GPS Toll Collection News & Top Stories

How It Works: Toll Plazas Will Be Replaced with a Satellite-Based Toll Collection System

Before FASTags were launched in 2014, highway tolls were only collected in cash or with cards more than ten years ago. FASTags, which are only required for every single automobile and toll booth starting in January 2021, expedited and improved the toll payment procedure. But, with a new satellite-based toll-collecting system, Union Minister Nitin Gadkari intends to render FASTags and even toll plazas entirely obsolete. This in-depth study will teach you more about this space-age apparatus and its operation.

What Is Toll Collection Based on GPS?

The toll collection plaza, a sizable building that was constructed at great expense and needs a lot of labor to run properly, was the usual location for paying your fees for using a toll road and/or highway. Traffic jams still occur even with FASTag since cars still have to slow down significantly to be scanned through for the toll payment, especially for large commercial vehicles. That being said, the GPS-based toll-collecting system measures the distance your automobile travels using tracking devices and satellites and charges you a toll according to the distance you drive.

How Will It Work

It will take several years for all cars to be fitted with the technology, and the adoption of this new approach won’t be simple. That being said, this is the procedure that will operate if it is carried out properly.

  • On-board units, or OBUs, which serve as tracking devices for the toll collection system, must be installed in the vehicles.
  • When traveling on freeways and highways, the OBU will track your vehicle’s coordinates. It will then communicate those data with the satellite to determine how far you have traveled.
  • The Global Navigation Satellite System (GNSS), which is used by the GPS (Global Positioning System) to function, will help to maintain the precision of the distance calculation in this system.
  • Additionally, cameras will be positioned along these roadways to verify that the distance is being estimated accurately by comparing the vehicle’s coordinates with the captured image. The camera can also assist in identifying which vehicles lack an OBU or may have one disabled by comparing the license plates to data from toll collection and satellite monitoring.
  • Initially, just a small number of the nation’s main expressways and highways will have this toll collection system in place.

The OBUs are crucial to this system, just as much as the satellites and the tracking software. However, it needs to be installed externally because cars do not currently have it. Information regarding where and how to obtain these OBUs is currently unavailable, however, it may work similarly to how FASTags worked when they first came out. We anticipate that the procedure will go like this.

  • These OBUs will be sold via government websites, much like FASTags. To order one, simply input your car’s registration number and complete a KYC.
  • You must link the OBU to your bank account after applying.
  • Car manufacturers may simply begin selling their vehicles with OBUs pre-installed at the time of delivery following the installation of this toll collection system, which you can then connect to your bank account.
  • Similar to FASTags, OBUs may be sold by banks and private businesses.
  • Your associated bank account will be automatically debited from the toll amount after the OBU is installed in the car, based on the distance traveled.

GPS Toll Collection Benefits

  • Because the tracking device’s data is communicated directly with the satellite in this process, toll plazas won’t be necessary, making the travel even more convenient and saving you the time you would have to spend standing in line.
  • The fact that customers only pay for the portion of the highways they utilize is another benefit of this approach. At the moment, it can be challenging to keep an eye on the entry and exit points of toll highways and roads, and you may be required to pay for the entire distance between toll plazas. These expenses would be reduced by the GPS-based system, which is particularly beneficial for cross-country business commutes.

Will It Work In India?

Several nations, including Germany and Singapore, have already used the GPS-based toll collection system, so it is not completely novel. India’s largest challenge is the huge number of roads this system has to monitor and the diverse range of cars on them. To cut costs, the nation is already quite skilled at converting to digital transactions and new technology.

To accomplish this, though, the existing FASTag-based infrastructure will need to be dismantled and new infrastructure will need to be built, which will be costly and take time. The expense of upgrading the entire infrastructure may be borne by the user in the form of higher toll plazas.

For now, India seems to be keeping up with the latest advancements in roadway technologies that could simplify the procedure, such as the GPS-based toll collection system. As the FASTags have shown, adoption and implementation will not be simple. In the end, we estimate that it will take the government ten years to implement it nationwide if they get to work on it right away.

