Honda Elevate vs Kia Seltos vs Hyundai Creta vs VW Taigun vs others

BHPian RahulNagaraj recently shared this with other enthusiasts. Honda ElevateWhat you'll like:Smart styling with the right amount of muscle and clean linesReliable and proven 1.5L i-VTEC engine is rev-happy & delivers adequate performancePick between a slick 6-speed MT for some engagement or a super-smooth CVT Automatic for effortless urban commutingSuperbly tuned suspension! Comfortable ride quality with sorted handlingClean interior design with good cabin space. Has a big 458L boot tooHonda's proven reliability and after-sales service should ensure a fuss-free ownership experienceSafety features include ADAS Level 2 tech, 6 airbags, hill start assist, lane watch assist, ISOFIX and ESPWhat you won't:1.5L NA offers satisfactory performance, but the competition offers way more powerful turbo-petrol and faster dual-clutch automaticsCVT is great for urban commuting but out on the open roads, it's more suited to a sedate driving styleNo diesel or hybrid powertrains on offer. The competition offers both for those with high running. We can't figure out why the City's wonderful Hybrid system wasn't adapted for the ElevateLots of missing features by current standards. You don't get auto wipers, ICE with a subwoofer, a 360-degree camera, a powered driver seat, ambient lighting and moreLacks the feeling of contemporariness or the wow factor, be it in styling, powertrain, features & technologyThe Honda Sensing ADAS system is intrusive at times on the highway; requires the driver to adapt to it and be comfortable using itReview LinkKia Seltos FaceliftWhat you'll like:A superbly engineered all-rounder that delivers a premium experienceHandsome, contemporary styling. Looks very sharpWe find the Seltos to be well-priced for what it offersNice, user-friendly interiors with sufficient space & good qualityLoved the 1.5L turbo-petrol & 1.5L dieselBoth the automatics - Diesel AT & Petrol DCT - are simply fantastic!Mature on-road behaviour, including at highway speeds. A+ brakes as wellUnusually wide variant offering. Seems there is something for everyoneStandard safety kit includes 6 airbags, ESP, all-wheel disc brakes, hill start assist, TPMS, rear parking sensors, 3-point seatbelts for all, etc.Impressive kit (ADAS Level-2, panoramic sunroof, dual-zone climate control, 360-degree camera, HUD, front parking sensors, Bose sound system, wireless charger with cooling function, cooled seats, UV cut glass, & loads more)What you won't:Turbo-petrol are very sensitive to driving style. FE will drop drastically when you drive hardBack seat's width makes it better for 2 adults and a kid, rather than 3 adultsFirm suspension. Liveable, but bad roads will bother youDual-clutch ATs (like the Petrol DCT) have a history of poor reliability in IndiaDiesel's 113 BHP & 250 Nm - although adequate - is the lowest in the segmentExtremely confusing & complicated variant spread!You get bigger SUVs and crossovers for the same money (e.g. Hector, Harrier, XUV700)Review LinkHyundai CretaWhat you'll like:A superbly engineered all-rounder that delivers a premium experienceWe find the Hyundai Creta to be well-priced for what it offersUser-friendly interiors with sufficient space & good-quality partsLoved the 1.5L diesel. Will soon get the fast 1.5L turbo petrol tooSmooth & competent automatic gearboxes availableSorted road manners & handling for a Hyundai, including on the highway. You will be surprised!The Creta's safety package includes 6 airbags, ESP, all-wheel disc brakes, TPMS etc.Impressive kit (panoramic sunroof, paddle shifters, Bose sound system, cooled seats, cabin air purifier & loads more)Hyundai's competent after-sales service, fuss-free ownership & up to 5-years standard warrantyWhat you won't:Scored just 3 stars in the GNCAP crash testsOddball love-it-or hate-it styling. We find the Creta's exterior design to be too weird & futuristicFirmer suspension isn't as cushy as the 1st-gen CretaBack seat's width makes it better for 2 adults and a kid, rather than 3 adultsSome misses (no auto wipers, 360-degree camera, illuminated window buttons, full-size spare tyre on top trims)Diesel's 113 BHP & 250 Nm - although adequate - is the lowest in the segmentYou get bigger SUVs and crossovers for the same money (e.g. Hector, Harrier)Review LinkVolkswagen TaigunWhat you'll like:Has its own fresh, European character and complements its cousin (the Skoda Kushaq) nicely in a segment dominated by Indian, Korean and Chinese SUVsUnmistakably VW styling matched with solid European build qualityCabin has good legroom to offer, supportive seats, perfect ergonomics & lots of storage148 BHP engine makes the Taigun one of the most fun-to-drive crossovers in the segment!Sporty 1.0L & 1.5L turbo-petrols are mated to slick 6-speed MTs & smooth ATsSorted suspension offers a balanced ride & handling packageSafety features include up to 6 airbags, ESC (all variants), 3-point seatbelts for all, electronic differential lock, brake disc wiping, multi-collision brake and moreFeatures like active cylinder tech, ventilated seats, sunroof, 10-inch touchscreen with wireless Android Auto and CarPlay, auto headlamps & wipers etc.Advantages over the Kushaq = design that stands out more, cabin 'feels' better, fabric seats are executed in a nicer manner...5-star GNCAP safety ratingWhat you won't:No 1.5L diesel is a major disadvantage in a world where petrol costs over 100 bucks/litreNarrow cabin width makes a 5th adult completely unwelcome. Best for 4 onboardInterior colour scheme and quality don't feel up to traditional VW standards. Some polarising details too (chrome outside, painted plastics inside...)Sure lacks the street cred/presence offered by some competitorsVW's after-sales service can be a hit or miss. Many VW owners find it expensive tooMissing some now-expected features such as a subwoofer, driving modes (sport), panoramic sunroof, 360-degree camera, electric driver's seat adjustment & rear window blindsTurbo-petrol are very sensitive to driving style. FE will drop drastically when you drive hardKushaq's 'clever' touches are missing = no spot on top of the dashboard to place a deity, no smartphone holders on the front seatbacks, no ticket clip on the windshield, no elastic band in the door pad to keep items in place, or even something as simple as the small reflective tapes on the door padsReview LinkSkoda KushaqWhat you'll like:A breath of fresh (European) air in a sea of Korean, Chinese & Indian SUVsClassy exterior & interior styling matched with solid European build qualityCabin has good legroom to offer, supportive seats, perfect ergonomics & lots of storage148 BHP engine makes the Kushaq one of the most fun-to-drive crossovers in the segmentSporty 1.0L & 1.5L turbo-petrols are mated to slick 6-speed MTs & smooth ATsSorted suspension offers a balanced ride & handling packageSafety features include 6 airbags, ESC, 3-point seatbelts for all, electronic differential lock, brake disc wiping, multi-collision brake and more6-year extended warranty & 4-year all-inclusive service packages availableFeatures like active cylinder tech, ventilated seats, sunroof, wireless Android Auto and CarPlay, auto headlamps & wipers etc.5-star GNCAP safety ratingWhat you won't:No 1.5L diesel is a major disadvantage in a world where petrol costs over 100 bucks/litreDQ200 DSG transmission has a history of poor reliability & breakdowns in IndiaNarrow width makes a 5th adult completely unwelcome. Best for 4 onboardAt 385 litres, boot space is lesser than its direct rivals (Creta & Seltos = 433L)Sure lacks the street cred/presence offered by some competitorsSkoda's notorious dealerships & after-sales horror storiesMissing some now expected features such as driving modes (sport), panoramic sunroof, 360-degree camera, electric driver's seat adjustment & regular USB portsTurbo-petrol are very sensitive to driving style. FE will drop drastically when you drive hardReview LinkMaruti Suzuki Grand VitaraWhat you'll like:A competent hybrid car for the mass market20+ km/l FE in city driving conditions makes the Grand Vitara cheaper to run than a diesel!Lower emissions will appeal to environmentally-conscious buyers. And those who aren't ready for an EV yetToyota's reliability & expertise in hybrid systems is very reassuring in the MarutiSeamless Hybrid system that makes driving a breeze. A car you will enjoy driving in trafficMaruti's AWD system provides impressive soft-roading capabilities. Can get you out of tricky situations when touringCompliant ride quality coupled with balanced driving dynamicsWell-equipped with features such as driving modes, panoramic sunroof, 360-degree camera, ventilated seats, wireless smartphone charging, connected car features, wireless Android Auto + Apple CarPlay and moreMaruti's excellent after-sales service, wide dealer network & fuss-free ownership experiencesDoes most things well, but doesn't excel in any particular area (other than fuel economy)What you won't:Practicality is compromised due to reduced boot space in the full-hybrid variantInterior quality and fit & finish are underwhelming at this price pointAllGrip AWD is only available in a single MT trim. Missed opportunity to market a USPInterior is narrow and doesn't feel as roomy as some competitors. Rear seat is best for 2 adultsLacks the outright performance of the competition. Runs out of steam above 110 km/hNot as engaging to drive as the German competitors or the Creta / Seltos turbo-petrolNVH levels from the drivetrain are surprisingly poor for a hybrid. Sounds from the 3-cylinder engine, electric motor and brake vacuum pump filter into the cabinThe Honda City's Hybrid system is smoother, more sophisticated & more refinedMissing features such as rain-sensing wipers, premium audio + subwoofer, electric seats, electric parking brake, LED interior lighting, etc.Does most things well, but doesn't excel in any particular area (other than fuel economy)Review LinkToyota Urban Cruiser HyryderWhat you'll like:Very good attempt at making a mass-market hybrid car20+ km/l FE in city driving conditions makes the Hyryder cheaper to run than a diesel!Seamless hybrid system that makes driving a breeze. A car you will enjoy driving in the cityLower emissions will appeal to environmentally-conscious buyers. And those who aren't ready for an EV yetToyota's reliability & expertise in hybrid systems is very reassuringCompliant ride quality coupled with balanced driving dynamicsWell-equipped with features such as driving modes, panoramic sunroof, 360-degree camera, ventilated seats, wireless smartphone charging, connected car features, wireless Android Auto + Apple Carplay and moreOnly Crossover in this segment to provide AWD capabilityToyota's after-sales quality is usually regarded as top-notch by ownersDoes most things well, but doesn't excel in any particular area (other than fuel economy)What you won't:Practicality is compromised due to reduced boot space in the full-hybrid variantQuality of interior plastics feels more Maruti than Toyota. Frankly, the S-Cross cabin feels better in qualityInterior is narrow and doesn't feel as roomy as some competitors. Rear seat is best for 2 adultsMissing features such as rain-sensing wipers, premium audio + subwoofer, electric seats, electric parking brake, LED interior lighting, etc.Lacks the outright performance of the competition. Runs out of steam above 110 km/hNot as engaging to drive as the German competitors or the Creta / Seltos turbo-petrolNVH levels from the drivetrain are surprisingly poor for a hybrid. Sounds from the 3-cylinder engine, electric motor and brake vacuum pump filter into the cabinAWD available only on the MT (not the AT) and the mild-hybrid (not full-hybrid)The Honda City's Hybrid system is smoother, more sophisticated & more refinedDoes most things well, but doesn't excel in any particular area (other than fuel economy)Review LinkMG Astor Review LinkMG HectorWhat you'll like:Big size & lots of bling for the money! We find the Hector to be well-pricedA spacious cabin that can easily seat 5 adults. Massive 587-litre boot tooRefined 1.5L petrol is mated to a smooth CVTFiat-sourced 2.0L diesel is simply fantasticCompliant ride quality. The suspension is tuned for comfortLots of kits (panoramic sunroof, ADAS tech, 360-degree camera, electric seats & tailgate etc.)'Connected' Tablet ICE with an embedded SIM & lovely sound quality5-year / unlimited km warranty with roadside assistanceTop safety equipment includes 6 airbags, ESP, HSA, all-wheel disc brakes, TPMS & moreWhat you won't:Awkward styling on the side & rear profiles. Looks weird from some anglesSloppy high-speed handling, noticeable body roll & easy understeerThe turbo-petrol engine is adequate at best. Nothing for enthusiasts herePetrol CVT combination is a gas guzzler. Realistically, you can expect ~10 km/lNo Diesel AT (Creta, Seltos, Harrier, Compass and XUV700 offer this combination, which we love)Some annoyances like the ~6-meter turning radius, strange rpm meter (digital)Small after-sales network. Service quality & long-term reliability are big unknownsDon't get blinded by the British branding. This is a Chinese carReview LinkTata HarrierWhat you'll like:Stunning looks & strong road presence. Solid build tooWell-priced for the package on offerClassy, spacious cabin with comfortable seats & a chilling air-conFantastic 9-speaker audio system. Sound quality & bass are enjoyableThe 168BHP, 2.0L diesel offers good performanceSmooth & competent 6-speed automatic transmission205 mm of ground clearance + terrain response system. the latter will make monsoon driving saferTopnotch safety kit includes 6 airbags, ESP, break reminder, hill hold, brake disc wiping & moreFeatures such as the panoramic sunroof, Eco & Sport modes, auto headlamps & wipers, cruise controlWhat you won't:Concerns over niggles & long-term reliability. Few customers have reported problemsHeavy steering gets cumbersome at parking/u-turn / crawling speeds (

MotoGP event to help promote global automobile investments in UP, India: Adityanath

MotoGP event to help promote global automobile investments in UP, India: Adityanath Uttar Pradesh has a lot of potential for sports activities and that is why both the state government as well as the Centre are making all possible efforts to promote this sector, Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath said ahead of the MotoGP main event in Greater Noida on Sunday. He said this during his address at the Business Conclave ahead of the main race of MotoGP in which representatives of several major domestic and multinational companies participated, with UP government's MSME Minister Rakesh Sachan and Industrial, Exports Development Minister Nand Gopal Gupta in attendance. The chief minister said he has been informed that more than one lakh tickets have been sold for the high-pulsating motorcycle race's maiden show in India being held at the Buddh International Circuit (BIC). ''More than 275 national and international brands are associated with the MotoGP event which include BMW, Tissot, Michelin, RedBull, Shell, DHL, Oakley, Amazon, Petronas, etc. This race also provides an unparalleled opportunity for promotion of these brands and for dialogue with them,'' Adityanath said. ''The MotoGP race is a major attraction for global automobile industry. Organising this event in UP will help explore the potential in increasing investments in the state and in India. Our government will work with full commitment to explore these opportunities. On the other hand, for the development of sports and sportspersons we will get full support from the vision of Prime Minister Narendra Modi,'' the CM said. He said Uttar Pradesh currently has a population of 25 crore and a large part of it is in the working age group. He also stressed that UP is one of the fastest growing economies among the states in the country. ''The Buddh International Circuit was developed by the state government in 2011. It was known as the host venue for Formula One Grand Prix. With the MotoGP event, the immense potential of Uttar Pradesh has been presented to you through a short film (shown to participants earlier in the day),'' Adityanath said. He said the UP government is working with the Centre to develop sports facilities like stadiums and mini-stadiums in every district of the state. ''The development of sports facilities is being done at block level. There are 58,000 gram panchayats in the state and open gyms are being developed in it where women and youngsters feel encouraged to pursue sports,'' the CM said. ''Uttar Pradesh is a state of opportunities. There is good infrastructure in terms of connectivity via rail, road and waterways. There is a good opportunity in logistics. The region where this MotoGP event is being held falls in the sector where lies the junction of two key freight corridors the Eastern and the Western Freight Corridors,'' he said.

Luxury carmakers Mercedes, Lexus, Audi expect bumper sales in festive period

With a strong demand primarily driven by recent launches and buoyant customer sentiment, Mercedes-Benz expects the growth momentum to continue, Mercedes-Benz India Managing Director and CEO Santosh Iyer said. Lexus India President Naveen Soni said the luxury car market continues to grow in the country.

Anupam Kher lands in Kolkata for new autobiographical play

The actor has said that he and the audiences will partake in moments of laughter, joy, sorrow and life

