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    Do Not Invest In CNG Bike, Not Worth Your While – Rajiv Bajaj To Rivals

    Nitin Gadkari, Rajiv Bajaj, Rakesh Sharma at the CNG Bike LaunchBajaj has filed multiple patents for its CNG two-wheeler platform, of which, around 3-4 are in final stagesAt the Q&A session of Bajaj Freedom 125 CNG bike launch, the interactions revealed some interesting facts and insights. For example, Rajiv Bajaj revealed how the Freedom CNG bike will challenge the might of Hero MotoCorp in the commuter segment. The Q&A panel also talked about the reasons why a larger CNG tank was not possible.Bajaj Freedom CNG motorcycle patentsResponding to a question about how many patents have been filed for Bajaj Freedom CNG motorcycle, the panel said that multiple patents have been filed. While an exact number was not provided, it was stated that around 3-4 patents are in the final stages. These patents cover various features and functions of the CNG bike. For example, the fuel tank packaging is unique, as there’s a CNG tank as well as a petrol tank.Nitin Gadkari and Rajiv Bajaj at the Freedom CNG launchThe objective was not just to make the dual-fuel system work, but also to ensure optimal safety for users. Bajaj has internally crash tested the Freedom 125 CNG bike, including being completely run over by a 10-ton truck. The bike passed all the tests without any damage to the CNG tank. The pressure gauge remained unchanged, with no leaks detected.Another patent is for the unique ignition system that does not utilize any starter motor. The bike comes to life with just the push of a button. It is also worth noting that Bajaj CNG bike can start directly with CNG fuel. There is no need to start the bike with petrol and later switch to CNG. A third patent is for the automatic switching mechanism between the two fuels. If the CNG tank reaches minimums, the bike will automatically shift to petrol and vice-versa.Bajaj Freedom CNG BikeHeavy investments – Don’t take the CNG routeAdding to the discussion about patents, Rajiv Bajaj said that the company has made significant investments in developing the CNG bike. On a lighter note, he recommended that other OEMs should avoid this segment due to the heavy investments involved. Below is the entire QnA with Rajiv Bajaj at the CNG bike launch, the part where he tells rivals not to invest in CNG bike is from 23:10 mark.[embedded content]Interestingly, there are reports that TVS has started testing the CNG version of its Jupiter 125cc scooter. It is expected to be launched in the next 3-12 months’ time frame.What does NG represent in the bike’s name?Talking about how the bike got the NG suffix in its name (Freedom 125 NG04), Rajiv Bajaj provided the complete details. While using CNG would have made the messaging crystal clear, this name sounded too mechanical. After a lot of research and discussion, the NG name was chosen for the bike. NG directly relates to CNG and it can also refer to the New Generation or Next Generation. It also sounds good, which is why it was finalized.On a funnier note, the company’s CFO pointed out that NG can even relate to Nitin Gadkari. It is Nitin Gadkari who has been making a strong push for greener fuels including CNG. He was present at the launch event and had unveiled the Bajaj Freedom CNG bike. More

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    2025 Bajaj Pulsar ADV Spied Testing Again – Reveals New Details

