Bajaj-KTM reveal plans to launch Husqvarna brand globally

Bajaj Auto and KTM have released a joint statement announcing their plans to launch the Husqvarna brand of motorcycles globally in 2018. This announcement has been made on the 10th anniversary of Bajaj and KTM's strategic partnership.

Bajaj Auto had bought a stake in KTM in 2007 and the two companies have since being sharing technology and sales network in various markets. Meanwhile, KTM secured a long-term license agreement to sell Husqvarna motorcycles in 2013. The Austrian bike maker has managed to achieve Husqvarna's best ever sales figure of over 30,000 units in the year 2016. Now, it is hoping to boost this figure by expanding the reach of Husqvarna motorcycles across the globe.

KTM will start producing three models in the Husqvarna range at its factory in Mattighofen, Austria. These models, which include the Vitpilen 401, the Svartpilen 401 and the Vitpilen 701, will then go on sale in various markets in early 2018. Sometime later next year, global production of the Vitpilen 401 and Svartpilen 401 will be transferred to the Bajaj factory in Chakan, near Pune, Maharashtra.

Through this increased partnership, Bajaj is aiming to boost production at its Chakan manufacturing facility. This particular plant is expected to cross the 1,00,000 unit mark in the joint products volume in 2017. The company is now aiming to double this figure in the next few years.