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Tag: Bajaj Auto

  • Arpita Roy Luthra swaps building materials for lifts at Schindler group

    Arpita Roy Luthra swaps building materials for lifts at Schindler group

    NEW DELHI: Arpita Roy Luthra has joined Schindler group as vice president for north India, handling sales, strategy and marketing—a September 2025 move that marks her shift from fibre cement boards to vertical mobility.

    Roy Luthra arrives from Everest Industries, where she spent four years and seven months as national sales and marketing head, driving revenue for the boards and panels division. She turbocharged growth in high-value products by building infrastructure around architect engagement, premium retail and distribution networks, whilst steering new product development through a mix of in-house manufacturing and outsourced partnerships.

    Before Everest, she logged nearly two years as head of marketing for Stallion Group in Lagos, managing automotive brands from Hyundai to Porsche across Sub-Saharan Africa. She helped push the conglomerate’s new car market share from 42 per cent to 45 per cent and secured the national distributorship for Bajaj Auto’s three- and four-wheeler business—a $150m annual turnover addition.

    Her African chapter also included a 19-month stint at Bharti Airtel’s Netherlands-based international arm, managing enterprise operations across 14 operating companies, and a 15-month run at Crown Paints Kenya. But her longest tenure was nine years at Bharti Airtel in India, where she climbed from assistant manager in corporate sales to deputy general manager heading B2B marketing, overseeing mobility, fixed-line voice and data products.

    Earlier stints at Pidilite Industries saw her leading B2B lead generation and key accounts for waterproofing solutions, whilst roles at SAB Miller and Godfrey Phillips India gave her FMCG combat experience in institutional sales.

    Roy Luthra’s track record is built on cracking the B2B code—whether pitching premium cars to Nigerian dealers or fibre cement boards to Indian architects. At Schindler, she’ll deploy that playbook in a market where every new tower needs a lift, and competition for developer mindshare is brutal. The question now: can she make elevators as compelling as automobiles?

  • Pulsar shifts into creator gear with AI-fuelled Underground platform

    Pulsar shifts into creator gear with AI-fuelled Underground platform

    MUMBAI: If rebellion had an engine, it would probably sound like a Pulsar. Bajaj Auto, the world’s most valuable two- and three-wheeler maker, has fired up a new chapter of youth expression with the launch of Pulsar Underground, an AI-enabled creator platform built for India’s boldest dreamers, doers, and daredevils.

    From stunts and soundtracks to graffiti and AI art, the platform celebrates those who express their individuality by creating not just consuming. Staying true to the brand’s iconic mantra of being “Definitely Daring”, Pulsar Underground takes that spirit off the road and into the creator economy, giving young Indians a digital stage to show off what drives them.

    As captured in the campaign “Duniya Dekhti Hai Tu Dikha”, Pulsar has always urged riders to step out and be seen. Now, with Pulsar Underground, that daredevil DNA goes digital blending performance and creativity for a generation that prefers throttle to theory and reels to routine.

    The initiative opens its doors to over 5,000 creators across India, inviting them to take on challenges across biking, stunts, music, dance, art, graffiti, and even AI. The process is refreshingly simple: pick a challenge on www.bajajauto.com/pulsarunderground, create content, and post it on Instagram using #PulsarUnderground while tagging @mypulsarofficial.

    In true Pulsar fashion, rewards are revved up too. Top creators can win a virtual internship with the Pulsar content crew, a Pulsar NS200 or NS400Z, exclusive merchandise, and Amazon vouchers. The best entries will also be featured on Pulsar’s official social handles alongside leading Indian influencers, an open road to recognition for creators who dare to dream loud.

    What makes Pulsar Underground more than just another content contest is its built-in AI tool suite, designed to simplify creation and enable anyone whether a pro or a beginner to produce polished, high-quality content effortlessly. The brand calls it India’s first AI-powered creator economy IP in the automotive space, merging tech innovation with cultural expression.

    “Pulsar has always inspired riders to be daring and stand apart,” said Bajaj Auto Ltd president of marketing Sumeet Narang. “Pulsar Underground extends that same spirit into the digital space giving India’s creators a platform where performance meets creativity. Whether through stunts, music, dance, or art, this initiative is about turning individuality into influence and spotlighting the next generation of daring talent.”

