Rajiv Bajaj says resetting KTM’s cost structure key to brand revival

Bajaj Auto Managing Director Rajiv Bajaj believes KTM is on the road to recovery and has a “bright future”, provided it can reset its cost structure and restore its premium brand positioning.Speaking to CNBC-TV18, Bajaj said, “We want to reset the cost of KTM and restore the brand. If we manage to do this, then KTM has a bright future.” He added that the Austrian motorcycle brand, which has seen its export numbers rebound, is “getting stronger every week.”

KTM’s exports from India are currently back to 14,000 units, a level Bajaj describes as “the lower end of normalcy.” With improving momentum, he said there’s potential for KTM exports from India to hit a new high, subject to Trump tariffs.
Bajaj Auto’s partnership with KTM began in 2007, when Bajaj Auto International Holdings BV acquired a 14.5% stake in Austria’s KTM Power Sports AG. The stake was gradually increased, and in 2021, the shareholding structure was streamlined, giving Bajaj a 49.9% stake in KTM’s parent company, PTW Holding AG.Also Read: Nissan launches new Magnite KURO special edition with all-black design and 5-star safety rating