News Companion

Day: July 9, 2024

Redmi Pad Pro Set to Make Debut in India: Specs, Features, and More Unveiled!

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Redmi Pad Pro Officially

Redmi Pad Pro Launching in India This Month

Redmi has announced that the Redmi Pad Pro will launch in India later this month. This news came during the launch of the Redmi 13 5G in India on Tuesday. The tablet was first introduced in China on May 20 as part of Redmi’s tablet lineup powered by HyperOS. However, the company hasn’t shared details about the Indian version of the Redmi Pad Pro. This announcement follows the tablet’s appearance on the Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS) website a few months ago.

Expected Specifications of Redmi Pad Pro

While the Redmi Pad Pro is already available in China, it’s unclear if the Indian version will have the same specifications.

In China, the Redmi Pad Pro features a 12.1-inch LCD screen with a resolution of 2560×1600 and a pixel density of 249 pixels per inch (ppi). The display has a refresh rate of 120Hz and can reach a peak brightness of 600 nits. It is Dolby Vision certified and protected by Corning Gorilla Glass 3. The display also includes adaptive reading mode, TÜV Rheinland Low Blue Light, Flicker Free, and Circadian Friendly features.

The tablet is powered by the Snapdragon 7s Gen 2 processor with a maximum speed of 2.4GHz. It comes with up to 8GB of LPDDR4X RAM and up to 256GB of UFS 2.2 storage, expandable up to 1.5TB. It runs on Xiaomi’s HyperOS based on Android 14.

For cameras, the Redmi Pad Pro has an 8-megapixel rear camera that supports 1080p video recording at 30fps, and an 8-megapixel front camera.

The tablet includes support for Wi-Fi 6, Bluetooth 5.2, Wi-Fi Direct, Miracast, and USB 2.0 data transfer speeds. It is powered by a 10,000mAh battery that supports up to 33W fast charging via USB Type-C. The tablet’s dimensions are 280.0×181.85×7.52mm and it weighs 571 grams.

Kia Seltos to Introduce Hybrid Option in 2025: Market Strategy Unveiled

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Kia Seltos hybrid expected 2025

Kia Seltos to Get Hybrid Option in 2025

Kia is introducing a hybrid powertrain for the Kia Seltos with its next-generation model, set to be released in the second half of 2025. This will be the first time the Seltos has a hybrid (HEV) option, according to a report by South Korean news portal ETNews.

Kia’s Strategic Move

Kia’s decision to offer a hybrid Seltos is a response to changing market trends. While demand for electric vehicles (EVs) has slowed down a bit, hybrid vehicles are becoming more popular. By adding a hybrid option to the Seltos, Kia aims to attract more customers and meet a variety of preferences.

Focus on Electrification and the Indian Market

Introducing the Seltos Hybrid is part of Kia’s larger plan to offer electric options for all five of its SUV and RV models in Korea. This strategy may also be applied in India, where the Seltos has been very successful since its launch in 2019. The hybrid version could make the Seltos even more popular in India by offering better fuel efficiency.

Expected Features and Impact

According to ETNews, the Kia Seltos Hybrid will likely use the 1.6-liter hybrid system currently in the Hyundai Kona Hybrid, which delivers 141 bhp and a fuel efficiency of 18.1 to 19.8 km per liter. Additionally, Kia is developing an electronic all-wheel-drive (E-AWD) system for the Seltos Hybrid to improve performance, especially in markets like Europe where AWD vehicles are in high demand.

Combining a reliable hybrid system with the well-known Seltos brand could make this new model a popular choice for Indian consumers seeking a balance between cost and eco-friendliness.

Changing Priorities

Last year, Kia India suggested they would focus on electric vehicles (EVs) from 2025 onwards, but their recent interest in hybrids shows a shift in strategy. Market research indicates that hybrid adoption in India’s mass market segment has grown to 2.5%, and future emission regulations may increase hybrid demand. Kia sees this as a timely opportunity and plans to introduce hybrid models along with their EV plans.

Xiaomi Unveils SU7 Electric Sedan in India for 10th Anniversary Celebration

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Xiaomi SU7 electric sedan makes India debut

Xiaomi Showcases SU7 Electric Sedan in India for 10th Anniversary

Xiaomi, the Chinese electronics giant, unveiled its SU7 electric sedan in India as part of its 10th-anniversary celebrations. The SU7 was first introduced globally in December last year.

