Bajaj Auto Moves to Take Control of KTM, Plans Major Revamp
- By MT Bureau
- May 22, 2025

Pune-headquartered two-wheeler and three-wheeler major Bajaj Auto has announced a strategic move to revive and reshape the future of KTM, by acquiring a controlling stake in the Austrian motorcycle manufacturer, subject to regulatory approvals. This marks a significant shift from Bajaj’s previous role as a minority investor to a leading force in KTM’s global operations.
The move comes amid KTM’s ongoing debt restructuring process, triggered by severe liquidity issues that hampered its day-to-day operations. Through its Dutch subsidiary, Bajaj Auto International Holdings (BAIHBV), Bajaj has arranged a debt funding package of EUR 800 million to support KTM’s recovery and growth. Of this, EUR 200 million has already been infused, with the remaining EUR 600 million being deployed now.
For the unversed, KTM, along with its subsidiaries, entered court-supervised restructuring in November 2024 after failing to manage its rising debt. A plan approved by creditors in February 2025 mandates a 30 percent payout of claims by 23 May 2025. If this payment is not made on time, KTM could be pushed into insolvency.
The funds raised by Bajaj will cover these creditor payments and revive operations. Once payments are confirmed by the Austrian court, the restructuring process is expected to conclude by mid-June 2025.
Path to Ownership
Bajaj currently holds an indirect 37.5 percent stake in Pierer Mobility (PMAG), the parent company of KTM. The proposed deal involves Bajaj acquiring full control of Pierer Bajaj (PBAG), which holds a majority in PMAG. This change in ownership structure will proceed once necessary approvals are obtained from Austrian regulatory bodies.
In a related transaction, Bajaj has also taken over a EUR 80 million loan agreement originally signed by a Pierer group company to prevent complications that might jeopardise the restructuring.
- The EUR 800 million debt package is structured in two parts:
- EUR 200 million: Already disbursed in four tranches during FY2024 and early 2025.
- EUR 600 million: Now being deployed – includes a EUR 450 million secured loan to KTM AG and EUR 150 million in convertible bonds routed through PBAG to support working capital and creditor payments.
These funds were raised via bank loans by BAIHBV and internal contributions from Bajaj Auto.
With the immediate goal of concluding the restructuring process and restarting production, Bajaj is preparing for a broader transformation of KTM’s operations. Key upcoming steps include:
- Revamping KTM’s governance and reconstituting its board.
- Launching a turnaround strategy to restore business momentum.
- Expanding the existing India-based joint development and manufacturing program.
- Exploring strategic partnerships for long-term growth.
Bajaj’s expanded role in KTM is expected to drive global expansion, elevate the brand’s premium image and boost innovation in high-performance motorcycle technologies.
- Ultraviolette Automotive
- F77 MACH 2
- F77 SuperStreet
- Rhino Electric Motor
- Narayan Subramaniam
- Jorge Bialade
Ultraviolette Launches F77 E-Motorcycles In Spain And Portugal
- By MT Bureau
- October 16, 2025