Understanding biodiesel & synthetic fuels: Impact on current IC engines

BHPian revsperminute recently shared this with other enthusiasts. Hello, fellow BHPians! I'm currently pursuing a bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering. As a car enthusiast, it's no surprise that I've chosen a topic related to the automotive field for my final year CAPSTONE project. My friend (@santra) and I have decided to delve into the study of synthetic fuels and biofuels, specifically their impact on existing internal combustion engines. However, we've encountered challenges in connecting with reliable sources and organizations operating in this specialized field. I'm reaching out to tap into the collective wisdom of this community. If you're well-versed in the world of biodiesel or synthetic e-fuel, I kindly ask you to share your insights, experiences, and any trustworthy sources you might be aware of. Here are a few specific points that I'm keenly interested in:Biodiesel/EFuel Production Methods:What are the various methods employed to produce biodiesel from different feedstocks?Are there any groundbreaking or emerging production techniques associated with e-fuels that are currently gaining attention?Diverse Raw Materials:Which feedstocks are commonly utilized in the production of biodiesel?How are carbon capture techniques integrated into the production of e-fuels?Biodiesel/EFuel Manufacturers:Could you recommend companies that are actively engaged in manufacturing bio-diesel or e-fuels and might be open to collaborating with students like us?Trustworthy Resources:Can you point us towards reliable websites, research papers, or organizations that offer accurate and up-to-date information about biodiesel and e-fuels?Personal Experiences:Have you personally connected with any organizations or individuals who could potentially assist us in our project?By synergizing our knowledge and insights, we have the opportunity to construct a valuable repository of information for anyone intrigued by biodiesel and synthetic fuels as sustainable alternatives. Whether you're an expert in this domain or possess connections to experts, your contribution is of immeasurable value. Let's immerse ourselves in a dialogue that's both productive and enlightening. By doing so, we'll collectively empower ourselves to make well-informed decisions regarding our transportation preferences. Anticipating your valuable contributions and insights. Long live IC engines, revsperminute Here's what BHPian NomadSK had to say about the matter:Here's my 2 cents on Bio-fuelsThe continuous demand for innovation implies the existence of future unsolved technological needs. The automobile industry has constantly raced against time to solve these technological issues successfully. For instance, the oil industry has supplied sulfur-free fuels to satisfy environmental regulations, and this change also needs low-sulfur lubricants or gasoline with redesigned volatility. These technology solutions need to be also economically competitive to become widely accepted by the industry. Over the past decades, scientists around the world have foreseen serious threats for human life in the near future and have identified sustainable energy as a target for the 21st century. However, what exactly does sustainable energy mean? Sustainable energy must fully satisfy global energy demands, produced at the same rate at which it is consumed, and with an economic cost that guarantees availability in every country and social strata. Although this might be considered a utopia, the need is evident and has been one of the main legislation focuses in different world areas during the last decades.Idea behind the BlendingThe reduction should be obtained through an increase in the percentage of renewable fuel blended with conventional fuels for transportation. There are seven categories of advanced bio-fuels (other than corn derived Ethanol) that could be grouped into:Cellulosic bio-fuels, including Ethanol derived from cellulose, hemicellulose or ligninBiomass-based bio-dieselOther advanced bio-fuels: Ethanol from sugar, non-corn starch or waste material; bio-gas, butanol and other alcohols from renewable biomassHow Bio-Fuels are producedSynthetic liquid bio-fuels can be produced from a wide range of biomass feedstocks and different processes. The alternatives that received more interest during the last decades include:Ethanol is the main bio-fuel, produced through the fermentation of a wide variety of feedstocks, mainly corn and sugar cane, but also from other feedstocks like cereals and lignocellulosic materials. Bio-butanol may also be produced from similar processes.Bio-diesels are diesel fuels obtained by reacting vegetable oils with alcohol. The transesterification reaction produces Fatty Acid Methyl Ester (FAME) when methanol is the alcohol used or Fatty Acid Ethyl Ester (FAEE) when Ethanol is used, with properties very similar for both esters. Different vegetable oils used as feedstocks include rapeseed oil (canola), soybean oil, palm oil, and recently jatropha oil, but a wide variety of alternative oils are feasible: castor oil, sunflower oil, tallow, and even used cooking oils and animal fats.Pure vegetable oils (PVOs) could be used directly in diesel engines with significant changes in the design of some parts of the engine, but the automobile industry is strongly opposed to this possibility.Hydrogenated vegetable oil (HVO) is another alternative to produce fuel from vegetable oils or animal fats. HVO is produced through a hydrotreatment process followed by an isomerization step. HVO has similar properties to fossil diesel, with high cetane numbers and low aromatic contents.Synthetic diesel from biomass to liquid (BTL) is produced through a biomass gasification process to carbon monoxide (CO) and H2 (syngas), followed by oligomerization processes. The process is similar to those currently used to produce liquid fuels from natural gas and coal.Other compounds suitable for use as transport fuels can be produced from bio-syngas, such as methanol, dimethyl ether (DME), and synthetic naphtha. Biomass can also be transformed into bio crude (pyrolysis) and theoretically mixed into the crude basket in conventional refineries.With these practical considerations, the two most common types of bio-fuels used today are bio-ethanol and bio-diesel.Bio-fuel propertiesThe suitability of blending bio-fuels to be used as automotive fuel is currently an outdated topic. Bio-fuels have been blended in automotive fuels at low percentages for decades and have been demonstrated to be suitable components for automotive fuels without market problems. In the beginning, bio-fuels were very extensively tested. Analytical characterization and vehicle performance tests were performed in most of the countries involved in bio-fuel development.Bio-fuel handlingBio-fuels must be integrated into existing infrastructures and be compatible with existing vehicle fleets and refueling networks. Therefore, bio-fuels must be blended with hydrocarbons at refineries (or terminal plants) to maintain the primary property of conventional fuels: fungibility. Fungible fuels have common use, commingled distribution, specifications, and quality control that guarantee their substitution for each other without problems.Bio-fuel MixingThere are two alternative methods for blending bio-fuels: splash blending or banalization. Splash blending essentially involves adding bio-fuels to conventional fuel at the filling station. This practice is not recommended by the oil and automobile industries because the uncontrolled blending of bio-fuels and conventional fuels can lead to vehicle performance problems. Banalization involves mixing systems in tanks or lines before the loading rack facilities and can be carried out at the refinery or at the terminal. When possible, refinery blending is recommended, and either tank mixing or line blending may be preferred depending on the bio-fuel handled.Bio-fuel end useBio-fuels are generally considered to reduce pollutants at the exhaust pipe, but in truth, the reduction occurs before the catalyzer. After the catalyzer, pollutant emissions do not depend on bio-fuel content. The most important factor in vehicle performance is vehicle technology. Bio-fuels (or conventional fuels) are not required to improve performance, but they must not be detrimental. Other performance aspects, such as startability, driveability, or the emission of nonregulated pollutants, vary from bio-fuel to bio-fuel.Bio-ethanolBio-ethanol is by far the most widely used bio-fuel for transportation purposes. Although it has been used for decades in countries like Brazil, the beginning of this century saw the worldwide expansion of this bio-fuel as a substitute for gasoline, with a well-established industry because of the availability of a wide range of feedstocks and production processes with well-established technologies. Ethanol is currently produced primarily by the fermentation of sugars produced by plants (sugar cane, sugar beet, etc) or starches (corn, barley, sorghum). Ethyl alcohol from cellulosic feedstocks (such as wood) is expected to become increasingly important. Although research on the use of cellulosic feedstocks, including paper, wood, and other fibrous plant material, dates back to the early 20th century, only recently are large-scale demonstrating plants coming into production. Roughly 48 % of world Ethanol production is from sugar cane and sugar beet. Most of the remainder comes from grain, with corn playing a dominant role. Brazil is the largest sugar Ethanol producer in the world, and the United States and Canada are the largest starch Ethanol producers. Ethanol is widely used in Brazil and the United States, and the two countries were responsible for 88 % of the world's Ethanol fuel production till some years back.PropertiesThe addition of Ethanol to gasoline raises three main concerns:Effect of Ethanol on fuel volatility (vapor pressure and distillation)Effect of Ethanol on fuel octaneHygroscopic nature of EthanolIn addition, there are other non-negligible challenges to consider:Removal of solid contaminants, such as dirt or rustMaterial compatibilityMinor contaminants such as sulfates in the EthanolEthanol has a strong affinity for water due to its hygroscopic nature. As a result, Ethanol absorbs existing water in distribution, storage, and vehicle fuel systems, which can result in phase separation. When this occurs, the gasoline in the upper phase contains a reduced Ethanol concentration and may fail to meet specifications for octane or other key characteristics such as vapor pressure and distillation. Higher Ethanol content in gasoline creates a greater capacity to absorb water but does not increase the risk of phase separation because the amount of water needed to cause phase separation is very large and less probable at higher Ethanol contents. The solvent nature of Ethanol is well known. For this reason, Ethanol blends may remove sediment and sludge from tanks and filling lines due to the solvency of the blend. Special care should be taken in the distribution system, with filters to prevent the arrival of those sediments to the vehicle. With respect to the compatibility of Ethanol blends with materials from various components in fuel distribution systems and vehicles, there are differences from normal hydrocarbon fuels. Ethanol is different from other fuel hydrocarbons in aspects such as the presence of polar groups, a relatively smaller size, and higher conductivity. These properties may create problems with the integrity of some polymers used in different parts of the supply and distribution chain and Ethanol diffusion through polymers, increasing volatile organic compound emissions. Ethanol can also contribute to the corrosion and wear of various metal components.HandlingThe concerns related to the use of gasoline formulated with Ethanol usually increase with Ethanol concentration. The main potential complications related to handling Ethanol blends are related to water content, vapor pressure, and energy content. Ethanol distribution is rather difficult because of its affinity with water and its solvent properties, which allow it to dissolve substances insoluble in gasoline. This solvent capability allows the dissolution of material accumulated in pipelines, storage tanks, and other parts of the distribution system and thereby introduces impurities into the fuel. The affinity of Ethanol for water can also result in phase separation of blended alcohol/gasoline fuels. If phase separation occurs, the quality of the remaining gasoline phase will change and is not likely to meet specifications. The water-rich phase has no value and contains hydrocarbons, which makes it a waste to be treated with special handling according to local regulations. Phase separation is a function of water and Ethanol content, temperature, and gasoline properties. To minimize potential phase separation problems, the Ethanol-fuel blend should be made as far down the chain as possible, maintaining the quality control that guarantees that the fuel meets standards. Distribution of Ethanol-blended gasoline via multiproduct pipelines is usually not recommended, due to concerns about water content and the serious potential risk of jet fuel contamination. Loading racks at terminals appear as convenient places for blending facilities. Bio-ethanol is usually blended in distribution networks by mixing with special gasoline basestock (blendstock for oxygenate blending [BOB]) (matched blends) or with conventional gasoline (splash blends). A BOB is a base fuel formulated at the refinery with specifications already adjusted to account for the changes caused by Ethanol. To prevent the fuel from failing to fulfill volatility specifications, some countries tolerate extended limits for Ethanol blends (volatility waiver). At terminals, pure Ethanol can be stored in fixed-roof tanks with or without internal floating decks. Tanks with external floating decks are not recommended given the hygroscopic nature of the product. If no additional measures are taken, the vapor concentration above the liquid Ethanol will generally be flammable, so adequate safety measures must be implemented. Special attention should be taken when Ethanol-blended gasoline is introduced to filling stations for the first time to account for the risks of phase separation and sediments (rust particles, etc.) dissolving into the fuel. It is recommended to install filters (preferably those resistant to water) in the fuel dispensers.End UseEthyl alcohol (Ethanol) has long been used as an automotive fuel in two different ways: hydrous alcohol, which can completely replace gasoline in dedicated internal combustion engines, and anhydrous alcohol, as an effective octane booster when mixed with gasoline. Ethanol is an appropriate bio-fuel for Otto engines because of its high octane number and compatible volatility.Challenges Refineries/Distribution Logistics/End usersAs the heating value of Ethanol is lower than that of gasoline, both in mass and volumetric terms, the fuel consumption is higher-that is, the fuel economy is lower-when an engine consumes Ethanol (approximately 3.5 % less distance per litre in the case of E10).Although engines can theoretically be designed to use the high octane number of Ethanol to achieve better performance, this is not usually the case in practice, particularly due to the need to revert to gasoline when Ethanol is not available.Startability in cold conditions could also be worse because of the high heat of vaporization of Ethanol. On the other hand, the higher volatilities of Ethanolblends, slightly increase the evaporative emissions in older vehicles. However, modern vehicles with active coal canisters and new refueling facilities will practically eliminate this increase in emissions. Other exhaust emissions, particularly CO emissions, are improved in older vehicles.Water phase separation in case of problems through the distribution system could cause engine damage or poor vehicle performance. Ethanol has been used in diesel engines, but this application has strong barriers, primarily the stability (Ethanolis not soluble with diesel at low temperatures) and bad ignition quality (cetane number) of diesel-Ethanol blends.A special and less controversial way to blend Ethanol in gasoline is ETBE. ETBE is produced at refineries through reactions with isobutene. ETBE can be blended with gasoline to percentages defined by oxygen content legislation without any technical problem in vehicle performance.Bio-diesel/FAME (Fatty Acid Methyl Esters)FAME, also commonly known as bio-diesel, is the most common bio-fuel used in diesel engines. FAME is not a single molecule like Ethanol, but a mixture of several methylic esters of different fatty acids, depending on the original vegetable (or animal) oil used in the production process. Vegetable oils are primarily composed of triglycerides (glycerol esters of fatty acids). Theoretically, PVOs can be used in diesel engines but are strongly disapproved by the most important car and fuel injection equipment manufacturers for several reasons. The production of bio-diesel is more geographically dispersed than Ethanol. Germany leads the world's production. The esterification process for bio-diesel manufacture is relatively simple and takes place at normal pressure and ambient temperatures. The reaction to produce FAME is in fact a set of three reactions: from triglycerides to diglycerides, from diglycerides to monoglycerides, and a final step to convert monoglycerides to FAME. Catalysts are used to improve reaction rate and yield. FAME is mainly produced from rapeseed (canola), palm, soybean and sunflower oils feedstocks. Jatropha oil has also recently entered the market. There is also research into using other plants (brassica carinata, crambe abyssinica, camelina, jojoba, etc.). It is also possible to use used cooking oil and animal fats, and research on lipids originating from algae is currently underway.PropertiesFAME is a complex mix of compounds, and its specifications must regulate characteristics to ensure correct engine behavior (cetane number, cold filter plugging point [CFPP] or oxidation stability. FAME is fully soluble and compatible with diesel oil. The main differences between FAME and diesel oil are:Lower heating value (equivalent to less energetic density)Low temperature operabilityLower stabilityAs it happened with bio-ethanol, the heating value of bio-diesel is lower than conventional diesel. The difference in density creates a difference between the two products of about 8 % in volume and 12.5 % less energy per weight unit. This difference creates higher fuel consumption, which depends on the percentage of FAME in the fuel. Low-temperature properties of bio-diesel are also a critical specification. Individual FAME products have different properties, related to their composition and impurities from the production process. Stability is related to the fuel's tendency to form deposits that could induce filter blocking or foul injector nozzles in vehicles, and also if the product can be stored during long periods. Stability depends on the original vegetable oil, which impacts the type of seed used for the raw material. Oils with more unsaturated fatty acid chains produce less stable FAME, and antioxidants must be added. Although additives may solve this technical barrier, additive response depends on the feedstock, with FAME from sunflower oil being the most difficult to treat. In addition, the presence of metals increases the amount of insoluble deposits formed. In a vehicle it is very difficult to avoid the presence of trace copper or zinc, and therefore antioxidant additives may not be enough. When metals are present, FAME blends require stabilizing additives, and some reports strongly recommend the use of metal-deactivating additives in modern engine injection systems (small hole injectors, small tolerances, and extremely high working pressures). FAEE has not been widely studied in vehicles, but it is expected to behave similarly to FAME.HandlingFAME is usually blended with diesel fuel at refineries because FAME-diesel blends are compatible with delivery networks. Nevertheless, transportation of FAME blends in multi-product pipelines is highly restricted to prevent cross-contamination in the supply chain between diesel and other fuels that may only accept FAME traces, such as jet fuels, heating oil, and marine gasoil. Due to its hygroscopic nature, FAME blends may contain more water than hydrocarbon fuels. As water separation is more difficult, proper water management is essential at the refineries and the terminals when FAME is handled. Because water exposure facilitates biological growth, particularly when FAME is present, tanks containing FAME and FAME-diesel blends should also be checked periodically for the presence of microbiological contamination. FAME has a very good solvent capacity. Bio-diesel may dissolve accumulated sediments in storage tanks, which may lead to later injector and filter plugging. In addition, FAME also exhibits compatibility problems with some polymers (polyethylene, polypropylene) and rubbers (natural and nitrile rubbers). Some metallic components may also be affected by bio-diesel blends.End UseFAME is currently blended at low percentages (up to 7 %) with fossil diesel in Europe. Some vehicle manufacturers are opposed to exceeding this amount, but other vehicle manufacturers have proposed up to 30 %. Vehicle manufacturers and injection equipment manufacturers do have some concerns regarding FAME use in modern diesel vehicles, particularly in engines with common rail injection systems. Problems with the dilution of FAME into lubricants have been also noted in vehicles with particulate traps in the exhaust pipe. In the United States, B20 (20 % FAME) is the most commonly used bio-diesel. Higher blends are possible but may require equipment or engine modifications. It is possible to use pure FAME in dedicated engines. FAME performs very similarly to conventional diesel in engines when all of the appropriate specifications (such as ASTM or EN) are observed. No problems with driveability or startability have been described. However, because the heating value of FAME is less than that of diesel fuel (92 % of energy content from conventional diesel in a volumetric basis), fuel consumption increases (fuel economy decreases) when the engine consumes FAME (approximately 1 % less distance per litre in the case of B10). Modern diesel vehicles are more sensitive to water and sediment in the fuel due to the very fine tolerances required by their high-pressure fuel injection systems. However, even after clean, dry fuel has been delivered, vehicle factors must also be considered to achieve problem-free operation. Because FAME is more aggressive to elastomers, its compatibility with certain materials must also be checked. In general, regulated exhaust emissions decrease except for emissions of NOx, which increase slightly. Particulate matter emissions decrease even when compared with low aromatic, nonsulfur (S

Car owners share preferred seating configurations in their vehicles

BHPian amalji recently shared this with other enthusiasts. Ever since I got introduced to an MPV ( The innova Crysta ), I have been exposed to this new world of flexibility in seating arrangements in a vehicle. Many of it has been of great use to us. I thought of sharing a few of the seating configurations that we have found very useful. Please feel free to use the same thread for sharing seating configurations used on other type of vehicles as well which you found very useful. And it doesn't even have to be an MPV. The humble Honda Jazz with Magic seats or even the Maruti Suzuki Wagon R could put many of our modern SUVs to shame in terms of seating flexibility. The Relax Mode:If there are only 3 travellers and 2 of them want to be in the most relaxed position, this is the seating configuration we use.Configuration for the 2nd passengerSlide left 2nd row seat to the rear most position.Remove headrest from front passenger seat.Slide front passenger seat to the front most position.Recline the front passenger seat so that the top of the seat joins the 2nd row seat. Configuration for the 3rd passenger: Adjust the recline of 3rd row right side seat to maximum recline. Slide the 2nd row right side seat to the rear most position to close the gap as much as possible between rear and 2nd row seat. Adjust the recline of the 2nd row right side seat so that it gets converted into a footrest as shown in the photo. We have family members with knee issues and this seating position has been such a blessing for us on long trips. A typical drive to my hometown is 11 hours and it's this seating position which gives us the confidence to drive home without 2nd thoughts. A few hours of the journey on this kind of seating is enough to get the stretching needed for the knees. The front seats are kept slightly above the rear seat to make it more comfortable. The headrest is placed under the seats so that it doesn't turn into a projectile in case of an accident. Generally we try and give it more packing by placing a small luggage as well along with it. This is how close the 'foot rest' is from the 3rd row seat. View from the 3rd passenger's sitting position. View from the 2nd passenger's sitting position Safety precautions:I will not recommend reclining the 2nd row seat completely since the seatbelt might not hold you with proper grip in case of an accident.Any loose objects inside the car is a potential projectile in case of an accident. So, make sure that the headrest removed is properly secured.Here's what GTO had to say on the matter:In all my cars, I am only at the front. Either I am driving... OR ...on the front passenger seat. Even when I am being chauffeur-driven, I sit only on the front seat (not the back seat). Reasons = more legroom, seat is way more adjustable than the backseat, the front seat is safer (more airbags & proven in crash tests), I can control the music and the AC is cooler in the front seat. You'll usually see me working on my laptop in the front seat, if its on a weekday. In terms of seating configurations, I mostly have sedans so it's standard fare. However, with my Jeeps: This is how 3 of us travel in the Thar, due to zero boot space. Later learnt that we can wrap the seatbelt around the luggage to hold it in place: With the Classic, the seating configuration is just for 2 . Have thrown the rear seat away: Here's what BHPian condor had to say on the matter:2 + 3 is what I want. 3rd row expendable most times. Bench for 2nd row because it allows my mom to sleep when travelling long distances. And a bench here allows for 3-4 people, based on the situation. In the possibility of a reclining position by combining two seats on the left, I still would not use that since: either a co-passenger would sit there, or I use that space to keep stuff when I am driving.Here's what BHPian SmartCat had to say on the matter:A few seat configurations we have used: 2 adults/ 2 kids/ 2 bicycles mode: Note that third row seat is still useable. Note that the green bicycle does not budge because of bicycle lean & front tyre angle. But it can be tied to folded 2nd row seat if needed to make it even more secure. Outdoor plants +house moving mode: The ability to partition the cargo area into separate compartments (like Jazz Magic Seats) helps here. Muddy/dirty/fragile pots can be kept separate from other stuff: Kids play area: Here's what BHPian hrk997 had to say on the matter:I'm a tall person, so i push the seat fully back, fully down and incline it somewhat straight so I have a good view of the road. I'm never able to see the bonnet so i always lean forward when I'm in tight parking situations. Passengers cannot sit behind me. The only car where they've been able to sit is in the E class, not even the endeavor. The position is super comfortable. I lean the seat even further behind in highways.Here's what BHPian Osteon206 had to say on the matter:I prefer a 2+3 layout with a large boot space and flat folding split rear seat which could be used effectively to rest. The cars that fall in this layout IMO - Hector, Harrier, XUV700 5 seater. This way on road trips there will be ample luggage space and on the occasion we want to rest in the stationary car, can lie down comfortably. Added advantage would be if front passenger seat backrest can be folded down in continuity with rear seat - that way when driving continuously the second driver may rest wearing seat belt. Another car I absolutely loved was the old Jazz with the magic seats. If only Triber had a more powerful engine, I'd prefer that as well.Check out BHPian comments for more insights and information.

