In conversation with Mr. R Dilip, Executive Vice President – International Business, TVS Motor Company

TVS has played a significant role in the Nepalese motorcycle market. The Hosur-based manufacturer launched the first-ever Apache in India back in 2005 and has been one of the top choices ever since.  Since then, the TVS Apache series has only grown, both in terms of models and fans, in the Nepalese as well as several international markets. TVS has reported that it has crossed the 40 lakh (4 million) global sales milestone.Mr. R. Dilip, Executive Vice President - International Business, TVS Motor Company, speaks to Nepal Drives about the TVS Apache 4 Million global sales milestone and the company's growth plans going forward in the Nepalese market.Tell us about the 4 Million global sales milestone of the TVS Apache series.Launched in 2005, the TVS Apache series is one of the fastest-growing premium motorcycle brands in India, with a strong presence across global markets. Over the years, young and aspirational riders have shown keen interest in performance-oriented, premium motorcycles.  As a result, the TVS Apache brand has garnered immense popularity amongst motorcycle enthusiasts globally.  The platform of Apache motorcycles showcases the company’s technological prowess, using years of experience and racing pedigree.  With a range of motorcycles from 160cc to 310cc, our focus on premiumisation has resulted in us offering many segment-first features and best-in-class technologies to our customers including the RT-Fi engine tech, GTT (Glide Through Technology), Ride Modes, SmartXonnect, and Slipper Clutch. TVS Motor Company recently got itself in the Asia Book of Records on the occasion of 4 Million global Sales milestone celebrations, can you tell us about that?   To commemorate the 4 million global sales milestone celebrations, TVS Motor Company, in collaboration with its TVS Apache customers, has created the “Longest Chequered Flag” spanning a length of 957 feet.  Sourcing images from their customers globally, the flag is an expression of gratitude for their love and faith in the brand.  With over 2,000 images, the chequered flag has set the record in the Asia Book of Records and India Book of Records for creating the longest chequered flag at its TVS Mysore Factory.  Being accredited as the longest chequered flag, the celebration will continue online on https://www.tvsapache.com/OneRacingGene.aspx wherein customers can upload their images and memories, and further share it on social media.How is TVS Motor Company faring in Nepal?Nepal is an important market for TVS Motor Company in terms of both motorcycles and scooters. We are confident of growing our share in the two-wheeler market with the existing product portfolio in Nepal. How does the company plan to increase its presence in the Nepalese market?The company will continue to invest in building a better dealership network and reach in the country.  We have currently, 116 3S outlets in Nepal. The existing products are meeting the market demand and we are consistently working towards having a better understanding of the Nepal consumers.  The company also intends to roll out service, marketing, and brand initiatives in the Nepal market to create awareness about the products. What is your opinion of the BS-VI regulations in Nepal?As a responsible manufacturer, we encourage the implementation of eco-friendly manufacturing practices. The products available in Nepal are of the required standards and we will always strive to create products that meet the requirements of the country.Do you have plans to expand your global footprint? Please share detailsToday, we are present in over 60 countries, and, as we continue to expand business in each of these countries, we will parallelly continue to evaluate potential partnerships.