Bajaj to launch new executive segment motorcycle soon

Bajaj Auto's Pulsar has propelled the company's sales in the premium segment in Gujarat.

Over 30,000 units of Pulsar have been sold in the state so far. While Bajaj has a nation-wide share of 65 per cent in the premium segment, in Gujarat, the company has a share of 78 per cent in the premium segment.

The company has chalked out plans to launch a motorcycle in the highest-selling executive segment as its two models "" Caliber 115 and Wind 125 "" have not performed according to expectations.

Although the company officials have not spelt out what the vehicle will be named and its price, the new two-wheeler is expected to be priced lower than Hero Honda Splendor, which is at present the highest selling vehicle in that category.

"We launched the Pulsar a year and a half ago and already have a 78 per cent of the share of the premium segment motorcycles in Gujarat. Great looks, an unbelievable price, excellent performance and an good mileage ensured that the Pulsar has emerged leader among all vehicles in its segment. Going by the trend, we expect Pulsar sales to pick up further," said V Vasu, regional manager, two-wheelers, Bajaj Auto. Nationwide, Pulsar has sold over five lakh units so far.

Vasu, however, said there are no immediate plans to launch any new model in the entry level and premium segments, but the company will soon come out with a new executive segment motorcycle.

"Its pricing will be the key. I feel that the share of Bajaj in the executive segment will shoot up from the existing seven per cent to at least 30 per cent within a year after the vehicle is launched," said Vasu.

Gujarat is the largest motorcycle market in the country as far as the executive segment is concerned, contributing about 12 per cent of the total sales in this segment.

The executive segment is also the fastest growing among all three motorcycles segments, growing at 28 per cent per year. The state is also the fourth largest motorcycle market in the country, with over three lakh vehicles sold annually.

Of the total 2,200 units of Pulsar sold in Gujarat every month, Pulsar 180 accounts for less than 200 units. This means that people have accepted Pulsar 150 because of its pricing and mileage, the company said.

Both the variants of Pulsar are available with a DTSI engine, which ensures higher power, said Vasu.