More stories

  • in

    Royal Enfield Constellation Name Trademarked – New 650cc Motorcycle?

    Modified RE 650 image for reference. Credit – Neev MotorcyclesRoyal Enfield is presently developing at least three new 650cc models, one of them could probably wear the ‘Constellation’ monikerRoyal Enfield has plenty of exciting new models slated to come out in the next few months. The company is currently on the verge of launching Scram 411 which is essentially a road-biased version of Himalayan in the next few days.Apart from this, the Chennai-based bike manufacturer is also developing multiple models based on the 650cc platform. At least three iterations of the upcoming 650cc motorcycle have been spied in recent times. Other than this, there is also a 350cc roadster on the anvil which is expected to be named Hunter 350.Royal Enfield Constellation Trademark FiledIn a recent development, Royal Enfield has filed a new trademark for the name ‘Constellation’ which could be utilised in one of the upcoming new motorcycles. Going by the history behind the moniker, we believe it could be used in one of the 650cc models. For reference, Constellation 700 was a motorcycle sold by Royal Enfield in North America between 1958 and 1963.It was a predecessor to the erstwhile Interceptor 700 and was equipped with a 692cc parallel-twin motor which churned out 36 horses. It was essentially two engines of Bullet 350 combined into a single unit with 2 cast-iron barrels and twin alloy heads. Later, displacement for this motor was increased to 736cc since the earlier motor was a bit too small for the likings of Americans.Royal Enfield Constellation Name Trademark FiledPossible UsageAs mentioned earlier, there are possibly three versions of the 650cc motorcycle- a cruiser which is expected to be called Super Meteor 650, a single-seater bobber named SG650 or Shotgun 650 and a roadster. The last option is likely to be a 650cc equivalent of Classic 350 and could probably wear the nametag of Constellation 650.However, it is still a speculation as there has been no official confirmation regarding any of this. Constellation 650 could be the sportiest of all 650cc motorcycles since back in the day, the original Constellation was considered a ‘sporty’ motorcycle for that era as it could clock a top speed of 177 kmph.Royal Enfield Constellation Expected SpecsThe upcoming 650cc roadster will share the same platform and engine as features in the current 650 Twins- Interceptor and Continental GT. Speaking of engine, it will be powered by a 648cc parallel-twin engine that currently churns out 47 bhp and 52 Nm of peak torque. This unit is paired with a 6-speed gearbox via a slipper and assist clutch.Original Royal Enfield Constellation 700 From The 1960s. Image from RE Constellation Service Manual. Credit – Hari Shreyas.It will also probably be the last of the three upcoming 650cc bikes to be launched by Royal Enfield. This motorcycle is expected to make its debut by the end of 2023 or early 2024 by the time both Super Meteor and Shotgun would have launched in the market. When launched, it could be positioned between Shotgun 650 and Super Meteor 650. More

