KTM teaming up with Bajaj for new range of ‘high-end’ electric motorcycles

KTM is set to go into collaboration with Bajaj Auto to create a new range of ‘high-end’ electric motorcycles, according to the Indian firm’s executive director.

With the electric revolution looming increasingly large on the horizon, the most prominent names in the motorcycle industry are steadily beginning to reveal their road maps for a zero emissions future.

The latest looks set to be KTM, Europe’s largest motorcycle manufacturer, which is currently gearing up for the launch of its first EV, the KTM E-Duke.

Similar in size and power to the KTM Duke 125, the E-Duke is based on the Husqvarna E-Pilen, with both models - plus the new Husqvarna Vektorr e-scooter - to be constructed at Bajaj’s new fourth production facility in Pune, India.

With the plant now up and running, KTM and Bajaj are now set to go into collaboration once more, this time to develop a new range of electric motorcycles, which Bajaj Executive Director Rakesh Sharma describes as ‘high-end’.

“We are also in discussion with KTM (and) there is a joint work going on where we are looking at platforms for high-end electric motorcycles,” Sharms told Times of India during a media briefing.

“[It is] certainly on our radar screen, and it will be announced at the right time.”

While the description of ‘high-end’ might be something of a misnomer depending on what is considered ‘high-end’ - for instance, Royal Enfield is regarded as premium in some markets - it is notable how manufacturers are approaching the EV question from different angles.

Indeed, while some big brands - such as Honda, Ducati and Piaggio - have been reluctant to immediately commit to the outlay and resource of developing electric motorcycles until the market grows, others - like Kawasaki, Yamaha and BMW - have been more proactive.

KTM has previously said it plans to give electric models a sporting edge in line with its image, though this is the first indication that a full range is on the way.