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    Mahindra Renames BE 6e to BE 6 For Now – Amid Legal Dispute with IndiGo, Vows to Contest Case

    Indigo 6E and Mahindra BE 6eThe case will be closely watched as it not only involves two of India’s leading companies but also raises questions about trademark rights and their scope across different industries
    In an ongoing legal tussle between Mahindra & Mahindra and InterGlobe Aviation Limited (IndiGo) over the use of the “6E” brand, Mahindra has announced that its upcoming electric SUV will now be branded as the “BE 6.” This decision comes as the two companies gear up for a courtroom battle over trademark rights.
    Mahindra had originally named its electric SUV the “BE 6e” as part of its Born Electric (BE) platform, with the vehicle unveiled alongside the XEV 9e on November 26, 2024. While Mahindra maintains that the name “BE 6e” is distinct from IndiGo’s “6E,” which is associated with the airline’s branding, it has decided to rebrand the SUV to avoid potential market confusion and focus on its product launch.
    Mahindra’s Stance on the Dispute
    Mahindra has stated that it applied for the trademark registration for “BE 6e” under Class 12 (vehicles), which pertains to an entirely different industry from IndiGo’s operations in aviation. The company emphasized that its trademark is not “6E” but “BE 6e,” highlighting the distinct styling and usage context.
    “We believe our mark differs fundamentally from IndiGo’s ‘6E,’ which represents an airline, eliminating any risk of confusion. Moreover, our registration application is specific to a different industry sector and product,” Mahindra said in its statement.
    Mahindra also pointed out that IndiGo had previously faced a similar challenge from Tata Motors over the “IndiGo” name, as Tata had used the Indigo brand for its cars. Despite Tata’s objection, IndiGo retained its brand name, arguing it operated in a different sector. Mahindra finds IndiGo’s current stance inconsistent with its earlier actions.
    Rebranding and the Way Forward
    While Mahindra has renamed its SUV the “BE 6” to ensure a smooth market launch, the company has made it clear that it will continue to contest IndiGo’s claims in court. Mahindra expressed concern that granting IndiGo exclusivity over a two-character alphanumeric mark could set a problematic precedent, potentially stifling creativity and branding across industries.
    “Our priority remains delivering an excellent customer experience and focusing on popularizing electric transport in India. However, we firmly believe IndiGo’s claims are baseless and will strongly contest them in court. Allowing such claims to go unchallenged could monopolize common alpha-numeric marks, creating challenges for companies across sectors,” Mahindra added.
    A Call for Collaboration
    Mahindra also called for greater collaboration between Indian multinationals, stating that engaging in unnecessary legal battles diverts attention from the larger goal of contributing to the nation’s growth and development.
    “We find it unseemly that two large Indian companies are entangled in a distracting conflict when we should be championing each other’s growth and innovation,” Mahindra noted in its statement.
    Launch Plans for BE 6
    Despite the legal dispute, Mahindra is pressing forward with the launch of its BE 6 and XEV 9e SUVs. Deliveries are slated to begin in February 2025. Mahindra’s focus remains on its Born Electric platform, which aims to lead India’s transition to sustainable mobility solutions. More

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    Modified TVS Apache Vortex 310 By Smoked Garage Looks Dope

