TVS Motor launches India’s first ethanol-powered bike

TVS Motor Company today launched India’s first ethanol-based motorcycle – the TVS Apache RTR 200 Fi E100 – priced at Rs 120,000. At this price, the ethanol-powered Apache 200 Fi E100 is Rs 9,000 more expensive than the petrol-powered 200 4V. The  197cc single-cylinder engine in the new TVS develops an identical 21hp at 8500rpm and 18.1Nm of torque at 7,000rpm.

The eco-friendly bike was launched today by Nitin Gadkari, Minister for Road Transport and Highways of India & Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises; Amitabh Kant, CEO of NITI Aayog, and Venu Srinivasan, chairman, TVS Motor Company. The Chennai-based two-wheeler manufacturer had first showcased the TVS Apache RTR 200 4V Ethanol concept at the Auto Expo 2018.

Speaking at the launch, Venu Srinivasan, chairman, TVS Motor Company, said, “We are delighted to launch the TVS Apache RTR 200 Fi E100. The two-wheeler industry is looking at green and sustainable future mobility solutions spanning across electric, hybrid and alternate fuels. TVS Motor Company believes that ethanol-based products are an important option for our customers. This is due to the easy compatibility in transition to ethanol and its sustained positive impact on the environment without compromising on performance and total cost of ownership. The TVS Apache RTR 200 Fi E100 is a breakthrough in the two-wheeler space that will set the trend for a green future in India.”

"Ethanol is domestically produced from renewable plant sources. It is non-toxic, biodegradable, as well as safe to handle, store and transport. An oxygenated fuel that contains 35 percent oxygen, ethanol reduces nitrogen oxide emissions from combustion. Apart from this, ethanol also helps reduce carbon monoxide emissions, particulate matter and sulphur-di-oxide. Use of ethanol as a fuel will also reduce dependence on the import of petroleum and increase energy security,” added Srinivasan.

To differentiate it from the other Apache sibilings, the Apache RTR 200 Fi E100 sports a vibrant interplay of green graphics woven with the ‘Ethanol’ logo. According to TVS, the green machine is equipped with Twin-Spray-Twin-Port EFI technology. This ensures better drivability, faster throttle response and reduction in emission levels. TVS also claims the bike delivers better usable power under varied ambient conditions.

This special edition bike is to be made available in Maharashtra, Uttar Pradesh, and Karnataka. However, there's a catch. The TVS Apache RTR 200 Fi E100 cannot run on regular petrol. In effect, while you can buy the bike, the fuel to run it on is not available at the moment.