Key Features of Xiaomi SU7:

  • Range: Up to 830 km (CLTC)
  • Power: 673 hp and 838 Nm torque with all-wheel drive
  • India Launch: Not confirmed yet

Xiaomi SU7 Design:

The SU7’s design was led by Sawyer Li, Xiaomi’s head of design, who previously worked on the BMW iX and Circular Vision Concept. The sedan is 4,997 mm long, 1,963 mm wide, and 1,440 mm tall. Its sleek, aerodynamic shape, reminiscent of the Porsche Taycan and BYD Seal, gives it a drag coefficient of just 0.195. The interior features a minimalistic layout with a large touchscreen, a digital driver’s display, a large head-up display, and a panoramic glass roof.

Xiaomi SU7 Battery and Performance:

In China, the SU7 comes with three battery options:

  • 73.6 kWh: Up to 700 km range, rear-wheel drive
  • 94.3 kWh: Up to 830 km range, rear-wheel drive
  • 101 kWh (SU7 Max): All-wheel drive, 800 km range, and 0-100 kph in 2.78 seconds

The top variant produces 673 hp and 838 Nm torque, with a top speed of 265 kph. The rear-wheel-drive models generate 299 hp and 400 Nm torque.

Xiaomi SU7 India Launch and Pricing:

Xiaomi has not yet announced plans to launch the SU7 in India. In China, prices start at ¥215,900 (approximately Rs 24.79 lakh) for the base model, ¥245,900 (approximately Rs 28.23 lakh) for the mid-level SU7 Pro, and ¥299,900 (approximately Rs 34.42 lakh) for the top variant.

Mahindra Celebrates XUV700’s 3rd Anniversary with Special Prices and New Features

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Mahindra XUV700 AX7

Mahindra Celebrates XUV700’s 3rd Anniversary with Special Prices

Mahindra is celebrating the 3rd anniversary of the XUV700 and marking a production milestone of 200,000 units in less than three years. To commemorate this, Mahindra has announced special prices for the next four months.

The AX7 range of the XUV700 is packed with premium features like a Panoramic Skyroof™, dual 26.03 cm HD Superscreens in a smart cockpit, Level-2 ADAS with Adaptive Cruise Control for added safety, 3D Audio with 12 Sony speakers, a 6-way Powered Memory Seat with Welcome Retract, and built-in Amazon Alexa.

Chandigarh, July 09, 2024: Mahindra & Mahindra Ltd., a leading SUV manufacturer in India, is offering special celebratory ex-showroom prices for the AX7 range. This special pricing, available for four months, celebrates the XUV700’s three-year anniversary. The SUV has also reached a significant milestone, producing 200,000 units in less than three years.

Now, the fully-loaded AX7 range of the Mahindra XUV700 starts at ₹19.49 Lakh, making it easier for more people to enjoy its advanced features. These features include Level-2 ADAS with adaptive cruise control for better safety, a panoramic skyroof™ for a spacious feel, dual HD superscreens, and 3D audio with 12 Sony speakers for an immersive experience. It also includes plush leatherette seats for superior comfort.

Mahindra has also introduced two new color options, Deep Forest and Burnt Sienna, expanding the range to nine unique colors.

The special prices and new colors show Mahindra’s appreciation for its customers’ support and trust in the XUV700. The new pricing aims to make the XUV700 more accessible while providing great value.

Mahindra continues to innovate, improving the XUV700’s engineering and production processes. The recent introduction of new variants like the AX5 Select, MX 7-seater, and Blaze edition, offers more choices, ensuring there’s a perfect XUV700 for everyone.

2024 Mahindra XUV700 AX7 Prices:

PetrolDiesel
VariantSeaterMTATMTAT
AX76-strRs 19.69 lakhRs 21.19 lakhRs 20.19 lakhRs 21.79 lakh
7-strRs 19.49 lakhRs 20.99 lakhRs 19.99 lakhRs 21.59 lakh
7-str AWD–––Rs 22.8 lakh
AX7 L6-str–Rs 23.69 lakhRs 22.69 lakhRs 24.19 lakh
7-str–Rs 23.49 lakhRs 22.49 lakhRs 23.99 lakh
7-str AWD–––Rs 24.99 lakh

Hyundai Deals Alert: July Offers on i20, Alcazar, Tucson, and More!

