Conceived as pure electric mobility, the new car will redefine the Sports Activity Vehicle (SAV) concept. The newly developed, precise and minimalist design of the BMW iX is representative of a trailblazing generation of cars poised to redefine the driving experience, the feeling of space inside and the relationship between vehicles and those on board.
The BMW iX is created to provide quality of life and wellbeing for drivers and passengers. The vehicle harnesses the latest innovations in the fields of electrification, automated driving and connectivity to deliver a mobility experience which puts people more than ever at its heart. The clear and minimalist design of the car’s exterior showcases a new form of mobility geared squarely to the needs of the vehicle’s occupants. In contrast, the interior design offers those on-board innovative options for using the time during a journey enjoying relaxation, safety, security, and a new form of luxury in the process.
The concept and design of the BMW iX are rooted in an all-embracing approach to sustainability. It is reflected in the areas such as optimised aerodynamics, intelligent lightweight design and extensive use of natural and recycled materials that help to create a cutting-edge sense of luxury and comprehensive feeling of wellbeing on board.
The car comes with the fifth generation of BMW eDrive technology – which encompasses the two electric motors, power electronics, charging technology and the high-voltage battery which guarantees exceptional efficiency and long-range. The power unit is manufactured using sustainable materials without the use of critical raw materials like rare earth elements, and by the most recent calculations will develop maximum output of more than 370 kW. This unit will be enough to power the car from 0 to 100 km/h (62 mph) in under 5.0 seconds. At the same time, the vehicle’s apparent aim is to post an exceptionally low combined electric power consumption figure for its segment of less than 21 kWh per 100 kilometres (62 miles) in the WLTP test cycle.
The BMW iX comes with a new charging technology that enables DC fast charging at up to 200 kW. This technology allows the vehicle to be charged from 10 to 80 percent of its full capacity in under 40 minutes. Ten minutes charge can feed enough energy into the battery to increase the car’s range by more than 120 kilometers (75 miles). On a standard Wallbox at 11 kW, the high-voltage battery can be charged from 0 to 100 percent in less than eleven hours. The batteries in the car are designed as a part of a long-term resource cycle, making it exceptionally easy to recycle. Besides, the power used to produce the cells, and the high voltage battery comes exclusively from renewable sources contributing to an eco-friendly future.
The new technology toolkit making its debut in the car has computing power in the areas of automated driving and digital services, 20 times more than the previous models. As a result, around double the amount of data from vehicle sensors can be processed than was previously possible.
Talking about the technology and the computing power of the car, Frank Weber, Member of the Board of Management of BMW AG said, “We are setting new industry standards with the technology in the BMW iX”. The iX has more computing power and more robust sensor technology that will help in new and improved automated driving and parking functions and using the high-performing fifth-generation electric drive system.
The kidney grille at the front has been completely blanked off and converted into an intelligence panel. The camera technology, radar function and other sensors are integrated seamlessly into the grill behind a transparent surface. The grill has reinvented itself as an innovative and multifunctional high-tech interface for the advanced driver assistance systems which paves the way for automated driving. Developed and produced at BMW’s LuTZ lightweight design and technology centre the kidney grille presents a technological showcase for intelligent mobility. Also, the material used to make the intelligence panel on the kidney grille is self-healing.
Like the kidney grille, all the technologies are subtly located on the car. For example, an array of sensors and cameras are discreetly placed around the vehicle to help with automated driving. The filler neck for the windscreen washer fluid is concealed under the BMW logo on the bonnet. The rear-view camera has been integrated into the BMW logo on the tailgate. Technology stays in the background and only becomes apparent as and when the relevant functions are called into action.
The exterior design of the car features the slimmest headlight units ever on a series-production model from the carmaker. The flush-fitted door handles, the frameless side windows, the tailgate – which has no separation joints and extends across the whole of the rear and the likewise extremely slim rear lights carry forward the minimalistic theme.
