TVS Earns Patent For Hybrid Two-Wheeler

TVS filed an application in 2008 with the Chennai Patent Office. The filing was related to a power propulsion system for a hybrid two-wheeler equipped with a hub motor.

A conventional two-wheeler is propelled by an internal combustion engine. The IC engine consumes more fuel and produces pollution. Several manufacturers are planning to move to electric vehicles.

But to overcome the limitations of an electric vehicle, automakers are trying to bring in the hybrid system in the two-wheeler segment. And TVS is just trying to do that.

A hybrid two-wheeler is equipped with two power sources, an electric motor and an internal combustion engine. The IC engine is the main powering unit and the electric motor assists the engine.

But there are quite a few hurdles to bring in the hybrid technology to two-wheeler segment. There will be power loss if the vehicle is running solely on an electric motor. With the gears connected to the IC engine still rotating.

The patent specification from TVS read, "The propulsion system disclosed in the patent application does away with extra motion transmitting parts like gearbox thereby being efficient in terms of net power transmitted to the traction wheel."

As per reports, TVS has been working on hybrid two-wheelers since a decade. The company also showcased a hybrid concept scooter, Qube at the 2012 Auto Expo.