Bajaj is gearing up to launch a two-wheeler that could transform the landscape of affordable and eco-friendly commuting.
The company, renowned for its success in the electric two-wheeler market with the Chetak, is now expanding its horizons to include Liquified Petroleum Gas (LPG), Compressed Natural Gas (CNG), and ethanol-blended fuel options across its portfolio.
Bajaj’s CNG-Cum-Petrol Bike
Bajaj is on the cusp of unveiling a groundbreaking CNG-cum-petrol bike, internally known as the Bruzer E101. In the final stages of development, this innovative two-wheeler is poised to hit the roads within the next six months to a year.
The Aurangabad factory will be the initial production hub, with plans to extend manufacturing to the Pant Nagar facility. The potential brand name under consideration is Platina.
A Vision for a Cleaner Future
Rakesh Sharma, Executive Director at Bajaj Auto, highlighted the company’s commitment to addressing two critical challenges faced by the country: reducing the import bill and minimizing pollution.
Bajaj, a pioneer in adapting three-wheelers to CNG and LPG, now aims to extend this capability to two-wheelers. Sharma emphasized the company’s dedication to cleaner fuels, including the full spectrum of EV, ethanol, LPG, and CNG in both the two-wheeler and three-wheeler segments.
Production Scale-Up
Initially planning to produce 1-1.2 lakh CNG bikes annually, Bajaj has revised its production targets upward to a staggering 2 lakh units and beyond.
While specific details remain guarded, this ambitious move underscores Bajaj’s determination to make a substantial impact on the market.
Government Support and GST Rates
Rajiv Bajaj, MD of Bajaj Auto, hinted at the potential role of the government in making the CNG motorcycle a financially viable option.
He suggested that a CNG-powered Bajaj motorcycle could halve the running costs for riders, making it a compelling choice.
Additionally, lower GST rates are being advocated by carmakers like Maruti Suzuki, signaling a broader industry push for more accessible pricing and enhanced fuel efficiency.
Market Dynamics and Challenges
The entry two-wheeler segment (100-110cc) has faced challenges, with growth slowing to 5 percent, half the pace of the overall two-wheeler segment.
Factors such as higher vehicle prices due to BS6/OBD-2 norms, stringent safety standards, and increased insurance costs have contributed to this decline.
Bajaj’s innovative CNG motorcycle aims to address affordability concerns in this segment, potentially revitalizing its growth.