TVS Motors has just announced the entry of its wholly-owned legacy brand, Norton Motorcycles, in India by the end of 2025. The premium motorcycle brand will bring the timeless British heritage bikes in India in the premium segment first.
The timing of Norton's launch in India is strategic and leverages the recently sealed India-UK Free Trade Agreement (FTA) to import the premium bikes. TVS has also planned more accessible Norton bikes for the Indian market within the 350- 450cc capacity.
The Norton bikes could potentially range from Rs. 29 to 50 lacs in India and compete with motorcycles from brands like Triumph, Harley-Davidson, Indian Motorcycle, BMW Motorrad, Ducati, and Kawasaki.
About Norton Motorcycles
Norton Motorcycles has a rich history dating back to 1898 in Birmingham, England. The company produced its first motorcycle, the "Energette," in 1902
In April 2020, TVS Motor Company acquired this premium motorcycle company for approximately £16 million (around ₹153 crore). Norton motorcycles are known for a blend of British heritage, distinctive design, and a focus on performance and craftsmanship.
Despite facing many challenges and ownership changes throughout its history, the Norton name has endured due to its strong heritage and the passion it evokes among motorcycle enthusiasts worldwide. TVS is working to retain the production of high-performance and innovative Norton bikes for the world.
Also read: India-UK Trade Deal's Potential For the Indian Auto Sector
Good time to launch Norton Motorcycles in India
TVS has invested a substantial amount (around ₹1000 crore) in Norton since the acquisition to revive and grow the brand. It has been actively looking to expand its global footprint and enter the premium motorcycle segment.
The recently concluded India-UK FTA is a significant catalyst for this strategy. It includes a reduction in import tariffs on CBU bikes from the UK, potentially dropping from over 100% to just 10% under a set quota.
This makes importing initial halo models like the Commando 961 and V4SV/V4CR financially more competitive. This deal benefits Norton's long-term strategy in India, including the manufacturing of smaller capacity models.
Expected TVS Norton bike model launches
The official timeline provided by TVS Motor Company is that Norton Motorcycles will be launched in India by the end of 2025. Initially, Norton will likely introduce its current premium models as Completely Built Units (CBUs) imported from their Solihull, UK facility.
The launch could include models:
- Norton Commando 961: A 961cc parallel-twin engine retro-styled motorcycle producing around 76.8 bhp and 81 Nm of torque. It's available in both Sport and Café Racer versions.
- Norton V4SV: A track-focused superbike powered by a 1200cc V4 engine delivering 185 bhp and 125 Nm of torque. It boasts high-end features like multiple riding modes and carbon fiber bodywork.
- Norton V4CR: A café racer variant of the V4SV with the same 1200cc V4 engine and features but with a distinct café racer aesthetic.
- Made-in-India motorcycles: A new range of more accessible and smaller-capacity motorcycles (around 350- 450cc) is expected to launch later.