    TVS Apache Vortex 310 BY Smoked GarageWith Supermoto-inspired TVS Apache Vortex 310 custom build, Smoked Garage has turned the dopeness dial all the way to the max!
    One of India’s leading 2W and 3W vehicle manufacturers, TVS Motor, has a very diversified portfolio. In the motorcycle segment, TVS has Apache RTR 310 and Apache RR 310 as its flagship offerings. These motorcycles come with refined and performant powertrains along with comprehensive rider electronic aids.
    So, there couldn’t be anything more raunchy or sensational than these motorcycles from TVS, right? Renowned bike modification house, Smoked Garage, thinks otherwise and has come up with their version of this motorcycle. TVS Motor showcased the same on social media platforms, calling it Apache Vortex 310 by Smoked Garage.
    Apache Vortex 310
    TVS Apache Vortex 310
    Smoked Garage is a renowned motorcycle modifier based out of Bali, Indonesia. Known for their Cyberpunk and Steampunk theme modifications, Smoked Garage turns the dope factor dial all the way to the max on motorcycles they work on.
    Sticking with the new Apache Vortex 310 build by Smoked Garage, we can see a futuristic and minimalistic supermoto-inspired design. Overall appeal is very edgy and the attention to detail on this machine is laudable. It features a stripped-down appeal, shedding all of the bodywork that came from the factory.
    Apache Vortex 310
    Important highlights of this build include a custom angular racing fuel tank, a custom subframe with a minimalist LED tail light setup, maximum induction airbox, a high-grip performance seat integrated with air ventilation and anti-drag wheel covers at the front and back. The main highlight, however, has to be its sleek and perplexing dual exhaust setup.
    This exhaust setup has Orange highlights. Similar Orange highlights can be seen on its brake callipers, handlebar grips and on its minimal flat-tracker-like headlights. There’s an underbelly cowl with TVS Racing leaping horse logo also finished in Orange. Front USD telescopic forks get a muscular cover, finished in Black. Overall, Smoked Garage has played with White, Black and Orange colours very well.
    Apache Vortex 310
    Same Powertrain
    Under its trellis frame, we can still see the reverse-inclined 310cc DOHC 4V/cyl liquid-cooled motor that is capable of generating up to 37.48 bhp of peak power and 29 Nm of peak torque, mated to a 6-speed gearbox, slipper clutch, bi-directional quick shifter and the motorcycle gets a plethora of electronic rider aids.
    Just last year, Smoked Garage also worked on TVS Ronin Musashi build, which TVS Motor showcased at 2023 MotoSoul. Musashi was showcased alongside Ronin Agonda by Germany-based JvB Moto, Ronin Wakizashi by homegrown Rajputana Customs and lastly, Ronin SCR by TVS’ in-house Design Team.
    Apache Vortex 310 More

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    TVS Unveils New 300cc Engine – To Power Upcoming Apache RTX ADV ?

    TVS Unveils New 300cc Engine
    While there’s not much difference in power and torque output, the new 300cc engine can have benefits like refined performance and improved fuel efficiency
    At the ongoing MotoSoul 2024, TVS has unveiled an entirely new 300cc engine named RT-XD4. It has been designed and developed completely in-house at the company’s R&D facility located in Hosur. The new engine is a testament to the strong research and engineering capabilities of TVS Motor.
    TVS new RT-XD4 engine – Key features
    In comparison to the existing 312.12 cc engine, the new RT-XD4 engine has a displacement of 299 cc. Power and torque output of the new RT-XD4 engine is at 35.45 PS and 28.5 Nm. Bore is 78 mm, whereas stroke is 62.6 mm. The new engine gets a 6-speed gearbox and also has a slipper clutch. RT-XD4 engine has improved cooling, made possible with liquid cooling for the head and air-oil cooling for the crank cases.
    TVS Unveils New 300cc Engine
    TVS new RT-XD4 engine is built on an entirely new platform. Some of the key highlights include a dual overhead camshaft integrated with a down-draft port and a dual oil pump featuring a split chamber crankcase. For enhanced cooling, a dual cooling jacket cylinder head with a water jacket has been used. The new RT-XD4 also has a dual breather system. Its primary purpose is to restrict oil contamination and minimize oil consumption.
    TVS new RT-XD4 engine Vs. Existing 312.12 cc engine
    As compared to the new engine, the existing 312.12 cc engine generates 35.6 PS and 28.7 Nm. Bore and stroke figures are at 80 mm and 62.1 mm, respectively. The 312.12 cc engine is liquid cooled and is mated to a 6-speed gearbox with slipper clutch.
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    As is evident, the performance numbers are a close match. However, the new RT-XD4 engine could deliver a better overall performance with its advanced architecture. TVS has stated that the new engine has highly linear torque characteristics. In essence, users can expect a seamless ride experience with the new engine.
    While not officially announced, it is possible that the new RT-XD4 engine could be lightweight. If that’s true, a higher power-to-weight ratio can be achieved. Another possibility is improved fuel efficiency. Achieving compliance with upcoming stricter emission norms could also become easier with the new RT-XD4 engine. From a business perspective, the new engine could have a lower production cost. Capital expenditure related to design and development will be adjusted over the long term.
    Which TVS bikes will use the new RT-XD4 engine?
    TVS has not revealed when the new RT-XD4 engine will reach the stage of commercial production. However, we do know that TVS has trademarked a new name – TVS Apache RTX. Spy shots have also revealed a blurred image of a new 300cc ADV bike being tested. This could be the first bike to get the new RT-XD4 engine. Reports also reveal that testing of the new bike is already in the final stages. And launch could take place around mid-2025. TVS already has the RTR 310 streetfighter and Apache RR 310 fully faired bikes. A new ADV bike will add more depth to TVS Motor’s 300cc portfolio. More

