To add another chapter to Royal Enfield’s legacy of producing cruisers loved by their riders the company has launched its all-new easy cruiser, the Meteor 350 in three variants. It will be available at a starting price of INR 1,75,817 for the Fireball, INR 1,81,326 for the Stellar, and at INR 1,90,536 for the Supernova editions. (all ex-showroom Chennai prices)
The Meteor 350 inherits its name from another iconic motorcycle of the company in 1950’s. Launched at the end of 1952, the Meteor was a magnificent touring motorcycle with a reputation that has stood the test of time.
Together with the launch of the Meteor 350 comes the company’s Make It Yours - MiY - initiative, an inventive and unique motorcycle personalisation tool. The users can tap into thousands of possible personalisation combinations when they order their motorcycle via the Royal Enfield App, on the website or at a dealership. In addition to the seven standard colourways, under three editions, MiY allows an additional eight colourway options for customers.
Siddhartha Lal, Managing Director of Eicher Motors Ltd. said, “The Meteor 350 is a charming combination of classic cruiser styling with modern capability. We wanted to build a motorcycle that could ensure a great cruising experience for new, as well as experienced riders.”
Vinod K. Dasari, CEO of Royal Enfield, said, “With the Meteor 350, we wanted to build not just a fabulous motorcycle, but also create a whole new way for people to engage with the brand and transform their purchase and ownership experience. While motorcycle personalisation has grown enormously over the last decade, the options available to create a personalised purchase experience are practically non-existent. We’ve changed that.”
Designed and developed by designers and engineers based at Royal Enfield’s two state-of-the-art technical centres, in Chennai, Tamil Nadu, and Bruntingthorpe, UK, the Meteor 350 is powered by 349cc air-oil cooled single-cylinder engine delivering 20.2 bhp and 27 Nm of torque at 4,000 rpm.
Customers booking a Meteor 350 will simultaneously be able to opt for Annual Maintenance Contracts (AMC), extended warranty and roadside assistance, all with flexibility built in to suit the requirements of the rider. Another digital innovation that accompanies the launch is the Royal Enfield Mechanic App. This aims to retool and upskill the entire mechanic ecosystem, authorised service centre network and thousands of freelance mechanics who, for generations, have been extensions of the brand’s service network. The Mechanic App is a digitized platform that offers e-diagnostics for easier, faster and precise diagnosis and resolution of most service needs. By simply plugging in a dongle, riders can interface their motorcycle with the RE Mechanic App via a smartphone. The App also includes a range of valuable additional features such as interactive learning modules, service manuals, electronic parts catalogue and online ordering. (MT)
TVS Motor Company Launches National Campaign For TVS iQube Electric Scooter
- By MT Bureau
- March 20, 2026
TVS Motor Company (TVSM) has announced a new media campaign for its flagship electric scooter, the TVS iQube. The initiative marks the brand's largest television-led rollout to date, featuring high-impact placements across major platforms, including the Indian Premier League (IPL) and cinema.
The campaign highlights the adoption of the TVS iQube by more than 850,000 families in India. Currently, the electric scooter range is available across 3,300 dealerships in over 1,000 cities.
The promotional content focuses on the vehicle's application in daily routines, such as commutes and school runs. It integrates specific technical and design features into these scenarios, including – safety and control, utility and connectivity.
TVS Motor Co is positioning the iQube's value proposition on three principles: Choice regarding range and features, Peace of Mind concerning safety and the purchase experience and Simplicity of operation. The campaign is intended to accelerate the national adoption of electric vehicles (EVs) by positioning the scooter as a versatile family transport solution.
Saurabh Kapoor, VP – Marketing, EV Business, TVS Motor Company, said, “We have always believed that meaningful innovation is rooted in the customer needs. TVS iQube’s journey has been built on the trust of lakhs of customers who have made it an integral part of their everyday lives. This campaign is a natural progression of that journey, strengthening our positioning as India’s favourite family EV. As we take this story to a national stage through television, including marquee platforms like the IPL, we are confident it will resonate deeply with audiences and further accelerate EV adoption across the country.”
Honda Motorcycle & Scooter India Announces INR 15 Billion Expansion At Tapukara Plant
- By MT Bureau
- March 19, 2026
Honda Motorcycle & Scooter India (HMSI), one of the largest two-wheeler manufacturers in the country, is set to invest around INR 15 billion to install a third production line at its manufacturing facility in Tapukara, Rajasthan. The expansion is designed to meet increasing domestic demand for scooters and motorcycles.
The new production line is scheduled to commence operations in 2028. It will have an annual capacity of 670,000 units, raising the Tapukara plant’s total yearly output to 2.01 million units. To support this project, HMSI will acquire 73,700 sqmt of additional land.
The expansion is expected to generate over 2,000 new jobs in the Alwar district, increase HMSI’s total Indian production capacity from 6.25 million to approximately 8 million units by FY2028. This will support the OEM to manufacture various commuter models using automated machining and production efficiency technologies.
At present, HMSI operates four plants in India, in addition to the Tapukara project, a fourth line at the Vithalapur plant in Gujarat is progressing toward a 2027 start date. Since beginning Indian operations in 2001, the company has produced over 70 million units.
The Tapukara factory originally opened in 2011. Continuous efficiency improvements are projected to bring its current baseline capacity to 1.34 million units by the end of the 2026 financial year, prior to the new line's integration.
