TVS launches ethanol-based Apache bike

New Delhi: TVS Motor Company on Friday launched Apache RTR 200 Fi E100, India's first ethanol-based motorcycle, for a starting price of Rs 1.20 lakh (ex-showroom). The special edition bike was introduced in the presence of the Union Road Transport and Highways Minister Nitin Gadkari, NITI Aayog CEO Amitabh Kant and TVS Motor Chairman Venu Srinivasan.

TVS Motor Company Chairman Venu Srinivasan said, "Today, the two-wheeler industry is looking at green and sustainable future mobility solutions spanning across electric, hybrid and alternative fuels. TVS Motor believes that ethanol-based products are an important option for our customers. This is due to the easy compatibility in the transition to ethanol and its sustained positive impact on the environment without comprising on performance and total cost of ownership."

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 per cent 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.

Visual changes to the RTR 200 Fi E100 include differentiated graphics. The bike uses a twin-spray-twin-port EFI technology.