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    India-Spec KTM 390 Adventure S, 390 Enduro R Debuts At IBW In Goa

    India-spec KTM 390 Adventure S, 390 Enduro RWhere India-spec KTM 390 Adventure S emerges as an Adventure Tourer, 390 Enduro R sheds the bodywork and is a hardcore off-roader
    After a busy spectacle at EICMA 2024, KTM has brought its 390 Adventure lineup to India. The new 390 Adventure S and 390 Enduro R debuts in India for the first time at ongoing IBW (India Bike Weak) in Goa. Looking at these motorcycles, we can see that they are very close to what was shown at EICMA 2024.
    New KTM 390 Adventure
    Manufactured by Bajaj Auto in India, KTM’s 390 lineup holds quite a recall here and abroad. Known for its manic performance within the single-cylinder offerings, KTM 390 is quite popular. Within the 390 portfolio, 390 Adventure holds a special position as it caters to the widely popular Adventure Tourer genre.
    390 Adventure S
    Alongside 2025 KTM 390 Adventure, the company also showcased 390 Enduro and 390 SMC at EICMA 2024. These motorcycles are completely new from KTM. For India, KTM has showcased 390 Adventure S and 390 Enduro R. SMC 390, on the other hand, is a Supermoto motorcycle based on this platform with 17-inch wheels at both ends.
    Sticking with the just-debuted India-spec KTM 390 Adventure S and 390 Enduro R, the company has showcased them at ongoing IBW in Goa. There are differences between these two machines in the way they are built and their capabilities. 390 Adventure S is more of an Adventure Tourer with decent off-roading and trail capabilities.
    390 Enduro R
    Aventure S rides on 21-inch front and 17-inch rear wire-spoke wheels. Ground clearance is lower on 390 Adventure S and it gets a lower seat height, when compared to 390 Adventure R showcased at EICMA 2024. Suspension setup comprises of USD front forks and rear mono-shock and 390 Adventure S also gets a TFT instrument cluster.
    More capable 390 Enduro R
    On the other hand, 390 Enduro R is far more capable and is a proper off-roader. 390 Enduro is a more dedicated and hard-core off-roader with minimal bodywork and less weight. It gets a larger 21-inch front and 18-inch rear wire-spoke wheels combination. The suspension is likely to be fully adjustable for compression and rebound. Suspension travel could be around 230mm.
    390 Enduro R
    Because of the larger wheels and higher suspension travel, the ground clearance is higher as well. Thus the seat height has been pushed up too. Where features are concerned, 390 Enduro R gets similar attributes as seen with 390 Adventure S, sans the bodywork.
    390 Adventure S
    Where powertrains are concerned, both Adventure S and Enduro R gets the same 399cc DOHC 4V/cyl liquid-cooled single-cylinder motor from 390 Duke. This motor is capable of generating 45 bhp and 40 Nm, mated to a 6-speed gearbox, slipper clutch and a bi-directional quick-shifter. KTM might tune this engine differently to achieve an optimum character for these machines.

    Also read – Upcoming Hero Xpulse 421 ADV sketch revealed More

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    Triumph Scrambler 400X Year-End Benefits – Free Accessories Worth Rs 12.5K

