More stories

  • in

    Bajaj Chetak Electric Scooter Launched In 20 Cities – 11 States

    Bajaj Chetak Electric ScooterChetak has quite a few USPs including steel body, IP67 water resistance, soft-touch switches and solid gear driveAfter roughly two decades when Bajaj had made the shift from scooters to focus exclusively on motorcycles, the company re-entered the scooter segment with Chetak in 2020. At the time of its launch, Chetak electric scooter was offered only in Pune and Bengaluru. Since then, the company has continuously expanded Chetak’s presence in new states and cities.Bajaj Chetak Electric Scooter – 20 cities coveredAs of now, Chetak is available across 11 states. These include Delhi, Maharashtra, Karnataka, Andhra Pradesh, Goa, Daman & Diu, Gujarat, Kerala, Tamil Nadu, Telangana and West Bengal. Chetak is available in 20 cities. It includes Visakhapatnam, Mapusa, Surat, Bangalore, Mangalore, Mysore, Hubli, Cochin, Kozhikode, Mumbai, Pune, Nasik, Nagpur, Aurangabad, Chennai, Madurai, Coimbatore, Hyderabad and Kolkata.Now that the pandemic situation has started to ease, Bajaj will be working on Chetak’s expansion plans in a more aggressive manner. According to Rakesh Sharma, executive director at Bajaj Auto, there are plans to double Chetak’s network over the next few weeks. It seems doable since Bajaj is primarily utilizing its existing KTM dealerships for Chetak. Some cities do have exclusive experience centres for Chetak.Established manufacturers like Bajaj have ready resources to make new products available across India at short notice. TVS also has this advantage, which it has been utilizing for its iQube electric scooter. TVS is also working proactively to make iQube available in more cities across the country.Sales Last 12 MonthsChetakiQubeFeb-21150203Mar-2190355Apr-21508307May-21310Jun-21452639Jul-21730540Aug-21364649Sep-21642766Oct-21835395Nov-21511699Dec-217281,212Jan-221,2681,529Avg Per Month526608Total6,3097,294In comparison, newer companies have to take care of both production and expanding the dealer network. Everything has to be done from scratch essentially. In electric two-wheeler space, startups like Ather Energy, Okinawa, Ampere, Revolt, etc. have had to face such challenges.Some startups like Ola Electric have taken a completely different approach, wherein the entire sales and after-sales process is managed online. Ola does not operate any dealerships, which can have significant advantages in terms of cost cutting and operations management. However, it remains to be seen if this radical approach to sales and distribution will continue to be beneficial with a larger customer base.Startups leadEven though established players like Bajaj and TVS have ready resources in terms of sales and distribution, it is startups that are leading in electric two-wheeler space. EVs from companies like Hero Electric, Okinawa, Ather, Ampere are currently ahead of Chetak and iQube in terms of sales. Several other startups including Ola Electric and Simple Energy will be fighting for the top slots in this space in coming months.While Chetak is a well-equipped scooter, its high pricing makes it inaccessible to a significant percentage of EV buyers. With no indications of a price revision, it appears that Bajaj will continue to position Chetak as a premium lifestyle EV product. Playing the numbers game with Chetak may not be the company’s priority right now. It is possible that an entirely new, affordably priced mass market product could be launched in future. More

