XBHP TALKS MR MEGHASHYAM DIGHOLE

Head (Marketing), Premium Motorcycles, TVS Motor Company

xBhp: What was the idea behind the inception of the TVS Apache series of motorcycles?

Mr Meghashyam Dighole: Up until 2005, there were very few products available in the premium motorcycle segment in India, which therefore presented itself as an excellent opportunity for TVS Motor Company to explore as a market. The Apache brand was designed and engineered to cater to the young audience that was on the lookout for a motorcycle which was aggressive and sporty looking, with class-leading performance. The first Apache 150 cc launched towards the end of 2005, was a race-inspired sleek machine, characterised by unique engine features, innovative design, international looks, advanced engineering and technical excellence offering an exhilarating combination of sporty performance and exceptional ride comfort in highways and city roads.

The platform of Apache motorcycles after that has continued to showcase the company’s technological prowess, using years of experience and racing pedigree. As the premium segment was a big emerging market in India back then and continues to grow exponentially, it, therefore, offers a tremendous value to us. It caters to the aspirational customer and is a brand that provides value for money products, delighting customers with the best technology and performance.

xBhp: Can you tell us about the approach when it comes to TVS Motor Company’s development process of performance division i.e. Apache?