VinFast Plots E-Scooter With Battery-Swap Tech For India Market

VinFast e-scooters

Vietnamese automotive company VinFast has unveiled a global business strategy for its electric scooter division, identifying the Philippines, Indonesia, India, Thailand and Malaysia as its initial markets. The expansion follows the company’s performance in Vietnam, where it delivered 406,453 units in 2025 to secure the largest share of the domestic scooter market.

The company plans to introduce a portfolio of models including the VinFast Flazz, Evo, Feliz II and Viper e-scooters, which will come with battery-swapping technology.

VinFast has completed a master plan for three product lines categorised as mainstream, premium and sport. To support these products, the company is collaborating with V-Green to establish charging and battery-swapping infrastructure.

The Philippines will become the first market in this phase, where VinFast has partnered with five dealers: Maverick Racing Factory Inc., MotorCentral, New Nemar Development Corp., Supremebike Corporation and ARC Trading. Globally, the company targets the establishment of hundreds of retail outlets by 2027. The commercial model integrates dealer networks, workshops and financial solutions.

The strategy focuses on regions with high urban mobility demand and shifts toward sustainable transport. VinFast intends to use its manufacturing capabilities and a pricing strategy to compete in the regional scooter segment.

Vo Thi Cam Tu, Managing Director, VinFast E-Scooters Overseas Market, said, "Expanding our e-scooter business globally represents a strategic pillar in VinFast's long-term development roadmap. We have conducted in-depth market research, worked closely with local partners, and developed comprehensive plans for dealer network expansion, product portfolios, and service ecosystems. Through collaboration with reputable dealers and strategic partners worldwide, VinFast is committed to delivering smart, sustainable, and accessible electrified mobility solutions, contributing meaningfully to the green transformation of transportation in diverse markets."

Indian Motorcycle Launches 125th Anniversary Collection

Indian Motorcycle

American legacy two-wheeler brand Indian Motorcycle has announced a limited-edition collection of motorcycles and apparel to mark its 125th anniversary. The range includes three hand-painted models featuring anniversary badging, serial numbers and a specific ‘125th Anniversary Red with Black Crystal’ paint scheme.

The collection features metallic micro-flake paint and pinstriping with ghosted text. Global production is limited for each model and all units come equipped with the RIDE COMMAND+ infotainment system.

The collection consists of three distinct models, each with specific production caps and hardware:

  • Chief Vintage 125th Anniversary Edition (250 Units): This model features wire wheels, valanced fenders, and a floating seat. It is powered by the Thunderstroke 116 engine, which produces 156 Nm of torque. It includes a 101 mm touchscreen and polished floorboards.
  • Scout Bobber 125th Anniversary Edition (450 Units): Powered by the liquid-cooled 1250cc SpeedPlus engine, this model delivers 111 horsepower. It features eight-spoke machined wheels, bobbed fenders and a 101 mm touchscreen display.
  • Indian Challenger 125th Anniversary Edition (250 Units): A bagger model featuring the PowerPlus 112 engine and a chassis-mounted fairing. It is equipped with PowerBand Audio, backlit switch cubes and a 178 mm touchscreen.

A complementary apparel line has been developed to match the motorcycle collection's colour palette. The range includes leather and varsity jackets, sweatshirts, and T-shirts featuring embroidered anniversary graphics. These items are available in limited quantities through the dealership network.

Mike Kennedy, CEO, Indian Motorcycle Company, said, “One hundred and twenty five years is a historic milestone and a true testament to the riders whose passion for the brand kept the spirit of Indian Motorcycle alive and remains our driving force to this day. As we celebrate our anniversary, this special-edition collection of motorcycles and apparel reflects our pride as an iconic American brand and our unyielding commitment to craftsmanship, thoughtful design, and class-leading performance.”

Ola Stenegard, Design Director for Indian Motorcycle, added, “This lineup represents the highest level of craftsmanship we’ve ever achieved. Every motorcycle was painstakingly designed and refined, not just to perform, but to tell a story. The design of the 125th Anniversary Collection pays tribute to the legacy that built Indian Motorcycle, making every model not just a machine, but a lasting symbol of our history and our commitment to American craftsmanship.”

Suzuki Motorcycle India Launches Nationwide Motofest Campaign

Suzuki India

Suzuki Motorcycle India (SMIPL), the subsidiary of Suzuki Motor Corporation, Japan, has initiated a multi-city campaign titled ‘Suzuki Motofest’. The programme is designed to provide on-ground experiences to two-wheeler enthusiasts and customers across India.

The festival will be held at dealerships and public locations, targeting college students, professionals and existing owners. The initiative focuses on product assessment in real-world environments through several event formats.

Suzuki Motofest includes activities tailored to different rider segments:

  • Test Ride Hubs: Open-format test rides at marketplaces and lifestyle centres to evaluate vehicle handling and comfort.
  • Campus Engagements: University events featuring the Avenis x Naruto Shippuden collaboration, combining mobility with anime themes through test rides and interactive sessions.
  • Product Showcases: Regional previews of new colour options for the GIXXER SF 250 and GIXXER 250 at dealerships.
  • Community Rides: Organised group rides intended to connect owners and influencers while promoting motorcycling safety.