  • in

    Bajaj Motorcycle Prices Feb 2022 – Pulsar, Dominar, Avenger, Platina, CT100

    Image – Patna BikesPrices of all motorcycles from Bajaj have been increased – As is the case with every other OEMBajaj has announced prices for its 2022 lineup in India. This list includes a total of 26 motorcycles and excludes the only scooter offering- Chetak Electric. Some of the models have seen a revision in prices, although in most cases the hike in prices is nominal.Bajaj CT, Platina Prices Feb 2022The Bajaj lineup starts with the CT range of bikes- CT100, CT110 and CT110X. Prices for CT100 start at Rs 53,696 while CT 110 gets a starting price of Rs 58,925. CT110X, which is a retro-style version of CT110, is offered in two variants- one with a kick start and the other with an electric start.The former is priced at Rs 58,272 whereas the latter is offered at a price of Rs 63,808. The bikemaker’s second entry-level offering is Platina which is also offered in 100cc and 110cc avatars. The former is priced at Rs 59,309 whereas the latter is available at a price of Rs 63,846. There is also a Disc brake version of Platina 110 which is priced at Rs 68,384.Avenger & Pulsar prices Feb 2022The company has two offerings in the cruiser range- Avenger Street 150 and Avenger Cruise 220. The former is pegged at Rs 1,08,902 while the latter can be had at Rs 1,33,613. A majority of the sales volume for Bajaj comes from the Pulsar range of sporty commuter motorcycles which comprises a long list of models with different configurations.Bajaj Prices Feb 2022Pulsar series starts with Pulsar 125 which is available in drum and disc brake variants. The former variant is available at Rs 80,090 and Rs 82,701 while the latter is available at Rs 86,099 and Rs 88,931. Each variant is offered with either a single-piece seat or split seats. Prices for Pulsar 150 start at Rs 1,00,915 for the Neon variant. The standard single-disc variant of Pulsar 150 is priced at Rs 1,07,642.The twin-disc variant of Pulsar 150 has been priced at Rs 1,10,643. Pulsar 180 has been priced at Rs 1,16,653. Although the Pulsar 220F has been unofficially discontinued by Bajaj from its lineup, it continues to feature in this list. Price for the semi-faired sports tourer is pegged at Rs 1,34,566. The second offering in the 125cc category from the Pulsar brand is Pulsar NS125 which is priced at Rs 99,770.Flagship Motorcycles Prices: Pulsar 250, DominarThe Pulsar NS range gets two more models in the form of NS 160 and NS 200. Both motorcycles are offered in a solitary variant each which are priced Rs 1,19,418 and Rs 1,36,090 respectively. Pulsar RS 200 is priced at Rs 1,64,719. The latest offering in the Pulsar range of bikes is the flagship Pulsar 250 which is available in two derivatives- N250 and F250.Both motorcycles have witnessed a minute revision in prices and are now available at Rs Rs 1,39,117 and Rs 1,40,915 respectively. Bajaj offers two derivatives in the Dominar range- Dominar 250 and Dominar 400. Both are priced at Rs 1,64,307 and Rs 2,17,473 respectively. All prices mentioned are ex-showroom. More

  • in

    Bajaj Pulsar 220F Modified As A Modern Day Scrambler

    Bajaj Pulsar 220F ModifiedOne of the popular Pulsar motorcycles, semi-faired 220F is known for its sporty design and dynamic performanceCustomization ideas can strike like lightning, transforming stock versions into something truly unique, extraordinary and incredible. Latest example involves a Bajaj Pulsar 220F 2010 model that gets a scrambler-inspired makeover. The modified bike has been aptly named Pulsar 220 FSB (fastest shooting brake). This customization job has been carried out by Renovatio Motor Works.Pulsar 220 FSB key changesStarting with design and styling updates, the stock bike loses much of its fairing. It gets a new black paint in glossy finish, which significantly improves the bike’s sporty profile. Enhancing it further is blue pin striping that can be seen on the fuel tank, side panels, front fender and tail section. Alloy wheels too have the exciting mix of blue against black.At the front, the modified bike gets a customized headlight with inbuilt indicator. Stock handlebar has been replaced with new clip-on handlebars. In other changes, stock split seat has been completely removed and replaced with a handmade single piece unit. It gets sporty diamond-patterned quilted cover.Rear section of the bike has been completely transformed. It gets a fully handmade rear frame with new seat mount and tail light. A smoke wrap has been used for the tail light to ensure it blends with the blacked-out theme.Bajaj Pulsar 220F ModifiedModified Pulsar 220F gets several functional updates as well. It uses a thicker front suspension and new wider triple clamps. Rear stock suspension has been replaced with a new swingarm with linkage unit from Gabriel. Stock wheels have been replaced with thicker and wider units, shod with Pirelli Diablo Rosso II motorcycle tyres. This should improve traction to ensure better handling and control across varied ride conditions.Bajaj Pulsar 220F ModifiedAnother notable update is the sporty aftermarket exhaust. While the pipe section has brownish golden chrome finish, the exhaust canister sports a blacked-out look.Pulsar 220 FSB engine and specsModified Pulsar 220F utilizes the stock engine without any tweaks. The 220cc, 2-valve, oil-cooled, DTS-i FI motor generates 20.4 ps of max power at 8,500 rpm and 18.55 Nm of peak torque at 7,000 rpm. It is mated to a 5-speed gearbox.Bajaj Pulsar 220F ModifiedAlthough the engine is the same, the modified bike can still deliver better performance. That’s because it uses a bigger sprocket at the rear. It should be able to draw more torque. Performance could also get a boost with the new K&N air filter that replaces the stock unit. Braking system remains untouched in modified Pulsar 220F. The bike has 280 mm and 230 mm disc at front and rear, respectively.From its looks, modified Pulsar 220F comes across as a capable machine for tackling city streets. Riding stance is slightly aggressive with a low-set handlebar. The bike can make every day commutes a lot more fun and exciting. It also looks capable of getting the praise and envy of onlookers.Source More

