TVS recently dropped a bombshell with the launch of the updated Apache RTR 200 4V. It is worth noting that TVS gave the Apache RTR 200 4V a thorough makeover, not too long ago. This goes on to show that TVS is one such company which actually believes in evolution and bestows its two-wheelers with necessary updates, rather than just playing around with different colour schemes and body graphics. It looks like TVS is readying another weapon to unleash on its rivals and it is none other than the Zeppelin.
More details
The TVS Zeppelin, despite being a concept which was showcased two years ago at the 2018 Auto Expo, has managed to stay popular. Trademark registration data reveals that TVS has received approval for its Zepplin R motorcycle.
At the time when the concept was showcased, it was named ‘Zeppelin’ but the trademark details reveal that the ‘e’ has been dropped and now it’s just ‘Zepplin’. The upcoming motorcycle also gets an additional ‘R’.
Powertrain
The concept which was showcased at the 2018 Auto Expo featured a 220cc engine coupled with a 1200W regenerative assist motor with 48V Li-ION battery. Though it’s highly unlikely that TVS will develop a new hybrid engine for the Zeppelin when they already have a host of engine options available in their portfolio. They could swap in the same 197.5cc oil-cooled engine found on the RTR 200 4V which is good for 20.5 ps @ 8500 rpm. Like mentioned above, TVS is also planning to launch another motorcycle based on the 310 platform. Although we think this will be a different motorcycle altogether, we won’t be surprised to see the same motor power the Zeppelin.
Features and specifications
TVS pays special attention when it comes to designing instrument clusters of their motorcycles. They understand that instrument clusters loaded with features and smartphone app compatibility are the order of the day! It would be safe to assume that TVS will leave no holds barred in designing the Zeppelin’s instrument cluster. It could host the same connectivity features found on the Apache RR 310 too! When they can pull it off with the Ntorq, they might as well do it with the Zeppelin too, right?
Targeted at the new-age long-distance rider, TVS Zeppelin concept was a sleek metal-bodied cruiser in a striking shade of rustic brown. It featured some premium cycle parts too including front USD forks and a rear mono-shock. The same suspension setup could make its way to the production version too. The concept also boasted of an integrated HD Action camera to capture your riding adventures on the go. TVS might not include the latter but they have never shied away from dressing their motorcycles with premium cycle parts. That shouldn’t change with the Zeppelin either.
Finally a TVS cruiser?
Part of the reason why it garnered so much attention at the 2018 Auto expo and still manages to do so is that TVS currently has no cruiser in their portfolio. The TVS Zeppelin came out as a new milestone in the world of cruising, where power cruising and a minimalist design blend seamlessly with cutting-edge technology. The riding posture of the TVS Zeppelin concept was aggressive yet comfortable, with a two-up seat, lowered bars and feet forward highway pegs. If TVS decides to put the Zeppelin into production, it could manage to make a dent in the astronomical sales figures of Royal Enfield.
Also read: 2021 TVS Apache RTR 200 4V With Ride Modes – All You Need to Know