    Triumph Scrambler 400XThe 398.15cc DOHC 4V/cyl liquid-cooled single-cylinder engine on Triumph Scrambler 400X is capable of generating 39.5 bhp and 37.5 Nm
    With a strategic partnership with Bajaj Auto, iconic British motorcycle manufacturer, Triumph Motorcycles, has achieved a new price-conscious 400cc platform. The more premium offering based on this platform is Scrambler 400X, which has been bestowed with year-end benefits of up to Rs 12.5K.
    Triumph Scrambler 400X Year-End Benefits
    Recently, Triumph offered attractive year-end benefits of up to Rs 12,500 on Scrambler 400X to boost sales and footfall into the dealerships. The iconic British motorcycle manufacturer is not offering cash benefits worth Rs 12,500 on the Scrambler 400X. There is a complementary set of accessories worth Rs 12,500.
    The accessories part of this package worth Rs 12,500 includes a stylish T-shirt (official apparel merchandise), tank pads for rider grip onto the motorcycle, a luggage rack kit for utility, a high mudguard kit, a coated windscreen and lower engine bars. Ex-sh price of Triumph Scrambler 400X is Rs 2.64 lakh.
    Discerning buyers of Scrambler 400X can avail of this year-end offer by Triumph between 1st of December 2024 to 31st of December 2024. Triumph Scrambler 400X offers an exhilarating riding experience both on and off the roads. With robust underpinnings, it also encourages riders to have fun and explore unchartered terrains.
    Triumph Scrambler 400X
    The 398.15cc DOHC 4V/cyl liquid-cooled single-cylinder engine is capable of generating 39.5 bhp of peak power and 37.5 Nm of peak torque, mated to a 6-speed gearbox. It comes with 19-inch front and 17-inch rear alloy wheels with block-pattern tyres for the Scrambler look and character. It is suspended on USD front forks and mono-shock setup at the rear.
    New Scrambler T4 incoming?
    There was a lot of buzz around the Bajaj-Triumph camp suggesting that the duo is keen on bringing two new motorcycles around the festive season to push monthly sales volume to 10,000 units. We saw the launch of MY24 Speed 400 and its more affordable and less performant variant, Speed T4, in India.
    In October 2024, Bajaj-Triumph duo pushed a hair above 4,000 units in sales with a 17.52% YoY growth and a 17.41% MoM growth, gaining 597 and 594 units in volume YoY and MoM respectively. Outside of Royal Enfield’s 350cc and 450cc ecosystem, Triumph’s 400cc is the best-selling lineup.
    Triumph 400X Scrambler
    As seen with recent spy shots, Bajaj-Triumph duo seems to be developing a more affordable and less performant variant of Scrambler 400X, similar to what we saw with Speed T4. It could be called Triumph Scrambler T4, when launched. There is a good probability of it boosting the sales for the brand when launched at a competitive price. More

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    Tata Motors EV Sales Decline 11.2% YoY – Likely To Miss 1 Lakh Target

    New Tata Punch EV. Image – Shubhadip SinghaTata Motors, once a dominant force in the Indian EV segment, is grappling with declining sales despite maintaining the largest market share
    Tata Motors, India’s leading electric vehicle (EV) manufacturer, is facing a challenging fiscal year as it struggles to achieve its ambitious EV sales target of 1 lakh units for FY25. Despite dominating the EV segment with popular models like the Nexon EV and Punch EV, the company recorded an 11.2% year-on-year decline in EV sales during the first eight months of FY25, delivering 42,778 units. With just four months remaining, the automaker faces an uphill battle to even surpass its FY24 sales of 73,844 units.
    Missing EV Sales Target
    This marks the second consecutive year that Tata Motors has failed to meet its 1 lakh unit EV sales target. N. Chandrasekaran, Chairman of Tata Motors, had previously set this ambitious goal, doubling the company’s FY23 EV sales during the annual general meeting in July 2022. However, the company missed its FY24 target and is now falling short in FY25 as well.
    A Tata Motors spokesperson noted that the entire passenger car market is experiencing flat growth, with the EV adoption curve similarly affected. “Discontinuity in central and state policies incentivizing EV purchases has contributed to this slowdown. With EV being the destination technology for the passenger car industry, we remain focused on developing the market for mainstreaming EVs,” the company said.
    Analysts predict that the overall Indian passenger car market is likely to end FY25 with a modest 2% growth compared to the previous year, reflecting the impact of subdued consumer demand.
    Windsor has become No 1 selling electric car in Oct 2024
    MG Windsor Steals the Spotlight
    In stark contrast to Tata’s declining sales, the MG Windsor has made a significant impact since its launch. In November 2024, it recorded sales of 3,144 units, surpassing the Tata Nexon EV for the second consecutive month. The Windsor’s strong performance has cemented its position as the No. 1 best-selling electric car in India, challenging Tata Motors’ long-standing dominance in the EV market.
    Tata Motors’ upcoming models, such as the Harrier EV and Sierra EV, are expected to bolster its portfolio, but their impact will be felt only in the next fiscal year. Competition will be even more fierce by that time, as Maruti will have their eVitara, Hyundai will have Creta EV and Mahindra will have BE 6e and XEV 9e. As new players and models enter the market, established brands like Tata Motors will need to adapt to maintain their market position in this rapidly evolving space.
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    Bajaj To Launch The New Best Chetak Yet On 20th Dec – Official Teaser