To support the campaign, SMIPL has introduced a range of incentives valid for the duration of the Motofest ranging from extended warranty, insurance to vouchers.

Deepak Mutreja, Vice-President, Sales & Marketing, Suzuki Motorcycle India, said, “Suzuki Motofest is a celebration of joy and excitement that comes with riding a Suzuki two-wheeler. We are taking this experience beyond the showroom and closer to customers through multiple on-ground activities. The idea is to let aspiring riders and enthusiasts feel the performance and dynamic appeal of our two-wheelers first-hand while strengthening our growing Suzuki community across India.”

TVS - Rann Utsav

TVS Motor Company (TVSM), one of the leading two-wheeler and three-wheeler manufacturers in the country, has entered its second year of association with Rann Utsav in Gujarat, using the festival to promote motorcycling-led tourism.

The initiative brought together over 100 riders from India and international markets, including Italy and Mexico, to the Rann of Kutch.

The event featured community rides by the TVS Apache Owners Group (AOG) and the TVS Ronin CuLT community. Participants travelled from cities including Mumbai, Pune, Kolhapur, Jaipur and Ahmedabad to reach the white salt plains.

The collaboration introduced the TVS Rann Utsav Custom Series, consisting of five bespoke motorcycles designed as interpretations of the local landscape and culture.

The Rann of Kutch Edition: Four models – the TVS Ronin, TVS Apache RTR 200, TVS Apache RTR 310, and TVS Apache RR 310 – were developed with Eimor Customs. These feature hand-painted designs and laser-cut stainless-steel badges.

Unscripted Exploration Edition: A modified TVS Ronin equipped with dual-purpose tyres, a reinforced rear rack and Ajrak-inspired leather accessories. The finish features a gradient from sky blue to salt white.

The TVS Premium Arena hosted showcases of the company's racing legacy and product performance. Activities included – stunt showcases and FMX displays, flat track training & adventure riding experiences and a Women’s Drift-R Championship.

Harsh Sanghavi, Deputy Chief Minister of Gujarat, said, “The Rann Utsav continues to redefine how destinations can be experienced, blending culture, landscape, and innovation in meaningful ways. The growing participation of riders and communities this year demonstrates how initiatives like this expand the appeal of the Rann of Kutch beyond traditional tourism formats. Collaborations with industry leaders such as TVS Motor Company help strengthen India’s experiential tourism narrative, positioning the Rann of Kutch as a destination that resonates not only nationally, but globally.”

Sudarshan Venu, Chairman, TVS Motor Company, stated, “The Rann of Kutch stands as one of India’s most remarkable expressions of culture and heritage. The Hon’ble Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi’s long-standing vision and encouragement to promote India’s destinations, and experiential tourism has been a strong source of inspiration for TVS Motor. It is an honour to take this vision to the next level by pioneering motorcycling-led adventures that position India’s treasures on the global tourism map.”

Carolwood LP Completes Acquisition Of Indian Motorcycle Company From Polaris, Mike Kenney Takes Over As CEO

Mike Kennedy

Carolwood LP has officially closed its agreement with Polaris to acquire the iconic Indian Motorcycle Company, which will now become an independent business.

The transition coincides with the 125th anniversary of the company, which also sees Mike Kennedy, a veteran of the motorcycle industry, take over as the Chief Executive Officer of the stand-alone entity.

The acquisition agreement includes the transition of approximately 900 employees to the new Indian Motorcycle Company. Manufacturing operations will remain at existing facilities in Spirit Lake, Iowa and Monticello, Minnesota.

Industrial design, technology and product development will continue at research and development centres in Burgdorf, Switzerland and Wyoming, Minnesota. Sales, service, and support for the dealer network and customers are expected to continue without interruption.

The company’s strategy involves concentrated investment in motorcycles, technologies, and craftsmanship. The executive emphasised a commitment to the brand's American manufacturing identity and its dealer partnerships.

Mike Kennedy, said, “It’s an incredible honour to take the helm of Indian Motorcycle as it celebrates its 125th Anniversary, empowered by a sense of gratitude and opportunity, and the support and ambition of a well-resourced, highly motivated ownership team. 2026 will be a special year to honour our history, but more importantly, to drive the brand into the future with a renewed level of commitment, focus and clarity that can only be found as a stand-alone company.”

The new leadership intends to focus on transparency and collaboration with its global dealer network, incorporating feedback into operations, marketing, and product development.

“We will achieve our vision through a deeper level of differentiation, leaning in on what makes our brand unique, and with products that possess a style, craftsmanship and performance quality that is uniquely justified by our historic legacy and spirit of innovation. Dealers are our most important partners, and we will judge our business based on the success of our dealers. We intend to be extremely collaborative with our dealers, actively listening to their feedback and incorporating it into our planning and decision-making, not only in terms of dealer operations, but also product development and marketing. America’s first motorcycle company will put America first. Our brand and business will be grounded in our American identity and more importantly, American manufacturing. ‘Built in America’ is not a slogan. It’s a competitive advantage, and we intend to use it,” added Kennedy.