Read More On – Kia Sonet HTE (O) And HTK (O) Variants Starts At Rs 8.19 Lakh

Kia Sonet HTE (O) News & Top Stories

The price of the newly released Kia Sonet HTE (O) and HTK (O) variants starts at Rs 8.19 lakh

  • HTE (O) and HTK (O), two new Sonet variations, are based on the HTK and HTE trims, respectively.
  • The price range for the HTE (O) from Kia is Rs 8.19 lakh to Rs 10 lakh.
  • The price range for the HTK (O) is Rs 9.25 lakh to Rs 10.85 lakh.
  • There is a choice of gasoline and diesel engines available for both new models, but only with a manual shifter.
  • The sunroof and sunglass holder from the HTK version that comes next are included in the HTE (O).
  • With a sunroof, automated air conditioning, linked LED taillights, and a rear defogger, Kia is selling the Sonet HTK (O).

The HTE (O) and HTK (O), two new lower-spec variants of the Kia Sonet based on the HTE and HTK trims, respectively, have just been released. There is a choice of gasoline and diesel engines available for both of the new (O) models.

Variant-wise Prices

New VariantVariant It’s Based OnDifference
Petrol
HTE (O) – Rs 8.19 lakhHTE – Rs 7.99 lakh+Rs 20,000
HTK (O) – Rs 9.25 lakhHTK – Rs 8.89 lakh+Rs 36,000
Diesel
HTE (O) – Rs 10 lakhHTE – Rs 9.80 lakh+Rs 20,000
HTK (O) – Rs 10.85 lakhHTK – Rs 10.50 lakh+Rs 35,000

The newest (O) variants are priced up to Rs 36,000 more than the HTE and HTK, as can be seen in the above table.

New Characteristics And Variants

At the previously mentioned price premium, Kia is providing the new variations with a few extra goodies above their respective donor grades. What’s new for each variety will be examined now:

New Variants And Features

  • HTE (O): Sunroof and sunglass holder

base-spec

  • HTK (O): Rear defogger, auto air conditioning, linked LED taillights, and sunroof

Features like front power windows, a semi-digital instrument cluster, manually adjustable ORVMs, and a manual air conditioner with rear vents are already included in the base-spec HTE. On the other hand, the HTK trim comes with all four power windows, an 8-inch touchscreen, a 6-speaker sound system, keyless entry, and a driver seat that can be adjusted in height. Six airbags, electronic stability control (ESC), and a tire pressure monitoring system (TPMS) are among the safety features that both share. Front parking sensors are also included with the HTK version.

Engine-gearbox Configurations

The following powertrain options are available for the new models:

Specification1.2-litre N/A Petrol1.5-litre Diesel
Power83 PS116 PS
Torque115 Nm250 Nm
Transmission5-speed MT6-speed MT

The sub-4m SUV’s higher-spec diesel models also come with a 6-speed iMT (manual without a clutch pedal) and 6-speed automatic transmission. Kia also sells the higher-end Sonet models, which have a 1-liter turbo-petrol engine producing 120 PS and a 6- or 7-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission (DCT). 

Kia Sonet Competitors

Maruti Brezza, Hyundai Venue, Mahindra XUV300, Tata Nexon, Renault Kiger, Nissan Magnite, and the soon-to-be Skoda sub-4m SUV are all competitors of the Kia Sonet. It also acts as a substitute for sub-4 million dollar crossover SUVs, like the upcoming Toyota Taisor and the Maruti Fronx.

Also Read: 2024 Kia Seltos 

Kia Seltos News & Top Stories

2024 Kia Seltos Will Be Released With Lower-Cost Automatic Transmission Models

  • The MY2024 Kia Seltos debuted with numerous improvements but no additional features.
  • The HTK Plus variant now has an automatic gearbox, which lowers the price by Rs 1.3 lakh.
  • Additional color options were added to the entry-level HTE models.
  • The HTK and HTK Plus versions have been updated with new features from higher variations.