  • in

    Bajaj Sales Jan 2022 Declines – Pulsar, CT100, Platina, Dominar, Chetak

    Image – MRD VlogsBajaj Auto has posted a 15 percent YoY decline in sales to 3,63,443 units in January 2022Bajaj Auto has reported de-growth across both sales and exports in the past month. Sales which had stood at 4,25,199 units in January 2021 dipped to 3,63,443 units in the past month.Total domestic sales (2 wheelers and CVs) dipped 12 percent to 1,49,656 units last month as against 1,70,757 units in January 2021. Total exports were also down 16 percent to 2,13,787 units as against 2,54,442 units exported in the same month of the previous year.Bajaj Sales Jan 2022Taking two wheeler sales into account, domestic sales dipped 14 percent to 1,35,496 units in January 2022 as against 1,57,404 units sold in January 2021. Two-wheelers exports were down 17 percent YoY to 1,87,934 units as compared with 2,27,532 units sold in January 2021. This took total sales in this segment to 3,23,430 units, down 16 percent over 3,84,936 units sold in January 2021.Top selling two wheelers included the Pulsar, Platina and CT100 while the Chetak e-scooter has also added to total sales. Last year, Bajaj launched the Pulsar 250 cc bike making it the most powerful in the Pulsar family. It is priced at Rs 1.38 lakhs. Bajaj is also setting up a new electric vehicle plant near Pune with an investment of Rs 300 crores. It will have an annual capacity of 5 lakh EVs per annum.Bajaj Sales Jan 2022Commercial Vehicle sales on the other hand, increased by 6 percent in domestic markets to 14,160 units in the past month, up from 13,353 units sold in January 2021. Exports dipped 4 percent to 25,853 units, down from 26,910 units shipped in January 2021. Total sales in this segment dipped 1 percent YoY to 40,013 units from 40,263 units sold in January 2021.Bajaj Auto Year-to-Date SalesBajaj Auto year to date, domestic and exports sales of two-wheelers and commercial vehicles increased 14 percent during the period April to January 2022. Total sales which had stood at 32,28,449 units in the April to January 2021 period increased to 36,95,225 units in the same period of 2022.De-growth was see only in the case of two wheeler domestic sales which dipped 3 percent to 14,37,480 units during the April-January 2022 period from 14,79,048 units in the same period of last year.Bajaj Sales YTD 2022Exports on the other hand increased 27 percent to 18,63,715 units, up from 14,64,149 units sold in April-January 2021. This took total sales in the segment to 33,01,195 units, up 12 percent from 29,43,197 units sold in the April-January 2021 period.Commercial vehicle YTD sales increased both in domestic and global markets. Total sales in this segment stood at 3,94,030 units, up 38 percent from 2,85,252 units sold in the same period of the previous year. Domestic sales growth was at 64 percent to 1,24,828 units while exports increased 29 percent YTD to 2,69,202 units, up from 2,08,995 units sold in April-January 2021. More

  • in

    Bajaj Sales, Exports Breakup Dec 2021 – Pulsar, Dominar, Platina, CT, Chetak, Avenger

