Bajaj Auto showcased the production ready model of its RE60 quadricycle at the 2014 Auto Expo. The company also revealed the technical specifications of the vehicle that was first showcased at the previous Auto Expo in 2012. The vehicle faced many hurdles from the government and other car makers, but the company has been optimistic about it. Bajaj has approached the government to register the vehicle under a new category and is currently awaiting the clearance from the government to launch the RE60 by the end of 2014. The plan to ply quadricycles on Indian roads as public transport was cleared earlier this week.
The Bajaj RE60 was always seen as the successor to three-wheeler’s without the flaws. The exteriors have been revised and the quadricycle looks more contemporary. There have been slight changes on the overall design; however the dimensions are still the same. The RE60 quadricycle will be available in two variants, with a 1+3 and 2+2 seating layout. On the inside, the centrally mounted instrument console makes it visible to the passengers at the rear while the dashboard mounted gear shifter enhances cabin space. In terms of safety, the RE60 gets seat belts in the front as well as the rear.
The Bajaj RE60 quadricycle will be powered by a 216cc 4-stroke, single-cylinder liquid-cooled engine that uses triple spark ignition technology. The engine is capable of producing 20 BHP of power and is mated to a 5-speed manual transmission. The RE60 manages a top speed of 70 km/hr and with compact dimensions will surely be a spirited performer within city limits. The quadricycle has a claimed fuel efficiency of 37 km/l and CO2 emissions are pegged at 60 g/km. The RE60 will be available with petrol, CNG and LPG options when launched in the market.
Bajaj is also keen on exporting the RE60 to other potential markets such as Sri Lanka, Bangladesh, Peru and Nigeria. The prices will be at a premium than three-wheelers and is expected to be revealed nearing the reveal scheduled for September-October this year, once the government notifies the quadricycle norm. Currently, the government regulations, restricts the use of the RE60 as a commercial vehicle for people and goods transport only. Bajaj Auto indicated that the RE60 will be priced at around Rs. 1.95 lakhs which makes it Rs. 45,000/- more expensive than a rickshaw.
