TVS Motor Company, one of the top two-wheeler makers in India, launched in mid-July an all-ethanol version of its motorcycle Apache.

The TVS Apache RTR 200 FI E100 can use up to 100% ethanol, even though this is not available at the pump currently. Business Today cited transport minister Nitin Gadkari as saying that he can now renew his efforts to convince the petroleum ministry that India needs pure ethanol pumps.

According to the report, the new Apache will initially be sold in Maharashtra, Uttar Pradesh and Karnataka.

Under its new biofuel policy, India aims to reach 20% ethanol in petrol by 2030 with an interim goal of 10% by 2022. Ethanol supply, however, cannot meet demand for now. Reuters recently reported that a memorandum of understanding (MoU) is expected to be signed later this year by Brazil and India for cooperation in ethanol production and trade.

Provided by Renewables Now exclusively for Essentica.