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Simple Energy Prices Ultra Electric Scooter at Rs 2.34 Lakh

Shruti Shiraguppi — Fri, 17 Apr 2026 12:45:00

Simple Energy on April 17 announced the price of its Simple Ultra electric scooter at INR 2,34,999 (ex-showroom), with deliveries now underway across its retail network in India.

The Bengaluru-based electric two-wheeler maker unveiled the Ultra earlier this year as part of its Gen 2 portfolio. The scooter is powered by a 6.5 kWh battery and offers an IDC range of 400 km, which the company claims is the longest of any electric scooter in India. It has a top speed of 115 kmph and accelerates from 0 to 40 kmph in 2.77 seconds, making it the second fastest electric scooter in India after the Simple One (5 kWh variant).

The Ultra comes equipped with four-level traction control and a seven-inch display console.

Suhas Rajkumar, Founder and CEO, said, "At Simple Energy, we engineer with intent. The Simple Ultra is built for riders who demand extreme range and performance without compromise. With a 400 km IDC range and high-performance architecture, it sets a new benchmark for electric two-wheelers in India. With prices now revealed and deliveries underway, we are delivering truly anxiety-free electric mobility at scale, backed by our expanding pan-India network."

The Ultra is available for test rides and purchase at Simple Stores or at simpleenergy.in. Simple Energy currently operates close to 70 touchpoints across cities including Bengaluru, Delhi, Hyderabad, Chennai, Kochi, and Goa, and plans to expand to Nagpur, Ranchi, and Bhubaneswar in the coming months.

The Simple Ultra is Simple Energy's fourth product action in 2026. Earlier this year, the company launched the Gen 2 versions of the Simple One and Simple OneS. The Simple One Gen 2 retails from INR 1,94,999 (ex-showroom, Bengaluru) with a range of up to 265 km, while the Simple OneS Gen 2 is priced at INR 1,74,999 with a range of 190 km.

Exclusive: Royal Enfield Eyes Output of Up to 1.32 million 2Ws in FY27, Double-digit Growth in Domestic Volume

Ketan Thakkar — Fri, 17 Apr 2026 11:16:36

Despite growing competition from global brands such as Triumph, Harley-Davidson and Honda, Royal Enfield continues to outpace the broader motorcycle market, riding on sustained demand in the mid-size segment.

After crossing the 1-million mark in domestic dispatches and the 1.2-million mark in total dispatches in the financial year 2026, the company is looking to maintain its growth momentum with a fresh push in production and sales for the financial year 2027.

The company did not respond to Autocar Professional’s request for comment on its financial year 2027 production and sales plans.

According to sources familiar with the company’s plans, Royal Enfield is targeting to manufacture about 1.28-1.32 million two-wheelers in the financial year 2027, representing up to 6% growth from its estimated output of 1.24 million units in the financial year 2026. The company is also aiming to sustain strong domestic market demand momentum with double-digit growth after delivering a sharp rise in volumes over the past year.

Domestic volumes rose 23% to 1.11 million units, while exports also climbed 23% to 131,316 units, underlining balanced growth in both segments. The company’s total dispatches reached 12.39 million units in the financial year 2026, compared with 10.10 million in the previous year.

The growth story continues to be driven largely by the 350cc portfolio, which remains the backbone of Royal Enfield’s volumes. Models with engine capacity up to 350cc accounted for more than 10.87 lakh units during the financial year 2026, growing significantly faster than motorcycles in higher displacement categories.

Domestic sales stood at 1.11 million units, reflecting strong demand in the home market. Sources said the company is targeting to cross the 1.2 million mark in domestic sales this year as it builds on the momentum generated in the previous year.

The company’s rising volumes also translated into a stronger presence in the overall two-wheeler market. Its market share improved to 5.18%, up from 4.48% a year earlier, making it one of the major gainers in the industry during the financial year 2026. The steady performance was supported by sustained demand for its core models and continued expansion in international markets.

Alongside its core internal combustion portfolio, Royal Enfield has also taken its first step into the electric motorcycle segment, marking a significant shift in its long-term strategy. The company recently launched the Flying Flea C6, its first electric motorcycle, at an ex-showroom price of Rs 2.79 lakh, becoming the first traditional motorcycle maker in the country to roll out an electric motorcycle.

In a bid to lower the upfront cost, the company is offering the motorcycle at Rs 1.99 lakh under a battery-as-a-service option. Deliveries are scheduled to begin from the end of May, the company said.

The company plans to follow a phased rollout strategy, starting with Bengaluru, as it looks to gradually build its presence in the premium electric motorcycle segment. The Flying Flea C6 has been positioned as an urban-focused electric motorcycle, with the company aiming to differentiate on design, performance and connectivity rather than compete purely on price.

The model is the first product under the Flying Flea brand, which was unveiled at the EICMA show in Milan in 2024, where the company had announced two motorcycles — the classic-styled FF-C6 and the scrambler-styled FF-S6. The C6 will be followed by the S6 as part of the brand’s initial product portfolio.

With production targets rising, new products in the pipeline and a cautious entry into electric mobility, Royal Enfield appears to be positioning itself for another year of steady expansion as it builds on the strong base created in the financial year 2026.

The company remains optimistic about the outlook for the premium motorcycle segment, which is expected to grow faster than the broader industry. The company believes the overall motorcycle market is likely to expand in high single digits in the coming year, while the premium segment is expected to maintain stronger momentum.

“We will continue to outgrow the market. That’s our ambition,” Royal Enfield CEO B Govindarajan told investors earlier this year, pointing to a strong product pipeline and brand-building initiatives planned to coincide with the company’s 125th anniversary celebrations.

Yamaha Introduces Design Refresh For Fascino Scooter

Dev Vadchhedia — Thu, 16 Apr 2026 12:27:56

Yamaha Motor has introduced a design update for its Fascino 125 Fi Hybrid scooter. The revision focuses on a more compact silhouette, specifically modifying the rear profile to reduce the overall length to 1780 mm.

The styling updates include a newly sculpted tail section, along with redesigned taillights, flashers, and a Viconic taillight design. Yamaha's research and development team based in India conceptualized these changes, which also incorporate new decals.

The scooter continues to be powered by a 125cc air-cooled, fuel-injected, four-stroke engine. The hybrid system utilizes a Smart Motor Generator, a stop and start system, and enhanced power assist. Standard features include telescopic suspension, a side stand engine cut-off, 21 liters of underseat storage, and compatibility with E20 fuel.

The updated Fascino will be available across Yamaha showrooms, including Blue Square Outlets. Ex-showroom prices in Delhi begin at ₹76,500 for the Drum variant. The Disc variant is priced at ₹88,000, while the Fascino S is priced at ₹95,200. The premium S variant includes a color TFT instrument cluster with turn-by-turn navigation and an answer back function.

The rollout of the updated design aligns with the Fascino reaching a 1.5 million production milestone. The scooter model was originally introduced to the market in 2015.

Ducati India Announce Price Hike Across Models From June 2026

Dev Vadchhedia — Thu, 16 Apr 2026 12:10:56

Ducati will increase prices of select motorcycles in India from June 1, 2026, citing rising operational and input costs.