    Bajaj Pulsar ADV SpiedWhen launched, Bajaj Pulsar ADV is likely to be in a niche and attract a lot of buyers who want a high-riding ADV-styled motorcycleThe new Freedom 125 CNG motorcycle is currently all the rage in India. It has unprecedented popularity and is likely to be the hottest Indian motorcycle in the coming months. However, Bajaj is creating another buzz with an upcoming ADV style Pulsar motorcycle. It has been spotted testing for the second time, revealing new details.Bajaj Pulsar ADV Spied Testing AgainIf we take a look at Bajaj’s portfolio, we can see that the company lacks a proper ADV or even a faux ADV. In a time where ADVs and ADV-styled motorcycles are gaining popularity, Bajaj is diving into the genre too. Not that Bajaj never designed an ADV styled motorcycle.Bajaj Pulsar ADV SpiedThe company offered Pulsar AS series (Adventure Sports), which was discontinued owing to poor sales. Now, Bajaj seems to be at it again. This is the second time Bajaj’s upcoming ADV-styled motorcycle has been spied. The new spy shot is credited to automotive enthusiast Irfan Khan, who spotted it in Lonavala.We can see the bike from its exhaust side, showing interesting details from the side profile. Overall, Bajaj Pulsar ADV spied, looks a lot like Pulsar NS. So, Bajaj might be positioning its upcoming ADV on Pulsar NS platform boasting its tried and tested perimeter frame and the box-section swingarm.Bajaj Pulsar ADV SpiedNotable changes are the new front seat, which is scooped out quite a bit, to offer a low seat height. This is a common practice in high-riding ADVs. Seat is of split design and looks like it offers decent wiggle room. Fuel tank looks large and muscular with beefy tank shrouds. There is no bikini fairing and tall windscreen like Pulsar AS, though.Bajaj Pulsar ADV SpiedTail section looks very similar to Pulsar NS range, packing almost identical tail lights. Grab rail is a single-piece design on this upcoming Pulsar ADV, while NS gets a split design. There is a beak-like element protruding down from the headlight too, lending the whole ADV look.What to expect?Thie upcoming Bajaj Pulsar ADV looks like it has USD telescopic front forks. But the rear disc brakes and skinny tyres suggest that this could be a 125cc motorcycle. So, the beefy appeal from the front suspension area might be due to fork covers, similar to what we saw in Freedom 125 CNG motorcycle. So, RSU telescopic forks with beefy covers are most likely.125cc Pulsars are Bajaj’s best-sellers and sell like hot cakes when compared to other motorcycles. So, expanding this category further to include an ADV-style motorcycle might prove to be a good decision. LED headlights, LED tail lights, a fully digital instrument cluster with Bluetooth support, USB charging port, rear mono-shock suspension setup, 17-inch alloys at both ends and front disc brake are some of the features and componentry.Powertrains-wise, upcoming Bajaj Pulsar ADV is likely to come equipped with a similar setup as Pulsar NS125. So, around 12 PS of peak power, 11 Nm of peak torque, 5-speed gearbox, air-cooled engine, underbelly exhaust setup, kick and self start maybe the ballpark. More

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    Electric Car Sales June 2024 – Tata, MG, Mahindra, Hyundai, Kia, BYD, Mercedes, BMW