    At its core, Pulsar Underground isn’t just about likes or hashtags, it’s about creating a movement. It’s where bike engines meet beat drops, and every wheelie, verse, or brushstroke becomes a statement of fearless identity. By fusing the thrill of speed with the power of self-expression, Pulsar is redefining what it means to be “definitely daring” in the digital age.

    With this campaign, Bajaj Auto doesn’t just continue to lead on the road, it also accelerates into India’s creator culture, giving young talent the tools and the throttle to push boundaries.

    Because when the underground roars, the world looks up and Duniya Dekhti Hai Tu Dikha gets a whole new meaning.
     

  • Bajaj Auto ropes in marketing chief to rev up brands

    Bajaj Auto ropes in marketing chief to rev up brands

    PUNEL:  India’s third-largest motorcycle maker has hired Kia India’s head of marketing and public relations to spearhead its marketing as well as kick start its sports bike brands further, as competition intensifies in the premium two-wheeler segment.

    Shakti Upadhyay has joined Bajaj Auto as vice president for brands. His first task will be to take charge of the company’s sports motorcycle portfolio including the once-dominant Pulsar and premium Dominar ranges. The appointment comes as Bajaj battles declining market share in key segments whilst rivals like TVS Suzuki and  Honda gain ground.

    Upadhyay spent over seven years at Kia India, where he orchestrated the south Korean carmaker’s transformation from unknown challenger to household name. Under his stewardship, Kia launched the Seltos compact SUV, Sonet sub-compact SUV, and Carnival MPV, helping the brand capture nearly 4 per cent of India’s passenger car market within five years.

    His track record includes award-winning campaigns that blended “bold positioning with emotional storytelling.” At Samsung Electronics, where he spent eight years before Kia, Upadhyay led marketing for consumer durables including premium television ranges.

    Bajaj’s hire signals urgency in revitalising brands that once dominated Indian roads. The Pulsar, launched in 2001, pioneered the performance motorcycle segment but has faced intensifying competition from Honda, and TVS Motor.  Dominar, positioned as a touring motorcycle, has struggled to gain traction since its 2016 launch.

    The Pune-based company’s motorcycle business has faced headwinds as consumers increasingly favour electric vehicles and premium brands. Bajaj’s domestic motorcycle sales fell eight per cent year-on-year in the first half of 2024, whilst competitors expanded market share.

    “Bajaj has always stood for innovation, performance, and a strong challenger spirit,” Upadhyay said in a LinkedIn post announcing his appointment. He emphasised plans to deepen “brand love” and drive “global ambition” for the motorcycle portfolio.

    The marketing veteran’s mandate extends beyond just the domestic market.  Bajaj exports motorcycles to over 70 countries, with international sales contributing roughly 40 per cent of total volumes. The company has a particularly strong presence in Africa and Latin America through partnerships and local assembly operations.

    Upadhyay’s appointment reflects broader industry trends as traditional automotive companies hire  talent from successful challengers. His experience launching new brands in competitive markets could prove valuable as Bajaj seeks to reinvent mature product lines whilst expanding into electric vehicles.

    The company faces particular challenges in the 125-250cc segment even as electric vehicle startups like Ola Electric and Ather Energy have begun encroaching on urban commuter segments traditionally dominated by conventional motorcycles.

    Industry analysts suggest Bajaj’s brand revival efforts will need to balance heritage appeal with contemporary relevance, particularly among younger consumers who increasingly view motorcycles as lifestyle statements rather than purely utilitarian transport.

  • Shantanu Sapre takes charge as chief business officer at MullenLowe Lintas Group

    Shantanu Sapre takes charge as chief business officer at MullenLowe Lintas Group

    MUMBAI: Shantanu Sapre, a seasoned advertising leader with more than 25 years in the business, has been appointed chief business officer at MullenLowe Lintas Group. He stepped into the role in July after a three-year entrepreneurial run, where he was involved in tech start-ups building mobile apps in ticketing, quizzing and fantasy sports.
    Sapre is no stranger to the agency. Over a 15-year stint at MullenLowe, he rose from executive vice president to president, steering some of its biggest business units and contributing nearly a quarter of its India revenues at his peak. He was instrumental in driving the agency’s “hyperbundling” solutions, pushing digital transformation, and broadening its client roster beyond FMCG to online, fashion, sport and media brands.
    Earlier in his career, Sapre held leadership roles at Leo Burnett, TBWA, Euro RSCG and MTV Networks India, where he helped launch Viacom Brand Solutions. His portfolio includes campaigns for Bajaj Auto, Surf, Axis Bank, Johnson’s Baby, Burger King, FirstCry and Mumbai Indians. In 2015, Campaign Asia named him Account Person of the Year.
    Back at MullenLowe, Sapre is expected to lean on his blend of big-agency heft and start-up agility to sharpen the group’s growth strategy, deepen client relationships and accelerate digital-led innovation.