Brought home a Mahindra MM550DX Jeep as an impulse buy: Here's why

BHPian tatafanatic recently shared this with other enthusiasts. Prelude There are days when one walks into trouble and then there are days when trouble walks right into ones path, I had them both in plenty but in either of cases the mode of transport that took me into trouble and saved me from trouble remained the same, it was called 'Rakshak', was a heavily armored Mahindra commander jeep which many a times motivated us to get out there and put up a nasty fight, simply as it got supremely cramped and boiling hot with us all suited up, the drivers who were well trained in maneuvering these not so user friendly vehicles gave choicest and extremely innovative abuses when times came to make a get away from a hot spot. As I climbed the ladder of seniority from getting into cramped vehicles, I got something more sublime and that feeling got me moments of joy but very soon I learned in my line of work almighty had different gameplan so back to rigidity it was, overall these Rakshak's were my companions for almost over a decade and thus we did bond!!! PS - during a stint in middle east I saw them forces moving around in Landcruiser's, now that thing is a beast but maneuvers around like a toy, if only we had something more like them, we'd go hunting daily!!! Padharo Rajasthan We buds often meet on Microsoft teams, I love the sight of seeing proper grown men who carried stars on their shoulders and battle honors on their chest going crazy on muting and unmuting online, for fun sake I do the 'mute them all' thing and watch them go nuts!! During one such meet a bud now turned hotelier based in Udaipur invited us to a get together at his place, he wanted to showoff his do and his new job and his newfound status in the society and we were always game for lap of luxury at someone else's cost!!! What I did not envisage and maybe I say this for my wife who now handles my idiosyncrasies full time is that I would return home with a jeep, more as it happened. Bud in name of recreating nostalgia sent out Mahindra commanders to fetch us from the airport, now the ones he sent were refurbished and had creature comforts with a proper air conditioning. As we travelled in laps of comfort and luxury (leather seats and upholstery) to his do which was some clicks away from the airport I could not help thinking years ago in this very same vehicle I had such bad feeling about travel, some of my experiences were outright horrible but then those were times!!! We had a splendid weekend, almost all of us turned from olives to maroons in the deserts of Rajasthan but the beauty of the place never occurred to us back then, only when we became tourists with touristy time, we understood how beautiful the place really is, as a matter of fact I have travelled much across the globe and found India to be complete in tourism terms. Needless to say, in my profession I traveled really deep into the trenches as they say and if we didn't have nosy neighbors many of those places would have been a tourists delight, especially the North East. Commander Saab ki Commander I couldn't lay my eyes off those refurbished commander jeeps, one evening I asked my bud from where and for how much he managed to get hold of them and his eyes all lit up, he said 'tomorrow we go to the magicians den', I had no clues what that meant but who sweats with a 6 foot giant. Next day true to his word we drove down the 'magicians den', it was rickety chop shop belonging to Rana Hakim a rusted tank driver now turned Commander jeep savior, what he had done was truly amazing, some of the refurbishments were splendid, Rana doesn't entertain photography as he feels there will be copycats who he'd have to tank down later!! As we got talking and seeing his collection I candidly asked if there was open down commander if at all by some remote chance he'd willing to sell, as the adage goes Gods Must Be Crazy, Rana did have one in store who he'd all done for a couple from Delhi who eventually didn't honor the commitment and now he was indeed scouting new buyers, I requested a look around and absolutely loved what I saw, it was simple had simple creature comforts called cushioned seats, the electricals were minimal, the shocks and tyres were new and boy the color, it went like a dart to my heart. Rana was not asking much as well, he wanted me to take good care of it in case I proceeded with purchase, so now came the tricky part, I had to make a call, the recipient of that call was used to surprises but made her objections loud and clear, so to mitigate the risk I clicked pictures and then called, again Gods Must be crazy but wife said this looked fine, daughter there for holidays said I should drop her back to med school in it so that she'd look cool , in no time my entire clan came calling how they planned various outings in an open jeep which they always dreamed off, so much for parting simple information!!! The Epic 900km journey from Udaipur to SolanBUT Now Udaipur to Solan is a mighty 930kms apart, me and I assume even Rana the magician had very little confidence the jeep would make this journey in peace, we even contemplated this might be her last journey before falling in harness. After some kabuki dance of what to do and what not to do me and two buds who also reside in HP decided lets just get going. Rana sent a mechanic just in case things tumbled south, the guy was also from services so took our courage (in layman terms stupidity) in stride. But sometimes things don't really go the intended way, it occurred after a small drive around the lake city that the refurbished jeep was more of a trophy arrangement which at best could run routine and local errands, a 900 kms journey was too much of an ask, it was doable but not wort if there were breakdowns, I had to fly to Japan for work and this would hamper my schedule as well, so we got thinking. Rana the magician was back to novel ideas, as such he was going to transport the vehicle by road to the erstwhile owners in Delhi and had already charged them freight cost, they did not turn up but hadn't asked for their money back either so Rana suggested he'd get the Jeep transported to Delhi and from there I could drive back to Solan which we all agreed would be a doable and easier and convenient option. Commander comes home The jeep reached Delhi in over a weeks' time, I had it parked at my aunts place as they had an enclosed parking and it was pouring buckets in the capital, in the meantime I travelled to Japan for work (had planned to cycle there but my hosts thought that would be disastrous for many reasons so dropped). Delhi to Solan is a good 300kms of a journey and it passes through some rough uphill sections, rain had played havoc in HP, so generic road conditions were bad, I delayed the option of getting the vehicle by road till conditions improved. My aunt and her family in meanwhile were having ball of a time enjoying local rides in the jeep, they said they had become talk of town and some local newspaper even took pictures and published under Happy Senior Citizens enjoying an Open Jeep Finally the good day arrived, I took my driver along leaving nothing to chance. The drive from Delhi to Chandigarh isn't eventful, its simple straight road and pretty much has many roadside mechanics options incase need be, eventually things didn't tank, Rana had done a fine job refurbishing, we completed the journey sans any drama. PS - Chandigarh and Bhopal is where Jeeps really feel at home, one can see numerous refurbished jeeps, some way older than mine. We stopped on the way at PGI where my kid studies, I treated her and her friends to lunch, the jeep gobbled them all with room to spare, now with medical students one must remember time is of essence, so we had to speed up returning from lunch and then too the Jeep didn't fall short on energy, she did cough dark smoke but then for an aged vehicle I believed that was obvious. I wish to believe it was not just the jeep that caught the all-girl gangs attention when I heard one of her friends say I wish my boyfriend was half as fit as your dad Stopped at my brothers in Panchkula, he's moved from Kia Seltos to Kia Carnival, a monstrous vehicle that looks more like a glorified ambulance (yup the grapes are sour), now he did his bit of showoff with his lawyer pals who asked me to ensure paperwork etc was fine incase border cops turned on to mischief, thanked them for their concern, a few of them border cops have had a nasty experience with my heavy hand when they tried to pull a smart one for no rhyme and reason. Finally by late evening I made it home, Rana had put bright LED's which really helped but in all the jiffy I totally forgot to ask for a cover, once we entered HP the rain gods came in plenty and by the time we reached home we were soaked wet, the first order of the day was to get a cover but then I deferred when my wife said what's an open jeep that doesn't remain open, the next day drove her to work where she did her bit off showoffTill now on my own I have clocked 1000kms in it and she is running fine, its not my primary vehicle (Ciaz gets that honor) but on weekends we do go driving and enjoying the drive to the fullest. PS - there never goes a day when I do not remember what all I lost in the same vehicle under different circumstances and how much I appreciate what all I could have lost but the vehicles sheer rigidity prevented that from happening Jeepsy Anecdote from previous life I was stationed in the mountains and had the same jeep as my go to vehicle, my rider back then was Dhan Ratan Singh who folded his hands bowing to almighty every time the needle touched 40kmph, not one or twice but every single time, now there are rigorous idiosyncrasies amongst uniformed men but this was unique so one day I enquired the rationale made me laugh (in hinglish) DR Singh - Saab ek raat hum Brigadier Shukla ko station le ja raahe the, jungle ka raasta tha to kaafi andhera tha, taab Brigadier saab ki aankh lag gaayi aur who humpe let liye, achaanak se brake laagaye aur brigadier saab bonet se gaaye seedhe jeep ke neeche, who uthe shaayad bhagwan se humaara lagaav hoga aur bole aare Dhan yahaan itna andhera kaaise aur hum chaal liye, aab aap hi baatayen yaadi bhagwaan ka lagaav nahi hota to Brigadier saab to hummari chutti na kaar dete!!! Me - aab iska 40kmph se kya lena DR Singh - jaab brigadier saab ki aankh laagi aur ye kaand hua to hum 40 ke speed pe the, aab prarthana kaar raahe hain ki aap ki aankh is speed pe na laage !!! Some parting shots and more when a long ride eventually happens, hope was a good read Read BHPian comments for more insights and information.

Gang involved in auto-rickshaw thefts from Mumbai and Thane held

The Bhiwandi Crime Branch unit of the Thane Police has arrested a gang of four men involved in stealing auto-rickshaws from Mumbai and Thane. They would alter the number plates and sell the stolen vehicles in interior regions of Maharashtra. The police have recovered 18 stolen rickshaws and have solved 12 cases so far. The arrested men have been identified as Rashid Khan, Sayyed Ali Shaikh, Ehtesham Siddiqui, and Jamil Ansari.

Kashmir''s first auto-cross motorsport event being held in Srinagar

Kashmir''s first auto-cross motorsport event being held in Srinagar A three-day auto-cross motorsports event is being held in the Kashmir valley from Friday, which aims to provide a platform for both established and aspiring racers. The motorsport event, from September 22-24, is through collaboration between the J&K Motorsport Federation (JKMSF) and the Federation of Motorsports Clubs of India (FMSCI). The event is being held on a two-kilometre long close circuit track at Nowgam, in the outskirts of the city. On specially designed circuits, head-to-head competitions are taking place that demand precision, agility, and split-second decision-making. We have brought professionals to make this track, FMSCI officials are here to regulate this event, we have taken care of all safety measures here like ambulances, fire tenders etc , Amrit Pal Singh Bali, an official with the JKMSF, told PTI. Bali said the Kashmir valley is full of talent but lacks platforms to showcase skills. We want those youths who are wasting time and energy on roads, to come on these tracks and show their skills. We have talent here but we need platforms so they can showcase their skills, he said. This is second day of event and more than 100 (have) participated till now. More entries (are) coming as people are unaware about the auto cross, (but) they came to know through social media etc, Bali added. Shiekh Yasir, one of the organisers of the event, said they had not expected such a response. I was surprised to see people turn up. They are actually showing interest and coming all the way to this place to participate in it, he said. Yasir informed that they are planning motocross and other events for bikers. This for the first time this motorsports is happening here and especially for the first time in Srinagar. It will be helpful for us, said a participant named Mehboob-ul-Hussain. Another participant, Kaiser Ahmeda said, We also request the government for support, to provide us proper space for practice etc. The youth should not do stunts on roads which (could be) fatal, they should participate in events like these and learn it in proper way. There is good scope in these sports if the government supports us, he said.

Anupam Kher land in Kolkata for new autobiographical play

Kolkata, Sep 23 (IANS) Veteran actor Anupam Kher, as he gears up for the release of his next film The Vaccine War, has gone to [...]

Biden WillVisit Striking Auto Workers In Michigan

President Joe Biden will travel to Michigan on Tuesday to support striking United Auto Workers union members, according to people familiar with the matter, in a show of solidarity during tense contract negotiations with Detroits Big Three automakers.

Bengaluru auto driver drives around sitting on an office chair. Pic is viral - Moneycontrol

Bengaluru auto driver drives around sitting on an office chair. Pic is viral Moneycontrol

Grand Theft Auto Bengaluru: Driver ditches seat for gaming chair. Viral

Grand Theft Auto Bengaluru Driver ditches seat for gaming chair Viral

MG Hector & Hector Plus prices reduced by up to Rs 1.37 lakh

MG Motor India has reduced the prices of the Hector and Hector Plus SUVs by up to Rs 1.29 lakh and Rs 1.37 lakh, respectively. Following the latest price revision, the Hector range starts at Rs 14.73 lakh for the Style Petrol MT variant and Rs 17.99 lakh for the Shine Diesel MT trim. The price of the top-spec Savvy Pro Petrol CVT variant has been reduced by Rs 66,000. It now costs Rs 21.73 lakh. The top-spec Sharp Pro Diesel MT costs Rs 21.51 lakh (ex-showroom), a price cut of Rs 1.21 lakh. The base Hector Plus costs Rs 17.50 lakh, which is Rs 50,000 less, while the base diesel variant costs Rs 19.76 lakh, a price cut of Rs 1.04 lakh. The Savvy Pro Petrol CVT variant costs Rs 22.43 lakh, while the top-spec diesel trim is priced at Rs 22.21 lakh (ex-showroom). The MG Hector and Hector Plus SUVs are available with two engine options. These include a 1.5-litre turbo-petrol engine producing 141 BHP and 250 Nm and a 2.0-litre diesel unit that puts out 168 BHP and 350 Nm. Transmission options include a 6-speed manual and CVT. Source: Autocar India

One killed, five hurt as dump truck hits auto-rickshaw in Bosila

A man was killed and five others were injured as a dump truck rammed a CNG-run-autorickshaw in Dhaka's Bosila area this morning

India-bound 3rd-gen Volkswagen Tiguan unveiled

Volkswagen has taken the wraps off the third-generation Tiguan. The new model is based on the latest iteration of the MQB Evo platform and comes with an updated plug-in hybrid powertrain. The 2024 Tiguan is 30 mm longer than the outgoing version. As a result, boot space has increased to 652 litres. Volkswagen has made several changes to the exterior design of the Tiguan. The SUV gets a sleeker front fascia, courtesy of a slimmer grille and gloss black surfaces. The dual-pod LED headlamps also have a smoked effect. The rear end of the Tiguan is based on VW's newest design philosophy. It features Taigun-like wraparound tail lamps housed inside a single continuous unit. It also features an LED light bar. The interior of the Tiguan gets a major upgrade over the old model. The centre console houses a massive 15-inch touchscreen infotainment system. The dashboard has a minimalistic look thanks to the lack of physical buttons. The SUV gets a 3-spoke flat-bottom steering wheel and a digital instrument cluster, with the front seats getting massage, heating and ventilation functions. The 2024 VW Tiguan comes with two PHEV powertrain options, with either 201 BHP or 265 BHP. The PHEV version is equipped with a 19.7 kWh battery that offers an all-electric range of 100 km. VW also offers the Tiguan with a 1.5-litre turbocharged 4-cylinder engine paired with a 48-volt mild-hybrid system. It also gets cylinder deactivation tech. Customers also get the option of a 2.0-litre engine producing 201 BHP or 261 BHP. Volkswagen has carried over the 2.0-litre diesel engine. It is available in two states of tune - 148 BHP and 190 BHP. The third-generation Volkswagen Tiguan is expected to debut in India by the end of 2024.

Comparison between 50 lakh Skoda Kodiaq and 85 lakh Mercedes GLC 300

BHPian SilverSmoke recently shared this with other enthusiasts.Kodiaq 2.0 TSI VS GLC 300One of our family members purchased the 2023 GLC 300. I drove it to my heart's content. Hybrid battery - Varta 80 AH is kept in the boot. Ambient lighting is among the best I have seen. Plastics on the steering wheel are cheap. Projected logo looks dope - has good definition. Interiors surely look inviting. Paint quality is pretty good. Engine bay looks nicely packed & organised. No rear temperature & fan controls. Steering feel is just right & sporty. Automated seat adjustments related to height are good but not accurate - need to be fine-tuned. Wheels look decent & sharp - not overly fancy. Real-time air quality monitoring is a good addition. Sound quality is very good - even at higher volumes. Air vents infused with some metals feel premium. Upholstery color doesn't get dirty easily - good for families with kids. Blind spot detector in work - sorely missed in Kodiaq. Dashboard design is premium & doesn't catch dust or fingerprints.Better than Kodiaq:Peppy engine with electric motor support - acceleration & handling is better. 255 BHP 400 NM.Body roll is minimal.Premium interiors.MBUX is way better & works very smoothly & controls a lot of the car.Steering feels sturdy & has better feedback.Ambient lights are on a different level.Burmester is definitely north of Canton.Badge value & social status.Real-time cabin air monitoring.Blind spot warning system - a great addition for Indian traffic.Gear shifts via a steering stick at a flick of the finger.Worse than Kodiaq:Headlights - literally 1/3rd of Kodiaq's. Even at high beams, I was sure that they would increase further, but they didn't.Space - Less in front - lesser at back.Seats - only heated seats - not even simple ventilation is provided - useless for mid & southern India - a sore.No temperature / fan controls at rear.No keyless entry - was amazed.No tail light animations.Suspension is stiffer than Kodiaq's & even small undulations filter into the cabin.Honest Conclusion:Can I go for it?Yes, at around 65 L OTR - with better headlights.But at 85 OTR, a definite NO.From now on, my respect for Skoda has increased for delivering an amazing machine at such a price. Time will test the reliability of both. Here's what GTO had to say about the matter:In just a few pictures & pointers, you have perfectly summarized the value equation provided by cars like the Kodiaq & gang. The cars in the 35 - 50 lakh range have greatly improved their offerings & provide you with all the utility / luxury you need. Anything above that is driven purely by desire, badge etc.Here's what BHPian Old Dude had to say about the matter:Very interesting comparison with the GLC. Thank you, Silver Smoke, for making me feel good (or say better) about my Kodiaq. I had an Aha! moment about DCC settings the other day - was returning from Mysore to Bangalore late night after attending a function and entered Bangalore a tad past midnight. As I exited the expressway, I cleverly (or so I thought) switched the DCC to comfort considering the pathetic Bangalore Road condition and that I had my passengers sleeping like a baby. As the traffic was fairly light, I was able to do insane speeds of 40 to 60KMPH (by Bangalore city standards) between Kengeri to Hudson Circle. That is when I realised the pathetic situation of Bangalore road surfaces - which are suitable only for the crawling speeds we can do during normal hours. My passengers were rudely awakened by the tossing and bouncing around and I was yelled at for being such a rough driver. As I proceeded further, I played with the DCC settings and realised the tossing and bouncing significantly reduced with the DCC in normal and Sport modes - Lesson learnt: On bad road surfaces, the Comfort mode is comfortable only at low speeds, while even at speeds of 40 to 60, the stiffer modes are better.Here's what BHPian RaiAnish had to say about the matter:I love the Kodiaq for what it offers at the price but the interiors look slightly outdated now. With the reveal of the new one, I think it's going to be a perfect all-rounder. Any views on what price increase we can expect for the 2024 variant? Here's what BHPian aeroabir had to say about the matter:Interestingly the US version of GLC-300 has keyless entry. I am also satisfied with the performance of the headlights. In addition to temperature/fan control at the rear, what is also missing is the ability to control the fan for the driver/passenger side individually (this can be done for the temperature alone).Check out BHPian comments for more insights and information.

Ginger supplements can be beneficial in treating autoimmune diseases: Study

New York, Sep 23 (IANS) Ginger supplements can play an important role in controlling inflammation for people living with autoimmune diseases, a new study has [...]

