Bajaj Auto Set To Launch World's First CNG Bike, Freedom 125, In Pune

Bajaj Auto is set to launch the world's first CNG bike at a Pune event. Union Minister Nitin Gadkari is expected to attend. 

The bike, likely named Freedom 125, will feature separate switches for petrol and CNG. It was previously speculated to be named 'Bruzer'.

The company aims to provide an affordable CNG bike to value-conscious customers. 

According to the company's MD, CNG bikes reduce emissions significantly and can double mileage or halve the cost of fuel.

The bike is expected to be affordable, targeting customers with monthly earnings of Rs 30,000-40,000. 

Analysts predict it could be pricier. It may cost about Rs 10000-12,000 more than petrol bikes but Bajaj believes the cost to be recovered from less fuel spending. 

Bajaj also plans to export the CNG bikes to Bangladesh, Egypt, and other countries.

Why CNG bikes?

They started working on alternative fuel options such as LPG, CNG, and ethanol blends to reduce running costs and the environmental impact caused by petrol bikes.

Earlier reports said Bajaj might use the Platina name for this CNG bike.

The demand for CNG has risen due to increasing fuel costs and better efficiency. 

Possible CNG Bike Features:

The upcoming Bajaj CNG bike may feature a 'sloper engine' on a double cradle frame. 

CNG bikes are expected to have a 110-150 cc engine with the option to run on both petrol and CNG. It will also come with a 5-speed gearbox.

According to a report, the CNG tank in the Bajaj CNG bike will be integrated into the structure of the bike. This setup will provide more protection for the CNG tank. The petrol tank will remain in its standard position. The capacity of the petrol fuel tank can be the same as that of a petrol bike.

Fuel Cost Reduction:

The new Bajaj Auto CNG bike can reduce operating and fuel costs by 50-65%. Interestingly, if the CNG runs out one can switch the bike to run on its backup small petrol tank. So, the new Bajaj bike can be launched in two variants.