The revision will apply to certain models across the company’s portfolio and will be reflected in ex-showroom prices. The updated pricing will be implemented through Ducati’s dealership network in major cities including New Delhi, Mumbai, Pune, Bengaluru, Chennai, Kochi, Hyderabad and Kolkata.

The company has not disclosed the extent of the price increase or the specific models affected.

The move comes at a time when manufacturers across segments are reassessing pricing strategies in response to inflationary pressures and higher commodity costs. In the premium motorcycle segment, where Ducati operates, pricing adjustments are typically calibrated to maintain margins while sustaining demand among high-end buyers.

The development coincides with an active product pipeline for Ducati in India this year. The company recently entered a new segment with the launch of the Desmo450 MX and is expected to introduce several new models over the course of 2026, including updates to its Panigale, Monster, Hypermotard, DesertX and Multistrada ranges.

Industry analysts note that while demand in the premium motorcycle segment has remained relatively resilient, cost pressures continue to influence pricing decisions across the automotive sector.

EMotorad Launches Viper Electric Cycle in India

Dev Vadchhedia — Thu, 16 Apr 2026 11:39:58

EMotorad has launched a new electric cycle, the Viper, as it looks to expand its presence in India’s growing personal electric mobility segment.

Priced at ₹66,999, the model features a 48V 250W rear hub motor paired with a removable 48V 15.6Ah battery. The company claims a range of up to 85 km with pedal assist and around 70 km on throttle mode, positioning it within the mid-range segment of electric cycles in the country.

The cycle is equipped with front and rear suspension, hydraulic disc brakes, and wide tyres, reflecting a design approach that caters to both urban roads and uneven terrain. It also features a Shimano 7-speed drivetrain and is designed to support riders weighing up to 110 kg.

One of the key additions in the Viper is an NFC-based unlocking system, allowing users to access the vehicle without a physical key. The model also includes a digital display, multiple pedal-assist modes, and integrated lighting for improved visibility.

The launch comes amid rising interest in electric cycles in India, driven by demand for low-cost, short-distance mobility alternatives that do not require registration or licensing. Industry players have been adding features such as connected systems and higher-capacity batteries to differentiate their offerings in an increasingly competitive market.

EMotorad say that the Viper will be available through the company’s dealership network as well as online platforms.

Record scooter and bike sales power TVS to best-ever 4.24 million units in FY2026

Ajit Dalvi — Thu, 16 Apr 2026 10:55:36

TVS Motor Co has raced into FY2027 on a really powerful note. The Chennai-based manufacturer of scooters, motorcycles and mopeds sold a record 42,43,524 or 4.24 million two-wheelers in FY2026, up 21% (FY2025: 3.51 million units). This total comprises 2.30 million scooters (up 18% YoY), 1.41 million motorcycles (up 7% YoY) and 523,240 mopeds (up 4% YoY).

With this stellar performance and sales of an additional 724,299 two-wheelers YoY, FY2026 is now the new fiscal-year benchmark for TVS, beating the previous best of 3.51 million units in FY2025. Similar to FY2025, the strong 27% growth in scooters has powered overall numbers (see 11-year wholesales data table below).

In FY2026, TVS hit a new high in scooters (2.30 million) and bikes (1.41 million) which drove its highest-ever 2W sales of 4.24 million units. Moped sales were highest in FY2017 (890,367 units).

While combined sales of the petrol-engined Jupiter, NTorq 125 and Zest at 19,35,200 units rose 26%, TVS also dispatched 273,063 units of the iQube and Orbiter electric scooters, up 44% YoY.

SCOOTERS: 23,02,701 units, up 27%
Best-ever fiscal – FY2026
TVS Motor Co, which has the Jupiter, NTorq and Zest in its ICE scooter stable and the iQube and Orbiter as EVs, sold a record 2.30 million scooters, up 27% YoY (FY2025: 1.81 million units). Year-on-year, TVS sold an additional 489,958 units which has helped increase its scooter share to 28% from the 26% it had in FY2025.

While the three petrol-engined scooters have together sold 19,35,200 units, up 26% YoY, the two TVS electric scooters (367,501 units) have clocked 35% YoY growth (FY2025: 273,063 iQubes). This gives TVS an e-2W penetration level of 16%, improving on the 15% of FY2025.

On the e-2W retail sales front, TVS Motor (341,471 units, up 44% YoY) was instrumental in enabling the overall e-2W segment achieve record customer deliveries of 1.4 million units in FY2026. With a 24% e-2W retail market share in FY2026, TVS is the new market leader, having unseated Ola Electric which led for three straight fiscals from FY2023 to FY2025.

With highest-ever sales of 571,376 units, the Apache series posted 28% growth to be the best-selling motorcycle brand for TVS, ahead of the Raider 125 (426,877 units) whose best fiscal was FY2024.

MOTORCYCLES: 14,17,583 units, up 18%
Best-ever fiscal – FY2026

Like the TVS scooters, the company’s motorcycle portfolio also achieved its highest-ever sales in a fiscal in FY2026. The 1.41 million units are an 18% YoY increase (FY2025: 1.20 million units, down 2% YoY), which translates into an additional 213,274 units YoY. FY2026’s 14,17,583 motorcycles beat the previous best of FY2024 (12,23,838 bikes).

In the entry-level 110cc segment, combined sales of the three TVS bikes (Radeon, Sport, Star City Plus) at 329,094 units were up 3% YoY. In the 125cc Bike category, the Raider 125 saw sales of 426,877 units, up 7% YoY, and had a 12% share of this segment’s total sales of 3.61 million units. The Raider’s best-ever sales were in FY2024 (478,443 units).

The boost for TVS bike sales have come from its Apache series in the 150-200cc segment wherein it continues to lead the market. The TVS Apache brand comprises four models of the Apache RTR Series – RTR 160, RTR 160 4V, RTR 180 and RTR 200. With total wholesales of 571,376 units and robust 28% YoY growth (FY2025: 446,218 units), the Apache, which is also available in the higher RTR 310 and RR 310 avatars along with the RTX 300 adventure bike, had a segment-leading 38% share in FY2026.

Another sales accelerator came in the form of the premium 225cc Ronin – sales jumped 137% YoY to 80,518 units (FY2025: 33,977 units). Demand for the 310 series bikes also soared by 128% YoY to 9,718 units from 4,262 units in FY2025.

In FY2026, sales of the TVS XL100 once again crossed the half-a-million mark at 523,240 units – 21,427 units more than in FY2025. Moped sales saw their zenith in FY2017 (890,518 units).

MOPEDS: 523,240 units, up 30%

Best-ever fiscal – FY2017: 890,367 units
TVS continues to witness a good contribution to its overall two-wheeler sales from the humble moped – the product at the lowest end of the two-wheeler pyramid. In FY2026, sales of the TVS XL100 crossed the half-a-million mark at 523,240 units – 21,427 units more than in FY2025 (501,813 units).

Moped sales in India and for TVS had hit their highest level in FY2017 (890,518 units, up 23% YoY) and in FY2019 (880,234 units, up 2%). However, with consumers shifting to gearless scooters (like the TVS Jupiter launched in FY2014 and the company’s first 125cc scooter (NTorq) in FY2018 as also a clutch of rider-friendly bikes, the decline in moped sales had begun.

