VIJAYAWADA: Tamil Nadu-based TVS Motor Company launched the CNG version of its new passenger auto-rickshaw ‘TVS King’ here on Wednesday.

Managing Director of Kusalava Motors Private Limited Ch. R. K. Prasad handed over keys to first 10 customers from the city at a programme held at the company showroom on Mahatma Gandhi Road.

In addition to the built-in features with which the vehicles came from the TVS, the Kusalava Motors presented all accessories and FM radio sets free of cost to the first 10 customers.

Addressing a press conference on the occasion, Kusalava Motors executive director M.V. Krishna Prasad said the TVS had spent 10 long years on research and about Rs. 120 crores on developing the new design.

“This is India’s first 200cc two-stroke electric start auto-rickshaw. There is no need to shift the gears frequently,” he said.

Referring to the features, Mr. Prasad said interiors include dashboard, fuel indicator, mobile phone charging socket, dual tone seats and an integrated bumper.

“The electric start option is very useful for auto-rickshaw drivers, who have to start the vehicle at least 100 times a day,” he said.

As the TVS Motor Company had a tie-up with the United India Insurance Company, it was offering a free annual payment for one year for personal accident and health care insurance policy, under which the beneficiary would get medical care of a value of up to Rs. 30,000 a year for him and his family.

Managing director of Kusalava Motors B. Venkat Reddy, manager Sitaram and others were present.

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