    2025 Bajaj Chetak Electric Scooter LaunchIn addition to a new chassis, upcoming new Chetak electric scooter can also get an improved battery pack
    Bajaj Chetak electric scooter was a relatively slow starter at the time of its launch in 2020. However, with new models, price cuts, continuous improvements and network expansion, Chetak has emerged as the third best selling electric scooter in the country.
    2025 Bajaj Chetak model – What’s new?
    It is expected that the new 2025 Chetak model will be utilizing an entirely new platform. This will be part of the continuous improvements that Bajaj has introduced for Chetak over the years. The primary idea is to introduce changes that improve Chetak’s competencies against rival offerings. Chetak takes on rivals such as Ola S1, Ather Rizta and TVS iQube. These rival electric scooters offer more practicality with their bigger storage space. With the new Chetak model, Bajaj may be looking to achieve something similar.
    2025 Bajaj Chetak Electric Scooter Launch Teaser
    Using an entirely new chassis, 2025 Bajaj Chetak is expected to be more lightweight. This will improve its performance as well as range. In the new platform, the battery pack could be moved under the floorboard. This will ensure that there’s ample space under the seat. With the battery pack placed under the floorboard, overall control and handling of the scooter will also improve. The lower centre of gravity will be beneficial while cornering, sudden braking and acceleration and manoeuvring the scooter at low speeds.
    The battery pack could also be updated with a more advanced unit. It could be more energy efficient and safer as well. Assuming that a more advanced battery pack is used, the new Chetak could deliver a higher range. It is also possible that a higher capacity battery pack could be accommodated with the new platform. This too will boost performance and range.
    Bajaj Chetak Spied Testing
    In the teaser, Bajaj claims that this will be the Best Chetak yet. They are also saying it will be Fully Lifeproof. With the upcoming 2025 Chetak model, Bajaj will be looking to further boost its market share in the electric two-wheeler segment. In October 2024, Chetak had a market share of 20.29%. That’s pretty close to the 21.50% market share of TVS iQube, the second best selling electric scooter.
    Lower pricing, improved styling?
    To make Chetak more accessible, the new 2025 model could be launched at a lower price point. Just like the current model, there will be multiple variants of the new 2025 Chetak. The base variant could be made more affordable. As of now, the base 2903 variant of Bajaj Chetak with the 2.88 kWh battery pack is available at a starting price of Rs 95,998. Next is Chetak 3202, priced at Rs 1,15,018. The top variant 3201 is available at Rs 1,27,244. There’s a Special Edition version as well, priced at Rs 1,28,744.
    Existing Chetak variants have a range of 123 to 137 km. Base variant has a top speed of 63 km/H, whereas the others are rated at 73 km/H. While the new 2025 Chetak will retain its classic design format in most parts, there could be some minor cosmetic adjustments. Some new colour options could also be introduced with the new Chetak electric scooter. More

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    2W Sales and Exports Nov 2024 – Hero, Honda, TVS, Bajaj, Suzuki, Enfield

