Bajaj & KTM have revealed that they are working on an electric motorcycle. The world is showing quick progress in development and acceptance of electric two-wheelers and quite a few brands have some promising models turning in to reality. Bajaj and KTM reveal that their electric motorcycle will be a high end model, and not a small, limited range, limited speed two-wheeler.
Bajaj Auto is already on course to launch electric two-wheelers, possibly a scooter with the Urbanite nameplate. While this will be more like a bread and butter EV for the mass market, what Bajaj and KTM will jointly produce will be on the top of the shelf. For example, the Harley-Davidson Livewire which is set for an Indian debut later this month has impressive specifications, but all that will come at a cost. Similar would be the product from Bajaj & KTM in the numbers game, but of course, Bajaj will target a competitive price tag. Bajaj and KTM will consider motorcycles as well as scooters under this new division.
The Bajaj & KTM EVs could be ready as early as 2022, and reports had already made the rounds about a new platform being developed for the same. If electric two-wheelers make sense, in the high end segment is something that we will have to gauge from the market response.
For now, KTM has been working hard to bring the 790 Duke to India. The product has been delayed with launch reports speculating month after month for an official launch. The 790 Duke comes powered by a parallel-twin cylinder, 799cc, liquid-cooled motor producing 105 HP of power and 87 Nm of torque matched to a slipper assist clutch and a 6-speed gearbox. The 790 Duke has also seen siblings in the adventure touring segment, but for India, we might just get the naked street bike. When launched, it will rival the likes of Suzuki GSX-S750, Kawasaki Z900, Triumph Street Triple and Yamaha MT-09.