Car Sales February 2020: Maruti Suzuki Sales Drop By 3.6 Per Cent, Exports Up By 7.1 Per Cent

The decline in sales across segment is clearly due to negative customer sentiments resulting into low demand in the market. Over 78 per cent of Maruti's product line-up is BS6 complaint now and there...

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Flashback: LG G3 pioneered 1440p phone screens and Laser AF

The LG G2 showed the world that a screen with thin bezels is a great thing. The LG G3 pushed that design further with a larger and sharper display - the first 1440p panel in the industry. And it came surprisingly fast. LG G3 The HTC Butterfly had the first 1080p screen on mobile, it came out in January 2013. A year and a half later, the G3 arrived with the first-ever 1440p display. Technically, Oppo announced the Find 7 first, but LG was first to market so we think it's fair to call the G3 "first". The 5.5-inch "True HD-IPS+" LCD panel had a pixel density of 534ppi, which is...

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Realme 6 Pro Launch Date, Samsung Galaxy M31, and More Tech News This Week

Realme 6 Pro and Realme 6 launch date reveal and Samsung Galaxy M31 dominated the conversation in a rather busy week in terms of tech news development.

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Polestar Precept unveiled ahead of Geneva debut

The Polestar Precept is an electric, four-door grand tourer that previews the design of future Polestar models, as well as highlighting the Swedish company’s plans for sustainable materials and advanced digital technology.

To be revealed at the Geneva motor show, the Precept is said to signify an important milestone for Polestar as a standalone brand (away from parent company Volvo), and reflect its values of “pure, progressive and performance”.

The Polestar 1, a limited-run plug-in hybrid coupé, and the Polestar 2, an electric fastback for the mass market, will shortly be followed by an electric SUV, the Polestar 3. The Precept, however, gives a broader hint at Polestar’s future design direction. The 1 and 2 were heavily guided by Volvo design, while the Precept is intended to demonstrate a move away from its parent firm’s styling influence – and potentially a future Tesla Model S rival.

The low, sleek silhouette has a lengthy wheelbase of 3.1m – some 150mm longer than that of the Model S – to allow for a large battery and “an emphasis” on rear head and leg room, Polestar claims. In place of a front grille, the Precept has a so-called Smartzone that houses sensors, cameras and driver assistance functions behind a transparent panel. A lidar pod is placed on the glass roof for best visibility and is intended to be “a next step towards increased driving assistance”.

Following in the footsteps of the Audi E-tron and Honda E, the Precept has video cameras in place of conventional side mirrors. Also, the glass roof extends backward, so there’s no conventional rear window and the tailgate has a larger opening and higher-mounted hinges for better access.

Inside, the Precept uses flax-based composites for its panels and seatbacks, achieving a saving in weight of up to 50 percent and a reduction in plastic weight of up to 80 percent over conventional materials. The seat upholstery is 3D-knitted from recycled PET bottles; bolsters and headrests are made from recycled cork vinyl; and carpets are made from reclaimed fishing nets.

The next-gen infotainment system, powered by Android and building on Polestar’s partnership with Google, uses a 15-inch portrait-orientated central touchscreen and a 12.5-inch digital instrument display. The two are linked by an illuminated blade that surrounds the cabin, while a holographic Polestar logo floats inside Swedish crystal between the rear headrests. The instrument display uses smart sensors, including eye tracking, to monitor the driver’s gaze and adjust what the screens show accordingly.

Polestar CEO Thomas Ingenlath said: “The Precept is a declaration, a vision of what Polestar stands for and what makes the brand relevant. The car is a response to the clear challenges our society and industry face. “This isn’t a dream of a distant future: the Precept previews future vehicles and shows how we will apply innovation to minimise our environmental impact.”

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2020 Honda Unicorn: 5 things to know

Let’s begin with a brief history of the Unicorn. The bike was launched all the way back in 2004 and it continued largely unchanged for over a decade. Honda then attempted to replace it with the superior CB Unicorn 160 in 2015, but a few issues with the early lots of motorcycles killed its reputation. Heavy demand forced Honda to bring back the original Unicorn 150, and the bike continued to sell in good numbers. With a new CB suffix to the name, the Unicorn 150 went on to receive a BS4 update and ABS as well, when the law mandated it. The Unicorn is a sales giant having sold over 2.5 million units in its 16 years of existence.

 As for the CB Unicorn 160, Honda simply didn’t give it the necessary ABS update in 2018 and the motorcycle quietly died. Now with the big transition to BS6, Honda faced the decision as to whether to make the big investment in upgrading the CB Unicorn 150 to BS6 or to give the CB Unicorn 160 a second chance. The approach they’ve taken is a combination of both options, which brings us to our first point you need to know.

This is a new product

For 2020, Honda has dropped the CB prefix as well as the numerical suffix, and has simply called the bike the Unicorn. What the company has done is take the 162cc engine from the CB Unicorn 160 and install it in a motorcycle that looks like the old 150. Details on the chassis are not clear, but it appears that Honda has utilised the main frame from the 160, because at 140kg, the new Honda Unicorn is a whole 6kg lighter than the CB Unicorn 150. This is a similar case to the CB Unicorn 160, which also weighed significantly lesser than the 150 when it was launched. Another similarity is that the new Unicorn comes with a longer seat (by 24mm) than the original 150, and this was also something that the CB Unicorn 160 offered.

However, there are numerous other specifications that are more in line with the old Honda CB Unicorn 150. For starters, the seat height is identical at 798mm and the bike continues to use 18-inch wheels, against the 17-inch units on the Unicorn 160. At 1,335mm, the wheelbase is also almost identical, and is a good 11mm longer than the CB Unicorn 160. And finally, we come to an aspect that is important to buyers in this segment – ground clearance. There’s good news here too, and the new Honda Unicorn 160 boasts 187mm of clearance, which is an 8mm increase over the old bike, and just 13mm lower than the KTM 390 Adventure. Clearly, the new Unicorn has many similarities to the old CB Unicorn 150, but the biggest similarity is one we’ll address in the next point.

It looks almost identical to the 150

Honda is being extremely safe here, and after they burned their fingers with the CB Unicorn 160, they’re taking zero chances with the new Unicorn. At first glance, you’d struggle to tell any differences; the new Honda Unicorn looks almost identical to its forefather. However, a closer look will reveal that the headlamp cowl gets slightly different detailing and the side plastic panels receive a small redesign as well. Beyond this, everything remains the same, including the 13-litre fuel tank and the analogue meters, although the latter now gets a grey colour detailing instead of blue as on the old bike. As for the colours, even this is very similar, and you get a choice of three colours – red, grey and black.

It will be quicker than before

The 162cc motor in the CB Unicorn 160 produced 14.02hp/ and 13.92Nm, compared to the CB Unicorn 150’s 12.92hp and 12.8Nm. While the new Unicorn uses the same 162cc motor with identical bore and stroke figures, it now gets fuel injection and makes 12.92hp, which is exactly the same as the old Unicorn. While that may disappoint, the interesting number to note is that it makes 14Nm of  torque (at the same 5,500rpm as the Unicorn 150), and this figure is higher than both the Unicorn 160 and the old 150. Factor in that this bike is lighter than the Unicorn 150, and it is safe to expect a slightly improved performance. Fuel efficiency could also see an increase, although Honda doesn’t seem to be making any claims with regard to this, apart from mentioning the words ‘superior efficiency’ in the press release.

Light on features

Every new Honda launch these days appears to bring in a big serving of new features, but that's not the case here. The only changes are the incorporation of an engine-kill switch and a switch to a DC headlamp. However, you won’t find any features like an LED headlamp, side-stand-down engine kill function, or a digital instrument console. In fact, the new Unicorn doesn’t even get Honda’s new silent-start system, which is a nice feature found in new scooters as well as the new Unicorn’s less-expensive BS6 siblings like the new Honda Shine and SP 125.

Heavy on price

At Rs 93,593, the new Honda Unicorn is nearly Rs 13,000 more than the ABS-equipped CB Unicorn 150. That’s a big hike, and while you do get the improved powertrain and a few more comforts, the fact that the 2020 Honda Unicorn looks nearly identical, while not offering a lot more than the bike it replaces, will be hard pill for customers to swallow. Then again, the Unicorn’s closest rival, the Bajaj Pulsar 150 BS6 actually costs about Rs 1000 more, so it would appear that this is simply the new world order in the BS6 era.