6,000 km with my 2022 BMW X3 30i: Here's my experience

BHPian CEF_Beasts recently shared this with other enthusiasts. Haven't updated the thread in a while so here it goes... The car hit the 6000kms mark on 18th April, the day I got to meet @vishy76 and his Fiat President. @vishy76 drove the X3 as well. The X3 didn't see any Expressway till August '23 ever since my last update on 27th March '23, all the running was within the city itself. May '23 was pretty much action-less other than catching a movie at the drive-in theatre in BKC. In June '23 the car's front right tire had got a puncture, on starting the car to take it within the city-limits the TPMS system gave the dreaded warning. The front right tire was at 23psi compared to the rest of the tires which were at 31/32 psi. Had the puncture (a nail) removed at the new Indian Oil pump on JVLR. Also got to test-drive the new U11 X1 MSport 18d in mid-June. Detailed post on the X1 has been posted in its respective thread. At the beginning of July '23 the car hit the 7000kms mark. One of the key fob's battery had got discharged, so duly changed it as it had popped up a notification on the instrument cluster. A few random pictures In mid-July just one day before leaving for a break to Australia, I had taken the car to meet my grandparents. While I had parked the car inside the gated society in the designated guest parking, someone managed to hit the car and was no where to be seen when I was leaving to go back home! This was the first dent that any of our cars has gotten while I had taken the car out alone, even if I was not behind the wheel at that time, it was a pretty sad day for me. I didn't check the CCTV camera because I was in a hurry to go back home since we were leaving early morning the next day and had several things to do as well. The same day I searched the forum for any shop which does Paintless Dent Removal, I came across a post where one of the forum member got the dent on his VW Taigun removed by Mr. Sudhir Gaikwad who has a workshop in Pune. Since Phytonic Blue is a slightly darker colour, the shadows were hiding the dent but focus light on the right rear quarter and one could see the dent perfectly. I just didn't want to drive the car with the dent. As soon as we were back from Australia, I contacted Mr. Sudhir in August, who told me he was coming to Mumbai on a Saturday for PDR in Mulund and I requested him to come to my place after that. Mr. Sudhir is an expert and removed the dent very professionally, I got my Fortuner's age old dent removed as well. I highly recommend his PDR procedure for both Pune and Mumbai Folks. He did tell me maximum customers mention they got his reference from T-BHP. Leaving his number (+91-9552629516) so that Pune/Mumbai folks who need to avail PDR can call him. Continue reading BHPian CEF_Beast's ownership update on his X3 30i for more insights and information.

US auto strike spreads to 38 GM, Stellantis NV parts distribution centers

Chicago, Sep 23 (IANS) The United Auto Workers (UAW) has expanded its strike against the big three US automakers to 38 General Motors Co. and [...]

Replacing my Fiesta with a Virtus: Should I consider the Kushaq as well

BHPian Rohit_Quad recently shared this with other enthusiasts. This is going to be a long post. I'll start with a bit of the background. I own a 1st-gen Ford Fiesta 1.4 Petrol EXI, which is my solo ride now. It has run close to 1.5L km and has been serviced at a Ford service center its whole life. Been a bit of a white elephant lately, as I am someone who does not like knocking noises while driving. Also, the car might need a clutch kit soon. Maybe because of the worn out clutch, the car does not feel spritely anymore. There is a hesitation while accelerating, but it does pull from lower speed in 2nd and even 3rd gears. Apart from a full service every 8-9 months, these are some of the parts that I remember that were changed over the period of the last 1 year:Steering Rack.A/C condenser kit (dashboard removed and the set was changed)BrakesTyresStruts all around, sway bar bushes & link rodsLower suspension armsStarter motorHead unit - Pioneer 2 din non-touchHead unit bracketBatteryRocker cover seal kitCustom new artificial leather seat coversGearbox mount and gearbox oilWindscreenPower window motor (driver side front) and the glass movement channel beadings (both front)Front door weatherThe car rides on 185/70 R14 Goodyear Assurance Triplemax 2 tyres with no rubbing of the liners in any situation, and has gained a comfy low-speed ride (with a bit of sacrifice WRT handling). Spark plugs, engine oil additive and fuel system cleaner are something I address after every service. The RC has been renewed till 2026 and I get comprehensive insurance from Digit every year which costs around another ~7K. So as one can see, it has been a constant money pit and my usage has greatly reduced over the past few years - maybe 1 road trip every 6 months and around 30 km every day in the city. Most of the time, I am the solo occupant and the only driver. There are some minor oil seepages, but there's no oil consumption of any sort. The clutch is very light, but the gearbox needs some effort, sometimes from 2nd to 3rd. I feel the flywheel could be the culprit, as I remember it being changed, maybe at 10 years at a then dodgy Ford SC with the wrong flywheel. One can feel the flywheel taking time to spin down between gear changes. That is my feeling. I could be wrong and it could be a synchro issue too. The car looks fine, as I get its panels repainted at an FNG, or polished if I notice any big scratches. So, I have been eyeing the Virtus since it was launched and my budget permits me to go for a 1.0L manual (full loan). The thing I liked about the Virtus mid variant is that it is fully loaded - that 1.0L gem of an engine, LED headlights, alloy wheels, 8 speakers, cruise control and wireless changer, 10-inch screen with wireless Android Auto & Apple CarPlay and some sort of interior lighting. I was initially inclined towards the base variant as it had most of the things except for alloy wheels, fog lamps, 7-inch head unit, central arm rest, and rear A/C vents. I was fine with those omissions too, but the matte grey exterior lower bumper portion makes the car look like THE budget variant. The chrome inserts on the mid variant along with the glossy dashboard (+10 inch head unit), make the car look good (in my opinion). Hence, I was closing in on the mid variant. For some reason, I went to the Skoda showroom and had a look at the Kushaq mid variant (I think they are similarly priced). It was loaded too, but did miss out on a few things the Virtus mid variant had, noticeably:8-inch head unit, wired CarPlay & Android Auto vs the 10-inch wireless6 speakers vs 8 in the VirtusI think it misses out on a wireless chargerAnd the biggest issue was the size / looks - looks more like a sub-4 meter SUV in my opinion. Even hatchbacks look bigger next to it (i20, Altroz, etc) Me, being 6.1 ft tall and a healthy 90 kg, I feel it might look small for someone my size. The main reason for the dilemma, even if I cross over the omissions from the Kushaq mid variant 1.0 MT, is the plastic cladding all around the car's lower portion (which is present in all SUV's these days). The roads here in Hyderabad are horrendous and have these gravel stones all around. Thinking from a longevity standpoint, will the Kushaq fare better, maybe 5-7 years later? OR am I worrying over nothing? I notice, many new sedans on the roads here have scratches, especially where the fenders meet the bumper, just over the wheel arches and similarly at the rear quarter panel, over the wheel arch, meeting the bumper. These could be just minor brushes with other vehicles, but I am under the impression that the plastic cladding might protect the panel in such cases. The reason why the Slavia and Taigun were not considered is because of the lack of LED head lights in the mid spec variants. Kindly give your thoughts, which will greatly help with my decision. Here's what BHPian Jangra had to say on the matter:For context, I owned a Vento for nearly 7 years and upgraded to 2 segments higher - a Skoda Kodiaq. Though I'm very happy with its possession, as it is an amazing machine and keeps my family happy, it left a void in me for a sedan. I infact also noted in the Not so good section of my Kodiaq thread. Anyway, the point I'm trying to make is that, if you are a sedan enthusiast, stick to sedan. Virtus has a ground clearance of a crossover and handles like a sedan. In fact, the void was so much so that we bought a Virtus to fulfil the need of a second car in the family, and it has brought back that smile in me with its spritely drives in the city and those hill corners- something the crossover cannot do. Go for Virtus! I see you're looking for a manual transmission, but I suggest you try their AT. A lot of us are now Automatic converts, especially for the city drives - it's a boon. And, since you did not mention the budget, please also test drive their 1.5 liter GT variant, I feel the engine will satisfy you for years to come.Here's what BHPian TheFonz had to say on the matter:I'm assuming you have test driven both of them. The seating position is on the lower side on Virtus as compared to Kushaq. I was in a similar dilemma few months back between Virtus GT plus and Kushaq Monte Carlo 1.5. Ended up buying the Virtus GT plus as IMHO it had better road presence apart from the obvious things going for it being a sedan. I have been enjoying it since. My suggestion is to Go for Virtus and go for the 1.5 evo engine if you can, it will make you smile.Here's what BHPian Torque123 had to say on the matter:If higher seating position & ground clearance are not a must have requirements for you then my suggestion is to go for the Virtus due to the following reasons:Definitely has better road presence than Kushaq or Taigun. I love it in white colour (personal choice).Being a sedan, it will be more fun to drive & will handle better than Kushaq or Taigun (very important for you as you have owned a Fiesta)May have lesser ground clearance than Kushaq but it is more than sufficient to handle even the worst of the speed breakers.As pointed out by others earlier, if possible go for the 1.5 TSI. You will have that grin plastered on your face 24/7.Here's what BHPian CArspeed had to say on the matter:Your queries point out to few aspects like ground clearance, some differential features like UI, speakers, and wireless chargers and also the space inside. I have test driven both and I find that inspite of being shorter in length, the Kushaq and Virtus has similar wheelbase. It had a good amount of leg room and I am 5.11 for reference. Regarding your observation on damages to fenders and wheel arches in a sedan vis a vis a SUV, that's the USP of CSUV and you can't defy the law of physics. I have an Altis for more than 12 years and I am contemplating to consider a CSUV like Taigun/Kushaq/Compass as these CSUV handles really well. I was particularly astonished when I test drove the Compass with its amazing cornering capabilities. As regards the driving dynamics, although Virtus being a sedan has a good advantage, since Kushaq is also tightly sprung underneath and may also be owing to the shorter width(expert can comment here) I found the Kushaq equally good over corners. I also found the boot of Kushaq very accommodating. Ultimately, you have to choose between the feature sets that goes well with your requirements at the given price point vis a vis the advantages of a Kushaq being an SUV.Here's what BHPian Puneet0051 had to say on the matter:Rohit let me try and answer your queries as i own both - Kushaq 1.0 AT Mid variant and Virtus mid variant 1.0 MT both 2023 model. You have already highlighted few observations between the two,adding few more comparing these mid variants only:Sound quality is better in Virtus.Keyless entry a small thing but extremely convenient in Virtus.Interiors of both side by side - Virtus defintely looks better.Exterior - Virtus has better presence for sure.Alloys - Both are ugly but out of the two, Virtus looks better.Led lights in Virtus has got a good throw but Kushaq has better projectors here.Steering feel and buttons - Virtus is better with no blank button. Kushaq has 1 blank.Wireless charging in Virtus you have covered adds to the convenience.Bigger better screen in Virtus.Start stop botton in Virtus along with Keyless entry. Its a big plus.Ofcourse Kushaq fares better in ground clearance by 12mm.I personally liked Beige black interior of Virtus vs Grey black of Kushaq.If I have to choose one between these, unless I need a smaller footprint car, i will any day choose Virtus over Kushaq. Go ahead with the Virtus.Here's what BHPian RYP had to say on the matter:It's a good dilemma to have. Myself too is itching for an upgrade though my 2018 MT Swift is absolutely running fine, wfh may be the only reason I've not bit the bullet. My honest suggestion to you would be to seriously consider the AT's. All the major cities infras have totally fallen. It will get even worse before it gets better, maybe in another 20 years. AT's will be a basic necessity. Even if it means stretching your budget a bit, it'll be worth it totally. Having said that, i would go for the Virtus eyes closed. VW service too is marginally better than Skoda. Man the Virtus is THE best looking car south of 50L. All Class. Will age absolutely like a fine wine. Kushaq though it looks good lacks that finesse Virtus has. 1.5 though is a hoot to drive, DSG remains a sole liability. 1.0L with TC is the Engine & GB to have - Solid performance and RELIABLE. Hope this helps.Check out BHPian comments for more insights and information.

Varun Dhawan, Keerthy Suresh Take An Auto Ride Post Pack Up Of Their Next Film, Watch VIRAL Video

Varun Dhawan and Keerthy Suresh will be seen together for a one-of-a-kind action entertainer which will be helmed by Atlee.

'Time for win-win agreement': Biden to join striking auto workers in Michigan

Time for winwin agreement Biden to join striking auto workers in Michigan

Revival of Vikram, Pragyan automatic: ISRO scientist on waking up Chandrayaan-3

ISRO is attempting to revive the Chandrayaan-3's Vikram lander and rover, which have been in sleep mode for almost two weeks. Nilesh M Desai, Director of the Space Applications Centre, stated that the revival of the lander and rover is automatic and dependent on solar power. So far, no signals have been received, but efforts to establish contact are ongoing.

Chennai: Fitness certificates to cost more at automatic testing stations

Two-wheelers, cars, autos and trucks will soon start paying 650 to 1,250 as fitness test fees at 18 new Automatic Testing Stations (ATS), scheduled for launch next year.

4 Ways Auto Sector Jobs Are Changing, According To A Top GM Executive

Striking UAW workers say the transition to electric vehicles risks their jobs. Here are 4 ways these jobs are changing, due to more than EVs, from a top GM executive.

Biden to visit Michigan to support auto strike, a day before Trump

Biden to visit Michigan to support auto strike, a day before Trump U.S. President Joe Biden will travel to Michigan on Tuesday to show support for the United Auto Workers' strike against Detroit automakers, putting him in the center of the dispute that has pitted his labor allies against major manufacturers. Biden, a Democrat, sees himself as a pro-union president and his visit to the state, a day before former President Donald Trump is scheduled to be there, will underscore his support for union workers' right to take action and engage in collective bargaining. Tuesday, Ill go to Michigan to join the picket line and stand in solidarity with the men and women of UAW as they fight for a fair share of the value they helped create, Biden said on Friday in a post on X, the social media platform formerly known as Twitter. Its time for a win-win agreement that keeps American auto manufacturing thriving with well-paid UAW jobs. Biden is running for re-election in 2024 and will likely face Trump, who is the frontrunner for the Republican presidential nomination. A spokesperson for Trump's campaign said Biden's trip to Michigan was a cheap photo op. The only reason Biden is going to Michigan on Tuesday is because President Trump announced he is going on Wednesday, the Trump campaign said in a statement late on Friday. The UAW on Friday invited Biden to visit workers on its picket lines, and said that it would expand its Detroit strike to parts distribution centers across the United States at General Motors and Chrysler parent Stellantis. The company said it has made real progress in talks with Ford Motor. Its very rare for a president to visit strikers, said Jeremi Suri, a historian and presidential scholar at the University of Texas at Austin. He added that even pro-labor Democratic President Jimmy Carter never visited a picket line. This would be a major, major shift for Biden to identify the presidency with striking workers, rather than siding with industry or staying above the fray. UAW WITHHOLDS ENDORSEMENT Numerous unions have already endorsed Biden's re-election, but the UAW has for now withheld its endorsement. Biden said the automakers should go further to ensure record corporate profits mean record contracts for the UAW, echoing sentiments by union leaders. Both the Detroit Three and the UAW have a lot at stake from federal policy decisions. The automakers are counting on Washington for billions in subsidies for electric-vehicle production. They are negotiating with the Biden administration over future emissions rules that require a shift to EVs that the industry believes would be too fast and too expensive. The union, meanwhile, is concerned that the transition to EVs will mean a loss of jobs as those vehicles require fewer parts in production. Trump plans to travel to Detroit to speak at a rally advertised for auto workers as he tries to win back some blue-collar voters who defected to Biden in his victory in 2020. Trump has called for rank-and-file union workers to ignore their leaders. FIGHTING BILLIONAIRE CLASS Trump has not said if he will visit the picket lines. United Auto Workers President Shawn Fain blasted Trump earlier in the week, saying the union was fighting the billionaire class and an economy that enriches people like Donald Trump at the expense of workers. The last U.S. president to show such support for striking workers was probably Theodore Roosevelt, Suri said. In 1902, Roosevelt invited striking coal workers to the White House with government officials and management, concerned that the country faced a coal shortage. Ahead of the precedent-shattering meeting, Roosevelt, like Biden, found himself with little leverage to negotiate. There is literally nothing ... the national government has any power to do, Roosevelt complained to U.S. Senator Henry Cabot Lodge, according to a recounting of the strike on the Department of Labor website. I am at wit's end how to proceed. Workers on the picket lines had mixed feelings over whether Biden should visit. Some said politicians should stay out of the fray, while others said they would welcome the support if the strike continued. Me personally, I wouldnt mind if Biden stepped up and showed some support, said Laura Zielinski, 55, of Toledo, Ohio, on Tuesday, noting Biden's visit to the Stellantis Toledo assembly plant in 2010 while he served as vice president. Support like that would put a spotlight on the talks - kind of give a nudge to the companies. Thomas Morris, 60, who was on a picket line in the Philadelphia suburbs, said he appreciated Biden's support of unions and calls for corporations to pass along record profits to workers and consumers. He would love to see Biden join. It would bring a lot of publicity and help the fight, Morris said.

Biden to visit striking US auto workers Tuesday

President Joe Biden announced Friday he will travel to the US state of Michigan next week to show support for striking auto workers, a visit coming on the eve of a similar trip by his right-wing 2024 election challenger Donald Trump. The only reason Biden is going to Michigan on Tuesday is because President Trump announced he is going on Wednesday, Miller added.

Biden to visit Michigan to support auto strike, front-ending Trump

Biden to visit Michigan to support auto strike, front-ending Trump U.S. President Joe Biden will travel to Michigan on Tuesday to show support for the United Auto Workers' strike against Detroit automakers, putting him in the center of the dispute that has pitted his labor allies against major manufacturers. Biden, a Democrat, sees himself as a pro-union president and his visit to the state, a day before former President Donald Trump is scheduled to be there, will underscore his support for union workers' right to take action and engage in collective bargaining. Tuesday, Ill go to Michigan to join the picket line and stand in solidarity with the men and women of UAW as they fight for a fair share of the value they helped create, Biden said on Friday in a post on X, the social media platform formerly known as Twitter. Its time for a win-win agreement that keeps American auto manufacturing thriving with well-paid UAW jobs. Biden is running for re-election in 2024 and will likely face Trump, who is the frontrunner for the Republican presidential nomination. The UAW on Friday invited Biden to visit workers on its picket lines, and said that it would expand its Detroit strike to parts distribution centers across the United States at General Motors and Chrysler parent Stellantis. The company said it has made real progress in talks with Ford Motor. Its very rare for a president to visit strikers, said Jeremi Suri, a historian and presidential scholar at the University of Texas at Austin. He added that even pro-labor Democratic President Jimmy Carter never visited a picket line. This would be a major, major shift for Biden to identify the presidency with striking workers, rather than siding with industry or staying above the fray. Numerous unions have already endorsed Biden's re-election, but the UAW has for now withheld its endorsement. Biden said the automakers should go further to ensure record corporate profits mean record contracts for the UAW, echoing sentiments by union leaders. Both the Detroit Three and the UAW have a lot at stake from federal policy decisions. The automakers are counting on Washington for billions in subsidies for electric-vehicle production. They are negotiating with the Biden administration over future emissions rules that require a shift to EVs that the industry believes would be too fast and too expensive. The union, meanwhile, is concerned that the transition to EVs will mean a loss of jobs as those vehicles require fewer parts in production. Trump plans to travel to Detroit to speak at a rally advertised for auto workers as he tries to win back some blue-collar voters who defected to Biden in his victory in 2020. Trump has called for rank-and-file union workers to ignore their leaders. Trump has not said if he will visit the picket lines. United Auto Workers President Shawn Fain blasted Trump earlier in the week, saying the union was fighting the billionaire class and an economy that enriches people like Donald Trump at the expense of workers. The last U.S. president to show such support for striking workers was probably Theodore Roosevelt, Suri said. In 1902, Roosevelt invited striking coal workers to the White House with government officials and management, concerned that the country faced a coal shortage. Ahead of the precedent-shattering meeting, Roosevelt, like Biden, found himself with little leverage to negotiate. There is literally nothing ... the national government has any power to do, he complained to U.S. Senator Henry Cabot Lodge of Massachusetts, according to a recounting of the strike on the Department of Labor website. I am at wit's end how to proceed. Workers on the picket lines had mixed feelings over whether Biden should visit. Some said politicians should stay out of the fray, while others said they would welcome the support if the strike continued. Me personally, I wouldnt mind if Biden stepped up and showed some support, said Laura Zielinski, 55, of Toledo, Ohio, on Tuesday, noting Biden's visit to the Stellantis Toledo assembly plant in 2010 while he served as vice president. Support like that would put a spotlight on the talks - kind of give a nudge to the companies.

