Embodying Aprilia’s ‘Designed for Racers, Built for Riders’ philosophy, the new SXR 160 brings to life the Crossmax design styling, sporty appeal, fun riding experience, great ergonomics and comfort. Designed in Italy, SXR 160 is expected to set a new benchmark in India’s premium two-wheeler segment as it will deliver a strong differentiation and drive the trend of the future. It will come in 160 CC BS-VI and 125 CC BS-VI options with 3V Tech FI Engine technology. These will be complemented by a host of features like LED twin head and tail lights technology with Daytime Eyeline Position Lamps, large lit up under storage area and split glove box with USB charging in the front, integrated dark fly screen, raised convenient steering handle bar,

large 210 cm multifunction all digital cluster including mileage indicator, Anti-lock Braking System and disc brake, twelve-inch, 5 spoke petal machined rim alloy wheels with wide pattern tyres, dark chrome embellishments, and sporty eye-catching chrome garnish exhaust.

The SXR 160 will be available in four vibrant colours – Red, Blue, White and Black. Riders can choose also from a wide range of specially designed accessories like connectivity, mobile docking system and merchandise like Aprilia helmets and apparel. Booking for SXR 160 will commence online from August 2020.

Vespa Elettrica 

Piaggio Group’s sustainability consideration and long experience in electric mobility have provided technological solutions for increasingly sustainable and liveable urban habitat globally. Vespa Elettrica produced in Italy demonstrated Piaggio Group’s technological solution for electric mobility.

As the Indian market is witnessing a quick transition on adoption of electric mobility solutions, Piaggio believes that there will be strong market growth over the coming three to five years with product and technological innovations and cost rationalisation. Piaggio Group plans to offer an excellent electric mobility solution which will be highly differentiated and will be the unparalleled choice to environmentally-conscious Indian consumers. 

Shedding light on the opportunity the company sees for Aprilia SXR 160 and Electric-mobility in India, Diego Graffi, Managing Director and CEO, Piaggio India, said, “India continues to remain a strategic market for us. In the past few years we have seen the changing preferences of the Indian consumers. Aligned to these changes, we are proud to introduce new products which cut across categories and fulfil the needs of our customers. Aprilia SXR 160 is set to create a new category benchmark. With the growing changes in the electric two-wheeler ecosystem Piaggio India is in the process of introducing innovative electric -mobility solutions in India keeping the local consumer in mind. We are exploring multiple platforms for designing electric mobility solutions for India.”

 In addition to these, Piaggio India had on display the limited-edition Vespa Racing Sixties Vespa 2020 Facelifts: Vespa RED, Vespa SXL/ VXL Facelift Aprilia SR 160 and Aprilia Storm 125 with disc brakes. These are all expected to be launched in Q2, 2020. 

Interesting global product propositions such as Moto Guzzi V85 TT and RSV4 1100 Factory were also on display at the Piaggio Pavilion.

Vespa was launched in India in April 2012. The Company has a state-of-the-art plant in Baramati, Maharashtra. (MT)

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Royal Enfield has launched a refreshed version of its popular cruiser, the Meteor 350 with prices starting INR 195,762 for the Fireball variant.

It comes in four distinct variants – Fireball, Stellar, Aurora, and Supernova – with seven new colour options. All models are powered by the same 349cc air-cooled 'J-series' engine, which produces 20.2 bhp and 27 Nm of torque. However, the new line-up features several standard upgrades: LED headlamps, Tripper pod for navigation, LED turn indicators, USB Type-C fast-charging port, Assist-and-slip clutch and Adjustable levers.

The Fireball and Stellar variants now include the LED headlamps and Tripper pod as standard features. Meanwhile, the top-tier Supernova and Aurora models now come with adjustable levers, making them fully-equipped for long-distance touring.

Royal Enfield has also revamped the aesthetics of the Meteor 350 with new colour schemes tailored to different rider preferences. The Supernova variant now offers modern colours with chrome finishes, while the Aurora variant features heritage-inspired schemes for a retro feel. The Stellar and Fireball variants, with their subtle and vibrant colours respectively, are aimed at younger riders seeking a solo, free-spirited experience.

B Govindarajan, Managing Director and CEO, Eicher Motors, said, “For decades, Royal Enfield's philosophy of pure, unadulterated riding has strongly resonated with many riders across geographies. The launch of the Meteor 350 back in the year 2020 has brought in a new generation of riders who seek a distinct identity on the road. Today, it has become a preferred choice for those who value the cruiser aesthetic and a laid-back style of riding, be it for quick city errands or for longer explorations beyond the city limits. The Meteor 350 is not just a motorcycle, but a lifestyle statement for relaxed journeys and memorable experiences on the open road. We are super excited to bring the refreshed and updated version of the Meteor 350 portfolio which we believe will further elevate the experience of our community."

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Suzuki Motorcycle India Private Ltd. (SMIPL), a subsidiary of Japan’s Suzuki Motor Corporation, has announced a new strategic partnership with Jana Small Finance Bank (JSFB), a rapidly growing institution in vehicle financing. This collaboration is designed to significantly improve customer access to financing for Suzuki's range of scooters and motorcycles across both urban and rural Indian markets.

By uniting SMIPL's widespread dealer network with JSFB's strong national presence, the alliance aims to make ownership more attainable. A key benefit for customers will be access to highly competitive financial products, which include attractive interest rates and expedited loan approvals that require minimal documentation. The partnership also promises to deliver flexibility through tailored repayment plans structured to suit a wide variety of individual financial situations.

