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      Bajaj Trademarks Fluir, Fluor Names – For Future Electric Motorcycle?

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      Image of Zero Motorcycle for reference
      The upcoming Bajaj electric motorcycle will rival the likes of other electric motorcycles such as Revolt RV400 and Okinawa Cruiser among others
      Bajaj Auto, like every other OEM in India, is looking to broaden its product portfolio. It has come to light that the Pune based two-wheeler manufacturer has filed new trademarks for Fluir and Fluor monikers in the country. Speculations indicate that these names would be used for the brand’s upcoming range of electric products.
      Fluir is a Spanish word that stands for flow (of steam or fluids). Since both the names sound similar, it might be the case where only one brand name gets utilised. Bajaj already retails an electric two-wheeler in the form of Chetak electric scooter. It is possible that at least one of these two trademarks could be used for an electric motorcycle.
      Bajaj FLUIR
      Upcoming Electric Two-wheelers
      While trademark applications don’t say that they can only be used for a battery-powered vehicle. However, adding more sub-brands for conventional IC engine-powered vehicles does not make much sense since Bajaj already has at least five of them in its current lineup.
      If Bajaj uses these monikers for conventionally powered two-wheelers, the company will most probably have to delete some models from its portfolio which is not likely to happen in the near future.
      Bajaj FLUOR
      An electric motorcycle seems the best bet since the trio alliance of Bajaj, KTM and Husqvarna are planning to amplify their electric lineup of models. While the Austrian and Swedish bikemakers will be utilising the platform of Chetak Electric to build their own respective e-scooters, Bajaj might very well do the same with its own version of a rebadged Husqvarna E-Pilen which was recently revealed to the world.
      If it turns out the way we speculate, the new electric bike from the Indian automaker is expected to be powered by a 8kW electric motor. While other specifications are yet to be revealed, the bike in all probability will feature a battery swapping technology to address range anxiety issues. A similarly specced bike is also expected to don the orange of KTM at some stage.
      Chetak Electric
      On the other hand, Chetak Electric is powered by a 3kWh battery pack paired with a 4kW electric motor which returns a peak output of 16 Nm torque. It is offered with two drive modes- Eco and Sport.
      The e-scooter offers a maximum range of 95km in Eco mode while in Sport mode it offers a range of 85km on a single charge. Bajaj retails Chetak in two trims namely Urbane and Premium at a starting price of Rs 1.42 lakh (ex-showroom). More

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      Two Wheeler Sales April 2021 – Hero, Bajaj, Honda, TVS, Suzuki, Royal Enfield

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      Image – MRD VlogsWhile Hero leads in domestic sales, Bajaj tops export markets in April
      Adverse impact of Covid second wave is clearly evident on two wheeler domestic sales in April, which are down by -33.95% (MoM). A total of 9,53,338 units were sold in April 2021, as compared to 14,43,320 units in March 2021. All two wheeler manufacturers except Suzuki have negative MoM growth in April. The adverse situation could continue in the coming months since there’s a lot of uncertainly from rising Covid cases and lockdowns.
      Two wheeler domestic sales April 2021
      Even though its MoM sales are down by -37.06%, Hero continues to be the top selling brand. The company sold a total of 3,42,614 units in April, as compared to 5,44,340 units in March. Market share is at 23.74% in April.
      Honda is next with sales of 2,40,100 units in April. MoM growth is down by -39.22%, as compared to 3,95,037 units sold in March. Honda commanded a market share of 16.64% in April. At number three is TVS with sales of 1,31,386 units in April. MoM de-growth is at -35.01%, as compared to 2,02,155 units sold in March. TVS market share is at 9.10% in April.
      At number four is Bajaj with sales of 1,26,570 units in April. MoM growth has come down by -30.22%, as compared to 1,81,393 units sold in March. Market share is at 8.77%. Suzuki is placed at fifth place with sales of 63,879 units in April. MoM sales are positive at 6.07%, as compared to 60,222 units sold in March. Suzuki market share is at 4.43% in April.
      Two Wheeler Sales and Exports – April 2021
      Royal Enfield is next with sales of 48,789 units in April. MoM sales are down by -18.92%, as compared to 60,173 units sold in March. Royal Enfield market share in April is at 3.38%.
      Two wheeler exports April 2021
      Bajaj’s strategy to focus aggressively on both domestic and international markets appears to be paying rich dividends in these challenging times. While the company’s domestic sales are down, it is utilizing opportunities available in international markets. As a result, Bajaj exports have zoomed close to 50% in April. A total of 2,21,603 units were exported in April, as compared to 1,48,740 units in March. Percentage share in exports is a whopping 69.63%.
      TVS is another home-bred two wheeler manufacturer that has strong focus on exports. However, export growth in April is negative at -9.95%. A total of 94,807 units were exported in April, as compared to 1,05,282 units in March. Percentage share in exports is 29.79%.
      At number three is Honda, with a staggering 168.41% rise in MoM export growth. A total of 42,945 units were exported in April, as compared to 16,000 units in March. Share in exports is at 13.49%. Other two wheeler brands in the list include Hero (29,671 units), Suzuki (13,970), and Royal Enfield (4,509). Of these, only Suzuki has positive MoM growth. More

