Bajaj Auto has stated that the RE60 quadricycle is ready for launch in India. This was revealed by none other than Bajaj officials.
High Courts in various states of India had banned Bajaj from launching RE60 after PILs were filed claiming that it was unsafe. This delayed RE60’s launch indefinitely. Earlier this year, Supreme Court lifted this stay, allowing Bajaj to re-start the stalled certification process at ARAI.
Awaiting ARAI clearance, Bajaj Auto has also readied manpower and processes while its vendor base is also confirmed and just awaiting production to commence.
Bajaj RE60 has been mired in legal constraints delaying launch with ARAI also putting off approval and related. However, delay in launch of RE60 gave rivals much needed time to work on their respective quadricycle projects. For eg, Mahindra has commenced work on C101 project, while Piaggio is conducting studies to enter this segment. Vespa Scooters also showcased its NT3 concept at 2014 Auto Expo, while Tata Motors is working on an internal project called Bravo.
Bajaj RE60 quadricycle, the budget city mover, could come in with a price tag of INR 1.4 lakhs and its CNG variant is expected to be priced at INR 1.8 lakhs. The four seater vehicle is powered by a 216cc single cylinder, water cooled engine offering 20 bhp peak power, emission of 60 gm/km and mileage of 24 kmpl in city limits and 30 kmpl on the highway while the quadricycle can attain a top speed of 70 kmph.
Quadricycles are essentially an upgraded form of auto rickshaws, with extra wheel and better shelter.While Bajaj Auto awaits final clearance (hearing at Supreme Court is going to be held tomorrow), the company will also be shipping the new RE60 to Sri Lanka, Bangladesh, Africa and Latin American countries.
