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BMW S 1000 XR: The Holy Grail of off-roaders is back!

If luxury brands are your thing, it is impossible that you have not heard of German luxury automobile manufacturer BMW. Its Indian wing, BMW Motorrad India has officially launched its internationally best-selling adventure sportbike, the all-new BMW S 1000 XR in India. It’s an all-days sports bike that uniquely blends sporty and long-distance performance in perfect form. Its sporty aggressiveness comes from its fully-faired sibling, the S 1000 RR. Its outstanding GS ergonomics with the upright, relaxed seat position, lets the riders enjoy all curves and straight roads.

BMW has designed the motorcycle to reflect pure performance and the promise of long-distance traveling comfort with a riding position that is impressively active yet relaxed. The front fairing and lighting systems are defined by sharp edges. Combined with striking beading, the overall line is shaped aggressively and consistently to the finish. The visually short tail is also reminiscent of a sportbike. The revised aerodynamics, fairing, comfortable handlebars along with long-distant seating position ensure great riding fun miles after miles. The adjustable windshield provides even better protection against the cold, driving noises, and the elements allowing the rider to keep the eyes on the road. All lighting units such as the headlamp, taillight, indicator lights, and instrument cluster use the latest LED technology. The integrated parking lights enhance the bike’s unmistakable appearance.

The newly developed 999 cc in-line 4-cylinder engine is based on the BMW S 1000 RR engine and delivers an output of 165 hp at 11,000 rpm and a maximum torque of 114 Nm at 9,250 rpm. The engine speed range is broader and harmonious to enhance rideability. The 4th, 5th, and 6th gears now have longer ratios, low noise levels, lower fuel consumption, and lower engine rpm at cruising speeds. The motorcycle sprints from 0-100 km/hr in just 3.3 seconds and can achieve a top speed of over 200 km/hr.

The new BMW S 1000 XR has four standard riding modes – Rain, Road, Dynamic and Dynamic Pro. The ‘Dynamic Pro’ mode is fully configurable and offers riders a wide range of setting options to suit their riding style. The throttle response, engine brake, ABS control (Anti-lock Braking System) and traction control, wheelie control (including the new ‘Power Wheelie’ setting) can be configured separately for the first time. While the BMW Motorrad ABS system already provides a very high degree of performance and safety when braking in a straight line, ABS Pro takes this a step further when braking in a banking position.

The adventure tourer features the latest generation of BMW Motorrad Dynamic ESA (Electronic Suspension Adjustment) as standard. The best-in-class 6.5- inch colour TFT screen instrument cluster along with BMW Motorrad connectivity offers unmatched display and access to information. In addition, the BMW Motorrad Connected App offers handy arrow-based navigation suitable for day-to-day use directly on the TFT screen. The multi-controller on the left-hand handlebar panel enables quick, safe, and convenient screen operation.

A wide array of retrofit equipment and gear options are available to further enhance the riding experience with a range of storage bags, backpacks, rider gear, navigation, and communication. Customers can augment their bikes with safety accessories such as radiator grille, hand protector, brake disk lock with an anti-theft alarm, and protective glass for TFT screen.

Quick maintenance at home or while touring is made easy with assembly stand, multifunctional tool kit, tyre pressure travel pack, breakdown assistance kit for tubeless tyres and a compact foot pump.

Mr Arlindo Teixeira, acting President, BMW Group India said, “The all-new BMW S 1000 XR is an agile achiever that sets a new benchmark in the adventure sports segment. It is a power-packed performer that brings the real racetrack feel to everyday roads. With its newly developed engine and uncompromising ergonomics, it offers awe-inspiring performance, sporty ride and long-distance capabilities. Riders waiting for a distinctive experience will be drawn to the multi-faceted all-new BMW S 1000 XR. It’s a perfect companion, ready to hit the road for all kinds of journeys with sheer motorcycling enjoyment.”