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Xiaomi Black Shark 3 triple main camera shines through in a new drawing and a live photo

Xiaomi is expected to take the wrapping off of its new Black Shark 3 gaming handset in just a few days, on March 3 and naturally, the leaks have been intensifying accordingly. While cameras are understandably not going of be the main focus of this device, it is still good to get at least part of the scoop early. A new rough drawing of the phone has surfaced online, offering a better look at its back design, including what is a rather particular arrangement of a triple-camera setup. #Xiaomi #blackshark3 #blackshark3pro This is what the new gaming smartphone will look like. The render of the...

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Maruti Suzuki Vitara Brezza: New vs old

When it was first unveiled in production form at Auto Expo 2016, few would’ve expected the Maruti Suzuki Vitara Brezza to be the runaway hit it turned out to be. In four years, Maruti Suzuki sold well over 5 lakh units of the Vitara Brezza, which has (for the most part) cemented its position at the top of the compact SUV sales chart. Now, as the company transitions into a petrol-only era ahead of the BS6 deadline, the Vitara Brezza has received a midlife update – but what exactly is new on the updated model compared to the outgoing Brezza? We tell you about all that’s different on the 2020 Vitara Brezza in this piece.

Design, interior and features – Same same, but different

Those who’d hoped Maruti Suzuki would roll out extensive design changes with the facelifted Vitara Brezza may have been a bit disappointed with the model that debuted at Auto Expo 2020. The Brezza’s upright stance and square-jawed face hit the right note with buyers, and Maruti decided against making any radical changes to a successful design. New on the facelifted Brezza are LED projector headlights accentuated by LED daytime-running lights, a chunky, four-slot chrome grille, redesigned front bumper with larger housings for the LED fog lamps, a reshaped faux skid plate and a silver-finished element shaped to look like a bull bar. Also new for the 2020 model are 16-inch precision-cut alloy wheels and LED tail-lights, as well as two new colour options – Torque Blue and Sizzling Red. All in all, even after the update, the Vitara Brezza remains largely identical to the pre-facelift model on the outside, and the subtle changes will only be noticed by the keen-eyed.

 

On the inside, too, Maruti Suzuki has refrained from making any major changes. The dash of the facelifted Brezza is identical to that of the pre-facelift model, and the only difference worth noting is that the facelift gets Maruti’s new SmartPlay Studio infotainment system.  Everything else – including the 2020 Brezza’s features list – remains the same as before.

Engine – from diesel-only to petrol-only

The most important change for the Vitara Brezza facelift is the fact that it now gets a sole petrol engine option. The pre-facelift model was powered by the 1.3-litre DDiS diesel that's now been phased out ahead of the implementation of BS6 emission norms, and replacing it is the BS6-compliant, 1.5-litre K15B petrol that also powers the Ertiga, XL6 and Ciaz. Power output for the 1.5 petrol (105hp) is notably higher than the 1.3 diesel (90hp), but torque – rated at 138Nm for the petrol – is significantly lower than the diesel’s 200Nm. In terms of gearbox options, a 5-speed manual is standard, but the automatic gearbox is now a four-speed torque converter unit, unlike the diesel’s AMT. An important point to note is the automatic version of the Vitara Brezza facelift comes with Maruti Suzuki’s fuel-saving Smart Hybrid tech as standard, which results in the AT variant having a higher official fuel efficiency figure (18.76kpl) than the MT (17.03kpl). That said, both mileage figures are significantly lower than that of the diesel, which was rated at 24.3kpl.

 

Price – No excise benefits

While the shift from a diesel to a petrol engine is in line with Maruti Suzuki’s plan going forward, the 1.5-litre petrol engine means the Vitara Brezza no longer qualifies for excise duty benefits extended to models measuring under 4 metres in length, and that has a direct implication on its price. 

 

Despite petrols generally being more affordable than diesels, at Rs 7.34 lakh, the Maruti Suzuki Vitara Brezza petrol range starts just Rs 29,000 lower than the outgoing Brezza diesel range. In fact, the Brezza range now tops out at Rs 11.40 lakh for the ZXi+ AT variant; roughly Rs 80,000 higher than the most expensive Brezza diesel variant there was. At this price, the Brezza facelift is pricier than the Tata Nexon facelift, and within striking distance of the top-spec automatic versions of the Ford EcoSport and Hyundai Venue 1.0-litre turbo-petrol .

It’s clear that despite giving the Brezza a notable update, Maruti Suzuki has chosen to not mess with a winning formula. However, what remains to be seen is if the petrol-powered Vitara Brezza can hold sway over a majority of compact SUV buyers like the pre-facelift diesel Brezza did.

Also see:

Maruti Suzuki Vitara Brezza facelift launched at Rs 7.34 lakh

Maruti Suzuki Vitara Brezza facelift price, variants explained

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Chinese car sales down by 92 percent in first half of February

The Coronavirus epidemic has been in the news over the past few months not only for the threat it poses but also for its adverse impact on various sectors of global economies, especially in China. Now as per a report by Reuters, the sales in the Chinese car market has dropped by a massive 92 percent in the first 16 days of February, when compared to the same duration last year.

According to China Passenger Car Association's (CPCA) data, the first 16 days of February resulted in sales of only 4,909 units, which is a stark contrast to the 59,930 units sold in China during the same time in 2019. The CPCA also stated that “very few dealerships opened in the first weeks of February and they have had very little customer traffic”, and this could be one of the reasons for such poor sales performance.

The China Association of Automobile Manufacturers (CAAM), told Reuters last week that unless the Coronavirus epidemic is effectively contained by April 2020, the market is likely to see more than a 10 percent decline in sales for the first half of 2020, while the overall drop for the whole year is expected to be close to 5 percent.

China’s commerce ministry has stated it will introduce more measures in the country to aid the consumption in the automotive sector.

In addition to the market, other major events related to the sector have also been affected like the 2020 Chinese GP has been postponed due to the Coronavirus threat. Even the Geneva motor show  has been cancelled due to the threat from the virus. While the Auto Expo held in early February, acknowledge the dangers of the virus, though took place as per schedule.

India's auto industry has also been affected by the outbreak, with TVS already stating that its February production will be 10 percent lower due to the virus.

As things stand, the number of Coronavirus cases is still on the rise, with the global death toll in excess of 2,000.

Also see:

Coronavirus outbreak could disrupt vehicle production in India

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Airtel Says Rs. 8,000 Crores Payment Complies With Supreme Court's Order

Airtel said it was complying with a Supreme Court order to pay dues, after it paid more than Rs. 8,000 crores ($1.10 billion) to the Department of Telecommunications (DoT) on Saturday.

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TVS iQube Electric Scooter First Ride Review

We spend some time with TVS Motor Company's new electric scooter, the TVS iQube, at the Hosur manufacturing facility test track.

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Review: TVS iQube review, test ride

What is it?

It’s only been two months into 2020, and we’re already riding the third new electric two-wheeler from a big name. We are finally getting options, and how! The one in question here is called iQube and almost refreshingly, it doesn’t come from a brand that was just formed a few months ago to sell us rebranded Chinese products. The iQube scooter marks TVS’ proper foray into the Indian electric two-wheeler space. Yes, TVS beginning its shift to e-mobility is a big deal, but what we were more curious about is if the iQube itself makes as much of an impact.

What does it look like?

Ever since the iQube was unveiled, it’s been drawing in polarising comments about the styling. To best describe it, it looks like it's been designed to be a futuristic product, but one that’s been designed close to a decade ago. And that’s not far from the truth really, TVS did showcase it in concept form back in 2012. Now while that may sound negative, it isn’t. The narrow, horizontal headlight and tail-light look unique and almost Robocop-like. The rest of the design is extremely simple, and it almost feels like TVS has purposely opted to go this route as conventional designs attract buyers of a wider age demographic. We’ve seen the company take a similar approach with its popular 110cc scooter, the Jupiter.

While we don't have a problem with the design, there were a few small areas where the quality levels were inconsistent, but this could be because the scooters we were riding were initial test bikes. We'll reserve final judgement when we get to spend some time with the production models.

How does it ride?

On the move, the scooter will leave you quite impressed, especially when it comes to acceleration. The hub-mounted motor is made by Bosch and has a peak power output of 4.4kW. This is a fair amount higher than that of the Chetak’s 4.08kW motor, but the iQube's throttle response feels instant and is not as softly delivered as the Bajaj when you first open the accelerator. However, it's more along the lines of immediate, rather than jerky, and while I suspect it might take some getting used to, I don't think this will be a problem.

