The word- ‘milestone’ was repeated numerous times by the company’s chairman in its recent virtual press conference. Often with gleaming pride in his eyes- the pride of a dutiful son, a leading corporate visionary, and a hardworking man bearing the fruits of his labour.

Standing tall at Hero’s manufacturing facility in Gurugram, the CEO reflected on the sombre year that went by and is almost certain that the current year will shine a better light on us all. Joined shortly by the movie star Sharukh Khan, he reflected on various hardships, achievements, and yet again- ‘milestones’.

When asked by the keenly interested actor, on how the mobility company set out with its journey, the Managing Director said, “It was on January 19th, 1984, exactly 37 years ago that this company was incorporated. Fuelled by the focus on the future and reaching new milestones, a dream was set in motion, with a vision for the company it wanted to be.” In his air of passionate pleasantry, the captain of Hero said they had little to no idea about how big his company would turn out. “My beloved father Dr Brijmohan Lall Munjal put the building blocks in place for an ecosystem that has provided mobility to millions globally,” he added.

The head of the company explained that the monumental milestone of producing their one-millionth product, which at a time, seemed like a distant dream. Still grasping at the amazing feat, he pointed out that, “This milestone signifies much more than just a sales record; it is the success of our iconic brand, it is the trust our customers have placed in us, in our bikes and scooters. It is the hard work of the employees, all our heroes, and along with all of this- it is the success of this nation, our India.”

Speaking on the company founder, he said, his father would have been humbled and proud on seeing how far their company has come since its initial days.

In the time that ensued, three of Hero’s state-of-the-art manufacturing facilities were pitted against each other, in a race against time to deliver its 100-millionth motorcycle. The Gurugram plant, the place of the press conference, faced off, rather dramatically-against the Neemrana plant in Rajasthan and Hero’s largest facility in Haridwar.

Speaking on the pandemic and how it affected his company, Munjal said, “It would have been very easy to relax, defer all targets and wait for life to get back to normal. At Hero, our entire ecosystem came together and ensured we stayed on course to meet our new, enhanced goals and create hope for the economy.” This productivity evidently shows in their most recent achievement. He further explained that this very work ethic has kept the two-wheeler company at the top of the sales charts for over two decades. With 50 million products in 2013, it has taken the company just seven years to double that number to 100 million.

Munjal, in a considerate tone, with arms open, said, “Sustainability is very close to my heart and one of the key pillars of our operation- we ensure we continuously focus in providing sustainable growth to the society we operate in and also to all our stakeholders. Our manufacturing facilities across the globe are aptly called garden factories for their sustainability and green initiatives.” He further highlighted the range of diversity seen in their facilities across the globe. With employees from over ten different nationalities and a strong backbone in the female workforce, he said his company is one that embraces diversity.

The leader of the firm hints at, possibly- an electric commuter, when he said. “We are keenly aware of the future mobility requirements as well, keeping an eye for changing trends and keeping pace with our dynamic world, we are simultaneously ensuring future-readiness by working on alternate mobility solutions as well.”

Amidst all conversation, the 100-millionth motorcycle was finally off the assembly line in the Haridwar plant. The Xtreme 160R, Hero’s latest contribution to the commuter segment was, incidentally- the motorcycle to make headlines.

Concluding this event, Munjal pondered on the times to come. “We are going to continue to ride our growth journey. In keeping with our Vision to ‘Be the Future of Mobility,’ we will be launching a host of new motorcycles & scooters over the next five years, in addition to expanding our global footprint. We will also continue to invest in R&D and focus on new mobility solutions.” he added. (MT)

TVS Motor Company, a leading manufacturer of two-wheelers and three-wheelers, has introduced the updated TVS Apache RR310, its flagship offering in the premium sports motorcycle category.

The 2025 edition is now compliant to the OBD-2B norms with prices starting at INR 277,999 (ex-showroom India). As part of 20th anniversary commemoration of the TVS Apache series, the TVS Apache RR 310 now gets segment-first Sequential TSL and Cornering Drag Torque Control (RT-DSC). It also features Launch Control (RT-DSC), Gen-2 Race Computer with Multi Language Support and 8 Spoke Alloy Wheels.

Available in two variants with three BTO customisation options, the Apache RR 310 continues to build upon TVS Racing’s pedigree.

The Apache RR 310 is powered by a refined reverse-inclined DOHC engine, which produces 38 PS at 9,800 rpm and a peak torque of 29 Nm at 7,900 rpm.

Vimal Sumbly, Head Business – Premium, TVS Motor Company, said, "Since its debut in 2017, the TVS Apache RR 310 has emerged as a formidable force in the super-premium sport motorcycle segment, redefining performance benchmarks through its race-bred DNA. Rooted in over 43 years of TVS Racing heritage, it embodies our relentless pursuit of innovation and excellence. The latest evolution of the RR 310 integrates cutting-edge technologies such as segment-first: sequential turn signal lamps (TSL), Launch Control and Drag Torque Control – reinforcing our leadership in rider-focused advancements. The new BTO Race Replica colourway pays tribute to our record-breaking TVS Asia One Make Championship legacy. With this latest avatar, the Apache RR 310 not only pushes the boundaries of track performance but also elevates everyday rideability – delivering a thrilling yet refined experience that appeals to both spirited racers and discerning enthusiasts.”