    Image – An Moto ExpoBest sellers in the company lineup were Pulsar, Platina, CT, Dominar and Avenger, while Chetak saw massive YoY increase in salesBajaj Auto has posted flat YoY growth in December 2020 while exports dipped 9.96 percent. Total sales in domestic markets stood at 1,23,954 units in the past month, up 0.98 percent over 1,22,750 units sold in December 2020.Bajaj Sales Breakup Dec 2021 – Pulsar LeadsThe Bajaj Pulsar range saw sales of 64,966 units last month, down 13.86 percent over 75,421 units sold in December 2020. Currently commanding a 52.41 percent share in the company lineup, it was the Pulsar 125cc and 150cc that gained most attention with 27,900 units and 27,169 units sold respectively last month. This was a 34.64 percent de-growth in the case of Pulsar 125cc while sales of the 150cc model increased 36.13 percent YoY.Bajaj Platina sales increased 45.74 percent in December 2021 to 44,800 units, up from 30,740 units sold in December 2020. Bajaj Platina holds a 36.14 percent share. It was Platina that was the 5th best-selling two wheeler in the country in the past month. At No. 3 was the Bajaj CT. Sales dipped 40.09 percent YoY to 8,288 units, down from 13,835 units sold in December 2020 relating to a 6.69 percent share.Bajaj Avenger and Dominar found favour among many buyers in the past month. Both these models posted YoY increase in sales to the extent of 20.29 percent and 260.65 percent respectively. Sales of the Avenger stood at 2,377 units last month, up from 1,976 units sold in December 2020. Most demand was seen for the Avenger 200cc with 1,963 units sold last month along with 414 units of the 250cc model. Dominar sales on the other hand increased 260.65 percent to 2,795 units, up from 775 units sold in December 2020.Bajaj Sales Breakup Dec 2021The Chetak e-scooter has seen outstanding demand with a 24166.67 percent YoY increase from just 3 units sold in December 2020 to 728 units in the past month. Bajaj Chetak electric scooter is currently available in two variants – Urbane and Premium. Bajaj Auto is extending the availability of its Chetak electric scooter in the Indian market as the company plans to launch the Chetak in new cities this year.Bajaj Sales Breakup Dec 2021 – Boxer LeadsBajaj Auto Limited has exported a total of 1,80,824 units in December 2021. This was a 9.96 percent YoY de-growth over 2,00,827 units sold in December 2020. In global markets, it was Boxer that was most in demand with 1,17,008 units shipped in the past month, down 10.87 percent over 1,31,283 units exported in December 2020. Out of this, it was the Boxer 110cc model that saw more exports over its 125cc counterpart with 98,328 units and 3,968 units exported respectively.Bajaj Pulsar and CT exports were at 27,754 units and 14,000 units respectively, down 25.04 percent and 5.19 units respectively. CT 125cc commanded higher demand in export markets with 9,504 units shipped followed by the 110cc model of which 3,200 units were exported in the past month both of which related to a YoY de-growth. Conversely, the CT 150cc saw a 350 percent increase in shipments to 1,296 units, up from 288 units sold in December 2020.Bajaj Exports Breakup Dec 2021Bajaj Discover and Platina posted a YoY growth in exports, up 39.42 percent and 30.49 percent respectively to 14,396 units and 4,827 units from 10,326 units and 3,699 units sold in December 2020. Dominar shipments dipped 47.28 percent 47.28 percent YoY to 1,879 units, from 3,564 units shipped in December 2020. Avenger exports increased 485.37 percent YoY to 960 units, up from 164 units shipped in December 2020. Of the Avenger range, it was the 250cc model that saw increased demand of 672 units over its 200cc model of which 288 units were shipped in the past month. More

