Bajaj RE 445M Diesel Auto-rickshaw spotted testing in Pune

With the advent of four-wheeled people carriers like the Tata Magic Iris, Mahindra Gio cab and the soon-to-be-launched Bajaj RE 60, any sane mind would be thinking that the three-wheeled autorickshaws are on their way out. Being no bigger than the regular auto-rickshaws that we know, models like the Gio and Magic Iris are comparatively more stable, safer and weather proof. On the contrary, manufacturers are sending out a loud and clear message that the three-wheeled auto-rickshaws are here to stay. First, it was Mahindra testing its Alfa auto-rickshaw on an arterial road in Chennai. Now, it's the turn of Bajaj, India's largest three-wheeler manufacturer and arguably one of the world's largest too.

Not content with its total dominance of the three-wheeler market with the older RE range, Bajaj Auto recently launched two new variants - the RE 145D in petrol, CNG and LPG variants and the RE 445M diesel auto-rickshaw. Yes, you read that right. With the diesel fetish that's currently prevailing in India, the RE 445M could be the perfect transport solution for suburban India. While Bajaj announced that it was planning to launch the RE 445M in a phased manner across the country, the testing apparently hasn't stopped. These two pictures shot in one of the suburbs of Pune late last week proves that Bajaj is still hard at work to ensure that the RE 445M hits the sweet spot once it is finally available nationwide.

For those who aren't aware already, the RE 445M boasts of twin halogen headlights, a twin fork suspension, a single piece front windshield and a 7-plate hand clutch apart from a stronger and bigger body with better passenger and luggage space compared to the regular auto-rickshaws. With a claimed mileage of 36 km/l and top speed of 55 km/h, the RE 445M is designed to deliver maximum mileage and better earnings, claims Bajaj. With an ex-showroom Pune price of INR 1.21 Lakh, it isn't much expensive than the regular auto-rickshaws too, thus having all the makings of a winner.