Numerous model changes have been made to the Kia Seltos for 2024, most likely in response to input from the market after the facelifted model was introduced in July 2023. The most significant modification is the addition of automatic gearbox options to the mid-spec HTK Plus model, which lowers the price by over a lakh. In addition, Kia has improved the Seltos’ equipment list and color choices, making it a more desirable vehicle overall.

Kia Seltos 2024: New Automatic Models

Previously, the Seltos automated option was available starting with the HTX model. As per Kia, the HTK Plus is the most favored version of the Seltos small SUV; it is available solely with the diesel-iMT, petrol-manual, diesel-manual, and turbo-petrol iMT drivetrains.

The 1.5-liter gasoline CVT and 1. 5-liter diesel AT powertrain options, which were previously exclusive to the HTK version, have now been added to Kia’s lower-spec HTK Plus trim. The automated option in the Seltos is now up to Rs 1.3 lakh less expensive as a result. The most popular Seltos variation will become even more appealing with this update.

Here are the prices for the new variant:

Engine Option HTXHTK PlusDifference
1.5-litre Petrol CVTRs 16.72 lakhRs 15.42 lakhRs 1.3 lakh
1.5-litre Diesel ATRs 18.22 lakhRs 16.92 lakhRs 1.3 lakh

2024 Kia Seltos: Updated Features

The Kia Seltos‘ feature set has been reorganized, with additional amenities from the higher variants being available with the mid-spec model and up. The variants that receive the greatest number of additions are HTK and HTK Plus. The table below contains all the information on these modifications.

Variants New Features Introduced
HTK
  • LED DRLs

  • Keyless entry with push-button start

  • Remote engine start/stop

  • Connected LED tail lamps

HTK+
  • LED fog lamps

  • LED reading lamps

  • Drive / Traction modes (AT only)

  • Paddle shifters (AT only)

  • Panoramic sunroof

From HTX Onwards
  • All four power windows with auto up/down functionality

The Kia Seltos‘ feature set has been reorganized, with additional amenities from the higher variants being available with the mid-spec model and up. The variants that receive the greatest number of additions are HTK and HTK Plus. The table below contains all the information on these modifications.

2024 Kia Seltos: Colour Options Rejigged 

Before, Sparkling Silver and Clear White were the only colors available for the Kia Seltos base model. To enhance its appeal, the base HTE and mid-spec HTK Plus models now come in a greater number of Seltos colorways, which are detailed in the table below:

VariantsNew Colours
HTE
  • Aurora Black Pearl

  • Gravity Grey

  • Intense Red

  • Pewter Olive

  • Imperial Blue

HTK+
  • Aurora Black Pearl

Kia Seltos 2024: Competitors

2024 Kia Seltos: Rivals

The Kia Seltos package’s overall appeal is increased by these upgrades. See what we thought of the redesigned small SUV in our detailed first-drive review. The Hyundai Creta, Honda Elevate, Maruti Suzuki Grand Vitara, Volkswagen Taigun, Skoda Kushaq, and MG Astor are the competing vehicles of the 2024 Kia Seltos.

Read More On: Honda Amaze, Elevate, And City Prices Increased

News & Top Stories

Honda Amaze, Elevate, and City Prices Increased; Elevate and City Come With Six Airbags Normally

  • Honda updated the variant list for the Amaze and City Hybrid while making revisions to the Elevate and City’s features based on variants.
  • The current price range for the Honda Elevate SUV (ex-showroom) is Rs 11.91 lakh to Rs 16.43 lakh.
  • The current pricing range for the Honda City sedan, ex-showroom, is Rs 12.08 lakh to Rs 16.35 lakh.
  • The Honda City hybrid now only comes in the top variant, priced at Rs 20.55 lakh (ex-showroom), and does not include the entry-level V variant.
  • The entry-level Honda Amaze is no longer available; it now starts at Rs 7.93 lakh (ex-showroom).