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      Honda Scooter, Motorcycle Sales April 2021 – Activa, Dio, Shine, Hornet, CB350

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      Honda ActivaHonda 2Wheelers reports total (domestic wholesales and exports) sales in April 2021 at 2,83,045 units
      The market is a strange place now. In a most astounding fashion, Bajaj has surpassed Honda Two Wheelers total sales in April 2021. This is on account of notable growth in exports for Bajaj.
      Total sales stood at just below 3.5 lakh units. Honda Two Wheelers sold a total of 2,83,045 units. MoM decline stood at 31.14 percent, down from 4,11,037 units. Volume decline stood at 1,27,992 units. Best sellers include Activa, CB Shine, Dio, Grazia, Unicorn, Dream, Hornet, etc. CB350 too recorded decent sales.
      Honda Sales April 2021
      Of this, domestic sales stood at 2,40,100 units. MoM decline stood at 39.22 percent, down from 3,95,037 units. Volume decline stood at 1,54,937 units. Exports for the month are reported at 42,945 units. MoM growth was reported at 3 figures, up from 16k units. Volume gain stood at 26,945 units.
      Temp production halt
      Disruption in production, processes, supply chain, and distribution networks is a matter that manufacturers are having to deal with on a daily basis. Through April 2021, Covid-19 infection numbers being reported have continued to touch new highs.
      This in turn has prompted states to announce curated lockdowns yet again. This is not too different from what auto manufacturers experienced in April 2021 when manufacturing and sales had come to an absolute halt.
      And given the current need to proritise on safety, and save lives, a number of manufacturers have announced a production halt for a varying number of days. Starting on Labour Day, Honda Two-Wheelers has temporarily halted production until May 15, 2021. The shutdown will be used effectively to advance annual maintenance schedules.
      Decisions in regard to resuming production will be made in accordance with the what the Covid-19 situation looks like in a fortnight. For now, those who can work from home are doing so, and only essential staff is being called in to work at the company’s plants, and offices.
      HMSI scope
      On the global front, Honda is working on electric motorcycles and scooters. Given the potential India supposedly has, one could expect a Honda electric scooter to be a first product from the brand here.
      Honda Two Wheelers India plays an important part in Honda’s global strategy. For one, Honda has a large marketshare in India. And in the last two decades, it has expanded its global footprint from here through exports. Last year with the introduction of CB350, HMSI has chalked out a new path to make inroads.
      For one, this is a sizeable segment in India with rather few competitors where brands are concerned. It’s more like Royal Enfield pitting its bikes against each other. And Honda has finally put it’s foot through the door. It’s 350cc range isn’t just being sold here, but is also being exported. More

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      New Benelli Electric Scooter Makes Global Debut With 60 Kms Range