For complete peace of mind and to ensure that the journey of pure motorcycling continues uninterrupted at all times, the all-new BMW S100 XR comes with a standard warranty for ‘three years, unlimited kilometers’, with an option to extend the warranty to fourth and fifth year. Roadside Assistance, a 24×7 365 days package further ensures prompt services in case of breakdown and towing situations.

The new bike can be ordered as a completely built-up unit (CBU) from today onwards throughout the BMW Motorrad dealer network. The all-new BMW S 1000 XR will be offered in a Pro variant in Ice Grey and Racing Red colour options. The ex-showroom price is Rs 20,90,000.

Love personalized products? The Audi RS 7 Sportback is perfect for you!

Soon after revealing the next-gen RS 7 Sportback, Audi has officially launched the car in India today. The German luxury carmaker has made the RS 7 Sportback more versatile than before and is offering it as a wide-bodied five-seater, for the first time.

Commenting on the launch, Mr. Balbir Singh Dhillon, Head of Audi India, said, “We are thrilled to launch the new Audi RS 7 Sportback in India – a car that is striking, powerful and is a technological masterpiece. The V8 twin-turbo 4.0L TFSI petrol heart propels the car to 100kph in a super quick 3.6 seconds. Our legendary quattro all-wheel drive system means you can make the most of the 600hp. I personally love the way the RS 7 sounds and I can’t wait for owners and enthusiasts to experience and hear its V8 growl.”

We had previously listed the technicalities of the RS7 Sportback. But we still cannot comprehend the number of personalization and customization options available for potential buyers.Right from an optional sunroof to suspension options, from 13 standard exterior paint finishes to 5 additional Matte Effect paints, the options are practically endless. To enable customers to explore the bevy of features available, Audi India offers an Augmented Reality experience, a first of its kind. Customers can visit www.audi.in and use the 360° Product Visualizer to explore all the latest features and customization options.

Audi has electronically limited the top speed of the RS 7 Sportback to 250kmph. However, racing enthusiasts and speed freaks can opt for the optional dynamic package or the RS dynamic plus package, that increases the speed limit to 280kmph and 305kmph respectively. Equipped with the standard eight-speed Tiptronic transmission and permanent , the Audi RS 7 Sportback can hit 100kph in just 3.6 seconds. The previously mentioned optional Dynamic Package plus package also adds high performance RS ceramic brakes to significantly increase the braking performance of the car.

The car gets LED headlamps with dynamic indicators as standard, while HD Matrix LED headlamps with laser lights are available as an option. The rear view camera can also be optionally upgraded with surround view cameras. Audi is also offering an optional B&O Advanced Surround System with 3D sound in the front and rear from 19 speakers and 1820 W output that will replace the standard B&O Sound System features a 3D front surround system and 16 speakers with a 705 W output.

The wheels too, can be personalized by the customer. The standard 53.34cm 10-spoke star design wheels can be upgraded to 55.88cm rims with different finishes. The seats can also be upgraded with black pearl Nappa leather or Valcona leather as per the customer’s wish. Soft power latching of the doors is also optionally available, to add a finishing touch of customization.

With all these options to choose from, the RS 7 also gets a suitable price tag. It has a base price of Rs 1.94 Crore (ex-showroom) and its deliveries are expected to commence in August 2020. Customers can book the Audi RS 7 Sportback online (www.audi.in) from the comfort of their home or head to their nearest Audi India dealership. Additionally, all customization and personalization needs can be catered to by any Audi India dealership. Audi India has ensured all dealerships and workshops are completely sanitized twice a day with adequate safety measures rolled out across processes.

Ford’s terrain conqueror returns: The 2021 Bronco SUV

Ford has officially revealed the 2021 Bronco SUV that will, for the first time, be available in a four-door version. Since its hibernation in 1996, Bronco fans worldwide have been anticipating its return. The American car manufacturer also hinted at a new model in 2004, when it introduced a concept car. Ford finally confirmed the arrival of a new Bronco in 2016.