Beginning with the new fiscal year, all Honda vehicles will now have more expensive entry-level prices. Furthermore, extra airbags are now standard on the Honda Elevate and Honda City, and the Honda Amaze safety package has received a minor update. Let’s examine the updated costs and feature sets for each model in more depth.

Prices & Updates for New Honda Features

Honda Elevate

VariantNew PriceOld PriceDifference
SVRs 11.91 lakhRs 11.58 lakhRs 33,000
VRs 12.71 lakhRs 12.31 lakhRs 40,000
VXRs 14.10 lakhRs 13.71 lakhRs 40,000
ZXRs 15.41 lakhRs 15.10 lakhRs 31,000
Automatic
V  CVTRs 13.71 lakhRs 13.41 lakhRs 30,000
VX CVTRs 15.10 lakhRs 14.80 lakhRs 30,000
ZX CVTRs 16.43 lakhRs 16.20 lakhRs 23,000

The Elevate now prices as much as Rs 40,000 more. It now shares the top price for the entry-level compact SUV model with the Skoda Kushaq.

Six airbags are now standard on the small SUV; they were formerly exclusive to the top ZX model. Additional upgrades to its features include headrest adjustments for each of the five seats and a seatbelt reminder. The semi-digital instrument cluster with a 7-inch TFT and the front visors with a vanity mirror and lid are now standard features on variants. Silver paint will now be applied on the auto climate controls for temperature and fan speed as well as the front AC vent knob.

Honda City

VariantNew PriceOld PriceDifference
SVRs 12.08 lakhRs 11.71 lakhRs 37,000
VRs 12.85 lakhRs 12.59 lakhRs 26,000
VXRs 13.92 lakhRs 13.71 lakhRs 21,000
ZXRs 15.10 lakhRs 14.94 lakhRs 16,000
Automatic
V CVTRs 14.10 lakhRs 13.84 lakhRs 26,000
VX CVTRs 15.17 lakhRs 14.96 lakhRs 21,000
ZX CVTRs 16.35 lakhRs 16.19 lakhRs 16,000

Honda has increased the City sedan’s price by up to Rs 37,000.

In addition, it now comes with seatbelt reminders for all five seats and six airbags as standard, which were previously only available on VX and above models. The VX model now has an 8-speaker sound system and a rear sunshade, while the base model receives a 4.2-inch MID in the gauge cluster.

It appears that limited demand has forced Honda to withdraw the entry-level City Hybrid model, or it soon will. The only difference between these two examples is that all five seats now have seatbelt reminders.

Honda Amaze

VariantNew PriceOld PriceDifference
EN.A.Rs 7.16 lakhN.A.
SRs 7.93 lakhRs 7.84 lakhRs 11,000
VXRs 9.04 lakhRs 8.95 lakhRs 9,000
Automatic
SRs 8.83 lakhRs 8.73 lakhRs 10,000
VXRs 9.86 lakhRs 9.77 lakhRs 9,000

The base Honda Amaze’s price has gone up by as much as Rs 11,000 now. Additionally, all five of the seats now have seatbelt reminders. It appears that the Amaze’s base model may soon be canceled in this case as well.

Honda Elevate,

Honda City Hybrid

VariantNew PriceOld PriceDifference
VN.A.Rs 18.89 lakhN.A.
ZXRs 20.55 lakhRs 20.39 lakhRs 16,000

It appears that limited demand has forced Honda to withdraw the entry-level City Hybrid model, or it soon will. The only difference between these two examples is that all five seats now have seatbelt reminders.

7 Cars Slated News & Top Stories

7 Cars Scheduled for Release in April 2024

Several new cars are anticipated to go on sale in India as the 2024–2025 fiscal year gets underway, with some of the first releases scheduled for April of this year. This month is predicted to see the release of numerous new vehicles, such as the Toyota Taisor, which is Toyota’s take on the Maruti Fronx, and the fourth-generation Maruti Suzuki Swift. Let’s examine each one in more detail (Release in 7 cars).

