According to sources, Baja Auto is expected to finally launch its first four wheeler in the domestic market around Diwali of the year 2012. It is anticipated that the motorcycle maker will bring forward the RE 60 model at this time in order to attract more buyers, since Indians usually make major purchases in this auspicious period only. With this passenger carrier, the company aims to replace the auto rickshaws from the streets of the country.
Bajaj RE 60 is a heavily anticipated vehicle as it is a feasible option against Tata Nano, which currently holds the title of 'World's Cheapest Car'. Moreover, it has emerged as a viable competitor to passenger ferrying auto rickshaws. This car will be powered by a small liquid cooled, single cylinder 200 cc petrol engine that delivers decent power output of 20 bhp, while its mileage will be 35 kmpl, which will appeal to low income families that want a fuel efficient vehicle. Moreover, it will be environment friendly too, with CO2 emissions of just 60 g/km. The price of the model is expected to be close to Rs. 1 lac only, which is also close to that of an auto rickshaw.
The manufacturer is building the RE 60 at its Aurangabad plant, where it also produces its three wheelers. As a commercial vehicle, it will be offered to buyers in two variant – an entry level trim and a feature-rich, higher end edition. In order to tap into the potential of load carrier segment, the manufacturer may launch the CNG version of the vehicle as well.
RE 60 had been commissioned by the Renault-Nissan alliance in India to take on the Ultra Low Cost (ULC) car segment. Bajaj Auto, one of the most prominent two wheeler manufacturers of India, was given the responsibility of designing and developing the vehicle by the Franco-Japanese company. However, after seeing the final version of the model displayed by Bajaj at the 2012 New Delhi Auto Expo held in January 2012, the alliance was not pleased. Nevertheless, the bike maker said that it will go ahead with its plans of launching the model as a passenger carrier as well as a family vehicle.