     

  • Caller of the Wild: Truecaller Rings in Record Growth with 15m New Users

    Caller of the Wild: Truecaller Rings in Record Growth with 15m New Users

    MUMBAI: Truecaller has dialled into another stellar quarter and this time, it’s all about strong signals and even stronger numbers. The Swedish platform, best known for helping users identify who’s calling and block the rest, has reported a 21 per cent surge in net sales (in constant currencies) for Q2 2025, clocking in at SEK 496.4 million which is around 47 million dollars.

    Even in Swedish Krona, which saw a sharp rally, growth was a healthy 9 per cent. The company’s EBITDA margin (excluding incentive costs) rose to a punchy 42.6 per cent, with absolute EBITDA at SEK 211.6 million up 20 per cent year-on-year.

    More than just the money, the momentum was visible in user growth: Truecaller added 15 million monthly active users this quarter alone, pushing its non-iOS MAUs to 426.6 million. That’s a 55.3 million jump from Q2 2024, a clear sign that spam isn’t winning.

    Subscriptions were on a tear too, with paying users now crossing the 3 million mark including 1 million on iOS. Subscription revenues shot up by 48 per cent in constant currency, while Truecaller for Business climbed 53 per cent. Advertising revenue, despite currency drag, held steady with 11 per cent growth in constant terms.

    To boost its ads play, the company launched the Truecaller Masthead and Truecaller Play, expanding its video and display offerings. It also introduced an in-house AI recommendation engine, tested with Uber and Bajaj Auto, which showed promising upticks in click-throughs and conversions.

    India, its biggest market, recorded a 5 per cent growth in Q2 net sales. But the Middle East and Africa (MEA) stole the spotlight with a 23 per cent jump, followed by an 18 per cent rise in the rest of the world.

    Still, it wasn’t all sunshine profit after tax dipped to SEK 118 million (from 123 million), thanks in part to the strong Krona. Yet Truecaller CEO Rishit Jhunjhunwala remains upbeat: “We’re solving everyday communication problems and building long-term value. The future looks bright and spam-free.”

    With AI-fuelled growth, a booming subscriber base and a sharp eye on regional expansion, Truecaller’s trajectory might just be the one call everyone wants to answer.
     

  • Bajaj revs up the streetfighter game with 2025 Pulsar NS400Z upgrade

    Bajaj revs up the streetfighter game with 2025 Pulsar NS400Z upgrade

    MUMBAI: Bajaj Auto has dropped the clutch — literally — with the all-new 2025 Pulsar NS400Z, a fire-breathing upgrade to its flagship streetfighter, now packing 43 PS of pure punch, a segment-first quick-shifter, and plenty of new muscle to burn rubber and expectations.

    Priced at Rs 1,92,328 (ex-showroom Delhi), the refreshed NS400Z builds on the momentum of 20,000 units sold since its debut last year, evolving into a leaner, meaner ride sculpted by user feedback and track-inspired engineering.

    What’s new under the hood?

    . Power bumped from 40 PS to 43 PS, thanks to reworked cam timings, intake ducts, and a new forged piston that improves thermal stability and durability.

    .  Acceleration amped up — 0-60 kmph in just 2.7 seconds (down from 3.2), and 0-100 in 6.4 seconds, with a top speed of 157 kmph.

    .   Heat management is sorted via redesigned radiator cowls that blow hot air away from your legs.

    .   Radial tyres front and rear, including a beefier 150-section at the back for better grip and feedback.

    .   Sintered front brake pads for sharper stopping power.

    The bike continues to flaunt its premium street creds with:

    .  43 mm USD forks in Champagne Gold,

    .  LED projector headlamps,

    .   A fully digital LCD console with Bluetooth, music controls, turn-by-turn nav, lap timer, and traction control,

    .  Plus, four ride modes: rain, road, off-road, and sports.

