TVS Motors have entered the three-wheeler segment, with the launch of it’s auto rickshaw called the TVS King. In a bid to capture a share of the growing domestic and export market for 3-wheelers, the company will manufacture both petrol and CNG-powered autorickshaws.

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TVS King comes with a 200 cc two-stroke low-friction engine. The company has promised a good mileage and a higher capacity engine, with the peak torque at lower RPMs. Fuel-injection technology being integrated, the fuel-efficiency should indeed be impressive. There is also the option of an electric start (ordinary version – hand start), albeit at a slightly higher price. Twin-headlamps, futuristic design, bottle-holder, magazine-holder, more leg-space for passengers and driver are some of the impressive features of the King. Also, the ric is priced very competitively, at a shade below it’s competitors. The price of the king will vary between Rs. 90,000 to Rs. 1,30,000. A 4-stroke version of the king is also in the pipeline.

The company is launching the King in a very gradual manner, as sales have started in the states of Tamil Nadu, Andhra Pradesh, Kerala and Gujarat. The response, so far, has been pretty good. Since the 3 wheeler market has been a monopoly of a single manufacturer, we believe TVS can do well if they can roll-out a descent product. Bajaj Auto currently leads the three-wheeler market in the country, followed by Mahindra and Piaggio. Recently, Honda India also announced its intention to enter the three-wheeler business. So, it is indeed a good move by TVS to foray into this segment of the Indian automobile industry. Let’s wait and find out whether the ‘King’ can rule the 3 wheeler segment.

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