We may set up R & D centre in India: Shirish Kulkarni

Interview with MD, DSK Motowheels

His passion for super bikes resulted in DSK Group foraying into the super biking segment with strategic partnership with leading Korean brand Hyosung. DSK Motowheels under the leadership of Shirish Kulkarni, Managing Director - DSK Motowheels currently has the largest super bike dealership network in the country. The primary objective of DSK Motowheels is providing India with a world class super biking experience at an affordable price. Shirish shares his views and future plans with Hrishikesh Joshi.

Tell us something about your association with Hyosung?
We were excited to get in to the Super biking market and are glad to be associated with a brand like Hyosung which is known for its stylized powerful bikes . In one year of their existence Hyosung has built a name for itself in the minds of Superbiking enthusiasts Of the country and we want to take this forward. Hyosung has the experience, technology and product mix required for Indian market. Our Core strength lies in front end sales and marketing. We are also known for our service qualities and customer care. We plan to leverage each other's strengths and create synergies to make DSK Hyosung one of the most sought after superbike brand among youth in the country."

Hyosung association began last year, how is it shaping and what are your future plans?

Within a years time we have done a very good job. With rising incomes, and aspirational lifestyles we believe that the demand for superbikes is going to grow exponentially in this country in times to come. If you look at the numbers, we have sold 1,265 bikes till end of March 2013. In the coming fiscal, we have a target to sell over 2000 bikes in India. We are receiving around 150 bookings every month. Even in the cities like Kolhapur and Nanded in Maharashtra, our bikes are in demand.

What is your dealer count, what will be the figure by end of the year? How much have you invested in building the dealer network?
When we took over from Garware Motors, there were 18 dealers. Within a year , the number has touched to 26 across India. In the next one year we will add more 4 to 5 dealers in the cities like Jaipur, Bhopal, Vishakhapattanam and Either Mangalore or Hubli.

What is the investment outlay for the current fiscal year and over the next 3-5 years for DSK Motowheels?
As far as DSK Motowheels is concern, we have aggressive plans. Currently, the units are being assembled at Wai plant. The capacity is of assembling 270 units per month. But we are planing to set up a new plant for these bikes for which 100 acres of land has been acquired in Karad MIDC which is 184 kms away from Pune. The plant capacity will be of manufacturing 10,000 bikes per year. The total investment for this will be ' 300 crore. The plant will be operational in the next 18 months.

From when will DSK Hyosung localize their products in India, if yes, by when will you start the process?
It is too early to comment on this issue. The decision will be taken jointly by DSK and S&T Motors. In the near future, we may set up an  R & D centre in India. As per my knowledge, up to 70 per cent localization is possible. It will bring down costs and make superbikes more affordable in India. But as of now, there is no possibility of sourcing parts locally.