  • in

    Suzuki Sales Feb 2022 – Burgman, Gixxer, Avenis, Access

    Image – Drive CraftTwo wheeler sales in February 2022 have been lackluster – hit by rising fuel prices and new electric scootersTwo wheeler sales in India in the past month have seen a decline. Royal Enfield sales declined 20 percent in domestic markets but saw a 55 percent growth in exports. Bajaj Auto posted a 16 percent dip in its two wheeler sales while TVS Motor domestic 2W sales fall 11 percent to 174,140 units in February 2022.Suzuki Sales Feb 2022Suzuki Motorcycle India has however, reported a marginal increase in YoY sales to 72,200 units in February 2022. Sales increased 0.75 percent over 71,662 units sold in February 2021.The company saw its domestic sales dip marginally by 1.56 percent to 58,603 units in the past month, over 59,530 units sold in February 2021 with a share of 81.17 percent. Exports on the other hand grew 12.08 percent to 13,597 units in February 2022, up from 12,132 units shipped in February 2021, holding onto a share of 18.83 percent.The company has held steady in the face of a continual chips shortage. While the world awaits the supply shortage to ease, manufacturers are optimising processes to reduce the ever-growing gap between placing an order and awaiting delivery.Suzuki 2W Sales Feb 2022Suzuki Feb 2022 Sales and Exports MoMIt was also on a MoM basis that Suzuki suffered de-growth in domestic sales. Sales dipped 3.33 percent over 60,623 units sold in January 2022 while exports increased 43.59 percent from 9,469 units shipped in January 2021. This took total sales up 3.01 percent to 72,200 units in February 2022 from 70,092 units sold in January 2022.The Suzuki Access scooter is one of the most popular models in the company lineup. Other products on offer include Gixxer range of motorcycles, newly launched Avenis scooter, Burgman Street, etc.Satoshi Uchida, Managing Director, Suzuki Motorcycle India Pvt Ltd. said, “Despite the ongoing Semi-Conductor availability constraints, we continue to keep our growth momentum in the month of February, 2022. We are experiencing a strong demand both from the domestic and the export market. Hence, we are cautiously optimistic that as we enter into the new Financial Year, the semiconductor availability will improve and we shall be able to cater to the customer demand in full measure.”Suzuki Avenis ScooterIt was in January 2022 that Suzuki added a new sporty scooter to its current lineup. The Avenis competes with Grazia 125 and new Aprilia SR 125 125cc scooters in a similar segment and is positioned below the Burgman Street in the company portfolio. This premium scooter is priced at Rs 86,700 while its Metallic Triton Blue (Race Edition) carries a higher price tag of Rs 87,000.Suzuki Avenis gets its power via a 124cc, single cylinder engine that also powers the Access and Burgman Street. The engine makes 8.5 hp power at 6,750 rpm and 10 Nm torque at 5,500 rpm and power is sent via Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT). Suzuki Avenis competes with the TVS NTorq 125, Honda Grazia 125 and new Aprilia SR 125. More

  • in

    Honda Motorcycle, Scooter Sales Feb 2022 – Activa, Dio, Shine, Grazia, CB350

    Honda DioHonda has reported a de-growth both in terms of domestic sales and exports and on a YoY and MoM basisHonda Motorcycle and Scooter India (HMSI) has not begun the New Year on a very optimistic note. Its sales figures have been steadily falling not only in domestic markets but also in terms of exports. The company’s best sellers continue to include Activa, CB Shine, Dio and Grazia while the CB350 continues to deliver about 3k units a month.Honda Motorcycle, Scooter Sales Feb 2022Total sales (domestic and exports) in February 2022 stood at 3,12,621 units, down 29.38 percent over 4,42,696 units sold in February 2021. Domestic sales dipped 30.59 percent to 2,85,677 units in February 2022 from 4,11,578 units sold in February 2021 with a share percentage of 91.38.Exports on the other hand dipped 13.41 percent to 26,944 units in the past month from 31,118 units shipped in February 2021. Exports commanded an 8.62 percent share.Comparing Honda’s two wheeler sales and exports on a MoM basis has also seen de-growth. Total sales (domestic and exports) dipped 11.74 percent to 3,12,621 units, down from 3,54,209 units sold in February 2021. Domestic sales dipped 9.37 percent from 3,15,196 units sold in January 2021 while exports fell 30.94 percent over 39,013 units shipped in February 2021.Honda Two Wheeler Sales Feb 2022Honda 2 Wheelers – Highlights through February 2022Honda Electric scooter is in the making with launch date set for 2023. This will be the company’s first electric two wheeler in India and is set to rival the likes of Ola S1, Bajaj Chetak, TVS iQube and upcoming Suzuki Burgman Electric. It will be offered with swappable batteries and will likely come in with standard ownership and subscription based plans.Honda has also filed a patent for NT1100, its flagship touring motorcycle which if launched in India will be sold via the company’s BigWing dealerships. It will be available in two variants of NT1100A and NT1100D and will sport distinctive adventure styling. Both variants get their power via a 1,084cc engine that also powers the CRF1100L. The engine offers 101 hp power at 7,250 rpm and 104 Nm torque at 6,250 rpm mated to 6 speed manual and 6 speed DCT automatic gearbox respectively.In January 2022, HMSI also introduced the CBR650R at Rs 9.35 lakhs. It is opened for bookings at all company’s premium BigWing Topline showrooms and will be brought into the country via the Completely Knocked Down (CKD) route. In its segment, it will rival the Kawasaki Ninja 650 that is priced at Rs 6.68 lakh.Honda is also keen to expand its BigWing dealership base. Following its new dealership in Mumbai, the company now has a new showroom of the BigWing in Pimpri, Pune. The company has also opened its BigWing outlets in Hoshiarpur (Punjab), Rajahmundry (Andhra Pradesh)and Belagavi (Karnataka). More

