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      Bajaj Sales Breakup March 2023 – Pulsar, Platina, CT, Chetak, Dominar

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      Image – MRD VlogsBajaj Chetak electric has accounted for the highest percentage growth in domestic markets in March 2023
      Bajaj Auto Limited has seen outstanding demand in domestic markets for its two wheeler range. Exports on the other hand fell significantly with most models showing off a YoY de-growth. Total sales (domestic + exports) stood at 2,33,827 units in March 2023 down from 2,47,933 units sold in March 2022. It was however, a MoM growth from total sales (domestic + exports) which had stood at 2,18,975 units in Feb 2023.
      Bajaj Auto sales in domestic markets improved by 41.22 percent to 1,45,873 units in March 2023 from 1,03,292 units sold in March 2022. This was volume growth of 42,581 units. It was the Pulsar range that topped sales charts with 1,00,252 units sold in the past month, a 48.88 percent YoY growth from 67,339 units sold in March 2022.
      Bajaj 2W Domestic Sales Breakup March 2023
      The Pulsar range commands a 68.73 percent share. It was the Pulsar 125cc that received the most attention with 60,352 units sold last month, up 52.07 percent from 39,687 units sold in March 2022. Pulsar 200cc (17,156 units) and Pulsar 250cc (9,144 units) posted a YoY growth while Pulsar 150cc saw sales dip to 13,600 units in the past month from 18,044 units sold in March 2022 relating to a 24.63 percent YoY de-growth.
      Sales of the Bajaj Platina also improved by 27.30 percent YoY to 34,311 units from 26,952 units sold in March 2022. Platina currently commands a 23.52 percent share on this list. De-growth was seen in the case of Bajaj CT which dipped 15.93 percent to 4,381 units in March 2023 from 5,211 units sold in March 2022. It was the CT110cc that saw sales dip 52.29 percent to 2,486 units while CT125cc sales stood at 1,895 units.
      Bajaj 2W Sales Breakup March 2023
      Bajaj Chetak electric scooter sales zoomed by 249.30 percent on a YoY basis to 3,514 units in March 2023 from 1,006 units sold in March 2022 relating to a 2,508 unit volume growth. The 2023 Bajaj Chetak is in the making and is said to come in with an increased range which could be around 18 km more than that seen on its current counterpart.
      Bajaj 2W Sales Breakup March 2023
      Sales of Bajaj Avenger (1,952 units) and Dominar (1,463 units) posted YoY growth at 16.19 percent and 32.52 percent respectively in March 2023. Of this, the Avenger 200cc received more demand at 1,572 units over the Avenger 250cc of which only 380 units were sold last month. Dominar, on the other hand, had 820 units of its 500cc model sold in the month while there had been 643 units of the 250cc sold. Bajaj Auto has recently registered three new names – Bajaj Aura, Bajaj Racer and Bajaj Hammer; likely for upcoming new motorcycles / scooters / EVs.
      Bajaj Boxer, Pulsar Top Exports Charts – March 2023
      Bajaj Auto has seen its exports fall by 39.19 percent YoY. Exports stood at 87,954 units in March 2023 down from 1,44,641 units shipped in March 2022. This was volume de-growth of 56,687 units. Bajaj Boxer was most in demand globally with 40,252 units sold in March 2023, down 55.28 percent over 90,016 units sold in March 2022. This was a 49,764 unit volume de-growth with the Boxer commanding a 45.76 percent share on this list. Boxer 110cc had 22,426 units shipped last month while Boxer 150cc saw 11,914 units exported in March 2023 along with 5,912 units of Boxer 125cc.
      Bajaj 2W Exports Breakup March 2023
      The Pulsar range had 18,646 units shipped in the past month, a 17.67 percent YoY de-growth from 22,648 units sold in March 2022. Pulsar 200cc was the most in demand with 13,692 units shipped last month, a growth of 42.36 percent from 9,618 units sold in March 2022. There were also 2,340 units of Pulsar 250cc, 1,657 units of Pulsar 125cc and 957 units of Pulsar 150cc shipped to global markets in March 2023.
      Exports of Bajaj CT improved just marginally by 0.29 percent YoY to 16,416 units with the CT 110 cc commanding a major share of 8,136 units in March 2023. There were also 7,992 units of CT 125cc and 288 units of CY 150cc shipped, both of which saw lower YoY exports.
      Bajaj Discover (8,952 units) and Dominar (2,440 units) each posted YoY de-growth of 15.67 percent and 8.68 percent respectively. Avenger sales improved by 190.41 percent YoY to 636 units in March 2023 from 219 units sold in March 2022. Out of this, there were 444 units of Avenger 250cc sold and 192 units of Avenger 200cc sold last month. Platina exports also fell 70.88 percent to just 612 units in March 2023 from 2,102 units sold in March 2022. It was Platina 110cc that received more attention with 324 units sold in March 2023 along with 288 units of Platina 125cc. More

