ABOUT BAJAJ COMPANY
Bajaj Auto, a flagship company of the Bajaj Group, is a prominent name in the Indian automotive industry. Founded by Jamnalal Bajaj in 1926, the Bajaj Group has diversified into various sectors. Bajaj Auto has become a significant player in the global two- and three-wheeler market.
Early Beginnings
Bajaj Auto was established on November 29, 1945, as M/s Bachraj Trading Corporation Private Limited. Initially, the company imported and sold two- and three-wheelers in India. In 1959, Bajaj Auto obtained a license from the Government of India to manufacture these vehicles, marking the beginning of its manufacturing journey.
Expansion and Iconic Models
The 1960s and 1970s were transformative decades for Bajaj Auto. The company launched its first vehicle, the Vespa 150, in 1960. By 1970, Bajaj had rolled out its 100,000th vehicle. Introducing the iconic Chetak scooter in 1972 became a significant milestone, making Bajaj a household name in India.
Diversification into Motorcycles
In the 1980s, Bajaj Auto began diversifying into motorcycles. The company partnered with Kawasaki to launch the KB100 motorcycle in 1986. This move marked Bajaj’s transition from a scooter manufacturer to a comprehensive two-wheeler manufacturer. The 1990s saw further expansion with the launch of models like the Bajaj Sunny and the M-50.
The Pulsar Revolution
The early 2000s marked a revolutionary period for Bajaj Auto, with the launch of the Bajaj Pulsar in 2001. The Pulsar series redefined sports biking in India, offering a blend of performance and affordability. The Pulsar 150 and 180 variants became immensely popular, followed by upgrades and new models like the Pulsar 200 and 220-Fi.
Strategic Partnerships and Innovations
Bajaj Auto has strategically partnered with global brands to enhance its product offerings. In 2007, Bajaj acquired a stake in KTM, which led to the introduction of KTM models in India. The partnership with Triumph Motorcycles in 2017 aimed to develop mid-capacity motorcycles, further expanding Bajaj’s portfolio.
Recent Developments
In recent years, Bajaj Auto has continued to innovate and expand. The company launched the all-electric Chetak scooter in 2020, marking its entry into the electric vehicle market. Investments in new manufacturing units and partnerships with brands like Triumph highlight Bajaj’s commitment to growth and innovation.
