Bajaj Auto, the Indian two-wheeler giant, is planning to launch its first CNG-powered motorcycle in 2025, following the success of its CNG three-wheelers. The company aims to offer an affordable and eco-friendly alternative to petrol bikes, with lower running costs and emissions.
Why CNG bikes?
According to Rajiv Bajaj, the CEO of Bajaj Auto, there are no CNG two-wheelers available anywhere in the world, and the company wants to pioneer this segment in India. He said that a CNG bike could halve the running costs of a petrol bike, with a little help from the government .
Bajaj Auto has already established itself as a leader in the CNG three-wheeler market, with a 90 percent share in the passenger segment. The company has collaborated with public sector units to develop and promote CNG technology for three-wheelers, which are widely used as taxis and delivery vehicles in India.
How will it work?
The company has filed a patent for a CNG-cum-petrol bike, which will have a specially designed frame to accommodate a CNG tank and a smaller petrol tank. The bike will be able to switch between the two fuels, depending on the availability and preference of the rider.
The first CNG bike from Bajaj Auto is expected to be a 110cc model, based on the popular Platina brand. The power figures are not known yet, but the focus will be on efficiency and performance. The bike will be produced at the company’s Aurangabad and Pant Nagar facilities, with an initial capacity of 2 lakh units per annum.
What are the challenges?
The main challenge for launching a CNG bike in India is the lack of infrastructure and policy support. Currently, there are only about 1,800 CNG stations in India, mostly concentrated in urban areas. The government needs to expand the CNG network and provide incentives for CNG vehicles, such as lower taxes and subsidies .
Another challenge is the safety and durability of the CNG tank and fittings, which need to withstand high pressure and temperature. The company will have to ensure that the CNG bike meets all the regulatory and quality standards, as well as customer expectations.
What are the benefits?
The benefits of a CNG bike are manifold, both for the environment and the economy. A CNG bike will emit less carbon dioxide, nitrogen oxide, and particulate matter than a petrol bike, reducing air pollution and greenhouse gas emissions. A CNG bike will also consume less foreign exchange than a petrol bike, saving on import bills and enhancing energy security .
A CNG bike will also benefit the customers, who will enjoy lower fuel costs and maintenance expenses. A CNG bike will also offer better performance than an electric bike, with higher range and speed. A CNG bike will also be more accessible than an electric bike, with lower upfront cost and easier availability .
Conclusion
Bajaj Auto is set to revolutionize the two-wheeler market with its upcoming CNG bike, which will offer an affordable and eco-friendly alternative to petrol bikes. The company is leveraging its expertise in CNG technology and its strong brand image to create a new segment in India. The company hopes to launch its first CNG bike by 2025, subject to government support and customer acceptance.