TVS iQube hybrid scooter launch likely on 23 August: 110cc engine with 70 km of range
TVS iQube Hybrid will use an internal combustion engine and an electric motor, which will help deliver higher fuel efficiency. The hybrid scooter concept was first showcased during the 2014 Auto Expo.
TVS iQube Hybrid could be heading for a possible launch in India on 23 August. It will be an all-new scooter with an internal combustion engine (ICE) and an electric motor. The iQube Hybrid was first showcased during 2014 Auto Expo. With the launch of the iQube Hybrid, TVS would begin a whole new segment in the market. What adds confidence to this speculation is that TVS Motor Company has also trademarked the moniker. According to a Motoroctane report, TVS iQube Hybrid name has been registered with a new trademark logo as well.
TVS Motor Company has been on a launching spree of several new products this year, including the new RTR 160 4V, Ntorq125, and the Apache RR310 earlier. Having dropped such bombshells of introducing brand new products, we can only expect the homegrown company to make another eyebrow-raising announcement on 23 August.
A hybrid scooter has been expected from TVS for a long time now, since its first hybrid concept was revealed during the 2010 Auto Expo. TVS iQube is powered by a standard 110 cc single-cylinder petrol engine accompanied by an electric motor with 150 Wh and 500 Wh battery options.
In a standard hybrid setup, the ICE serves as the main driver and the electric motor assists with additional power. The iQube, however, will use the electric motor to send power to the wheel and the ICS will charge the batteries. Below 20 km/h, the scooter will run solely on the electric motor, which will ensure a better fuel efficiency.
The exact figures in terms of reduction in emission or increase in efficiency haven’t been disclosed yet but going by the IQube numbers one can expect a fuel-efficiency of around 70 + km to a litre of petrol.