  • in

    Bajaj Pulsar Sales Breakup Dec 2021 – 125, 150, 160, 180, 200, 250

    Image – Crazy MotorsBajaj Pulsar sales for December 2021 saw a de-growth both in domestic and export markets
    Bajaj Pulsar brand of bikes are offered in multiple options (ranging from 125cc to 250cc) with price starting from Rs 66,586. Speaking about sales performance in Dec 2021, total sales in domestic and export markets stood at 86,979 units, down 18 percent YoY from 1,06,068 units sold in December 2020.
    MoM sales and exports increased marginally by 1.42 percent from 85,763 units sold in November 2021. Every model in the Pulsar range dipped on a YoY basis while Pulsar 160, 180, 200 range saw a 40.78 percent increase in MoM sales to 40,596 units, up from 28,837 units sold in November 2021.
    Bajaj Pulsar Sales Breakup Dec 2021
    Bajaj Pulsar domestic sales stood at 59,225 units last month, down 14.22 percent over 69,044 units sold in December 2020. MoM sales also fell 4.34 percent from 61,913 units sold in November 2021.
    Bajaj Pulsar 125 topped sales charts with 27,900 units sold in December 2021, down 34.64 percent from 42,686 units sold in December 2020. MoM sales also dipped 34.06 percent from 42,311 units sold in November 2021. This also resulted in share percentage falling from 68.34 percent to 47.11 percent MoM.
    Bajaj Pulsar Sales, Exports Breakup Dec 2021 vs Dec 2020 (YoY)
    Pulsar 150 (150 Neon, 150, and 150 Twin-disc) saw a 36.13 percent YoY growth to 27,169 units, up from 19,169 units sold in December 2020. MoM sales noted an even higher growth rate at 107.65 percent from 13,084 units sold in November 2021.
    Sales of Bajaj Pulsar 250 dipped 41.73 percent YoY to 2,621 units from 4,498 units sold in December 2020 while MoM sales increased 306.99 percent from 644 units sold in November 2021. On the other hand sales of Pulsar 160, 180 and 200 dipped 19.30 percent YoY to 1,535 units from 1,902 units sold in December 2020 and down 73.87 percent MoM over 5,874 units sold in November 2021.
    Bajaj Pulsar Exports Breakup Dec 2021
    Bajaj also registered a Year-on-Year decline in terms of Pulsar exports in December 2021. Total exports in the past month stood at 27,754 units, down 25.04 percent over 37,024 units shipped in December 2020. MoM performance was better with a 16.37 percent increase over 23,850 units shipped in November 2021.
    Bajaj Pulsar Sales, Exports Breakup Dec 2021 vs Nov 2021 (MoM)
    The 160, 180, 200 Pulsar range was in demand in global markets with 13,427 units shipped in December 2021 down 14.77 percent over 15,753 units shipped in December 2020. MoM shipments saw some improvement over 9,410 units sold in November 2021.
    Pulsar 150cc range saw a 54.20 percent YoY de-growth in shipments last month to 6,432 units, down from 14,043 units shipped in December 2020 while MoM exports also dipped 39.50 percent from 10,632 units in November 2021.
    Bajaj Pulsar Total (Sales + Exports) – Dec 2021
    Exports of Pulsar 220F / 250 increased last month by 49.35 percent to 3,992 units while MoM exports surged by 159.90 percent from 1,536 units shipped in November 2021. Pulsar 125 saw 3,903 units exported last month, down 14.31 percent YoY from 4,555 units shipped in December 2020 while MoM saw a 71.79 percent growth from 2,272 units shipped in November 2021. More

  • in

    Bajaj Twinner Trademark Filed – New Pulsar 500cc Twin Cylinder ?

    Render image for reference.Bajaj Auto is developing multiple new products in the premium segment of two-wheelers with KTM and Triumph
    Bajaj Auto has been looking to foray into the premium segment of mid-displacement motorcycles for many years and hence has stitched many partnerships with international brands like KTM and Triumph. The Chakan-based automaker has filed a new trademark named ‘Twinner’ which could be used for an upcoming twin-cylinder motorcycle.
    As per the trademark certificate, the name has been proposed for motorcycles and scooters among others, however, there hasn’t been any confirmation on the same by Bajaj yet. Bajaj has joined hands with the iconic British manufacturer Triumph to develop affordable mid-capacity motorcycles specifically for the Indian market.
    Parallel-twin motors developed by Bajaj-KTM
    It should be noted that Bajaj is already developing a new 490cc parallel-twin engine in association with KTM which will be utilised in multiple upcoming models under the Austrian brand such as 490 Adventure, 490 Duke, RC490, and 490 Supermoto/Enduro.
    This 490cc parallel-twin motor could also power upcoming Bajaj models as well. Whether this engine will be the source of power for the Twinner is yet to be seen. It is possible that Bajaj could launch these motorcycles under the Pulsar brand – Bajaj Pulsar 500cc Twinner or the likes.
    Bajaj Twinner Trademark Filed
    Registrations of trademarks in the auto industry don’t guarantee a market launch. Bajaj has filed multiple trademarks in recent times including ‘Fluor’, ‘Fluir’, and ‘Neuron’. Most of them are likely to be utilised by the brand’s upcoming electric two-wheelers. That said, the Twinner trademark application doesn’t mention the use of electric vehicles.
    Bajaj-Triumph joint venture
    This motorcycle will cater to the 200cc-700cc engine capacity and it is squarely aimed at a segment dominated by Royal Enfield for the past many decades. As per earlier reports, the first product from the Bajaj and Triumph joint venture was expected to make its global debut this year. However, due to unavoidable delays, the market launch of the upcoming bike got pushed to 2023.
    The first of the upcoming motorcycles is expected to be globally unveiled towards the end of this year. These bikes are expected to flaunt a neo-retro design similar to the Bonneville range of motorcycles from Triumph. Retro-styled bikes are currently the blue-eyed boys in the motorcycling community all over the world. However, other than the trademark filed, there isn’t any significant detail revealed.
    Bajaj New EV Plant
    This is interesting since Bajaj recently laid the foundation stone for its new EV manufacturing plant in Akurdi near Pune in Maharashtra. Bajaj has announced an investment of Rs 300 crore for this new facility which on completion will have an annual production capacity of 50,000 EVs. The first vehicle from this plant is expected to roll out by June this year. More

