Bajaj Auto, world’s fourth largest two-wheeler and three wheeler manufacturer, is all set to introduce the first KTM bike in India in coming weeks. The Austrian bike manufacturer has enjoyed immense success in Europe and Bajaj is positive of repeating the same in Indian automobile market. As per recent reports, Bajaj Auto is looking to raise its share in KTM from the current 38.09% to an ambitious 49%.
According to Amit Nandi, Business head (KTM) for Bajaj Auto, “The bike is already leading the segment in the European market and we are all geared up for KTM’s entry in India.” In 2008, the two companies came to an agreement to mutually develop 125cc bikes in India, which has recently been exported to the European automobile market.
The KTM bike was initially scheduled to launch at the end of 2011. After a few delays, the company is ready to start off its campaign with KTM Duke 200. However, Bajaj Auto will not showcase the two-wheeler at the Delhi Auto Expo, which commences on 5th January, 2012. He added that KTM Duke bikes will be available for sale in company’s probiking showrooms that are also handling sales of Kawasaki bikes.
On probiking showrooms, Nandi stated, “We are in the process of converting these probiking showrooms into KTM showrooms.” Out of the 30-35 showrooms that company owns in India, the Pune showroom has been transformed to KTM. As far as the prices are concerned, KTM bikes will cost around Rs. 1-1.5 lacs in India.
The company is planning to tap into the potential of the digital space for promoting the new product. On this, Nandi commented, “These are youthful and edgy bikes. It’s meant for people who are young at heart and will flaunt KTM’s signature colour - orange. The bikes are lightweight and fast, which will appeal to the target customers.”
