Bajaj Auto showcased two alternative fuel motorcycles at the India Bio-Energy & Tech (IBET) Expo 2024, drawing attention with its innovative approach to sustainable mobility. While the spotlight was initially on the newly launched Freedom 125 CNG-powered bike, it was the unveiling of the ethanol-powered Pulsar NS160 that truly stole the show.
First Look at the Ethanol-Powered Pulsar NS160
This is Bajaj’s first fully ethanol-compatible motorcycle, capable of running on 100% ethanol as well as varying blends of petrol and ethanol. Given Bajaj’s established presence in markets like Brazil—where ethanol use is widely supported and promoted—the company already produces E27-compliant models (which use fuel containing up to 27% ethanol). However, this E100 Pulsar NS160 marks a significant leap, showcasing Bajaj’s readiness for a future of cleaner, more sustainable fuels.
Key Changes and Specifications
The ethanol-powered NS160 is expected to retain the base engine hardware of the current NS160, which features an oil-cooled single-cylinder engine. While the Indian E20-compliant NS160 produces 17.2 hp and 14.6 Nm of torque, output figures for the E100 variant may differ slightly. Major modifications include changes to the fuel tank and supply system to handle the corrosive nature of ethanol, along with updates to the engine management system to accommodate varying ethanol blends.
A Step Towards Affordable and Cleaner Fuel Options
Ethanol presents a more cost-effective and environmentally friendly alternative to petrol, aligning with the Indian government’s push towards mainstream adoption of ethanol-blended fuels. With the ethanol-powered Pulsar NS160, Bajaj is not just expanding its portfolio but also demonstrating its commitment to supporting India’s transition towards greener transportation solutions.
Read Also: Bajaj Pulsar NS 200, NS 160 Review: Keeping it Fresh
By embracing ethanol as a viable fuel option, Bajaj Auto is positioning itself as a pioneer in the alternative fuel segment, ready to meet the evolving demands of both domestic and international markets.
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