The much anticipated CNG motorcycle from Bajaj Auto will debut in June this year. This announcement was made via the official Bajaj Auto Ltd page on Facebook by the MD, Rajiv Bajaj. CNG powertrains offer a viable alternative to traditional ICE engines, which rely on costly petrol and diesel fuels, as well as contribute to carbon emissions. In India, escalating fuel prices are a growing concern among consumers. While electric vehicles remain prohibitively expensive for many and face challenges due to the inadequate charging infrastructure, CNG emerges as a promising and affordable alternative. However, its availability is currently limited to major urban centres where the necessary infrastructure exists. Notably, there are currently no two-wheelers equipped with CNG engines, but this may soon change.
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Bajaj CNG Motorcycle to Debut in June
The Facebook post from Bajaj Auto Ltd read, “Bajaj Auto Ltd is poised to launch the world’s first compressed natural gas (CNG)-powered motorcycle in the next quarter, as shared by our Managing Director Rajiv Bajaj. This announcement precedes the previously anticipated 2025 launch.” Hence, the CNG motorcycle will be here in just a couple of months from now. This is in line with the latest news of Bajaj Auto trademarking four names in the last few weeks. These include – Glider, Marathon, Trekker and Freedom. While we don’t know the specifics of these bikes, it can be assumed that at least two of these could be used for the CNG powertrain-powered bikes.
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The CT100 or Platina could be the initial models to put this theory to the test. It’s logical to conduct trials on motorcycles within the 100-110cc range, as this segment typically prioritizes fuel efficiency and operating costs. Moreover, entry-level motorcycles are better positioned to absorb any price hikes compared to high-performance bikes. Additionally, it’s common knowledge that CNG vehicles generally deliver lower power and torque outputs than their petrol counterparts, making CNG less feasible for performance bikes initially. Furthermore, Bajaj is also considering experimentation with LPG and ethanol-based powertrains, while already offering the electric Chetak in our market.
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Bajaj Seeking Tax Relaxation
Bajaj and several other automakers are persistently urging the government to lower taxes on CNG-fueled vehicles. Their rationale is centred on the development of increasingly fuel-efficient and environmentally friendly automobiles. Therefore, governmental support for such powertrains would be welcomed. It’s worth noting that the government already provides significant subsidies and incentives to encourage widespread adoption of EVs, aiming to decrease crude oil imports and foster eco-friendly transportation solutions with sustainability at the forefront. Consequently, reduced taxes on vehicles powered by alternative fuel sources could stimulate demand for these automobiles.
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Author’s Note
We recognize the imperative to transition away from petrol and diesel powertrains. Automotive companies worldwide are unveiling ambitious strategies to achieve carbon neutrality by the end of the next decade. While electric vehicles appear to be the predominant path forward, there is a plethora of alternative fuel options available, such as hybrid, CNG, LPG, ethanol, and more. Therefore, it would be intriguing to observe whether these alternatives can serve as stepping stones toward full electrification.
