A prototype of the Volkswagen Tukan, in the single-cab version, was spotted undergoing tests in São Paulo. During these tests, the camouflaged vehicle circulated alongside units of the Fiat Strada, which the manufacturer used as a reference to evaluate dynamic development and load capacity.
The choice of the Fiat Strada as a comparison parameter reinforces the objective of the new German pickup, which will be launched in 2027 to replace the Saveiro. Unlike the Saveiro, which still uses the old Gol architecture, the Tukan is the result of an entirely new project.
The entry-level version, intended for fleet use and daily heavy-duty work, was designed to compete directly in the segment dominated by the Strada, which has held the title of best-selling vehicle in the country for five years.
According to information gathered by Quatro Rodas, the Tukan will stop using a torsion beam at the rear, adopting a setup with a rigid axle and leaf springs, a solution identical to that used by the Italian competitor. This mechanical change aims to increase operational capacity and durability under severe conditions, although it may compromise dynamic behavior when the bed is empty in urban areas, a common calculation in Brazilian work trucks.
The vehicle will be produced in São José dos Pinhais, Paraná, at the same factory where the T-Cross is assembled, and will be built on the MQB Hybrid platform, which is an evolution of the MQB-A0 base, allowing the Tukan to receive electrified powertrains.
For the work-focused versions, the manufacturer plans to implement the simple 1.6 16V engine, coupled with a manual transmission. Intermediate configurations will use the 1.0 170 TSI turbo flex engine, generating up to 116 hp and 16.8 kgfm, combined with a six-speed automatic transmission. The top trims should feature the 1.5 TSI flex engine with a 48V mild hybrid system (MHEV), aiming to optimize fuel consumption and provide additional power during acceleration, putting the Tukan in competition with better-equipped models from the Chevrolet Montana and Fiat Toro.
In terms of aesthetics, the Tukan incorporates SUV elements from the brand. The front features a raised hood and a grille integrated with the headlights, inspired by the Nivus and Taos models. Laterally, it has a high beltline to suggest greater stature. At the rear, the taillights display an 'E'-shaped light signature, connected by a horizontal strip across the top of the bed cover, and the model name will be embossed on the cargo compartment panel, echoing a characteristic of the second generation of the internationally sold Amarok.
Internally, the pickup should follow the safety and connectivity standard of the current Volkswagen line, including multimedia systems and driver assistance packages in the most expensive variants. However, in the commercial single-cab editions, priority will be given to the resistance of the dashboard and upholstery materials, as well as maintenance cost.
The name Tukan was officially confirmed by Volkswagen in February, during an event held at the CBF headquarters in Rio de Janeiro. The choice refers to the toucan, aligning with the brand's strategy of naming its launches with references to Brazilian fauna. Previously, the manufacturer had registered options such as Acron, Airon, Arena, and Tagro with the INPI.
The official launch is scheduled for 2027, coinciding with the 45th anniversary of the Saveiro in the market. Volkswagen intends to carry out a gradual promotion through public appearances in the coming months, presenting a versatile line that meets the needs of the rural producer requiring load capacity as well as the urban consumer who uses the pickup on weekends.
The electric company Hero MotoCorp, under the mobility brand Vida, has introduced a new scooter. Expanding its Vida VX portfolio, the company has launched the VX2 Go FB model. This scooter is equipped with a 3.1 kWh battery and will be sold alongside the already available VX2 Go.
The main difference between the two models lies in the battery type: one has a removable battery, while the other has a fixed one. The new version, VX2 Go FB, comes with a fixed battery, meaning it cannot be removed for charging. However, the scooter can be charged directly via a socket.
The price of the Vida VX2 Go FB model is 1.13 lakh rupees at the showroom in New Delhi. According to Vida, the goal of launching this variant is to provide consumers with more choice by offering options with both fixed and removable batteries.
Buyers can independently choose the charging solution, usage, and scooter model. The VX2 Go FB will feature a 3.1 kWh battery and a claimed range of 128 kilometers according to the IDC cycle. It is equipped with a 6 kW electric motor mounted on a swivel mount and can reach a maximum speed of 70 kilometers per hour.
The Vida scooter supports DC fast charging. Hero claims that charging from 0 to 80 percent will take only 65 minutes. At a rate of 8 rupees per unit, charging the 3.1 kWh battery will cost less than 30 rupees. The scooter is fitted with a 4.3-inch LCD information display that supports smartphone connectivity and step-by-step navigation.