    With this update, Bajaj Auto isn’t just selling a motorcycle — it’s selling a mood. And that mood is fast, fierce, and futuristic.

  • Marketing maestro plugs into EV future at Astro Motors

    Marketing maestro plugs into EV future at Astro Motors

    MUMBAI: Aniruddha Khandekar, a true grand fromage in the marketing consultancy world, has just revved up his career with a cracking new gig. He’s been tapped as the fresh-faced marketing director at Astro Motors IN, an emerging electric vehicle manufacturer looking to absolutely revolutionise the industry. He’s only been on the job since March 2025, but one expects he’s already hitting the ground running in Pune, Maharashtra.

    Astro Motors isn’t just another tin box on wheels; it’s a disruption-focused outfit intent on combining sheer innovation with a dollop of education to cut through the noise in India’s bewildering EV marketplace. Its advanced vehicle design, superior performance, and integrated management systems are built to meet the demands of everyone from your individual punter to the largest fleet operators. It sounds like the folks there are not just selling cars, they’re selling a vision – and a very British one at that.

    Khandekar brings a truly impressive pedigree to the role, having clocked up over 20 years in the cut-throat advertising and media trenches. The strategy consultant and fractional CMO, formerly of G-S-D Consulting, has been a marketing gun-for-hire, delivering impact for a stellar roster of clients. He’s previously steered the strategic ship for heavy hitters like Marico, Colgate Palmolive, Dell, and Lenovo during his VMLY&R days. Before that, his brainy insights bolstered giants such as Bajaj Auto, P&G, Oreo, Asian Paints, and Tata Sky during stints at Leo Burnett and Ogilvy. He’s consulted for everyone from EdTech startups like Accreda to Web3 MarTech platforms such as Cultos, even dabbling in market entry strategy for an electric commuter motorcycle – quite the pre-nup for his current role, one might say!

    With a track record of shaping consumer insights and crafting go-to-market strategies, Khandekar’s arrival promises to inject a serious jolt of marketing wizardry into Astro Motors. The EV space just got a bit more exciting, and rather stylishly so.

  • Madhur Bajaj, auto industry stalwart and Bajaj scion, dies at 73

    Madhur Bajaj, auto industry stalwart and Bajaj scion, dies at 73

    MUMBAI:  Madhur Bajaj, non-executive director of Bajaj Auto and a key figure in India’s automobile sector, passed away on Friday morning at Breach Candy Hospital, Mumbai. He was 73.

    Bajaj, who had been hospitalised due to health complications, suffered a stroke two days ago and succumbed to it around 5 am, company sources confirmed. Further details on the funeral arrangements are awaited.

    Born on 19 August 1952, Madhur Bajaj was a driving force behind Bajaj Auto’s growth and played a pivotal role in shaping the auto and finance industries in India. A graduate of Sydenham College, Mumbai, he later earned an MBA from IMD Lausanne, Switzerland.

    His career spanned across diverse sectors, from automobiles to consumer durables and financial services. He was the past president of Siam, India’s apex automobile manufacturers’ body, and also led the Mahratta Chamber of Commerce, Industries and Agriculture (MCCIA).

    Bajaj held senior positions within the Bajaj group, including non-executive vice chairman of Bajaj Auto and chairman of Maharashtra Scooters Ltd. He also served as a director on the boards of Bajaj Holdings, Bajaj Finserv, Bajaj Electricals, and Bajaj Finance. His contributions to Aurangabad’s industrial and social landscape, including the development of the Kamalnayan Bajaj Hospital and Nath Valley School, remain a lasting legacy.

    Beyond corporate boardrooms, Bajaj was a passionate philanthropist. A trustee of the Jamnalal Bajaj Foundation, he was deeply involved in rural development and water conservation initiatives. He firmly believed that “the secret of living is giving,” dedicating much of his life to social causes.

    Bajaj’s passing marks the end of an era for both the auto industry and Indian business leadership. His vision, influence, and contributions will long be remembered.

