Production-spec TVS Zeppelin could launch in India in early 2020 - Report
While TVS Motor Company has decided to stay away from the 2020 Auto Expo in Noida, Delhi-NCR, the company will reportedly reveal its new motorcycle, the production-spec version of the TVS Zeppelin concept in early 2020. Motoring website, BikeDekho reports that the upcoming cruiser is likely to arrive before the Auto Expo, and thus you can expect a January 2020 launch.
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Regular readers would know that TVS showcased the Zepplin concept cruiser at the 2018 Auto Expo. The concept vehicle was equipped with a 220 cc single-cylinder engine that worked with TVS patented Integrated Starter Generator (ISG) featuring an e-boost option. The ISG aims to start the motorcycle faster by giving it an augmented boost. The Zeppelin concept also used a 1200W regenerative assist motor with 48V Li-ION battery and a belt drive. The hybrid system sounds promising, although it will push up the cost, which will result in a higher price tag. Thus, the production-spec model may only use a conventional motor – at least in the initial phase.
The hardware specifications from the TVS Zeppelin will most likely be retained on the production-spec model. Thus, the production model will feature full LED lighting (taillight, headlight and blinkers) – a feature that is already seen on the RR310 – and a fully digital screen. We expect to see Bluetooth connectivity function on the instrument console that will provide access to features such as calls and music. The system will most definitely work with a smartphone app to record various parameters.
Shock absorption hardware, too, is likely to be identical to the concept motorcycle. Thus, the production-spec Zeppelin will use inverted forks with a gold finish at the front and a preload-adjustable mono-shock at the rear. The concept bike was seen tubeless tyre compatible wire-spoke wheels, and we hope that the production-spec motorcycle will retain the feature. Braking hardware will comprise petal-type discs on both wheels, while the setup will be governed by a dual-channel ABS.
At its motor show debut, the TVS Zeppelin was seen with a smart Bio-key and a headlamp integrated HD action camera, although those features are not likely to make it to the production-spec bike to keep the costs low.
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TVS confirmed ‘aggressive yet comfortable’ ergonomics, and thus we expect to see flat-style handlebar on the production model. The footpegs should carry the forward-set placement.
[Source: Bikedekho.com]