Bengaluru-headquartered electric vehicle company Ultraviolette Automotive (Ultraviolette) has announced a latest strategic alliance with MotoMondo, as its official importer and distributor for the United Kingdom and the Benelux region, which includes Belgium, the Netherlands and Luxembourg.

This announcement is part of Ultravilotte’s ambition to expand its presence in the global market, especially the European region. As part of the understanding, the company will introduce the F77 MACH 2 Recon in the region for an introductory price of GBP 8,499 till 30 June 2025, post which the price will increase to GBP 9,399.

Narayan Subramaniam, CEO & Co-Founder, Ultraviolette, said“We are thrilled to partner with MotoMondo to bring the Ultraviolette experience to the United Kingdom and Benelux region. This partnership represents a significant milestone in our global journey as we expand the Ultraviolette brand beyond India into some of the world's most mature and discerning motorcycling markets. MotoMondo’s proven expertise in establishing and growing premium motorcycle brands across Europe makes them the perfect partner to represent Ultraviolette in these key regions. Their deep understanding of the market, combined with a passion for innovation and motorcycling culture, ensures that the Ultraviolette ecosystem-from product experience to aftersales support, will be world-class from day one. This is just the beginning, and we’re incredibly excited about the road ahead.”

Jan Ykema, Managing Director, MotoMondo, added, “We are proud to bring Ultraviolette, the most advanced electric motorcycle brand of the world, to the United Kingdom and Benelux region. Their technology is unprecedented, and we have only just seen the beginning! Ultraviolette will disrupt the current motorcycle market by offering a real alternative for all combustion engines.”

Honda Motorcycle & Scooter India (HMSI), one of the country's leading two-wheeler manufacturers, has launched the OBD2B-compliant Dio 125 scooter at INR 96,749 (ex-showroom Pune).

The new Dio 125 gets refreshed colour scheme and graphics, 4.2-inch TFT display with mileage indicator, trip meter, eco indicator and range (distance to empty). Furthermore, it is compatible with Honda RoadSync app for providing navigation and call/message alerts, Smart key and a USB Type-C charging port.

Mechanically, the Dio 125 remains unchanged and continues to be powered by a 123.92cc, single-cylinder PGM-Fi engine, which produces 6.11 kW of power and 10.5 Nm of torque.

It will be available in two variants, DLX and H-Smart, with five colour options on sale.

Tsutsumu Otani, Managing Director, President & CEO, Honda Motorcycle & Scooter India, said, “For over 21 years, the Dio has been an iconic name in the Indian market, standing as a symbol of style, performance, and trust. It has consistently been the first choice for customers looking for a trendy and reliable moto-scooter. With the launch of the new OBD2B Dio 125, we are excited to take forward its iconic legacy, keeping the core concept of moto-scooter intact, with added value and excitement for our customers.”

Yogesh Mathur, Director, Sales & Marketing, Honda Motorcycle & Scooter India, said, “We are ecstatic to introduce the new OBD2B version of Dio 125 – a scooter that has resonated with young India for years. With its refreshed graphics, advanced TFT display, and enhanced connectivity features, the new Dio 125 is designed to meet the evolving aspirations of today’s customers. True to its tagline, ‘Dio Wanna Have Fun?’, this moto scooter has always been a popular choice among India's younger generation, and this update will further strengthen its position in the segment.”

Suzuki Motorcycle India (SMIPL), the two-wheeler subsidiary of Suzuki Motor Corporation, Japan has partnered Flipkart to introduce digital buying experience for its customers.

From 15 April 2025, potential customers in eight Indian states – Karnataka, Tamil Nadu, Gujarat, Maharashtra, Andhra Pradesh, Odisha, Meghalaya and Mizoram will be able to book Suzuki scooters and motorcycles on Flipkart. To begin with customers will have options to purchase the Avenis scooter and GIXXER, GIXXER SF, GIXXER 250, GIXXER SF 250 and V-Strom SX motorcycles online.

Deepak Mutreja, Vice-President, Sales & Marketing, Suzuki Motorcycle India, said, “As more customers now prefer digital platforms for their purchases, we are committed to meeting them where they are. By associating with Flipkart, we are leveraging the growing digital ecosystem to offer customers a convenient and trusted platform to explore and buy Suzuki two-wheelers. We believe this move will further strengthen our reach and customer engagement in the Indian market.”

Sujith S Agashe, Senior Director, Electronics at Flipkart, said, “At Flipkart, we are constantly working to enhance our customer journey offering greater convenience and choice, backed by Flipkart’s trusted digital ecosystem. Our partnership with Suzuki Motorcycle India is a testament to this commitment, as we enable customers across the country to explore and book premium two-wheelers from the comfort of their homes. We are excited to bring greater convenience and choice to today’s digitally savvy consumers.”