Autocar Professional has spotted the 2019 Bajaj RE 3-wheeler (facelift) testing in Mumbai. The test mule carried a partially covered front fascia to hide the soft updates.
Other than a re-styled fascia, the 2019 Bajaj RE 3-wheeler will feature an updated front mudguard. The revised styling is inspired from the Bajaj RE electric auto rickshaw showcased at MOVE 2018 in September this year. The updated model will feature sleeker headlamps for a modern look. Moreover, the test mule sports an updated top with a flat roof and transparent sections in the see-through material used on the sides.
A closer look at the image reveals the jerry cans on the rear seat for dead weight. Another highlight of the test mule is the set of larger wheels at both front and rear.
Currently, the Bajaj RE 3-wheeler is powered by a 198.88 cc, Twin Spark, 4-stroke DTSi single-cylinder engine that outputs 10 PS/14.9 Nm on CNG and 11.56 PS/15.2 Nm on LPG.
Reports suggest that Bajaj Auto has advanced the launch of the electric version from 2020 to the ongoing financial year. The powertrain of the Bajaj RE electric 3-wheeler gets its juice from 48-volt Lithium-ion batteries, which are swappable. Using the optional onboard charger, a full charge takes 6 hours. The company claims a driving range of up to 120 km on a full charge. Regenerative braking plays a crucial role in boosting efficiency. The top speed is rated at 45 km/h, which is sufficient for a commercial vehicle of this segment.
Also See - Bajaj Auto keen to supply Qute to Ola and Uber - Report
A report from earlier this year suggests that the company is about to ramp up the production of the RE-range to 1 million units a year. This news emerged soon after the scrappage of permit requirements for auto-rickshaws, buses and taxis that run on alternative fuels. Bajaj Auto, which sells multiple variants of CNG- and LPG-powered RE 3-wheeler and the Qute (quadricycle), is a clear beneficiary of this move.
[Source - autocarpro.in]