In its 2021 avatar, the fifth-gen Bronco aims at reigniting its age-old rivalry with the Jeep Wrangler. It retains some classic elements such as LED DRLs inset to the round headlights and hood tie-downs called “Trail Sights” by Ford; a true insignia of its legacy. It also keeps its familial stance and general proportions.

The interiors are awash with nostalgia as well, but with ample modernization. Its retro-looking instrumentation is suavely complemented by a brand-new, 12-inch touchscreen infotainment system. It gets Ford’s SYNC 4 software with OTA updates, that offers FordPass Performance app compatibility and onboard topographic trail maps. These maps can be used by drivers to plan, navigate and share their trail adventures. The roof panels and the frameless doors are removable (we would be so sad if they were not!) and the switches have been rubberised as well, making the interior completely washable.

Ford, in a sleight of hand, has added an integrated rollcage and curtain airbags to get a one-up in safety over its rival. It has also made the Bronco significantly larger than the Jeep Wranger (JL), while giving it independent front suspension! It is paired with a solid multilink rear axle and is offered with Bilstein’s top of the line Position sensitive dampers.

The 2021 Bronco will be offered in a four-door, as well as in the classic two-door version. Customers can choose from seven trims, in which the ground clearance varies from 231m to 295mm and wheel size increases from standard 6-inch with 30-inch tyres to 17-inch wheels with 35-inch tyres.

Buyers also have a choice between two EcoBoost turbocharged petrol engines. The first is a 2.3-litre inline four-cylinder producing 270PS/420Nm, offered with either a Getrag 7-speed manual (6+1 crawler gear) or a 10-speed automatic. The second engine, a 2.7-litre twin-turbo V6 making 310PS/542Nm is only offered with the automatic transmission.

Wished Spy Kids was real? Meet the Audi AI: RACE.

We were barely breaking in our teens when we were introduced to the Spy Kids franchise. The cool, futuristic setting of the movies was only complemented by the fast and furious vehicles in the movie. Perhaps taking inspiration from them or out of sheer automotive genius, German automobile manufacturer Audi has created the AI: RACE.

First introduced in 2018, the car is a symbol of futuristic technology, as it supports wireless charging that can juice up the battery in just 15 minutes! It is expected to be offered with a solid-state 95kWh capacity battery that will give the AI: RACE a range of 500 kilometres. It also offers a segment-first transforming cockpit.

No, the car does not transform into a talking robot, unfortunately. However, the cockpit can be adjusted to suit the racetrack or the road. This is possible as the driver’s seat and the cockpit are integrated into an inner monocoque shell that can be slid laterally. This allows the driver to position the steering wheel in the centre of the car- a perfect setup for the racetrack. Naturally, the pedals can be shifted as well, while all of this is made possible by the by-wire design that eliminates the need of a mechanical connection.

Gael Buzyn is Head of the Audi Design Loft in Malibu – where the Audi AI:RACE was born. He describes the most important item in the specifications: “We want to offer the driver an experience that is otherwise available only in a racing car like the Audi R18. That’s why we developed the interior around the ideal driver’s position in the center. Nevertheless, our aim was to also give the AI:RACE a high degree of everyday usability, not just for the driver, but also for a potential passenger.”

The AI:RACE is 4.53 meters long, 2 meters wide and just 1.15 meters tall (14.5 x 6.4 x 4.6 ft). These dimensions alone speak of a classical sports car. The wheelbase is 2.70 meters (8.9 ft) and the overhangs are compact. Wide and flat light units with integrated digital matrix technology and laser high-beam headlights complete the face of the AI:RACE.

Powering the futuristic concept are three electric motors – one in the front and two at the back. Audi, sticking to its quattro roots, divides the output of the AI: RACE accordingly. Though the maximum power output stands at 500kW, the driver can temporarily churn out an additional 70kW with boosting. The AI: RACE makes a combined peak torque of 830Nm, that propels the car from a standstill to 100kmph in barely more than 2 seconds.