    Image – JayarajFADA reveals a total of 6,894 all-electric cars and SUVs were sold by leading automakers such as Tata, MG, Mahindra, Hyundai, Kia, BYD, BMW, Mercedes and othersElectric passenger vehicle sales in India are slowing, according to the latest data revealed by FADA for June 2024. Retail sales of these electric powered passenger vehicles dipped 13.51% on a YoY basis to 6,894 units in June 2024, down from 7,971 units sold in the same month last year. MoM sales also dived 9.74% over 7,638 units sold in May 2024. It was also declining sales as compared to 7,415 units sold in April 2024 showing off an ebb in demand over the past 3 months. Electric Car Retail Sales June 2024Tata Motors, with the highest lineup of electric passenger vehicles topped this list with 4,346 unit sales last month, commanding a 58.6% share in this list. This was even as the company has reported a 20.77% YoY and 14.50% MoM de-growth in retail sales of electric passenger vehicles as against 5,485 units sold in June 2023 and 5,083 units sold in May 2024. Tata Motors currently sells the Tiago, Tigor, Punch and Nexon in this segment while the company is in the process to expand their EV lineup to include the Curvv EV, Harrier EV, Sierra EV and others.Electric Car Sales June 2024 – YoY comparisonMG Motor, at No. 2 saw a 21.12% YoY growth in sales to 1,405 units, up from 1,160 units sold in June 2023. The company however, saw a 2.50% MoM de-growth from 1,441 units sold in May 2024. MG Motor has the Comet and ZS EV in its electric PV segment priced from Rs 6.99-25.2 lakh (ex-showroom). MG will be launching a new crossover EV in the coming weeks.At No. 3 was Mahindra with 446 unit retail sales last month, a 7.99% YoY growth from 413 units sold in June 2023 while sales significantly fell on a MoM basis by 20.92% over 564 units sold in May 2024. There is the XUV400 as the only model in this segment with the electric version of the XUV700 set to make its debut by the end of this year. Mahindra XUV400 EV is currently priced from Rs. 15.49 – 19.39 lakh.Electric Car Sales June 2024 – MoM comparisonCitroen reported a 26.76% YoY decline, but saw outstanding performance on a MoM basis with a 174.42% growth from 86 units sold in May 2024 to 236 units in the past month. Citroen also gained position on this list from No. 6 in May 2024 to No 4 in the past month. BYD India electric PV sales are much in demand. The company has experienced a 23.78% YoY and 40.99% MoM growth in retail sales to 229 units last month. There had been 185 units and 163 units sold in June 2023 and May 2024 respectively. Earlier this month, the company also revamped its Atto 3 lineup by adding three variants of Dynamic, Premium, and Superior as against a single variant offered earlier. The Atto 3 is now being offered at an introductory price ranging from Rs 24.99 lakh for the Dynamic variant, to Rs 33.99 lakh for the Superior trim (ex-showroom).Hyundai electric PV retail sales suffered a setback. Sales dipped as much as 61.88% YoY and 36.46% MoM to 61 units. There were 160 units and 96 units sold in June 2023 and May 2024 respectively. Sales could be boosted with the new Hyundai Creta EV set to enter production while launch is scheduled for later this year. Kia sales also dipped 61.54% YoY and 28.57% MoM to 15 units.BMW India Commands No. 1 Position among Luxury BrandsComing to luxury electric vehicle retail sales, BMW India topped sales charts with 50 units sold last month. However, this was a 50% YoY and 30.56% MoM degrowth when compared to 100 units and 72 units sold in June 2023 and May 2024 respectively. The company’s electric PV portfolio currently includes i7, iX, i4, iX1, all priced between Rs 67-250 lakh (ex-showroom).Mercedes Benz saw affirmative demand in June 2024 with a 10.81% YoY growth in electric passenger vehicles. There were 41 units sold last month, 4 units more than 37 units sold in June 2023. MoM sales however dipped by 28.07% when compared to 57 units sold in May 2024. Mercedes Benz has also expanded their EV lineup to include two new electric SUVs – EQA and EQB. These two add to the EQE and EQS launched earlier taking the company’s BEV count to 4 models.Volvo sales fell 6.82% YoY to 41 units from 44 units sold in June 2024, the company saw a marked improvement on a MoM basis by 17.14% over 35 unit sales in May 2024. Audi AG has seen outstanding demand for its electric passenger vehicle lineup that grew by 114.29% YoY and 150% on a MoM basis to 15 units in June 2024. There had been 7 units and 6 units sold the corresponding month of 2023 and in May 2024 respectively. There were others in this segment that added 9 units to total retail sales last month projecting an 80% YoY growth but a 35.71% MoM decline. More

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    Royal Enfield 250cc Motorcycle Gets Internal Go Ahead – Launch By 2026/27