  • in

    TVS iQube Beats Bajaj Chetak – 2021 Electric Scooter Sales

    TVS iQube Wins 2021 Battle; Beats Bajaj Chetak By 905 Units. Image – Wheel Wheel WkAt 1,212 units, TVS iQube has registered its highest monthly sales in CY 2021
    Ever since their launch, there’s been a close fight between Bajaj Chetak and TVS iQube. These are currently the only electric scooters produced by mainstream manufacturers. This scenario is expected to change this year, as companies like Hero MotoCorp, Honda and Suzuki have planned to launch their first-ever electric products in Indian market.
    Chetak vs. iQube – December 2021 sales
    In comparison to iQube’s haul of 1,212 units, Chetak sales were at 728 units in December 2021. YoY growth is 1990% for iQube, as compared to 58 units sold in the corresponding period last year. Chetak YoY growth is even higher in percentage terms. That’s because only 3 units were sold in December last year.
    In terms of MoM growth, iQube has registered gains of 73.39% in comparison to 42.47% of Chetak. Respective sales in November 2021 were at 699 units and 511 units.
    While iQube monthly sales were highest in December for CY2021, it’s third-best performance for Chetak. Second-best month for Chetak was in July when sales were at 730 units. Chetak’s highest sales were at 835 units in October last year. iQube’s second-best performance was in September 2021 when it had registered sales of 766 units.
    TVS iQube vs Bajaj Chetak Dec 2021 Electric Scooter Sales
    When compared on a month-to-month basis, it is evident that iQube was ahead of Chetak in eight months in 2021. Vice-versa, Chetak was ahead of iQube in the months of April, May, July and October. Monthly average sales works out at 423 for Chetak and 498 for iQube. Lowest point for iQube was in May, when zero sales were reported. In case of Chetak, its worst performance was in January last year at 30 units.
    TVS iQube vs Bajaj Chetak 2021 Electric Scooter Sales
    Although iQube has raced ahead of Chetak in 2021, it cannot be used to arrive at any conclusion. It is widely known that the auto sector continues to face challenges due to shortage of components such as semiconductor chips. There are multiple companies that have registered strong bookings, but are unable to deliver due to shortage of components.
    Chetak vs. iQube specs and pricing
    Bajaj Chetak is offered in two variants, Premium and Urbane. It has range of 90 km, when Eco mode is engaged. Top speed is around 80 kmph. The scooter can load up to 25% charge in one hour. Some of the key USPs of Chetak is its steel body and IP67 rated water protection. The company is currently offering battery warranty of 3 years or 50,000 km, whichever is earlier.
    [embedded content]
    In comparison, TVS iQube has range of 75 km on a full charge. Top speed is 78 km and 0-40 kmph is achieved in 4.2 seconds. It utilizes a hub-mounted motor that generates peak output of 4.4 kW. iQube’s batteries are packed inside high strength aluminium extrusion casing, which makes them water and dust resistant. Battery warranty is the same as that of Chetak.
    One significant advantage for iQube is that it is much cheaper than Chetak. In Delhi, iQube is available at Rs 1.01 lakh. In comparison, Chetak costs around Rs 1.48 lakh. More