Further enhancing the experience, JSFB will provide digital application platforms, continuous operational support, and the convenience of pre-approved loan offers. This comprehensive approach is intended to create a seamless, efficient and entirely transparent financing journey for every customer, from initial inquiry to final payment. The memorandum of understanding was formally executed by senior leadership from both organisations.

Deepak Mutreja, Vice-President, Sales & Marketing, Suzuki Motorcycle India Private Ltd., said, “Customer convenience remains at the heart of everything we do at Suzuki Motorcycle India. Our association with Jana Small Finance Bank will expand financing options and bring added flexibility for two-wheeler customers across India. Through this partnership, we will also be able to deepen our presence in newer markets and benefit from JSFB’s vast network, particularly in tier-2 and tier-3 cities, allowing more customers to experience the joy of owning their favourite Suzuki two-wheeler.”

Pradeep Rebello, Business Head – Vehicle Loans, Jana Small Finance Bank, said, “At Jana Bank, we are committed to making financial inclusion a reality for millions. Our distribution with 809 branches, 4.6 million customers spread across 25 states coupled with this important partnership with Suzuki Motorcycle India allows us to serve our customers better by providing affordable and seamless financing for two-wheelers. With our digital-first processes, we ensure that every customer enjoys convenience, speed and trust in their loan journey. Our ability to support Suzuki’s expansive customer base demonstrates the power of our nationwide presence and dedication to delivering modern, inclusive banking solutions for all Indians.”

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Hero MotoCorp, the world’s largest manufacturer of motorcycles and scooters, has appointed Harshavardhan Chitale as its new Chief Executive Officer (CEO). The appointment, approved by the Board of Directors, is effective starting 5 January 2026.

Chitale brings more than three decades of global leadership experience to the role, with a strong background in industrial automation, digital transformation and information technology.

He has previously held senior executive positions at several multinational corporations, including serving as Global CEO of Signify's Professional Business, a leader in lighting solutions. During his time at Signify, Chitale led a global workforce of 12,000 employees and was credited with doubling the business’s profitability.

Dr Pawan Munjal, Executive Chairman, Hero MotoCorp, said, “Harsh’s outstanding track record in driving growth, fostering innovation, and leading global transformation makes him the ideal leader for Hero MotoCorp at this pivotal moment. His vision and dynamism will accelerate our journey across electric and emerging mobility, premiumisation, digitalisation, sustainability and organisational renewal – shaping the future of mobility and beyond. With Harsh at the helm, Hero MotoCorp is well-positioned to realise its full potential and deliver enduring value to shareholders, customers, employees and society at large.”

Chitale's past roles also include Vice Chairman & Managing Director of Philips Lighting India and leadership positions at HCL Infosystems and Honeywell Automation India. He is also an alumnus of the Indian Institute of Technology, Delhi, and an active angel investor in sectors like EVs and clean energy.

As part of the transition, Vikram Kasbekar, who served as Acting CEO, will work closely with Chitale to ensure a smooth handover. Kasbekar will continue to serve on the board as Executive Director and Chief Technology Officer.

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Celebrating two decades of its flagship motorcycle, TVS Apache, TVS Motor Company has launched special limited-edition variants and new top-tier trims for its entire lineup. This anniversary launch encompasses the RTR 160, 180, 200, 310 and RR310, reinforcing the brand's position in the sports motorcycle segment.

The commemorative models are distinguished by an exclusive black-champagne-gold livery, dual-tone alloy wheels, a dedicated 20-year logo and a first-ever USB charger for the Apache series, making them distinctive collector's items. Alongside these celebratory editions, TVS has introduced new top-of-the-line 4V variants for the RTR 160 and RTR 200. These new trims are equipped with significant technological upgrades, including cutting-edge Class-D projector headlamps with LED DRLs, full LED lighting and a sophisticated 5-inch Bluetooth-connected TFT display. They also introduce advanced performance features like a Traction Control System and an assist and slipper clutch, enhancing both safety and riding dynamics.

Since its inception in 2005, the TVS Apache brand has been defined by its track-to-road philosophy, transferring race-bred technologies from TVS Racing directly to consumers. This approach has cemented its reputation for performance and innovation, making it a preferred choice for over 6.5 million riders globally. The new models continue this legacy, offering powerful engines acclaimed as best-in-class, along with segment-first amenities such as multiple ride modes and dual-channel ABS.

The new celebratory editions and the enhanced 4V variants are now available at introductory ex-showroom prices, with bookings officially open. This launch not only honours the motorcycle's 20-year history but also propels the Apache brand forward with a strengthened commitment to design excellence, technological leadership and a rider-centric philosophy. The prices are given below:

K N Radhakrishnan, Director and CEO, TVS Motor Company, said, “We are deeply grateful to the 6.5 million-strong TVS Apache community across the world whose unwavering trust and passion have shaped our journey over the last two decades. Their love for performance and adrenaline has propelled TVS Apache to become one of the fastest growing sports motorcycle brands, globally. This milestone belongs to every member of the TVSM family – our engineers, designers, factory teams, dealers, suppliers and partners – who push the limits of innovation every day. As we look ahead, we remain focused on carrying forward the Apache legacy by entering new segments, expanding into more markets and creating communities that inspire the next generation of riders.”

Vimal Sumbly, Head Business – Premium, TVS Motor Company, said, “For two decades, TVS Apache has been the torchbearer of performance and innovation, and this milestone belongs to every rider who made it part of their journey. To mark 20 years of this legacy, we now introduce a Limited Anniversary Edition along with the all-new top-end variants of the TVS Apache RTR 160 4V and TVS Apache RTR 200 4V – crafted to inspire the next generation of motorcyclists. This achievement is a celebration of the entire TVS Apache family – a global community united by passion, performance and an unstoppable riding spirit.”

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