Chandigarh/Mohali, 09 October, 2024 (Kulbir Singh Kalsi)
For those wanting to upgrade to a motor bike that’s both ‘environment friendly’ and offers unmatchable fuel economy there is good news – Two wheeler giant Bajaj Auto has introduced Bajaj Freedom –the world’s first CNG bike.
The bike was unveiled by Mr. T. C. Nautiyal, Director, Dept. of Environment (DoE) & Secretary Science & Technology and Renewable Energy, Chandigarh Administration at NDM Bajaj at Industrial Area, Phase I.
Manpreet Bindra, Regional Sales Manager; Naved Mohsin, Regional Service Manager; Ankur Aggarwal, Area Sales Manager & Rahul Gupta, Area Service Manager of Bajaj Auto Ltd.(BAL), were also present. Vaibhav Mehan & Nipun Mehan, Directors of NDM Autowheels, the Bajaj Dealership in Chandigarh, too were present. Vaibhav Mehan informed that 16 vehicles were delivered on the day of launch itself.
In a statement Rakesh Sharma, Executive Director of Bajaj Auto Ltd., said, “The Bajaj Freedom 125 showcases the Bajaj Auto Ltd. R&D and manufacturing prowess.
Through innovation Bajaj Auto Ltd has addressed the twin challenge of reducing rising fuel costs and reducing the environmental footprint from travel.
The initiative also aligns strongly with the government of India Infrastructure projects of building a CNG network driven by the need to use cleaner fuels and save foreign exchange. Over 75% of 2- wheeler customers rate fuel efficiency as a key attribute. Freedom 125 is aimed at all such customers, and we invite them to ‘Ride the Change’.”
Freedom to live better with unmatched savings in fuel costs: The Bajaj Freedom CNG motorcycle offers 50% cost savings by significantly reducing fuel expenses, as compared to similar petrol motorcycles. The CNG tank provides a range of 200+ km on just 2 kg of CNG fuel. Additionally, it has a 2-liter petrol tank which performs as a range extender, offering over 130 km of range in case the CNG tank empties, ensuring an uninterrupted journey.
Freedom to Go Green: CNG combustion produces approximately 26.7% less CO2 emissions than petrol, contributing to mitigating climate change. Additionally, CNG vehicles emit 85% lower NMHC’s (non-methane hydrocarbons) and 43% less NOx (nitrogen oxide).
Comfort, Safety and Convenience Features: The challenge posed in creating a CNG motorcycle is the packaging, given the compact nature of motorcycles compared to cars. The Bajaj Freedom CNG Motorcycle has an integrated CNG tank and kit housed securely in a trellis frame, with proven safety through rigorous testing.
A horizontally inclined engine and a Link-Mono shock system optimize space and provide a stable ride. The design features a friendly saddle height of 825mm and a narrow mid-section for easy ground contact.
Despite the CNG tank, smart weight-saving measures maintain a similar center of gravity to petrol motorcycles, ensuring neutral handling and rider confidence. The mono-linked type suspension offers better wheel travel and comfort, making the motorcycle suitable for various riding conditions.
Bajaj Auto has been a pioneer in innovation with a legacy of reliable and time-tested products, that have gone on to become category definers.
From introducing India’s first sports motorcycle, the Pulsar, 25 years ago, India’s first CNG 3-wheeler Bajaj RE around the same time, to being among the first to launch electric scooters in the country with the Chetak. Bajaj Pulsar is now being exported to over 50 countries and is a market leader in 20+ countries.
The all-new Bajaj Freedom comes in three variants:
Freedom 125 NG04 Disc LED available at ₹ 1 10 000 /– (Ex-Showroom)
Freedom 125 NG04 Drum LED available at ₹ 1 05 000 /– (Ex-Showroom)
Freedom 125 NG04 Drum available at ₹ 95 000 /– (Ex-Showroom)
Saving costs are comparable to motorcycles in the similar category.