Bengaluru-headquartered electric vehicle maker Ultraviolette has further expanded its global presence with entering the Spain and Portugal markets.
By entering Spain and Portugal, Ultraviolette is positioning itself at the heart of Europe's EV landscape, amplifying its momentum as a trailblazer in mobility. The expansion brings to market vehicles engineered with innovations, safety standards, design and technology honed through years of research and development.
Rhino Electric Motor, the importer and partner, will bring the F77 MACH 2 and F77 SuperStreet to the Peninsula.
The F77 motorcycles redefine performance, accelerating from zero to 60 kmph in just 2.8 seconds. It come with a 10.3 kWh battery pack and delivers a power output of 30 kW, producing 100 Nm of torque. This enables acceleration, handling, and a speed of 155 kmph.
The motorcycles are equipped with technology, including the company's artificial intelligence system, Violette A.I. and switchable Dual-Channel ABS developed by Bosch. Features such as 10 levels of Regenerative Braking, 4 levels of Traction Control and Dynamic Stability Control ensure a smooth riding experience.
Narayan Subramaniam, CEO & Co-Founder, Ultraviolette Automotive, said, "The response from our first customers across France, Germany, the Netherlands, and other European markets has been absolutely phenomenal. Building on that momentum, we are thrilled to announce the launch of the Ultraviolette F77 performance electric motorcycles in Spain and Portugal - both markets that have deep rooted motorcycling culture and are rapidly evolving into hubs for sustainable innovation and EV adoption. This expansion, coming just months after our debut in Paris, is a powerful validation of global resonance with Ultraviolette's motorcycles and technology. It underscores our commitment to bringing Indian engineering excellence to the world, backed by years of rigorous R&D, innovation in performance and a deep focus on rider safety. With the F77, we are setting a new global benchmark for what Indian automotive technology can achieve."
Jorge Bialade, Spokesperson for Rhino Electric Motors, said, "Ultraviolette is a game-changer for the Iberian electric motorcycle market. It brings together technology, design, and emotion, thus proving that sustainable mobility can also be thrilling. That's the real contribution of this brand.”
Hero MotoCorp Strengthens European Presence, Enters Spanish Market
- By MT Bureau
- October 16, 2025

Hero MotoCorp, the world's largest manufacturer of motorcycles and scooters, has announced its official entry into the Republic of Spain in partnership with Noria Motos, part of the ONEX Group and Euro 5+ Models.
With this, the company now has a presence in 50 countries globally, serving a customer base of over 125 million customers.
Sanjay Bhan, Executive Vice-President, Hero MotoCorp, said, "Hero MotoCorp’s entry into Spain marks a defining milestone in our global expansion journey. Following our foray into Italy, our launch in Spain further strengthens our footprint across Europe – one of the world’s most dynamic two-wheeler markets in the world. With presence now spanning 50 international markets across five continents, we reaffirm our commitment to redefining the future of mobility through next-gen mobility solutions that deliver Limitless Freedom and Limitless Adventure to riders everywhere.”
As per the understanding, the ONEX Group, through Noria Motos, will make the products available to Spanish customers with more than 30 official sales and service outlets in major cities across Spain. The idea is to expand the same to more than 50 locations by 2026, and gradually having 100 percent of its network coverage by 2028.
Dawinder Wahla Singh, Business Head, Noria Motos, said, “We are proud to partner with Hero MotoCorp as they make their debut in the Spanish market. Both Hero MotoCorp and the ONEX Group share a deep commitment to putting customers first and ensuring a seamless ownership experience, supported by a robust sales and service network across the country. The Hunk 440 and Xpulse 200 offer a unique combination of technology and value that will resonate deeply with Spanish consumers.”
TVS Motor Co Launches Apache RTX Adventure Motorcycle At INR 199,000
- By MT Bureau
- October 15, 2025

