M&M eyes 10% market share in scooter segment

Mahindra & Mahindra, which entered the two-wheeler market in 2009, is looking at increasing its market share by around 8-10%, with the series of new launches ever year.

Viren Popli, senior vice president strategy and market development- two wheeler, Mahindra and Mahindra Ltd said that five new launches have been planned for this year, two scooters and three motorcycles.

Recently Duro DZ scooter was launched and today the company has launched the Rodeo RZ scooter. Three motorcycles, including Mahindra Mojo, will be launched later this year.

“With these launches, we are hoping to increase our market share to 8-10% from 7-8% in the scooter segment. The environment is challenging but there is never a bad time to launch the products and give consumers a choice,” said Popli.

Asked whether the company's focus will be on the 125cc segment, he said, “The two-wheeler game is not about CC segmentation and Mahindra's focus will not be on the segmentation, it will be based on consumer needs."

The company sold 3.5 lakh two-wheelers (Duro, Rodeo and Duro DZ) since 2009. Mahindra has been selling 10,000 units of Duro DZ a month since its launch in February.

“Capacity is not a constrain for the company. Currently the company's manufacturing facility at Indore can produce upto one million units a year," he said.

Eyeing electric scooter space

The two-wheeler division of Mahindra & Mahindra Ltd today said that it is looking at at electric scooter space.

Popli said: "we are looking at the space with a lot of interest. It may be noted We have experience in electric car space with Reva."

He added, "There are also challenges in terms of battery technology and cost of battery."