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Hyundai Deals Alert

Have you been dreaming about a Hyundai car but feeling discouraged by high prices and long wait times? Don’t worry, because July is offering great deals and discounts on various car models, including Hyundai. Here are the best deals you can find on Hyundai models like the i20, Alcazar, Tucson, and more.

Best deals on Hyundai Grand i10 NIOS:

The Hyundai Grand i10 NIOS is priced between ₹6 lakh and ₹8.50 lakh. It’s a fun and stylish car, perfect for driving around town. You can now get discounts of up to ₹30,000, plus an additional exchange bonus of up to ₹10,000.

Best deals on Hyundai i20:

The Hyundai i20 is one of the most popular hatchbacks in the country. It features a sporty design and a feature-packed cabin. This month, you can get discounts of up to ₹30,000 and an exchange bonus of up to ₹10,000.

Best deals on Hyundai Verna:

The Hyundai Verna is priced between ₹11 lakh and ₹17.50 lakh (ex-showroom). Although the sedan segment has shrunk, the Verna remains a practical choice with petrol and diesel options, a spacious cabin, and lots of features. Currently, it comes with a discount of up to ₹20,000 and an exchange bonus of around ₹15,000.

Best deals on Hyundai Alcazar:

The Hyundai Alcazar is priced between ₹17 lakh and ₹21.30 lakh (ex-showroom). This three-row model offers a practical and comfortable cabin. You can now get discounts of up to ₹55,000 and an exchange bonus of around ₹30,000.

Best deals on Hyundai Tucson:

The Hyundai Tucson is priced between ₹29 lakh and ₹36 lakh (ex-showroom), making it the most expensive Hyundai model in India. It’s a stylish and premium SUV with a feature-packed, plush cabin. Depending on the model year, you can get discounts of up to ₹2 lakh.

Now is a great time to take advantage of these offers and drive home your dream Hyundai car!

Hyundai’s Electric Future: Creta EV Launch in 2025 & HE1i SUV in 2026

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New Electric SUV

Hyundai Motor India Limited (HMIL) will enter the mass-market EV segment with the upcoming Creta EV, set to go on sale in the first quarter of 2025. The Korean carmaker aims to compete with Tata Motors in the electric vehicle market by launching several new products in the coming years. Recently, Hyundai’s headquarters approved a new project to develop a new electric car to rival the Tata Punch EV.

This new sub-compact electric SUV from Hyundai, codenamed HE1i, is confirmed for launch in India and is expected to debut in the second half of 2026. The HE1i will be based on the Inster EV, which was recently showcased at the Busan Auto Show in South Korea.

Hyundai's Electric Future

Hyundai will use a revised electric vehicle architecture derived from the ICE-specific platform for the Creta EV. For the HE1i EV, they will use the born electric E-GMP (K) platform, a global affordable architecture for small mass-market electric cars. The HE1i will be manufactured at Hyundai’s Sriperumbudur facility, with localized battery packs supplied by Exide.

The Inster EV is based on the Casper, sold in several overseas markets. However, the Inster is larger, measuring 3,825mm in length, which is 230mm longer than the Casper. This extra length helps accommodate the battery pack on the floorboard.

Hyundai's Electric Future

The Inster will offer two battery packs internationally: a standard 42 kWh unit with a range of 300 kilometers and a long-range 49 kWh unit with a range of 355 kilometers on a single charge. The India-spec model will likely have similar battery options at launch, just like the Tata Punch EV.

Hyundai plans to produce around 90,000 units annually for the two upcoming EVs, with 26,000 units for the Creta EV and 65,000 units for the compact HE1i SUV. A significant portion of this volume will be for exports, especially for the Inster-based EV.

Mercedes 12 New Models for 2024: From EQA to Maybach EQS, What’s Coming Next?

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New Mercedes E Class, G Class EV, Maybach EQS

Mercedes has launched six new cars and SUVs in the first half of 2024 and plans to release six more models by the end of the year. At the launch event for the EQA and EQB facelift in India, the German brand confirmed the upcoming all-electric G-Class, called the G 580 with EQ Technology, and the luxurious Maybach EQS SUV. They also hinted at an AMG model and showed a silhouette of a four-seat convertible.