The UAW strike is growing. What you need to know as more auto workers join the union's walkouts

The United Auto Workers strike is getting bigger

Nutritional Supplement That Can Help You Reverse and Prevent Inflammation Linked to Autoimmune Disease According to New Research

Natures Answer to Inflammation and Autoimmune Disease: The Supplement You Havent Heard About Yet A new study illuminates the significant influence ginger supplements might have in moderating inflammation for individuals diagnosed with autoimmune disorders. Released in todays JCI Insight, the research honed in on gingers effect on neutrophils a white blood cell variant. Specifically, [] The post Nutritional Supplement That Can Help You Reverse and Prevent Inflammation Linked to Autoimmune Disease According to New Research appeared first on Revyuh .

The United Auto Workers expands its strikes against automakers to 38 locations in 20 states

The United Auto Workers expands its strikes against automakers to 38 locations in 20 states

Auto-Voxs CS-2 wireless backup camera sees 40% discount to new all-time low for $72

Update : Amazon has now dropped the price down to $71.99 shipped , after clipping the on-page $30 off coupon and using the promo code 36TZ3I6K for an additional 15% off at checkout . Amazon is offering the Auto-Vox CS-2 Wireless Backup Camera for $77.99 shipped , after clipping the on-page $30 off coupon and using the promo code 36TZ3I6K for an additional 10% off at checkout . Down from $120, with prices typically falling between $84 and $96, this is a combined 35% discount that marks a new all-time low and ultimately saves you $42. Adopting a 2.4G wireless technology that delivers a stable image without interference from Bluetooth, Wi-Fi, or radio signals while within the 33 foot range, this backup camera is designed for mid-size vehicles like vans, SUVs, trucks, and trailers too. Youll receive both the waterproof camera, which has an adjustable 6-glass lens and comes with a 0.1-lumen rated night vision, as well as a 4.3-inch monitor that features a PC1058 sensor for vivid and smooth picture quality. Installation is far easier than its wired counterparts, simply power the monitor with your vehicles cigarette lighter or fuse box, and connect the wireless camera to a continuous power source for constant monitoring or connect to the reverse lamp for backing up. more The post Auto-Voxs CS-2 wireless backup camera sees 40% discount to new all-time low for $72 appeared first on 9to5Toys .

Auto special | The rocky road to autonomous driving

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Auto special | New Launches: Own the road

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Worlds Top Business Automation Coach, Kewal Kishan, Leads the Charge at Business Automation Summit

New Delhi (India), September 22:The highly anticipated Business Automation Summit took place on September 15th and 16th at the Lemon Tree in sector 60, Gurgaon. The event proved to be a pivotal gathering for industry leaders, entrepreneurs, and professionals who delved into the latest advancements in Business Automation & WhatsApp Tools and Systems. Keynote speakers []

BMW iX1 electric SUV teased ahead of its launch

BMW has released a teaser image of its upcoming electric SUV, the iX1. It is expected to be launched in the Indian market in the coming week. The BMW iX1 is an all-electric version of the third-generation X1. Reports suggest that it could be offered in the xDrive30 variant with a price tag of around Rs. 60-65 lakh (ex-showroom). The iX1 uses a dual-motor setup with a combined output of 313 BHP and 494 Nm. It is powered by a 64.7 kWh lithium-ion battery pack that is said to offer a range of 438 km on a single charge. The iX1 comes with an 11 kW charger. It is also capable of fast charging with a capacity of up to 130 kW. On the outside, the iX1 looks similar to the ICE version, except for a few details. The SUV has a blanked-off front fascia in BMW's typical twin-kidney design and redesigned LED headlamps. It also gets new alloy wheels and a reworked rear end.

Auto special | First drive and ride

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Auto special | Insider Insights: Electric motion

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Workers Demand Job Security in the Autonomous, Electrified Future of Transport

Truck drivers, auto workers, and others are fighting for the greener, smarter era of transportation to also include better pay and more protections for humans.

Auto special | The View: Into the spider-verse

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Auto special | News wrap

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UAW Expected to Announce More Auto-Plant Strikes on Friday

General Motors Co., Ford Motor Co. and Stellantis NV are bracing for more walkouts Friday as the carmakers remain far apart from the United Auto Workers on key issues, including job security and pay parity for temporary workers.

Bentley Flying Spur Hybrid launched at Rs. 5.25 crore

Bentley has launched the Flying Spur Hybrid in the Indian market. The luxury limousine is priced at Rs. 5.25 crore (ex-showroom, Delhi). The Flying Spur Hybrid is offered with extensive customization options, including over 60 exterior colours. Customers can personalize their cars by opting for the Mulliner options. Bentley offers 15 colour options just for the interior leather and eight different veneer choices. Customers can even choose the stitching and piping for seat covers, diamond quilted seats, emblems and 3D leather door panels. Under the bonnet is a 2.9-litre V6 petrol engine paired with a hybrid system. It develops 536 BHP and 750 Nm, enabling the limo to accelerate from 0-100 km/h in a claimed 4.3 seconds. The Flying Spur Hybrid is also the most fuel-efficient Bentley, with an estimated range of over 800 km.

Stock market update: Nifty Auto index advances 0.21%

The Nifty Auto index closed 0.21 per cent up at 16234.35.

25 cars and 1 motorcycle come together for a fantastic monsoon meet

BHPian Samba recently shared this with other enthusiasts.Fantastic monsoon meet with 25 cars and 1 bikeThe Kolkata meetup was scheduled for 7 in the morning. The meeting point was at the Dankuni toll. From there the plan was to drive together to Azadhind Dhaba, have breakfast and return to Kolkata by lunch. The total round trip comes around 100-150 km depending on where one stays in Kolkata. But a few days before the meet, Bhpian Abhi1512 told me, Bhpians from Assam were coming to Kolkata, but on the same date as our Kolkata Team-Bhp meet they were going for a trip to Dalma, in Jharkhand. Plus Azadhind Dhaba, Gopalpur won't fall on their route either. But they were kind enough to make a detour & come to Dankuni by 6-30 am and meet me before proceeding to Dalma. All of them led by Bhpian Abhi1512 came to Dankuni by 6-45 am. I and Bhpian Mountain_Deep spent a nice half an hour chatting with them. So we had a mini Assam-Bengal meet before the Kolkata Team-Bhp meet. Assam Bhpians- Bhpian- ChiranjitP, Bhpian DevOnWheels, Bhpian Long_Tourer, Bhpian Phukan_tridiv, Bhpian yogi..reeturaj with Bhpian Abhi1512 & Bhpian Mountain_deep. Post this meet, I proceeded to Dankuni toll by 7-20 am. From there the convoy drive to Azadhind was fast & enjoyable. Everyone drove fast, yet in a safe way.The Kolkata gangBhpian- Shomshree, Samba, AJ-got-BHP, apollo_1999 ,PapaBravo, tacho9000 ,BODHI25, OpenRoads, DogNDamsel12 , Soumik, Mountain_Deep, Burnout, The Barnstomer, SkyWraith,Jackofsome, topse, GhostRider28, Breathe2drive, SVK Rider, SouraC , gmhossain, SchrdingersCar, Arindam_Xeta, Chitranshu, The Stranger, ShuvC (The names are not in order). Bhpian SouraC on the roll. Bhpian Mountain_Deep on the roll. Bhpian SVKRider on the roll. Bhpian Jackofsome on the roll. Bhpian PapaBravo on the roll. Bhpian Soumik on the roll. Bhpian Shomshree on the roll. Bhpian GhostRider28 on the roll. Bhpian BODHI25 on the roll. Bhpian Topse on the roll. Bhpian Breathe2drive on the roll. Bhpian SchrdingersCar on the roll followed by Bhpian SkyWraith's white Swift. Bhpian Tacho9000 on the roll. The lineups Bhpian Mountain_Deep's steed. Belongs to Bhpian ShuvC Bhpian Chitranshu's superbly maintained Renault Pulse along with, SchrdingersCar' Nexon, PapaBravo's X1 and The Barnstomer's brand new Xuv300 turbo petrol sports. My Duster along with Bhpian DogNDamsel12's Polo Bhpian Aj-got-Bhp's latest acquisition! The Neo looks gorgeous! Bhpian apollo_1999 on his Yamaha! Check out BHPian comments for more insights and information.

A Classic 350 owner buys the Triumph Speed 400: His honest observations

BHPian himanshu809 recently shared this with other enthusiasts. Delivery experience Hey guys. As some people might have read on this thread. I had paid for the bike on 6th September 2023 and asked for delivery on/before 16th September 2023. As usual the sales associate said I'll get it on 16th September, I insisted because it is my birthday. But they could only deliver it today i.e. 17th. Eh, shit happens. I'm a laidback person so I guess it's not a big deal. The people at existing Triumph dealerships are overloaded and understaffed. Though still there's a lot of room for improvement. At this time they are failing at basic tasks i.e. give a smooth sales experience. They delayed my delivery. Made a spelling error on the insurance papers. And made us wait a lot for PDI before invoicing. In fact, they told us after PDI that it has already been invoiced for my wife's name as she is the owner. Not just on paper, she has been riding since before we got married and she has ridden much bigger and more powerful bikes, such as Harley Superglide, Harley Fatboy, RE Interceptor 650. And on track too! (Though I beat her at karting!) Boy am I a lucky duck for having a motoring enthusiast for a wife. We already have a RE Classic 350 (the previous generation), not the current one with the better engine. We don't like it for it's unreliable-give-attention-to-me-everyday personality but it is what it is, right? You can't blame it for what it is. A mechanically simple technologically redundant long stroke torquey motorcycle. It's not sporty, my point is. So anyway, we really wanted only the Caspian Blue as we both found it unique ( 90%+ Triumph Deliveries are red, they say) Going by the numbers I saw there it's definitely more than 80% and the black one had no personality. So we waited for the Caspian Blue and we don't regret that for a minute. Score - 6/10 The bike: Enough has been said here by much smarter people but I'll just add my two cents on it keeping it short and sweet. Pros:High revving motor, maybe not as high as KTM but at a certain sweet spot which I like. At my current riding skills (or lack thereof) it's just at the edge of crazy I feel comfortable with. It picks up speed more than reasonably quick and is almost always eager to push. Best thing is the tractability. You can push in almost any gear from speeds as low as 20-30 kmph and not stall. Lugs only at the extreme end, say you want to pull up from 20 kmph in sixth, it will do it but after a little lugging, but it will do it in 4th and even 5th.Butter smooth crisp gear shifts. This is my biggest pet peeve in a motorcycle. I hate notchy gearboxes with unpredictable shifts and false neutrals. This is one the best gearboxes I've ever ridden. Just doesn't fail you. I hope it stays that wayImmediate throttle response. This bike might not be the fastest but it is fast enough to get you in trouble. Plus the ride by wire translates in an immediate surge. So you got to respect it and don't give it to newbies or inexperienced hotheads. If they crash, you are responsible. The brakes are good, initial bite is a bit delayed in front brakes. But it's enough to stop you when you expect it.Looks are understated, yet detailed, simple yet not boring. Paint quality is good (will get Graphene coating soon). Build quality is solid. And the bike feels planted and agile thanks to sizeable suspension setup on both ends and shorter wheelbase. It eats up everything on the road.Exhaust note is not that loud but it's bass-ey and lends a noticeable street presence. It gets better when you revv it. And people complaining about it should realise it's a single cylinder. You can't beat physics.Engine heat is there but it's bearable and fan keeps on getting active whenever needed. Which I don't know why people get so concerned about. It's the job. To keep it cool. It's a one cylinder 400cc engine, yes it will heat up. Physics is a heartless monster.Headlight throw is good in high beam, white and wide, gives you presence and confidence to command the road at dark. And it looks beautiful too which is just an added bonus.Cons:Not a huge motorcycle. Smaller wheelbase and relatively simpler (classy) neo-retro design isn't in your face and the bike doesn't scream for attention. I like it that way but some people might won't.RPM needs to be on the needle and speed on the digital screen. But it's not a bother at the end of the day. I drive/ride based on feel/safety/Vehicles ahead of me and comfort and only refer to the speedometer on a need to know basis. Best safety is eyes on the road.Score - 9/10 Happiness score - 10/10 After the ride home. At cousin's place. It was on the way and it was good to share the happy news. Waifu at the showroom ready to go. At home getting pooja done. Read BHPian comments for more insights and information.

2023 Hyundai i20 N-Line facelift launched at Rs. 10 lakh

Hyundai has launched the i20 N-Line facelift. The hatchback is available in two variants: N6 and N8, with prices starting at Rs. 9.99 lakh (ex-showroom). The sporty N-Line version of the i20 has been given a slight makeover for the 2023 model year. The cosmetic changes made to the exterior are similar to that of the standard i20. The car gets a redesigned front grille with sharper-looking LED headlamps on either side, new front and rear bumpers and tail lights with a dark chrome garnish in the centre. The N-Line gets red accents all around, twin exhausts, a spoiler and new design 16-inch alloy wheels. The interior of the updated i20 N-Line looks similar to the standard model. There are N-Line badges on the seat and steering wheel, aluminium pedals and red ambient lighting. The dashboard houses a 10.25-inch touchscreen infotainment system that offers Android Auto and Apple Carplay connectivity. Other features include a digital instrument cluster, automatic climate control, a wireless charger, a 7-speaker Bose audio system, cruise control, and a sunroof. The i20 N-Line is powered by a 1.0-litre turbo-petrol engine that makes 118 BHP and 172 Nm. The engine is mated with either a 6-speed manual or a 7-speed dual-clutch automatic gearbox.2023 Hyundai i20 N-Line ex-showroom prices:N6 MT - Rs. 9,99,490N6 DCT - Rs. 11,09,900N8 MT - Rs. 11,21,900N8 DCT - Rs. 12,31,900

Damaged my new car's paint whilst removing the sindoor: Now what?

BHPian vick2002 recently shared this with other enthusiasts. I bought my first new car in Australia and my parents are visiting who decided to apply Sindoor (Kumkum) while doing the puja. That left a yellow stain which I tried to remove by using a toothpaste and toothbrush. Now I know that wasn't a smart idea but I guess I'm just too dumb to have understood that. Now the Kumkum mark is gone but there's a dull smudge like thing around the spot. This is a brand new white corolla cross and I'm looking for advice on what should I do. Will this be fixed by getting the car polished and waxed? It costs around 350-400 AUD here. Will simply waxing be enough? Or have I caused more severe damage to my first and brand new car's paint with my sheer foolishness!! Please have a look at the pictures and advise Here's what BHPian Venky03 had to say on the matter:Toothpaste and toothbrush together act like a very coarse compound, and the damage does not appear to be very severe. You can use Meguiar's Ultimate Compound and Meguiar's Ultimate Polish (optional) to fix it. First, buff the smudge with the compound until it disappears. Then, apply the polish for finishing and seal the newly exposed clear coat layer with your preferred wax or sealant. Looks like a simple touch-up job for a detailer but definitely not worth 350-400 AUD.Here's what BHPian flipflop had to say on the matter:You can get a new car waxed and polished - no harm at all! But I'd suggest you get it done in a few months, that way, the car will be back to looking new and you'll also get rid of small scratches you may pick up along the way. If the kumkum is not really visible, let it be for now and polish in a few months! Who knows, the kumkum may bring luck your way and keep the evil eyes away!Here's what BHPian Rehaan had to say on the matter:Choose your poison: Here's what BHPian sagarpadaki had to say on the matter:I suggest you use Meguiars ultimate polish and some elbow grease with a microfiber had pad or Meguiar's foam applicator. That should be sufficient to bring back the luster in that area of the paint.Read BHPian comments for more insights and information.

UAW strike against major US automakers continues, negotiations on

Chicago, Sep 22 (IANS) Negotiations on a new contract continued between the United Auto Workers (UAW) and the Big Three US automakers as the UAWs [...]

Detroit Automakers Hold Late Night Negotiations With UAW To Avoid Wider Strike

The UAW has warned more of its 146,000 members could join the strike if progress on a fair deal isnt made by noon on Friday.

Tata Harrier ownership experience after 3 years and 40,000 km

BHPian greyhound82 recently shared this with other enthusiasts.3-Year Ownership Update: 39,700 kmCompleted 3 years of ownership today of my Tata Harrier XZA+ with Delhi-Auli-Delhi. Harrier is not our daily drive, as I work from home and my wife has an official car. This is mostly our touring vehicle with go-anywhere capability (yeah, I would have opted for AWD but had very few options in 2020). In these 3 years, we have taken the following major road trips I am also mentioning the corresponding mileage figures as per MID.Bhopal-Trivandrum-Bhopal : 16.8km/lBhopal-Delhi-Bhopal : 17km/lBhopal-Amarkantak-Bhopal : 16.2 km/lBhopal-Khujaraho-Bhopal : 17.5km/lDelhi-Trivandrum-Delhi : 15.5 km/lDelhi-Narkhanda-Bagha Saran-Delhi Narkhanda-Bagha Saran is one of the narrowest and most dangerous roads I drove with Harrier. If I had known it early, I might have taken a smaller car for that route. 14.5 km/lDelhi-Sitlakhet-Delhi : 14.2 km/lDelhi-Auli-Delhi : 13.8 km/lOwnership Experience:Rugged, Rattle Free and Niggle Free: Taken this car through places where there are no roads. We love exploring offbeat destinations and avoiding tourist attractions. I am not a driver who abuses the car, but I am not the one who will slow down on every bump and pothole.Ride Quality : Slightly stiff at low speeds but rides flat above 40 km/hr.Spacious Cabin : Acres of real estate and can carry 5 people in a comfortable manner.Safety : Has six airbags and a couple of ESP modes. Yes, this is not crash-tested, and filter intrusion into the driver's knee region is a major safety risk. But I hope the platform is stable, which will secure a 4-star GNCAP.Steering : Tight at low speeds and a bit vague or oversensitive at high speeds. After driving a continuous 16-hour journey from Auli to Delhi, my back aches a lot due to manoeuvring those endless, winding roads.Interior Quality: I have open parking (always I opted for societies with closed parking, but this time the broker cheated us and we ended up with open parking), but the interiors are still holding up nicely after 3 summers. So far, the colour is intact, and there is no chipping of materials either. Once every three months, I use Maguer polish on Dash and other plastics.AC : Chilling AC. Blower noise at maximum is a bit high but manageable.Exterior : Paint quality is not comparable to VW, Mahindra, and Hyundai/Kia. There is rusting in the engine bay. It seems the paint is chipping easily when compared to my old cars (Figo and Punto). A lot has been written about the misalignment and consistency of panel gaps.Drive modes : I use Sports modes only for overtaking in single carriageways, and City drive mode is the default and I have never used Eco.Ergonomics : Really bad. Knees touching the dashboard, Lack of useable armrests. Seats are comfortable, and lumbar support is an advantage.NVH : Average. Noisy engine, slight vibrations at low revsService ChargesService at every 7.5km/6-months, Actually checkup at 7.5k/6 months and main service every 15k/1 yearFirst Free Service : 3394km - INR 1446/- , 30/Sep/2020Second Free Service : 7384km - INR 639/-, 02/Nov/2020Third Free Service : 14790km - INR 11800/- , 29/Jun/2021Fourth Service : 21428km - INR 4301 , 30/Oct/2021Fifth Service : 27178 km- 14108/-, 04/Feb/2022Sixth Service: 30800km - 18741/- , 14/Jul/2022 (changed the brake pads and disks)Seventh Service : 34634km - 19150/-, - 17/Feb/2023Eighth Service :35917km - 2475/-, 11/Aug/2023ConclusionOther than the size (for a family of 2 this big a car is an overkill . The space it took on the road and the fuel it burns for those vacant spaces) am happy with the car. An average car for touring safely with a service network in most towns. I like the Harrier but do not love it. Check out BHPian comments for more insights and information.