  • in

    Bajaj Auto Sales Feb 2022 – Pulsar, Dominar, Platina, Chetak, CT100

    Bajaj Pulsar 250 F Blue ColourBajaj Auto posted a 16 percent decline in two wheeler sales in February 2022 to 2,79,337 unitsBajaj Auto Limited saw its sales and exports on a decline in the past month. Total sales in February 2022 stood at 3,16,020 units, down 16 percent over 3,75,017 units sold in February 2021.On the other hand, its year to date sales ended on a more positive note, up 11 percent to 40,11,245 units from 36,03,466 units sold in the April to February 2021 period. Sales continued to be commanded by the Pulsar, Platina, CT, Dominar and Avenger in the company’s two wheeler lineup. Chetak electric scooter sales have also increased.Bajaj Auto Sales February 2022Two wheeler sales saw a 16 percent YoY de-growth in February 2022. Sales which had stood at 3,32,563 units in February 2021 dipped to 2,79,337 units in the past month. De-growth was more pronounced in domestic markets with a 35 percent dip to 96,523 units, down from 1,48,934 units sold in February 2021.Exports, on the other hand, remained flat at 1,82,814 units in the past month, from 1,83,563 units shipped in February 2021. In the past month, Bajaj Auto added new colours to Bajaj Pulsar F250, N250 priced at Rs 1.38 lakh and Rs 1.40 lakh respectively.Bajaj Auto Sales Feb 2022Commercial vehicle sales on the other hand fell 14 percent YoY to 36,683 units in February 2022 from 42,454 units sold in February 2021. Domestic sales increased marginally by 2 percent to 16,224 units while exports suffered a decline of 23 percent to 20,459 units in the past month from 26,577 units shipped in February 2021.Total domestic sales (two wheeler and CV) dipped 32 percent to 1,12,747 units from 1,64,811 units YoY while total exports fell 3 percent YoY to 2,03,273 units from 2,10,206 units sold in February 2021. Bajaj Auto had announced a price hike across its two wheeler segment in February 2022.Bajaj Auto YTD Sales and ExportsBajaj Auto Limited saw its year to date (April 2021 to February 2022) sales end on a positive note with commercial vehicle sales being a major contributor. Total sales (2 wheeler and exports) increased 11 percent to 40,11,245 units in the 2022 period from 36,03,466 units sold in the same 11 month period of 2021.Bajaj Auto Sales Feb 2022 – TYDSales of two wheelers in domestic markets suffered a YTD de-growth of 6 percent to 15,34,003 units from 16,27,982 units sold in the 2021. Exports on the other hand, increased 24 percent to 20,46,529 units in the April to February 2022 period over 16,47,778 units sold in the same period of 2021. Total two wheeler sales thus increased 9 percent to 35,80,532 units YTD.Commercial vehicle YTD sales increased 31 percent to 4,30,713 units from 3,27,706 units with both domestic sales (1,41,052 units) and exports (2,89,661 units) reporting YTD growth of 53 percent and 23 percent respectively. Total two wheeler and CV domestic sales dipped 3 percent YTD to 16,75,055 units while exports increased 24 percent to 23,36,190 units. More