What keeps the moped mantra ticking for TVS is the small two-wheeler’s affordability quotient, good mileage, and high level of reliability as a carrier of household goods, dairy and agricultural produce for small traders, particularly in rural India. Most of the moped demand is understood to generate from South India, Gujarat and regions of Madhya Pradesh.

FY2027 should see TVS Motor Co, which overtook Yamaha Motor Corp in global 2W sales in CY2025 to become the world’s No. 3 manufacturer after Honda and Hero MotoCorp, further up the ante. The past three years have seen the Chennai-based company substantially increase both its domestic and export market share. While its domestic 2W share has risen to 20% from 16% in FY2023, TVS is the second-ranked 2W exporter after Bajaj Auto with market share of 28% versus 25% in FY2023.

ALSO READ: TVS, Bajaj, Ather, Hero Vida power record e-2W sales in March: 190,941 units

TVS targets 6.8-7.2 million 2W production in FY2027, looks to challenge Honda

Suzuki Hayabusa sales in India hit highest level in FY2026: 543 units

Ajit Dalvi — Thu, 16 Apr 2026 09:01:00

Even as the domestic motorcycle market clocked record wholesales of 13 million units in FY2026, with the bulk – 5.91 million units – coming from the entry-level 100-110cc segment, niche categories like the 1000-1600cc segment which has superbikes like the Suzuki Hayabusa, Kawasaki Ninja 1100SX and Harley-Davidson Pan America among others, also scaled a new fiscal year high of 1,105 units, up 22% YoY, to beat this bike category’s previous best of 939 units in FY2022. As it did in FY2025, the 1340cc Hayabusa, Suzuki Motorcycle India’s flagship model, remains the best-selling model in this segment.

In FY2026, the Suzuki Hayabusa sold a record 543 units, up 6% YoY (FY2025: 511 units) and accounted for 49% of this sub-category’s sales. The Hayabusa would have sold at least 100 units more in FY2026. In H1 FY2026, this Suzuki superbike sold 324 units but sales in H2 FY2026 dropped 32% on the first-half to 219 units. This decline can be attributed to the fact that GST 2.0, which drove up prices of large-capacity 350cc-plus motorcycles, saw the Hayabusa’s price jump up by Rs 116,000 to Rs 18.06 lakh (ex-showroom, Delhi) from Rs 16.90 lakh.

The Hayabusa sold a record 543 units in FY2026. However, with GST 2.0 driving up its price by Rs 116,000, sales in H2 FY2026 dropped 32% on H1. Total sales in India now nearing 3,000 units.

Exactly a year ago, on April 11, 2025, Suzuki Motorcycle India launched the Model Year 2025 edition which complies with OBD-2B norms. Since Suzuki Motorcycle India began selling the Hayabusa, first as an import and then as a locally produced motorcycle from its Gurugram plant, cumulative sales of the performance bike, as per SIAM wholesales data, are 2,943 units (see 12-year sales data table above).

The Hayabusa, which is one of the most popular superbikes on sale in India and represents cutting-edge engineering at its best, is now in its third-generation model, which has been on sale in India since 2021. Underneath its striking exterior, the third-gen Hayabusa houses the 1340cc in-line, four-cylinder, fuel-injected liquid-cooled DOHC engine which develops 190bhp at 9700rpm and 150 Nm torque and has a top speed of 300kph.

As the first production motorcycle capable of breaking the 300kph barrier, the Suzuki Hayabusa represents cutting-edge engineering and is currently sold in India as the third-generation model.

SEGMENT-TOPPER HAYABUSA COMMANDS 49% SEGMENT SHARE IN FY2026

As in FY2025, the Suzuki Hayabusa topped the 1000-1600cc motorcycle segment with its record sales of 543 units, which gives it a 49% share of this sub-segment. However, this is 8 percentage points on the 57% share it had in FY2025 which, as mentioned earlier, is due to the GST 2.0-driven price increase on large-capacity bikes.

The Hayabusa (543 units) topped the 1000-1600cc segment for the fourth year running albeit its segment share has fallen to 49% from 57% in FY2025. Kawasaki posted strong gains in FY2026.

In second place in India Kawasaki Motors with 281 units of the Ninja 1100SX and Versys 1000, up 361% on a low year-ago base of 61 units. This sees Kawasaki ride ahead of Triumph India – the No. 2 in FY2025 – which saw sales drop 24% YoY to 159 units. The No. 4 in the 1000-1600cc bike category is Harley-Davidson India with 120 units, one more than the 119 sold in FY2025.

The three Triumph motorcycles – 1200cc T120, Bobber and Speedmaster, took second spot with combined sales of 208 units, up 28%, which gave them a 23% share in FY2025. While the 1252cc-engined Harley-Davidson Sportster S and Pan America 1250 Special together sold 119 units, up 11% YoY, the 998cc Kawasaki Ninjas sold 61 units, three less than they did in FY2024.

In FY2026, Suzuki Motorcycle India sold a total of 1.17 million two-wheelers, up 12% YoY. This comprised 11,57,546 scooters, up 13%, and 17,328 motorcycles.

Scooter sales hit record levels of 8.11 million units in FY2026, EV share grows to 13%

Ajit Dalvi — Wed, 15 Apr 2026 09:16:24

If the overall Indian two-wheeler industry, which comprises motorcycles, scooters and mopeds, achieved record wholesales of 21.70 million units with strong 11% YoY growth in FY2026, then it’s thanks to the robust growth displayed by the scooter segment. In FY2026, nine scooter manufacturers sold a record 8.1 million units (81,17,945 units, up 18.5% YoY) to beat the previous best of 6.85 million units in FY2025 and set a new benchmark (see 11-year data table below).

FY2026 scooter wholesales exceeded FY2025 sales by 1.26 million units, averaging monthly sales of 676,495 units or 1,853 scooters every day last fiscal! What helped accelerate scooter sales was the leading OEMs rolling out refreshed as well as new models, revival of demand from rural India and semi-urban regions of the country, and sale of 1.08 million electric scooters. However, what really lit the fireworks for this segment (as well as for the rest of the automobile industry) was the GST 2.0 reform which helped slash new vehicle prices and enabled a higher level of affordability.

In FY2026, monthly scooter sales surpassed 800,000 units once, 700,000 units five times, 600,000 units twice, and 500,000 units four times to average daily dispatches of 1,853 units every day.

The 12-month FY2026 sales numbers (shown above) reveal that Scooter India Inc hit a monthly high of 824,003 units in festive October 2025, surpassed 700,000 units five times (September and November 2025, January-March 2026) and over 500,000 units four times (April, May, June and December 2025). Interestingly, December, which is usually a month of tepid sales due to buyers deferring purchases to the new calendar year, saw sales of 594,744 units, up 42% YoY.

While combined Q1-Q2 FY2026 sales at 3.72 million units rose 6% over H1 FY2025, GST 2.0-driven price cuts saw the H2 FY2026 (Q3 and Q4) register 31% YoY growth with 4.39 million scooters.