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      Benelli Dong Electric Scooter
      Dong e-scooter has been designed strictly as an urban mobility solution with a single-charge range of only 60km
      Now, the Chinese are very well known for quirky and out-of-the-box designs and not in a good way. That is why most of their automotive designs are ripped off from international models. If you think, you have seen the craziest automotive designs then you are in for a treat, thanks to the new Benelli Dong electric scooter.
      Benelli recently introduced the mini e-scooter in Indonesia and it is certainly difficult to ignore despite its miniature size. The design is something very original that we doubt has been witnessed anywhere around the world. It has been designed to position as an affordable means of electric mobility.
      Benelli Dong Electric Scooter
      Quirky Design
      The e-scooter gets a curvy front apron that gels well with a cylindrical shape rear section with an under-seat panel housing the battery and electric motor. The floorboard tapers towards the rear to meet a silver-coloured serpentine-style swingarm.
      The e-scooter will be made available in three colour options- blue, dark grey and white. Other highlights include full-LED lighting, a circular LED DRL, turn indicators mounted on the handle, a large grab rail at rear and a negative LCD display for the instrument cluster.
      Benelli Dong Electric Scooter
      Modest Specs
      Speaking of its specifications, the majority of under-seat space is taken up by the 1.56kWh lithium-ion battery pack which is paired to a 1.2kW electric motor rated to produce a peak torque of 24.8 Nm. This powertrain returns a range of 60km on a single charge and can attain a top speed of only 45 kmph.
      Benelli Dong Electric Scooter
      Needless to point that it has been solely designed for short-distance urban commutes. The hub motor employed ensures that there is no need for either a chain or shaft drive system.
      This setup doesn’t leave much space for anything else in the under-seat storage, hence it isn’t the most practical scooter going around. The shape of the seat also wouldn’t be exactly ideal for a pillion. Another interesting bit of feature is the fake exhaust noise which gives it the vibe of a conventional IC engine-powered scooter. Fortunately, this feature could be turned off.
      Benelli Dong Electric Scooter
      Benelli Electric Scooter Price
      The Italian bike brand is owned by Chinese automaker Qianjiang Motors and little to doubt, we believe that QJ must have been involved in the development of this mini e-scooter on some level. Dong has been priced at 36.8 million Indonesian Rupiah that is equivalent to INR 1.89 lakh. Dong is surely a head-turner but is it valuable enough to be owned?

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      TVS Motor Sales April 2021 – Apache, Jupiter, Ntorq, XL Super

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      TVS ApacheTVS Motor now gears up for the launch of the updated Apache RR 310 which has been rescheduled due to the pandemic situation in the country
      TVS Motor Company has released their sales report for April 2021. While sales cannot be compared with that of April 2020, the period when the country went into a complete lockdown in view of the pandemic, we can compare sales MoM which also suffered a de-growth.
      TVS Motor total sales stood at 238,983 units in April 2021 a significant increase over 9,640 units sold in April 2020. Even April 2021 has been bogged down by lockdowns announced in some states in view of the second wave of the COVID-19 pandemic, but retail sales continued to be ahead of dispatches. TVS Motor has reduced dealer stocks so as to not to put added burden on channel partners but production will continue so as to meet customer demands once the situation is back to normal.
      TVS Motor Two Wheeler Sales and Exports
      TVS Motor registered two wheeler sales at 2,26,193 in April 2021 as against 8,134 units sold in April 2020. In domestic markets, two wheeler sales stood at 131,386 units in April 2021. Of these, scooter sales stood at 65,213 units in April 2021 while motorcycle sales were at 133,227 units in April 2021.
      Total exports on the other hand stood at 107,185 units in April 2021 as against 9,640 units exported in April 2020. Two wheeler exports stood at 94,807 units in April 2021 as against 8,134 units in April 2020. Leading two wheelers in terms of sales and exports include Apache, Jupiter, Ntorq, XL Super, Star City, Pep+, etc.
      TVS Motor Sales April 2021 vs March 2021
      The fear of the second wave, lockdowns in several states and supply constraints saw lower footfalls through the month of April 21 over that in March 21, the month when Covid positive cases in the country was on the ebb.
      Where MoM two wheeler domestic sales were concerned, TVS Motor Co had sold 1,31,386 units in March 21, a de-growth of 35.01 percent over 2,02,155 units sold in March 21. Two wheeler exports also dipped MoM by 9.95 percent from 1,05,282 units exported in March 21 to 94,807 units exported in the past month. Total two wheeler sales stood at 2,26,193 units in April 21 down 26.43 percent over 3,07,437 units sold in March 21.
      TVS Motor Three Wheeler Sales and Exports
      Taking into account YoY three wheeler sales, the company reported sales of 12,790 units in April 2021 as against 1,506 units in April 2020. Three wheeler MoM sales however, dipped both in terms of domestic sales and exports. Domestic sales fell 62.75 percent to 412 units in April 21 even as sales had stood at 1,106 units in March 21.
      Exports on the other hand dipped 12.46 percent from 14,140 units exported in March 21 to 12,378 units exported in the past month. This took total two and three wheeler sales (domestic and exports) down 25.94 percent to 2,38,983 units in April 21 down from 3,22,683 units sold in March 21.
      Future Plans
      Where future plans are concerned, TVS Motor gears up for the launch of the updated Apache RR 310 in the months ahead while the company also plans to expand sales of the iQube electric scooter in new cities across the country. More

