Indian Motorcycle Could Begin Local Assembly In 2018

Indian Motorcycle has been quick to introduce its latest models in India. However, given the fact that every motorcycle in the brand’s range is directly imported from the US, the Polaris subsidiary loses its competitive edge when it comes to pricing, due to the heavy import taxes levied. The lack of local production also results in long waiting periods. The Scout Sixty, for example, is Indian’s most affordable model and has a waiting period of about four months. To help improve its standing in the Indian market, Indian Motorcycle is eyeing completely knocked-down unit (CKD) assembly in India, and local operations could begin in 2018.

Speaking to reporters during Indian’s national ride flag-off in Mumbai, Pankaj Dubey, Polaris India MD, confirmed the brand’s intention to start assembling its products locally, though the location for a plant hasn’t been chosen yet. Despite Indian Motorcycle’s niche pricing, the brand has recorded sales of around 200 units in India, with the number expected to rise by the end of 2016. Year-on-year sales have also risen in 2016, motivating the brand to ramp up operations in India.

Currently, Indian Motorcycle has dealerships in Gurgaon, Bengaluru, Chennai, Hyderabad, Mumbai, Ahmedabad and Chandigarh. Two more showrooms will be inaugurated in Jaipur and Kolkata by the end of this year, with Polaris reconstructing the Cochin dealership to retail Indian and Polaris ATV products.

The brand’s range currently includes the Scout Sixty, Scout, Chief Classic, Chief Vintage, Chieftain, Chief Dark Horse, Springfield and Roadmaster. Deliveries of the Springfield will begin around the festive season, while the Chieftain Dark Horse is expected to hit the Indian market in the first half of 2017.