Bajaj Freedom 125 CNG: In a bold move to revolutionize the two-wheeler market in India, Bajaj Auto has introduced the Freedom 125 CNG, the country’s first-ever CNG-powered production motorcycle. Since its launch in July 2024, the Bajaj Freedom 125 CNG has been gaining significant traction, with sales reaching new heights and the company planning to ramp up production to meet the growing demand.
Soaring Sales and Production Capacity
According to the latest reports, the Bajaj Freedom 125 CNG saw a remarkable 68% growth in sales during the month of October 2024 compared to September. The model registered a record-breaking 8,310 units in October, the highest monthly sales figure since its launch.
Bajaj Auto is now planning to further increase the production capacity of the Freedom 125 CNG. The company aims to ramp up wholesale dispatches to 30,000 units in the third quarter of the current financial year and up to 40,000 units in the fourth quarter.
Competitive Pricing and Market Positioning
The Bajaj Freedom 125 CNG is priced competitively, with the base model starting at around ₹95,055 (average ex-showroom). This pricing strategy has made the CNG-powered motorcycle an attractive option for budget-conscious consumers.
In terms of market positioning, the Freedom 125 CNG has already captured a significant share of the two-wheeler market. The model accounted for 1.3% of all two-wheelers registered in Delhi in September, and it holds a national market share of 0.6%.
Key Features and Advantages
The Bajaj Freedom 125 CNG offers several features and advantages that have contributed to its growing popularity:
| Specification | Details |
|---|---|
| Engine Displacement | 124.58 cc |
| Maximum Power | 9.5 PS @ 8,000 rpm |
| Maximum Torque | 9.7 Nm @ 5,000 rpm |
| Transmission | 5-Speed Manual |
| Fuel System | Dual-Fuel (CNG + Petrol) |
| CNG Tank Capacity | 2 kg |
| Petrol Tank Capacity | 2 liters |
| Claimed Mileage | 65 km/l |
| Total Range | 330 km (200 km CNG + 130 km Petrol) |
| Braking | Combi-Brake System |
| Lighting | LED Headlight, Taillight, and Turn Signals |
| Instrument Cluster | Digital |
| Additional Features | USB Charging Port, Dual-Fuel Switchability |
- Dual-Fuel Capability: The motorcycle is equipped with both a CNG cylinder and a 2-liter petrol tank, providing riders with the flexibility to switch between the two fuel sources as per their convenience.
- Improved Mileage and Lower Operating Costs: Bajaj claims that the Freedom 125 CNG can deliver a range of up to 330 kilometers on a full CNG tank, while also reducing operating costs by up to 50% compared to traditional petrol-powered motorcycles.
- Extensive CNG Infrastructure: With over 4,650 CNG stations across more than 365 cities in India, the Freedom 125 CNG offers riders the assurance of readily available refueling options.
- Safety Measures: The motorcycle has been designed with safety in mind, including features like a crash-tested CNG tank that remains intact even in the event of a collision.
Future Outlook and Competition
Analysts project that the Bajaj Freedom 125 CNG could account for up to 6% of India’s total domestic two-wheeler sales in the financial year 2024-25, with estimated sales of 2,40,000 units.
While the Freedom 125 CNG currently does not have a direct competitor in the market, industry experts believe that other manufacturers may soon enter the CNG-powered two-wheeler segment. This could lead to increased competition and further innovation in the space.
Conclusion
The Bajaj Freedom 125 CNG has undoubtedly made a significant impact since its introduction, capturing the attention of both consumers and industry analysts. Its combination of competitive pricing, practical features, and the promise of lower operating costs have resonated with Indian riders seeking a more sustainable and cost-effective commuting solution.
As Bajaj Auto continues to ramp up production and expand the availability of the Freedom 125 CNG across the country, it will be interesting to see how the model fares against any potential competitors that may emerge in the future. For now, the Bajaj Freedom 125 CNG stands as a pioneering offering that has the potential to redefine the two-wheeler landscape in India.