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      Royal Enfield Classic 350 Bobber Spied – Single Seat, White Tyre Wall

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      Royal Enfield Classic 350 Bobber SpiedRE Classic 350 Bobber will rival the Jawa Bobber and Perak – Launch expected in coming months
      Royal Enfield has an impressive 350cc portfolio based on their new gen J-series platform. We have the Classic 350, Meteor 350 and Hunter 350 motorcycles. There is scope for portfolio expansion as revealed in Royal Enfield’s annual report. At least two more motorcycles will be launched on the J series platform. These are Bullet 350 and Classic 350 Bobber.
      Royal Enfield already offers a Classic 350 with a single seat. But they are also working on a Bobber 350, based on Classic 350 which will get slightly more changes. The first-ever RE Classic 350 Bobber test mule has now been spied on test in Chennai. Thanks to automotive enthusiast Prabhu for sharing these exclusive spy shots. From the image, we can see almost everything that is different from the current Classic 350.
      Royal Enfield Classic 350 Bobber Spied
      Classic 350 is the highest selling RE. It almost touched 25K units sales mark last month. The main draw for this motorcycle it excels in the balancing act. It has a perfect amount of old-world panache, modern tech and riding dynamics. With the Bobber, Royal Enfield is hoping to retain much of it. As such, there are no changes to design and body panels.
      Wheelbase looks the same as the C350. Thus retaining the ride and handling behaviour of Classic 350. New blackened and beefier exhaust, a new taller handlebar, blackened ORVMs, blackened wire-spoke rims, teal-walled tyres and rear tail lights and indicators from Super Meteor 650 are the only changes we can spot.
      Royal Enfield 350cc platform launch plans
      LED headlight from Super Meteor is expected. The recent test mule was seen wearing emission testing equipment with the new exhaust, which looks like a larger unit as compared to current Classic 350. Exhaust tip is much larger in aperture and could unlock a bass-heavy aural experience.
      Royal Enfield Classic 350 Bobber vs Classic 350 Single seat
      The handlebar is tall and reminds of custom Choppers from the West. It enables an upright seating position and a relaxed rider’s triangle. Single seat looks good enough to provide optimum comfort. The 349cc air/oil-cooled engine will generate 20.2 bhp and 27 Nm, coupled with a 5-speed gearbox. A dual-channel ABS could be standard.
      The Bobber space in India to get a new champion?
      We would have liked an extended wheelbase. Because that is what makes a Bobber, a Bobber. Both Jawa Perak and 42 Bobber perfectly encapsulate this with a 1,485 mm wheelbase. If RE Bobber 350 gets the 1,390 mm wheelbase, which is same as seen on Classic 350, it could come off as a regular Classic 350 with an aftermarket exhaust and handlebar.
      Jawa Bobber price is Rs. 2,09,187 (ex-sh). RE Classic 350 Bobber prices are expected to be in a similar range. Launch is expected later this year. Upon launch it will rival Jawa Bobber and Perak, which offers a more performant engine (30.2 bhp and 32.7 Nm), liquid-cooling setup, 6-speed gearbox, fatter rear tyres and that quintessential Bobber look, among others.  More

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      Simple ONE Launch by Simple Energy – Counting Down to May 23, 2023

