Bajaj Auto is currently looking at platforms for its first high-end electric motorcycle with its Austrian premium bike partner KTM. In response to a question during the post-Q1 earnings media briefing, Bajaj Auto Executive Director Rakesh Sharma stated, “We are also in discussion with KTM (and) there is a joint work going on where we are looking at platforms for high-end electric motorcycles.”
The company also stated that it is taking a measured and balanced approach to expanding the geographical reach of its Chetak e-scooter. Sharma stated that the plan is “certainly on our radar screen, and it will be announced at the right time.”
During the company’s quarterly earnings call, this significant development was discussed. He used the words “high-end” electric motorcycles, which leads us to believe that the action will include a bike with performance comparable to the 390 range.
The Pune-based manufacturer will reveal more information about this development when the time comes. However, we believe this bike is still in its early stages of development. When it comes to electric motorcycles, the majority of global motorcycle companies are taking their time. However, in the coming years, they will have a solid electric bike for the global market.
On the Chetak electric scooter, he stated that volumes are expected to be higher than in Q1, which logged 6,200 units compared to 300 units in the previous fiscal’s March quarter. “Hopefully it will be double or near double of Q1, depending upon the supply chain visibility,” stated Sharma. Unlike the existing business, they are taking great care in calibrating the expansion of their geographical footprint, he explained.
The e-Chetak has currently received over 16,000 bookings. It is currently available in 27 cities, with plans to expand to 100 cities. He stated that the holiday season was satisfactory last year and that it is expected to be adequate this year unless inflation enters the picture.
