It is reported to have hybrid technology, and the engine will be developed in collaboration with CFMoto
Quick News Highlights:
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Royal Enfield is reportedly in talks with CFMoto for a new 250cc engine
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New platform codenamed ‘V’ to support hybrid tech
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Could cost around Rs 1.30 lakh (ex-showroom), undercutting the Hunter 350, and will be the cheapest Royal Enfield bike
Royal Enfield is preparing to expand its lineup with a new 250cc motorcycle platform, aimed at the entry-level premium bike segment. According to a report online, the Chennai-based brand is in talks with Chinese manufacturer CFMoto to source hybrid engine technology for this platform. If the deal goes through, it will be the first time Royal Enfield uses a third-party powertrain in any of its bikes.
Hybrid Engine From CFMoto
The 250cc engine from CFMoto will reportedly be compact in size, compatible with hybrid technology, and is reportedly expected to have a mileage of around 45kmpl, so we wouldn’t be surprised if the mileage touches around 55kmpl with the hybrid technology. It will meet the current BS6 Phase 2, OBD-2B emission standards, and the upcoming norms that may require brands to meet a specific average mileage target across its lineup. If Royal Enfield wants to keep the pricing competitive, expect the 250cc platform to have a mild-hybrid tech first, just like the recently launched 2025 Yamaha FZ-S Fi Hybrid.
Pricing And Rivals
Internally codenamed the ‘V’ platform, the upcoming 250cc range will be positioned below the Royal Enfield Hunter 350, which currently starts at Rs 1,49,900 (ex-showroom). The new model is expected to carry an ex-showroom price tag around Rs 1.30 lakh, and will target at first time premium bike buyers, especially those upgrading from 100-125cc commuter bikes. It will target 150-160cc sport commuter bikes in the same price bracket.
Currently there are only sporty naked bikes in the 250cc segment, whereas the 200-250cc space only has one roadster, the TVS Ronin. With a retro design in the upcoming 250cc motorcycle, Royal Enfield will be able to establish a niche for itself, just like how it did in the 350cc segment.
What Will Still Be ‘Royal’?
Royal Enfield will definitely keep its iconic retro styling intact while using a modern, future-ready powertrain. While the engine will be developed in collaboration with CFMoto, other components like the chassis, suspension, brakes, cycle parts, etc. will be made by Royal Enfield itself.
Make In India
This upcoming bike will reportedly be heavily localised, with close to 90% of components expected to be made in India. This will help Royal Enfield keep the bike competitively priced for both domestic and global markets. Manufacturing will take place at the company’s manufacturing plant in Chennai.
BikeDekho Says
The new 250cc platform will play a big role in Royal Enfield’s small capacity bike market share in the future. The upcoming hybrid Royal Enfield bike is also a convenient middle ground between petrol powered bikes and electric bikes (the upcoming Flying Flea will be an expensive lifestyle product). It’s also reported that the deal will likely fall in place by September 2025, so expect a formal announcement then.
Source
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