ABOUT TVS BIKES
TVS Motor Company, a prominent player in the Indian two-wheeler industry, has a rich innovation and strategic growth history. TVS Motor manufactures a wide range of two-wheelers, including mopeds, scooters, commuter motorcycles, and racing-inspired bikes like the TVS Apache series and the TVS Apache RR310. The company’s diverse product portfolio caters to various segments, ensuring options for different customer preferences and needs.
Early Beginnings and Foundation
- 1911: TVS was founded by T.V. Sundaram Iyengar as a transportation company. Initially, it operated buses between Madurai and Theni under the name Southern Roadways.
- 1962: TVS’s journey in the automotive sector began with the establishment of Sundaram Clayton, which manufactured automotive parts in collaboration with Clayton Dewandre Holdings, UK.
Entry into Two-Wheelers
- 1976: TVS set up a manufacturing plant to produce mopeds, marking its entry into the two-wheeler segment.
- 1980: The TVS 50, India’s first two-seater moped, was launched, revolutionizing personal mobility in India.
Strategic Collaborations and Innovations
- 1982: TVS entered into a technical collaboration with Suzuki Motor Corporation, leading to the establishment of Indo Suzuki Motorcycles Ltd. This partnership introduced 100cc Indo-Japanese motorcycles in India.
- 1989: TVS Motor began manufacturing motorcycles, significantly expanding its product offerings.
- 1994: The launch of the TVS Scooty, a light scooter, further solidified TVS’s presence in the two-wheeler market.
Growth and Technological Advancements
- 2001: TVS ended its collaboration with Suzuki and was renamed TVS Motor Company, focusing on indigenous development.
- 2002: TVS Victor, India’s first fully indigenously developed motorcycle, was launched, showcasing the company’s commitment to innovation.
- 2006: TVS introduced the Apache series, which became India’s first bike to feature an Anti-lock Braking System (ABS).
Expansion and Global Reach
- 2016: TVS began manufacturing the BMW G310R, a model co-developed with BMW Motorrad, highlighting its global partnerships.
- 2020: TVS acquired Norton Motorcycle Company, expanding its footprint in the international market.
- 2022: TVS announced a significant investment in Norton Motorcycle, further strengthening its global presence.
Recent Developments and Future Prospects
- 2024: TVS continues to innovate, introducing vehicles like the TVS iQube and investing in electric vehicle startups.
- Current: TVS Motor Company is the third-largest motorbike manufacturer in India and the second-largest two-wheeler exporter, with a presence in over 60 countries.
TVS Motor Company has evolved from a transportation service provider to a leading two-wheeler manufacturer known for its innovation, quality, and strategic growth. The company’s journey reflects its ability to adapt to changing market dynamics and consumer preferences, ensuring its continued success in the competitive automotive industry.
