Tag: moto

  • Yamaha Motor Streamlines Global ERP and Business Data for Enhanced Operational Efficiency.

    Yamaha Motor Streamlines Global ERP and Business Data for Enhanced Operational Efficiency.

    Yamaha Motor, the Japanese titan of mobility, is embarking on an ambitious quest to harmonize its global data landscape across all regions and departments. This bold initiative aims to provide employees with reliable data access, paving the way for more agile decision-making, improved reporting, and streamlined operations in delivering enhanced services.

    At the heart of this transformation is Informatica’s AI-powered Master Data Management (MDM) Software as a Service (SaaS) solution, driven by the innovative CLAIRE AI engine. This strategic move allows Yamaha to centralize and automate its cross-domain and cross-departmental data assets, culminating in a rich, contextualized 360-degree view of its operations.

    By implementing this system, Yamaha not only enhances productivity and accelerates data discovery but also ensures the consistency and accuracy of the data that leads to trusted insights. Toyoto Ono, chief general manager at the IT Centre, emphasizes that the Informatica MDM platform will connect regional ERP systems with proprietary “scratch systems,” effectively bridging fragmented operations.

    “This will significantly improve our decision-making, forecasting, and reporting processes, while also unleashing productivity gains and cost efficiencies,” Ono explained.

    Confronting Data Challenges Head-On

    Like many corporations navigating the labyrinth of modern data environments, Yamaha Motor has grappled with extensive and complex data management issues. Compounded by siloed systems in its manufacturing and operational branches scattered around the globe, the need for standardized data frameworks across its global ERP systems became pressing.

    Data harmonization was essential, as inconsistencies in instances and content varied from region to region. The lack of unified master data across Yamaha’s ERP and business systems hampered operational efficiency—something the company was eager to rectify.

    Taito Kozawa, country manager and vice president of Informatica Japan, underscored the significance of this partnership: “We are committed to supporting Yamaha’s ambition to strengthen data-driven decision-making and accelerate AI and digital transformation. As many organizations in Japan are pursuing similar goals, we strive to help our clients unlock meaningful business value through our AI-powered platform and capabilities.”

    Questions & Answers

    How is Yamaha Motor improving its data management processes?
    Yamaha Motor is implementing Informatica’s AI-powered Master Data Management solution to centralize and harmonize its data across various ERP systems, allowing for more effective decision-making and enhanced operational efficiency.

    What challenges did Yamaha face in its data management before this initiative?
    The company struggled with extensive, complex data and siloed systems across global locations, which necessitated data harmonization due to inconsistencies in regional data instances and content.

    What benefits does Yamaha expect from the MDM implementation?
    Yamaha anticipates improved productivity, accelerated data discovery, consistent and accurate insights, and enhanced decision-making processes, all contributing to significant cost efficiencies.

  • Honda Unveils Exclusive Naked Bike in Vietnam, Priced at $21,000 – A Must-See for Enthusiasts!

    Honda Unveils Exclusive Naked Bike in Vietnam, Priced at $21,000 – A Must-See for Enthusiasts!

    Four Honda CB1300SF Final Edition motorcycles made in Japan have been imported and are on sale at around VND550 million (US$21,000). In an exciting development for motorbike enthusiasts, four rare Honda CB1300SF Final Edition motorcycles have been imported into Vietnam, each priced at approximately VND550 million (US$21,000). These are part of the final production run, with only 3,400 units crafted in February before Honda concluded the model in response to evolving exhaust regulations.

    A Tribute to a Legend

    The CB1300SF Final Edition pays homage to the revered CB1000SF, a model that played a crucial role in establishing the Honda CB series as a global favorite in the 1990s, earning a devoted following among riders. As if Honda has sent a love letter to its fans, this motorcycle blends nostalgia with modern engineering.

    Timeless Design Meets Modern Performance

    The CB1300SF sports an upgraded design, retaining its iconic look while boasting an engine displacement of 1,300cc. It features a long, streamlined seat and elevated handlebars that ensure a comfortable riding experience. With a 21-liter fuel tank proudly displaying the Final Edition badge, this bike signifies not just closure but also celebration, offering 113 horsepower at 7,250 RPM.