What is really nice is that acceleration in both modes (Economy and Power) is the same. The only difference between the two is the limit on the top speed. In Economy, you can go up to 45kph, and this is also where TVS is claiming that you will get a range of 75km. Top speed, meanwhile, will go up to a speedo-indicated 80kph in Power mode, but the range is said to go down to 55km here. What we also liked is how the performance doesn’t go down drastically with a drop in charge. I managed to hit a speedo-indicated 70kph even with just 16km of range remaining, according to the TFT display. Thankfully, the iQube also doesn’t cut throttle input when you are on the brakes, like almost all Chinese scooters do, which means low-speed manoeuvres won’t be a problem.

Hub-mounted motors are usually considered inferior to frame-mounted units, but the iQube seems to have no problem. I managed to climb a 10-degree incline with a pillion and on low charge at about 35kph, which isn’t bad. Another setback usually experienced in using hub-mounted motors is that they upset the weight distribution of a two-wheeler. Since a lot of the weight is at the rear wheel, it doesn’t feel like a natural two-wheeler, but TVS has done a good job masking this. The battery is non-removable, but TVS has cleverly split it into three different packs, with one of them positioned under the footboard. This brings some of the weight-bias towards the front and the company also says that the way the twin rear shock absorbers have been tuned to help the iQube feel more natural.

Natural it does. We had the opportunity to carry a good amount of speed through the corners at the company's test track and the scooter didn’t feel nervous or twitchy at all. The grippy TVS tyres on the 12-inch wheel at both ends also helped improve stability. Lastly, the 220m front disc and 130mm drum brake were quite effective and got the 118kg (slightly higher than the Ntorq 125) scooter to a standstill quite quickly.

What features does it get?

As has become the standard with electric vehicles, the iQube gets LED powered lights all around. These appeared to be quite bright in the daytime, but we’ll have to put the headlight to the test when we get the scooter for a road test. Speaking of lights, the iQube also gets one under the seat, but it only lights up with the key in the ignition. This means you need to remove the key from the seat lock at the side of the scooter and put it back into the ignition to light up the boot. Like many other scooters these days, you also get a USB charging slot under the seat. While TVS is claiming that the underseat storage space fits a full-face helmet, my international-spec didn’t, but this is the case with almost all scooters.

Moving on to one of the biggest highlights of this scooter – the TFT instrumentation. It gets Bluetooth connectivity and the screen graphics are legible, even under direct sunlight. The dedicated iQube app, along with the Bluetooth function, shows incoming call alerts, SMS notification and turn-by-turn navigation on the screen. The app also features Geo fencing, trip data recording, battery charge status, range and a lot more. What can also be seen via this screen is the scooter’s park assist function, which will let you creep it forward or in reverse.

It certainly feels more premium than the LCD display on the Bajaj Chetak and on par with the one on the Ather. However, the screen takes quite a long time to start and we hope a future OTA update fixes this issue.

Every iQube also comes with a home charger that’s included in the price. It takes about 5 hours to charge the battery and there’s no fast-charging option. Also, this home charger is RFID-activated, which ensures that nobody misuses it when it's unattended. The charger, battery packs, and the battery management system have been built completely in house, except for the cells in the battery packs that have been sourced from LG in Korea.

Should I buy one?

At Rs 1.15 lakh (on road, Bengaluru), the TVS iQube is a little cheaper than the top-spec Bajaj Chetak and significantly more affordable than the new Ather 450X, although you have to factor the annual subscription cost that TVS will introduce sometime in the future. This subscription cost too is expected to be much less than what Ather is asking for, and we're told it might be somewhere around Rs 900 per year. At present, the scooter is only available in Bengaluru and TVS plans to introduce it across other cities in a phased manner.

That’s the iQube for you. In short, it’s a simple, quirky-looking city runabout, with the limited range being the only big drawback, and that's something we'll have to live with till battery technologies mature. If you can't wait that long, and only want to buy a product from a well-established Indian manufacturer, then this scooter is now the second option available to you.

Also see:

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Review: TVS iQube video review

Also see:

TVS iQube review, test ride

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Oppo A31 (2020) 4GB RAM Variant Goes on Sale in India: All You Need to Know

Oppo A31 (2020) phone was launched in India just a day ago, and it is now available to buy via several online site, as promised. Only the 4GB RAM option of the phone is currently up for sale.

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Yamaha XSR 155 Cafe Racer & Flat Tracker Body Kits Revealed For Indonesia

The Yamaha XSR 155 retro-styled motorcycle was launched in Indonesia last year, and now the company has introduced two new body kits. The new kits transform the XSR 155 into a cafe racer or a flat...

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Samsung Galaxy A11 appears in a render with punch hole display and triple rear cameras

Earlier this month, an image of the Samsung Galaxy A11's back panel surfaced, revealing a triple camera setup aligned vertically in the upper-left corner. Today, an official-looking press render has leaked, giving us our clearest look yet at the Galaxy A11 while also revealing a few more bits about it. The image reveals that Galaxy A11 will sport a display having a punch hole in the top-left corner. Around the back, we already know it will have a triple camera setup. But this time, we see an oval-shaped fingerprint reader on the panel. You can also see the power button and volume rocker...

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Kiara Advani, Manisha Koirala, Hayao Miyazaki, and More on Netflix in March

Kiara Advani in Karan Johar's Guilty, Manisha Koirala in Maska, Altered Carbon: Resleeved anime, Kaneez Surka in Ladies Up, Kingdom season 2, Elite season 3, Castlevania season 3, and several Studio...

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Zebronics Launches Smart PTZ Camera for Home Automation

Zebronics on Friday launched a new home automation smart camera that comes with Wi-Fi, pan, tilt, digital zoom, and AI features. It is priced at Rs. 3,599.

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A Teenager Tricked Twitter Into Verifying a Fake US Congressional Candidate

In a bizarre incident, a 17-year-old high school student got his Twitter account verified as a fake Republican candidate for 2020 US Presidential election.

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2020 Hyundai Creta Engine & Variants Revealed

The next-generation Hyundai Creta made its India debut at the 2020 Auto Expo and the compact SUV is scheduled to go on sale in the country on March 17, 2020. With the countdown begun for the launch,...

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Boeing Blames Incomplete Testing for Astronaut Capsule Woes

Boeing acknowledged Friday it failed to conduct full and adequate software tests before the botched space debut of its astronaut capsule late last year.

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Apple Closely Watching Coronavirus Outbreak in South Korea, Italy: CEO

Apple is closely watching how the coronavirus outbreak is unfolding in South Korea and Italy, where the company has suppliers, Chief Executive Officer Tim Cook said in an interview.

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Oppo Find X2 live images surface

As Oppo is getting ready to introduce the world to the Find X2 on March 6, the company has been teasing a lot of aspects of its next flagship smartphone (and its even more premium sibling, the Find X2 Pro). Now though, it's time to take a look at a bunch of leaked live images of the Find X2. Oppo Find X2 live images As you can see, the camera island on the back seems to protrude a lot from the phone's body, but at least it's not as wide as those on recent Samsungs. There's a periscope zoom module in there, up top, given away by the square opening and the "hybrid zoom"...

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Maruti Suzuki Vitara Brezza Facelift Review

The Maruti Suzuki Vitara Brezza facelift is here! We test drive the new Vitara Brezza and sample all the updates along with the new 1.5-litre petrol engine. Here's our review served fresh from the...

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Review: 2020 Maruti Suzuki Vitara Brezza BS6 petrol video review

Also see:

2020 Maruti Suzuki Vitara Brezza petrol review, test drive

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2020 Maruti Suzuki Vitara Brezza petrol review

2020 Maruti Suzuki Vitara Brezza petrol review

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Review: 2020 Maruti Suzuki Vitara Brezza petrol review, test drive

What is it?

In an ideal world, the Maruti Suzuki Vitara Brezza should have waltzed into the BS6 emissions era with a new 1.5-litre diesel engine in place of the older BS4 Fiat-sourced 1.3-litre diesel. However, things didn’t go to plan. Maruti Suzuki’s new in-house 1.5 diesel does not meet the latest emission standards and this forced the carmaker to take the tough decision to withdraw the engine after its very short stint under the hood of the Ciaz and Ertiga. As a consequence, come April 1, 2020, Maruti will have a petrol-only range and that also means a big change to the formerly diesel-only Brezza.  

