Hello, I want to convert my BMW X1 petrol model (2011) into an electric vehicle. Please suggest the best EV conversion kit and a reliable company that can carry out the installation. Thanks.

Autocar India

•7w

Converting a petrol car to an electric one is a complex process that requires a lot of engineering and expertise, and it will be very expensive to do so. It is not as simple as just swapping out the engine for an electric motor.

The process involves removing the engine, fuel tank, exhaust system, and other components and replacing them with an electric motor, batteries, and other components. Even after all this, the car's wiring, suspension, and other systems need to be modified to work with and accommodate the new powertrain.

Basically its as good as re-engineering the entire car, and frankly, no one can do this reliably at this point. Thus, we would not recommend a conversion, especially so on a car that is complex and advanced like the BMW X1. Plus, there is also the legality of the car to consider, as the registration details would not match. You should trade in your X1 for the new iX1, as BMW will certainly have some exchange offers to make.

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Sai

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I own a Skoda Rapid diesel automatic and am considering upgrading my tyres from 195/55 R16 to 205/55 R16. My driving is mostly on highways.

Autocar India

•2d

For mostly highway driving in a Skoda Rapid diesel automatic, 205/55 R16 tyres suit your use better than 195/55 R16.You get more grip and a steadier feel at high speed because the tyre is wider, so the car tracks straight with less fuss on the highway and has stronger braking in dry conditions. The sidewall is a touch taller, too, so it takes small bumps and joints a bit better and gives your alloys a little more protection on rough patches. With the diesel’s strong pull, the wider tyre also puts power down more cleanly when you speed up to overtake.There are a few trade-offs. Steering will feel a bit heavier at low speeds and when parking. You may see a small drop in mileage. Tyre noise can vary slightly by brand. The overall diameter increases by about 2%, so there is that much error in the speedo reading. Both sizes fit the stock 16-inch Rapid alloy (usually 6.5J), but do a quick check with full lock and a full load after fitment to ensure there is no fouling. If you care more about light steering and slightly better mileage, the 195/55 R16 is the safer, lighter-feel choice. But for mostly highway use, the 205/55 R16 will make your Rapid feel more confident and comfortable at speed.

Karthik

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I am planning to buy a 2019 Fiat Linea 125S T-Jet, but I am concerned about whether it is compatible with E20 petrol. The car I test drove was neatly maintained. Since only E20 petrol is available, do I need regular servicing and change its spare parts? Also, please suggest if this is a good option or provide a better alternative.

Autocar India

•6m

A 2019 Fiat Linea 125s T-Jet is fundamentally designed for E10, but most manufacturers engineer a safety margin, so many components can comfortably tolerate up to around E15. Running it on E20 is unlikely to cause any immediate or catastrophic damage, but over time the higher ethanol content can accelerate wear of rubber hoses, seals, plastic parts and some metal components, so you may need to replace these a bit earlier than usual.Given you’ve test-driven the Fiat car and it’s neatly maintained, you can certainly consider it if you go in with your eyes open. The key is to be a bit more proactive with preventive maintenance:Regularly inspect fuel lines, hoses and seals, and replace them at the first sign of swelling, cracking or seepage.Avoid long periods of inactivity with fuel sitting in the tank, as ethanol absorbs moisture and can promote corrosion.The bigger, non-negotiable concern is parts support. Fiat has exited the market, and while Linea spare parts are still available through independent suppliers and online platforms, they will never be as easy or as quick to source as those for a current mass-market sedan. The 125s T-Jet is also a relatively rare variant, so engine-specific bits may require patience.If your trusted garage can confidently arrange parts for routine wear-and-tear and occasional bigger jobs, then the Linea T-Jet remains a very satisfying, enthusiast-friendly choice. If they’re hesitant about spares, it’s wiser to look at a more common, current model that’s officially E20-compatible.

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I am confused between the 7XO and Safari. I took the test drive of both and loved the rugged suspension setup of the Safari, but I also liked the easy driving nature and dynamics of the 7XO.

Autocar India

•36m

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