The massive positive impact of GST 2.0 reform, which kicked in from end-September 2025 and offered substantial reduction in ICE scooter prices, can be seen in the four quarters’ sales splits (above). While Q1 FY2026 with 1.66 million scooters made for flat (0%) sales, demand picked up in Q2 (2.05 million units, up 12%), rose further in Q3 (2.15 million units, up 26%) and soared to a new quarterly high in Q4 (2.24 million units, up 36%).

In terms of half-yearly sales, H1 FY2026 at 3.72 million units made for 6% YoY growth (H1 FY2025: 3.49 million units). GST 2.0-fueled price cuts powered sales in the second half of FY2026 to 4.39 million units, which is a stellar 31% YoY increase (H2 FY2025: 3.35 million units). H2 FY2026 sales accounted for 54% of the record 8.11 million scooters sold last fiscal.

While TVS sold 489,958 more scooters YoY, market leader Honda sold an additional 317,665 units. This sees TVS’ share rising to 28% from 26%, while Honda’s is down to 39% from 41.50% in FY2025.

HONDA REMAINS NO. 1 BUT TVS, HERO VIDA & ATHER ENERGY INCREASE THEIR MARKET SHARE
Scooter market leader Honda Motorcycle & Scooter India’s sales rose 11% YoY to a new high of 3.16 million units in FY2026, helping it retain the No. 1 spot albeit its share has declined to 39% from 41.50% in FY2025 and 43.33% in FY2024. Honda’s scooter portfolio comprises the Activa 110 and 125 and the Dio 110 and 125. Year-on-year, Honda sold an additional 317,665 units, which is fewer than TVS (an additional 489,958 scooters over FY2025).

TVS Motor Co, which has the Jupiter, NTorq and Zest in its ICE scooter stable and the iQube and Orbiter as EVs, sold a record 2.30 million scooters, up 27% YoY. This gives it a 28% market share, up from the 26% it had in FY2025. While the three petrol-engined scooters have sold 19,35,200 units, up 26% YoY, the two TVS e-scooters with 367,501 units have clocked 35% YoY growth (FY2025: 273,063 iQubes). Year-on-year, TVS sold an additional 489,958 units which has helped drive its scooter share increase.

Suzuki Motorcycle India clocked wholesales of 11,57,546 units, up 13% YoY (FY2025: 10,24,668 units). However, as a result of TVS’ rapid growth, Suzuki’s scooter share has dropped marginally to 14% from 15% in FY2025. While the Access 125 remains its best-selling product, what helps Suzuki is that its two other scooters – Avenis and Burgman Street – are also powered by the same 125cc engine and are benefiting from the consumer upgrade to the 125cc segment.

Fourth-ranked scooter OEM Hero MotoCorp sold 572,870 units in FY2026 to register strong 46% YoY growth (FY2025: 391,41 units). Hero’s scooter range comprises the 110cc Pleasure and Xoom, 125cc Destini/Destini Prime and the 156cc Xoom 160. These together have sold 424,397 units, up 27% YoY (FY2025: 332,916 units). The big boost has come from the Hero Vida electric scooters – the 148,473 units sold are a 154% YoY increase (FY2025: 58,503 EVs).

India Yamaha Motor, with 323,976 units, posted 5% growth and sees its scooter market share reduce marginally to to 4% from 4.51% a year ago. The 125cc-engined Fascino and Ray ZR have together sold 298,729 units, up 4% YoY. Meanwhile, the 155cc Aerox scooter, with 24,923 units, witnessed 9% growth (FY2025: 22,928 units).

Bajaj Auto sold 305,724 e-scooters in FY2026, surpassing the 300,000 milestone for the first time in a fiscal year. The sales comprise 302,674 Chetaks (up 16%) and 3,050 Yulu e-bikes (down 82%). Bajaj EV sales are 10% YoY increase albeit its scooter market share has dipped a tad to 3.76% from 4% a year ago. This

Ather Energy, which is on a roll and witnessing strong sales traction for its Rizta family e-scooter, clocked record wholesales of 260,070 units, up 67% (FY2025: 155,405 units). This standout performance sees the smart EV start-up increase its market share to 3.20% from 2.26% in FY2025 and 1.85% in FY2024.

TVS, Bajaj Auto, Ather Energy and Hero Vida each registered their best-ever EV wholesales in FY2026.

EV SHARE OF SCOOTER SALES INCREASES TO 13% WITH RECORD 1.08 MILLION UNITS
India’s scooter industry, which has 45 models including 16 electric scooters, has benefitted from the sustained demand for zero-emission models. Of the nine scooter OEMs which are SIAM members, eight – TVS, Bajaj Auto, Ather Energy, Hero MotoCorp, Honda, Suzuki, Yamaha and Okinawa Autotech – manufacture zero-emission scooters. Piaggio is the only one which doesn’t sell EVs in India.

In FY2026, these eight e-scooter OEMs sold a record 10,86,815 EVs, up 41% YoY (FY2025: 773,093 e-scooters). This gives them a 13% share of the 8.11 million scooters sold last fiscal, improving upon the 11% share they had in FY2025 and 8% in FY2024, and helping accelerate overall scooter industry numbers in FY2026 to a new high.

The three legacy players – TVS Motor Co, Bajaj Auto and Hero MotoCorp – as well as smart e-scooter start-up Ather Energy have each registered their best-ever fiscal year sales of e-scooters. While TVS tops the e-scooter segment with a 34% share (367,501 units of the 10,86,815 e-scooters sold), Bajaj Auto (277,183 Chetak and Yulu) has a 25% share. Ather Energy, 17,113 units behind Bajaj Auto, shone in FY2026 with a 24% share (260,070 units) and Hero MotoCorp’s Vida brand with 148,473 e-scooters grabbed a 14% share. The three Japanese OEMs – Honda, Yamaha and Suzuki – together sold 4,974 units to get a minuscule 0.45% share of the e-scooter market.

Will the scooter industry, with its current strong double-digit growth, surpass the 9-million milestone in FY2027? The jury remains out on that score, particularly amidst the ongoing global crude oil crisis which is also an opportunity for electric scooter makers to drive home their message of wallet-friendly zero-emission mobility.

ALSO READ: Record 1.4 million electric 2Ws sold in FY2026, command 57% share of India EV market

EV sales in India surpass 2.45 million units in FY2026, all 4 segments register double-digit growth

Indian Auto Industry Concludes FY26 at Historic Highs as March Shipments Surge

Sreejith Rajan — Tue, 14 Apr 2026 14:00:10

The Indian automobile sector ended the 2026 financial year on an unprecedented high, with both factory dispatches and retail registrations shattering previous records. Data released concurrently by the Society of Indian Automobile Manufacturers (SIAM) and the Federation of Automobile Dealers Associations (FADA) reveals that March 2026 witnessed broad-based, double-digit growth, capping off a historic fiscal year that pushed total retail sales tantalizingly close to the three-crore milestone.

In the passenger vehicle segment, wholesale dispatches reported by SIAM surged by 16.0% year-on-year to reach 4,42,460 units. This strong factory output was seamlessly absorbed at the dealership level. Earlier in the month, FADA had reported that passenger vehicle retail sales hit 4,40,144 units for the month, representing a stellar 21.48% growth. FADA also reported PV inventory levels at 28 days.

