Bajaj Auto , one of India's leading two-wheeler and commercial vehicle manufacturers, has reported a robust performance in its July sales figures, surpassing market expectations.

Sales Performance

The company recorded total sales of 366,000 units in July, representing a 3% growth compared to 354,169 units sold in the same period last year. This performance exceeded analyst estimates of 360,100 units, demonstrating the company's resilience in a competitive market.

Segment-wise Breakdown

Two-Wheeler Segment

• Domestic sales: 139,279 units (18% decrease year-over-year)
• Exports: 156,968 units (22% increase year-over-year)
• Total two-wheeler sales: 296,247 units (marginally lower year-over-year)

Commercial Vehicle Segment

• Domestic sales: 43,864 units (4% increase year-over-year)
• Exports: 25,889 units (79% increase year-over-year)
• Total commercial vehicle sales: 69,753 units (23% increase year-over-year)

Overall Performance

Key Highlights

• Despite a 13% decline in domestic sales, Bajaj Auto managed to achieve overall growth due to strong export performance.
• Exports saw a significant 28% year-on-year increase, offsetting the domestic market challenges.
• The commercial vehicle segment showed impressive growth, particularly in exports with a 79% increase.

Year-to-Date Performance

• Total sales for the first four months of the fiscal year stood at 1,477,237 units, a 1% increase from the same period last year.
• Exports continue to drive growth, with a 19% increase in overall exports compared to the previous year.

Bajaj Auto's July sales figures reflect the company's strong position in the export market, which has helped counterbalance the challenges in the domestic market. The significant growth in commercial vehicle exports and the overall increase in two-wheeler exports highlight the company's expanding global presence.

As the automotive industry continues to evolve, Bajaj Auto's performance demonstrates its ability to adapt to changing market dynamics and maintain growth momentum.

Bajaj Auto , the Indian two-wheeler giant, has made a significant move in the global motorcycle market by investing ₹7,200 crore in KTM, the renowned Austrian motorcycle manufacturer. This strategic investment has enabled KTM to resume full production at its Mattighofen plant in Austria, marking a turnaround for the company after recent financial challenges.

Production Resumes After Brief Suspension

KTM's Mattighofen plant, which produced over 210,000 units in 2023, had suspended operations in late April due to component shortages and liquidity problems. The resumption of full production is a positive sign for the company's recovery and future prospects.

Bajaj Auto's Strategic Investment

The ₹7,200 crore funding infusion announced by Bajaj Auto on May 22 includes a debt package aimed at ensuring KTM's business continuity. This investment was made through Bajaj Auto International Holdings BV (BAIHBV), a wholly-owned subsidiary of Bajaj Auto. The move is part of Bajaj's broader strategy to become the majority shareholder in KTM.

KTM's Recent Challenges

KTM had faced significant hurdles in recent times:

• The company entered self-administration following a financial crisis and declining global sales.
• An Austrian court concluded the company's restructuring process.

Production Plans and Partnerships

With the new investment, KTM is now gearing up to:

• Restart production of motorcycles, spare parts, accessories, and apparel across all sites.
• Continue its manufacturing partnership with CFMoto and Zeeho for electric two-wheelers.

However, it's worth noting that KTM has ended its distribution agreement for CFMoto and Zeeho electric two-wheelers in several European markets, effective June 1.

Impact on European Production

The revival of the Mattighofen plant is crucial for KTM's European production capabilities:

This resumption of full production is expected to significantly boost KTM's manufacturing output and market presence.

The substantial investment by Bajaj Auto not only demonstrates its commitment to KTM but also strengthens its position in the global motorcycle market. As KTM works to overcome its recent challenges, the partnership with Bajaj Auto could play a pivotal role in shaping the future of both companies in the competitive two-wheeler industry.