Enter the Vitara Brezza petrol. It shares its BS6-compliant K15 1.5-litre engine with the Ciaz and Ertiga, and has the job of maintaining the Brezza’s position at the top of the compact SUV sales chart. Maruti, for its part, is confident the Brezza petrol will replace diesel volumes 1:1. Question is, does the new Brezza petrol have the same mass appeal as the original Brezza diesel? 

What’s it like to drive?

 

The Maruti Vitara Brezza’s 1.5-litre, naturally-aspirated petrol engine makes 105hp at 6000rpm and 138Nm at 4400rpm which aren’t shining figures for the compact SUV segment. However, in everyday driving you won’t have reason to complain. The engine is smooth and quiet, there’s enough pep at low speeds and there’s a pleasant, if unexciting, build of speed. Overtaking traffic won’t pose much of a problem either but what’s missing is that mid-range kick that you’d get on a turbocharged engine, the old Brezza’s diesel included. That being said, the Vitara Brezza petrol isn’t slow. In our preliminary tests, the Brezza petrol did the 0-100kph dash in a brisk 11.89 seconds (a Venue turbo needs 11.4 seconds), 20-80kph in third gear in a class-best 11.40 seconds and 40-100kph in fourth in a respectable 14.88 seconds.

The 1.5 petrol engine isn’t quick revving and tops out at just over 6000rpm. Still, keep your foot pinned down and you’ll like the way the engine winds in the top-end of the rev band. The throaty note from the engine also adds some character.   

The Brezza petrol’s standard fit 5-speed manual gearbox requires little effort and the light clutch is also easy to live with in town. Also on offer is an automatic transmission-equipped version that features a 4-speed torque converter. While not cutting edge, the transmission is more sophisticated than the old Brezza diesel’s AMT. Shifts on the Brezza petrol auto are smooth and the gearbox is well in tune with the engine’s easy-going character. Driving with a light foot will have the gearbox upshift to a higher gear for best economy. It’s when you want immediate power that the gearbox tends to falter, taking a bit of time to get to the right gear. For average needs, performance is more than acceptable.

Interestingly, the Brezza auto with an ARAI-tested fuel economy of 18.76kpl is more efficient than the manual that’s rated with 17.03kpl. Part of the reason is Suzuki’s SHVS mild-hybrid system that’s exclusive to the automatic versions. The system comprises an integrated starter generator and a lithium-ion battery, and adds in mild motor assist under hard acceleration, energy recuperation on deceleration and auto start/stop functionality.

In other areas too, the Vitara Brezza feels different from before. The steering is lighter and requires less effort to twirl while low speed bump absorption seems to have improved too. You don’t feel as much of the surface imperfections as before. On the flipside, the steering has also lost some of the older Vitara’s directness which takes away confidence at higher speeds. There’s also more vertical movement when you go faster.

What’s it like on the outside?

The Maruti Vitara Brezza gets an updated look for 2020. Sure, Maruti hasn’t tinkered with the compact SUV’s well accepted squarish stance and hasn’t made any sheet metal changes elsewhere either but there are still enough details to distinguish Brezzas old and new. Up front, the grille sports a new four slat design and there’s a thicker swathe of chrome too. Metal eyebrows add some sparkle to the familiar headlights but the bigger talking point is the upgrade to bright dual projector LED units, a first-in-segment feature. New LED daytime running lights that double up as the indicators and LED fog lights are also part of the new lighting package. The front bumper has also been redone with new fog lamp enclosures and a larger scuff plate.     

In profile, attractive new 16-inch precision cut alloy wheels are your only giveaway of this being the updated Brezza. LED elements for the revamped tail lamps and a larger scuff plate for the rear bumper complete the makeover. Maruti has added to the Brezza’s colour palette with the introduction of attractive Torque Blue and Sizzling Red (featured here) paint schemes. Top-spec ZXI+ versions get a black contrast roof and there’s also the new option of an Autumn Orange roof scheme. Further, there’s lots of accessories to personalise your Vitara Brezza.

 

What’s it like on the inside?

 

Not much has changed inside the Brezza’s interior. The simple but user-friendly dashboard has been retained as is, and the only real talking point is the incorporation of Maruti’s latest Smartplay Studio touchscreen infotainment system. Touch responses are significantly better now and the general layout of the menus is also easy enough to use on the go. There’s no eSIM-based connected tech but the system offers the option to use your phone’s internet connection to stream music, get weather updates and even get restaurant suggestions. That Android Auto and Apple CarPlay are included will suffice for most, though. A unique detail on the Brezza automatic is an infographic on the MID of the hybrid system at work.

As before, access to the Brezza’s cabin is convenient while the relatively high seating position and upright pillars give that all-important feel of driving an SUV. There’s plenty of room at the back and passengers will like the view out of the large windows too. A point to note on the automatic is that the lithium-ion battery’s position under the front passenger seat compromises foot space for the rear passenger. The boot is well shaped and should you need more space, there’s always the option to split the rear seat 60:40.

What features does it get?

The Brezza manual is available in four trims while the Brezza automatic is available in all but base LXI form. While it’s reassuring to know that Global NCAP rated the Brezza with 4 stars on adult protection, Maruti should have added in more safety kit with the update. The Brezza gets dual airbags, ABS and ISOFIX child seat mounts as standard. What’s nice is that LED lights are part of the package from the VXI trim up.

Top-spec ZXI+ versions are identifiable by their precision cut alloy wheels and optional dual-tone paint scheme. Comfort and convenience features include a 7.0-inch touchscreen infotainment system, reverse camera, auto headlights and wipers, auto climate control, auto-dimming mirror, keyless entry and go and a new leather-wrapped steering wheel. Sadly, rear air-con vents haven’t been added to the feature list.  

Should you buy one?

Maruti Suzuki Vitara Brezza petrol manual prices start at Rs 7.34 lakh and top off at Rs 9.98 lakh. Brezza automatic prices range from Rs 9.75 lakh to Rs 11.40 lakh. While the Brezza’s price tag is in line with that of rivals, it’s not as competitive as it ought to have been. The reason? The Brezza’s 1,462cc means Maruti’s compact SUV does not qualify for small car excise sops available to models with length under 4m and petrol engines with displacement under 1,200cc.

What the Brezza petrol lacks is novelty value. Yes, the facelift helps but there’s a nagging feeling that Maruti has missed a chance to up the cabin ambience and add in more features. The Brezza sticks too close to formula and doesn’t feel much more than the 2016 model rehashed for 2020.    

Still, the Brezza petrol has its strengths. The engine is better than the power and torque numbers might lend you to believe and refinement levels are far better than the noisy and clattery diesel’s. All said, the Maruti Suzuki Vitara Brezza petrol might not be a model that pulls at your heartstrings but it is practical, easy to live with and makes for an all-round sensible buy. And those are the reasons to be interested in one.

 

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PhotoGallery: 2020 Maruti Suzuki Vitara Brezza petrol image gallery

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FCC proposes over $208 million in fines for all major US carriers over selling customer location data

Early February, the FCC wrote a letter to the US Congress where it explained that "one or more" major US carriers was selling its customers' location data to some agencies. This practice was initially discovered back in 2018 and only how has the FCC done something to discourage it. On Friday, the FCC revealed that it was issuing a total of over $208 million in fines to all four major US carriers. T-Mobile is looking at $91 million in fines, AT&T faces $57 million, $48 million for Verizon, and Sprint may have to pay $12 million. Currently, these are proposed fines based on the FCC's...

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BPCL to have BS6 fuel at nozzle level by March 1, 2020

As the April 1, 2020 deadline for transition to BS6 emission norms nears, here is some good news for automobile users. State-owned Bharat Petroleum Corporation Limited (BPCL), which has over 15,400 fuel stations in its kitty, will be BS6-ready at nozzle level from March 1. The company will be starting its final leg of preparation from Wednesday or Thursday. The government-mandated new fuel emission deadline is from April 1.

R. Ramachandran, Director (Refinery) at BPCL said, "We are through with what we had to," while commenting on the preparedness level of the new emission norms which India is leapfrogging to.

Earlier this month, the country’s largest fuel retailer, Indian Oil Corporation (IOCL) claimed that more than 15,000 fuel retail centres, out of the total 27,000 in the country, are ready to dispense BS6 fuel at nozzle level. That works out to 55 percent of the fuel stations; the remaining ones are expected to be ready by early to mid-March.