As mentioned earlier, the AI: RACE supports wireless charging and is designed to charge with 800 volts. The Audi Wireless Charging (AWC) works by placing a charging pad with integral coil on the floor where the car is to be parked, and connecting it to the power supply. The alternating magnetic field induces an alternating voltage in the secondary coil fitted in the floor of the car, across the air gap.

The German luxury carmaker will be manufacturing the AI: RACE in a limited production run. There are 50 units expected to be produced in total and will be sold to exclusive customers.

Honda Africa Twin: The definition of off-roading renewed!

If you are into luxury vehicles but like to take them off the road, this motorcycle could be your dream come true. Honda Motorcycle and Scooter India Pvt Ltd has officially begun the delivery of the latest iteration of the Africa Twin Adventure Sports. It is the Japanese motorcycle manufacturer’s flagship adventure-tourer and is the first 1000cc ‘Make in India’ model by Honda Motorcycle and Scooter India.

The motorcycle is also the company’s first BSVI-compliant big bike in India. It was first launched in 2017 and has since garnered over 200 customers in the country. Its latest iteration was launched in March 2020 by Ricky Brabec (Reigning 2020 Dakar Rally World Champion from Monster Energy Honda Team).

Honda has made the 2020 Africa Twin better than before, making it smaller, slimmer and 5 kg lighter. This delivers 12 percent more peak power, 11 percent more peak torque and 10 percent increased power to weight ratio. It also gets cruise control via Throttle by Wire (TBW), as well as wheelie control, rear lift control and 3-stage cornering lights. The motorcycle also gets a bigger engine, new lightweight chassis, new electronics and new suspension units. Other updates include a bigger 24.8-litre fuel tank, 5-stage adjustable windscreen and heated grips. Honda has also equipped the motorcycle with Apple CarPlay, which can be accessed via a 6.5-inch MID TFT touch screen.

Speaking on this occasion, Mr. Yadvinder Singh Guleria, Director – Sales & Marketing, Honda Motorcycle & Scooter India Pvt. Ltd. said, “Starting the BSVI era of its premium motorcycle business, Honda introduced the brand new 2020 Africa Twin Adventure Sports in March this year. We are pleased to announce the first delivery to the proud #TrueAdventure lover. The 2020 Africa Twin Adventure Sports takes the ‘go anywhere’ spirit one step ahead. So, pack your bags & get ready as #TrueAdventure is back!”

For the first time, Honda has launched the Africa twin with the option of a manual gearbox. While the original Dual Clutch Transmission (DCT) unit gets the Darkness Black Metallic colour, the new manual option gets a Pearl Glare White colour. Honda is also offering genuine accessories such as top box, visor, quick shifter, main stand, rally step, engine guard, front fog light, and a smoked wind screen for both the variants.

If you are looking to go for dedicated off-roading, the DCT variant poses as a better option, simply due to the option of changing gears with your hands. This will help the rider shift gears when it is not possible for him to reach the footpegs, such as while water wading. Other riders who wish to enjoy all the benefits of the motorcycle without shelling out extra can opt for the manual transmission option.

The Africa Twin has already set the benchmark as a potent off-roader in India. Now, with a relatively cheaper alternative of the manual transmission, the motorcycle is expected to garner a larger audience, especially fans of the manual gearbox. It commands an ex-showroom price tag of Rs 15,35,000, while its DCT counterpart sells for Rs 16,10,000 (ex-showroom).

Planning a road trip to America? You can take this route!

If you have ever dreamt of taking a long drive or going on a road trip, you must have probably pictured going to the tips of our country, or crossing the border into the neighbouring nation. But have you ever considered travelling halfway across the world without leaving the road? Well, it seems Russia plans on turning that dream to reality.