Tsutsumu Otani, President & CEO, Honda Motorcycle & Scooter India, said,"India is entering a new phase of mobility transformation, and HMSI is committed to leading this journey with responsibility and purpose. Strengthening our production ecosystem at Tapukara is an important step towards building greater resilience, flexibility, and future readiness across our supply chain. This expansion will help us respond more effectively to market demand and continue delivering value that supports the aspirations of millions of customers. In line with our commitment to safer, cleaner, and more accessible mobility, we remain focused on long-term sustainable growth that advances mobility and strengthens the company’s foundation for the future.”
Bhajan Lal Sharma, Chief Minister of Rajasthan, added, “Rajasthan continues to strengthen its position as a preferred destination for world-class manufacturing. The capacity expansion by Honda Motorcycle & Scooter India in their Tapukara situated manufacturing plant is a step forward in that direction. HMSI’s continued investment in the region will not only enhance manufacturing capabilities but also generate employment and contribute to growth of the automotive ecosystem in the region.”
Helmet Manufacturers Association Warns Of Raw Material Price Surge
- By MT Bureau
- March 19, 2026
The Helmet Manufacturers Association of India has reported a significant increase in the cost of raw materials used in helmet production. The association attributes the surge to global supply chain disruptions and geopolitical tensions, which have impacted the petrochemical markets.
Data from the association indicates steep price rises across several critical components:
- Expanded Polystyrene (EPS): Increased by nearly 74 percent.
- ABS and Polycarbonate (PC): Risen by approximately 40 percent.
- Polypropylene (PP): Increased by 45 percent.
- PVC and Packaging: Risen by 33 percent and 47 percent respectively.
These materials are essential for impact absorption and shell construction. The price volatility is driven by higher freight costs and fluctuations in crude oil markets linked to ongoing international conflicts.
India is one of the world’s largest two-wheeler markets, with annual sales exceeding 20 million units and is valued at over USD 2 billion.
The association has warned that rising costs may lead some manufacturers to reduce EPS density or use non-virgin materials to maintain margins. There are also concerns regarding the proliferation of counterfeit or non-compliant BIS certifications in the market.
Rajeev Kapur, President of the Helmet Manufacturers Association of India and MD of Steelbird Hi-Tech India, said, “The sharp rise in raw material prices due to global conflicts and supply chain disruptions is creating serious pressure on manufacturers. In such circumstances, there is a risk that some players may try to reduce EPS density, use non-virgin materials, or compromise on foam thickness to cut costs. Helmets are lifesaving products, and safety standards must never be compromised.”
“Bulk buyers such as vehicle OEMs, delivery companies, bike taxi operators and institutional fleet operators must exercise extreme caution while sourcing helmets. The industry is currently facing a serious challenge with the proliferation of fake or misused BIS certifications. A significant proportion of helmets claiming BIS certification in the market are either counterfeit or do not fully comply with prescribed safety standards,” he added.
BMW Motorrad India Launches M 1000 R Roadster Motorcycle At INR 3.35 Million
- By MT Bureau
- March 16, 2026
German luxury brand BMW Motorrad India has launched the M 1000 R roadster at prices starting INR 3.35 million. The motorcycle is available as a completely built-up unit (CBU), with pre-orders opening today at authorised dealerships with deliveries scheduled to commence in May 2026.
The M 1000 R is powered by a 999 cc water-cooled inline 4-cylinder engine, producing a peak output of 210 hp (154 kW) at 13,750 rpm and a maximum torque of 113 Nm at 11,100 rpm. The vehicle reaches 100 kmph in 3.2 seconds and has a maximum speed of 280 kmph.
The engine incorporates BMW ShiftCam technology to manage torque in the low and medium speed ranges. Mechanical components include titanium valves, camshafts and intake funnels for charge exchange at high speeds.
It features dual LED headlights and M Winglets that provide 11 kg of downforce at 220 kmph. The M Quick action throttle reduces the rotation angle required for acceleration. The rear frame and swingarm are finished in Platinum Grey metallic. Customers can also get an optional M Competition Package, which includes M Carbon wheels and GPS-Laptrigger, carbon covers for the rear wheel, chain & tank and adjustable footrest system.
The M 1000 R is equipped with a 6.5-inch TFT display and an OBD interface for data logging. Integrated riding modes include Rain, Road, Dynamic, Race and Race Pro 1-3. These modes adjust functions for the engine, traction control, wheelie control and ABS Pro using a 6-axis sensor box. The traction control system is derived from RR models.
It is available in two colour options Light White / M Motorsport and White Aluminium metallic matt.
BMW Motorrad India is providing a three-year warranty with no kilometre limit, with options for extensions to a fourth or fifth year. Roadside assistance is included as a 24-hour service.
Hardeep Singh Brar, President and CEO, BMW Group India, said, “The new BMW M 1000 R is a powerful expression of our M genetics, where a high-performance superbike meets a dynamic roadster. It is meticulously crafted for those who demand uncompromising performance both on the streets and the racetrack. With its unmistakable four-cylinder roar, the new M R is built for riders who relentlessly push their limits. This machine brings the uncompromising standards on M performance to the road, ensuring every ride is an authentic experience of power and precision.”
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