  • in

    Hero MotoCorp Sales Feb 2022 – Splendor, Glamour, HF Deluxe, Destini

    Image – Unseen AutoWith easing of Covid restrictions and favourable announcements made in FY23 Union Budget, Hero MotoCorp expects sales to improve in coming monthsWorld’s largest two-wheeler manufacturer, Hero MotoCorp has reported sales of 3,58,254 units in February 2022. This is negative YoY growth, as compared to 5,05,467 units in the corresponding period last year. YTD FY22 numbers are at 44,93,996 units. It is negative growth, as compared to 52,14,581 units in YTD FY21.Hero MotoCorp Sales Feb 2022In February 2022, Hero MotoCorp sold a total of 3,38,454 motorcycles. YoY growth is negative, as compared to 4,63,723 motorcycles sold in February last year. YTD numbers are 42,02,044 units for FY22 and 48,08,849 units for FY21. Motorcycles on sale from Hero include the likes of Glamour, Splendor, Passion, HF Deluxe, Xpulse, Xtreme, etcScooter sales are also negative in February 2022. As compared to 41,744 scooters in February last year, sales were at 19,800 units in February 2022. YTD numbers are 2,91,952 units for FY22 and 4,05,732 units for FY21. Scooters on offer from Hero are Pleasure, Maestro, Destini, etc.In overall volumes, share of domestic sales was 3,31,462 units in February 2022. YoY growth is negative, as compared to 4,84,433 units sold in the corresponding period last year. YTD numbers are 42,27,762 units in February 2022, as compared to 50,55,590 units in FY21.Hero MotoCorp Sales Feb 2022Hero MotoCorp exports in February have registered positive YoY growth. A total of 26,792 units were exported in February 2022, as compared to 21,034 units in February last year. YTD numbers are 2,66,234 units in FY22, as compared to 1,58,991 units in FY21.Hero MotoCorp ongoing initiativesWhile it continues to dominate petrol-powered two-wheeler segment, Hero MotoCorp has started working proactively in EV space as well. It is apparent that the company wants to achieve a leading position in EV space as well. Hero MotoCorp has yet to launch its first EV, but that could change soon.The company is currently focusing on developing two-wheeler charging infrastructure across the country. It has tied up with Bharat Petroleum Corporation Limited (BPCL) to set up charging stations for two-wheelers. These will cater to all EV brands and will not be limited to upcoming Hero MotoCorp EVs. The company believes that such infrastructure is urgently needed to achieve the shift to an all-electric ecosystem.Plan is to setup an extensive network of charging stations totalling around 7,000. BPCL is in the process of upgrading its existing retail outlets to support both EV charging as well as petrol/diesel refuelling. Such a vast network will be crucial, considering that the majority of the population relies on two-wheelers.With an eye on emerging opportunities, Hero MotoCorp has introduced changes to its organizational structure. Functions like marketing, sales, after-sales and parts business have been integrated into a single unit. Ranjivjit Singh will be heading this new unit in the position of Chief Growth Officer. He was earlier in charge of marketing at Hero MotoCorp.In other updates, Hero MotoCorp has been lending a helping hand to those impacted by Covid-19. The company has come out in support of orphaned children and women who have lost their spouses to Covid-19. Hero MotoCorp is currently supporting around 500 families that have been impacted by Covid. More