As per a report in The Siberian Times, Vladimir Yakunin has proposed a plan for a trans-Siberian highway. The Russian Railways president stated that the highway would link Russia’s eastern border with Alaska, an American state. This highway crosses a narrow stretch of the Bering Sea, which separates Asia and North America. It would connect Russia with North America via Russia’s far eastern Chukotka region, across the Bering Strait and into Alaska’s Seward Peninsula.

Vladimir Yakunin. Image: The Siberian Times

It is called the Trans-Eurasian Belt Development (TEPR) and should be constructed along the existing Trans-Siberian Railway, along with gas pipelines and a new network of trains for oil. The highway is expected to run across the entirety of Russia and will connect with existing road systems in Western Europe and Asia.

Viktor Sadovnichy, rector of the Moscow State University, said the network would help the Far East and Siberia feel more in touch with the rest of the world. He said: ‘Recently I returned from Khabarovsk, where I met with rectors of universities of the Far East – about 100 of them in total.

Russia’s western and eastern borders are separated by almost 10,000 kilometres of land and is connected by the Trans-Siberian railway. It runs from Moscow to Vladivostok and covers 9,258 kilometers. If the highway connects Europe to the US, it should take about 13,000 kms for a road trip from London to Alaska via Moscow.

Now though the idea seems like a dream come true for many, it will take a long time to be realized. The project is expected to cost trillions of dollars and will be one of the most comprehensive projects around the world. Yakunin is supposed to be a close friend of Russian President Vladimir Putin, which could mean a national interest in this project. He also stated that the project would give massive economic returns that will compensate for the massive investment.

If and when this project turns to reality, it would be a massive opportunity for automobile enthusiasts around the world to exchange their cultures. While cross-country trips are possible and undertaken by a few fanatics, it is not feasible for most. The extreme costs of crossing the borders, coupled with exhaustive hours of driving and multiple weather conditions discourage many.

Lamborghini Squadra Corse SCV12: The Italian’s newest stallion

This lockdown has bored most of us almost to death and we don’t have much to rejoice about. Luckily, a new hypercar has been teased to rejuvenate your spirits and make you smile again. If you are a Lamborghini collector and you are wondering which one to add to your collection next, this has to be exciting news for you. For track enthusiasts, this is even better news. The Italian luxury car manufacturer has unleashed its latest track-only weapon today. Called the Squadra Corse SCV12, it features the company’s most powerful V12 engine to date.

Lamborghini Squadra Corse’s GT motorsports expertise, using its racing experience has created the car with a clear track intent. Several aspects of the SCV12 have been developed particularly for the hypercar, with specific racing solutions devised by Squadra Corse engineers, including a new fully carbon fibre chassis that allows for a greater power-to-weight ratio as well as the best handling and circuit driving experience.

Since the SCV12 is a track-only car, it does not feature compulsory street elements such as lights. Instead, the engineers have optimized every component of the car to improve its performance. For instance, The SCV12’s front bonnet has a double air intake and a central rib directing airflow to the ram-air intake scoop located on the roof. It also has a prominent splitter at the front, lateral flicks and vertical fins on the side sills, while at the rear is a custom-built carbon fibre rear wing.

The SCV12 has completed its development program and is now ready to hit the track for its world première, scheduled for summer 2020. It will be assembled entirely within the Lamborghini Squadra Corse factory in Sant’Agata Bolognese, as a limited edition.

Customers will become members of a very exclusive club: they will participate in advanced driving programs at some of the world’s most prestigious circuits, with the technical assistance of Squadra Corse engineers and the special tutoring of Emanuele Pirro, five-time winner of the 24 Hours of Le Mans and Lamborghini Squadra Corse Special Projects Consultant.

We cannot wait to check the car out at the first opportunity we get. Till then, all we can do is drool over its photos and wait with all eagerness!

