Stefan Pierer and the Future of Husqvarna
KTM CEO Stefan Pierer is quite arguably one of the most powerful men in the global two-wheeler market. Recently, Pierer reveled KTM-Husqvarna's big plans for the Asian market.To start with, KTM will update their RC series with the addition of three new offerings in the form of the RC 125, RC 200 and the RC 390, which will be launched at the upcoming EICMA in Milan, November 2013.
Pierer also revealed that the new RC series would be based on the KTM Moto3 race bike, although the 125cc will be only for the European market. Expect the RC 200 and RC 390 faired motorcycles to hit Asian markets in the days to come. With the increase in the performance motorcycle segment in Asia, KTM will seek to cash in on these market. There is already speculation about a faired and a naked-bike version of the RC series bikes.
The second important news from Stefan Pierer is regarding KTM-Bajaj working on an all-new engine concept for the Husqvarna brand. Pierer said that the new motorcycle from the Husqvarna stable would be a true-blue enduro model, which would serve as a dual-purpose entry-level equivalent for the Asian market. KTM have already undertaken the development of the new engine at the former's Chakan factory in India.
As for the marketing perspective the KTM boss said that they would apply the same strategy for Husqvarna in the Asian market as they did for KTM when they initially came into the market with the introduction of 'Orange Days'. Husqvarna will also be introduced with a similar strategy, keeping it on the lines of its parent brand with the introduction of 'Blue and Yellow Days'.