    Riding Dynamics That Cross Generations

    While competitors in the market target younger riders with sporty designs, the CB1300SF speaks to a broader demographic, drawing both younger enthusiasts and seasoned riders with its classic aesthetic and relaxed riding dynamics. It’s a bike that says, “Age is just a number; let’s hit the road together!”

    Questions & Answers

    What makes the Honda CB1300SF Final Edition a special motorcycle?
    The Honda CB1300SF Final Edition is part of the last production run before Honda discontinued the model due to new exhaust regulations, making it a rare collector’s item and a tribute to the beloved CB1000SF.

    What are the key features of the CB1300SF Final Edition?
    This motorcycle features a nostalgic design with modern performance upgrades, including a 1,300cc engine, comfortable seating, and a distinctive Final Edition badge, all contributing to its appeal across different age groups.

    Why did Honda decide to discontinue the CB1300SF model?
    Honda discontinued the CB1300SF as part of its compliance with stricter exhaust regulations, marking the end of an iconic model that has captured the hearts of motorcycle enthusiasts for decades.

  • Ducati Halts Sales In Vietnam, Seeks New Distributor Amid Showroom Shortages

    Ducati Halts Sales In Vietnam, Seeks New Distributor Amid Showroom Shortages

    Ducati has temporarily paused its motorcycle sales in Vietnam and is on the hunt for a new distributor.

    According to sources close to the situation, customer requests for new products will be logged and subsequently transferred to the new distributor. However, the previous dealer, CT-Wearnes, has not imported any Ducati motorcycles since the start of the year, leaving the lone showroom in Ho Chi Minh City devoid of bikes for sale.

    Although the showroom lacks inventory, it continues to provide maintenance services for Ducati owners. Earlier this year, the Italian brand also shuttered its only northern showroom in Hanoi, citing disappointingly low performance as the reason.

    Established in Bologna, Italy, Ducati made its entry into the Vietnamese market in 2009, initially opening a showroom in the bustling District 1 of Ho Chi Minh City. CT-Wearnes became Ducati’s third distributor in Vietnam in August 2020, but the relationship has soured; the company also handled the distribution of Royal Enfield motorcycles until it withdrew from that deal in September 2024.

    Ducati’s positioning in Vietnam has typically placed it above Japanese competitors such as Honda and Yamaha, leading to premium pricing. The brand’s product lineup caters to diverse preferences, ranging from classic bikes to sport and adventure models. For those on a budget, the Scrambler, one of its more affordable offerings, retails for approximately VND380 million (US$14,500). Think of it as the Italian motorcycle equivalent of a fine espresso—rich, robust, and just a tad expensive!

    Questions & Answers

    What led to Ducati’s halt in sales in Vietnam?
    Ducati has temporarily stopped sales while it seeks a new distributor, as its prior distributor, CT-Wearnes, ceased imports at the start of the year.

    What services are still provided at the Ducati showroom in Vietnam?
    While the showroom in Ho Chi Minh City currently has no bikes for sale, it continues to offer maintenance services for existing Ducati models.

    How does Ducati’s pricing compare to Japanese brands in Vietnam?
    Ducati’s pricing typically positions it above Japanese competitors like Honda and Yamaha, reflecting its premium market strategy in Vietnam.

  • Harley-Davidson Faces $1.4M Fine in Japan for Unfair Dealer Quotas – What This Means for Retailers

    Harley-Davidson Faces $1.4M Fine in Japan for Unfair Dealer Quotas – What This Means for Retailers


    Japan’s antitrust authority is set to impose a significant penalty on Harley-Davidson’s local subsidiary, amounting to JPY200 million (approximately US$1.38 million), for placing unreasonable sales quotas on its dealers.

    The Japan Fair Trade Commission (JFTC) is expected to accompany the fine with a cease-and-desist order aimed at curtailing any future violations. Sources close to the matter indicated that Harley-Davidson has already been informed of the commission’s plans and that their official decision will follow the company’s forthcoming response, as reported by Nikkei.

    According to these sources, Harley-Davidson has been accused of imposing unrealistic sales targets on numerous dealers, terms that could not be met through typical sales efforts. In a move resembling a scene from a high-stakes game of poker, the company reportedly warned dealers that failure to hit these lofty goals could result in the termination of their dealership agreements.