Speaking at Global Electrification Mobility Summit, on the sidelines of Auto Expo 2020 in New Delhi, Dr SSV Ramakumar, director (R&D) and board member, Indian Oil Corporation, had said that 10 out of the total 11 refineries operated by IOCL are now ready to provide BS6-grade fuel.

Interestingly, India's oldest refinery, and also one of the oldest operating refinery in the world at Digboi, was the first to produce fuel for the BS6 era. Indian Oil accounts for nearly half of India's petroleum products market share, with sales of about 90 million tonnes in 2018-2019.  The company has more than 27,700 fuel stations (petrol pumps) across the country.

Will the increase in price pass on to consumers?

The industries executives claim that they are in discussion with the government over helping them (oil marketing companies) recover their investment for BS6 upgradation. According to industry insiders, state-owned oil marketing companies (OMCs) have invested around Rs 29,000 crore so far just for upgrading the refineries to produce cleaner BS6 fuels. While BPCL has invested over Rs 7,000 crore, IOCL has made a capital expenditure of around Rs 16,000- 16,500 crore. Hindustan Petroleum Corporation Limited (HPCL), on the other hand, has invested about Rs 5,000 crore for upgrading the refineries for BS6 fuels.

For BPCL, the entire upgradation has resulted in a price hike in its fuel, between 70 paise to Re 1 per litre. “We hope that this is built up in the retail price,” said a BPCL executive. The same executive said that this can be done with the government's mandate by way of cess, or a VGF, for a certain period of time. “However, it may not happen immediately as the market will find its own level of pricing at some time” the executive continued.

India could leverage from Coronavirus

According to Ramachandran, India should take advantage of the falling crude prices caused due to the Coronavirus outbreak. The excess crude supply is now available at a much cheaper rate, which will eventually lead to cheaper fuel for the end consumer.

Also see:

Over 50 percent Indian Oil Corporation outlets ready to dispense BS6 fuel

BS6 fuel available over entire Delhi-NCR

Bharat Petroleum begins doorstep delivery of diesel in Noida

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2020 Hyundai Creta features list revealed

AUTOCAR INDIA EXCLUSIVE

Hyundai is gearing up for the launch of one of the most significant models in its line-up, the all-new Creta, on March 17. As we inch closer to the big day, more and more details about the second-gen model keep seeing the light of day. And now, we’ve got our hands on the complete variant-wise features list of the upcoming SUV. So, read on to know what each trim level will have to offer.

In true Hyundai fashion, the 2020 Creta will be loaded to the gills with equipment. While the current-gen SUV has started to show its age, the new Creta will take the story forward in an attempt to get back to the number one position in the midsize SUV segment – a title which it has recently lost to the Kia Seltos.

The soon-to-be-launched Hyundai Creta will be available in five trim levels – E, EX, S, SX and SX(O) – and five powertrain options, adding up to 14 variants in total. Here is a complete break-up of the trim-wise features that can be expected.

E (1.5 diesel 6MT)

• Dual airbags
• ABS, EBD
• Rear parking sensors
• High speed alert system
• Front occupant seatbelt reminder
• Speed-sensing door locks
• Impact-sensing auto door unlock
• Projector headlamp
• Dual-tone bumper
• Black radiator grille
• Front and rear skid plate
• LED tail-lamps
• Body coloured rear spoiler
• Silver side sill garnish
• Silver B- and C-pillar garnish
• 3.5-inch mono TFT multi-info display
• Grey and black interior colour scheme
• D-cut (flat-bottom) steering wheel
• Tilt-adjustable steering
• 12V power outlet
• Height-adjustable driver’s seat
• Cooled glove box
• Manual air conditioner with ‘Eco coating’
• Rear air conditioner vents
• Central locking
• Remote locking
• All-round power windows
• Power adjustable wing mirrors
• Lane change indicator
• Gear-shift indicator (MT only)

EX (1.5 petrol 6MT, 1.5 diesel 6MT)

• Shark-fin antenna
• 8.0-inch touchscreen infotainment system with AM/FM, Bluetooth, i-Blue audio remote app, front USB charger
• Smartphone connectivity, voice recognition
• Arkamys sound system, 4 speakers, 2 tweeters
• Steering mounted audio and calling controls

S (1.5 petrol 6MT, 1.5 diesel 6MT)

• 16-inch styled steel wheels
• Front fog lamps
• Silver roof rails
• Glossy chrome front grille
• Full cloth seat fabric
• Metal finish on inside door handles
• Leather wrapped gear knob (MT only)
• Rear USB charger
• Rear parking camera
• Driver rear view monitor
• Automatic climate control
• Cruise control
• Keyless entry and push-button start
• Rear wiper with washer
• Auto light control
• Rear side-window manual curtains

SX (1.5 petrol 6MT and IVT, 1.5 diesel 6MT and 6AT, 1.4 turbo-petrol 7DCT)

• 17-inch clean-silver alloy wheels
• ESC, VSM, HAC
• Rear disc brakes
• Chrome outside door handles
• Puddle lamps
• LED DRLs
• Leather-wrapped steering wheel
• Ambient lighting
• Rear armrest with cup holder
• Adjustable rear-seat headrests
• 10.25-inch touchscreen infotainment system
• Panoramic sunroof
• LED map and reading lamps
• Wireless charger
• Electric folding wing mirrors
• One-touch-down driver-side window
• 60:40 split rear seats
• Reclining rear backrest

SX(O) (1.5 petrol IVT, 1.5 diesel 6MT and 6AT, 1.4 turbo-petrol 7DCT)

• 17-inch diamond-cut alloy wheels
• Six airbags
• 7.0-inch instrument cluster
• 8-speaker Bose premium sound system
• Remote engine start-stop
• Front ventilated seats
• Powered driver’s seat
• Electric parking brake with auto hold function

In addition to an extensive features list, prospective customers will get to choose from a palette of as many as 10 body paint shades, including Mulberry Red, Galaxy Blue, Typhoon Silver, Titan Grey, Deep Forest, Phantom Black, Polar White and Lava Orange, with the last two also getting the option of a contrast black roof.    

In terms of powertrains, Creta’s line-up will closely mirror that of the Kia Seltos’. As such, it will get a 115hp/144Nm, 1.5-litre petrol engine mated to a 6-speed manual gearbox or a CVT (or IVT, as Hyundai puts it) automatic transmission; a 115hp/250Nm, 1.5-litre diesel motor paired to either a 6-speed manual or a 6-speed torque converter auto gearbox; and a 140hp/242Nm, 1.4-litre turbo-petrol mill with a sole 7-speed DCT automatic transmission. Curiously, Hyundai has decided to omit a manual offering for the turbo-petrol, something that is available on the Seltos.

As we have previously reported, the petrol and diesel-manual variants will post official mileage figures of 16.8kpl and 21.4kpl, respectively, while the turbo-petrol will have a fuel economy of 16.8kpl. To know how these figures match up to those of the Seltos, click here.

With a head-turning design, contemporary interiors, extensive features and a wide range of powertrains, the new Creta will duke it out with the Kia Seltos, MG Hector, Tata Harrier, Renault Captur, Renault Duster and the Nissan Kicks in a hotly contested space. Expect prices for the upcoming Hyundai to be in the Rs 10-16 lakh range (estimated, ex-showroom).

Also see:

India-spec Hyundai Creta interior sketches revealed 

Second-gen Hyundai Creta debuts with radical look

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Redmi Note 8 Pro Android 10 update escapes China

The Redmi Note 8 Pro has been running the latest MIUI 11 for a while now, and yet everywhere across the world except China it's still been based on the rather ancient Android 9 Pie. An update to Android 10 has been in the works for months for global Redmi Note 8 Pro models, but for some reason it took this long to actually start rolling out. Don't get the champagne out yet, though. For now, a new update for the Redmi Note 8 Pro bringing Android 10 to the immensely popular mid-range device, is only going out in Pakistan, seemingly. It's unclear how long it will take for us to see it in...

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Elizabeth Warren Takes Jibe at Zuckerberg, Bezos on Colbert Show

Elizabeth Warren takes jibe at Bill Gates, Mark Zuckerberg, and Jeff Bezos on the episode of Late Show with Stephen Colbert.

