Suzuki Motor Corporation’s global R&D center, headquartered in Hamamatsu, Japan is abuzz with a dedicated team of designers who are working on a new lineup of motorcycles and scooters specifically for the Indian market. In fact, their handiwork can already be sampled in the form of the recently launched Gixxer 150 and the Let’s scooter.
“Suzuki Motorcycle India is now firmly on way to upgrading the product portfolio. We have launched four products this year, two of which are designed from scratch at the R&D centre in Hamamatsu. Several other products are being designed and will join the portfolio in future,” Suzuki Motorcycle India executive vice-president Atul Gupta said.
At the moment, Suzuki Motorcycle India has a limited portfolio of three bikes and three scooters. While all the segments are covered, the lineup lacks variety and oomph. “We are conscious of the need to also broaden our portfolio. The introductions will happen at a faster pace than before,” said Gupta.
Suzuki Motorcycle India national head (marketing) Anu Anamika says Suzuki Motorcycle India is riding high on confidence from the the Let’s success and the initial buzz surrounding the Gixxer launch. “Despite Suzuki being such a strong two-wheeler brand globally, we did not get it right with the initial set of products. Perhaps, the market expectation was higher. We may also have had great products but a poor distribution channel. Now, we are focusing on both and look to get it right,” she said.
Suzuki India is also rather bullish over the new Gixxer. “Gixxer will be Suzuki’s flagship model for Indian riders and will lead the drive to gain market-share in the bike segment,” said Suzuki Motorcycle India vice-president (strategic planning) Kenji Hirozawa.
“Over the next two years, we expect the marketshare of Suzuki scooters to increase from 11% to 20% and bikes to increase from 1% to 5%,” the vice-president added.
Source: Times of India