Luxury Cars that adorn Indian Roads

Luxury cars in India have always been considered to be elite. Hence, though Indian automobile market is open to a plethora of cars from global car brands, some manufacturers prefer to focus on the niche and elite crowd and offer some premium models. Each manufacturer offers multiple models across different segments and customers have a lot to choose from, but luxury models are not an everyday sight on Indian roads.These are not only expensive to buy, they’re also difficult to drive. Their sheer power combined with unmatched luxury automatically place their owners a notch above the rest. Here are some of the best luxury cars that adorn Indian roads:

1.AMG C 43 Coupe

Mercedes-Benz, who specializes in ultra-luxury cars, is offering the C 43 Coupe. It is not an ordinary C-Class though, as it has been specially tuned by the German manufacturer’s special division, Mercedes-AMG. Its lower ride height, frameless doors and sloping roofline differentiate it from the ordinary, while its four exhaust tips give the car a mean look. The immense power of its twin-turbocharged engine is commanded by five driving modes, while the car itself commands a steep price tag of Rs 75 lakh (ex-showroom).

2.BMW Z4 M40i

German car manufacturer BMW has made the Z4 with only one motive: to give the owner as much fun as possible. Armed with a powerful engine, it is offered as a two-door convertible sports car. This means you can look rich, go fast and have an open rooftop! It also has 10 loudspeakers, giving any music enthusiast an unforgettable experience. Its ex-showroom price tag of Rs 78.9 lakh also means that you will not see another model similar to yours anytime soon.

3.Jaguar XJ50

Jaguar’s recent addition to its lineup was the luxury sedan XJ50. However, it is not just another car, but a celebration of 50 years of the XJ being on sale in the international market. The British carmaker has retained its signature XJ styling, but has amped up the luxury parameter considerably. Packed with premium features, the car offers the thrill of high-speed with the comfort of safety. Combined with an ex-showroom price tag of Rs 1.12 crore, the XJ50 will surely give the owner an experience that money can’t buy.

4.Porsche 911 Carrera S

Among the fastest cars sold in India, the Porsche 911 Carrera S offers an unparalleled experience to its owner. Its exclusivity and rarity mean it’s a paparazzi magnet, with every other motorist redder than the car with jealousy. It has an immersive Bose sound system, though the rumble of its beastly engine can still be faintly heard. An authentic two-door coupe, the car has an ex-showroom price tag well above Rs 2 crore, ensuring that it will only be with the truly luxurious!

Driving any of these cars on the road will not only ensure a wide berth on the road from other vehicles, but also luxury unlike any other. Each manufacturer of these cars has put special effort and technology in their making and this makes the models exclusive to their owner.

Car Brands That Redefine Luxury

Automobiles have long been a symbol of wealth, with even the simplest of cars being the objects of pride. Over the years, the industry has evolved from limited and niche brands to full-blown luxurious pieces of art. While cars became available to the public and hence lost their exclusivity, car brands rose to make their products even fancier, even better and even costlier.

Luxury cars have always been kept apart from the general category, as a castle separates the king from his people. They have also been called special names– ‘auto di lusso’ in Italy or ‘voiture de luxe’ in France, both meaning luxury cars. The Germans call them Oberklasse which directly means “upper class”.

Many car brands across the world manufacture models across multiple segments. Automobile giants like Volkswagen and General Motors even have plants worldwide. In order to segregate the luxurious cars from the mass-produced models, many car brands often choose to sell their luxuries under a different banner. This has led to Toyota forming Lexus and Nissan forming Infiniti, among others. Even popular brands like Citroen, Ford and Geely have DS, Lincoln and Volvo respectively.

However, car brands have always competed to extend their luxuries to as many segments as possible, creating further division in luxury cars.