My Triumph Speed 400: Real world riding impressions post purchase

BHPian davelok recently shared this with other enthusiasts. I took the bike to the Thol Bird Sanctuary outside Ahmedabad this morning. It's about 24km from home and took me about 45 minutes to reach it, primarily because of the numerous speed bumps on the Thol - Shilaj road, which restrict speed effectively. I didn't carry a camera with me, because this is the lean season for birding there, and I would have paid Rs. 250 unnecessarily for camera fees. I just took a pair of binoculars, some water with electrolytes, and biscuits. It was a peaceful visit - there was no one around, which is why we go out in the first place, isn't it? The travel to Thol was uneventful. I paced the motorcycle out peacefully. The road inside Thol is unpaved and broken, which makes one feel the need for a proper adventure bike, even though the front suspension on the Speed 400 is plush. The Speed bumps and the bumpy road told me that I need to learn standing up while riding the bike. After enjoying solitude for a while, I decided to go for a ride to a place called Kanzari nearby. This place used to have some flocks of Blackbucks in the open fields, but a huge number of luxury farmhouse developments have come up on that very land and all around, driving the deer away (and perhaps to their dying out eventually). As I rode on, I started to enjoy the ride more and more, feeling the bike to be more of an extension of myself rather than the strange steed that I felt I was riding when I took it to work yesterday for the first time. I guess this happens when one starts to get a feel of the machine,its handling dynamics, engine characteristics, etc. At times, I found myself pushing backwards on the seat rather than the forward seating position I prefer in the city. All those fantasies from thirty odd years ago of riding a Hero Honda CD100 like a sporty machine have started to come to life. The ride through lush green farms and water bodies was thoroughly enjoyable as I went beyond Kanzari to explore side roads into rural areas. Speed bumps were everywhere and I started to lift my bum off the seat to avoid the, well, bumps when coming off them. I feel a little bit that rider foot pegs need to be longer to be able to stand up safely and comfortably. While there was nothing really wrong with the bike, I did find it stalling twice in second gear, once with the clutch fully in and once when the engine wasn't even knocking. Plus at lower rpm in third or fourth year, I did feel the engine sputter a bit, which makes me suspect that there might be a fuelling issue - not that it is always present. The bike pulls very cleanly and smoothly in first gear from standstill with very little throttle input. I will watch this carefully and if it's real, I will get it addressed during the first service. I was generally riding around at 50-60kmph with frequent gear changes. Took the bike to near 100kmph only once or twice. Every time I cross 60kmph, wind starts to roar like a jet engine inside my helmet - possibly because I had removed the cheek pads a long time ago, and now need to find and fix them again. Yesterday during my return commute from work, I checked the actual speed of the bike with what its speedometer reports. I used an app called GPS Speedometer on my phone (mounted on the handlebar). It seems that the speedo is off by about 10% at 60kmph, so when the needle is indicating 70, the bike's actually doing 65. Good from a safety perspective, but my route has speed control of 70kmph, so I need to be very sure of the margin of error. Anyways I am not a wild rider, but this bike is growing on me and asking me to twist the throttle. By the way, Triumph India is monitoring this thread and considers what you post here as feedback, asking their service advisors to address it. Good going. After nearly an hour of riding around, I decided to return home. It was getting closer to lunchtime and I was feeling hot from the sun. Engine heat was quite bearable though. As time wore on, I found myself trying to sit straighter up taking the stress off my back and palms. The heel of the palms and the right thumb joint started to get sore, leading me to massage them at traffic stops. Perhaps they need some conditioning as I have been a car-only traveller for a long time now. Despite this slight discomfort, it was a thoroughly enjoyable ride, which would not have been possible in my car. As the weather cools down, migrant birds start arriving, and Triumph gives us some accessories to help carry gear around, I see myself going on more and more of them on the bike. I'm quite happy that I bought it. Check out BHPian comments for more insights and information.

Royal Enfield Shotgun 650 technical details leaked

The Royal Enfield Interceptor, Continental GT and Super Meteor currently make up the brand's 650cc range. The bike maker is now gearing up to add a fourth model to the line-up. The Royal Enfield Shotgun 650 is a new roadster based on the same platform as the Super Meteor. As per the type approval certificate, the Shotgun 650 measures 2,170 mm in length and has a wheelbase of 1,465 mm. The bike is 70 mm narrower, and the overall height is 50 mm shorter than the Super Meteor. The Shotgun will be powered by a 648cc, parallel-twin engine producing 46.3 BHP @ 7,250 rpm. Peak torque is expected to be around 52 Nm, and the engine will be mated with a 6-speed gearbox. In terms of design, the Shotgun 650 is likely to feature a circular LED headlamp, a teardrop-shaped fuel tank and mid-mounted footpegs offering a sporty riding position. The bike will be equipped with an upside-down front fork, dual rear shock absorbers and dual exhausts.

4 auto stocks earned upgrades in last 1 month. Check revised target prices

For more such web stories click on the ET

Upgraded from a Tata Bolt to the Nissan Magnite CVT: 12 pros & 6 cons

BHPian SN13 recently shared this with other enthusiasts. I got my hands on the New Nissan Magnite on 09/08/2023 and here's the opinion that I have formed in 30 days of driving it.Model - Magnite XV turbo MTColour - vivid blue and storm whiteLocation - KolkataAverage daily drive - 20 kms. (Mostly congested)My views are mostly based on my previous driving experience of driving Tatas and Mahindras for the last 15 years (and Marutis and Hyundais prior to that). Buying Experience: I 'd been driving a Tata Bolt XM revotron since 2015 and was considering a change and an upgrade for sometime. Come July 2023 and I made up my mind to finally execute the plan. Being a Tata loyalist my first choice was the Nexon (petrol) followed by the Nissan Magnite and the Maruti fronx. Tata Nexon - The tata showroom was my first visit and I was almost 50% inclined towards the Nexon. My budget allowed me the XM (S) version and I was kind of okay with compromising on the frills. However there were two dissuading factors for not proceeding with the Nexon. One, a very close friend already had the new Nexon (xz plus, BS6 ) and was utterly dissapointed with a mileage of 8.5 km/l even after owning it for over a year with 10k on the odo (I can vouch for the poor mileage of petrol Tata Cars having had two petrol Tata cars previously). Second, the exchange deal on my existing Tata Bolt was not worth a second negotiation, thus, ending my dream of owning the Nexon. Maruti Fronx - This was the third option on my list. And to be honest I am no fan of MSIL. Saying so, I must say that the Fronx is pretty. It's quite the looker and I was seriously considering the Fronx at this point. However my pocket was only deep enough to get hold of the Delta Plus 1.2 L model. It drove well, nice interiors, fairly well loaded with features however, what irks me is that MSIL cuts corners by not adding bare essentials like a rear parking camera or rear wiper on a car that has an ex showroom tag of 9 lakhs. However, I was willing to overlook these minor gripes. The only reason that prevented me from buying the Fronx after 2 test drives was the pick up of the car. May I dare say it was sluggish. Nissan Magnite - The second option on my list. 3 showroom visits, 2 test drives later the Magnite seemed the perfect fit for my requirements. My family (especially, mum) loved the looks of the car. It was a turbo charged petrol engine (which I was used to in the Tata Bolt), had adequate frills, sun/moon roof was never a criteria. Yes, I have a weakness for the turbo charged petrol motor. The showroom experience was okish. They were a little pushy, unwilling to negotiate at first. However, owing to a connection at Nissan India, I was able to pull a few strings and garner a fair discount on the car and also, the underbody anti rust rubber coating. After completing the loan formalities (seamlessly), I was finally called for delivery on 09/08/2023. The delivery experience was a 7.5 out of 10. I had sold my Tata bolt via OLX (advert not OLX auto) in the meanwhile. The Pros:IMO the car looks quite nice to be honest.Adequate gadgets and frills.Peppy engine (has enough grunt when needed).Personally I love the diamond cut alloy wheels on the magnite.The android auto and apple car play works seamlessly.The sound of the engine is pleasing to the ears.The 6 speaker sound system is quite good (although the harman kardon on my bolt was better).The ground clearance in commendable, have recently waded through the water logged streets of Elgin Road effortlessly (the ones who stay in South Kolkata know what I mean)Quite spacious.Service centers seem quite responsive for now.Ac is goodComfortable seatsThe Cons:Headlamps - The halogen headlamps are not upto the mark. Need to learn from the Tatas and Mahindras.Suspension - Hard suspension. You can feel the thud over large potholes which are aplenty in Kolkata. Again Tatas and Mahindras are brilliant when it comes to suspension for the Indian terrains.I am not a big fan of steel sheet fuel lids (they start rusing eventually)Clutch has a pretty deep play.Long gear throws.Ac or blower vents missing for the rear passengers.Now most importantly, the mileage; To be honest I have only been following the MID on my car. And After having driven about 900 odd kms I am getting a mileage of 9.2km/l (my regular drive is generally on a very congested stretch), however I firmly believe this will get better post the first couple of service. Unfortunately, I haven't had the opportunity to take it out on a proper long drive on the highway to ascertain its highway mileage or engine capabilities. I do intend to do so soon. Read BHPian comment for more insights and information.

TVS Apache RTE for Electric One-Make Championship unveiled

TVS has announced an electric one-make championship. The first race is scheduled for September 29, 2023. The company has also unveiled its all-new TVS Apache RTE electric race bike, which will compete in this series. The TVS Apache RTE electric race bike features a carbon fibre fairing and rides on lightweight carbon wheels wrapped in Pirelli Super Corsa tyres. The battery case is also made from carbon fibre and is a stressed member of the chassis. The bike rides on Ohlins suspension and is equipped with Brembo brakes. The Apache RTE race bike is powered by a mid-mounted liquid-cooled electric motor, which drives the rear wheel via a chain drive. While performance figures haven't been revealed, TVS claims that the bike uses high-power cells with advanced chemistry and a custom Battery Management System with race-specific algorithms. Eight riders will compete in the electric one-make series. The inaugural race will be held at the fourth round of the Indian National Motorcycle Road Racing Championship.

How I got a fresh perspective of my Continental GT 535 after 30,000 km

BHPian neil.jericho recently shared this with other enthusiasts. Having ridden the Royal Enfield Continental GT 535 for almost 30,000 kilometres in every possible terrain conditions, one would think that after picking it up from Motonerdz in Trivandrum, getting reacquainted with the motorcycle would have been the easiest thing in the world. Well, not quite. Over the last few years, the Continental GT 535 has seen less running than before because the garage grew to add a Triumph Street Triple 675 and a Suzuki Gixxer SF 250. Between the new additions, I've added another 28,000 - 29,000 kilometres. While all 3 motorcycles are as completely different from each other as you can imagine, the time away from the Continental GT 535 gave me the opportunity to reexamine it with a fresh perspective, as I rode back to Cochin.Firstly, I topped up at an IOCL petrol bunk in Trivandrum and I couldn't help but smile at the same old fuelling routine. The way that the bike's petrol tank is designed causes the petrol dispenser to cut off when the tank is only around 70% full. On other motorcycles, the cutoff happens when the motorcycle's tank is around 85 to 90% full. Since this isn't a motorcycle that sold in droves, fuel attendants always hesitantly fill up the next few litres after the first cut-off. None of them want a tank overflow and spillage situation, for obvious reasons. I do find that most of them are amused by how much additional fuel the tank gulps in. It always is an interesting conversation starter at petrol pumps everywhere.That torque hit is something else! Though the engine only produces a modest 29.1 HP, the ace up its sleeve is the 44 NM of torque at a very low 4,000 RPM. This is an engine which is built for riding across Kerala's narrow, winding and often crowded highways. The engine provides a fabulous wave of torque that lets you pull off quick overtakes without having to think twice. Touring the Suzuki Gixxer SF 250 with its tepid output figures (26.5 PS and 22.2 NM) and linear power delivery changed my riding style. Getting back on the Continental GT 535 reignited that spark which the Suzuki was missing.Handling-wise, the Suzuki Gixxer SF 250 on its Apollo Alpha H1 tires and the Triumph Street Triple 675 have the Continental GT beat. The Suzuki and the Triumph boast composure in the chassis dynamics and the ability to tip in from side to side, which the Continental GT 535 does not have. Maybe it's the higher centre of gravity with the 18-inch wheels. Maybe it's the lack of premium tires (until very recently) in this size. Or it very well could be the chassis design, for all I know. This doesn't imply that the Continental GT 535 is unsettled in the corners or that it is lacking / unsafe. Far from it. There just is more muscling involved while riding the bike, which contrary to most people's expectations, makes it fun to ride.The sharpness of the braking, again, couldn't match the Gixxer SF 250 which was running on better brake fluid and Versah brake pads. You feel like you are carrying a whole lot of momentum while riding the Continental GT 535. While better Vresdestein Centauro tires will help in reducing the braking distance, I missed that extra sharpness that premium aftermarket brake pads offered. Oh, and I missed ABS!The seating comfort with this reshaped seat is a real game changer. The OEM seat's padding used to throw in the towel less than halfway through a full day's riding. That meant a sore bottom, misery and silent curses for everyone in Royal Enfield who approved the production of the seat without proper testing. Now, with this extra layer of padding, it feels like my bottom is insulated from the vibrations.I could go on (and on and on...) but there are a lot more updates to get to. Overall, it is safe to say that the Continental GT 535 has its strong points and there are some noticeable areas of improvement. Out of the box, it was a good Royal Enfield motorcycle for its time, With an assortment of upgrades, it can become a much more involving and simply put, better motorcycle. It is a shame that not too many Continental GT 535 owners tinker around with their motorcycles. Back in Cochin, the motorcycle was put to commuting duties and I was reminded of just how much attention it grabs everywhere. While collecting the bike from Motonerdz, they did mention that the battery light warning indicator was frequently coming on. Despite that, the bike was starting without any issues and never necessitated a kick start. That, and the emission test was pending. I got it done at the usual centre where I get all my vehicles tested. Next up, it was time to pack my bags and move back to Bangalore. But not without a major hiccup on the way. Check out BHPian comments for more insights and information.

Stock market update: Nifty Auto index advances 0.31% in an upbeat market

The Nifty Auto index was trading 0.31 per cent up at 16250.85.

DIY horn upgrade: Installing Hella trumpets on my dad's Innova Hycross

BHPian Cresterk recently shared this with other enthusiasts.DIY horn upgradeBought some shiny Hella Chrome Trumpets from Amazon for Rs 1600. It often goes on sale for less but my dad's b'day was coming up and I wanted to gift these to him. Open the hood and take off the plastic cover right in front of the engine bay. Just carefully pop off the plastic rivets and it will come right off. The twin stock horns by Roots are located right underneath. Unscrew the holder and the whole thing comes off pretty easy. The connections for both the horns are the same. So this was just plug and play instead of having to splice wires and install additional relays etc. These Hella horns are 12V but I can't find a mention of the Amperes anywhere on the packaging. Their website claims it's 5A but I'm guessing it's more. The Hycross manual mentions the stock horn fuses to be of 12v 15A so that's enough leeway hopefully. Both the stock horns were removed. The new Hellas is in place. We almost never blow the horn and only use it in case of emergencies to avoid accidents. However, the meek stock horns of the Hycross do not convey the size of the vehicle approaching and when you add the silent nature of the hybrid engine, people often assume it's a 2-wheeler. This leads to them cutting in front of intersections, joining main roads etc. without looking, even pedestrians walking along leaving only enough space for a scooter or small car to go by and me having to brake hard and lay on the stock horns until they look back and realise their error. Glad to report that these new horns do the job well and a quick tap is enough to let people know that it's a larger vehicle and they are appropriately cautious. The horns also sound deeper and way more premium than the stock horns. Check out BHPian comments for more insights and information.

1 month with our new Hyundai i20 N8 DCT and we are loving it

BHPian rAijin_ recently shared this with other enthusiasts.IntroductionWe recently brought home a Hyundai i20 N8 DCT and we are loving it. My brother's Maruti Swift VDI (Diesel) 2015 model was nearing its 9th anniversary (due in Dec 2023) and we were worried due to the 10-year rule on Diesel vehicles in Delhi NCR. So, we started our hunt for the new car.Requirements:Budget - Around 10 Lac - 11 Lac.Should be an Automatic.Hatchback with better mileage.Good ground clearance.Should be comfortable for 4 (occasionally 5) people.This car would be mainly driven by my brother who is a bachelor and doesn't need a bigger car at this point.Options considered:Maruti FronxWe loved the exterior look of Fronx and had almost finalised it. The crossover looks from the front and the coupe-like rear had us sold. It is arguably the best-looking Maruti and its 1.2l NA Delta plus fell right into our budget. We were so sure about it that we almost booked it without any test drive. But, then we wanted to test the AMT gearbox as we've driven CVT and DCT but not AMT. So we requested a test drive of the Delta Plus variant which was happily provided. They had Fronx Delta plus AMT readily available for a test drive. As soon as we sat inside the Fronx Delta Plus variant, everything changed. The interior does not do justice to the rather attractive styled exterior. The dashboard plastic quality felt inferior even to our 8-year-old Swift. The dark brown and black dual-tone interior did not appeal to us at all. In fact Baleno's Black and Blue felt a lot better compared to it. Then we took a test drive, and we realised why everyone hates AMT. The gear shift was clearly felt and the lag was frustrating. Me and my brother looked at each other and we knew Fronx was cancelled. Thus began the search for the next car.Maruti BalenoWe looked at the Baleno at the same Nexa dealership. Its interior quality felt similar to Fronx except for the black and blue theme which actually felt a lot better. Rejected it due to AMT.Other compact SUVsAll compact SUVs were way above our budget. The base Automatic variant is around 14L - 15L on road in Gurugram. We didn't look at Nissan Magnite and Renault Kiger due to the low footprint of these brands.Hyundai i20We were not sure which car to try next. Just when we were driving back home, we saw a dark blue Hyundai i20 with red accents and twin exhausts crossing us. We really liked it. Quick Google results showed us the Hyundai i20 N line with starry nightshade. So, the very next day, we called Hyundai showrooms for a test drive of the i20 N line. Surprisingly, only Himgiri Hyundai had the i20 N line available for test drive. So, the next day, we left for the test drive. We wanted to drive both the iMT and DCT. We were really curious about the iMT gear (A manual gear without a clutch!).Dealer visit, test drive and booking experienceThe salesperson at Himgiri Hyundai was very courteous and resolved our queries regarding the iMT. They had good knowledge about the working of the iMT gearbox. However, they didn't have any iMT i20 N line for a test drive. In their defence, they said that the sales of i20 iMT are very low and even Hyundai recommends moving to DCT rather than iMT. I'm not sure if that's a sales tactic to sell DCT ( higher priced ) or some issues with iMT that Hyundai is trying to mask. But iMT is removed even from the normal i20 line up. We still insisted on an iMT driving experience and they arranged for an iMT Venue N line. We first took a test drive of iMT Venue N line. As soon as we got in, I immediately fell in love with the gear knob of iMT. iMT felt like a good combination of a manual gearbox without a clutch. I'm not sure why Hyundai is reluctant to sell it. After Hyundai Venue iMT, we took a test drive of i20 N8 DCT. My brother loved the DCT performance. But we still insisted on i20 N8 iMT due to ~1L lower cost ( we were already 1.5L above our budget ). The salesperson promised us that the car would be available in around a month and we were happy to book it. Now, something interesting happened. We thought of getting our old Swift Diesel valued by the Hyundai exchange program and they evaluated it to be 3.3L + 10k exchange bonus. We were happy with the evaluation and wanted to close this deal. But we also didn't want to be without a car for almost a month. So, we discussed with the salesperson and he mentioned that there is an i20 N8 DCT available 3 days later. The person it was allocated to has some finance issues and hence his delivery may get delayed. There was also a 30k discount on the N8 DCT ( but no discount on the iMT variant ). So, the N8 DCT would cost us around 70k more. After a lot of discussion, we decided to take the plunge and booked i20 N8 DCT. We also got the value of Swift marginally increased to 3.5L ( including 10k exchange bonus ).Delivery experienceThe car was available in just 2 days. We did a quick PDI on the spot and everything seemed right except for the driver door that didn't close properly. But I remembered from the forum that this was a problem with most i20s, so we ignored it. As usual, the complete process took 4-5 hours. We received an extra 5k discount. The insurance quote was matched. We received carpets, mud flaps as complimentary accessories and bought rain visors and cushions separately. We took the 5-year warranty and 5-year SOT.The i20 N line experienceIt's been almost a month and we are really loving it. The i20 N line is the most practical, sporty and feature-packed hatchback that you can get today. Yes, it is expensive. In fact the most expensive hatchback. But even the Maruti Swift ZXI AMT costs 10.5L in Gurugram! At approx 3 lac extra, we get rear disk brakes, better-tuned suspension, that twin exhaust, a ton of features, a sunroof, a lot better interior, 120 bhp power and 172 NM torque, better suspension and steering setting and the interior space of a Honda City ( almost ). Frankly, we believe it actually gives a lot of value for the money. The DCT is rather reluctant below 30kmph - 40kmph. But above that speed, if you want a rush, just press the pedal and enjoy that grin.Few picturesThe front and the rear view: With the Honda City: Check out BHPian comments for more insights and information.

