NEW DELHI: Bajaj Auto has introduced a groundbreaking advancement in the realm of two-wheelers with the launch of the Bajaj Freedom 125, heralded as the world’s first CNG-powered motorcycle. The unveiling ceremony in Pune, attended by Union Minister Nitin Gadkari, highlighted the company’s commitment to innovation and sustainability in the automotive sector.
Rakesh Sharma, Executive Director of Bajaj Auto, emphasised that the Freedom 125 epitomises their strength in R&D and manufacturing, addressing the dual challenges of escalating fuel costs and environmental impact. The motorcycle promises nearly 50% lower operating costs compared to traditional petrol-powered models, aiming to reduce air pollution significantly.
The Bajaj Freedom 125 features a distinctive design with an exposed trellis frame, braced handlebar, and forks equipped with innovative fork sleeves. Notable features include the segment’s longest seat (785mm) and a pioneering linked mono-shock suspension system.
A standout feature of the Freedom 125 is its dual-fuel capability, boasting a 2kg CNG tank alongside a 2-litre petrol tank. This setup allows for a combined range of 330km and seamless switching between CNG and petrol via a handlebar-mounted switch.
The motorcycle is offered in three variants to cater to diverse customer preferences. The NG04 Drum variant, priced at ₹95,000 (ex-showroom), includes essential features like a
NEW DELHI: Bajaj Auto has introduced a groundbreaking advancement in the realm of two-wheelers with the launch of the Bajaj Freedom 125, heralded as the world’s first CNG-powered motorcycle. The unveiling ceremony in Pune, attended by Union Minister Nitin Gadkari, highlighted the company’s commitment to innovation and sustainability in the automotive sector.
Rakesh Sharma, Executive Director of Bajaj Auto, emphasised that the Freedom 125 epitomises their strength in R&D and manufacturing, addressing the dual challenges of escalating fuel costs and environmental impact. The motorcycle promises nearly 50% lower operating costs compared to traditional petrol-powered models, aiming to reduce air pollution significantly.
The Bajaj Freedom 125 features a distinctive design with an exposed trellis frame, braced handlebar, and forks equipped with innovative fork sleeves. Notable features include the segment’s longest seat (785mm) and a pioneering linked mono-shock suspension system.
A standout feature of the Freedom 125 is its dual-fuel capability, boasting a 2kg CNG tank alongside a 2-litre petrol tank. This setup allows for a combined range of 330km and seamless switching between CNG and petrol via a handlebar-mounted switch.
The motorcycle is offered in three variants to cater to diverse customer preferences. The NG04 Drum variant, priced at ₹95,000 (ex-showroom), includes essential features like a halogen headlight and full-LCD console. The NG04 Drum LED variant, priced at ₹1,05,000, enhances the experience with an LED headlight, LED DRLs, and a tank cover flap. At the top tier, the NG04 Disc LED variant, priced at ₹1,10,000, integrates advanced features such as smartphone connectivity via Bluetooth, LED headlight, and an LCD instrument console.
Recognizing the current limitations of global CNG refuelling networks, Bajaj Auto plans an initial rollout in states with robust CNG infrastructure, beginning with Maharashtra and Gujarat. Production is slated to commence at a capacity of 10,000 units in the initial 2-3 months, scaling up to 30,000-40,000 units by the end of the fiscal year.
Bajaj Auto, renowned as India’s largest two-wheeler exporter, also eyes international markets, particularly in countries like Egypt, Tanzania, Peru, Colombia, Bangladesh, and Indonesia, which exhibit promising CNG refuelling networks. This strategic expansion leverages Bajaj’s existing expertise in the CNG segment, complemented by successful offerings like bi-fuel options for three-wheelers and the upcoming international launch of the CNG-powered Qute.
The launch of the Bajaj Freedom 125 underscores a commitment to pioneering eco-friendly commuting solutions amidst growing global environmental concerns. It aligns with India’s infrastructure initiatives promoting cleaner fuels and reducing foreign oil dependency, setting a new standard in sustainable mobility for the future.