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      Bajaj Sales April 2021 – Pulsar, Avenger, Dominar, Platina, CT100

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      Image – Biker Prakash ChoudharyBajaj Auto recorded their second highest ever exports in April 2021
      Even as the two wheeler segment saw some promise over the past few months, a sharp rise in COVID-19 cases pan India and lockdowns announced by several state governments has affected domestic sales once again. April 2020 was a month of 0 sales and hence YoY comparisons are not being evaluated.
      Bajaj Auto Limited has released their two wheeler and commercial vehicle sales for April 2021. While we cannot compare domestic sales to any previous year’s figures, it may be seen from the attached table that the company has done well in terms of exports.
      Two Wheeler Sales
      In the past month, Bajaj Auto sold a total of 1,26,570 two wheelers in domestic markets. Leading sales charts were Bajaj motorcycles like Pulsar, Platina, CT100, Avenger, Dominar, etc.
      However, it was its export figures that need a mention. The company has recorded its second highest ever exports in April 21, which stood at 2,21,603 units, up from 32,009 units exported in April 20. This took total sales in this segment to 3,48,173 units.
      Bajaj Sales April 2021
      Even as sales of commercial vehicles in domestic markets stood at 7,901 units in the past month, Bajaj Auto has noted a marked increase in commercial vehicle exports. A total of 31,942 commercial vehicles were exported last month, up from 5,869 units exported in April 20. Total sales in April 21 hence stood at 39,843 units with 0 commercial vehicle domestic sales recorded in April 20.
      Total 2 Wheeler and CV Sales
      Bajaj Auto reported total domestic sales, which included that of two wheelers and commercial vehicles, at 1,34,471 units. Exports were their second highest ever at 2,53,545 units in April 21, up from 37,878 units exported in April 20 thus taking total sales in April 21 up to 3,88,016 units.
      New launches in the past month included that of the Pulsar NS 125. Priced at Rs.93,690, this new bike will further strengthen the brand’s position in the Entry Sport Bike segment. It gets its power via a 12cc, BS6 compliant DTS-i motor that offers 12 hp power at 8,500 rpm and 11 Nm torque at 7,000 rpm mated to a 5 speed transmission and comes in with Nitrox mono shock absorbers offering better stability even at higher speeds. Braking setup consists of a single 240 mm disc brake in front and a130 mm drum brake at the rear along with CBS.
      Following the launch of the NS 125m, Bajaj also introduced the Dagger Edge editions of the Pulsar 150, 180 and 220F. Each of these three special edition models see no change in engine specifications but receive new color options, distinctive badging and graphics to set them apart. The Dagger Edge Edition Pulsar 150 is priced at Rs. 1.02 lakhs while the the Pulsar 150 (twin disc) retails at Rs. 1.05 lakhs. The Dagger Edge Pulsar 180 carries a price tag of Rs.1.10 lakhs and top end Pulsar 220F is at R. 1.28 lakh. More

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      Suzuki Two Wheelers Sales April 2021 – Gixxer, Burgman, Access

