Few topics stir the gears of motorbike enthusiasts as much as retro models. Automobile manufacturers toying with nostalgia is a dangerous game, fraught with the potential for failure.
The best-case scenario for a manufacturer is increased brand equity. And an increase in sales if the revival is executed successfully.
Nostalgia
A retro bike model can help a non-luxury bike brand like TVS Motor Company grow sales. And find its place in the Indian vehicle market. But does TVS have what it takes to win over cruiser lovers?
Well, it does, and we are talking about the Zeppelin concept cruiser introduced by TVS at the 2018 Auto Expo.
TVS Motor Company debuted a prototype, which it has trademarked under the name ‘Zeppelin R.’ The manufacturer holds a patent for its design, and statements made to local media suggest that a production version will make its way to consumers in 2022.
Reports concerning the upcoming debut of the TVS Zeppelin R in India have lately appeared online. It has led some interested parties to continue to anticipate that the Zeppelin R would be released soon despite TVS saying it is merely a concept vehicle. And TVS doesnt have any intent to bring this concept into production.
Zeppelin R Concept
While there are no official releases on the subject, several Indian motorcycle web magazines like GaadiWaadi speculate TVS is set to release their flagship cruiser, Zeppelin R, in India.
If TVS’ existing range of BS-VI compliant motorcycles is any indication, we can expect the new entry-level cruiser / retro motorcycle offering with the latest technology.
The motorcycle gets a sleek, angular fuel tank, a step saddle, a hexagonal LED headlight having LED DRLs, a skid plate, rear adjustable monos, and front USD forks having a golden finish.
It has 240 mm rear and 300mm front disc brakes with smartphone connectivity. Further, the concept has a semi-digital console to show vital information and an integrated camera.
The engine is a 220cc single-cylinder that makes 20 horses with 16.27 Nm of torque.
TVS also made sure the Zeppelin also had a belt drive system, which we see rare on the small displacement motorcycles.
The cruiser concept has all the goodies stacked in it with a 1200W regenerative hybrid powertrain motor and 48V battery.
However, it is still a question of whether the production model will have all the above goodies. We may have to wait until TVS makes it official.