    Image for illustration onlyWhen launched, Royal Enfield 250cc bike will take on rivals such as TVS Ronin, Bajaj Pulsar N250, Suzuki Gixxer SF 250 and KTM 250 DukeWith plans to conquer new territories, Royal Enfield is readying a new 250cc platform. It is reported that this option has been under consideration for several years. Only recently, the 250cc project has been given the green signal.Royal Enfield 250cc bike – What to expect?It is known that Royal Enfield is progressing with its plans to introduce an average of four models per year till 2027. However, not many were expecting a 250cc bike from Royal Enfield. A new 450cc model or even an electric bike wouldn’t have created as much buzz as a 250cc bike. The timing seems just right, as preferences of the younger generation are more in favour of compact, agile machines.Cost is another factor that can be advantageous for the upcoming 250cc bike from Royal Enfield. As of now, the most affordable RE bike one can buy is the Hunter 350. It is available at a starting price of Rs 1.50 lakh. The upcoming 250cc bike could be launched at around Rs 1.25 lakh. At this price range, Royal Enfield can target a broader segment of users. The new 250cc platform will spawn multiple motorcycles, further improving its reach and sales volumes. RE’s first 250cc bike will be launched around 2026-27.Increasing pressure to reduce emissions could be another factor that may justify a 250cc bike. Users will benefit from higher mileage, thereby reducing the fuel cost burden. It is reported that Royal Enfield is also evaluating the possibility of a hybrid option with the new 250cc engine. However, this is still on paper and may take several years to become a reality. From the emissions perspective, Royal Enfield seems closer to launching an electric motorcycle than a hybrid model.Air-cooled setup likelyRoyal Enfield’s new 250cc platform is internally codenamed as the V platform. It is expected to have a simple architecture, with an air-cooled setup. Something similar to the 350cc air cooled engine and not the liquid cooled Sherpa engine in use with Himalayan 450. With a simple architecture, Royal Enfield will be able to launch the 250cc bike at an affordable price point.Not the first Royal Enfield 250cc bikeWhile a 250cc Royal Enfield bike in the 21st century comes as a surprise, the company had many such options during its more than 100-year history. For example, there was the 225cc Model A launched in 1930. In 1932, the legendary Bullet had a 250cc engine as one of the options. Another example is the 250cc Crusader model, launched in Britain in 1957. Other 250cc Royal Enfield bikes include the Clipper and the original ‘65 Continental GT 250.Even bikes less than 250cc capacity were in production such as the 148cc Model Z ‘Cycar’, launched in 1933. Another notable mention is Royal Enfield 125cc airborne motorcycle, known as the Flying Flea (1939-1945).Source More

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    Bajaj Freedom 125 First Ride Review – The Dawn Of CNG Motorcycles

