[wheelguy]

The new BS6-compliant Bajaj RE CNG model is powered by a 236.2cc single-cylinder engine that makes a humble 9.25bhp. The torque figure is not available, but we expect it to be somewhere around 16Nm. It has a seating capacity of four passengers (including the driver), but we all know it will accompany many more in its daily runs. The engine is mated to a 4-speed transmission.

The Bajaj RE is one of the most popular three-wheelers on the Indian market and its name (along with the likes of the Piaggio Ape and Atul Auto) is synonymous to what is commonly known as the “auto-rickshaw”. In its current BS4 avatar, the Bajaj RE is available in four variants: Petrol, LPG, CNG and Diesel. The first three variants employ the same 198.88cc single-cylinder engine, but outputs stand at 10.19hp/17Nm, 9.32bhp/16Nm and 8.78bhp/14.5Nm, respectively.

As you may have observed, the power plant used in the upcoming BS6 model is bigger than its BS4 sibling. The peak power has gone up by almost half a bhp and from the trend, we expect the output of the petrol and LPG variants to be significantly higher. Usually, the process of updating to newer emission norms come at the cost of reduced output (if the displacement remains the same), but Bajaj Auto chose to introduce an all-new power plant with better performance figures.

The data also shows that the BS6 variant shares the same dimensions as the outgoing BS4 model. This means that if the Bajaj RE CNG comes with some exterior updates, it will be limited to minimal cosmetic enhancements or maybe, nothing at all.

As expected, prices for the BS6 versions of the Bajaj RE three-wheeler series will be higher than the current models. At present, the Bajaj RE BS4 retails from around Rs 1,10,000 ex-showroom for the base petrol 2-stroke variant.

Source: Rushlane

[akshye]

Surprising to see that it's not dual fuel, but single dedicated CNG powered. First in India?

[varunsangal]

BS4 or BS6 it is surprising how the ubiquitous auto-rickshaw continues to meet the safety norms of our country. Crash test rating, crumple zones, air bags, seat belts, pedestrian safety features, elk test (...if wishes were elks...).

About time all modes of transport were held to the same standards as the passenger cars.

[abhishek46]

Originally Posted by varunsangal

BS4 or BS6 it is surprising how the ubiquitous auto-rickshaw continues to meet the safety norms of our country. Crash test rating, crumple zones, air bags, seat belts, pedestrian safety features, elk test (...if wishes were elks...).

About time all modes of transport were held to the same standards as the passenger cars.

I do agree on your views on the safety aspect.

However, there are so many places in our country, where the roads are so narrow, that only the humble auto-rickshaw can ply.

Secondly, it is a means of earning the daily bread for millions of auto-wallas, and no government has the vision or willpower to alienate such a huge demography.

Lastly, because of their small size, they are efficient. So, the tariff is a low, which is loved by the masses.

[varunsangal]

Originally Posted by abhishek46

I do agree on your views on the safety aspect.

However, there are so many places in our country, where the roads are so narrow, that only the humble auto-rickshaw can ply.

Secondly, it is a means of earning the daily bread for millions of auto-wallas, and no government has the vision or willpower to alienate such a huge demography.

Lastly, because of their small size, they are efficient. So, the tariff is a low, which is loved by the masses.

Bombay has its every other square inch of road covered with auto rickshaws, while I agree that there are some places where only autos can go, IMO those spaces need a redesign.

Also, as any Mumbaikar, fare refusal is a very common problem, so please understand if i don't fully buy into the 'daily bread view'.

Tariff wise buses and at least for now Ola, Uber are cheaper in most cases, that is if the auto-wallah agreed to ply at all.