Pune-headquartered two-wheeler and three-wheeler major Bajaj Auto has announced a strategic move to revive and reshape the future of KTM, by acquiring a controlling stake in the Austrian motorcycle manufacturer, subject to regulatory approvals. This marks a significant shift from Bajaj’s previous role as a minority investor to a leading force in KTM’s global operations.

The move comes amid KTM’s ongoing debt restructuring process, triggered by severe liquidity issues that hampered its day-to-day operations. Through its Dutch subsidiary, Bajaj Auto International Holdings (BAIHBV), Bajaj has arranged a debt funding package of EUR 800 million to support KTM’s recovery and growth. Of this, EUR 200 million has already been infused, with the remaining EUR 600 million being deployed now.

For the unversed, KTM, along with its subsidiaries, entered court-supervised restructuring in November 2024 after failing to manage its rising debt. A plan approved by creditors in February 2025 mandates a 30 percent payout of claims by 23 May 2025. If this payment is not made on time, KTM could be pushed into insolvency.

The funds raised by Bajaj will cover these creditor payments and revive operations. Once payments are confirmed by the Austrian court, the restructuring process is expected to conclude by mid-June 2025.

Path to Ownership

Bajaj currently holds an indirect 37.5 percent stake in Pierer Mobility (PMAG), the parent company of KTM. The proposed deal involves Bajaj acquiring full control of Pierer Bajaj (PBAG), which holds a majority in PMAG. This change in ownership structure will proceed once necessary approvals are obtained from Austrian regulatory bodies.

In a related transaction, Bajaj has also taken over a EUR 80 million loan agreement originally signed by a Pierer group company to prevent complications that might jeopardise the restructuring.

• The EUR 800 million debt package is structured in two parts:
• EUR 200 million: Already disbursed in four tranches during FY2024 and early 2025.
• EUR 600 million: Now being deployed – includes a EUR 450 million secured loan to KTM AG and EUR 150 million in convertible bonds routed through PBAG to support working capital and creditor payments.

These funds were raised via bank loans by BAIHBV and internal contributions from Bajaj Auto.

With the immediate goal of concluding the restructuring process and restarting production, Bajaj is preparing for a broader transformation of KTM’s operations. Key upcoming steps include:

• Revamping KTM’s governance and reconstituting its board.
• Launching a turnaround strategy to restore business momentum.
• Expanding the existing India-based joint development and manufacturing program.
• Exploring strategic partnerships for long-term growth.

Bajaj’s expanded role in KTM is expected to drive global expansion, elevate the brand’s premium image and boost innovation in high-performance motorcycle technologies.

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Bajaj Auto has announced an update to its Pulsar NS125 ABS variant, enhancing the position of the 125cc motorcycle. The latest upgrade introduces three ABS ride modes – Road, Rain and Off-Road – along with a new Pearl Metallic White colour option.

The new ABS ride modes allow riders to customise ABS intrusion for different environments, ensuring stability and adaptability without compromising the motorcycle's power and performance.

The upgraded Pulsar NS125 ABS is now available at Bajaj Auto dealerships across India. The price remains unchanged at INR 98,400 (ex-showroom Delhi).

The Pulsar NS125 maintains its 'Naked Sports' look, featuring a perimeter frame for rigidity and balance, a muscular tank and a streetfighter stance. The company states that the upgrades are designed to democratise sports motorcycling by offering safety features previously reserved for higher-end segments.

Sarang Kanade, President, Motorcycle Business Unit, Bajaj Auto, said, “The Pulsar brand has always embodied the spirit of power and performance for India’s youth. The addition of ABS ride modes and the new Pearl Metallic White colour in the Pulsar NS125, we are making advanced riding technologies more accessible while enhancing the thrill of performance biking. The NS series continues to define the Naked Sports category with its segment-leading chassis, stance and riding dynamics – staying true to Pulsar’s legacy of being ‘Definitely Daring’. This update strengthens our commitment to deliver thrilling, high-performance experiences to riders across the country.”

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Steelbird Hi-Tech India, the helmet manufacturer, has unveiled the SBH-32 Aeronautics Bluetooth smart helmet at INR 4,399.

The SBH-32 Aeronautics features Bluetooth 5.2 technology, offering up to 48 hours of talk time and 110 hours of standby. The helmet is Dual-certified, meeting both DOT FMVSS No. 218 and BIS IS 4151:2015 standards.

