TVS Motor Company acquired Norton Motorcycles in April 2020 through an all-cash deal valued at approximately £16 million (approx Rs 153 crore). Since then, the anticipation of Norton motorcycles landing on Indian shore has been high.
Last year, TVS confirmed that Norton will come to India, but it was only recently confirmed by Sudarshan Venu, MD, TVS Motor Company, that the brand will make its debut in India later this year. In July last year, Norton will launch as many as six new models in selected markets, including India, in the next three years. A new report throws some more light on this development.
Norton Motorcycles in India
According to Autocar India, these new bikes will include all-new single and twin cylinder platforms. It is very evident that TVS wants to challenge Royal Enfield — the undisputed leader in the middleweight (250cc-750cc) segment of motorcycle. The report further mentions that Norton is developing a 400-450cc single-cylinder platform and a 600-650cc twin-cylinder platform.
There is very little information on the kind of engines that TVS will use for these platforms. If cost is a major concern, then TVS will likely go for a simpler air/oil-cooled engine instead of a more complex liquid-cooled setup. However, one thing is almost certain that these new bikes will flaunt a modern classic design which Norton bikes are known for, making them a perfect rival to the Enfields.
However, the recent online report suggests that the upcoming models underpinned by the new single- and twin-cylinder platforms are still at least a year or 18 months away from a commercial launch. As of now, it is expected that the single cylinder model may debut before the twin. More development regarding these products are expected in the coming months.
Earlier reports had suggested that TVS will be building three new motorcycles in the sub-500cc category. Contrary to the latest report, it was previously believed that the first bike in India could be an entry-level model based on TVS’ new 300cc platform.
Source: Autocar India