The two-wheeler market, traditionally a vital barometer for the broader economy, delivered an explosive performance. Automakers dispatched 19,76,128 units according to SIAM, a 19.3% jump heavily fueled by a nearly 30% spike in scooter demand. On the ground, retail registrations were even more impressive. FADA data showed two-wheeler retail sales soared by 28.68% to 19,51,006 units in March.

Commercial and three-wheeler segments echoed this positive sentiment. SIAM noted a 21.4% increase in three-wheeler domestic wholesales to 76,273 units, while actual retail registrations tracked by FADA stood at 1,09,777 units, a 10.52% rise.

Numbers for the financial year show a dramatic, mid-year turnaround. FADA characterized fiscal 2026 as a "two-phase" year. The period from April to August remained noticeably muted, weighed down by consumer caution and uncertainty surrounding the transition to the GST 2.0 framework. However, the September to March window saw a decisive upshift as the implementation of GST 2.0 ultimately improved affordability, lifted consumer sentiment, and triggered an unstoppable retail momentum.

Ola Electric Launches S1 X+ 5.2 kWh Scooter at ₹1.3 Lakh

Arunima Pal — Mon, 13 Apr 2026 15:48:10

Ola Electric has launched the S1 X+ electric scooter with a 5.2 kWh battery pack, priced at an introductory ₹1,29,999 until April 15, 2026, the company said on Monday.

The model is powered by the company’s in-house developed 4680 Bharat Cell, marking the wider rollout of its cell technology to mass-market products. The launch is part of Ola Electric’s strategy to expand the use of its vertically integrated battery and vehicle platform.

An Ola Electric Spokesperson said, “Vertical integration enables the
ability to innovate deeply, scale quickly, and bring our best technology to more and more customers, faster. S1 X+ 5.2 kWh is where performance, range and scale come together."

The S1 X+ 5.2 kWh is equipped with an 11 kW mid-drive motor and an integrated motor control unit. It offers a claimed range of 320 km (IDC) and a top speed of 125 km/h. The scooter also features brake-by-wire technology and a front disc brake system.

The company said the new variant is aimed at increasing access to longer-range electric scooters in the mid-price segment.

Ola Electric’s current portfolio includes Gen 3 S1 scooters across multiple battery configurations, including the S1 Pro+ and S1 Pro, as well as mass-market S1 X models. It also sells electric motorcycles under the Roadster X range with battery options ranging from 2.5 kWh to 9.1 kWh.

Ola Electric manufactures its vehicles and components at its facility in Tamil Nadu and operates a battery innovation centre in Bengaluru focused on cell development.

Stryder Cycle Launches Airborne and Arcus E-Bikes to Expand Electric Mobility Portfolio

Shruti Shiraguppi — Thu, 09 Apr 2026 12:36:46

Stryder Cycle, a Tata Group company, announced the launch of two new e-bikes—Airborne and Arcus—expanding its electric mobility portfolio. The models are aimed at making eco-friendly commuting more accessible while addressing urban congestion and sustainability needs.

Airborne is designed for adventure and all-terrain riding, featuring a power-packed motor, 10.4Ah battery with up to 35 km range, fast charging capability, extra-wide tyres, smart LCD display, and multiple ride modes.

Arcus focuses on everyday practicality, offering a removable 11.6Ah battery with up to 60 km range, a 5-inch LCD multi-colour display, integrated lighting, and a mobile charging point for convenience.

Rahul Gupta, Business Head, Stryder, said: “At Stryder, our focus is to make sustainable mobility both aspirational and practical. With Airborne and Arcus, we are introducing e-bikes that cater to evolving city lifestyles, whether it’s daily commuting, short errands, or leisure rides. Backed by the trust of the TATA Group, we remain committed to delivering innovative and reliable mobility solutions to consumers across the country.”

Stryder highlighted affordability, stylish design, and Tata Group-backed quality as key differentiators. The company continues to expand its e-bike portfolio to meet rising demand for cleaner transportation choices in India.

Ultraviolette Appoints Elektrorider as Distributor Across Six Central European Markets

Shruti Shiraguppi — Tue, 07 Apr 2026 12:49:30

Ultraviolette has appointed Elektrorider as its official importer and distributor for Hungary, Croatia, Slovakia, Romania, Slovenia, and Czech Republic, the Bengaluru-based company announced on April 7, 2026, expanding its European footprint to 19 countries.

The partnership will see Ultraviolette introduce its F77 MACH 2 and F77 SuperStreet electric motorcycles across these six markets, leveraging Elektrorider's existing retail infrastructure in electric two-wheelers in the Central and Eastern European (CEE) region.

Narayan Subramaniam, CEO & Co-founder of Ultraviolette, stated: "We are excited to partner with Elektrorider to introduce the Ultraviolette brand in Hungary and Central Europe. This alliance marks a pivotal milestone in our global expansion as Ultraviolette moves beyond India into some of the world's most discerning motorcycling markets. With a strong foothold already established across 12 European countries, Ultraviolette is poised to accelerate worldwide growth following successful launches in these demanding countries. To riders across Hungary and Central Europe, we seek to bring Aviation based design, unmatched capability and performance, along with future-forward technology that redefine the motorcycling experience with every Ultraviolette ride. Guided by this vision, we are confident that this partnership will establish a world-class Ultraviolette ecosystem, right from product experience to aftersales support. This is only the beginning, and we are excited and confident of the journey ahead."

Attila Pavuk, COO of Elektrorider, commented: "We are equally excited and proud to introduce Ultraviolette to Hungary and the Central European market and go ballistic with the brand's both visually striking and technologically cutting-edge performance motorcycles. At Elektrorider we represent a lifestyle built around performance, freedom, adventure, and reliability. With deep roots in the CEE market, we combine data-driven insight with real riding experience; we don't guess but listen and analyze. We understand this region because we live here, ride here, and build meaningful partnerships with brands that share the same high standards, such as Ultraviolette. To motorcycle enthusiasts throughout Hungary and Central Europe, this alliance merges India's high-tech offer, bold design, exceptional capability, and forward-looking technology with European riding expectations that elevate the electric experience to the next level. With this vision at the core of our partnership, this marks the start of an exciting journey, and we couldn't be more enthusiastic about what lies ahead."

Ultraviolette’s European rollout will be anchored by two complementary models that define its product strategy. The F77 MACH 2 is positioned as the performance‑oriented electric motorcycle, offering higher torque, extended riding range, and advanced battery management systems to serve riders in markets where demand for premium motorcycles is strong.

The F77 SuperStreet is positioned as a street‑focused model for broader adoption, featuring a lighter frame, optimized commuting range, and simplified controls to appeal to mainstream customers transitioning to electric two‑wheelers.

Together, these models expand Ultraviolette’s portfolio in Central and Eastern Europe, aligning with the company’s partnership with Elektrorider.

Ultraviolette was founded in 2016 and is the first Indian electric motorcycle manufacturer to obtain European certification. It currently exports to 12 countries across Europe, including Germany, France, Spain, Portugal, the UK, Belgium, Netherlands, Luxembourg, Italy, Austria, Switzerland, and Scotland. The company is backed by investors including Lingotto, TDK Ventures, Qualcomm Ventures, Zoho Corporation, TVS Motors, and Speciale Invest.

