BMW Partners with India’s TVS Motor, Plans Sub-500cc Models

BMW announced it has signed a long-term agreement with Indian manufacturer TVS Motor to develop and produce small-displacement motorcycles.

The two companies have been in discussions for several months now, but alliance is only now official. Under the agreement, BMW and TVS will work together to develop a new model with an engine displacement smaller than 500cc. Each company will then produce its own version of this new model, not just for India but for international markets. The new models will be produced in India.

The partnership is similar to the arrangement between KTM and Bajaj Auto which saw the introduction of the KTM 200 Duke and the Bajaj Pulsar 200NS. The new BMW-TVS motorcycle will mark a slight departure from both of their product offerings. The smallest engine in BMW’s current lineup is the 647cc parallel-Twin engine used in its C600 Sport and C650GT scooters while TVS’ lineup are all smaller than 250cc.

“In view of changing motorcycle markets, demographic developments and increasing environmental demands we are expanding our product range so as to tap into fresh growth potential,” says Stephan Schaller, president of BMW Motorrad. “We have a highly expert and experienced partner in the TVS Motor Company. This means that in future we will be able to offer vehicles in smaller capacity classes in addition to the BMW Motorrad core segments.”

No details were provided about any future BMW-TVS models, though Schaller says different kinds of models could come from the partnership.

“Various types of motorcycle are conceivable,” says Schaller. “They will meet the expectations of a BMW motorcycle in terms of riding fun as well as setting a new benchmark when it comes to stability, agility and performance figures. I regard this long-term cooperation as an important step along the road to profitable, sustainable growth.”

TVS is one of India’s largest motorcycle manufacturers, producing about two million motorcycles per year. Working with BMW provides the company with the German brand’s engineering prowess.

“With BMW Motorrad, we see an ideal long-term strategic partner who shares our core values: focus on quality, engineering prowess, innovation and customer satisfaction. We intend to leverage each other’s strengths to deliver a new series of products offering cutting edge technology for our customers.”

[Source: BMW, TVS]

By Dennis Chung