Bajaj Auto Unveils Low-Cost Boxer Version

As part of an effort to tackle the imminent threat from cheaper Chinese imports, Bajaj Auto, India's largest two-wheeler company, has launched a new version of its largest selling bike, the Kawasaki Bajaj Boxer, at Rs 32,247 (ex-Pune).

The price of the new model is approximately 20 per cent less than the cheapest available Indian model in the four-stroke space, and around 30 per cent lower than the average four-stroke bikes.

The company's launch of the new Boxer CT comes close on the heels of industry apprehensions following the adoption of the World Trade Organisation regulations from April this year.

Among other competitor models are Hero Honda's CD-100 Deluxe priced at Rs 42,855, LML Energy at Rs 47,029 and the Yamaha Crux at Rs 46,000 (ex-Mumbai prices).

However, the less fuel-efficient and less environment friendly two-stroke bikes are available at around Rs 35,000.

R L Ravichandran, vice-president, business development & marketing, Bajaj Auto, said, "The Boxer CT will strengthen the company's position in the entry-level category, which accounts for a majority of the company's motorcycle sales."

Currently, Bajaj Auto offers the Boxer in the entry-level segment, Caliber in the mid-segment and the Eliminator in the premium segment.

Senior Bajaj Auto officials had earlier said they were in talks with a few Chinese component manufacturers for sourcing parts at cheaper rates, in order to cut costs.

Because of the Chinese threat, Indian two-wheeler makers had been clamouring for a higher protection level through increased customs duty.

Even an increase in basic customs duty from 35 per cent to 60 per cent had not fully satisfied the industry, which was demanding much higher duties to be imposed on two-wheeler imports.