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      Simple One Electric Scooter Launch DateBreaking the Paradox: Simple ONE – A Premium Affordable electric scooter – countdown to launch – May 23, 2023
      Simple Energy, a new player in the electric vehicle and clean energy space, has announced the launch of its highly anticipated electric two-wheeler, the Simple ONE, on May 23, 2023, in Bangalore. The manufacturer aims to offer a high-quality product with premium features and technology, while keeping the price point affordable for Indian consumers. Delivery of Simple One electric scooters are expected to start soon after launch.
      The phrase “premium affordable EV” might seem paradoxical, but in the case of the Simple ONE, it could be justified. The company intends to disrupt the market with a compelling alternative to conventional two-wheelers that run on fossil fuels. Its unique value proposition offers high-quality premium features at an affordable price point, making electric mobility accessible to a wider audience.
      Fastest, Safest, Longest range – Simple One e-scooter
      The company has emphasized performance and safety in the Simple ONE. It has used superlatives such as “fastest,” “safest,” and “longest” to describe the product, indicating that it will be a top-performing electric scooter. Although exact numbers for speed, range, and safety features are not provided, the company has placed a high emphasis on ensuring that the Simple ONE stands out in terms of performance and safety features.
      The battery pack of the Simple ONE is said to meet safety standards, highlighting the company’s commitment to safety. The claim of the “longest range” is significant as it addresses the issue of range anxiety, making it attractive to customers who prioritize performance and safety when making purchasing decisions for their electric two-wheelers.

      Wrong buddy.
      — Suhas Rajkumar (@suhasrajkumar) April 26, 2023

      Simple Energy’s Simple ONE: Bringing a New Wave of Innovation to Electric Two-Wheelers
      The launch of the Simple ONE is a significant step towards starting business for Simple Energy. The electric two-wheeler has been eagerly awaited by customers who have been waiting for months since booking their orders. With this launch, Simple Energy aims to cater to the growing demand for electric two-wheelers in India and meet the needs of growing electric scooter demand.
      It remains to be seen how the market will respond to this new offering, and whether it can carve out a niche for itself in the highly competitive Indian EV market. However, the launch of the Simple ONE is a promising step towards making electric mobility accessible and affordable to a wider audience.
      Simple Energy’s Simple ONE: The Next Big Thing in Indian Electric Two-Wheeler Market
      Suhas Rajkumar, Founder & CEO, of Simple Energy, said, “When we set out to make the Simple ONE, our aim was to provide to our valued customers a product that matches up to the level of the global players. To that end, we have spent the last 2 years vigorously testing our product in the most demanding conditions and ensuring that the result is the best in the business.
      With the official confirmation on the launch of Simple ONE, we would also like to announce that we are the first OEM to comply with the Automotive Industry Standards (AIS) 156 amendment 3 that ensures greater battery safety. Simple ONE is now faster, improved on aesthetics, on battery systems and powertrains and offers unmatched safety. We have successfully addressed the issues during testing and are confident that our product will stand true to the wait.” More

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      TVS Sales Breakup March 2023 – Jupiter, Apache, Ntorq, iQube, XL 100