    Bajaj Freedom 125 First Ride ReviewMost notable attribute about the Bajaj Freedom 125 CNG motorcycle is its incredible mileage (fuel efficiency) claiming up to 102 km/kgBajaj is rewriting the books of automotive history by launching the Freedom 125 in India. With huge export ambitions, Freedom 125 CNG will be remembered in history as the one that started it all. The first, the pratham, la primera, o primeiro, la premiere. Bajaj had provided Rushlane with a review sample for a short time. This is what we think about the world’s first CNG motorcycle.Bajaj Freedom 125 First Ride ReviewFor a motorcycle like this, everything depends on pricing. So, let’s start with that. Bajaj Freedom 125 CNG starts from Rs 95,000 for base variant and goes till Rs 1.10 lakh (Ex-sh). It is to be noted that Bajaj is matching the base price with other premium sporty 125cc motorcycles. This is commendable move, considering CNG bike has added costs and complexities to account for. The base variant would appeal a lot to fleet operators, while top variant would appeal to individual buyers.Bajaj Freedom 125 First Ride ReviewBajaj decided not to offer a drab-looking motorcycle as their first CNG offering. Even if you take away the CNG wow factor, Freedom 125 is still a handsome looking motorcycle and a standalone quality. We get an exposed trellis frame, beefy tank shrouds, muscular front fork covers, stylish alloy wheels, attractive lighting elements, swanky colours, and a really long seat. Knuckle guards would have made the bike even more attractive.Bajaj Freedom 125Features-wise, Bajaj has offered a fully digital negative LCD instrument cluster that is equipped with Bluetooth connectivity. LED headlights, LED tail lights, side-stand engine cut-off, USB charging socket and sturdy hooks for practicality are some of the notable features. All these features make Freedom 125 feature loaded, practical and versatile, apart from being fuel efficient.Bajaj Freedom 125 First Ride ReviewEngine, Specs and MileageMain highlight of Bajaj Freedom 125 is its brand new CNG+Petrol bi-fuel capable engine. This is a brand new 124.58cc single-cylinder Bi-fuel unit from Bajaj capable of running on both petrol and CNG with up to 102 km/kg mileage from CNG and 67 km/l from Petrol. Bajaj could fit this CNG tank under the seat because of this engine’s sloper design of this engine. This whole CNG setup, however, weighs a lot and contributes significantly to the bike’s 147.8 kg kerb weight.CNG tank alone weighs 16 kg and holds 2 kg worth of CNG gas. This CNG tank is protected by the bike’s trellis frame. Because of this whole setup, Bajaj repositioned air box into the fuel tank area, hence pushing a small 2L fuel tank towards the right. According to Bajaj, total range from this system is 330 km, which is not bad for a commuter. Rider can toggle between CNG and petrol modes easily with the flick of a switch on left switchgear.Bajaj Freedom 125 First Ride ReviewThere is a noticeable performance gap between CNG and Petrol. In crude words, Petrol is like a “Sport” mode, while CNG is “Eco”. When compared to other 125cc motorcycles, Bajaj Freedom 125’s performance is a cut below. The 147.8 kg kerb weight slows it down further. Performance metrics are 9.37 bhp and 9.7 Nm. Acceleration is fairly brisk, but overtakes need planning. For a motorcycle geared towards fuel efficiency, performance is perfectly acceptable. We experienced a few false neutrals with the bike’s 5-speed gearbox. Clocking more kilometres may smoothen things out.We did a thorough mileage run on this motorcycle. But the pressure at CNG filling station was not enough refill consistently. So, our mileage test yielded 85 km/kg when run on CNG, which varies with Bajaj’s 102 km/kg number. We might do a proper 100% to 0% mileage run for a more accurate reading in the future. Even at 85 km/kg, Bajaj Freedom 125 easily has the least running costs of any motorcycle in India, owing to the lower price for CNG fuel.Bajaj Freedom 125 First Ride ReviewRide, Handling and ComfortBajaj Auto Has taken special care when it comes to comfort on Freedom 125. The seat is probably the longest in the world and has acres of space. Seat height is 825 mm and was perfectly fine for me (182 cm tall individual) and I could even flat foot without any issues. Rider ergonomics was alright. The bike commanded a slight lean towards the handlebar, but not stress inducing for city commutes in any way. Which is the primary intended use for this bike.Bajaj Freedom 125The bike felt sure-footed while riding in the city or brisker runs on the highway. Freedom 125 doesn’t lose composure when tackling bad patches of road and does a good job of handling road irregularities. There were a few thunks here and there from front suspension. During our short period with this motorcycle, we didn’t feel the suspension setup to be unnerving or worrisome. Braking power was adequate for the segment and intended speeds of Freedom 125.Bajaj Freedom 125 First Ride ReviewConclusionBajaj has put a lot of effort into Freedom 125 CNG motorcycle and it shows. It looks premium and unique, but still matches the base price of its 125cc premium rivals, despite packing additional CNG equipment. In our time with Bajaj Freedom CNG, we faced a few engine related niggles. However, none of these are expected to translate to the production model that buyers will get their hands on.Bajaj Freedom 125We felt like Bajaj could have added an engine stop/start system to eke out even better mileage out of its first-ever CNG motorcycle. We also felt Bajaj could have added an engine kill switch and navigation feature bundled with Bluetooth connectivity. Bajaj needs to come up with more methods to propogate the safety aspects of this motorcycle to nudge buyers. Because safety was one of the concerns a lot of people had with this motorcycle.Bajaj Freedom 125 First Ride ReviewThat said, Bajaj Freedom 125 didn’t have a single deal breaker that would prove to be off-putting for target demographic. In that regard, we think Bajaj has a winner on their hands in the form of Freedom 125. The future of CNG motorcycles is here and we liked it more than we thought we would.[embedded content] More

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    New Royal Enfield Guerrilla 450 Arrives At Dealer For Service Training

