TVS appears to be working on an all-electric motorcycle that could shake up the premium segment in the coming years. A set of patent drawings recently leaked online suggest that the Hosur-based manufacturer may be preparing an electric version of its Apache series. The sketches show a full-fledged motorcycle with design and component cues that resemble the Apache RTE — the track-focused electric concept TVS unveiled not too long ago.
What the Drawings Reveal
The leaked patent images offer a glimpse into what could be a serious attempt at building a performance-oriented electric motorcycle. Right off the bat, the drawings reveal a large main frame that houses a substantial battery pack on the left side. The subframe looks bolted onto the main chassis, a setup that appears almost identical to the one seen on the Apache RTE concept.
Interestingly, the seat design is minimal — just a thin layer of padding mounted directly onto the frame. This again points toward the bike being based on the RTE, which was designed for the racetrack rather than everyday use.
At the heart of the setup is a centrally mounted electric motor that powers the rear wheel through a belt drive system — a common feature on high-end electric bikes for its smoothness and low maintenance.
Fully-Faired Setup
From the geometry of the frame and the positioning of key components, it looks like TVS is developing a fully-faired motorcycle. While nothing is officially confirmed, the design cues are very close to those of the Apache RTE, strengthening the speculation that this may be a road-going or limited-edition variant based on that concept.
If this indeed is a production version of the Apache RTE, it will likely feature a more refined setup, added practicality, and possibly road-legal elements such as headlights, mirrors, and registration plates.
Premium Entry
It’s a well-known strategy in the global motorcycle industry — launch a premium, high-performance electric bike to grab attention, build the brand, and generate buzz. Once that premium image is established, more affordable and mass-market versions follow. TVS could be adopting a similar approach with this upcoming model.
Launching an electric Apache as a flagship offering makes sense. The Apache brand already has strong recognition in India, especially among young riders. A premium electric version would only elevate that image further.
Market Timeline
There’s no official launch date or technical details yet, but if these patent filings are anything to go by, a production version could be two to three years away. The electric motorcycle segment in India is still in its infancy, but it’s growing steadily. TVS already has some experience in this space with the iQube electric scooter, and an electric motorcycle would be the logical next step.
Given the pace at which the market is evolving and the increasing push for cleaner mobility, it wouldn’t be surprising to see a premium electric Apache hit the roads — albeit in limited numbers — by 2026 or earlier.
The Bigger Picture
For TVS, entering the electric motorcycle space with a performance-oriented product would put it in the same conversation as global brands like Zero, Energica, and even upcoming Indian players like Ultraviolette. It would also help the company stay ahead of the curve as the market shifts more aggressively toward electric two-wheelers.
If successful, TVS could not only carve a niche in the premium EV space but also create a ripple effect for mass-market electric motorcycles to follow. The Apache brand going electric might just be the start of a bold new chapter for the company.
FAQs
Is TVS working on an electric motorcycle?
Yes, leaked patents suggest an electric Apache is in development.
Will the electric Apache be based on the RTE?
Yes, the design closely resembles the Apache RTE concept.
What type of drivetrain does it use?
It features a belt drive with a centrally mounted motor.
When could it launch in India?
Expected in the next 2–3 years, possibly by 2026.
Will it be a fully-faired motorcycle?
The design suggests a fully-faired setup is likely.