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      New TVS Apache 160TVS has registered YoY growth in domestic two wheeler sales in March 2023 while exports fell significantly
      TVS Motor Company registered a growth of 4.76 percent in two wheeler sales (domestic + exports) in March 2023. Total sales increased from 2,90,810 units sold in March 2022 to 3,05,371 units in March 2023. It was the TVS Jupiter that found most demand in domestic markets while it was the Star City 125 that commanded the export list. There were a total of 2,40,780 units sold in March 2023, relating to a 22.25 percent YoY growth when compared to 1,96,956 units sold in March 2022. This was a 43,824 unit volume growth.
      TVS Jupiter was the highest selling model in the company lineup in domestic markets. Sales surged 5.48 percent YoY to 58,874 units in March 2023 from 55,813 units sold in March 2022. This related to a volume growth of 3,061 units with the Jupiter commanding a 24.45 percent share. TVS Jupiter was also the second best-selling scooter in FY 2023 after the Honda Activa, with 7,29,546 units sold in FY 2023.
      TVS Sales Breakup March 2023 – Jupiter No 1
      At No. 2 was the TVS XL100 moped saw its sales dip 2.22 percent YoY to 36,814 units in March 2023 from 37,649 units sold in March 2022. It was followed by the TVS Apache with a 32.02 percent YoY growth to 36,226 units in the past month from 27,439 units sold in the same month a year ago. It was a 155.62 percent YoY growth for the TVS Raider of which the company sold 31,002 units in March 2023 from 12,128 units sold in March 2022. This was a difference of 18,874 units with the Raider commanding a 12.88 percent share on this list.
      TVS Ntorq sales also improved by 14.52 percent YoY to 27,284 units in March 2023 but the highest percentage growth was seen for the TVS iQube that increased by 754.03 percent YoY. Sales of the iQube stood at 15,364 units in March 2023 from 1,799 units sold in March 2022. This was the 5th consecutive month that the iQube Electric has registered sales above 10,000 units.
      TVS Domestic Sales 2W – March 2023
      TVS also posted YoY sales growth for the Sport (13,158 units) and Pep+ (8,330 units) by 14.06 percent and 38.28 percent respectively. However, thereafter, each of the models saw lower sales. Radeon sales dipped 14.39 percent to 8,186 units while Zest sales were down by 35.66 percent to 3,201 units. Star City sales fell by 66.31 percent to 1,931 units and RR310 fell by 13.68 percent to 410 units in March 2023.
      TVS Domestic Sales 2W – March 2023
      TVS Exports dip in March 2023
       Exports fell 31.18 percent in March 2023 to 64,591 units, down from 93,854 units exported in March 2022. This was a volume de-growth of 29,263 units. It was the TVS Star City 125 that topped the export list in March 2023 with 27,136 units shipped, down 22.92 percent from 35,206 units exported in March 2022. The Star City 125 currently commands a 42.01 percent share on this list.
      Jupiter exports stood at 9,132 units with a 14.14 percent share. It was followed by the Ntorq with a 132.27 percent YoY growth to 5,370 units in March 2023, up from 2,312 units sold in March 2022. YoY exports dipped for the Apache (5,036 units) and Sport (3,855 units) by 51.28 percent and 23.42 percent respectively. Raider exports also fell by 52.20 percent YoY to 3,346 units in March 2023 from 7,000 units exported in March 2022.
      TVS Exports 2W – March 2023
      TVS Wego exports were at 1,262 units while Victor also posted a YoY growth of 133.33 percent to 1,120 units from 480 units sold in March 2022. TVS XL exports were at 678 units while RR310 exports improved by 50 percent to 90 units from 60 units shipped in March 2022. More

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      Honda Shine 100 Specs Leak – Less Power Than Splendor Plus