Chennai-based two-wheeler and three-wheeler major TVS Motor Company has launched the new TVS Apache RTX adventure motorcycle, creating a new segment that combines speed with exploration.
The motorcycle is built on the new Next-Gen TVS RT-XD4 engine platform is available at an introductory price of INR 199,000.
The Apache RTX is powered by a 299.1cc single-cylinder, liquid-cooled, 4-stroke DOHC engine that produces 36 PS of power at 9,000 rpm and 28.5 Nm of torque at 7,000 rpm. It features a 6-speed manual transmission, fuel injection, assist and slipper clutch and a Steel trellis frame. The engine platform supports ethanol-blended fuels and has reduced emissions.
The Apache RTX includes several features for on-road and off-road riding:
- Chassis & Suspension: Features a Steel Trellis Frame and Long-Travel Suspension from WP (Front: Inverted Cartridge Fork; Rear: Mono-tube with Floating Piston – MFP).
- Engine Platform: The TVS RT-XD4 engine platform uses 4 Dual Technologies for performance, including Dual Overhead Cams and a Dual cooling jacket cylinder head.
- Electronics: Includes Multiple Ride Modes (Urban, Rain, Tour, Rally), Cruise Control and a Quickshifter.
- Rider Interface: Features a 5-inch TFT Display with Map Mirroring, showing turn-by-turn directions.
- Safety Systems: Includes Traction control, wheelie mitigation and terrain-adaptive ABS.
Gaurav Gupta, President – 2W India Business, TVS Motor Co, said: “At TVS Motor Company, we are constantly understanding evolving customer needs - not just to participate in them, but to redefine. We are frontrunners in many industry-first innovations. Our endeavour is to bring aspiration within reach and inspire new riders. TVS Apache has done this for two decades by redefining performance motorcycling. It is now a global community of over six million riders. We expect the TVS Apache RTX to continue this winning streak and bring renewed spirit and new energy to the adventure rally tourer segment.”
Vimal Sumbly, Head Business - Premium, TVS Motor Company, said: “TVS Apache has continually pushed the envelope in design, technology, and performance — powered by the trust and passion of over 6 million riders across the world, over two decades. With the all-new TVS Apache RTX, we are proud to introduce a new kind of motorcycle that takes this legacy into the world of adventure touring. Crafted with our signature racing DNA and engineered for exploration, the TVS Apache RTX embodies the fearless spirit of the Apache brand. We’re confident that it will not only carry forward the legacy but also dominate this new segment of fast, thrilling adventure motorcycling. This moment belongs to our global Apache community, whose relentless spirit fuels everything we create.”
. The model is available in Viper Green, Metallic Blue, Pearl White, Lightning Black, and Tarn Bronze.
Hero MotoCorp Partners Pelpi International For Italy Market
- By MT Bureau
- October 13, 2025

Hero MotoCorp, a leading two-wheeler manufacturer globally, has announced its official entry into the Republic of Italy. This expansion marks the company’s entry into its 49th international market.
Product distribution will be managed by Pelpi International, a large distributor that offers sales, service, and parts through a network of over 160 dealers. Initial distribution will focus on key cities with 36 dealers, with plans to expand to 54 touchpoints.
The three models available at launch are the Xpulse 200 4V, Xpulse 200 4V Pro and Hunk 440. Both models comply with E5+ and EU standards.
Hunk 440: This model enters the L3e−A2 performance category. Its engine delivers torque of 36.0 Nm at 4000 rpm and power of 27 BHP at 6000 rpm. It features dual-channel ABS with 320 mm front and 240 mm rear discs, USD Cartridge Forks by KYB, a full-digital TFT display and navigation. The Hunk 440 starts at EUR 3,990 (Incl. VAT) and is available in Twilight Blue and Phantom Black.
Xpulse 200 Family: The Xpulse 200 4V Pro has a 4-Valve head that produces 18.9 BHP and 17.35 Nm torque. It includes three ABS Modes (Road, Off-road, and Rally). It is equipped with a digital speedometer, inverted LCD Display, navigation, and LED Projector headlamps. The Xpulse 200 4V starts at EUR 2,990, and the Xpulse 200 4V Pro at EUR 3,190.
Hero MotoCorp will offer a standard 3-year warranty and an additional 2-year warranty as a launch offer, extending the total warranty to 5 years.
Sanjay Bhan, Executive Vice-President, Hero MotoCorp, said, "Entering Italy, the very heartland of two-wheeler culture, marks a defining milestone in Hero MotoCorp’s global expansion journey. We aim to redefine ‘The Future of Mobility’ at a global scale with next-gen smart mobility solutions that cater to diverse riding preferences. With products that reflect both the Explorer and Liberator spirit, we are inviting Italian riders to experience Limitless Freedom and Limitless Adventure every day. Our success in the Dakar Rally with Hero MotoSports is a testimony of our global engineering excellence and the innovation in products that we are bringing for Italy market."
Cesare Gali, Managing Director, Pelpi International, said, “We are proud to champion Hero MotoCorp’s entry into Italy. Their global scale, product quality, and the unparalleled commitment of a 5-year warranty give us immense confidence. The Hunk 440 and Xpulse 200 fill crucial, highly competitive segments in Italy, offering a unique blend of technology and value that will resonate deeply with Italian consumers.”
Pelpi International will make the brand available with 36 dealerships across key cities.
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