TVS Jupiter CNG: World’s First CNG-Powered Scooter Coming Soon!
TVS Motor Company is preparing to introduce the world’s first CNG-powered scooter, the Jupiter CNG. Scheduled to hit showrooms by late 2025 or early 2026, this move comes at a time when fuel costs are pinching daily commuters and affordable alternatives are in growing demand.
A Bi-Fuel Scooter That Prioritises Affordability
The Jupiter CNG is not just another variant. It marks a technological shift. With a dual-fuel system that allows riders to switch between compressed natural gas and petrol, it’s designed to address both cost and range concerns.
The scooter packs a 1.4 kg CNG tank under the seat, paired with a 2-litre petrol tank placed within the floorboard. This setup gives it a combined range of 226 kilometres, 84 km on CNG alone, helping riders go longer distances without refuelling frequently.
At prevailing CNG prices, running costs are estimated at well under ₹1 per kilometre, a significant reduction compared to petrol-powered alternatives. For urban commuters who clock in 30–40 kilometres daily, this promises meaningful monthly savings.
Tweaked Performance for Daily Use
Powering the Jupiter CNG is a modified version of TVS’s familiar 124.8cc, air-cooled engine. It puts out 7.2 horsepower and 9.4 Nm of torque, slightly lower than the regular Jupiter 125. However, this small trade-off in performance is offset by the fuel savings.
A CVT automatic transmission remains standard, promising an easy riding experience in city traffic. TVS claims a top speed of around 80 km/h, making it more than adequate for daily commuting.
Design Tweaks with One Notable Compromise
Aesthetically, the Jupiter CNG remains close to its petrol sibling. It continues to offer features like LED headlamps, a semi-digital instrument cluster, a USB charging port, and a side-stand indicator.
However, one key difference is the loss of underseat storage space. The CNG tank now occupies this area, neatly concealed under a plastic cover fitted with a pressure gauge and filler nozzle.
While the absence of storage might be a deal-breaker for some, TVS is betting that buyers focused on fuel savings will be willing to compromise.
Riding A Wave of Alternative Fuel Adoption
TVS is not alone in exploring CNG for two-wheelers. Bajaj Auto's Freedom 125, the world’s first CNG motorcycle, has already crossed 41,000 units in sales since its mid-2024 debut. The timing of the Jupiter CNG's launch suggests TVS is looking to ride the same wave of demand for cost-effective, low-emission commuting solutions.
With more cities expanding their CNG refuelling infrastructure, the convenience barrier is gradually being lowered. Although CNG availability is still largely limited to urban areas, the scooter’s ability to switch to petrol provides a useful fallback for riders in less connected zones.
Pricing Strategy and Market Expectations
The Jupiter CNG is expected to carry a premium of ₹15,000 to ₹20,000 over the standard Jupiter 125, placing it between ₹95,000 and ₹1 lakh (ex-showroom). While this may seem steep initially, the fuel savings are likely to offset the upfront cost within 18 to 24 months for most buyers.
TVS is reportedly targeting modest initial sales of around 1,000 units per month, indicating a cautious yet confident approach. The scooter is clearly aimed at a niche audience: city commuters who want a petrol backup without committing to electric vehicles or dealing with charging infrastructure.
A Smart Alternative in a Changing Market
The Jupiter CNG doesn’t claim to replace petrol or electric scooters outright. Instead, it offers a practical, transitional solution for riders seeking lower running costs without giving up the convenience of traditional fuelling.
As fuel prices continue to rise and environmental concerns mount, this hybrid approach could appeal to a sizeable segment of cost-conscious urban buyers.
In a market increasingly split between petrol and electric, TVS's move to introduce a CNG scooter could carve out a third, compelling path. One that blends familiarity with frugality.