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World’s First CNG Bike and Scooter Steal the Spotlight at Auto Expo 2025

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World’s First CNG Bike and Scooter Steal the Spotlight at Auto Expo 2025

The Auto Expo 2025 has been buzzing with electric vehicles dominating the show floor, but two groundbreaking innovations have managed to grab the spotlight: the Bajaj Freedom 125, the world’s first CNG-powered motorcycle, and the TVS Jupiter CNG, the world’s first CNG-powered scooter. These eco-friendly and wallet-friendly two-wheelers showcase India’s prowess in innovation, world-class R&D, and sustainable mobility solutions.

Here’s a closer look at these revolutionary vehicles and how they’re making a strong case for alternative fuel-powered mobility in a world increasingly focused on electrification.


Bajaj Freedom 125: The World’s First CNG Motorcycle

Bajaj Auto has once again proven its leadership in innovation with the Freedom 125, the world’s first CNG-powered motorcycle. Launched in July 2024, the Freedom 125 has already sold over 40,000 units, making it a popular choice for cost-conscious and eco-conscious riders.

World’s First CNG Bike and Scooter

Key Features and Specifications

  • Engine:
    • Powered by a 125cc, air-cooled, single-cylinder engine.
    • Produces 9.5 hp and 9.7 Nm of torque.
    • Mated to a 5-speed gearbox.
  • Performance:
    • Top speed of 90.5 km/h on CNG and 93.4 km/h on petrol.
  • Fuel Efficiency:
    • 94 km/kg in the city and 126 km/kg on the highway (CNG).
    • Petrol mileage: 53.4 km/l in the city and 62.37 km/l on the highway.
  • Range:
    • Over 200 km on 2 kg of CNG.
    • Additional 130 km with the 2-litre petrol tank, offering a combined range of 330 km.
  • Price: ₹89,997 (ex-showroom, Delhi).

Eco-Friendly and Cost-Effective

The Freedom 125 is not just about affordability; it’s also a step forward in reducing emissions. Compared to petrol-powered bikes, it emits:

  • 26.7% less CO2.
  • 85% lower non-methane hydrocarbons (NMHCs).
  • 43% less nitrogen oxide (NOx).

With operating costs as low as ₹1 per kilometre, the Freedom 125 is a wallet-friendly option for daily commuters.

Safety and Recognition

The Freedom 125 has passed 11 rigorous safety tests, including impact and truck-run-over tests, ensuring rider safety. It also won the Autocar Bike of the Year 2025 Award, impressing the jury with its innovation, usability, and cost-effectiveness.


TVS Jupiter CNG: A Concept with Big Potential

While Bajaj has already launched its CNG bike, TVS Motor Company is making waves with the debut of the Jupiter CNG concept at the Auto Expo 2025. This eco-friendly version of the popular Jupiter 125 scooter is the world’s first CNG-powered scooter, showcasing TVS’s commitment to sustainable mobility.

Key Features and Specifications

  • Engine:
    • 124.8cc, single-cylinder engine.
    • Produces 7.2 hp and 9.4 Nm of torque.
    • Slightly lower output compared to the petrol-only Jupiter 125 (8.1 hp and 10.5 Nm).
  • Performance:
    • Top speed of 80.5 km/h.
    • Fuel efficiency of 84 km/kg on CNG.
  • Range:
    • 226 km combined range (CNG + petrol).
    • CNG cylinder capacity: 1.4 kg (9.5 litres).
  • Features:
    • Digi-analogue display.
    • USB charger.
    • Start/stop technology.

Design and Practicality

Visually, the Jupiter CNG looks identical to its petrol sibling, except for the CNG sticker. However, the placement of the CNG cylinder under the seat eliminates the 33-litre storage space that the petrol Jupiter 125 is known for.

Market Readiness

While the Jupiter CNG is nearly production-ready, TVS is still evaluating market demand before launching it. When it does hit the market, it’s expected to be priced slightly higher than the petrol Jupiter 125, which currently costs between ₹79,540 and ₹90,721 (ex-showroom, Delhi).


Why CNG Two-Wheelers Matter

In a market dominated by electric vehicles, the introduction of CNG-powered two-wheelers offers a compelling alternative for eco-friendly mobility. Here’s why they matter:

  1. Cost Efficiency:
    • With running costs as low as ₹1 per kilometre, CNG two-wheelers are highly economical for daily commuters.
  2. Eco-Friendliness:
    • CNG significantly reduces harmful emissions, making it a cleaner alternative to petrol.
  3. Dual-Fuel Flexibility:
    • Both the Freedom 125 and Jupiter CNG offer the convenience of switching between CNG and petrol, ensuring riders are never stranded.
  4. Infrastructure Readiness:
    • India’s growing network of CNG stations makes these vehicles a practical choice for urban and semi-urban areas.

India’s Innovation on the Global Stage

The debut of the world’s first CNG bike and scooter at the Auto Expo 2025 is a testament to India’s innovation and engineering capabilities. Both Bajaj Auto and TVS Motor Company have demonstrated their ability to develop world-class products that cater to the needs of eco-conscious consumers.

While the Bajaj Freedom 125 has already proven its market potential with over 40,000 units sold, the TVS Jupiter CNG concept shows promise as a game-changer in the scooter segment. Together, these vehicles highlight the versatility of alternative fuels in the transition to sustainable mobility.


A New Era of Mobility

The Bajaj Freedom 125 and TVS Jupiter CNG are not just vehicles; they represent a shift towards more sustainable and cost-effective transportation solutions. As India continues to lead the way in automotive innovation, these CNG-powered two-wheelers offer a glimpse into a future where affordability, eco-friendliness, and practicality go hand in hand.

With the Freedom 125 already making waves in the market and the Jupiter CNG poised for launch, the stage is set for CNG two-wheelers to carve out their niche in the mobility landscape.

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