Bajaj Auto Launches World’s First CNG Bike

Bajaj Auto Ltd. has unveiled the world’s first CNG motorcycle, even as the wider two-wheeler industry transitions into an electric future. The Freedom 125 is powered by a 125-CC engine, with the ability to toggle between petrol and Compressed Natural Gas powertrains. The motorcycle will be available in three variants, with prices starting at Rs 95,000 (ex-showroom).

The CNG tank, placed under the seat, will have a capacity of two kilograms. It will be coupled with a two-litre petrol tank. The CNG motorcycle will have a range of 330 km, Bajaj claims.

The Bajaj Freedom CNG runs 102 km per kg of CNG, which means that it will have a range of approximately 200 kms on one full tank of CNG.

But Bajaj Auto knows a thing or two about CNG powertrains and how to package the gas on a vehicular chassis. Its gas-powered auto-rickshaws are ubiquitous on Indian roads as the first choice of last-mile connectivity. The company enjoys more than 75% market share in the passenger three-wheeler segment. To be sure, the two-wheeler industry has been weighing the idea of a CNG motorcycle or scooter