The helmet is constructed with a PC-ABS blend shell for impact protection. The structure incorporates air vents for airflow, while a wind deflector, vortex generators and rear spoiler reduce air drag and turbulence. The visor is Pinlock-ready, coated and resistant. Reflective elements on the back of the neck pad enhance visibility during night rides.

The interior padding is removable and washable, featuring breathability and sweat-absorption properties. It includes a cheek pad EPS and a Double D-Ring fastener. It is available in 580 mm, 600 mm and 620 mm sizes.

Rajeev Kapur, Managing Director, Steelbird Hi-Tech India, said, “This Diwali, we’re lighting up the roads with innovation. The SBH-32 Aeronautics is not just a helmet – it’s a revolution in smart riding. By integrating advanced Bluetooth 5.2 connectivity with global safety certifications, we aim to empower riders with the freedom to stay connected without compromising on protection. Steelbird’s mission has always been to bring global innovation to Indian roads, and this helmet is a reflection of our promise to blend technology, safety, and style for the new generation of riders.”

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Bengaluru-headquartered electric vehicle maker Ultraviolette has further expanded its global presence with entering the Spain and Portugal markets.

By entering Spain and Portugal, Ultraviolette is positioning itself at the heart of Europe's EV landscape, amplifying its momentum as a trailblazer in mobility. The expansion brings to market vehicles engineered with innovations, safety standards, design and technology honed through years of research and development.

Rhino Electric Motor, the importer and partner, will bring the F77 MACH 2 and F77 SuperStreet to the Peninsula.

The F77 motorcycles redefine performance, accelerating from zero to 60 kmph in just 2.8 seconds. It come with a 10.3 kWh battery pack and delivers a power output of 30 kW, producing 100 Nm of torque. This enables acceleration, handling, and a speed of 155 kmph.

The motorcycles are equipped with technology, including the company's artificial intelligence system, Violette A.I. and switchable Dual-Channel ABS developed by Bosch. Features such as 10 levels of Regenerative Braking, 4 levels of Traction Control and Dynamic Stability Control ensure a smooth riding experience.

Narayan Subramaniam, CEO & Co-Founder, Ultraviolette Automotive, said, "The response from our first customers across France, Germany, the Netherlands, and other European markets has been absolutely phenomenal. Building on that momentum, we are thrilled to announce the launch of the Ultraviolette F77 performance electric motorcycles in Spain and Portugal - both markets that have deep rooted motorcycling culture and are rapidly evolving into hubs for sustainable innovation and EV adoption. This expansion, coming just months after our debut in Paris, is a powerful validation of global resonance with Ultraviolette's motorcycles and technology. It underscores our commitment to bringing Indian engineering excellence to the world, backed by years of rigorous R&D, innovation in performance and a deep focus on rider safety. With the F77, we are setting a new global benchmark for what Indian automotive technology can achieve."

Jorge Bialade, Spokesperson for Rhino Electric Motors, said, "Ultraviolette is a game-changer for the Iberian electric motorcycle market. It brings together technology, design, and emotion, thus proving that sustainable mobility can also be thrilling. That's the real contribution of this brand.”

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Hero MotoCorp, the world's largest manufacturer of motorcycles and scooters, has announced its official entry into the Republic of Spain in partnership with Noria Motos, part of the ONEX Group and Euro 5+ Models.

With this, the company now has a presence in 50 countries globally, serving a customer base of over 125 million customers.

Sanjay Bhan, Executive Vice-President, Hero MotoCorp, said, "Hero MotoCorp’s entry into Spain marks a defining milestone in our global expansion journey. Following our foray into Italy, our launch in Spain further strengthens our footprint across Europe – one of the world’s most dynamic two-wheeler markets in the world. With presence now spanning 50 international markets across five continents, we reaffirm our commitment to redefining the future of mobility through next-gen mobility solutions that deliver Limitless Freedom and Limitless Adventure to riders everywhere.”

As per the understanding, the ONEX Group, through Noria Motos, will make the products available to Spanish customers with more than 30 official sales and service outlets in major cities across Spain. The idea is to expand the same to more than 50 locations by 2026, and gradually having 100 percent of its network coverage by 2028.

Dawinder Wahla Singh, Business Head, Noria Motos, said, “We are proud to partner with Hero MotoCorp as they make their debut in the Spanish market. Both Hero MotoCorp and the ONEX Group share a deep commitment to putting customers first and ensuring a seamless ownership experience, supported by a robust sales and service network across the country. The Hunk 440 and Xpulse 200 offer a unique combination of technology and value that will resonate deeply with Spanish consumers.”

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