    This contentious practice has allegedly been in place since at least January 2023, if not earlier. Many dealers felt trapped in a bind, forced to purchase motorcycles themselves and subsequently sell them as “registered but unused vehicles,” which are typically resold at lower prices than brand new models.

    Having invested in store renovations and other startup costs to sell these motorcycles, dealers found themselves with little choice but to comply with Harley-Davidson’s demands.

    Under Japan’s antimonopoly law, the abuse of a superior bargaining position to enforce unfair business terms is strictly prohibited. If the JFTC confirms a violation, it can both issue a cease-and-desist order and impose a surcharge of 1% on sales linked to such illicit practices.

    Harley-Davidson, established in 1903 and renowned for its heavyweight motorcycles, sold 151,200 units globally last year, marking a 7% decline compared to 2023 — the second consecutive year of falling sales figures.

    Questions & Answers

    What led to Harley-Davidson being fined in Japan?
    The JFTC found that the motorcycle giant imposed unreasonable sales quotas on its dealers, coupled with threats of contract termination if these targets were not met.

    How has this fine affected Harley-Davidson’s reputation in Japan?
    This incident may tarnish Harley-Davidson’s reputation as a reputable manufacturer, raising serious concerns about its business practices and dealer relationships in the region.

    What measures can dealers take in light of this situation?
    Dealers facing similar pressures may seek legal assistance or report unfair practices to the JFTC, utilizing antimonopoly laws to protect their interests.

  • Yamaha Motor president sustains injury from alleged knife attack by daughter

    Yamaha Motor president sustains injury from alleged knife attack by daughter

    Yoshihiro Hidaka, president of Japanese motorcycle manufacturer Yamaha Motor, suffered an arm injury after being allegedly slashed with a knife by his daughter, Hana Hidaka, at their home in Japan.

    The police arrested Hana on suspicion of attempting to murder her 61-year-old father, Yoshihiro, by attacking him with with a kitchen knife around 3 a.m. on Monday at their home in Iwata, Shizuoka Prefecture, according to The Japan Times.

    The police arrived at the scene in response to an emergency call from Hana, who claimed she had been beaten by her father, according to Kyodo News.

    They said she had made another call at 5:30 p.m. the previous day, prompting them to visit the house afterward.

    The police said that Yoshihiro sustained a minor injury to his left arm, as reported by Japanese news website TokyoReporter.

    Yamaha Motor said it would not comment on the case, citing its private nature and the ongoing investigation.

    Established in 1955, the Iwata-based firm manufactures a wide variety of motorized products, including motorcycles, personal watercraft and boats, according to the company’s website.

  • Royal Enfield Sets Up Dutch Hub For EU Expansion

    Royal Enfield Sets Up Dutch Hub For EU Expansion

    Royal Enfield has set up a new hub in the Netherlands and has plans to open another warehouse in Europe, either in France or Germany, with an eye on strengthening its supply chain across Europe. According to reports, Royal Enfield’s parent company Eicher Motors Ltd has already set up the Dutch arm to reduce its dependency on the UK, after Brexit made it more difficult to move parts to mainland Europe. The brand is also in talks to establish a warehouse, likely to be either in France or Germany, to speed up the supply of products like spare parts and branded merchandise.

    Eicher Motors has invested 500,000 Euros (approximately Rs. 4.5 crore) into the new unit, called Royal Enfield Europe BV. According to Arun Gopal, Royal Enfield’s international head, who is quoted in a news report, the brand’s business is growing quickly in the EU, and a new warehouse will cut lead times by two weeks from 90 days. Royal Enfield plans to start with one warehouse for non-motorcycle products and is in talks with logistics specialists in the EU to manage its range. Germany and France are potential countries for the new warehouse, although no decision has been made as yet.

    In recent years, Royal Enfield has been increasingly pushing across global markets, with exports being a prime focus of its business strategy. In 2023, the company inched closer to the 1 million sales mark, and over the last decade the company has performed above expectations. Although the bulk of Royal Enfield’s motorcycle sales still come from the domestic market, exports have been steadily increasing but still constitute less than 10 percent of overall sales.

    With the new 350 cc J-series platform, the 650 Twins, the Himalayan 411, and the current Himalayan 450, Royal Enfield has streamlined its entire product line-up in recent years to be global products, which will be offered on sale around the world. Clearly, with its origins in the UK, the European market may offer more potential for the brand’s growth and better supply chain and footprint presence may be a step in the right direction.

