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Is Hero MotoCorp considering to take over Ducati?

Since 2010, when Hero decided to part ways with technology partner, Honda of Japan, the Indian company has been on the lookout for a viable long-term partner that could bring along a thorough know-how of two-wheeler technologies. Being the world’s biggest two-wheeler makers, Hero know how to sell bikes; all they
need is strong R&D that churns out fresh, attractive and dependable vehicles, which have been the pillar of Hero products in the last three decades.|

Internationally, news agencies are abuzz with reports of Ducati Motor Holding SpA being on the lookout for financial support and a possible buy-out. The Italian superbike maker has a profile that fits perfectly to complete Hero MotoCorp’s dream of becoming a global player. No wonder, this has given rise to rumours that the Indian company is in talks with bankers to buy Ducati. In doing so, the company would gain access to Ducati’s advanced technology, which will come rather handy once Hero and Honda’s licensing comes to an end in 2014.

Speaking to the media, Pawan Kant Munjal, MD, Hero MotoCorp, said that a number of bankers had approached them with a proposition for Ducati buy-out and that Hero had been talking to a number of people. And it’s not just Ducati, but the company speaks to whoever that comes to them.

Other prominent front-runners include the German automobile giants, Volkswagen and BMW. Though there was speculation that even Mahindra & Mahindra had shown interest in this acquisition, it now seems to have fizzled out. Hero MotoCorp have the funds to make the final bid and the current slowdown in European economy would also ensure that they get the iconic Italian company for a good price. The big question that now remains is will Hero MotoCorp manage to do in the global two-wheeler industry what Tata Motors did by acquiring Jaguar and Land Rover in the four-wheeler segment? Well, your guess is as good as ours.

 

Edgar Heinrich, currently with Bajaj Auto’s Product Design department, will join the BMW Motorrad Design Studio as head of design from July 1, 2012, taking over from David Robb.

Heinrich began his career as a motorcycle designer with BMW in 1986 as Head of Vehicle Design (Motorcycles). He was also involved in the design development of the six-cylinder touring bikes and the new maxi-scooters.

In July 2009 he came to India as Vice President, Product Design, Bajaj Auto Ltd, and currently heads their styling and model studio, responsible for brand definition and brand strategies for two and four-wheeler design. He is the man behind the design of the Pulsar 200NS that adorns our March’12 magazine cover.

 

Bajaj Auto has began deliveries of KTM 200 Duke across India in a phased manner through dedicated 32 KTM store (formerly Pro-biking Showrooms).

Some of our readers, who had booked the bike early, have confirmed deliveries in cities like Hyderabad, Bangalore, Pune among others.

During the Hyderabad launch Prakhar Muktibodh, Area Sales Manager, KTM South confirmed the introduction of KTM riding gear and merchandise soon. Talking to reporters Muktibodh said, that the KTM brand has a wide range of accessories and parts that go well with bike lovers. As a part of expanding the business in India, the company is set to bring in these merchandise, including jackets, gloves and helmets. He further added that KTM will launch Power Wear accessories like jackets, gloves, stickers and helmets in a month’s time, before introducing Power Parts like aluminium sprockets, high-grade plastics and alloys and accessories and other fittings, which will be available at the KTM stores.

The KTM 200 Duke is priced at Rs 1.30 lakh on the road Pune, with a liquid-cooled engine that produces 25 PS of peak power and weighs just 136 kg, which give it outstanding power to weight ratio. While the naked bike design makes it fun to ride in the city.

Read the KTM 200 Duke review click here