    New Royal Enfield Guerrilla 450Royal Enfield will launch Guerrilla 450 on 17th July – Ahead of that, the motorcycle has arrived at dealershipAs Royal Enfield gears up for the launch of its highly anticipated Guerrilla 450 motorcycle on July 17th, 2024, new spy shots have emerged, offering a detailed look at the bike’s design and features. Positioned as a formidable contender in the Roadster segment, the Guerrilla 450 promises to deliver a blend of performance, style, and innovation that sets it apart in the market.Guerrilla 450 Spied At DealerAs launch nears, Royal Enfield has started shipping the first batch of Guerrilla 450 to dealers across India. It is from here that the latest spy shots have arrived. These reveal a striking Roadster-style silhouette for the Guerrilla 450, featuring a design that combines modern aesthetics with classic Royal Enfield heritage. Spy shots are credited to Aditya Singh.New Royal Enfield Guerrilla 450Notably, the bike boasts a new fuel tank design, suggesting a departure from the larger capacity seen in the Himalayan 450. This design tweak aligns with its urban-focused approach, catering to riders looking for agility and style in their daily commutes and spirited rides.Technical Specs and PerformanceUnder the hood, the Guerrilla 450 is powered by the Sherpa 450 engine, marking a significant leap in Royal Enfield’s engineering prowess. This engine incorporates modern features such as a DOHC 4V head and liquid cooling—firsts for any single-cylinder Royal Enfield model. Paired with a 6-speed gearbox, slipper clutch, and ride-by-wire throttle, the Guerrilla 450 promises a refined and responsive riding experience suitable for diverse road conditions.Royal Enfield 450The spy shots also highlight the bike’s chassis, which appears to be derived from the Himalayan 450 platform. However, the Guerrilla 450 features notable modifications, including RSU telescopic front forks with gaiters for enhanced suspension travel and roadster-style handlebars for a sportier riding stance. Alloy wheels shod with road-biased tubeless tyres further emphasize its urban-oriented design, offering superior grip and handling on city streets.Royal Enfield Guerrilla 3D RenderStyling and ErgonomicsIn terms of aesthetics, the Guerrilla 450 exudes a neo-retro charm with round LED headlights, round ORVMs, and a minimalist approach to fairing and wind protection—perfectly suited for its Roadster genre. The absence of a front windshield and beak enhances its sleek profile while maintaining a balance between classic design cues and modern functionality. Large disc brakes with dual-channel ABS ensure reliable stopping power, underscoring its commitment to safety and performance.Expected to be competitively priced around Rs 2.3 lakh (Ex-showroom), the Guerrilla 450 will challenge established models like the Honda CB300R and Triumph Speed 400. Its lighter weight and agile handling characteristics make it an attractive option for riders seeking versatility and excitement in their daily rides and weekend getaways.Beyond its technical prowess, Royal Enfield has captivated enthusiasts with its Guerrilla Marketing campaign, leveraging provocative visuals and cryptic messages to build anticipation. This unconventional approach not only teases the bike’s features but also sparks conversation and engagement across social media platforms, reinforcing the Guerrilla 450’s rebellious and distinctive identity. More

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    Royal Enfield Says Plastic Is Fantastic – Trolls Rival Brands In Guerrilla 450 Teaser

    Royal Enfield trolls rivals with Guerrilla marketingGuerrilla Marketing To Advertise Guerrilla 450 – Reason Behind Royal Enfield’s Unconventional Social PostsWhenever a new motorcycle is launched, the respective OEM ensures that there is enough marketing and hype around it after and before the launch. Royal Enfield is in a similar phase as they’re about to launch Guerrilla 450. Instead of conventional marketing methods, Royal Enfield is doing something that no other bike maker has probably done in India. Let’s take a look.Guerrilla Marketing To Advertise Guerrilla 450A lot of people who follow Royal Enfield social media platforms were in for a surprise seeing three of their most recent posts. Royal Enfield is found often mentioning the word “Cloneland”. Oldest post narrates “Welcome to Cloneland, where individuality is a thing of the past. Follow the algorithm and forget who you are. Sponsored by your friend, AI”.Royal Enfield trolls rivals with Guerrilla marketingThis video features what looks like crash test dummies leading a robotic and algorithmic life without individuality and character. The company is basically mentioning AI is taking over the mundane life. Second post was even more interesting as it featured the same dummy from the previous post saying “Plastic is fantastic”. It’s almost like taunting other makers with their extensive use of plastics.Royal Enfield trolls rivals with Guerrilla marketingThird post has two separate materials. One has a big billboard of a dummy welcoming the viewer to Cloneland. Second material is an image with the word “Unfollow” in it. As if it is suggesting the viewer to unfollow the Royal Enfield social pages. All three of these posts had a pirate flag as a caption, lending a perspective that the account had been hacked. Comments on these posts were hilarious.  However, only a few understood what was really going on.Royal Enfield trolls rivals with Guerrilla marketingWhat is going on?As Royal Enfield is launching their new Guerilla 450 in a few days, the brand has embraced an unusual marketing strategy. Called Guerrilla marketing, it is an atypical method of marketing and revolves around the concept of unconventional tactics to attract customers and create some buzz.Royal Enfield Guerrilla New Yellow ColourThis method is often known to delight customers and establish a lot of talk around whatever the product is in question. Royal Enfield is going heavy with this concept as the name of the marketing strategy aligns with their product, Guerrilla 450. This marketing stint revolves around the theme that Royal Enfield socials are hacked by AI and create buzz.Royal Enfield’s Guerrilla marketing strategy is less likely to be a dig at other bike manufacturers. For example, Guerrilla 450 will use many plastic parts too. Probably hundreds of them, small to large. Royal Enfield Guerrilla 450 is launching on 17th July, 2024, in Spain. It will be a stripped down version of Himalayan 450, sharing the platform and a lot of features. Royal Enfield Guerrilla 450 will rival Triumph Speed 400, Honda CB300R, Yezdi Roadster, Harley X440, Hero Mavrick 440 and others.Also read – Royal Enfield electric bike design leaked More