The model also includes 27.2 liters of storage space under the seat and a single seat. With the introduction of fixed battery options, the VX2 line will have five different configurations, including four battery pack variants. The smallest battery has a capacity of 2.2 kWh and provides a range of 93 kilometers, while the largest battery at 4.4 kWh offers a claimed range of 187 kilometers.
According to the principles of Vastu Shastra, vegetation has a profound influence on a person's life and financial status. Although the Money Plant is often used as a symbol of beauty and prosperity in every home, improper placement or violation of certain rules can lead to significant economic losses instead of benefits.
Vastu experts assert that there are strict and precise rules for placing a Money Plant, adherence to which promotes an increase in money flow and maintains well-being in the home. These rules allow for positive changes in life.
According to Vastu Shastra, the ideal place to put a Money Plant is the southeast corner (Agnieya Kona). This sector is associated with the deity Ganesha and the planet Venus, which is considered the source of wealth and prosperity. Placing the plant in this area ensures a flow of positive energy and helps overcome financial difficulties.
Conversely, it is strictly forbidden to place the Money Plant in the northeast corner (Ishan Kona), as this direction is associated with Jupiter. The combination of Venus and Jupiter in this location may prove unfavorable.
Firstly, the shoots and vines of the Money Plant must never touch the ground; they should be supported or tied so that they grow upwards. Upward growth symbolizes progress and development, whereas downward spread indicates financial decline.
Secondly, the plant should not be placed outside the house, such as near the main entrance or on a balcony where it can be seen by strangers. According to Vastu, it is better to keep the Money Plant hidden inside the dwelling to ensure financial prosperity.
Thirdly, if the leaves of the plant begin to yellow or dry out, they should be immediately cut off with scissors and separated. Dry or rotten leaves create a negative atmosphere and Vastu defects in the home.
Finally, it is believed that on Fridays, one should not give away their Money Plant to anyone, nor should one bring it from someone else's house. Such actions can weaken your planet Venus, increasing the risk of financial loss.
In the modern world, the use of UPI has become ubiquitous, from small tea stalls to large stores, gradually reducing the need for cash. However, the question arises whether using UPI leads to increased spending from one's pocket.
To answer this question, a woman from Delhi conducted a unique experiment. She completely stopped using UPI and started paying exclusively with cash for about two and a half months. The results of this experience sparked active discussions on social media.
The content creator from Delhi, Sadfa, reported on social media that for about two and a half months, she did not make a single payment through UPI. All her daily expenses were made in cash. Her goal was to understand the real difference between paying via digital payments and paying with cash. Initially, it was a bit difficult for her because most stores now accept payment directly through UPI, but over time, she began to notice clear changes in her behavior.
Sadfa noted that previously, paying via UPI was very simple: just take out your phone, scan the QR code, and the money was deducted in seconds. Often, she didn't even realize the small expenses. However, when she started paying with cash, she had to open her wallet, take out bills, and count change every time. This forced her to be aware of every expense. As a result, she significantly reduced the purchase of non-essential items. According to her, when money is visible before your eyes, a person thinks twice before making a purchase.
The woman said that previously, many small transactions via UPI occurred in one day. Only at the end of the month, while reviewing her bank statement, did she realize how much money had been spent. When using cash, she set a daily spending limit in advance. When the money in her wallet started running out, she postponed other purchases. Thanks to this, her budget became more controlled, and savings began to grow.
After the woman's video went viral, thousands of people shared their opinions. Many users wrote that they experienced the same thing: due to the simplicity of UPI payments, it is easy to spend money, and the line between necessity and desire blurs. Nevertheless, some people also pointed out that relying entirely on cash is not easy under current conditions, as digital payments are the most convenient option for online shopping, food delivery, taxi booking, and other services.
A financial expert believes that UPI itself is not the problem; it is a safe and fast payment system. However, the simple procedure of digital payments can prompt many people to spend money without proper consideration. Therefore, if you feel your expenses are rising, it is recommended to set a monthly budget and monitor your banking operations. If necessary, cash should be used for part of the expenses to better control your finances.
This woman from Delhi's experience demonstrates that sometimes the way of saving money is even more important than the process of earning it. UPI has certainly simplified life, but if you do not monitor your spending, even small payments can turn into a large bill at the end of the month. Consequently, there is no need to abandon UPI; what is important is to use this digital opportunity wisely. To control spending, it is necessary to create a budget, track transactions, and use cash where necessary.