Upcoming EVs in India

Mercedes will bring two more electric vehicles (EVs) to India this year. They have already started taking bookings for the all-electric G-Class. Priced around Rs 3 crore (ex-showroom), the G 580 with EQ Technology features a 116kWh battery, offering a range of up to 473km (WLTP). It has four individual motors powering each wheel, providing a combined 587hp and 1,164Nm of peak torque, with each motor having a separate 2-speed gearbox.

Mercedes G 580 with EQ Technology

Mercedes claims the G 580 can go from 0 to 100kph in less than 5 seconds and has a top speed of 180kph. While it resembles the standard G-Class, it has subtle design tweaks to improve aerodynamics. The G 580 includes three special features for off-road driving: G-Turn for rotating 720 degrees on the spot, G-Steering for reducing the turning circle, and an off-road crawler function that operates as low as 2kph. It also has a ‘transparent bonnet’ function using front-facing cameras to display an image on the infotainment screen.

Mercedes-Maybach EQS SUV

The most expensive Mercedes EV, the Maybach EQS SUV, will also be launched in India soon. It features more chrome than the standard EQS SUV and includes signature Maybach wheels, dual-tone paint, and various logos. Expected to be launched in the ‘680’ form, it will have a 108.4kWh battery, providing a range of 600km. Two electric motors deliver a total output of 658hp and 950Nm of torque. It can go from 0 to 100kph in 4.4 seconds and has a top speed of 210kph. Prices are expected to be around Rs 4 crore (ex-showroom).

New Mercedes E-Class LWB

New Mercedes E-Class LWB

The sixth-generation E-Class will be launched this festive season, competing with the newly launched BMW 5 Series LWB. Prices are expected to be around Rs 70 lakh-80 lakh, with mild-hybrid petrol and diesel engine options. The new E-Class is larger than its predecessor, though the 5 Series LWB is still bigger. It’s uncertain if the ‘Superscreen’ – a combination of a 12.3-inch instrument cluster, a 14.4-inch touchscreen infotainment display, and a 12.3-inch passenger touchscreen – will be available in the India-spec E-Class.

New Mercedes-AMG GT

The new AMG GT, likely priced around Rs 2.5 crore, is larger, roomier, and more practical than its predecessor. It has a new body structure made of aluminum, composite fiber materials, magnesium, and steel. Power comes from a twin-turbo 4.0-litre V8 engine, producing 476hp in the 55 4Matic+ version and 585hp in the 63 4Matic+ version. A 9-speed automatic transmission sends power to all four wheels.

Mercedes-AMG GT

Mercedes also teased a four-seat convertible, likely the CLE Cabriolet, which was revealed last July. Internationally, it’s available in various versions, including the CLE 200 (204hp), CLE 300 (258hp), CLE 450 (381hp), and CLE 220d (197hp). There is also an AMG ‘53’ version with a 449hp mild-hybrid straight-six turbo-petrol engine. The more powerful CLE 63 AMG, with a 4.0-litre V8 engine, is also in development. It’s unclear which of these versions will be available in India. Stay tuned for more updates as the launch approaches.

Kalki 2898 AD Box Office Triumph: Prabhas and Deepika Padukone’s Rs 1000 Crore Globally

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Untitled design 2024 07 09T081906.783 Kalki 2898 AD Box Office Triumph: Prabhas and Deepika Padukone's Rs 1000 Crore Globally

Kalki 2898 AD Box Office Collection Day 12

Nag Ashwin’s sci-fi film “Kalki 2898 AD,” starring Prabhas, Deepika Padukone, Amitabh Bachchan, and Kamal Haasan, continues to dominate the box office. In just 11 days, the film has reached major milestones, earning over Rs 500 crore in India and joining the Rs 1000 crore club worldwide. Despite a drop in collections on Monday, the film rebounded over its second weekend, achieving impressive numbers and setting new records globally.

Box Office Performance

In its first 11 days, “Kalki 2898 AD” earned an estimated Rs 510.05 crore net in India. On day 12, it added around Rs 11.35 crore net, bringing the total to Rs 521.4 crore. The film had a 23.72% occupancy in Telugu-speaking areas on Monday, July 8, 2024, showing strong performance in its second week. The occupancy rates for different showtimes were 16.03% in the morning, 22.69% in the afternoon, 29.13% in the evening, and 27.02% at night.