    Hero Splendor : Image – Ryt To KnowHero MotoCorp continued to lead the list with 4.39 lakh unit sales even as it has witnessed a YoY and MoM decline in domestic markets
    Leading two wheeler brands such as Hero, Honda, TVS, Bajaj, Suzuki, and Enfield have seen ups and downs in terms of both domestic sales and exports in Nov 2024. While most purchases in this two wheeler segment were made during the auspicious festive months of Sept and Oct 2024, year-end purchases have seen a decline.
    Two Wheeler Domestic Sales Nov 2024
    Domestic sales of two wheeler majors Hero, Honda, TVS, Bajaj, Suzuki and Royal Enfield in Nov 2024 ended on a negative note. The 6 leading OEMs accounted for a total of 15,32,048 unit sales last month which was a 1.23% YoY decline over 15,50,849 units sold in Nov 2023. MoM sales also suffered an even higher setback by 25.75% when compared to 20,63,387 units of Oct 2024 which was boosted by festive demand.
    Hero MotoCorp, though the No. 1 best-selling two wheeler maker, suffered a YoY and MoM decline in sales. Sales slipped to 4,39,777 units in the past month, a 7.67% YoY and 33.07% MoM decline. The company had sold 4,76,286 units and 6,57,043 units in Nov 2023 and Oct 2024 respectively and commanded a 28.71% share on this list. Hero MotoCorp has just introduced the V2 range of electric scooters which along with the upcoming Hero Mavrick 440 Scrambler could boost sales in the months ahead.
    Close behind Hero MotoCorp in terms of sales in domestic markets last month was Honda with 4,32,888 units sold. However the company has witnessed a 2.90% YoY growth from 4,20,677 units sold in Nov 2023. MoM sales declined by 21.74% over 5,53,120 units sold in Oct 2024. Honda also looks ahead with positivity with the new Activa e: and QC1 in the electric two wheeler segment and several upcoming offerings in the larger segment which will be launched through 2025.
    2W Sales and Exports Nov 2024 – Domestic
    TVS Motor sales grew by 6.34% YoY to 3,05,203 units over 2,87,017 units sold in the same month last year. Like all the other 6 two wheeler makers on this list, TVS also suffered a 21.84% MoM decline. It was followed by Bajaj Auto with a 6.86% YoY and 20.44% YoY and MoM decline in sales to 2,03,611 units.
    Bajaj Freedom CNG, currently a high sales performer in the company lineup becomes even more affordable to buyers with a recent Rs 5,000-10,000 price cut. Suzuki saw a 7.11% YoY growth to 78,333 units while it suffered a 25.35% MoM decline. Royal Enfield also saw its YoY and MoM sales dip to 72,236 units relating to a 3.86% YoY and 29.10% MoM de-growth.
    Two Wheeler Exports Nov 2024
    In global markets, these 6 leading two wheeler makers saw improved performance. Sales were up 31.58% YoY to 3,37,562 units over 2,56,548 units sold in Nov 2023. MoM sales also improved, albeit marginally by 0.45% from 3,36,035 units sold in Oct 2024. It was Bajaj Auto that led the export list with 1,64,465 unit sales last month to see a 26.07% YoY and 3.79% MoM improvement.
    2W Sales and Exports Nov 2024 – Exports
    Bajaj Auto commands a 48.72% share on this list. It was the only two wheeler maker to account for exports above the 1 lakh unit mark. At No. 2 on the export list was TVS with 87,150 units exported last month which related to a 33.90% YoY growth from 65,086 units shipped in the same month last year. The MoM performance however ended negatively with a 0.70% decline from 87,760 units exported in Oct 2024.
    Honda’s exports also grew significantly, with 39,861 units shipped last month, reflecting a 46.70% YoY growth. Hero followed with 20,028 units shipped last month and a 35.65% YoY growth. However, both Honda and Hero suffered a MoM decline in exports by 10.61% and 7.65% respectively. Suzuki (16,037 units) and Royal Enfield (10,021 units) showed off positive performance last month with exports surging 14.87% and 95.95% respectively. These two automakers also saw its MoM exports end positively.
    Total (Sales + Exports) – YoY vs MoM
    In Nov 2024, taking into account total domestic and export sales for two-wheelers in India, numbers stood at 18,69,610 units. This showed off strong YoY growth at 3.44% while MoM sales declined by 22.08% from 23,99,422 units sold in Oct 2024. Honda led the market with 4,72,749 unit sales, a 5.56% YoY growth but 20.91% MoM decline.
    2W Sales and Exports Nov 2024 – Total Sales
    Hero followed with 4,56,805 unit sales last month, a 6.36% YoY and 32.26% MoM decline while TVS had a total of 3,92,353 units sold in both domestic and global markets reflecting an 11.43% YoY growth but a 17.96% MoM decline. Bajaj Auto (3,68,076 units), Suzuki (94,370 units) and Royal Enfield (82,257 units) each saw its YoY total sales improved though MoM sales performance ended in the red with double digit de-growth. More