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Nissan Kicks facelift to be unveiled in March

Nissan will reveal the mid-cycle update for its international-spec Kicks crossover next month. The Nissan Kicks for international markets (model code P15) has been on sale since 2016. With this update, Nissan will introduce the Kicks in more markets like Thailand, and even Japan, where the model was not on sale before.

The 2020 Kicks will be introduced in the Thailand market first. The spy shots seen give us a fair idea of the model’s front fascia.  It will get slightly more angular looks, similar to the newer Nissan crossovers and the Aria crossover concept shown recently; the headlamps are less rounded and the V-Motion grille seems to be a tad larger and merges more prominently with the bumper. Mild tweaks to the rear bumper and tail-lamps are expected too. 

According to sources, Nissan has given the Kicks interior a refresh too, in addition to using better quality materials and an updated infotainment system.  It will also feature LED lighting and new alloy wheel designs.

Under the hood, the Kicks facelift is expected to come with Nissan’s e-Power tech, similar to the one seen on the Nissan Note premium hatchback sold overseas. Powering the crossover will be a 1.2-litre HR12DE three-cylinder petrol engine coupled with a 1.5kWh battery pack making a combined 129hp.  In this system, the engine is used as a power generator for the batteries and the wheels are driven by an electric motor.  This setup is understood to help Nissan achieve crucial fuel efficiency and CO2 figures that are required in some international markets including Thailand.

The international-spec Nissan Kicks is based on the V-platform that underpins many other models from the carmaker, and is different to the India-spec Kicks which shares its M0 platform with Renault models like the Captur and Duster. There is no news on a facelift for the Kicks in the Indian market but the model is all set to switch to a new BS6-compliant 1.3-litre turbo-petrol engine soon. 

Source

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PhotoGallery: Citroen Ami image gallery

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Hyundai Shuts Down Factory In Korea After Worker Tests Positive For Coronavirus

Shares of the automaker dropped more than 5% after the news, while the wider market was down 2.6%. The closing deals a fresh setback to Hyundai Motor, which has gradually resumed production at local...

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PhotoGallery: TVS iQube image gallery

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Vivo V19 Official Renders Revealed, Colours and Camera Details Teased

The Vivo V19 is teased to sport a 48-megapixel main rear camera, and a 32-megapixel front camera. The phone is teased to offer features like Super Night Selfie mode.

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Vivo Apex 2020 Curved Display, Gimbal Camera, 60W Fast Charging Teased

The first teaser shared on Weibo shows off Vivo Apex 2020's curved edges, with slightly tapered corners for better protection. The company has already teased that the edges are curved at an angle of...

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Apple May Add Trackpad to Its Smart Keyboard Accessory for iPad Pro

Apple is set to launch a new version of its Smart Keyboard for the iPad Pro that will feature a built-in trackpad, according to a media report. The new accessory is said to be unveiled later this...

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Environment Ministry issues draft notification for battery waste management

The Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change (MoEFCC) has issued a draft notification for 'Battery Waste Management Rules, 2020', which is set to supersede Batteries (Management and Handling) Rules, 2001.

The amendment looks to ensure safe and formalised recycling of batteries that are in use, with a focus on tracking batteries that have completed their useful life through online records and data management. The proposed rules will seek accountability to make sure that the batteries are recycled through formal channel.

The new rules, when enforced, will be applicable to "every manufacturer, producer, collection centre, importer, re-conditioner, re-furbisher, dismantler, assembler, dealer, recycler, auctioneer, vehicle service centre, consumer and bulk consumers involved in manufacture, processing, sale, purchase, collection, storage, re-processing and use of batteries or components there of including their components, consumables and spare parts which make the product operational."

The Ministry has asked manufacturers to set up collection centres by themselves or jointly at various places for collecting used batteries from consumers and dealers. They will also have to make arrangements for safe transportation of old batteries from the collection centre to the authorised/registered recyclers. Furthermore, manufacturers will also need to file an annual record of their sales and buyback to the State Board by December 31 of every year.

The battery chemistry of the batteries used in the automotive industry that are proposed under the purview but not limited to include lead-acid battery (Deep cycle battery, VRLA battery, AGM battery, Gel battery), Lithium-ion battery (Lithium-ion lithium cobalt oxide battery (ICR), Lithium-ion manganese oxide battery (IMR), Lithium-ion polymer battery, Lithium iron phosphate battery, Magnesium-ion battery, Nickel-cadmium battery (Nickel-cadmium battery vented cell type), Nickel-hydrogen battery, Rechargeable alkaline battery, Rechargeable fuel battery, Sodium-sulphur battery, Sugar battery, Super iron battery, Ultra Battery.

If the proposed amendments come into force, India may take a lead in establishing a regulatory framework on putting in place a mechanism for safe disposal and recycling of batteries in the world.

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Tesla Shares Slump As Coronavirus Hits China Car Registrations

China Association of Automobile Manufacturers had earlier said that overall vehicle sales fell by almost a fifth in January, hurt by Lunar New Year holidays that started earlier than last year and by...

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Samsung Vows to Fix Galaxy S20 Ultra Camera After Initial Reviews

Responding to issues that several reviewers have discovered on the camera system of the newly launched Galaxy S20 Ultra smartphone, Samsung is readying an update to improve the camera.

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Tata Motors, Two Group Finance Firms Accused Of Antitrust Violations In India - Sources

The Competition Commission of India (CCI) is reviewing a complaint which alleges the country's biggest seller of trucks dictated terms around the quantity and type of vehicles its former dealer in...

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Here's A KTM That Produces 600 Horsepower

With a basic weight of around 1,000 kg, and peak power of over 600 horses produced by the Audi's 2.5-liter, five-cylinder engine, the KTM X-BOW GTX, as a GT2 racer represents a power-to-weight ratio...

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Steven Seagal Settles With US SEC Over Cryptocurrency Promotion

Steven Seagal, the star of action movies including Above the Law and Out for Justice, has agreed to pay $314,000 to resolve charges of "unlawfully touting" a cryptocurrency offering, the US securities...

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Facebook Sues Analytics Firm for Data Misuse

Facebook on Thursday filed a federal lawsuit against oneAudience data intelligence firm over a tactic it used to gather information about users of social media platforms.

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Realme 6 Pro Spotted on Geekbench With 8GB RAM Ahead of Launch

The upcoming Realme 6 Pro smartphone seems to have surfaced on Geekbench, tipping key specifications ahead of launch next week. Realme 6 series launch is set for March 5, and the Chinese smartphone...

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Apple Powerbeats 4 design revealed by FCC listing

Apple's is preparing to release a new pair of wireless headphones called the Powerbeats 4. Late last month, we saw a glimpse of the earphone's design thanks to a set of icons found in iOS update 13.3.1. Powerbeats Pro (left) • Powerbeats 4 (middle) • Powerbeats 3 (right) Thanks to a new filing with the FCC, we are able to see more about the Powerbeats 4's design. It carriers a model number of A2015 and first began testing in November. A description in the filing reads the following: A2015 is wireless headphone with integrated battery, microphone, and antenna. It...

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Popular Epidemic Simulation Game Gets Yanked From App Store in China

Strategy simulation game "Plague Inc.", which surged in popularity in China when the coronavirus epidemic first started, has been removed from the China app store after regulators said it contained...

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Facebook Cancels F8 Developer Conference Due to Coronavirus

Facebook said on Thursday it would cancel its annual developer conference due to fears over the coronavirus, as growing concerns about the economic impact of the global outbreak drove Wall Street to...

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PhotoGallery: Brabus 800 Adventure XLP image gallery

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Realme 6 Pro stops by Geekbench

Realme has already confirmed that it's launching the Realme 6 and 6 Pro in India next week, on March 5. The phones will be joined by the company's first fitness band. The Realme 6 Pro has so far been rumored to sport the Snapdragon 720G chipset, and today it's been spotted in the Geekbench results database. The model number RMX2061 has been associated with the Realme 6 Pro through a previous IMDA certification. The SoC isn't specified in the benchmark listing, but we do get to find out that at least one version of the handset will come with 8GB of RAM. It will also run Android 10...

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2020 Mercedes-AMG GLA 45 revealed

The new Mercedes GLA compact SUV has been given the 45 treatment, courtesy of AMG, packing up to 421hp in its most potent form.

It’s the latest model to receive Affalterbach’s M139 2.0-litre turbocharged engine, the most powerful four-cylinder in series production, and joins the A45 and CLA 45 in AMG’s compact performance line-up.