Elektrorider, founded in 2019 and operating as a division of Tiszta Energiák Ltd., has built a distribution presence in the CEE region and became a certified motorcycle training centre in 2025.

Exclusive: TVS Motor to Set Up a New Plant; Explores Multiple New Locations

Ketan Thakkar — Tue, 07 Apr 2026 12:36:07

TVS Motor Company is evaluating plans to set up a new manufacturing facility for both two and three-wheelers as it prepares to support strong growth in volumes expected over the next few years, according to sources familiar with the matter. Gujarat, Madhya Pradesh, Karnataka and Tamil Nadu are the states under consideration for the new plant.

Sources said the plans for a new plant come as the automaker is working toward a mid-term aspiration of increasing annual production to about 10 million units by the end of the decade. TVS has also been ramping up its three-wheeler production, and also has an MoU with Hyundai to manufacture last-mile mobility-focused electric three-wheelers and micro four-wheelers under the partnership.

The facility is expected to come by 2028, and the automaker might be looking at a capacity of 2-2.5 million units, which is scalable, sources said.

An email query sent to TVS Motor Company seeking comment on the proposed new plant and production plans did not elicit any response.

In 2025, TVS Motor signed an MoU with the government of Karnataka to invest Rs 2,000 crore in the state over the next five years as it plans to set up a global capability center and expand production and engineering capabilities.

Utilisation levels at its existing manufacturing facilities are running high, pushing the company to scale up its capacity, sources said. The two-and three-wheeler maker currently has three manufacturing plants in India - Hosur (Tamil Nadu), Mysore (Karnataka) and Nalagarh (Himachal Pradesh) - and one overseas facility in Karawang (Indonesia) with an estimated total capacity of 6.4 million units.

The company has steadily ramped up output from these plants over the past few years in response to rising demand in both domestic and export markets.

TVS Motor, which surpassed Yamaha in 2025 to become the world’s third-largest manufacturer by sales volume globally, currently holds a market share of close to 20% in two-wheelers sold in India. The company has been gradually strengthening its position in the domestic market, with its share rising from around 16% three years ago.

The company’s growth strategy, supported by a diversified product portfolio spanning scooters, mid-size and premium motorcycles, electric two-wheelers and international markets, has helped the automaker expand its market presence and improve scale in both domestic and international markets.

Demand trends across the industry are also influencing the company’s capacity planning. Growth in recent years has increasingly shifted toward premium motorcycles, scooters and electric two-wheelers, segments where TVS Motor is building momentum through regular product updates and capacity investments.

Exports remain another important driver for the company. TVS Motor, which also owns Norton Motorcycles, has built a strong presence in developing markets, particularly in Africa, which contributes meaningful volumes to its overall output. This growing international footprint has increased the need for additional manufacturing capacity to support both domestic and overseas demand.

Electric mobility has emerged as another major factor shaping the company’s expansion plans. TVS Motor has become the leader in India’s electric two-wheeler market, and rising consumer adoption has been pushing production volumes higher. The company’s annual output in electric two-wheelers is approaching nearly 500,000 units, reflecting steady growth in the segment.

Sources said the company is targeting to increase its production by around 15-22% in FY27, would imply around 6.8 million to 7.2 million two-wheelers and three-wheelers from an estimated production of about 5.9 million units in the financial year 2026. The planned expansion in capacity is essential to support this growth trajectory and maintain supply continuity across markets.

The production target for the financial year 2027 would position TVS Motor closer to Honda Motorcycle and Scooter India in terms of output levels and could intensify competition for the number one position in India’s two-wheeler market. The company has been steadily narrowing the gap with larger rivals over the past few years, supported by consistent growth across multiple product segments.

TVS Motor’s production rose to an estimated 5.7 million units in the financial year 2026, representing growth of about 22% compared with the previous financial year. Between April and February of the same year, the company produced 5.09 million units, up 20% from the year-ago period, indicating sustained momentum in demand and manufacturing activity.

Nearly One in Ten Two-Wheelers Sold in India Is Now Electric

Shruti Shiraguppi — Mon, 06 Apr 2026 11:10:58

India's two-wheeler market registered 19,51,006 units in March 2026, its second-highest March on record. Within that number sits a quieter data point: 9.79% of those vehicles were electric — the highest monthly EV share the segment has recorded, and a figure that now sits a fraction below the 10% mark.

To understand the significance of that number, it helps to look at where the segment was. In February 2026, 2W EV share stood at 6.57%. In March 2025, it was 8.67%. The March 2026 reading represents a jump of more than three percentage points from just one month prior, and over a full percentage point from the same month last year. For the full year FY'26, the annual average EV share in two-wheelers settled at 6.54%, up from 6.09% in FY'25 — a steady but measured annual progression. March's monthly spike suggests the annual average may understate the current run-rate.

The overall two-wheeler segment grew 28.68% year-on-year in March, driven by broad-based demand across both urban and rural markets — urban grew 28.84% and rural 28.57%, a near-identical split. But the EV share gain appears to be concentrated in urban and semi-urban geographies, where total cost of ownership has become a more prominent factor in purchase decisions. Charging access, commute patterns, and the expanding availability of models across price points have collectively made the electric option increasingly practical for a wider buyer base.

At the OEM level, the data shows notable shifts. Ather Energy sold 35,736 units in March 2026, up from 15,650 in March 2025 — more than doubling year-on-year — and its market share within the two-wheeler segment rose from 1.03% to 1.83% over the same period. Ola Electric, by contrast, sold 10,118 units in March 2026 versus 23,634 in March 2025, with its share falling from 1.56% to 0.52%. The EV sub-segment within two-wheelers is, in other words, not a uniform story — it involves OEMs on quite different trajectories. Greaves Electric and River Mobility both posted year-on-year volume increases, though from smaller bases.

The 10% threshold carries no particular mechanical significance for the market. Vehicles do not accelerate their adoption because a round number has been crossed. But thresholds like this are useful as reference points: they indicate when a technology has moved from niche to a measurable share of the mainstream, and when the question shifts from whether adoption will happen to how quickly.

For the two-wheeler segment specifically, the outstanding question is whether March's reading was amplified by month-end and year-end purchase patterns — factors that have historically produced spikes in specific segments — or whether it reflects a durable shift in the underlying mix. The full-year FY'26 average of 6.54% suggests some gap between the monthly peak and the sustained trend, but that gap has been narrowing. If April and subsequent months sustain EV share in the 7–9% range, the annual average for FY'27 could plausibly approach or exceed the level March briefly touched.

Wholesale dispatches in the two‑wheeler market stood at 25.31 lakh units in March. At current EV share levels, this implies that between 1.9 and 2.5 lakh of those dispatches were electric two‑wheelers — a monthly volume that, until recently, would have been considered ambitious as a full‑year target.

Triumph Motorcycles Launches Tracker 400 in India at ₹2,46,225

Shruti Shiraguppi — Mon, 06 Apr 2026 11:05:39

Triumph Motorcycles, in partnership with Bajaj Auto, on April 6 launched the Tracker 400 in India at ₹2,46,225 (ex-showroom Delhi) — a flat track-inspired motorcycle powered by a TR-Series 350cc engine producing 40PS at 8,750rpm, adding a sixth model to the brand's India lineup.