On the inside the newly developed seats with integral head restraints and a vast electrochromic panoramic glass roof that imbibes the feeling of spaciousness and gives the cabin a luxurious lounge-like ambience. The all-new architecture of the car adds to the straightforward functionality that revolves around the needs and emotions of the driver and the passengers. The missing central tunnel adds to the open, airy feel while allowing extra legroom.
The interior involves shy technology, which makes previously visible functions hidden and creating stylish elegance. The technology represents the panels wherein the controls on the central console of the car are placed. It only becomes visible when it is needed making it intuitive to use rather than seeming overly complicated. The shy tech approach for the interior can be seen in several features, including speakers integrated out of sight, intricately styled air vents, heated surfaces and the discreet recessing of the Head-Up Display’s projector into the instrument panel, so it is almost invisible.
The BMW iX is expected to hit the market in late 2021, showcasing the best of vehicle maker to come in the future. The company plans to launch 20 plus fully electric cars shortly, and the use of sustainable material to build cars show its concern towards a greener and better tomorrow. (MT)
On the occasion of Onam festival, Renault India Private Limited (RIPL) has announced festive offers in the form of discounts and benefits of up to INR 75,000 on its range of vehicles sold in the state of Kerala. It has also announced additional loyalty benefits for its vehicle buyers in the respective state.
The RIPL dealership in Kerala has achieved a rear feat of delivering a total of 200 vehicles in a day during the festival period, which is 20 August 2023 to 31 August 2023. The Onam festival offers from the company are applicable till 31 August 2023.
Sudhir Malhotra, Vice President – Sales & Marketing, Renault India Private Limited (RIPL), said, "Onam is a festival that resonates with the spirit of togetherness and celebration. At Renault, we believe in becoming an integral part of our customers' joyful moments. The remarkable achievement of our dealer, who delivered 200 vehicles in a single day, is a testament to our brand's strength and our commitment to providing exceptional experiences to our customers. With our special festive offers, we aim to add more delight to this festive season and bring our customers closer to their dream of owning a Renault vehicle.”
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Mahindra & Mahindra Ltd has launched yet another compact SUV called the XUV 3XO. Conceptualised at the Mahindra India Design Studio (MIDS) in Mumbai and engineered (and developed) at the Mahindra Research Valley (MRV) near Chennai, the new vehicle combines standout design, premium interiors, comfortable ride, cutting-edge technology, thrilling performance and unmatched safety.
With the base model priced at INR 749,000 ex-showroom, the XUV 3XO is made at the company’s facility in Nashik with the use of advanced manufacturing processes to ensure a high-quality job. To commence deliveries from 26 May 2024, the vehicle is fitted with 17-inch wheels. It has a water wading depth of 350 mm.
Laced with 35 standard safety features including six airbags, ESC with Hill Hold Control (HHC) and disc brakes on all four wheels, the XUV 3XO is built to meet the highest B-NCAP safety rating. Powered by a 1.2-litre TDGI (turbo-petrol) engine that does 230 Nm torque and a 1.5-litre turbo-diesel engine that does 300 Nm, the compact SUV is offered with a 6-speed auto transmission.
Capable of accelerating from 0 to 60 kmph in 4.5 seconds on the turbo-petrol model, the XUV 3XO is equipped with a multi-tuned valve concentric land technology (MTV-CL). This technology – being offered by OE suspension parts suppliers Monroe and Tennaco – enables a uniquely broad range of tuning options in terms of vehicles dynamics.
The MTV-CL technology helps to enhance damper performance by providing a more precisely defined blend of ride, handling and NVH. The XUV 3XO is the second vehicle to get this technology after the Scorpio N.
Fitted with a MacPherson strut fully independent front suspension and a twist beam semi-independent rear suspension, the compact SUV is quite refined and spacious for its size.
Claimed to have the best-in-class wheelbase, occupant space and legroom, the compact SUV offers 364-litre boot space at the rear. This could be further enhanced by folding both or either of the 60:40 rear seat.
