Bajaj Auto at Bharat Mobility Global Expo 2025: Bikes and Scooter, Bajaj Freedom
Featured Stories by Team Drivio | 21 Jan 2025
Bajaj Auto Showcases CNG Freedom Bike at Auto Expo 2025, Focuses on EV and Flexi-Fuel Growth
At the Auto Expo 2025, Bajaj Auto did not introduce any entirely new models, but the brand made waves by showcasing its innovative CNG-powered Freedom 125 bike. Positioned as a groundbreaking development in the two-wheeler industry, the Freedom 125 is the world’s first CNG motorcycle. This bike underscores Bajaj’s commitment to pioneering technologies and sustainable mobility solutions, reflecting the company’s ongoing efforts to cater to both the domestic and international markets.
Bajaj’s Focus on EV and Flexi-Fuel Segments
Rakesh Sharma, Executive Director of Bajaj Auto, shared insights into the company’s strategic direction during the event. Sharma expressed confidence that Bajaj is poised for substantial growth in both its electric vehicle (EV) and flexi-fuel segments, underlining the importance of expanding its offerings in these areas.
"We are focused on creating a robust lineup of EVs and flexi-fuel vehicles in the coming months. Bajaj is aiming to maintain its leadership position in this space, driven by our commitment to cutting-edge technologies and sustainability," Sharma stated. "We believe that the future of mobility will be shaped by electric and flexi-fuel options, and Bajaj is ready to lead this change."
The Success of the Bajaj Chetak and Freedom 125
Bajaj Auto’s efforts in electric mobility have already paid off handsomely with the Bajaj Chetak electric scooter. Sales of the Chetak grew exponentially throughout 2024, and in December of that year, it briefly outpaced all other competitors, including previous market leaders. The Chetak has firmly established itself as one of the most successful electric scooters in India, winning over both consumers and the broader industry with its blend of performance, affordability, and innovative design.
Meanwhile, the Bajaj Freedom 125, a dual-fuel (CNG and petrol) bike, has also witnessed impressive sales in just over a year since its launch. Bajaj Auto claims the Freedom 125 has sold over 40,000 units, and its strong sales reflect a growing consumer interest in eco-friendly and cost-effective mobility options. The bike’s dual-fuel capability, providing a combined range of 330km, has been a key selling point.
"We are thrilled with the response to the Freedom 125. It’s not just an innovative product; it’s a game-changer in the flexi-fuel segment. It combines fuel efficiency, low emissions, and affordability—qualities that resonate with both Indian and global customers," Sharma added.
World’s First CNG Bike – Bajaj Freedom 125
At the Auto Expo 2025, Bajaj Auto showcased its CNG-powered Freedom 125, highlighting the model’s transparent variant to demonstrate the intricate design and engineering behind the world’s first CNG motorcycle. Priced at Rs 89,997 (ex-showroom Delhi), the Freedom 125 features a new, air-cooled 125cc, single-cylinder engine that produces 9.5 hp and 9.7 Nm of torque, mated to a five-speed gearbox.
The bike runs at a top speed of 90.5 km/h when using CNG and slightly higher when on petrol, achieving 93.4 km/h. Bajaj Auto claims the Freedom 125 lowers operating costs by up to 50% compared to similar internal combustion engine (ICE) motorcycles, translating to just Rs 1 per kilometre. It’s equipped with a 2kg CNG tank providing a range of over 200 kilometres, along with a 2-litre petrol tank to extend the range further, offering over 130 km of range on petrol.
On the emission front, the Freedom 125 is significantly cleaner than traditional petrol-powered bikes. It emits 26.7% less CO2, 85% lower non-methane hydrocarbons (NMHCs), and 43% less nitrogen oxide (NOx). The bike has passed 11 rigorous safety tests, including impact and truck-run-over tests. Earlier this year, the Freedom 125 won the prestigious Autocar Bike of the Year 2025 award for its innovation and cost-effectiveness.
Bajaj Freedom 125 Specifications
Specification | Details |
Engine Type | Air-cooled, 125cc, Single-cylinder |
Power Output | 9.5 hp @ 7,500 rpm |
Torque | 9.7 Nm @ 6,000 rpm |
Gearbox | 5-speed |
Fuel Type | CNG and Petrol |
Top Speed (CNG) | 90.5 km/h |
Top Speed (Petrol) | 93.4 km/h |
CNG Tank Capacity | 2 kg |
Range on CNG | 200 km |
Petrol Tank Capacity | 2 litres |
Range on Petrol | 130 km |
Combined Range | 330 km |
Fuel Efficiency (CNG) | 94 km/kg (city), 126 km/kg (highway) |
Fuel Efficiency (Petrol) | 53.4 km/l (city), 62.37 km/l (highway) |
CO2 Emissions Reduction | 26.7% lower than petrol bikes |
NMHC Reduction | 85% lower than petrol bikes |
NOx Reduction | 43% lower than petrol bikes |
Price (Ex-showroom Delhi) | ₹89,997 |
This detailed specification table offers a clear breakdown of the Bajaj Freedom 125’s key features, including its performance, fuel efficiency, and eco-friendly aspects, making it an attractive option for environmentally-conscious riders looking for cost-effective and sustainable mobility solutions.
Bajaj’s Global Ambitions and Market Expansion
Sharma also emphasized Bajaj Auto’s focus on expanding its reach in global markets. With significant traction in regions like Latin America, ASEAN, and parts of Africa, the company aims to tap into new and emerging markets where demand for efficient, low-cost mobility solutions is on the rise. Bajaj’s recent entry into Brazil, along with its strong foothold in other parts of Latin America, demonstrates the company's commitment to becoming a dominant player in the global two-wheeler market.
Conclusion
While Bajaj Auto did not unveil new models at Auto Expo 2025, its showcase of the CNG-powered Freedom 125 and focus on the EV and flexi-fuel segments highlighted the company’s forward-thinking approach. With successful models like the Bajaj Chetak and Freedom 125, Bajaj is making significant strides in shaping the future of mobility in India and across the globe. As electric and flexi-fuel vehicles continue to gain traction, Bajaj’s commitment to innovation and sustainability is set to drive the brand’s continued success in the coming years.