Back in August 2017 the first statement on the alliance between Bajaj Auto and Triumph Motorcycles were released. As Bajaj transformed KTM's fortunes around after increasing its share from 14.5 percent in 2007 to almost 48 percent in 2015-16, the new alliance plays a major role for both foreign and regional brands. The non-equity tie-up drives on mutual benefits had already been established in mind as the development of new business opportunities, cost efficiency, production and the creation of new mid-capacity motorcycles. The Bajaj-Triumph agreement was officially signed today at Bajaj plant in Pune, and the key aspects were addressed. The meeting with the media was presented by Paul Stroud, CCO, Triumph Motorcycles, amongst other key members including KTM CEO Stefan Pierer. The British manufacturer has a presence in more than 57 markets around the globe and over 60,000 units are sold with a turnover of over GBP 530 million each year.
Under the alliance, the Triumph motorcycles will be manufactured by Bajaj taking advantage of its local production expertise and lean manufacturing techniques. The models will range from 200 cc to 750 cc because Triumph plans to bank with the joint tie-up on high volumes. In comparison, and rather disappointingly, Rajiv Bajaj said there will be no badged Bajaj bike coming out of this contract. He said that if his company had the ability to develop such a style of motorcycle that looked like a Triumph on its own, they would not have cared first of all about the relationship. Bajaj will also aid in some countries to sell the latest bikes of all capacities at domestic and global scale. The Triumph motorcycles with low capacity will be eligible for sale from 2022 Calendar year.
Already more than one team motorcycle has been assigned to work. The first Triumph volume-based versions are priced well below Rs. 2 lakhs. Triumph would develop the new models, with Bajaj taking care of the manufacturing duties. It is expected to target at shaking up the domination of the Royal Enfield in India's neo-classic segment and global markets. In turn, both firms will develop a new engine design for a completely new Triumph mid-size motorcycle. Nick Bloor, CEO of Triumph Motorcycles added that his company's 'heritage' names will be used by the upcoming bikes, meaning that the existing monikers will continue to be badged.