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    Bajaj Explains Why Freedom CNG Tank Is 2 Kgs And Not More To Give Higher Range

    Bajaj Freedom CNG TankWhile a bigger CNG tank will mean fewer visits to the gas station, a motorcycle has inherent limitations due to its compact sizeWhen an entirely new product is launched, it is natural for people to have various questions and queries. At the Q&A session held during the launch event of Bajaj Freedom 125 CNG bike, the panellists responded to the queries and provided some valuable insights.Why Bajaj Freedom 125 couldn’t get a bigger CNG tank?Petrol powered 125cc commuter bikes usually have fuel tank capacity of around 10-11 litres. But in the case of Bajaj Freedom 125 CNG bike, the total fuel capacity is 2 Kg of CNG and 2 litres of petrol. Bajaj claims mileage of 102 km per kg for the CNG and around 65 km per litre with petrol. The overall range comes around at 330 km. While this seems quite adequate, many people may frown upon the limited 2+2 fuel carrying capacity.Bajaj Freedom CNGResponding to a question why Freedom 125 does not get a larger CNG tank of say 4-5 kgs, which will increase the ride range on full tank to 500+ kms, the panellists provided all the technical details. The two main reasons for not having a larger CNG tank include the cost involved and the limited capacity of the bike. Just looking at the CNG tank placed under the seat reveals the huge size. Bajaj is using high-quality PESO certified CNG tanks, made from thick sheet metal.The CNG tank itself weighs 16 kg, probably making it the second heaviest single component of the bike after the engine. Add 2 kg of CNG and the weight reaches 18 kg. With the heavy duty CNG tank and supporting safety equipment, Bajaj Freedom 125 has a kerb weight of 149 kg. This is already much higher than petrol-powered 125cc bikes. For example, Honda Shine 125 weighs 113 kg whereas Hero Super Splendor has kerb weight of 123 kg.Impact on ride dynamicsAdding any more weight to Freedom 125 would have impacted the bike’s ride dynamics. Fuel efficiency could also have been reduced. The large size of the fuel tank clearly shows that there’s hardly any space to accommodate a larger CNG tank. Explanation from Bajaj regarding why the CNG tank is 2 kgs capacity can be seen in the video below from 35:10 mark.[embedded content]Cost constraintsAnother reason for not having a larger CNG fuel tank relates to the cost aspects. The entire dual-fuel CNG + petrol setup is quite expensive. Adding a larger CNG tank will probably necessitate new components, especially for safety reasons. The CNG tank itself is quite expensive. As Bajaj was aiming at a starting price of less than Rs 1 lakh, the 2 kg CNG tank was just right from the cost perspective.Refuelling challengesThe Q&A panellists also talked about the prevailing CNG dispensing pressure at gas stations. At around 180 to 200 bars, the pressure may not be enough to fully utilize the available storage space. The panellists requested gas suppliers to increase the dispensing pressure to around 350 bar. This will allow more CNG to be filled in the same available space.In the future, Bajaj may take measures to reduce the weight of the CNG bike. For that, one of the options is to use composite materials. Such steps will be taken after the cost aspects are taken care of. More