Benelli Triples Production Capacity In India

Benelli India has increased the production capacity of its motorcycle assembly facility in Hyderabad. The company can now roll out 20,000 units annually compared to the previous 7,000 units. This number can be further increased to 40,000 units in the future based on market demand.  

The brands future vision includes tapping into the the rapidly-growing electric two-wheeler space in India. The Italian two-wheeler manufacturer could introduce entry-level electric commuters, equivalent to the current crop of petrol-powered bikes and scooters under 150cc, in the near future. The revelation comes in the light of the government's proposal to ban the sale of all petrol-powered two-wheelers under sub-150cc by 2025. What could also work in Benelli's favour is the revised GST rates and FAME II subsidies, which should help the brand price its EV competitively. 

Managing director, Benelli India, Mr.Vikas Jhabakh said, “If we find that the market for electric products is developed and that consumers are willing to spend that much then we can bring it here. The R&D is already there. We just need to tune the products to suit Indian requirements".

To keep in line with the upcoming emission regulations, Benelli is working towards upgrading its current India portfolio to meet BS6 norms by the end of this year. Its portfolio comprises of the TNT 300, TNT 600i, 302R and the TRK 502 range. Going as per plan, Benelli also launched the Leoncino in India priced at Rs 4.79 lakh. This makes it the most affordable 500cc neo-retro styled scrambler to leave the brand's assembly line. Aside from this, the Benelli 600i is also expected to receive a major styling update pretty soon, which should add to its oomph factor and rope in more sales.