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      Honda Shine 100In addition to Hero Splendor Plus, Honda Shine 100 will also rival other 100cc bikes such as HF Deluxe and Bajaj Platina 100
      For several years, Hero Splendor Plus has dominated the entry-level 100cc commuter motorcycle segment. Platina 100 has also been there all along, but its sales are no match for Splendor Plus. Now, there’s a new challenger in the form of Honda Shine 100. Whether it can dethrone Splendor Plus remains to be seen.
      Honda Shine 100 was launched in March 2023 at a starting price of Rs 64,900. At this price point, it is positioned between HF Deluxe and Splendor Plus. Bookings are currently open for Shine 100 and deliveries are expected to commence from May 2023. Ahead of that, some new details about the bike have been revealed via type approval certificate.
      Honda Shine 100 homologated – specs leak
      Powering Honda Shine 100 is a 98.98 cc motor that generates 5.43 kw or 7.28 hp of peak power. In comparison, Splendor Plus has a 97.2 cc engine that makes 5.9 kW or 7.91 hp. While Shine 100 has slightly less power output, it remains to be seen how much difference it makes in real driving conditions.
      The type approval certificate does not reveal torque numbers. It is likely to be close to that of Splendor that churns out 8.05 Nm of peak torque at 6,000 rpm. One of the key reasons why Splendor is popular is that the bike offers a near-perfect combination of fuel efficiency and agile performance. Honda will probably be looking to achieve something similar with Shine 100.
      Honda Shine 100 Specs Leak
      Based on teasers, it is clear that fuel efficiency is one of the focus areas for Shine 100. The bike could deliver a mileage of around 65 kmpl, which is almost the same as that of Splendor Plus. Many consider Bajaj Platina 100 as the most fuel efficient 100cc bike, delivering around 70-75 kmpl. However, results will vary based on driving conditions, age and condition of bike, riding style, etc.
      Honda Shine 100 has GVW (gross vehicle weight) of 269 kg. The bike is 1,955 mm long, 754 mm wide and 1,050 mm tall. Wheelbase is 1,245 mm. These numbers are quite close to that of Splendor, which measures 2000 X 720 X 1052 mm (Length X Width X height) and has a wheelbase of 1,236 mm. Shine 100 has ground clearance of 168 mm, as compared to 165 mm of Splendor Plus. Seat height is almost the same at 786 mm for Shine 100 and 785 mm for Splendor.
      Can Shine 100 become the top selling commuter bike?
      In terms of pricing, Shine 100 has a clear advantage over Splendor Plus. Earlier, people who could not afford Splendor would usually consider HF Deluxe, Platina 100 or HF 100. Perceptually, quite a few consumers may now look at Shine 100 as the next best alternative to Splendor.
      And based on its performance and fuel efficiency, Shine 100 can even emerge as the most preferred 100cc commuter. It will be interesting to see how the 100cc commuter segment shapes up after the arrival of Honda Shine 100. More

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      Royal Enfield Sales Breakup March 2023 – Classic, Bullet, Meteor, Himalayan

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      Image – JamieRoyal Enfield had the Classic 350 at the top of domestic sales charts while the Hunter 350 was most in demand in global markets
      Royal Enfield has announced sales for March 2023. During the past month, the company sold a total (domestic + exports) of 72,235 units, down from 67,677 units sold in March 2022. On a MoM basis, total sales (domestic and exports) stood at 71,544 units. The company has reported a growth in terms of YoY domestic sales while MoM sales dipped 7.06 percent. Exports on the other hand have seen growth both on a YoY and MoM basis.
      Royal Enfield sold 59,884 units in domestic markets in March 2023. This was a 2.41 percent YoY growth over 58,477 units sold in March 2022 relating to a 1,407 unit volume increase. MoM sales on the other hand dipped by 7.06 percent from 64,436 units sold in March 2022.
      Royal Enfield Sales Breakup March 2023
      It was the RE Classic 350 that topped sales charts with 24,466 units sold last month, down 25.17 percent as against 32,694 units sold in March 2022. The RE Classic 350 commands a 40.86 percent share. MoM sales were also in the red, down 10.91 percent from 27,461 units sold in Feb 2023. The RE Hunter was at No. 2 with 10,824 units sold in March 2023 with an 18.07 percent share on this list. It was a MoM de-growth of 16.26 percent from 12,925 units sold in Feb 2023.
      Sales growth was seen for the RE Bullet 350 with improved 3.77 percent YoY and 4.41 percent MoM to 8,595 units in March 2023. There were 8,283 units sold in March 2022 and 8,232 units sold in Feb 2023. This took its share percentage up to 14.35 from 12.78 percent MoM.
      Royal Enfield Sales March 2023
      Thereafter Royal Enfield has suffered de-growth in terms of domestic sales of the Meteor 350 (6,211 units), Electra 350 (3,374 units) and Himalayan (2,633 units). However, sales of the 650 Twins improved both YoY and MoM to 1,488 units. The Super Meteor 650, a new entrant to this list, featured ahead of the 650 Twins with 2,293 units sold in the past month and a share of 3.83 percentage above the 2.48 percent share held by the 650 Twins.
      Royal Enfield Sales March 2023
      RE Hunter Tops Exports in March 2023
      Posting growth in exports by 34.25 percent YoY and 73.76 percent MoM, Royal Enfield exported 12,351 units in the past month, up from 9,200 units sold in March 2022 and over 7,108 units exported in Feb 2023. RE Hunter 350 as the most exported model in its portfolio. There were 4,814 units shipped in the past month, a MoM growth of 192.64 percent over 1,645 units exported in Feb 2023. This took the Hunter 350 share to 38.98 percent in March 2023 from 23.14 percent held in Feb 2023.
      At No. 2 was the Classic 350 with 0.62 percent YoY growth to 2,597 units in March 2023 from 2,581 units sold in March 2022. MoM exports improved by 50.03 percent from 1,731 units shipped in Feb 2023. Exports of the Super Meteor were ahead of the Meteor, 650 Twins and Himalayan in March 2023. Super Meteor exports stood at 1,678 units in the past month.  
      Royal Enfield Exports March 2023
      At No. 4, Meteor 350 exports increased substantially by 56.88 percent YoY and 62.64 percent MoM to 1,641 units in March 2023. This was against 1,046 units shipped in March 2022 and 1,009 units exported in Feb 2023. Exports of both the 650 Twins and Himalayan dipped YoY and MoM. 650 Twin exports fell 51.60 percent YoY to 1,051 units from 2,097 units sold in March 2022 while it was a 47.98 percent MoM de-growth from 1,951 units shipped in Feb 2023. Himalayan exports were down to 606 units in the past month, a YoY de-growth of 82.57 percent from 3,476 units shipped in March 2022 and down 21.50 percent MoM from 772 units exported in Feb 2023. More

