Bajaj Auto has charted out an aggressive course it will follow until December 2017. Mr. Rajiv Bajaj, MD, Bajaj Auto, has said that the company will launch new products across the product line by December 2017. The manufacturer has plans to launch a new product each under the umbrella of all its sub brands – CT, Platina, Discover, V , Avenger, Pulsar, and the Bajaj Dominar. The Pulsar lineup has already witnessed the addition of the NS160, while the carbeuretted NS200 could be updated with an FI system feeding its motor.
The mention of the Bajaj Dominar 400 in this list comes as a surprise though, since the most powerful motorcycle in their stable was launched only recently and has been updated with a new Matte Black colour just a couple weeks ago. There have been rumours in the past about Bajaj Auto working on a Scrambler styled model based on the Dominar. However, since Mr. Bajaj did not reveal any model specific details, it could well be another new paint scheme too.
The Bajaj Avenger 220 is also a part of the new launch schedule and we believe it could get a new limited edition paint scheme, maybe some cosmetic updates, or maybe a bigger engine. Bajaj Auto witnessed a big slide in sales in the last quarter. This, even when most of their lineup was BSIV compliant before the enforcement date. The clearance of discounted BS III vehicles by competitors and delay in certain operational decisions due to the implementation of GST, reduced their market share from 20% to 15%.
Things are getting back on track for the bike maker though. At its Annual General Meeting, Bajaj told shareholders on Thursday that its current export markets are recovering and the company is entering new large markets which will offer incremental volumes. The company will aim for a 26% share in the fiscal year starting April 2018.
Source: ET