The mass market is the most appealing target for most of the automakers these days. Be it the two-wheeler or the four-wheeler manufacturer, the focus is definitely on the mass market as it is the one that helps boost the volumes. Offering something that is sought by majority of the market is a must and thus catering to one specific segment can no longer to profitable. DSK Hyosung, which sells Hyosung-branded sports bikes in India, is now eyeing the India’s mass market. Formed as a partnership between South Korea’s S and T Motors and Pune-based DSK Group, DSK Hyosung is taking steps to cater to the 125 cc to 150 cc motorcycle segment.
The 125 cc to 150 cc is the most sought range by the customers these days. The reasons can be numerous for such a choice but the bottom-line is that this segment has the potential growth. Looking at the opportunity, the company has plans to manufacture small capacity motorcycles which are specific for Indian roads and customers. These developments will place over the next two years. Currently, the Korean manufacturer sells its RT125D in European market. Studies are going on to check the feasibility of using that engine for India. Initially the local partners will take up the production. Later, once the plant and the research and development centre are set up, production will be shifted. The land for the plant has not been finalized yet the company hopes to zero in to a location by the next three months.
At present, the company is focusing majorly on its new offering GT250R. GT250R is powered by a 249cc, 75-degree, V-twin, DOHC engine. The engine produces a peak power output of 27.6 BHP at 10,000 RPM and peak torque output of 22.07 Nm at 8000 RPM. By 2012-13, the company has targets to sell 3,000 units, thus taking the total number of units sold to 3,750. Another offering from the company, GV250, which was slated to be launched by September, will now be launched by December. GV250 will be powered by a 249cc, air and oil-cooled, fuel injected engine which is mated to a 5-speed gearbox and produces 25 BHP of power at 10000 RPM and 22 Nm of torque at 7500 RPM. Product plans apart, the company also has plans to expand its dealership base which currently stands at 18 to around 35-40 by the first quarter of year 2013.
Source – Autocar Professional