The Tracker 400 draws its design from oval dirt track racing. It features flat, wide handlebars, repositioned footpegs, a boxy fuel tank, seat cowl, fly screen, number board, and dual-spoke wheels shod with MRF REVZ FD1 tyres. The motorcycle is offered in three colours — Racing Yellow, Phantom Black, and Aluminium Silver Gloss.

On the hardware side, the Tracker 400 runs a dedicated chassis with 43mm upside-down big piston forks at the front offering 140mm of travel, and a rear gas monoshock RSU with 140mm travel and preload adjustment. Braking is handled by four-piston radial calipers. Electronics include switchable traction control, ABS, and a torque-assist clutch. Instrumentation consists of a single-dial analogue speedometer paired with a digital tachometer. Seat height is 805mm.

Manik Nangia, President, Probiking, Bajaj Auto, said: "The Speed 400, Scrambler 400 X, and the Thruxton have seen strong acceptance, expanding Triumph's appeal to younger riders. Building on this momentum, the Tracker 400 introduces greater choice. With its stripped-back flat track attitude, it delivers more fun, more style, and a distinctly sportier ride."

Triumph entered India in 2023 in partnership with Bajaj Auto. The brand's India range is now distributed through over 230 stores across more than 200 towns nationwide.

Triumph Motorcycles Cuts Prices by up to ₹21,500 After Crossing 1 Lakh Units in India

Shruti Shiraguppi — Mon, 06 Apr 2026 10:59:40

Triumph Motorcycles, in partnership with Bajaj Auto, on April 6 announced revised ex-showroom prices across its India range offering on-road savings of up to ₹21,500 — after the brand crossed one lakh cumulative retail units in the country, with the reduction enabled by the 18% GST applicable on its new 350cc engine lineup.

The revised pricing (ex-showroom Delhi) is as follows: Speed T4 at ₹1,95,000; Speed 400 at ₹2,31,890; Scrambler 400 at ₹2,59,241; Thruxton 400 at ₹2,65,538; and Scrambler 400 XC at ₹2,89,534.

Manik Nangia, President, Probiking, Bajaj Auto Ltd., said, "Bolstered by the massive success of our 400 range, with 1 lakh Triumphs now on Indian roads, we enter FY27 with strong momentum. The 18% GST bracket enables more competitive pricing while retaining the character and engineering excellence that define our products. We are confident that with these on-road savings, we will be able to bring many more riders into the Triumph family."

The brand currently operates through a network of over 230 stores across more than 200 towns in India. Triumph entered the Indian market in 2023 through a partnership with Bajaj Auto, targeting the mid-capacity motorcycle segment. The company has said it is targeting growth in FY27 on the back of the newly introduced 350cc range.

TVS Motors Races Ahead, Biggest Share Gainer in FY26

Shruti Shiraguppi — Mon, 06 Apr 2026 10:21:28

TVS Motor Company has emerged as FY26's biggest share gainer among India's top five two-wheeler manufacturers, climbing to 18.89 per cent retail market share from 17.49 per cent a year earlier — a 140-basis-point jump that translates into 40,46,666 units retailed, up from 33,03,633 in FY25, a 22.5 per cent growth rate that significantly outpaced the industry's 13.40 per cent.

In March 2026, TVS retailed 3,74,602 units at a 19.20 per cent share — the highest monthly reading in recent years — up from 2,76,276 units (18.22 per cent) a year earlier, a 35.6 per cent YoY surge.

The growth has been remarkably broad-based, spanning scooters, motorcycles, mopeds and electric vehicles — an unusual breadth that sets TVS apart from rivals who tend to dominate in one or two sub-segments.

The scooter portfolio has been the primary engine. The Jupiter, India's second-best-selling scooter, consistently crossed the 1-lakh-unit monthly mark in the second half of FY26, with January recording 1,29,744 units and February 1,27,089 units.

The Ntorq continued its strong run in the sporty-commuter scooter space, posting over 50 per cent YoY growth in several months through the year, while the iQube electric scooter emerged as one of TVS's fastest-growing products — February saw 38,054 units at 61 per cent YoY growth.

By February 2026, scooters accounted for 56.43 per cent of TVS's domestic volumes, underscoring a scooter-led growth strategy that has been reinforced by the Orbiter EV addition to the electric portfolio.

On the motorcycle side, the Apache range sustained double-digit growth through the year, while the Raider — TVS's entry-sport commuter — delivered consistent 25-30 per cent YoY gains. The Ronin, positioned as a modern-classic, saw explosive growth, more than doubling volumes in several months. The recently launched RTX300 adds a premium layer to the portfolio.

The XL moped, often overlooked in urban-focused analysis, remained a steady 12 per cent contributor to volumes, with YoY growth turning positive in the second half as rural demand picked up post-GST 2.0.

What's arguably most significant is TVS's three-wheeler breakout. FADA data shows TVS retailed 55,488 three-wheelers in FY26, more than double the 25,882 units sold in FY25 — a 114 per cent jump that lifted its three-wheeler market share to 4.07 per cent from 2.12 per cent. This makes TVS the fastest-growing three-wheeler OEM by share gain, and signals a serious intent to establish a presence in the commercial mobility space.

TVS's FY26 trajectory raises an interesting strategic question. The company is now clearly the number-three two-wheeler player and is widening its lead over fourth-placed Bajaj Auto (10.50 per cent share, down from 11.41 per cent). The gap to second-placed Honda (25.03 per cent) remains large, but TVS's multi-segment, multi-powertrain approach — covering ICE scooters, ICE motorcycles, electric scooters and now three-wheelers gives it an optionality that few rivals can match.

Royal Enfield Rides Past 12 Lakh, 350cc Models Lead the Charge

Shruti Shiraguppi — Mon, 06 Apr 2026 10:12:55

Royal Enfield crossed the 12-lakh annual sales milestone for the first time in FY 2025-26, dispatching 12.39 lakh units globally — a 23 per cent surge from 10.10 lakh in FY25. Domestic volumes rose 23%, while exports climbed to 1.31 lakh (up 23%). It had a 5.18% share, up sharply from 4.48% a year earlier, makin it one of FY26's biggest gainers in the two-wheeler space.

The growth story, however, is overwhelmingly a 350cc story — and one model in particular remains the fulcrum.

Classic 350

The Classic 350 continues to be Royal Enfield's single largest volume driver, accounting for approximately 40 per cent of the 250-350cc segment. In the April-February period alone, it contributed the lion's share of the 9.31 lakh units that RE's four core 350cc models sold. Monthly volumes consistently ranged between 26,000 and 35,000 units through the year, with the festive peak in October pushing it well above 40,000. The Classic's enduring appeal lies in its retro-modern aesthetic and its position as the default "first big bike" for Indian riders upgrading from 125-150cc commuters.

Bullet 350

The Bullet 350's resurgence was FY26's most dramatic model-level story within the RE portfolio. The new-generation Bullet, built on the J-platform that underpins the Classic and Meteor, saw volumes more than double year-on-year in several quarters. In Q3 alone (July-September), Bullet 350 sales surged 109 per cent YoY. By November, the Bullet was commanding a 22.73 per cent share of RE's total portfolio — an extraordinary revival for a nameplate that had seemed destined for niche status. Monthly volumes of 16,000-25,000 units made it RE's consistent second-best seller.

