TVS is working on two new motorcycles based on the Zeppelin Hybrid 220 bike showcased at the 2018 Auto Expo
At the last year’s 2018 Auto Expo, TVS Motor Company unveiled the Zeppelin cruiser concept with a hybrid powertrain, grabbing a lot of eyeballs. The reason for such attention was the unique design and a hybrid motor, both of which not available in India currently. It is now being learned that TVS is working on not one but two new motorcycles based on the Zeppelin Cruiser for the Indian market.
While the Zeppelin at the Expo was a hybrid cruiser, the two versions will be a 220 cc single cylinder petrol engine unit and a 220 cc single cylinder petrol motor will hybrid system. Both the motorcycles will compete against the Bajaj Avenger 220 and Royal Enfield Classic 350.
It is expected that the production version of the motorcycles will hit the road by early 2020, while the unveiling can take place as early as late 2019. While the Bajaj Avenger doesn’t face any direct competition for Avenger 220, the Zeppelin could give a tough to the former.
Also, the hybrid will be the first in India and will have an electric motor to add torque and improve mileage. Both the variants are expected to carry an integrated starter generator equipped engine for saving fuel while idling.
In terms of the design, TVS may manufacture a dark themed and a chrome-laden version to cater a wide spectrum of buyers in India. The Zeppelin cruiser could also get optional features like backrest and alloy wheels for both the versions.
The Zeppelin concept showcased at the 2018 Auto Expo had LED lights, USD forks and many features that could not make their way to the production-spec bike. Apart from the Bajaj, Zeppelin 220 will stiff competition from brands like Royal Enfield and Jawa, both of which offer 350 cc bikes, along with a strong brand following.