Amidst an overall lull in the Indian automobile industry, the two-wheeler segment has been able to post moderate growth during FY 2012-13. But the market conditions have not been very favourable even for the 2-wheeler segment in the last few months. In this changing market scenario, Bajaj Auto is looking at a two-pronged approach, where growth of performance-oriented machines would go hand-in-hand with basic models. With this in mind, the company would be launching 2 new Pulsar models during FY 2013-14, while improving the Discover range further.
Of the two new Pulsars to be launched during 2014, one of which would be smaller than the 200 NS, while the other would be bigger. Reportedly, it will help the company maintain its leadership in this space. However, major attention would be paid to the Discover range of models. At present, models available in the Discover series are 100, 100T, 125ST and 125. Four of the new models to be launched would be priced under Rs. 50,000. Phasing out any of the existing models has not been completely ruled out. Since the launch of the 100T model during January 2013, 25,000 to 30,000 models have been selling every month, giving the company a sure footing in the commuter segment. In addition, Bajaj Auto is also planning to enter the Indonesian market soon.
Company Managing Director (MD) repeatedly emphasises the need to be able to provide motorcycles in different segments of the market, despite an ongoing slowdown. He further added that even though each brand is individually exclusive in terms of market positions occupied, but collectively an exhaustive list of choices are provided to the customer. Models such as the Ninja 300 and Ninja 650 target those individuals searching for a super sports bike in the mid-engine range. This is what he had to say, “For those who are looking for something distinctive and different we have the Duke 200. In the next month or so it will be joined by a bigger sibling, the KTM Duke 390.”