  • Bajaj Auto accelerates electric mobility with GoGo three-wheeler launch

    Bajaj Auto accelerates electric mobility with GoGo three-wheeler launch

     MUMBAI: Bajaj Auto Ltd, arguably the world’s most valuable two-wheeler and three-wheeler company, has unveiled Bajaj GoGo, a comprehensive new range of electric three-wheelers set to transform urban mobility with industry-leading performance and technology.

    The new vehicles, which promise an impressive range of up to 251 kilometres on a single charge—the longest in the segment—represent Bajaj’s strategic expansion in the rapidly growing electric three-wheeler market, where the company has already established itself as one of the top two players within just one year of entry.
    “The electric three-wheeler segment in India has been growing at a staggering 30 per cent  CAGR for the past three years, and this growth is expected to continue,” said Bajaj Auto’s Intra City Business Unit president Samardeep Subandh. “With the launch of Bajaj GoGo, we’re blending our 75-year legacy of trust with cutting-edge technology tailored specifically for three-wheelers.”

    The Bajaj GoGo range features three passenger variants—P5009, P5012, and P7012—with the nomenclature indicating passenger vehicles of different sizes (50 and 70) and battery capacities (9kWh and 12kWh). The entry-level P5009 is priced at Rs 3,26,797, while the premium P7012 variant retails at Rs 3,83,004 (ex-showroom Delhi).

    What sets the GoGo range apart is its pioneering two-speed automated transmission system—an industry first that significantly improves range efficiency and gradient performance on challenging road conditions. The vehicles also feature groundbreaking safety innovations including auto hazard detection and anti-roll technology, making them the first electric three-wheelers to offer these as standard features.

    “The all-electric Bajaj GoGo range will provide a comprehensive solution to customers looking to maximise earnings and minimise the hassle of downtime and maintenance,” added Subandh. “The next time you need a ride, hail a Bajaj GoGo!”

    The GoGo brand name draws inspiration from the colloquial term used globally for three-wheelers, reflecting Bajaj Auto’s understanding of the deep cultural connection drivers share with their vehicles. With its full-metal body construction and aesthetic design, the GoGo range aims to appeal to both individual owners and fleet operators.

    Industry analysts note that the impressive 251-kilometre range addresses a critical pain point in the electric three-wheeler segment—range anxiety—which has historically been a barrier to adoption. The five-year battery warranty further reinforces Bajaj’s confidence in the product’s reliability and longevity.

    The company also offers a Premium TecPac with advanced features including remote immobilisation and reverse assist for customers seeking enhanced functionality. According to Bajaj Auto, cargo variants of the GoGo will be introduced in the coming months, expanding the brand’s footprint in the commercial delivery segment.

    Bajaj Auto’s push into the electric three-wheeler segment comes at a time when India’s urban centres are increasingly prioritising sustainable mobility solutions. The GoGo range not only promises environmental benefits but also aims to deliver compelling economics for owners, with significantly reduced operating costs compared to conventional fuel-powered alternatives.

    The company’s extensive dealership network across India will support the nationwide rollout, with bookings now open at all Bajaj Auto dealerships. This robust infrastructure is expected to provide GoGo with a competitive advantage in terms of service support and spare parts availability.

  • Indian navy riders embark on 1,649 km Dare2 rally with Bajaj Auto

    Indian navy riders embark on 1,649 km Dare2 rally with Bajaj Auto

    MUMBAI: In a celebration of daring spirit and patriotism, 15 Indian Navy riders began the 1,649 km Dare2 rally on Bajaj Auto’s Pulsar NS400Z motorcycles. The journey, from Visakhapatnam to Ayodhya, started on 13 January  2025, and aims to connect the armed forces with local communities while inspiring youth to serve the nation.

    Flagged off by vice-admiral Sameer Saxena, AVSM, NM, chief of staff, Eastern Naval Command, at the Eastern Fleet Headquarters, the rally’s route includes key stops like INS Chilka, a vital maritime defense post.

    Bajaj Auto  president of marketing Sumeet Narang  expressed pride in supporting the armed forces, stating, “Our collaboration inspires youth to follow the selfless path of serving the nation.” Vice Admiral Saxena lauded the partnership for fostering unity and patriotism.

    The Pulsar NS400Z, known for its performance and versatility, enables riders to navigate diverse terrains with ease. The rally concludes on  26 January 2025, at the Dogra regiment in Ayodhya, marking India’s seventh sixth Republic Day and honoring the armed forces’ role in national unity.