KTM is planning to launch the Husqvarna brand in India in 2020. Select models from the company’s portfolio, which are based on KTM Duke platforms, will be manufactured at Bajaj’s plant in Chakan for sale in India as well as global markets.
KTM had acquired Husqvarna from BMW Motorrad in early 2013. Before KTM took over the reins, Husqvarna moved around 11,000 motorcycles every year. Within a span of five years, the company now aims to sell over 1 lakh motorcycles annually. Needless to say, such an ambitious target warrants for rejig of portfolio. And that is where KTM’s single-cylinder Duke platforms come into picture.
While Husqvarna’s focus was completely in the dirt bike arena till recently, the company has been developing premium bikes with some help from KTM. Earlier this month, Husqvarna unveiled the Vitpilen and Svartpilen street bikes at the EICMA Show in Italy, based on the 390 Duke and the 690 Duke platforms. These motorcycles will go on sale internationally in the next few months, and in India by 2020.
KTM currently manufactures its range at Bajaj’s facility in Chakan. While the facility currently has an annual capacity of 1 lakh units, the company will be doubling the capacity by the end of 2019 to make room for Husqvarna motorcycles. The facility will not only cater to India but several international markets too. The Husqvarna bikes are expected to be positioned above their equivalent Duke models as premium offerings.