Available with first-in-the-segment ‘Skyroof’, dual zone climate control and 65-watt USB-C charging, as per the company sources, the XUV 3XO comes with an electronic parking brake (with auto hold), three smart steering modes, Level 2 ADAS and Twin HD Screens – a 26.03 cm screen for infotainment and a 26.03 cm screen for instrumentation. In terms of convenience, there’s wireless Android Auto and Apple Carplay, and built-in Alexa. The Harman Kardon premium audio system consists of an amplifier and sub-woofer. There’s 360-degree surround view system with blind view monitor too.
Speaking at the launch of the XUV 3XO, Veejay Nakra, President – Automotive Division, Mahindra & Mahindra Ltd, said, "With the launch of the XUV 3XO, starting at an attractive price of INR 749,000, Mahindra is redefining what an SUV can be. Engineered to deliver 'Everything you want and more,' the XUV 3XO is designed to cater to a broad spectrum of customers. From those upgrading from a hatchback to their first SUV to luxury seekers looking for high-end features at a competitive price, the XUV 3XO offers a unique blend of innovation, safety, comfort, and performance. Each variant is a strategic response to the nuanced needs of different customer segments, effectively making each variant a disruptor in its segment."
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Mazda CX-30 And Five Other Models Get Top Safety Pick+ Ratings
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- June 12, 2020
The IIHS evaluates a variety of crashworthiness tests including driver-side and passenger-side small overlap and moderate overlap frontal crashes, a side crash, a roof strength test and a head restraint and seat test that simulates a rear impact. In addition, headlight performance and frontal crash prevention by means of auto-braking and forward collision warning systems are evaluated.
For the Mazda CX-30, its strong Top Safety Pick rating in the US tests adds to a series of impressive global safety assessment results. In Europe, the CX-30 achieved a maximum five-star rating by Euro NCAP, while the Australian New Car Assessment Programme (ANCAP) also awarded Mazda’s new SUV the maximum five-star rating. Both safety bodies scored Mazda’s newest SUV with an exceptional 99 percent score in the Adult Occupant category - making it the first vehicle to ever achieve this near-perfect score. It also earned maximum points for frontal full-width impact, as well as the maximum for both barrier and pole side impacts.
In the United States, Mazda was the manufacturer who received the most 2020 Top Safety Pick+ awards, a result that is a testament to the company’s overarching safety philosophy focusing on three key factors: the adoption of the very latest Skyactiv-Vehicle Architecture, which features a high-rigidity, impact-absorbing yet lightweight body shell; a wide range of advanced i-Activsense safety technologies which help drivers identify potential risks and reduce the likelihood of damage or injury; and high standards of pedestrian protection performance.
The Mazda CX-30’s active and passive safety performance, is complemented by its driver-focused dynamics that deliver linear, responsive and predictable acceleration, braking, handling, and steering. Involving, safe, comfortable and refined, the car’s advanced safety technologies reduce the potential for accidents without compromising Mazda’s traditional fun-to-drive character.
In addition to its 99 percent Adult Occupant score, the CX-30’s Euro NCAP performance included Child Occupant score of 86 percent, full marks in Child Restraint System installation checks and for child protection in the lateral impact test. Vulnerable Road User (pedestrian safety) tests achieved a score of 80 percent, with maximum points for pedestrian leg and pelvis area protection. A score of 77 percent in the Safety Assist category recognizes the efficiency of the new Mazda CX-30’s comprehensive suite of i-Activsense safety features. Michiel van Ratingen, Secretary-General of Euro NCAP, said, “Congratulations to Mazda for another almost-perfect score in adult occupant safety”.
Revealed at the Geneva Motor Show in 2019, the Mazda CX-30 enters a new market segment for Mazda, slotting into the company’s award-winning SUV range below the larger CX-5. The second model in the company’s next generation line-up, like the Mazda3, it features Skyactiv-X spark-controlled compression ignition engine. Combining the bold stance of an SUV with the sleek profile of a coupe, its styling is a sophisticated evolution of Mazda’s KODO design philosophy, while it’s spacious and versatile cabin ensures it has the practicality and comfort demanded by customers in this popular sector. (MT)
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Hyundai Motor India is all set to add a new member to its SUV family as it recently unveiled the official images of the Alcazar. According to the Korean manufacturer, this new three-row SUV will be a natural upgrade for Creta owners. Going by its name, Alcazar, which means castle or fortress in Spanish, is set to offer plush comfort lavishly. No doubt the Creta continues to be the best-selling SUV in its segment, but Hyundai feels the Alcazar will add more versatility and flexibility by offering a 6- or 7-seater SUV in the lap of luxury.
