If the latest reports are to be believed then Polaris, a US based all-terrain vehicle (ATV) manufacturer and parent company of Indian Motorcycles, may commence local assembly of its luxury cruiser brand in the sub-continent. Speaking about the company’s future plans in the country, Pankaj Dubey, Managing Director of Polaris India said that the ATV manufacturer plans to start CKD and local assembly of the luxury cruiser motorcycles but not before the next three to five years.
Local assembly will help Polaris owner Indian Motorcycles to compete against the relatively competitive prices of its prime rival, Harley-Davidson. The company is also considering a sub Rs 10 lakh motorcycle which would compete against the Harley-Davidson Street 750.
Dubey said, “We hope to start CKD and local assembly in the next three-to five years. If things move in the right direction, then we may advance our plans. We are currently studying the market and our competition.”
Polaris has postponed its plans to introduce electric vehicles sighting cost concerns. “Our study showed huge demand for electric vehicles but when we considered the cost of manufacturing, it was very high since we don’t have much of a localisation option,” Dubey added.
Currently, Polaris aims at increasing its network in the country from the existing two, to about six outlets. Indian Motorcycles currently operate in Delhi and Bengaluru. The luxury two-wheeler manufacturer plans to extend its reach in India with new showrooms in Hyderabad, Ahmedabad, Chennai and Mumbai.
Source: ET Auto