KEY HIGHLIGHTS
- TVS Apache 450cc in pipeline for launch soon
- Norton 450cc to share the same engine
- To be based on the BMW 450cc upcoming bike
Ever since TVS Motors acquired the Norton brand of British origin, the rumor mill was that a set of new launches will be making their way to India, and now, the big capacity Norton motorcycles have been confirmed for India, alongside a bigger capacity TVS Apache based on the BMW 450cc also slated for launch soon. Read on to find out more details on this latest development, but before that, make sure to join the 91wheels WhatsApp Community of avid petrolheads to never miss out on any latest news and automotive updates.
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TVS Apache 450cc, Norton 450cc Launch Confirmed For India
The iconic British motorcycle marque, Norton, is poised for a grand resurgence, thanks to a strategic acquisition by India's TVS Motor in 2020. After years of dedicated investment and meticulous revival efforts, the Norton project is ready to accelerate, with the first of its new generation bikes expected to hit Indian roads by the close of this year in its meticulously planned global offensive.
Confirming the ambitious roadmap, TVS Motor Managing Director Sudarshan Venu revealed that the curtain will first rise on a powerful 1,200cc, four-cylinder superbike at the prestigious EICMA motorcycle show. This flagship launch is merely the beginning, as EICMA or the period immediately following it will also see the unveiling of three additional Norton models. The long-term vision is even more expansive, with a total of six new Norton motorcycles slated for release over the next three years. Four of these are projected to be available in key European markets, including the UK, France, Germany, Italy, and Spain, by the summer of 2026.
For the Indian market, Norton has its sights set on the burgeoning middle and upper-middle-class segments, aiming to capture the imagination of discerning riders. TVS plans to establish exclusive retail outlets across India, initially targeting major metropolitan areas before expanding to other cities. This strategy, similar to what's anticipated for the upcoming 450cc Apache models, underscores a premium positioning for the revitalized Norton brand. Crucially, Venu affirmed that the entire Norton range will be made available to Indian enthusiasts, a testament to the brand's commitment to this vital market.
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To Utilise BMW's 450cc Mill
The upcoming BMW F 450 GS, will get a parallel-twin engine that promises to be a game-changer in the sub-500cc adventure segment. This all-new mill will feature a 'never-seen-before' ignition offset, suggesting a unique character and aural signature. Delivering a healthy 48 bhp, the engine has been meticulously tuned with a strong emphasis on low-end torque. This same platform, featuring an entirely new twin-cylinder inline engine 6-speed gearbox, will serve as the foundation for the upcoming BMW F 450 GS (expected by year-end), and subsequently for new Apache models.
Verdict
All three brands, BMW, Norton, and Apache, will leverage TVS's manufacturing facility in Hosur, Tamil Nadu. While sharing core hardware, each brand's iteration will boast its distinct styling, ensuring brand identity remains paramount. As the launch dates draw nearer, the prospect of Norton motorcycles gracing Indian roads and global showrooms under TVS's stewardship marks a thrilling new chapter for this legendary British brand. It's a testament to TVS's vision and capability to not just revive, but elevate an icon.