At the unveiling of the Alcazar, S S Kim, MD & CEO, Hyundai Motor India Ltd, said, “With a deep-rooted understanding of our customer’s aspirations, our R&D centre has invested countless man-hours to ensure every aspect of Hyundai Alcazar exudes magnificence. And combined with our premium and superior manufacturing capabilities and rich heritage of ‘Make in India’, we have crafted the perfect masterpiece of grandeur. Hyundai Alcazar is well set to enter a new segment, marking Hyundai’s genesis into uncharted territories. With bold new moves, we are on a conquest of redefining benchmarks to exceed the aspirations of our customers.”
Even though the Alcazar’s based on the Creta, it gets a 2,760 mm wheelbase, which is 150 mm longer, and this additional space allows it to accommodate the third row. As a matter of fact, the Alcazar boasts of having the longest wheelbase in the segment beating the Mahindra XUV500, MG Hector Plus and the Tata Safari.
At a glance, there’s no getting away from the fact that the Alcazar looks like a stretched Creta, but once you take a closer look, there’s a lot more than meets the eye. The first thing that will catch your attention is the new chrome-studded front grille. The lower part of the grille, which also houses the number plate, gets a thick silver-finish rim that runs all the way to the headlamp cluster splitting the LED headlights and the DRLs. The front bumper is slightly tweaked from the Creta and sports a new set of fog lamps. With faux skid plates in front and rear, the Alcazar does try to flex its SUV image. As the Alcazar is 6- or a 7-seater, it has a massive quarter glass for the third-row passengers.
Coming to the side silhouette, Alcazar’s extended length becomes quite evident with its longer rear overhang. Hyundai has given the new SUV quite a muscular stance with bulging wheel arches and deeply etched bodylines starting from the headlight across the doors and ending at the rear lamps. For practical purposes, it also comes with a side step for making entering and exiting the cabin easier for the passengers. Apart from this, the Alcazar gets a new set of dual-tone 18-inch alloy wheels like the Safari and the XUV500, but bigger than Hector Plus and the Creta.
The Alcazar’s rear profile is completely different from the Creta as it sports a clean and simple design with wrap-around elongated C-shaped taillights.
Even though Hyundai hasn’t revealed much about the Alcazar’s cabin, the second row will either come with Captain seats with floor-mounted armrest, a first in the segment, or a three-seater bench. Both the seats can slide forward or back for additional space. The third row, on the other hand, comes with 50:50 split seats that can be completely folded to make more boot space. With the third row up, the Alcazar offers a decent space of 180 litres, which is again more than Hector Plus, Safari and the XUV500. The third-row passengers will also get dedicated air conditioner vents. Expect the Alcazar to retain all the features from the Creta like a 10.25-inch touchscreen unit, Bose music system, ventilated front seats, Blue Link car connectivity, panoramic sunroof, wireless phone charger and much more.
The Alcazar will be powered by a 2-litre petrol engine like the Elantra and the Tucson and the tried-and-tested 1.5-litre diesel, which is seen in the Creta. The petrol motor will churn out 157 bhp and 192 Nm of torque. It gets an additional 7 bhp more than the Elantra and Tucson. The diesel variant, on the other hand, produces 113 bhp and 250 Nm of torque. Both the powertrains will be mated to either a 6-speed manual or a 6-speed torque converter automatic transmission. The Alcazar will also boast of multiple drive mode selection—Eco, City and Sport.
After a span of two decades in India, Hyundai has managed to sell over one million ‘Made in India’ SUVs in both domestic and export markets, which began with the Tucson, Santa Fe, Terracan and now the torch has been passed on to the Creta and the Venue. No doubt the new Alcazar will further strengthen the Korean manufacturer’s position in the SUV market. (MT)
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