Hunter 350

The Hunter 350, RE's entry-point model positioned at a lower price than the Classic, delivered consistent 30-40 per cent YoY growth through the year. January 2026 saw it clock 18,109 units (a refreshed version launched that month helped), and February 2026 brought similar volumes. The Hunter's role is strategic: it's the model that brings younger, first-time buyers into the Royal Enfield fold, many of whom will trade up to a Classic or Meteor within 3-5 years.

Meteor 350

The Meteor 350, RE's cruiser offering, had a mixed year — strong YoY growth in several months (40 per cent-plus in Q3), but also the most volatile MoM swings. Its share of RE volumes remained in the 10-12 per cent range, suggesting a stable but bounded niche within the portfolio.

Together, these four 350cc models accounted for 92 per cent of RE's volumes in the April-February period and gave the company a commanding 94 per cent share of the 250-350cc motorcycle segment, which itself grew 27 per cent YoY to 9.91 lakh units.

The 450 Platform

The bigger strategic question for Royal Enfield lies in its 450cc platform, which encompasses the Himalayan 450 adventure tourer and the Guerrilla 450 roadster. Combined 450cc sales stood at 32,994 units in the April-February period — actually down 7 per cent YoY.

The Guerrilla, launched with considerable fanfare, struggled to sustain initial momentum: after a promising start, monthly volumes dipped to 600-900 units through much of the year. The Himalayan 450 fared better internationally — clocking over 38,000 export units globally with 53 per cent growth — but domestic volumes declined over 40 per cent in several months.

The 650cc twins (Interceptor and Continental GT) continued to post healthy growth — 48 per cent YoY in Q3 — but remain a niche play at around 3,000 units monthly. The Super Meteor 650 and Shotgun 650 contributed modest incremental volumes.

The company has a near-monopoly in the mid-size motorcycle segment, a brand with pricing power, and a manufacturing expansion underway at Cheyyar (from 14.6 lakh to 20 lakh capacity at an investment of Rs 958 crore).

Weekly News Wrap: Record FY26 Sales Set Tone, JLR Price Cut, Toyota, VinFast Product Plans, TVS Production

Kiran Murali — Sun, 05 Apr 2026 19:42:08

The financial year 2026 sales performance dominated the news flow this week, highlighting shifting competitive positions across segments. The automobile industry recorded its strongest-ever performance, supported by GST cuts. In the domestic passenger vehicle market, dispatches are estimated to have grown around 8%, supported by strong demand in the second half of the year.

Hyundai Motor India slipped to fourth place after being overtaken by Mahindra and Tata Motors. In two-wheelers, Hero MotoCorp maintained its leadership in domestic sales and widened the gap with Honda. At the same time, electrification trends remained strong, with electric two-wheeler registrations rising 22% to 1.4 million units and electric car sales jumping 84%, reflecting steady growth in adoption despite infrastructure and pricing challenges.

The week also saw a series of exclusive news breaks reported by Autocar Professional - from Toyota’s future growth strategy and product plans and JLR’s move to cut prices of select Range Rover models under the India-UK FTA to VinFast’s entry roadmap for India’s electric two-wheeler market, and TVS Motor’s production target of up to 7.2 million units in the financial year 2027. In other developments, Maruti Suzuki flagged rising cost pressures despite operations remaining normal amid the West Asia conflict.

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Hero Motocorp Maintains Leadership in FY26 Domestic 2W Sales, Widens Gap With Honda

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Suzuki’s EV Strategy to Expand Beyond e‑Access, Says President Kenichi Umeda

Ketan Thakkar — Fri, 03 Apr 2026 19:11:08

Suzuki Motorcycle India is preparing to expand its electric vehicle play beyond the recently introduced e-Access scooter. The Japanese automaker's strategy wis to focus on more accessible price segments and a broader product portfolio for EVs while pushing multiple powertrain technologies.

Positioning the e-Access as a starting point on the premium side of the market rather than a full-scale entry, Suzuki Motorcyle India President and MD Kenichi Umeda indicated that their EV journey in India will be gradual, calibrated and closely aligned with how the market evolves.

Suzuki was a late entrant among the traditional scooter makers in India to introduce an electric vehicle. The automaker started selling its first electric scooter - e-Access - this year and has dispatched 1,500 units till March 31.

The models comes at a starting ex-showroom price of around Rs 1.9 lakh, while most of the other major traditional OEMs are scaling volumes with their sub-Rs 1 lakh product. “We have just started… step by step, we are increasing,” Umeda said. He noted that the current focus is on building customer familiarity, dealer capability and product credibility.

According to him, the next phase phase on EV expansion will be into the mainstream segment, with a wider mix of products and use cases. “We have to think about more mainstream…more wider model lineup also,” he said.

Industry sources say that Suzuki is working towards crossing 25,000 EV units in FY27, but the company did not commit any volume targets.

Suzuki’ management said they are looking at a broader EV lineup that could span multiple price points and form factors. This can include extensions of existing brands and new concepts tailored to Indian usage conditions.

The company is taking a measured approach, prioritising battery durability, lifecycle value and customer confidence over aggressive scale. Officials boast that its EV, that comes with LFP battery, is positioned on longevity and reliability rather than outright price competitiveness.

Suzuki’s cautious stance, similar to its Japanese couterpart Honda, reflects the current state of the EV market, particularly in the premium scooter segment where e-Access sits. “The market itself is still not so big…this is the first step,” Umeda said when asked about its modest volumes.

For the industry, he expects EV penetration in the two-wheeler space to settle in the 15–20% range over time. He did not clarify whether this applies to Suzuki’s own mix or the industry at large.

Multi-fuel Play

Importantly, Suzuki is not viewing electrification in isolation. The company continues to pursue a multi-pathway strategy, investing simultaneously in cleaner internal combustion engines and alternative fuels. “Not only EV…flex fuel, more efficient engine…everything we are studying,” Umeda said.

He confirmed that Suzuki is actively working on flex-fuel and CNG models, though timelines remain fluid. “Study is study,” he said. Customer acceptance and market readiness will ultimately determine the pace of introduction, he added.

Suzuki’s competitor TVS is working on a CNG scooter while Bajaj Auto has already introduced a CNG motorcycle.

Localisation

A key pillar of Suzuki India’s strategy, according to Umeda, is a sharper push on localisation, both on the supply chain and engineering front. He noted that the company is increasingly focusing on local supplier development and deeper value addition within India, even as it gradually expands its engineering capabilities beyond manufacturing.

The next phase will see a stronger emphasis on “make in India” backed by local R&D and product development, reducing dependence on Japan and improving cost competitiveness across powertrains, including EVs and alternative fuels.

Suzuki’s localisation drive is expected to play a critical role in scaling volumes, tailoring products more closely to Indian conditions, and supporting its longer-term ambition of positioning India as a global hub. With the country already contributing over half of Suzuki’s global volumes, the company is stepping up localisation and engineering capabilities, which over time could underpin both its EV and alternative fuel strategies.