

Norton’s India Entry: TVS Motor Company, a leading Indian two-wheeler manufacturer, will launch its British brand, Norton Motorcycles, in India by the end of 2025. The FTA supports this move by enabling shared supply chains and reducing trade barriers. TVS acquired Norton in April 2020 for ₹153 crore to revive the iconic brand and expand its global presence.

Free Trade Agreement: India and the United Kingdom recently signed a Free Trade Agreement (FTA) to boost economic ties. Their bilateral trade, currently at $60 billion, is projected to double by 2030. The FTA allows 99% of Indian exports, including auto parts and engines, to enter the UK without import duties, encouraging UK manufacturers to set up operations in India.

TVS’s Major Investment: Since the acquisition, TVS has invested over ₹1,000 crore in Norton. This funding has supported product development, research, and the establishment of a new manufacturing facility in Solihull, UK. The Solihull plant can produce around 8,000 motorcycles annually, strengthening Norton’s production capacity for global markets, including India.

FTA’s Role Praised: Sudarshan Venu, Managing Director of TVS, commended the FTA, highlighting PM Narendra Modi’s vision for expanding India’s global trade. He noted that the agreement opens new markets for Indian companies. For TVS, the FTA facilitates Norton’s India launch by lowering costs and improving access to UK-based resources and components.

Norton’s Model Lineup: TVS plans to introduce six new Norton motorcycles worldwide by 2027. In India, the initial launch may feature premium models like the Commando 961, V4SV, or V4CR, priced expected between ₹20 lakh and ₹50 lakh. These models are likely to be imported from the UK’s Solihull facility via the Completely Built Unit (CBU) route.

Local Production Plans: Norton motorcycles will be manufactured at TVS’s Hosur plant in Tamil Nadu, India. This strategy positions Norton to compete with retro classic brands like Royal Enfield, Triumph, Harley-Davidson, Jawa, and Yezdi. Local production will help TVS offer competitive pricing in India’s growing premium motorcycle market.

New Engine Platforms: Norton is reportedly developing two new engine platforms for India. The first is likely a 350- 450cc single-cylinder engine for affordable models, targeting the Indian market. The second is expected to be a 600- 650cc twin-cylinder engine for global markets, including Europe. A 300cc modern classic motorcycle from the smaller platform is expected to launch in India by 2028.

Tariff Reductions: The India-UK FTA lowers automotive tariffs from 100% to 10% under a quota system. This reduction makes importing premium Norton models more cost-effective for Indian consumers. Meanwhile, local manufacturing of smaller-capacity motorcycles will target the competitive 350- 450cc segment, broadening Norton’s appeal in India.

Market Competition: Norton’s entry into India will challenge established players in the premium retro motorcycle segment. With its British heritage and TVS’s manufacturing expertise, Norton aims to attract riders seeking a blend of classic design and modern engineering. The brand’s launch aligns with India’s rising demand for premium, retro-styled motorcycles.

Launch Timeline: TVS expects to unveil the first Norton motorcycle in India around September 2025, with sales beginning by the end of the year. Supported by the FTA and TVS’s strategic investments, Norton is poised to make a strong debut, offering Indian riders a new option in the premium motorcycle market.
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