctive, scalable, modular and effortless. The re-imagined rider interface comes with a 10.2-inch HD+ TFT touchscreen, the largest in this class, and offers deeper customisation. To add to the convenience, the expansive cluster, placed atop the forged aluminium handlebar, can also be adjusted for tilt, ensuring the rider always has the best visibility in all riding positions.
TVS NavPro, the onboard navigation system built with the next-gen TVS SmartXonnect platform, brings context-aware information to the rider. The signature EV-specific routing algorithms pre-emptively map charging station routes for a hassle-free experience enhancing productivity. Further, the destinations between the mobile app and the vehicle can be seamlessly synced.
The TVS X is one of the most advanced two-wheelers in the world that also offers great personalisation. TVS PlayTech: A wide array of widgets can be chosen to personalise the information displayed, select themes or simply upload pictures as cluster wallpaper. There are four unique ways to unlock TVS X which enables easy access.
Segment first immersive features like Wellness, Gaming, Live video streaming and internet browsing designed for all riding episodes. In addition, there is another layer of safety that comes assured with the TVS Smart Xhield. It helps safeguard the rider with proactive safety features like crash alert and tow alert and also offers dedicated assistance while enhancing security. There’s more, like live vehicle location sharing, straight from the cluster, an industry first.
Cars
Tesla Unveils Cybercab and Robovan: A New Era of Autonomous Transportation
Tesla has finally revealed its highly anticipated driverless robotaxi, the Cybercab, and a larger autonomous vehicle called the Robovan. These groundbreaking vehicles represent a significant step forward in the company’s mission to revolutionize transportation.
The Cybercab, designed to resemble a sleek, futuristic vehicle, features a minimalist interior and advanced autonomous driving technology. It is expected to cost less than $30,000 and will begin unsupervised full self-driving trials in Texas and California next year.
Tesla also surprised attendees with the debut of the Robovan, a larger, more versatile vehicle capable of transporting up to 20 people or a significant amount of cargo. Its design is reminiscent of a futuristic sci-fi movie and offers potential applications for both commercial and personal use.
In addition to these new vehicles, Tesla showcased its Optimus humanoid robots, which are expected to be available for purchase in the coming years. These robots are designed to assist humans with various tasks and could be used in manufacturing and healthcare industries.
The unveiling of these innovative vehicles marks a significant milestone for Tesla and highlights the company’s commitment to developing cutting-edge autonomous technology. As Tesla continues to push the boundaries of electric transportation, the future of mobility looks increasingly promising.
Cars
Rolls-Royce Unveils Black Badge Ghost Series II
Rolls-Royce Motor Cars has today unveiled the Black Badge Ghost Series II, a daring and powerful new expression of its iconic Ghost model. This latest addition to the Black Badge family is the most agile, driver-focused, and technically advanced Rolls-Royce ever created.
Powered by an uncompromising 6.75-litre twin-turbocharged V12 engine in a high-power configuration, the Black Badge Ghost Series II delivers exceptional performance. The all-wheel-drive, all-wheel-steering chassis, combined with the Black Badge Planar Suspension System, ensures a thrilling and dynamic driving experience.
The exterior design of the Black Badge Ghost Series II is equally striking, featuring a unique lower grille, darkened chrome accents, and a dramatic 22-inch wheelset. The interior is equally impressive, with luxurious materials, advanced technology, and a focus on driver comfort and control.
Chris Brownridge, Chief Executive of Rolls-Royce Motor Cars, commented, “Black Badge Ghost Series II responds to a very specific demand among our clients – those who wish to enjoy the potency of this motor car’s uncompromising engine and inherent agility almost exclusively from the driver’s seat.”
Juliane Blasi, Head of Exterior Design at Rolls-Royce Motor Cars, added, “With Black Badge Ghost Series II, we have introduced subtle but impactful design impulses that clearly signal this motor car’s incredible agility and power.”
The Black Badge Ghost Series II is available to commission now, alongside the Ghost Series II and Ghost Extended Series II.
Cars
Sinotruk Enters UAE Market with New Brand VGV
Chinese automotive giant Sinotruk, a pioneer in the heavy-duty truck industry, has officially entered the UAE market with its new passenger vehicle brand, VGV (Visionable Global Vanguard). Established in 1930, Sinotruk has a long innovation and technical excellence history. The company’s decision to expand into the passenger car market is a testament to its growing global ambitions.
The new VGV showroom is in Al Qouz 1, Dubai, UAE. The brand offers various vehicles, including SUVs, pickups, vans, and MPVs, powered by various energy sources such as electric, hybrid, fuel, diesel, and alternative energy.
VGV’s SUV models are designed to cater to families, offering spacious interiors and advanced safety features. The pickup models, powered by the renowned Wei Chai Engine manufactured by Sinotruk, are known for their durability and performance.
Prices for VGV vehicles start at AED 73,000, making them an attractive option for consumers seeking quality and affordability.