Prabhas’ film continues to do well, surpassing “RRR” with its impressive earnings and nearing the Rs 1000 crore mark globally.

About Kalki 2898 AD

“Kalki 2898 AD” became the third-highest opener in Indian cinema, earning Rs 191 crore globally on its first day. “RRR” tops the list with Rs 223 crore, followed by “Baahubali 2” with over Rs 217 crore on its opening day. Within five days of its release, “Kalki 2898 AD” entered the Rs 600 crore club, showing strong box office performance. Directed by Nag Ashwin and produced by Vyjayanthi Movies, this grand-scale 3D production mixes elements of the Hindu epic Mahabharata with science fiction.

Set in the dystopian future of 2898 AD, the story follows a group protecting the unborn child, Kalki, from SUM-80, an experimental subject. In an interview with Variety, Nag Ashwin shared insights about the upcoming sequel. He mentioned that they have completed 25 to 30 days of shooting, but many key action scenes are yet to be filmed. The sequel aims to resolve all open storylines, focusing on the epic clash between Yaskin, Karna, and Ashwatthama.

Bigg Boss OTT 3: Armaan Malik’s Anger Erupts Over Kritika Sitting Next to Vishal Pandey

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Bigg Boss OTT 3: Armaan Malik's Anger

In the recent episode of Bigg Boss OTT 3, Armaan Malik got angry with his second wife, Kritika Malik, for sitting next to Vishal Pandey. The issue started when Bigg Boss announced the nomination task, and all the housemates gathered in the living area. Kritika, who arrived last, sat next to Vishal Pandey, which upset Armaan. He then scolded her, prompting Kritika to move and sit next to her YouTuber husband.

“Come here now, haven’t you opened your eyes yet?” Armaan said, as quoted by ETimes. Kritika replied, “My eyes are open now.” Armaan continued, “I still feel like there’s a blindfold over your eyes. I’ll have to get you glasses or lenses.” Kritika responded, “There was a place, so I went and sat next to Shivani.”

Armaan went on, “You always say someone showed up, so I did this. You say you didn’t know, so you did that.” When Kritika tried to explain, Armaan added, “I feel like I didn’t come here with you.”

Armaan was upset because his first wife, Payal, recently appeared on the show and claimed that Vishal admitted to liking Kritika and feeling bad about it. After this, Anil Kapoor and Armaan scolded Vishal, who denied it. Later, when Armaan tried to talk to Vishal about it, he asked Luv to repeat Vishal’s exact words about Kritika. This made Armaan angry, and he slapped Vishal. Other housemates stepped in to stop the fight, but the tension remained high.

Bigg Boss OTT 3 also features Shivani Kumari, Sai Ketan Rao, Sana Makbul, Ranvir Shorey, and Deepak Chaurasia. This season marks the digital debut of Anil Kapoor, who replaced Salman Khan as the host. Salman couldn’t participate due to other professional commitments. Before Salman, Karan Johar hosted the first season of Bigg Boss OTT.

Kohli and Rohit Rest After T20 World Cup Win; Pandya or Rahul to Lead India in Sri Lanka Series

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Kohli and Rohit Rest

After winning the historic T20 World Cup 2024, senior players Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma are taking a well-deserved break. Both have retired from T20I cricket but are still likely to be part of the ODI squad. With India set to play against Sri Lanka in an ODI and T20I series, reports indicate that Rohit and Kohli will not be participating, as the Indian board wants them to rest before the home season.

The question now is, who will lead the team? According to a PTI report, the captain for the series will likely be either Hardik Pandya or KL Rahul.

“Both are automatic choices for the ODI setup, and the three 50-over games against England before the Champions Trophy will provide good practice for them. For the next few months, they will prioritize Tests, with India scheduled to play 10 Test matches between September and January,” a BCCI source told PTI.

“The Champions Trophy will take place in mid-February, and they don’t need to play the week-long three-match ODIs in Sri Lanka. If they want to join, they are welcome, but I guess they would prefer to rest,” the source added.

After India’s T20 World Cup 2024 win, BCCI Secretary Jay Shah announced a prize money of Rs 125 crore for the players and support staff.

Reports also suggest that Jay Shah wants to bring some changes to the ICC’s functioning, especially after recent controversies surrounding the organization of the T20 World Cup 2024 in the USA and West Indies.