Toyota Taisor

Toyota Taisor

The Toyota Taisor, which is based on Maruti Fronx, is the next sub-4 m crossover SUV to hit our market. Anticipate that it will bear the Toyota emblem and have a few minor outward design modifications over the base car. It is anticipated that Toyota would equip it with the same features found on the Fronx, such as a 360-degree camera, six airbags, wireless phone charging, and a 9-inch touchscreen. There should be two different powertrain options available: a 1-liter turbocharged gasoline engine (100 PS/148 Nm) and a 1.2-liter gasoline engine (90 PS/113 Nm). A manual gearbox-equipped CNG powertrain (77.5 PS/98.5 Nm) may also be present. For the 1.2-liter engine, the available transmission options are 5-speed manual, 5-speed automatic, and 6-speed automatic transmission.

Mahindra XUV300 in 2024

2024 Mahindra XUV300

The Mahindra XUV300 is one of the Mahindra SUVs that has been waiting a long time for an update. The facelifted model has been spotted numerous times with revised design components visible, such as new alloy wheels, linked LED taillights, and LED DRLS and headlights. Images from spy cameras within the cabin have shown that it would have two 10.25-inch screens, similar to the XUV400. Advanced driver assistance systems (ADAS) may even be available for the facelifted XUV300 to keep up with competitors in the premium market, such as the Hyundai Venue and Kia Sonet. Mahindra is expected to go with the same powertrain choices seen on the current SUV model, which include a 1.5-liter diesel engine and two turbo-petrol engines (1.2-liter T-GDi and 1.2-liter MPFi, for gasoline direct injection and multi-point fuel injection, respectively).

New Maruti Swift

New Maruti Swift

In its native Japan, the fourth-generation Suzuki Swift has made its debut. The latest hatchback has an updated interior and an evolutionary outward appearance that makes it more angular but recognizable. It has a brand-new 1.2-liter, 3-cylinder Z series petrol engine that produces 82 horsepower and 108 Nm. It can be mated to a CVT or a 5-speed manual transmission. Both gasoline and hybrid Swift models with optional all-wheel drive (AWD) are offered in Japan. These specs, however, can change in India, and the hybrid and AWD models won’t be taken into account. The new Swift has six airbags, blind spot recognition, auto air conditioning, a 360-degree camera, and a 9-inch touchscreen.

Force Gurkha 5-door

Force Gurkha 5-door

The Force Gurkha 5-door off-road SUV is the one that’s most eager to hit the market. After being extensively leaked for the past few years, Force appears to be getting ready for release, as the latest teaser suggests. Compared to the current Gurkha, it boasts a longer wheelbase, an additional set of doors, and other design changes. It will have a three-row seating configuration, most likely with bench seats in the second row and captain seats in the third. Anticipate receiving the same amenities as the 3-door model, such as the dual front airbags, manual AC, and 7-inch touchscreen. The same 2.6-liter diesel engine (90 PS / 250 Nm) that Force currently uses will probably be the Gurkha in its current form. The device will probably be connected to a manual 5-speed gearbox.

Skoda Superb

Force Gurkha 5-door

Having removed the Superb from retail in the first half of 2023, Skoda intends to reintroduce it, although through the completely built-up (CBU) way. The 2-liter turbo-petrol engine in the sedan (190 PS/320 Nm) was the only powerplant available. A 7-speed DCT dual-clutch automatic transmission was fitted to it. To make it a better value for the money, Skoda may even add a few extra creature comforts to the same feature list that it will have at launch. After bringing it here as a fully imported model, Skoda may even limit it as a fully loaded offering. 

