TVS Zeppelin – Bajaj Avenger 220 Rival Launching in 2020
TVS Motor Company had showcased the Zeppelin power cruiser concept at the 2016 Auto Expo. It is expected that the production version of the Zeppelin cruiser will be launched in early 2020. It was speculated that the production-ready Zeppelin will be unveiled at the Auto Expo. However, the homegrown two-wheeler maker has decided to not take part at the upcoming biennial event.
It is expected that the road testing of the upcoming Zeppelin cruiser could start in early 2020. The new motorcycle will directly rival the Bajaj Avenger 220; though it will sit above the Avenger in terms of pricing. The TVS Zeppelin concept was powered by a 220cc single-cylinder engine benefitted with TVS patented Integrated Starter Generator with an e-boost option. The concept also had a 1200W regenerative assist motor with 48V Li-ION battery. This motor drives power to the rear wheel via a belt drive.
The production version of the TVS Zeppelin cruiser will be powered by a 212cc single-cylinder air-cooled engine. This powertrain is based on the Apache’s 197cc engine. The BSVI compliant unit will have increased bore size for higher displacement. It is likely to produce around 20bhp of power and around 22-25Nm of torque.
The production version Zeppelin is expected to retain the styling of the concept. The motorcycle is likely to get full LED lighting, all-digital instrument console with Bluetooth support, dual-disc brakes with dual-channel ABS system, etc. While the concept was equipped with 41mm upside down front forks, the production model will receive conventional telescopic front forks. The production-spec TVS Zeppelin motorcycle will miss out on smart Bio-key and a headlamp integrated HD action camera to keep the costs low. The power cruiser is expected to be priced around Rs 1.2 lakh. It will be positioned above the Apache RTR 200.