Minor raped by two auto-rickshaw drivers in Delhi

New Delhi, Sep 22 (IANS)A 15-year-old girl was allegedly sexually assaulted by two brothers in northeast Delhi, an official said on Friday. According to police, [...]

Delhi government invites bid for 3000 electric scooters and cycles

Transport Minister of Delhi Kailash Gahlot said: The Delhi government, under the visionary leadership of Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal, has embarked on an innovative journey to introduce a Public e-Scooter Sharing (PeSS) System and Public e-Cycle Sharing System (PeCS) in the Dwarka sub-city.

Weekly Tactical Pick: This auto company has a long way to go

Multiple growth levers in place and the stock is trading at a discount to fair value

Weekly Tactical Pick: This automaker has a long way to go

Multiple growth levers in place and the stock is trading at a discount to fair value

Faced an unexpected issue on my XUV700: Impressive response by Mahindra

BHPian bill1182 recently shared this with other enthusiasts. In the latest chapter of my XUV 700 ownership journey, I embarked on a trip from Mumbai to Ahmedabad. Little did I know that this journey would unfold into an experience unlike any I've encountered in my years of driving. As I cruised past Palghar, a sudden and unexpected alert on the MID caught my attention - the ominous red overheating icon began flashing. This incident came as a surprise, especially since the car had recently visited the service centre for a hose pipe gasket change recall. Suspicion quickly settled on the gasket, and I promptly pulled over to investigate. Miraculously, the warning vanished as I stopped, and the temperature gauge returned to normal levels. Upon opening the hood, my eyes were drawn to the sight of an empty coolant tank. Fortunately, I had parked near a fuel pump, providing me the opportunity to purchase two cans of coolant and replenish the reservoir. Seizing the moment, I decided to grab breakfast at a nearby restaurant. This interlude allowed the engine to cool down, granting me the chance to assess the extent of the leak. While I enjoyed my meal, I reached out to my dependable contact at Mahindra. Following their advice, I set my sights on the nearest Mahindra service station - the Nanavati Mahindra in Boisar, a detour of 32 km from my location. Fortuitously, the leak proved not to be severe, and the reservoir contained the fluid during our breakfast break. With a vigilant eye on the temperature gauge, I drove cautiously to Nanavati Mahindra, a journey underscored by a sense of anticipation. By around 9:30 a.m., I arrived at the service centre. The Nanavati Mahindra team was already apprised of my situation and was primed for assistance. Swiftly, a diagnosis revealed that the leak originated from the main hose connecting the radiator to the engine, responsible for channelling hot coolant back to the radiator. A weakened hose edge, its mouth stretched from the tightening of a clip, had caused the gradual leak. In an unexpected twist, the workshop lacked the replacement hose in its inventory, owing to its non-standard status. Through collaboration and resourcefulness, they located the required part at a Mumbai-based service centre. I was assured by both Mr. Appa, the Customer Relationship Manager, and Mr. Hemant, the Service Head, that they comprehended my situation of heading to Ahmedabad, pledging to expedite the process. The team orchestrated a logistical ballet, arranging for the part's transfer from Mumbai to their Vasai workshop through Porter. A representative journeyed from Boisar to Vasai to secure the part, which was subsequently transported back to the Boisar workshop. This logistical ballet unfolded over a span of 6-7 hours, during which the service centre personnel ensured my comfort in their waiting lounge, periodically updating me on the progress. Finally, at around 5:00 p.m., the awaited part arrived and was promptly installed within 30 minutes. A swift trial run confirmed that the leak had been successfully stemmed. Given the lateness of the hour and my preference against nighttime driving, I settled for making it to Surat before calling it a day. Embarking on the subsequent leg of my journey to Ahmedabad the following morning, a pleasant surprise awaited me. Mr Appa from Mahindra reached out to inquire about my safe arrival in Surat and the vehicle's performance. This incident was an unprecedented one for me, experiencing such an issue with a brand-new vehicle within such a short timeframe. It underscores the importance of Mahindra refining its quality control processes, as a coolant hose giving way in just two years of ownership is far from ideal. However, amidst this unexpected hiccup, a silver lining emerged - my experience with the Mahindra Service team was truly commendable. Their efficiency, dedication, and proactive approach exemplify outstanding customer service. In my extensive ownership history, this level of assistance and commitment stands unmatched by any other brand. In the end, while the coolant crisis was an unexpected adventure, it showcased both the challenges and the triumphs that can arise in the realm of car ownership. It's a testament to the unforeseen journeys we navigate on the road and the incredible support that can arise when we least expect it. Check out BHPian comments for more insights and information.

Auto driver intentionally runs over stray dog, sparks outrage in Cuttack

The male stray aged around 1.5-2 years was completely vaccinated recently with administration of three times immunisation and two doses of anti-rabies vaccines. CUTTACK: A city-based animal and birds welfare trust, Susrushaa, on Thursday filed a complaint with Bidanasi police against an auto-rickshaw driver on charges of deliberately killing a community dog by running his vehicle over it. Founder chairperson of Susrushaa and an executive member of Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (SPCA) Saini Mishra in her FIR alleged that the auto-rickshaw driver, a resident of Basuleigada in Bidanasi Kumbhar Sahi intentionally drove his vehicle over the dog at around 4.26 am on September 19 killing the innocent animal on the spot. The male stray aged around 1.5-2 years was completely vaccinated recently with administration of three times immunisation and two doses of anti-rabies vaccines. Later at around 7.38 am on the day, the carcass of the dog was picked up in the garbage lifting vehicle by Cuttack Municipal Corporation (CMC), the FIR added. The whole incident has been recorded by the CCTV cameras installed in the localities. This kind of cruel act towards an innocent animal is unacceptable, Mishra stated in her FIR further urging police to verify the CCTV footage and initiate action against the accused auto driver as per law. Bidanasi IIC PK Naik said a case under sections 279 and 429 of the IPC has been registered and an investigation launched. We will verify the CCTV footage and initiate necessary action, he added.

An automobile park after race? YEIDA is ready with 500 acres

2 years & 40000km with my Kia Carnival: Service & ownership experience

BHPian rrsteer recently shared this with other enthusiasts Time for the 40K and two years ownership update. Will cover the update in two parts. The first part will be about the 40K service experience and in the second part will update about the car in general.Part 1: The 40k service.The dealer's customer service team worked overtime harassing me to bring the car for service. When I did, found my booking was not recorded in the ledger and so ended up being treated like a drop-in with no prior booking. Apart from regular service, additional request from my side were: 1) DON'T touch the wheel alignment/ balancing (I am entitled to free wheel balancing/ alignment once a year) 2) DON'T wash the car (I do the job 10 times better + the cramped washing area doesn't give me the confidence that the car will come out of it without getting hit + I want to keep unknowns from driving my car to a minimum). But, inspite of repeated reminders, they ended up washing the car. A Whatsapp group was created for the service, but absolutely no updates were provided, until i asked for it a couple of times. In the end and as if to taunt me, just one update picture was shared - the car hoisted on the lift! Just a month back I got my 12 year old Etios serviced at the Toyota dealership - incidentally just opposite the Kia dealership. They arguably handle more volume and were attending to a 12 year old discontinued, cheapest model launched by them. But it was a totally satisfying, no fuss experience. In this case, dropped the car (their most expensive model at launch) for service, was promised delivery by 6pm, no updates were provided till 5.30pm, after which it was informed the car could be delivered only the next day. Next day, there were again no updates. From the advisor to the CRM head, all were unresponsive. Finally spoke to the GM service, who got the balls rolling and had the car ready by 2pm. Given my perception of the way the dealership is managed, the folks who work there and the cramped spaces, I am always apprehensive of leaving the car for service. Unfortunately, this time my fears came true. The car was delivered with the front bumper lip unhinged from the main bumper frame. Such are my expectation levels from the dealership, I was almost relieved it was nothing major. But, credit where its due, they immediately agreed to repair it - no questions asked. Finally ending with a happy note. The 40k service cost me just Rs 827/-, and even that was for a new number plate frame and urea top up. The service costs are covered under 5 year service pack which I got at a hugely discounted rate at the time of buying the car. Some pictures from the service experience: First up, the hit job by the dealer: At the dealer, the cars go up a very narrow ramp and make successive extremely narrow hairpin turns to reach the service area which is at the third floor of the building. They have a specialist driver to take the Carnivals up there: Look at all the cars. The washing area is not visible, but on the left side of where the cars are parked at the end. Very cramped and a disaster of a planning effort: The sole update (in the form of a picture) I received on the Whatsapp group. It's so sad, it makes me laugh: Dealership owner's Porsche Taycan. Didn't like the car's looks - looked too bulbous from the front and front side: Part 2: My Ownership Experience.My ownership is aptly depicted by the below chart. I am currently in the slope of enlightenment phase, feeling quite satisfied with the car. Finally, can start to visualise a long (10+ years) ownership period with it. Premature tyre wear was a leading marker of my 'trough of disillusionment' phase. It hampered my ownership experience almost since I purchased the car. The 'issue' itself is quite widespread. I spotted premature tyre wear in all the Carnivals stationed at the dealership this time. But of course mine was an exception, and all thanks to Team-Bhp and in particular these two gents @ss-traveller and @zeng. More details available in this thread. The present condition of the LHS rear tyre. The new tyre (put at ~30k) had worn somewhat by 34k, but since then premature wear has been arrested. There were 3 Carnivals at the dealers. Each had worn off rear tyres. An example below: If I discount the above issue, otherwise in the 40k kms of running and 2 years of ownership I have not faced any mechanical troubles or heard unwanted noises or seen unwanted lights. It drives tight and like new. Before I end the update on the car, and I have mentioned this before but will repeat again, I am still surprised how fuel efficient the car has turned out for me. Believe it or not, it's the most efficient car we have right now. The relatively high figures are a result of it being mostly highway driven + driven at steady speeds between 90kmph and 110kmph + engine braking. Even so, an overall fuel consumption figure approaching 13 kmpl for a 2 ton/200 bhp car is worth applauding, I think: In other news, have added a couple of accessories for the car: A folding solar panel + rechargeable battery. This enables me to play TV in the car for kids when parked without using the car battery. I land up in such situations often, so this was much needed: Got a car window net - again very useful when the car is parked and you want the windows rolled down, but need some sort of a screen: One final picture, and that's it. Hopefully will post the next update at @50k. Cheers: Check out BHPian comments for more insights and information.

FADA concludes 5th Auto Retail Conclave

NL Corresspondent Jammu Tawi: The Federation of Automobile Dealers Associations (FADA) hosted the fifth edition of the Auto Retail Conclave, focusing on the theme Collaborate-Innovate-Accelerate immediately after the 59th AGM. The conclave witnessed the presence of prominent figures in the automobile industry, alongside participation from over 500 dealer members representing various regions of the country. [] The post FADA concludes 5th Auto Retail Conclave appeared first on Northlines .

Nigerians protest mysterious death of Afrobeat star as police exhumes body for autopsy

Thousands have marched across Nigeria over the mysterious death of an Afrobeat star whose body has been exhumed for an autopsy as authorities investigate the cause of his demise

Auto workers rally as deadline nears to expand strikes on Detroit Three

Auto workers rally as deadline nears to expand strikes on Detroit Three United Auto Workers (UAW) members rallied against the Detroit Three automakers in multiple U.S. states on Thursday afternoon as Friday's deadline loomed for a threatened expansion of the union's strikes. The seven-day standoff is fueling worries about prolonged industrial action that could disrupt production and ripple through the supply chain and dent U.S. economic growth. The UAW last week launched unprecedented, simultaneous strikes at one assembly plant each of General Motors, Ford and Chrysler parent Stellantis. Approximately 12,700 workers are on strike as a result of the UAW's coordinated U.S. action out of the union's 146,000 members who work at the Big Three. If we have to drag this thing out in order to stand up, we will, Ayanna Dixon, a 13-year auto worker and union steward told a crowd near a Ford plant in southeast Chicago under gray skies. The raise itself to me will be setting an example for my children, she said. The Chicago plant has not been shut down by the strike and about 100 workers and supporters rallied, holding signs including Stand up, End Tiers. UAW workers want to end a tiered wage structure that they say has created a large gap between newer and older employees, forcing some to work two jobs to make ends meet. In Louisville, Kentucky, at least a couple of hundred workers, family members and supporters gathered at a parking lot near one of Ford's two local assembly plants in support of workers striking elsewhere. Passing cars honked in support and after some speeches, members of the group held hands and sang union songs. UAW President Shawn Fain has promised an expansion of the strikes at 12 p.m. EDT on Friday (1600 GMT), barring serious progress in talks. On Thursday morning, Fain posted a video message on X, formerly known as Twitter, to UAW members about the Friday deadline, showing scenes from several Hollywood movies with the characters saying ick tock. GM said it remained in talks with the UAW on Thursday. Ford said its negotiations continue. Stellantis said on Wednesday it made a fifth offer to the UAW on Tuesday dealing with subcommittee demands, and a source familiar with the talks said those talks continued on Thursday. The White House declined to say on Thursday if President Joe Biden will visit a picket line but said he is pro-UAW workers. We appreciate the fact that they still are at the negotiating table, White House press secretary Karine Jean-Pierre said. Meanwhile, a Reuters/Ipsos poll found significant support by Americans for the striking auto workers. Stellantis, GM and Ford have furloughed some employees at other factories because of the ripple effects of the strikes, including parts shortages, storage constraints and other issues. Analysts expect plants that build high-margin pickup trucks such as Ford's F-150, GM's Chevy Silverado and Stellantis' Ram to be the next targets if the walkout continues. Morgan Stanley analyst Adam Jonas estimated in a Thursday research note that a full month of lost production would cost the three automakers $7 billion to $8 billion in lost profits. Fain has said Detroit automakers have not shared their huge profits with workers while enriching executives and investors. GM President Mark Reuss on Wednesday rejected claims by the union that the record profits made by automakers go toward fueling corporate greed, saying the funds have been reinvested in electric vehicles as well as gasoline-powered cars. In an opinion piece published in the Detroit Free Press, Reuss also called the UAW's demands for a 40% pay hike untenable, signaling the two sides remain far apart over the key issue. The three automakers have proposed 20% raises over 4-1/2 years. S&P said the strikes were highly likely to last several weeks, potentially cutting third-quarter U.S. gross domestic product by 0.39% and causing upheaval across global automotive supply chains. The impact of the strikes has begun to spread to suppliers. On Thursday, BorgWarner said any hit on sales is expected to be relatively modest initially. However, it added that if the strikes were to continue for several weeks or expand to affect other customer plants the impact would be larger. The ongoing walkout at mid-sized truck factories benefits rival Toyota Motor, which does not have unions at its U.S. factories and is about to launch redesigned Tacoma pickup trucks, S&P added. Tesla investors have said a potential hike in wages and benefits at Detroit competitors would widen the EV giant's labor cost structure advantages.

Kapital invests $50M in the acquisition and capitalization of Autofin

byJuliane ButtySeptember 21, 2023No comments1 minute read Kapital, a fintech specializing in financial solutions for SMEs, has acquired the Mexicanbank Autofin, a multi-banking institution focused on []

What striking workers get wrong about automaker profits

GTA+ now includes free games, starting with three Grand Theft Auto remasters

Rockstar announced on Thursday that GTA+ subscribers will now get access to a rotating selection of Rockstar Games. At launch, members can download and play Grand Theft Auto: The Trilogy - The Definitive Edition , the 2021 remaster of early 21st-century classics GTA III , GTA: Vice City and GTA: San Andreas . The games will only be available for the console platform your GTA+ membership is tied to. Grand Theft Auto: The Trilogy - The Definitive Edition typically costs $60, so this could be a cheap and easy way to revisit the trio of open-world pioneers. The remastered trilogy polishes the originals dated graphics with new lighting and environmental upgrades, high-res textures, greater draw distances, modern controls and refined targeting. The 2021 remake starts with the highly influential Grand Theft Auto III (2001), which dazzled turn-of-the-millennium gamers with its vast (for its day) open-world sandbox of Liberty City. 2002s GTA: Vice City built on that formula while adding a voiced protagonist, Tommy Vercetti (the late Ray Liotta), along with an abundance of 1980s nostalgia and satire. GTA: San Andreas capped off the trilogy in 2004 with a broader scope (it spans three cities) and a memorable 1990s hip-hop soundtrack; you walk in the shoes of Carl CJ Johnson (Christopher Bellard) as he returns to his Grove Street home after five years away. GTA+ launched in 2022 for GTA Online players on PS5 and Xbox Series X/S. In addition to the revolving assortment of games, the $6-per-month program offers perks like a monthly deposit of $500,000 in virtual currency, and rotating rewards like in-game vehicles, clothes, properties, weapons and bonus mission rewards. This article originally appeared on Engadget at https://www.engadget.com/gta-now-includes-free-games-starting-with-three-grand-theft-auto-remasters-184032617.html?src=rss

For Tesla and Musk, auto strike carries benefits and risks

Unencumbered by an activist union, Tesla can take advantage of the work stoppages to add to its substantial lead in battery technology and software. As the three established automakers face increases in labor costs and struggle to master electric vehicles, Tesla can twist the knife by lowering car prices because it is much more profitable than most automakers.

Trump autographs woman's tank top shirt at Iowa campaign stop; watch!

Qruise wants to build AI to automate quantum device development

Can software work alongside human physicists and engineers in R&D labs to develop new quantum computers? Thats the question Qruise, a startup in TechCrunchs Battlefield 200 competition at Disrupt 2023, is attempting to answer. Qruise, a spinoff of Forschungszentrum Jlich, a national research institute based in Germany, is building what its founders describe as a []

Auto-rickshaw driver saves woman who fell into River Cooum in Chennai

Autorickshaw driver saves woman who fell into River Cooum in Chennai

Wider Auto Strikes Will Spill Over Beyond Detroit Carmakers To Steelmakers

A wider strike by the United Auto Workers would have an impact beyond the three Detroit carmakers.

