Business IdeasBMW explores possibility of entering Indian motorcycle mkt
With fast-changing consumer preferences, German auto major BMW is studying the Indian motorcycle market for launching its products in the country.
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This is the second time after the mid-90s that the auto giant has initiated plans to enter the country"s two-wheeler segment.
"In the long term, we certainly see India as an interesting market. We, therefore, are monitoring trends and competitor activities in the market together with our colleagues from BMW India," a BMW spokesperson said.
The company"s decision to explore possibilities comes in the wake of rising interest in different segments of the motorcycle world, he added.
The official said the Indian market has also witnessed enthusiasm in some comparatively new areas of the bike segment — from sales to travel.
The spokesperson, however, did not give details, saying "we don"t have concrete decisions if or when we will enter the market with BMW motorcycles".
In the mid-90s, BMW had decided to enter the Indian motorcycle market partnering Munjals-promoted Hero Motors. The German firm had planned to launch a mid-sized single-cylinder motorcycle.
However, despite a positive market study, the project had suffered due to lack of sales at that time, the spokesperson said.
During recent years, many global manufacturers have come to India with their high-end motorcycles. Honda, Suzuki and Yamaha have launched superbikes.