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      Top 10 500cc+ Motorcycles March 2023 – Super Meteor Beats 650 Twins

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      RE Super Meteor 650 is the victor of big bike Royal Rumble and takes the company’s share in the 500cc+ motorcycles sales charts to 92.29%Image – Saurabh Dubey
      Big bike sales witnessed a paradigm shift in March 2023. In February 2023, the segment saw a 47.47% YoY decline. RE 650 twins at 52.61% YoY decline. Despite that RE had an 81.14% market share. There is a new champion for 500cc+ motorcycle sales and it is none other than the recently launched RE Super Meteor 650.
      It alone sold 2,293 units with a 55.97% market share. RE 650 Twins (Interceptor and Continental GT 650 combined) sold 1,488 units with 21.37% YoY growth, gaining 262 units in volume. The RE 650 Twins fared better than the previous month with 1,170 units and boast a 36.32% market share. Combined, Royal Enfield enjoys a 92.29% market share. First time for RE.
      500cc+ motorcycle sales March 2023
      In third place, we have the Kawasaki Z900, the least expensive 4-cylinder motorcycle in India. It sold 63 units and registered a hefty 530% YoY growth as opposed to 10 units sold a year ago. Triumph Tiger 900 takes 4th spot with 41 units sold. It gained 156.25% YoY. Kawasaki Ninja 650 and ZX-10R sold 32 and 31 units and both of them saw a 3.03% and 34.04% YoY decline respectively.
      Ninja 1000 saw a similar pattern too with 20 units sold last month and shrunk by 64.91% YoY in sales. ZX-10R lost 16 units YoY and Ninja 1000 SX lost 37 units YoY. Kawasaki Z650 and Versys 1000 fared much better. They saw 13 and 12 units sold in their names and registered 116.6% and 20% YoY growth respectively. Triumph Rocket III has the largest capacity motorcycle engine in the world and enjoys quite a fan following. Despite that, it managed to sell 12 units and witnessed a 7.69% decline YoY.
      500cc+ Motorcycle Sales March 2023
      Single-Digit sales figures
      Kawasaki Vulcan S, Triumph Trident, Speed Twin and Tiger 1200 sold 9 units each. Only the Kawasaki Vulcan S saw positive growth of 125% YoY. Triumph Tiger Sport 660 is the only motorcycle on this list to sell 7 units. It saw a decline of 69.57% as opposed to 23 units sold a year ago. Suzuki Hayabusa and Harley-Davidson Sportster S sold 5 units each.
      Harley saw 400% YoY growth and Hayabusa sales declined YoY by 28.57%. Hayabusa was the third-highest seller on this list just last month. Suzuki Katana, Triumph Bonneville T120, Speed Twin and Harley-Davidson Fat Boy 114 sold 4 units each, with no growth to report. The Supercharged Kawasaki Z H2 and Harley-Davidson Heritage Classic sold 3 units each. Kawasaki Z650 RS, Triumph Street Scrambler, Bonneville Speedmaster, Speed Triple, Harley-Davidson Fat Bob and Road Glide sold 2 units each. Kawasaki Versys 650, Triumph Street Triple and Bonneville Bobber sold 1 unit each.
      Honda needs more appealing Big-Bikes, pronto!
      Triumph Street Twin, Bonneville T100, Harley-Davidson Pan America, Standard, Street Glide, 883 Iron, Street Bob, Aprilia RSV4 Factory, Tuono and Suzuki V-Strom 650 sold 0 units. Surprisingly, Honda contributed 0 units to this segment. Africa Twin, CBR650R, CBR 1000RR-R, Goldwing and others sold 0 units.
      In total, the 500cc+ motorcycle sales chart for the month March 2023 saw 4,097 units sold with 153.06% YoY growth as opposed to 1,619 units sold in March 2022. Volume gain stood at 2,478 units. Yamaha will soon join the brigade with YZF-R7, MT-07 and MT-09. More

