TVS could be looking at strengthening its premium scooter portfolio with Jupiter 125 or launch a highly capable electric or hybrid scooter
TVS Motor Company has unique flavour in inviting media compared to other two-wheeler manufacturers and there is something definitely brewing under the curtain on August 23 as coffee mugs were sent out this time around. We examine what it could be!
How can a coffee mug be related to a bike or scooter? Perhaps the relaxing factor comes into play here? If that’s the case, are we going to see the production version of Zeppelin cruiser, which will rival the entry-level Bajaj Avenger series, way sooner than anticipated?
Realistically speaking and not averting the possibility of Zeppelin, TVS could be well on its way to strengthen its scooter portfolio as three or four new products are currently in the pipeline. TVS debuted iQube hybrid scooter at 2010 Auto Expo, before making appearances in the subsequent editions of the motoring show.
Going by a report emerged earlier this year, the production version of iQube hybrid scooter concept could finally enter the market. The concept used a regular 110 cc petrol engine or an electric motor mounted on the hub with 150 Wh and 500 Wh battery options.
At speeds below 20 kmph, the electric motor will generate power from brakes’ heat energy stored in lithium ion battery pack and supply to the scooter. Beyond those speeds, the petrol engine kicks in for normal operation. The electric power is crucial in traffic as scooters are generally ridden at lower speeds and it in turn helps in increasing the overall fuel economy.
With TVS having reportedly patented the iQube hybrid scooter already, we could be witnessing its arrival on August 23. However, TVS might head directly into electrification considering the spy shots of an electric scooter caught in April 2017. It clearly showed additional buttons on handlebar, inbound wiring, digital instrument cluster, and battery pack possibly mounted underneath the seat.
On a straightforward note, TVS may as well introduce the 125 cc version of its top-selling Jupiter scooter with fuel injection technology for linear power delivery and sporty throttle response. It will likely act as the Hosur-based brand’s another dig at the immensely growing entry-level premium scooter space.
It is expected to feature digital instrument panel, USB charging facility, Eco and Power modes, ample storage space under the seat, external fuel fill, monoshock rear and telescopic front forks, an edgy design language, etc. TVS is expected to tease the upcoming model before flaunting it for the media but until then, let the mug be used for what it really meant for!