  • in

    Royal Enfield Sales Feb 2022 – Classic, Meteor, Himalayan, 650 Twins

    Image – Auto Moto ShowRoyal Enfield’s 350cc motorcycles continue to be primary volume generators in domestic marketA total of 52,135 units were sold in domestic market in February 2022. YoY growth is down by -19.93%, as compared to 65,114 units sold in the corresponding period last year. In exports, a total of 7,025 units were sent overseas. This is more than fifty percent growth in YoY terms. Ratio of domestic sales to exports in February was close to 88% – 12%. Taken together (domestic + exports), overall growth is negative at -15.07%.Royal Enfield Sales Feb 2022 – 350cc MotorcyclesRoyal Enfield 350cc portfolio currently has popular bikes like Classic, Meteor, Electra and Bullet. Total sales + exports were at 49,484 units in February. This is a decline of -23.12% YoY, as compared to 64,362 units in February last year.Above 350cc bikes that include Himalayan and 650 Twins contributed 9,676 units in February. This is impressive YoY growth of 82.67%, as compared to 5,297 units in February last year. Percentage contribution is 83.64% for 350cc motorcycles and 16.36% for above 350cc bikes in February.In terms of MoM growth, domestic sales have improved by 4.84%. A total of 49,726 units were sold in January this year. MoM exports are down by -22.90%, as compared to 9,112 units exported in January. Overall MoM growth (domestic + exports) is largely flat at 0.55%.Royal Enfield Sales Feb 2022Share of Royal Enfield 350cc bikes declined -0.21% MoM, as compared to 49,586 units in January 2022. 350cc+ bikes registered MoM growth of 4.58%, as compared to 9,252 units in January 2022.Year to Date (YTD) sales FY22During the period from April-2021 to February-2022, Royal Enfield 350cc motorcycles total volumes (sales + exports) were at 4,50,569 units. This is de-growth of -10%, as compared to 4,99,683 units in the corresponding period in FY21. Average monthly sales work out at approximately 40,960 units per month.In above 350cc category, YTD numbers are at 84,022 units. This is significant growth of 80%, as compared to 46,609 units in the corresponding period in FY21. Average works out at around 7,638 units per month.Royal Enfield Sales Feb 2022Upcoming Royal Enfield bikesRoyal Enfield currently dominates the middleweight segment with market share of more than 75%. To ensure it remains that way, the company has planned several new products this year and beyond. These new bikes will also help tackle competition from the likes of Jawa, Yezdi and Honda. Royal Enfield may also have to face competition from new bikes spawning from the partnership between Bajaj and Triumph.Royal Enfield’s next launch is new Scram 411 motorcycle that is scheduled to debut next week. It is primarily a road-biased derivative of Royal Enfield Himalayan ADV. The bike has been designed for highway cruising and can also take on some mild off-roading. It gets a smaller 19-inch front wheel, as compared to 21-inch unit used with Himalayan. Most of the key hardware including engine will be same as Himalayan.In 350cc segment, Royal Enfield is working on a scrambler bike, likely to be called Hunter 350. In 650cc segment, upcoming Royal Enfield bikes include Classic 650, a cruiser and a 650cc bobber. More

  • in

    TVS Sales Feb 2022 Decline – Apache, Jupiter, Raider, Ntorq, XL100

    Image – Auto EraTVS reports decline in domestic 2W sales and growth in 2W exports for February 2022TVS Motor total two-wheeler sales is reported at 2,67,625 units in February 2022, down from 2,84,581 units in February 2021. Volume loss stood at 17k units at about 6 percent decline. Mom sales growth is reported at 5.31 percent, up from 2,54,139 units at volume gain of 13,486 units.Of this, domestic two-wheeler sales is down at 1,73,198 units, down from 1,95,145 units in February 2021. Volume loss is pegged at just below 22k units at 11.25 percent decline. MoM growth stands at 3.22 percent, up from 1,67,795 units.TVS Sales Feb 2022 DeclineMotorcycle sales growth is reported at 4.56 percent, up at 1,43,523 units from 1,37,259 units a year earlier. Volume gain stood at 6,264 units. While motorcycle sales improved, it wasn’t enough to negate total 2W sales decline on account of a sharp fall in moped sales, and moderate decline in scooter sales. MoM growth is pegged at 4.49 percent, up from 1,37,360 units. Motorcycles on offer from TVS include the Apache range, Raider 125cc, Sport, Radeon, Star City.Semiconductors supply shortage has had an impact on production, and thereby sales. TVS is cautiously optimistic that semiconductors supply will improve in the coming months. The situation is one that manufacturers are navigating continually in order to keep delivery times in check.TVS Motor Sales Feb 2022 vs Feb 2021 (YoY)While motorcycle sales continue to lead the sales chart for TVS, moped sales have taken a beating in recent times. TVS XL100 Moped sales fell to 37,486 units, down from 51,797 units. Volume loss surpassed the 14k units mark at decline of over a quarter. MoM moped sales growth is reported at 3.56 percent, up from 36,199 units.TVS scooter sales fell to 86,616 units, down from 95,525 units in February 2021. Volume loss stood at 8,909 units at a 9.33 percent decline. MoM scooter sales growth stood at 7.49 percent, up from 80,580 units. Scooters on offer from TVS include Jupiter, Ntorq, Pep+, Zest and iQube electric. Total 2W domestic sales is reported at 1,73,198 units, down from 1,95,145 units. Volume loss stood at 21,947 units at 11.25 percent decline.TVS Exports, 3 Wheelers Feb 2022Total exports are up at 1,07,574 units from 1,01,789 units at 6 percent growth. Two-wheeler exports are up at 94,427 units, up from 89,436 units at 5.58 percent growth. Three-Wheeler sales were up at 14,089 units, up from 13,166 units at 7 percent growth. 3W domestic sales are reported at 942 units, up from 813 units at 15.87 percent growth. 3W exports are up at 13,147 units, up from 12,353 units at volume gain of 794 units. Growth is reported at 6.43 percent.TVS Motor Sales Feb 2022 vs Jan 2022 (MoM)TVS Motor Company reports total sales of 2,81,714 units in February 2022. YoY sales fell from 2,97,747 units. Volume loss stood at 16k units at 5.38 percent decline. MoM total growth stood at 5.59 percent, up from 2,66,788 units. Total domestic sales decline is reported at 11.13 percent, down from 1,95,858 units at 1,74,140 units. Volume loss stood at 21,818 units. More