There are entry-level luxury cars, also known as Premium compacts. These became popular in the mid-2000s after European manufacturers introduced a cheaper alternative to their bigger luxury cars. Some models in this category are the Audi A3, Mercedes-Benz GLA, BMW X2, Lexus CT2000h and the Volvo C30. These cars might be smaller than their executive siblings, but they’re at par in luxury.
Then come the compact luxury cars that are also smaller than their executive siblings and can also be called compact executive cars. It includes Alfa Romeo’s Giulia, Tesla’s Model 3 and the Infiniti Q50, among others.
The Executives are bigger than the prior two and act as a gateway to ultra-luxury. Executive car is a British term for an automobile larger than a large family car. Jaguar XF and Volvo S90 are some examples in this segment.
Germany’s Oberklasse segment and Europe’s F-segment are reserved for full-size luxury sedans. Most of them are flagship models of the company and feature the newest technology that the car brands have to offer. Also called luxury saloon or luxury limousine, these include the BMW 7 Series, the Mercedes-Benz S-Class, the Lexus LS and the Porsche Panamera, among others.
The Ultra-luxury segment is reserved for the elite, with all cars costing well above the Rs 10 crore mark. Here car brands offer models that will focus primarily on offering as much luxury as possible,making almost each piece unique to its owner. Names like the Rolls-Royce Phantom, Maybach 57 and the Bentley Arnage are enough to tell people one thing: You got deep pockets.

These are the car brands that will help you redefine luxury. Each car falling under this segment has not only been manufactured to carry its passengers, it has been made to set standards of luxury and style.

Electric Cars: The Luxurious Future

Electric cars have gained global recognition over the years, due to the rapid depletion of fossil fuels and the ever-rising demand of personal cars. While it has become important for manufacturers to look for an alternate power source, they’re also looking at adding luxury to the segment.

Electric cars are considered to be the future of the automobile industry, mainly due to their practically unlimited potential. When Mahindra came up with REVA-I for the Indian market, it went quite unnoticed because of its small, diminutive structure, cramped and awkward seating position, and an all-electric drive. This was the first stint of an electric car operating in India. However, the international market is seeing a flooding of electric car across multiple segments, with luxury cars getting special attention.

Tesla’s range of fully electric cars have paved the way for other manufacturers since 2003. The Model S, Model 3 and Model X are some of the most iconic models from the company, while Elon Musk recently confirmed that Tesla’s five-seater Model Y is set to be relaunched as a seven-seater version this year.

Probably early Q4

— Elon Musk (@elonmusk) June 21, 2020

The company is also the manufacturer of the Tesla Roadster, which is the quickest car in the world. Its latest addition, the Cybertruck promises to revolutionize the world of pickup trucks, merging it with the luxury segment.

Though Tesla is widely regarded as the pioneer and most successful electric car manufacturer, it hasn’t dissuaded other manufacturers from trying. Jaguar became the first mainstream manufacturer to break Tesla’s monopoly at high-end luxury SUVs. The Jaguar I-Pace, whose base models sells for Rs 50 lakh while the top trim demands Rs 61 lakh, offers outstanding performance coupled with unmatched luxury. Hyundai too tried their failsafe i20 chassis, giving it the name Hyundai Kona. Indian brands were not to be left out either, with giants like Tata and Mahindra coming up with a fleet of EVs of their own.

Along with Indian conglomerates, international manufacturers have also invested their resources in the research and development of fully electric cars. Porsche’s first-ever electric car, the Taycan is a four-door grand tourer that borrows the looks of a Panamera, but is a whole another deal in terms of performance. Even after being the first electric car of the company, it gets a befitting price range of Rs 1.1 crore to Rs 1.4 crore for the Turbo S version. BMW also has its share of EVs, among them being the two-door sports car, the i8. It gets an additional flair of luxury with butterfly doors.

Not to be left behind, Aston Martin has also declared its entrance in the electric car market. With an all-electric Rapide sedan that is ready for production, the company is looking to redefine electric performance and luxury. While it has not been officially announced yet, it is expected to make its way to the Indian market post launch.

On one hand while IC engines are the best option for cars at the moment, the possibility of a completely electric future of automobiles in India does not seem bleak anymore. Coupled with the ambitious plans to make India an all-electric nation by 2030, we might be looking at the next revolution in automotive history.