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      Practical Performance Review of the Ampere Primus Electric Scooter

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      Ampere Primus Ride Experience and Review – Offering a Balanced Mix of Features and DesignAmpere Primus Electric Scooter Review
      During our visit to the manufacturing facility in Ranipet, Tamil Nadu, we had the opportunity to take the Ampere Primus electric scooter for a spin. Primus is the flagship model recently launched by Ampere by Greaves Cotton Ltd. at a launch price of Rs 1.10 lakhs ex-showroom. After our ride experience, we have mixed feelings about the scooter. Moreso in terms of trying to understand which demographic this model is targeting. In this review, we share our experience of spending half a day with the Primus and welcome your thoughts on it.
      In my opinion, the Ampere Primus is a well-built, and well-sized scooter. The older you are, the more well-groomed an option it seems. That being said, it may not appeal to the younger generation, the way some of the trendy scooters like Ather or Ola S1 do. Comparing the Primus to such models would be like comparing apples with oranges, as the Primus has its own set of features that cater to a different demographic.
      Ampere Primus Electric Scooter Review
      Ampere Primus: The Flagship Model by Greaves Cotton Ltd
      Ampere has been in the market for about 15 years. And has always targeted customers who prioritise the benefits of electric scooters over the trendy features offered by other models. This applies to both their b2c customers and b2b clients. It is important to note that Ampere is known for building scooters that represent a mode of transportation, rather than being another gadget with a few additional features.
      Just like how the Nokias back in the day represented a telephone for the most part, unlike today’s smartphones in which one of the fine print features is making cellular calls. The company has one of the largest dealer networks in India, with a presence in over 400 towns. And has shown consistent growth in the industry. To understand Ampere Primus, it’s essential to understand the company’s approach to electric scooters.
      Ampere Primus Electric Scooter Review
      Ampere Primus: The Electric Scooter for Modern Traditionalists
      Styling of the Ampere Primus electric scooter is likely to appeal to the older generation. A buyer group that’s used to riding or being around scooters like the Activa or Access on a regular basis. This is an advantage for Ampere, as tenured buyers often prefer familiar designs, and conventional colours.
      Ampere Primus Electric Scooter Review
      In this demographic, familiarity can be equated with trustworthiness. However, the design of the Primus is not outdated. The scooter has multicoloured trims and accents all over the body. This adds a contemporary touch to the conventional design elements. The LED headlamp is a modern feature, while the halogen tail lamp and indicators follow a more traditional pattern.
      Ampere Primus: A Blend of Classic and Contemporary
      Ampere Primus electric scooter offers several such examples of mixed features. For instance, it has sporty black-coloured alloy wheels with a 12-inch diameter at both ends. But features drum brakes on both, the front and rear wheel. The scooter features a digital instrument console but with an LCD panel that has a monochromatic segmented display. It also has Bluetooth connectivity to a smartphone app, but currently only for Android users.
      Ampere Primus Electric Scooter Review
      While the list can go on, it is clear that the Ampere Primus is designed for users who prioritize the throttle more than any other feature on a scooter. But even such users would expect a disc brake at the front. Especially after test riding the Primus, and experiencing the delay in halting even after clutching both the spongy levers to the fullest.
      Its practical performance is definitely admirable. The e-scooter won’t leave you disappointed or stranded in the middle of an overtake. Performance, whether solo or with a pillion, is more than enough to ride without worrying about maxing out at any time in power mode, whether in dense traffic or on an open road. Eco and City modes are functional and convenient to use.