  • in

    New Hero Electric Scooter Eddy Launch Price Rs 72k

    Hero Electric Scooter EddyHero Eddy e-scooter is ideally suited for short distance commutes to coffee shops, gymnasiums and across golf coursesHero Electric, a leading electric two wheeler maker in India, followed by Okinawa Autotech, Ather Energy, Ampere Vehicles, and Pure EV is aware of the shift in customer’s preferences toward electric two wheelers. The continuous rise in fuel prices has added further momentum to this segment and sales charts each month show off the increased demand for electric two wheelers while petrol powered bikes continue to face lower sales.In view of this increased demand, Hero Electric has introduced the new electric scooter called EDDY. It is presented in two colours of Yellow and Light Blue and is a stylish two wheeler best suited for short distance commutes. It comes in with an array of features, technology and conveniences and does not need any license of registration.New Hero Electric Scooter EddyThe new Hero Electric Eddy e-scooter comes in with a host of features. These include Find-my-Bike, e-lock and reverse mode along with follow me headlamps, reverse mode and a larger boot. Hero Eddy offers a pollution free ride. It comes at a time when the general public are showing more impetus to conserving energy and preserving the environment especially where commuting over shorter distances is concerned.Eddy e-scooter is best suited for such commutes to coffee shops, gymnasiums and across golf courses. It offers a hassle free riding experience while it also ensures rider’s comfort and safety. Price starts from Rs 72,000, ex-sh.Hero Electric Scooter EddyMr. Naveen Munjal, MD, Hero Electric, said, “We at Hero are thrilled to announce our upcoming product Hero Eddy that will have an overwhelming on-road presence combining smart features and stylish looks. The scooter is designed keeping in mind an individual’s conscious efforts to contribute towards a carbon-free future combined with a hassle-free ride experience. We are confident that Hero Eddy will make for a perfect alternate mobility choice offering comfort and necessity.”Hero Electric Partners with Mahindra GroupHero Electric recently ramped up its production facilities in Ludhiana to meet increased demand. The company commands a 35 percent market share and presently has a 600+ dealership network across 325 cities.Sales through 2021 stood at 46,260 units while the company has entered into an alliance with BattWheelz Mobility, a Gurugram-based start-up with plans to deliver 4,000 electric two-wheelers by FY 2022-23. Hero Electric also recently joined hands with ReadyAssist to train and skill 20,000 mechanics to service and repair electric vehicles in the country.Hero Electric Scooter EddyHero Electric also entered into an association with State Bank of India to offer instalment facilities to its buyers of electric scooters. The EMI options start off from Rs 251 per Rs 10,000 for 4 years and are offered under SBI Easy Ride Loan. A joint partnership with Mahindra Group and their first joint electric two wheeler was the Optima scooter. The 5 year partnership worth around Rs 150 crores aims to produce 1 million electric vehicles per annum by the end of this year.The two companies will also jointly develop the supply chain and shared platform and Mahindra Group will manufacture the Optima and NYX e-scooters at its Pithampura plant. Both companies will also work towards electrification of Mahindra’s Peugeot Motorcycle Portfolio. More