GPS-based automatic bus stop announcement system to be installed in all 180 red buses in Coimbatore

2023 Honda Hornet & Dio 125 Repsol Editions launched

Honda Motorcycle & Scooter India (HMSI) has launched the 2023 Repsol Editions of the Hornet and Dio 125 priced at Rs 1,40,000 and Rs 92,300 (ex-showroom). The special editions have been introduced ahead of the inaugural Grand Prix of Bharat. The Honda Hornet Repsol Edition comes in a dual-tone colour scheme in Ross White and Vibrant Orange with Repsol racing stripe. The bike gets an LED headlight, LED turn indicators, an X-shaped LED tail lamp, a split seat and a digital instrument console with 5 levels of customizable brightness. The Hornet is powered by an 184.4cc, single-cylinder engine that makes 17 BHP and 15.9 Nm. The engine is mated to a 5-speed gearbox via a new assist and slipper clutch. The Dio 125 Repsol Edition also comes in a 2-tone colour scheme with Ross White and Vibrant Orange, an LED headlamp, a blacked-out dual tip muffler and a digital instrument console. The Dio 125 also gets Honda's Smart Key. Powering the Dio 125 is a 123.92cc single-cylinder engine that makes 8 BHP and 10.4 Nm. The bike rides on a telescopic front fork and a 3-step adjustable rear shock absorber.

Why I bought a CB 350RS instead of the RE Scram 411: 1st 100 km review

BHPian wangdu recently shared this with other enthusiasts. The 1966 motorcycle slogan You Meet The Nicest People On A Honda is perhaps the most iconic & attention-grabbing ever created. Hoping to be embraced by this endangered elite clan by merely owning a machine, here I am with my CB350RS annihilating Monday blues with this blue of mine. Some background: So, I was searching for a ride that's comfortable, reliable, and can handle city MDR, SH roads/broken roads with ease and some NH runs. My search went around need and greed taking my thoughts and visits to dealers of MT15 to Interceptor 650 My requirements in order were - reliability, refinement, practicality, alloys, good GC, 19 front, clickable, acceleration, 6th gear, 3-5 Lakhs. Basically, to add a good vibe variety machine in my routine life. (Well, this pang hits me often)Ninja 400 went out because there was no connection when I sat on the bike. Then the riding position wasn't practical, 17 front, halogens and beyond budget price made me look elsewhere. If it was Z400, I'd have gone for it.Interceptor 650 all-black would have been heavy, not good for the city and would have conflicted with Tiger when it'd be time to pick a steed for highway run.MT15 was in contention for a less fun bike but multiple showroom visits with strong intent to buy same day were annulled by destiny as their stock was coming in next week.Finally, zeroed down to Scram 411 & CB350RS with the possibility of Ninja400 or the upcoming 390 Duke. In the present, in Scram I'd have to let go of the 6th & alloys and in CB350 the 6th gear. Thinking about the moments I had to push my punctured Electra, the visit to the RE showroom was a short one. CB350 was still down the ranking until I chanced upon it during this past Sunday's Polo GT drive. In the flesh, it looked muscular and urbane - knobby kind of tires, DRL-indicators, polish exhaust sound, 19 front stood out. 6th gear missing reminded me of my priority list, but I picked up a conversation with the owner to figure out in fact how badly would someone need 6th or if it was just in my head from my T100 & RE experience. After all my expectations and requirements weren't for a super-fast or high-speed cruise with this new machine I was looking for. At the end of the talk, it turned out that the absence of the 6th won't be an issue till about 110 km/h. So, in a nutshell, if I just let go of this one requirement, this machine handsomely ticks off all others. Off I went to the nearest dealer in South Delhi. Given the anxiety-driven, impromptu decision-maker I am, I forethought that the delivery would be the same day. After some discussion with the Sales guy and wrapping my head around trivial differences of various models, an on-display blue pulled me towards it, allured enough I asked & they agreed for delivery in next few hours. End of search. I didn't take any test rides, as I rarely do. For mutual understanding, aligning with the character of the bike and any adjusting to it, there are limitless hours, just the connection, the click must be wonderful at the first encounter. Got the insurance done from the Acko app then and there, 6k cheaper.Accessories - Knuckle guards, windscreen, leg guard.Handlebar gel grip covers from a local shop, Rs 50/-; perfect for bikes with thin dia handlebars, provides very useful comfort to palms, especially riding slightly leaned forward position bikes.Not good for thicker ones like the Ninja 1000 or Tiger I have as the handlebar holding circumference increases a lot. Riding done - 100 km so far No heat felt while getting the bike home on a sunny day in dense Delhi traffic. Rode the bike so far in traffic, curvy, straight, broken patches and I think I made the right decision. Here are my thoughts on riding 100 km on the route I have taken with all the bikes I have had.On patchy broken roads, standing up riding mimics adventure bike experience - due to 19 front, ground clearanceUsual sitting and riding give a sedate urban ride feeling with sports bike-like flick ability & traffic filteringFine angle leaning is done with aplomb thanks to the 150 mm width rear tyre and the overall geometryAcceleration isn't its forte clearly, refinement and smoothness strongly are. The machine has a half to 1-second lag to respond to the jiffy accelerator pull that seems to have happened ages ago.ECO mode lights up at 45kmph in 2nd gear, 65kmph in 3rd, 85kmph in 4th. This tells that there's a fair amount of room for the wrist to be twisted before the engine would really protest.Riding non-stop for about 40kms I had to stop at a traffic light, the gear was shifted to 'N', another Honda steed stopped next to me, it SHINEd. I was next to another ice human I thought, I smiled.At the traffic signal, the new engine sound turned to a mild calming thump. I had my ears zoomed in on this sound and was in the process of making myself familiar with it when I realized the traffic light countdown to green was much faster today than usual. Another 45 kms to ride today for the way back home, I'll let my heart & head continue to note down these emotions and experiences then. Before closing, credit where it's due. The lady contributed a mandatory to-be-returned part payment largely because she likes to pillion on the bikes with flat seats like the Bonnie she was pillion on once or twice perhaps. And if staying perpetually in the motorcycling world is a crime, here's my partner in it for about 7 years egging me on in this bottomless world of automobiles (much to my pleasure though). Next year he would leave for college and that might bring me some dull prudence; something my wife is so longing for. Thanks to this forum for letting me alk to comrade riders. Check out BHPian comments for more insights and information.

Royal Enfield Himalayan could use 452cc engine packing 40 hp

The Royal Enfield Himalayan has been in the news for quite some time now. Ever since the first spy images appeared on the internet, there have been reports indicating that the ADV could use a slightly larger capacity engine than the current 411cc unit. Latest rumours suggest that the bike could be called the Himalayan 452. As per the latest reports, the Himalayan 452 could be powered by a 451.65cc single-cylinder engine producing 39.47 BHP @ 8,000 rpm. The engine is likely to be mated with a 6-speed gearbox. The report also reveals details of the bike's chassis and suspension. The Himalayan 452 is said to have a wheelbase of 1,510 mm, which is slightly longer than the current model. Length is also said to have increased to 2,245 mm, while width has gone up to 852 mm. The Himalayan 452 is expected to be equipped with an upside-down front fork and a mono-shock at the rear. It will ride on 21-inch front and 17-inch rear spoke wheels with disc brakes at both ends supported by dual-channel ABS. The Royal Enfield Himalayan 452 is expected to be unveiled on November 1, 2023. Source:Bikewale

UK: 98-year-old man gets to drive via young driver's program

According to a media report, Don Mitchell, an elderly British man, recently got the opportunity to get back in the driver's seat thanks to a Young Drivers Program. Don Mitchell, who will be turning 100 next year, gave up his driver's licence when he was 94 due to safety concerns. The soon-to-be centenarian stated that he enjoyed driving for five decades, and it was a heartbreaking moment when he had to give up his licence. However, thanks to the 'Together We Can Initiative by Yorkare Homes, Don was able to get back behind the wheel once again. The Young Driver Program is a scheme specifically designed to teach individuals under the age of 17 how to drive. The program operates at private venues and offers a safe and engaging way for young adults to gain hands-on driving experience and teach crucial skills like steering, gear shifting, braking, handling junctions & roundabouts and even how to parallel park. The program has no upper age limit & welcomes individuals of all ages to return to the driver's seat. It has been held for 14 years and has provided driving lessons to over 1.3 million people. However, Don Mitchell is said to be the oldest participant to date. Don was given the keys to a Vauxhall Corsa with dual controls and a fully qualified instructor in the passenger seat. Don Mitchell stated, I was delighted to be able to get behind the wheel again, I was heartbroken to give up my license. He further added, I think I still drove quite safely at 94 but there comes a time when it has to be given up. It was great to check I hadn't forgotten all of my driving skills - and, like riding a bike, it all comes back to you. Source: Motor1

800 km with my Xpluse 200: First bike service & trail ride experience

BHPian 2StrokeJunkie recently shared this with other enthusiasts. An update on the Xpulse. I have clocked around 800 km so far. The first service was at around 550 km. Also did my first proper ride out of the city of around 250 km today. The service was done at Bhagat Motors Hormavu from where I picked up the motorcycle. I was not thrilled with the quality of the first service. The Hero sticker on the rear mudguard had been blasted off with their pressure washer. My feedback to Hero was that there is too much:Pressure in the pressure washToo much lube on the chainToo much polishI was pretty peeved about the sticker. I know it's a small thing but I expect the vehicle to be returned to me in a similar or better condition than when I drop it off for service. I don't expect to catch damage done during service albeit however small. If they did it, they should've fixed it before I noticed. Unfortunately for them, they don't have the sticker in stock. The polish was sprayed on all plastic parts and left to dry. I reached an hour after they called me to pick it up but it still wasn't ready because they were still polishing it. Polish is sprayed liberally, even the disc rotors weren't spared and the polish was left to dry, I had to remind them to wipe and shine it off. The polish on the switchgear and plastic parts left them feeling old and used. The chain was heavily lubed, and there was oil splattered on the chassis near the front sprocket. Overall in terms of feel, I was not too happy since I felt they had ruined the new bike feel of the motorcycle. However, everything else feels fine. I couldn't monitor them servicing the motorcycle but the turnaround was pretty quick, I left the bike with 5 bars of fuel at the service centre the previous day around 6 p.m. and road out of the showroom the next day at around 5 p.m. with the fuel intact. In the first service, the clutch cover needs to be removed and the screen filter and centrifugal pump cleaned. I am glad to report there are no oil leaks. Also, they did change the oil, glad to report they did not forget to do this. I checked the level myself with the dipstick since there is no oil level window. I'm not sure about the grade of the oil but it is Hero fully synthetic. The damage to my wallet excluding labour (Free) was around 1.6k which is pretty reasonable. They blasted the polish off the disc rotors with their trusty pressure washer and they are holding fine. Bhagat Motors also organized a Breakfast Ride ride today to Kaiwara Hills - Kailasagiri Hils past Hoskote on the way to Chintamani. The staff organized the ride, sponsored our breakfast, and gave the 10 of us who turned up free Hero Xpulse 4V branded T-shirts. It was a pretty cool experience and I am glad the dealership is taking this initiative to help owners experience the capabilities of their machines and create a motorcycling community around the Xpulse. The ride up Kailasa Giri was off-road, beginner to intermediate level. All my confidence ends when the tarmac ends but I was really impressed with the capability of the Xpulse Pro. The grip levels were good, with no scary moments, minimal wheel lock-ups, and not too much slip and slide, and the way it climbs rocks, ledges, etc. what would otherwise seem impossible on most other motorcycles, is simply amazing. The ground clearance is an added boon, the suspension kept me comfortable through my rear shock is set on its softest setting, and it did not bottom out. The front abs worked well, I did not even change the ABS mode, the rear with no abs is perfect so it lets it slip, and slide while never making the rider feel overwhelmed. This motorcycle really comes into its element when the tarmac ends. They will soon be organizing a ride to Big Rock and some more trail rides that I am eagerly looking forward to. I used my ViaTerra tank bag that I usually use on the Interceptor but felt it was a little large for the Xpulse tank, doesn't really cause a problem but straddling leads to my stomach pushing the tank bag up. The bag also does not seem to hold onto the tank as the motorcycle flies over bumps. The seat started making my butt go numb around 45 mins into the ride but after that, it didn't bother me too much. I started feeling sleepy on the highway because the lead was riding too slowly. On the way back I tried to maintain a steady 80 kmph to keep myself engaged. Hit a top speed of around 110 km/h on some downslopes. This bike is a little outgunned on the highway, obviously not as engaging as the Interceptor, the exhaust is inaudible through my earplugs and helmet. 80-90 km/h feels comfortable - anything above that and it starts to feel a little stressed. Another rider that I met and hung out with today told me that his 2V does around 130 km/h tops so I guess that's the top speed with the engine bouncing off the rev limiter. Mileage is great, I haven't really measured but for around 4.5 litres of gas, I am able to cover around 180-200 km. Today is also probably the first time this motor has been revved to about 8k rpm in all 5 gears, so my running-in is complete, not gonna baby the motor anymore. The ride up was a little steep and I was worried the tiny motor would run out of breath but I was pleasantly surprised with how it went about its business with no complaints pulling up easily on most inclines in 2nd and 3rd gear. I now have around 2600 km to go before my second service. The Xpulse's primary purpose is as a commuter and its secondary purpose is for weekend rides off the beaten path and it's performing both duties with aplomb. I am playing with the idea of an aftermarket exhaust but it would take away the commuter capabilities of it. Been looking at Norifumi, Quickshift, and the Motowings exhaust. I think it will add some character to this very mind-mannered Xpulse. Also maybe the MotoTorque saddle stays, a smaller Rynox tank bag, a way2speed tubeless conversion, and maybe an air filter. I've been watching videos of some heavily modified Xpulses on YouTube, if you've got a trick Xpulse, post up! Check out BHPian comments for more insights and information.

Maybach to offer coachbuilt bespoke models in the future

Maybach is known for offering ultra-luxury iterations of Mercedes-Benz's flagship models. The lineup currently consists of high-end versions of the S-Class, GLS and EQS SUV. However, according to a media report, Maybach is aiming to go one step higher on the ultra-luxury ladder, offering a range of bespoke models to its customers. In addition to the luxury versions of the S-Class, GLS & EQS SUV, Maybach will expand to offer the brand's Myth or Legend cars. These Legend cars from Maybach will be extra special models, that are either very expensive limited-run vehicles or one-offs commissioned by wealthy collectors. The new portfolio is aimed at narrowing the gap with other luxury carmakers like Bentley and Rolls Royce. As per the report, Maybach wants to turn into a coachbuilt super-Mercedes with personalisation options at a whole new level. This includes unique body panels and ultimately a made-to-measure body in white. The next flagship sedan from Mercedes-Maybach will reportedly get its own livery while also featuring a bespoke cockpit with an individualised hyperscreen and virtual-reality trim. Reports also state that pricing for the Legend cars can easily stretch into seven figures. The cars though would be prestigious and offer outstanding performance along with extraordinary craftsmanship, world-class safety and comfort and autonomous-ready software. The report explains future Maybach cars as a high-end mobile retreat, combining the creature comforts of a living room with a totally relaxed riding experience. CTO Markus Schfer stated, At the end of the day, the marque's understanding of luxury is to be the ultimate purveyor of quality time on the go-CO2-neutral, stress-negative, response-positive and totally unique in execution. Source: Car&Driver

You Can Now Autofill Email Verification Codes on iOS 17 - CNET

There's a catch though.

Why I bought 3 Suzuki Access in a row: Ownership experience with each

BHPian vigsom recently shared this with other enthusiasts.IntroductionAfter the Bajaj era, how many times has one heard of someone acquiring three scooters of the same make/name one after the other? It happened to us - three Suzuki Access 125s - first by chance, second by chance, and third by chance! While it would have been apt to call this experience a hat trick, I didn't use this phrase as a hat trick is normally associated with success and happiness, which wasn't quite the case with me with the Suzuki Access. Read on to know why.Circa 2012We were using an old Scooty Pep (the 75cc one) which did seem a tad inadequate when riding duo. Although I had a Toyota Corolla then in Chennai, the city as most of us know is ideally navigated using a two-wheeler. I'd end up driving even when I didn't want to and that would be a pain, especially with heavy traffic on Arcot Road/ Kodambakkam High Road, and the then under-construction metro affected 100 feet Road. The need for a second two-wheeler was then felt.Options consideredWe've historically used two-wheelers no more than 3,000 km a year, but the km done on the Scooty Pep seemed to suggest we were doing 7k a year. An equal split between two scooters would mean the ideal 3.5k km a year OR once-in-a-year service. We looked at a few options and shortlisted them.Honda Activa 110: the best price at the time; it was getting to approximately INR 60k on the road. The salespeople's experience at KUN on Dr Ambedkar Road was good. They said black was readily available but white would take up to 10 daysTVS Wego: I always admired this vehicle for its novelties - a fuel filler cap independent of the rear seat, an easy-to-mount centre stand, nice upright seating, and 12-inch wheels. On road price was 62k. Sales team experience at Maruthi TVS West Mambalam was just averageHero Maestro: sported the same engine as the Activa, and was priced a tad lower at approx INR 59k on-road, but one experience at Vishnu Hero at Ekatuthangal was enough to say, Thank You. Worst sales team who were rather casual about the enquiry. They just gave a lame excuse for a vehicle not being available and Battery pottu vandi ready pannanum (battery would need to be fitted to make the scooter ready for display)We had almost decided on getting the Wego and were going to shortlist one at Ramkay TVS Adyar when I chanced upon an ad on sulekha.com. For those who remember, olx wasn't a strong platform then while Quikr and Sulekha did show genuine ads.Options considered (Contd.)An ad on sulekha.com showed this early 2012 registered silver Suzuki Access, done a mere 600 km for sale. I'd until this ad thought that a Suzuki Access commanded a waiting period and with limited dealerships, we'd be stuck with a monopolistic set-up at least until free and paid services were over. To add to this, it was a 125cc engine which would mean a higher price tag and a little lower FE; all assumptions with no basis or data!What made this an examinable propositionIt looked pretty similar to our earlier scooter in Gujarat - a Kinetic Nova 135The full ABS panels would mean zero corrosion - like the Nova 135My wife fell so much in love with the Nova for its super powerful engine and its cavernous boot, and this Access would also sport these two virtuesHere was an almost brand new, less than 6 months old, 600 km run fully accessorized scooter that was available right thereSilver was a pleasing colour - probably the best on an old AccessEvaluation and closureI contacted the seller, and off I went to his residence, tucked away in one of the by-lanes of West Saidapet. It was 7 in the morning so I could beat traffic and mayhem. Went to the seller's place, and the vehicle was covered. The moment the cover was off, it was an instant attraction; so much in common with the Nova 135. I fired the engine up and that one thing was enough - one of the sweetest sounding engines among all two-wheelers that I've come across - the engines on the Honda Shine and Honda Unicorn were also smooth as silk. A short test ride revealed all was fine. Examined the documents and everything was in order. I later got back to the seller with a reasonable offer, and after a 24-hour wait, we were given the nod by the seller. I picked the scooter up at approx. 18% below the cost of a new one, which was fair. It was as good as brand new. Ma'am was happy, and that mattered more than anything else. Continue reading BHPian vigsom's review for more insights and information.

US autoworkers to expand strikes amid contract stalemate: Were not messing around

UAW to launch additional strikes if agreements with General Motors, Stellantis and Ford are not reached by 22 September The United Auto Workers (UAW) looks set to escalate strike actions against US car plants on Friday as the union struggles to reach a deal with the automakers General Motors, Stellantis and Ford. The UAW president, Shawn Fain, announced last week that the union would launch a series of stand up strikes at individual car plants after failing to reach agreement over a new union contract with the car companies. Continue reading...