Suzuki Motorcycle to launch new models by end 2008

26 September, 2007

Before the end of 2008, at least three new models will roll out of the Suzuki Motorcycle India stables. According to industry reports, the new models will cater to the 125cc plus segment in the scooter and motorcycle range.

The company meanwhile, made its first offering in the scooter segment in September 2007. The model, christened Access 125, is a 125cc gearless scooter that the company launched earlier in metropolitan cities like Delhi and now in Mumbai. However, the price is yet to be announced owing to delay in delivery of a critical component on time by an ancillary company.

The issue is expected to be resolved by the end of September 2007, after which dealerships would get their first vehicles for sale, a report pointed out.
The company intends selling 5,000 units on a monthly basis. To meet customer demand, Suzuki Motorcycle India has planned to double its existing chain of 145 nationwide dealerships by end of 2008.

The company is also mulling over the possibility of introducing high-end motorcycles to cater to the racing enthusiast.

The company is also going in for major expansion seeing a demand for its vehicles. In order to meet prospective demand for the new model offering, Suzuki Motorcycle, which had earlier invested Rs 350 crore in product development and plant set-up, will now invest Rs 150 crore further for product development and expansion.

The Suzuki Motorcycle India plant has a total area of 37 acres and is equipped to manufacture 170,000 units on an annual basis. The company has commenced exports to Nepal, but its major plan is to become an export hub for countries such as South Africa and Latin America in the near future.