No matter where the world is headed, enthusiasts always find a way to entertain themselves. When smaller ICE engines became the norm, ingenious minds introduced turbos to make up for the power deficit. Now, as the world shifts towards hybrid and electric vehicles, these geniuses have once again risen, using the ‘eco-conscious’ power for performance gains. Take the new 911, for instance – incredible hybrid tech with zero electric range. Another standout example is the TVS Apache RTE. While this one is fully electric, TVS has spared no expense in making this a ruthless machine specifically for the track. How so?
For starters, the fairing, wheels, and battery case are crafted from carbonfibre, resulting in an incredibly lightweight structure. TVS also claims it has the lowest coefficient of drag in its class, and while I can’t verify that, the sleek curves certainly suggest a design built for speed. Regarding the battery, TVS has kept specific figures under wraps but revealed the use of high-power cells paired with a custom Battery Management System (BMS) featuring special race algorithms and configuration controls. The battery is also the stressed member here. A single reduction motor spindle is linked to the rear wheel via a chain drive. The net result is an exceptional power-to-weight ratio, translating into extraordinary track performance, with the RTE capable of hitting a top speed of 200kmph. But it doesn’t stop there. A powerful machine needs a robust foundation. TVS has equipped the RTE with bespoke Ohlins front and rear suspension, Brembo brakes, and Pirelli’s super-grippy Super Corsa rubber.
And make no mistake, these bikes are as impressive on the track as they are on paper. I recently witnessed them in action at the first round of the TVS One Make Championship at the Madras International Circuit, and I was left speechless. While these might not have the roaring sound of an ICE race bike, the distinctive ‘whoosh’ can be heard around the track when they are at full throttle. When they zoom past you on the straight, it’s a sight to behold. I have never experienced anything like it before.
But how did it all start, and where is TVS Racing headed with the Apache RTE? The journey began in September last year when TVS Racing unveiled the Apache RTE, an electric race bike designed to race in the new Electric One Make Championship, set to start in 2024. Soon after, the world got its first taste of the RTE during the fourth round of the Indian National Motorcycle Road Racing Championship (INMRC), where initial reviews were quite positive. With that, TVS Racing became the first Indian manufacturer to enter the world of EV motor racing.
This year, the championship has officially debuted with eight handpicked riders from across the country. It would run alongside the TVS One Make Championship and the prestigious Indian National Motorcycle Racing Championship. As is customary, these riders get a practice and qualifying session before the official race, the next day. The performance that I praised before became very evident during qualifying. Sarthak Chavan clocked a lap of the Madras International Circuit in 1 minute 48.777 seconds, with others close behind. I was in awe. No other kind of racing that I have seen has shown this kind of a lap time. Then came the race day. It was tense, given it was the championship’s debut race. Sarthak Chavan took an early lead but others were close. It was a tense battle throughout, with several near misses. But after intense competition, Sarthak Chavan emerged victorious, followed by Chirant V and Alwin Sundar.
All this time, TVS has maintained that this move underscores their commitment to the future of electric racing. But as a journo, I can imagine the technology trickling down into TVS’ road bikes, benefiting not only the brand but also consumers and the competition. An Indian manufacturer possibly competing in international EV motor racing would also highlight India’s engineering prowess and innovation. This will also help bring in stricter safety norms as more and more electric bikes enter motorsports.
As we look forward to the second round, expectations are high and we hope more riders get to participate in it. And even though this might seem like a small step, this marks a historic moment for TVS Racing, Indian Motorsports and Indian engineering. While there is time for India to become a hallmark on the global motorsport stage, TVS Racing has certainly set the ball rolling.