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      Image – Sinha SuzukiApril 2021 proves to be a high point for Suzuki Two Wheelers having reported its highest ever monthly sales in India
      As the country battles growing devastation that Covid-19 brings with it each day, businesses too are being affected. For starters production modules are being closely watched to adapt to situations that are changing on a daily basis. Add to this, an increasing number of state issued lockdown protocols announced in recent weeks. The situation has again begun to become increasingly difficult for businesses.
      Suzuki two wheelers has held its own despite an uncertain April. Cumulative sales is reported at 77,849 units. Considering no manufacturing and sales activity in April 2020, a YoY comparison is not possible. If April 2019 numbers are considered, the increase is at 18 percent.
      Suzuki India Sales – April 2021
      Domestic sales and export growth
      Of total sales in April 2021, domestic sales is reported at 63,879 units. MoM gain is reported at 6.07 percent, up from 60,222 units. Volume gain is reported at 3,657 units. Top sellers include Access, Burgman and Gixxer.
      Exports are reported at 13,970 units. MoM gain stood at 43.72 percent, up from 9,720 units. Volume gain is up at 4,250 units. MoM cumulative sales growth is stood at 11.31 percent. Sales grew from 69,942 units at volume gain of 7,907 units.
      Suzuki India Sales – April 2021
      Koichiro Hirao, Managing Director, Suzuki Motorcycle India Pvt Ltd. said, “It is very satisfying that despite all the challenges associated with the second surge of Covid-19 Pandemic in the month of April, we could post of 12% YOY growth in domestic and an exceptional 57.5% growth in our exports volumes.”
      2021 Suzuki Hayabusa launch in India
      Given current circumstances, the start to FY22 is at best uncertain. SMIPL has gotten ahead on a strong foot to FY22. Earlier in the week, the company launched the all new Hayabusa. The first batch of 101 units was booked allotted to India were sold out in 2 days of bookings being opened.
      Last week, the company announced shift reduction at its Haryana plant. For four days, April 28 to May 1, 2021, the plant ran for a single shift instead of the regular 3 shifts.
      The company has also recalled Suzuki Gixxer 250 and Gixxer SF 250 units on account of an excessive vibration problem. The recall covers 199 units that were manufactured between August 12, 2019 and March 21, 2021.
      SMIPL is contacting customers regarding the same. Excessive vibrations are on account of balancer shaft positioning in the engine. The vibrations could result in two of the six nuts in the tail-light casing to come loose. More

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      Royal Enfield April 2021 Sales – Classic, Meteor, Bullet, Electra, Himalayan

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      Image – The Bengal RiderRoyal Enfield reports total sales in April 2021 at 53,298 units at 10 percent MoM decline
      The start to FY22 is one of sheer uncertainty. What seemed like a few good months was quite simply a prelude to absolute resolution. In this environ of daily death and destruction, auto manufacturers are putting their best strategies forward to move from day to day as best as possible.
      Royal Enfield has reported domestic wholesales for April 2021 at just below 50k units. YoY comparison is impossible considering the nationwide lockdown through April 2020 when manufacturing and sales had been stopped. A year later, there’s more business for businesses, and more affliction for citizens.
      Domestic sales in April 2021
      Of total sales, domestic sales in Apr ’21 accounted for 91.54 percent of volumes. MoM decline stood at 18.92 percent, down from 60,173 units. Volume decline stood at 11,384 units. Of this, the 350cc segment accounted for 46,561 units. It also makes up the bulk of domestic sales at 87.36 percent. MoM decline stood at 20 percent, down from 58,471 units. Volume decline is reported at just under 12k units.
      The 350+ cc accounted for 6,737 units contributing to 12.64 percent of domestic sales. MoM sales fell by 11 percent, down from 7,587 units. Volume decline stood at 850 units. Exports is reported at 4.5k units. This accounts for 8.46 percent of total sales for Apr ’21. MoM exports fell by 23.38 percent, down from 5,885 units. Volume loss stood at 1,376 units.
      Royal Enfield Sales April 2021
      Total sales last month is reported at 53,298 units. MoM sales decline is reported at just below 20 percent. Sales fell from just over 66k units. Volume loss stood at 12,760 units. Best selling motorcycles include Classic 350, Meteor, Bullet, Electra. Himalayan and 650 Twins also registered decent numbers.
      New motorcycles from Royal Enfield
      It’s not difficult to see why MoM sales was inevitable. Each year one witnesses a sales push in March on account of a new financial year approaching. This inevitably implies a revised price list across manufacturer product portfolios prompting purchase decisions. Add to this the continuous growth in infection numbers across India through April 2021.
      Given the current situation, states have in recent weeks announced curated lockdowns. This means, dealerships across key markets are yet again shut for business. Apart from the sales end, production end activity too is being constantly monitored.
      This also puts focus on impending launches. Following the launch of Meteor, Royal Enfield is geared up to launch a bike in the 350cc segment and 650cc segment. The latter helps the manufacturer expand its global footprint in the mid-segment. The recently launched Meteor will be retailed in USA in select trims. More