Like its stablemates, the GLA 45 produces 387hp in standard form, while the top-rung S model brings an additional 34hp (421hp) – making it the most powerful compact crossover available. Mercedes claims the standard car will sprint from 0-100kph in 4.4sec, with the S shaving 0.1sec off that time. The S also goes without the standard car’s speed limiter, taking top speed up from 250kph to 270kph.

Both can be told apart from the standard GLA by performance-oriented bodywork additions, including power domes in the bonnet, flared wheel arches and prominent air intakes.

The GLA 45 is equipped with a variable four-wheel-drive system that uses torque vectoring technology to send different amounts of power to each rear wheel, according to the driving situation. Both wheels are equipped with their own electronically controlled multi-disc clutch, allowing each to be disengaged from its drive shaft individually.

An 8-speed dual-clutch automatic gearbox features, and has been configured to offer spontaneous acceleration at all speeds.

The crossover also gains a bespoke AMG suspension setup that’s said to offer enhanced rolling refinement over the previous model, while allowing “easy vehicle control at the limits”. Further improvements include reduced torque steer under acceleration and more responsive steering. 

A range of driving modes allow the car to be setup for its intended use. The GLA 45’s ‘Race-Start’ function is said to provide “a highly emotional experience”, by maximising acceleration from stationary and pausing ignition between gears for a more noticeable shift. By contrast, Eco Mode places an emphasis on efficiency, with stop-start and coasting functionalities helping to save fuel.

The interior receives the usual AMG treatment, including sports bucket seats, a bespoke steering wheel with drive mode selection and customisable shortcut buttons, and a special sports view for the digital instrument cluster.

Closer to home, Mercedes-Benz showcased the second-gen GLA SUV at the recently held Auto Expo 2020, and the German Luxury car marque is slated to launch the model in India in the third quarter of 2020.

Also see:

Mercedes-Benz GLC Coupe facelift India launch on March 3

All-new Mercedes-AMG GLE 63 Coupe revealed

2020 Mercedes-Benz GLA revealed

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Hero Xtreme 160R vs rivals: Specifications comparison

Last week, Hero MotoCorp took the wraps off a new addition to the Xtreme range – the Hero Xtreme 160R. The new motorcycle is based on the Xtreme 1R concept showcased at EICMA 2019, and while Hero hasn’t revealed prices for the bike, it has released all of its specifications. The numbers are along the lines of other sport-nakeds in our market, like the TVS Apache RTR 160 4V, Suzuki Gixxer and the Bajaj Pulsar NS160. Bajaj is yet to reveal details on the NS160 and so we’ve left it out of this comparison, for now. The other two, though, have been updated to comply with BS6 norms and here’s how they stack up on paper against Hero’s latest offering.

Design

The Xtreme 160R is based on the bold and aggressive-looking Xtreme 1R concept from EICMA 2019, and is easily one of the sharpest-looking motorcycles in Hero’s current line-up. Unlike the Xtreme 200R that features a more conventional design, this motorcycle appears to be a lot more sporty, and design elements like the stubby exhaust accentuate this. It’s also the freshest design in this company, but all three bikes have recently received big visual updates.

The Apache RTR 160 4V has always had a well-proportioned design. In the transition to its BS6 avatar, the RTR 160 dons a new face that makes the bike look a lot more aggressive. There's also some attention to detail in the new chequered flag graphics on the top of the fuel tank and in the knee recesses, as well as in the dual-tone-finish seat. 

Meanwhile, the standout design element on the Gixxer is its flat LED headlamp. The rest of the bike remains largely unchanged from its previous iteration, except for elements like the new tank shrouds that were added to freshen things up. The rear end is shared with the SF, and it has a more sportier, sharp rake to it and a simple, albeit elegant, V-shaped LED tail-light. Overall, it is a clean-looking bike and has a sporty stance that fits right into this segment. 

Features

All three bikes are equipped with digital display units. Of these, the Xtreme 160R uses a negative-display unit, while the console on the Gixxer and the Apache are conventional black text on a white background. The instruments clusters on all three bikes use a very similar horizontal layout and display the same levels of information, with a tachometer across the top. The Xtreme’s looks the most premium, thanks to the negatively lit display, while the Gixxer’s is the most basic looking of the lot.

The Xtreme also comes equipped with a side-stand engine cut off and hazard lights, but the Apache really stands out here with what it has to offer – the manufacturer’s Glide Through Technology (GTT), which allows for much easier slow-speed riding, moving the bike forward by just releasing the clutch and without throttle operation. The maximum speed with GTT is restricted to 7kph in first gear, 12kph in second gear and 17kph in third gear. All three bikes also feature LED headlights.

Powertrain

The Xtreme 160R is powered by a new, BS6-compliant 163cc, single-cylinder, air-cooled engine that produces 15.2hp and 14Nm. That’s a whole 1.6hp and 0.2Nm more than the Gixxer, which lost 0.5hp and 0.2Nm when it achieved BS6 compliance. However, the Hero still produces less than the Apache’s 16.02hp and 14.12Nm. The Apache is also the only motorcycle here that uses an oil-cooled engine, in comparison to the air-cooled units on the other two. The Xtreme 160R may still have the upper hand though, as it is the lightest motorcycle here with a kerb weight of 138kg. As a result, it has the highest power-to-weight ratio, at 110.14 hp/tonne, despite the power deficit. The power-to-weight ratio of the Apache, in comparison, is 107.51 hp/tonne while that of the Suzuki Gixxer is 97.14 hp/tonne.

The Apache also boasts of four valves in its single-cylinder engine, while the other two use two-valve technology. All three bikes use a 5-speed gearbox.

Powertrain
	Hero Xtreme 160R	TVS Apache RTR 160 4V	Suzuki Gixxer
Engine	163cc, single-cylinder, air cooled	159.7cc, single-cylinder, oil-cooled	155cc, single-cylinder, air-cooled
Power	15.2hp at 8000rpm	16.02hp at 8250rpm	13.6hp at 8000rpm
Torque	14Nm at 6500rpm	14.12Nm at 7250rpm	13.8Nm at 6000rpm
Power-to-weight ratio	110.14hp/tonne	107.51hp/tonne	97.14hp/tonne

Underpinnings

This is where all three bikes are quite similar – all three feature a telescopic fork and a monoshock. The Xtreme 160R and Apache RTR 160 4V sport a disc brake at the front, with the option of a drum or a disc at the rear, while the Gixxer is available only in one variant that has a disc brake at either end. All three bikes feature single-channel ABS.

Like we mentioned earlier, the Xtreme is the lightest bike here at 138kg, but the Gixxer isn’t too heavy either, with a weight of 140kg. The Apache, meanwhile, weighs considerably more, at 149kg. 

All three bikes ride on different tyre sizes and you can take a look at them in the table below. The Gixxer has the widest rear tyre, while the front tyre on the Apache is the slimmest. Interestingly, if you opt for the RTR 160 4V with a rear drum brake, you’ll get a slimmer 110/80-17 section tyre, whereas rear disc models come equipped with a 130/70-17 rear tyre. 

Underpinnings
	Hero Xtreme 160R	TVS Apache RTR 160 4V	Suzuki Gixxer
Weight (kerb)	138kg	147 kg (drum) / 149 kg (disc)	140kg
Seat height	790mm	800mm	795mm
Wheelbase	1334mm	1357mm	1335mm
Brakes (f)	276mm disc	270mm disc	Disc
Brakes (r)	220mm disc / 130mm drum	200mm disc / 130 mm drum	Disc
Suspension (f)	Telescopic fork	Telescopic fork	Telescopic fork
Suspension (r)	Monoshock	Monoshock	Monoshock
Tyres (f)	100/80 - 17	90/90-17	100/80 - 17
Tyres (r)	130/70 - R17	110/80 - 17 (Drum) / 130/70 - 17 (Disc)	140/60 - R 17
Fuel capacity	12 litres	12 litres	12 litres

Summing it up

Hero hasn’t revealed prices of the Xtreme 160R yet, but considering the Indian manufacturer’s in the past, we expect its price to be similar, if not less than the TVS Apache RTR 160 4V that costs between Rs 99,950-1.03 lakh. Prices for the updated Gixxer are yet to be announced as well, but we don't expect to see a big hike over the current Rs 1 lakh (ex-showroom) price because the model is already fuel injected.