The Tata Altroz Racer

Tata Altroz Racer

The Tata Altroz Racer made its debut at the Auto Expo 2023, where it was shown off as a hotter version of the hatchback. More recently, the first Bharat Mobility Global Expo 2024 featured a modified version on display. A 10.25-inch touchscreen, a 7-inch digital driver display, heated seats, and a sunroof are among the amenities available on board. Six airbags, rain-sensing wipers, and a reversing camera make up its safety net. The 1.2-liter turbo-petrol engine from the Nexon, which produces 120 PS and 170 Nm, powers the Altroz Racer Edition underneath the hood. It comes with a 6-speed manual transmission as standard and an automatic transmission option will be available soon.

Volkswagen Taigun GT Plus Sport

Volkswagen Taigun GT Plus Sport

Volkswagen unveiled the GT Plus Sport and GT Line Sport, two new, sportier Taigun SUV models, at a recent event. Both inside and out, it receives cosmetic upgrades. The GT Plus Sport has a black alloy grille and wheels. Additionally, it features red highlights within the interior, red brake calipers, and red “GT” emblems. The larger 1.5-liter turbo-petrol engine is anticipated to be available for the GT Plus Sport, along with a 6-speed manual and a 7-speed DCT. (Release in 7 cars)

We anticipate seeing a handful of these vehicles arrive on our shores around April 2024. What do you think? Which other model do you wish to see released this month in India? Tell us in the comments below.

Also Read: Three Ways India Could See A Rise In The Price Of Hybrids

cars Image News & Top Stories

Three Ways India Could See A Rise In The Price Of Hybrids

Maruti Grand Vitara: To avoid going through the hybrid stage entirely, battery electric vehicles (BEVs) have been the main focus of India’s automotive electrification drive. Nonetheless, in recent years, international manufacturers like Honda, Toyota, and even Maruti—whose technology is derived from Suzuki—have debuted hybrid vehicles in India.

These versions, which come with both electric and gasoline propulsion, are far more expensive than their combustion-engined equivalents. For instance, the price difference between the Maruti Grand Vitara’s petrol and hybrid versions is currently about Rs 3 lakh, but the hybrid model comes with a few more goodies. The premium for the hybrid version of the Honda City car can well surpass Rs 4 lakh.

imag

The absence of government incentives in India has prevented other automakers from investigating hybrid powertrain solutions. However given that hybrids are more popular and preferred over pure-EV counterparts due to their lower operating expenses and somewhat lower initial cost, this powertrain technology may become more accessible in the future. Three possible outcomes are as follows:

Lower Taxes

interior

The Indian government, as previously stated, has not been providing any incentives for strong-hybrid powertrain technology, preferring to concentrate on pure electric vehicle technologies. But according to a recent report, Nitin Gadkari, the Minister of Road Transport and Highways (MoRTH), said that the tax on hybrid cars should be lowered from the present 48 percent GST to 12 percent GST. As opposed to this, EVs are subject to a 5% GST levy.

If implemented, this modification might significantly lower the premium of a hybrid vehicle over a gasoline vehicle, but it would also need the consent of other ministries.

Reduced Material Expenses

According to one of the primary cost models that project EVs’ growing affordability, raw material costs would decrease as EV adoption and demand increase and associated technologies become more efficient. cheaper battery costs should also result in cheaper prices for hybrid models, as the battery pack is one of the most expensive parts of a hybrid. A rise in hybrid vehicle sales may also contribute to a decrease in the price of the metals and minerals used to make battery packs.

Discounted Offers

interior image

While reducing taxes will undoubtedly contribute to hybrid car prices falling, additional financial incentives in the form of discounts may be necessary. To further encourage consumers of new cars to select environmentally friendly choices, these rebates may come from the government or even the car manufacturer. This can include further savings when trading in an outdated gasoline or diesel vehicle for a hybrid one.

These are a few key ways that the most fuel-efficient hybrid cars may see price reductions in the upcoming years. As of right now, the Maruti Grand Vitara, Honda City eHEV, and Toyota Hyryder are the only mass-market strong hybrid vehicles available in India.

Read More On – This Week’s Important Car News (March 25–29): Updates, New Unveils & Teasers, And More