Close alliance with BMW
TVS is not only the third-largest motorcycle manufacturer in India with around four million vehicles produced last year, but also a long-standing partner of BMW Motorrad. The two brands have been working together in the sub-500cc class since 2013. This cooperation has resulted in models such as the BMW G310R, the G310GS and the sporty TVS Apache RR 310. Production takes place entirely at TVS in India. By the end of 2021, over 100,000 units of these models had already been sold worldwide.
TVS not only builds BMW’s single-cylinder models, but also the new BMW CE 02 electric scooter. This collaboration has enabled the Indian manufacturer to develop its own models based on the G310 series, such as the Apache RTR 310 and the RR 310.
New patent shows chassis-integrated drive
The recently published patent indicates that TVS now wants to transfer its experience in motorcycle construction to a fully electric model. Unlike TVS’s previous electric scooters – which have a motor mounted in the swing arm – the new concept has a completely different layout. The electric motor is housed in the frame and drives the rear wheel via a belt drive. This design is more in line with classic motorcycle architectures and could enable better weight distribution and greater riding stability.
Design features of the patent shown are reminiscent of BMW’s electric CE models, in particular the CE 02 and CE 04. It is not yet clear whether BMW will present its own version based on the new TVS model. However, in view of the close partnership, this cannot be ruled out.
Prospects for TVS and BMW
The new electric motorcycle should enable TVS to strategically expand its product range – both for the Indian market and internationally. At the same time, if the platform is suitable, BMW could also benefit in the medium term and develop a variant with its own brand name.
As the vehicle is apparently still in the development stage, no technical details such as power, torque, range or charging times are known as yet. Nevertheless, the patent underlines TVS’s desire to play a pioneering role in the electric motorcycle segment in India and selected global markets.
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