On paper, all three motorcycles seem pretty neck and neck, but the Xtreme 160R does seem to have what it takes to match or even better the performance, practicality and comfort of its two most direct rivals. 

from Autocar India - Bikes https://ift.tt/2T3k3QO

Reddit CEO Steve Huffman Calls TikTok 'Fundamentally Parasitic'

Reddit CEO Steve Huffman calls TikTok fundamentally parasitic app. He further revealed that he "actively" recommends people to not install TikTok on their phones.

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Honda BS6 two-wheelers sales cross 3 lakh units

Honda Motorcycle & Scooter India (HMSI) has confirmed that it has sold over 3 lakh BS6 two-wheelers. The company’s BS6-compliant two-wheeler line-up comprises five models – the Activa 125, SP 125, Activa 6G, Dio and Shine.

The manufacturer also revealed that all four of its factories – Manesar (Haryana), Tapukara (Rajasthan), Kolar (Karnataka) and Vithalapur (Gujarat) – have moved to BS6 production, with a combined capacity of 6.4 million units in FY2019.

According to Yadvinder Singh Guleria, senior vice-president, Sales and Marketing, HMSI, said, “Honda was the first two-wheeler manufacturer to lead the BS6 transition almost six months ahead of the deadline. Over 3,00,000 customers are now experiencing Honda’s advanced technologies like eSP, many first-in-segment features like ACG starter motor and significant mileage-up. The coming weeks will see Honda’s BS6 line-up get more robust with new introductions across segments.”

Also see:

Honda Activa 6G review, test ride

Honda SP 125 BS6 review, test ride

Honda Activa 125 BS6 review, test ride

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New Force Gurkha: A close look

The venerable Force Gurkha off-roader is all set for a major revamp. Shown at Auto Expo 2020 for the first time, the Gurkha gets a new look, a completely redone cabin, updated underpinnings and more creature comforts. While the new Gurkha retains the classic Mercedes G-Wagen silhouette of its predecessor, there’s much that’s changed too. There’s a significantly longer overhang up front, which, along with the shift to plastic bumpers and a chunkier bonnet, was necessary to meet the latest pedestrian protection norms. The cliff-faced front end has also made way for a gentler look here, with the traditional round headlights now sitting recessed amid square surrounds. LED daytime running lights for the headlights are also in keeping with the times.

At the sides, the body panels are new and there’s premium beading at the doors as well, but the most noticeable change is the single rear window that comes in place of the earlier dual-pane arrangement. While this does give a cleaner look, the option to open the rear windows has been lost in the bargain. The Gurkha’s squared-out rear sees the incorporation of full-width glass, while new vertically oriented tail-lights on the body (rather than on the bumper) and a new rear bumper complete the makeover.

The ambience inside is vastly improved by the new dual-tone dashboard, as well as the inclusion of modern-day essentials like a touchscreen infotainment system and front power windows. Central locking, tilt and telescopic adjustable steering, dual airbags and ABS are other important additions. The three-door Gurkha also sees an important change in seating configuration. Its side facing bench seats has made way for a pair of front-facing individual chairs with backrest recline. Access to the second row is now intended to be via the tailgate rather than the front doors. There’s also a pair of side-facing jump seats at the back; but their size and position suggest they’d be best left folded away.

 

Dash is all new. Features like power windows and touchscreen a first for the Gurkha.

Under the skin, the new Force Gurkha retains the ladder-frame chassis, with modifications for improved crash protection. As before, the Gurkha’s suspension comprises an independent front double-wishbone and five-link, rigid-axle rear arrangement, with coil springs at all four corners. Four-wheel drive with low range, and front and rear axle differential locks, have been retained too. In all, the Gurkha comes with loads of ability built in and also offers enthusiasts a good base to build on for hardcore suspension and hardware upgrades.

The new Gurkha marks the debut of a heavily updated and BS6 version of Force’s Mercedes OM616-derived 2.6-litre diesel engine. It will come in multiple states of tune and power a whole host of Force Motors’ utility vehicles and mini-buses. In its 90hp/260Nm form, as on the Gurkha, the engine’s emission regulation system comprises a Lean NoX trap and diesel particulate filter. A 5-speed manual gearbox will be standard fit. Sadly, the outgoing Gurkha Extreme’s 140hp, 2.2-litre diesel engine has been dropped from the range.

The new Gurkha will go on sale around April 2020 in three-door form, but the five-door and two-wheel drive versions will join the line-up soon. The Gurkha will go up against the new Mahindra Thar that is also said to put greater emphasis on comfort than before. Which one does a better job of the same script remains to be seen. In either case, off-road enthusiasts have much to get excited about.

Customisation Possibilities

 

While the new Gurkha was Force’s big reveal at Auto Expo 2020, it was this giant, military green custom Gurkha that was the centre of attention for most showgoers. Built as a concept to exhibit the possibilities of customisation presented by the new Gurkha platform, the model is akin to the Mercedes-Benz G500 4x42. The Gurkha’s basic frame, body, and engine have been retained but virtually everything else is beefed up. The Gurkha custom rides on 40-inch tyres, uses portal axles from the Mercedes Unimog (which has additional reduction in the hubs), and gets a pair of Bilstein coilovers at the front wheels and a pair of Profender coilovers at the rear (each with a dedicated 15-inch oil reservoir). In all, there’s 400mm of ground clearance, 10 inches of suspension travel at the front, and 12 inches at the rear. The go-anywhere Force Gurkha also features a snorkel, a dual-motor winch from Gigglepin, and a roof-mounted spare tyre. In short, it’s built for the apocalypse.

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5G iPhone Models to Boost Apple Growth in FY 2021: Morgan Stanley Report

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Review: Toyota Prius PHEV review, test drive

Hybrids are still something of a rarity in India, but the concept of having a combustion engine work in conjunction with an electric motor isn’t new. Toyota brought out the world’s first mass-produced, petrol-electric hybrid – the Prius – all the way back in 1997, and today it’s not uncommon for even supercars to flaunt their green credentials with some form of hybridisation. The types of powertrains that come under the broad umbrella of hybrids include mild-hybrids, strong-hybrids and plug-in hybrids. To get a better understanding of the plug-in hybrid system, Toyota had us over at their test track in Bidadi, Karnataka to try out the Prius PHEV.

Globally, Toyota introduced a plug-in hybrid powertrain to the Prius line-up in 2012. This version goes one-up on the standard Prius with its larger battery pack and the option to charge it via an external power source. What that means is you can cover larger distances without any tailpipe emissions.

This second-generation Prius PHEV shares its petrol-electric powertrain with the Prius hybrid – it’s powered by a 96hp, 1.8-litre petrol engine along with a 71hp electric motor, delivering a combined output of 120hp. The 8.8kWh battery can provide a claimed pure electric range of 50km. The battery pack can be charged from 0-100 percent in 14 hours via a 100V/6A AC socket, and in 2 hours 20min through a 200V/16A AC connection. Meanwhile, DC fast charging will top up the battery to 80 percent in about 20min.

The Prius PHEV’s hybrid system is well calibrated and it provides peppy and seamless performance. While it doesn’t offer much in terms of driving feel, it is effortless to drive, especially in pure EV mode, and that should make it ideal for the city run. Aside from a pure EV mode, the PHEV gets three drive modes to choose from – Normal, Eco and Power. In Normal mode, the Prius will run on electric power at low speeds with the engine coming in at only about 70kph, while in Eco mode it will cycle between electric and petrol power in the most efficient way possible. Meanwhile, in the Power mode, the combustion engine is on most of the time. This does up the performance of the Prius PHEV but not by a significant margin.

The catch here is its pricing. Due to their more advanced tech and larger battery packs, PHEVs can be pricey. The Prius PHEV costs 20 percent more than the standard Prius.

How Plug-in Hybrids work

A plug-in hybrid essentially consists of a powertrain similar to that of a strong hybrid. An electric motor provides motive force at low city speeds, with the combustion engine kicking in at higher loads. 

The battery pack is juiced up on the go via the engine and regen braking.  But as the name makes it amply clear, a plug-in hybrid also extends the option of charging the battery pack by plugging it in, akin to a pure electric vehicle. Pushing battery sizes to nearly 10kWh, PHEVs possess the highest energy storage capacities of any form of hybrid. As such, they offer a pure electric driving range of 30-60km which effectively allows them to operate as efficiently as BEVs within city confines.

SHIRISH GANDHI

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