Bajaj to launch 4 new 125cc bikes

Bajaj Auto Ltd, India's second-biggest motorcycle maker, said it would launch four new 125 cc bikes in the fiscal year starting April, as it seeks to maintain profitability in a tough market.

Bajaj, which trails the leader Hero Honda, said 125cc bikes had grown to account for 36% of the market by sales, and had a higher share of its profitability.

"In view of this unmistakable consumer trend in favor of 125cc motorcycles Bajaj has planned to launch four new 125cc motorcycles in FY2008/09," Managing Director Rajiv Bajaj said in a statement.

"In an economy that is currently inflationary and in a market that is expected to continue to be generally difficult, Bajaj believes its strategy will continue to provide for stable profitability," Bajaj said.

Read More

MV Agusta Bestiale goes production

The MV Agusta Bestiale concept motorcycle attracted lots of attention when it was unveiled at last year's Paris Show, and now finally it has been confirmed this radical conversion is to go into production as a conversion kit.The designer of the striking MV Agusta Bestiale prototype has exclusively confirmed to MCN that the concept will go into production. A kit will be offered to convert existing MVs.

Read More

INDIAN AUTOMOBILE component manufacturers and tyre makers are planning to venture into uncharted territory of aircraft components production. Indian-based MRF Tyres, Minda NTS and Sundram Fasteners are moving ahead with plans to supply components to aircraft manufacturers.

Recently, American aircraft manufacturer Boeing, signed an agreement with Tata Automobile Limited (TAL) Manufacturing Solutions, a wholly-owned subsidiary of Tata Motors. The Indian company would manufacture structural components for Boeing’s 787, Dreamliner airplane programme.

According to Ian Thomas, president of Boeing India, the company is planning for partnerships with Indian companies for different aircraft components. India’s leading tyre manufacturers MRF, has taken an initiative in this regard. The company is also making tyres for helicopters fore defence services.

Another company that is expected to provide components for the aircrafts is lighting manufacturer Lummux Industries, which is conducting a study on the market condition for aircraft lighting. This industry is looking for technology tie-ups with established players.

Indian companies have larger scopes in aerospace, especially in manufacturing mechanical, electrical, electronics and composites. There are also vast opportunities for design services businesses, as well.

Industry experts said,” gross profit margins in auto ancillaries are 10 to 12 per cent, but for the aviation space they are far higher.”

Source: Merinews

Read More