      Ampere Primus Electric Scooter Review
      What Makes the Ampere Primus Stand Out in the Electric Scooter Market?
      Primus claims to do 0-40 kmph in a matter of 4.2 seconds and has a rated top speed of 77 kmph. However, during our test ride on a clean stretch of highway, the speedometer showed well past 85 kmph. And it reached that speed quite effortlessly.
      The 4kW mid-mounted motor is the prime mover of the Primus. This is connected to the rear wheel via belt drive. Surprisingly, it’s also remarkably quiet. It took a while to realize that the vehicle is quietly efficient at both low and higher speeds. Ampere emits a relatively subtle sound, unlike some other e-scooters such as the Ather that have a distinctive sci-fi-like hum.
      Ampere Primus Electric Scooter Review
      Ampere Primus: Battery Performance
      Powering the Primus motor is a 3 kWh LFP non-removable battery, which is a Lithium Iron Phosphate / Lithium Ferro Phosphate variant of the well-known Lithium-ion battery. This type of battery is known for its safety and longer lifespan, as it has a much lower tendency to overheat or cause thermal mishaps. In fact, it has a longer life cycle compared to standard Li-ion batteries. This means that riders may not have to change the battery even after years of regular usage. However, it is worth noting that the company hasn’t provided a long warranty period for the battery, which is something to consider.
      Primus takes approximately 5 hours to charge from 0-100 percent with the included 15A charger. If you prefer faster charging, you can purchase a 25A charger from Ampere separately. This can charge the scooter in just 2.5 hours from 0-100 percent. The battery is capable of providing an ARAI-certified range of 107 km in ECO mode at full charge. In real world riding, you can expect a range of around 70-80 km while switching between City and Power modes. Additionally, the scooter has a dedicated Reverse button, which can be used by pushing it after coming to a complete halt. This, while simultaneously giving throttle as usual to make the scooter move backward, albeit at a slower pace.
      Ampere Primus Electric Scooter Review
      Ampere Primus: A Practical and Efficient Mode of Transportation
      Another accolade that the Ampere Primus deserves is for its impressive ride quality. Despite the suspension being on the stiffer side, the ride is well balanced between comfort on rough roads, and handling on smoother ones. The e-scooter has an expansive footboard, a sizeable seat, well-positioned and large mirrors, slightly forward-set handlebars, and provides a smooth ride, making it an excellent choice for families.
      Underseat storage is quite decent at a capacity of 22-litres. But it is mostly occupied by the jumbo-sized 15A charger. Even without the charger, the space cannot accommodate a full-face helmet. This may not be preferred by those using a full face helmet. It appears that a half-faced helmet can fit comfortably.
      Ampere Primus Electric Scooter Review
      Ampere Primus: Should You Choose It Over Other Electric Scooters?
      Overall, the Ampere team deserves appreciation for their efforts in developing their first indigenous scooter. Taking it from paper sketch to sales brochure within 12 months. Having ridden Ampere’s earlier models, we can say that they have made significant improvements in terms of build quality, fit and finish, and overall product design. However, Primus is not yet competitive in pricing compared to established players who have better technology and more attractive designs. With the e-scooter market attracting faster and higher volumes of competition than ICE scooters ever had, we hope to see Ampere improve their engineering game or pricing strategy to sustain their market position in the coming years.
      To conclude, if you’re buying an electric scooter, test ride the Ampere Primus before considering any other options. Its impressive acceleration and top speed, longer battery life-cycle, and comfortable ride quality make it a compelling option. While it may not be as competitively priced as some of its rivals, its build quality and overall product offering are still impressive, and it may be worth the investment in the long run. More