  • Diesel price continues to rise

    Diesel price continues to rise

    Diesel price went up 1.81% to VND23,050 per liter on Monday, continuing its climb, which began four months ago.

    The fuel has seen its price increase by over 30% since May 11.

    Authorities said that fuel prices have been fluctuating amid concerns about tightened fuel supply after Russia extended its production cut as OPEC+ countries continued to scale down production, while China’s demand recovery has been slower than expected.

    RON92 gasoline fell 0.1% to $103,14 per barrel last week, while RON95 dropped 0.16% to $108.94.

  • Harley-Davidson Announces 8 New Models For 2022

    Harley-Davidson Announces 8 New Models For 2022

    Harley-Davidson has announced seven new bikes for its 2022 line-up, including a trike, and all these are powered by the Milwaukee Eight 117 engine, with 1,920 cc displacement and 170 Nm of peak torque. The new models feature two new baggers, two new Low Riders, and four updated models in the brand’s Custom Vehicle Operations (CVO) range which includes a trike. The new models for 2002 are the Street Glide ST, Road Glide ST, Low Rider S, Low Rider ST, and three CVO bikes and one CVO trike. As the names suggest, all bikes are evolutions of existing models, with significant updates.

    “As part of our focus on stronghold segments, including Grand American Touring and Cruiser, the 2022 product line is designed for power and performance,” said Jochen Zeitz, Chairman, President, and CEO, Harley-Davidson. “Each of these new models features the unrivaled power of the Milwaukee-Eight 117 for those riders who want nothing but the biggest and the best, building on our position as the most desirable motorcycle brand in the world.”

    The Low Rider S and Low Rider ST both have styling reminiscent of earlier Harleys, but have the more powerful and bigger engines. Suspension duties on both the Low Rider models are handled by a 43 mm upside-down fork and a longer rear mono-shock, and also added rear-wheel travel. The Low Rider ST looks like the most distinctly new model, with a fairing that looks like a neo-retro job, and with hard-case panniers. The Low Rider S also gets the same Milwaukee Eight 117 engine but employs a more stripped-down design.

    The Street Glide ST and Road Glide ST have the same engine but are equipped with Reflex linked Brembo brakes with ABS, Boom! Box GTS infotainment system with color touchscreen and navigation, cruise control, and Daymaker LED headlamps. Harley-Davidson’s Cornering Rider Safety Enhancements are optional, offering cornering traction control with ride modes, cornering ABS with linked braking, hill-hold control and tire pressure monitoring.

    The Street Glide ST and Road Glide ST are new additions in the range, which will sit along with the 2022 Street Glide and Street Glide Special, and the Road Glide and Road Glide Special.

    The 2022 CVO models include a CVO Street Glide, CVO Road Glide, CVO Road Glide Limited, and CVO Tri Glide, which is the trike. All the CVO models come with exclusive hand-crafted paint schemes, premium audio systems and Harley’s Cornering Rider Safety Enhancements as standard. The most touring-oriented model in the 2022 CVO range is the CVO Road Glide Limited. At this point of time, it’s unclear if Harley-Davidson will introduce all of the 2022 range in India, but at least the Low Ride and Street Glide ST and Road Glide ST can be expected to be introduced in limited numbers for India.

  • Honda Sets Up Battery Sharing Subsidiary In India

    Honda Sets Up Battery Sharing Subsidiary In India

    Honda has announced setting up a new subsidiary in India, which will focus on the supply chain side of the electric vehicle industry. Called Honda Power Pack Energy India Private Limited, the new subsidiary for battery sharing service in India will offer service for small mobility players. In a statement, Honda has said that the company plans to start battery sharing service for electric auto-rickshaws from the first half of 2022 in Bengaluru, Karnataka, and expand the operations in other Indian cities in a phased manner.

    Swappable batteries will offer subscribers fully-charged batteries at the stations which can be swapped in a matter of minutes, instead of waiting to charge the vehicle.

    “The company will offer battery sharing service for small mobility, which will accelerate the penetration of electric vehicles by solving three issues of electric vehicles: limited range, long charging time, and high cost of batteries,” Honda said in the statement.

    Honda’s all-new portable and swappable batteries will be called “Honda Mobile Power Pack e,” and the company’s battery sharing service subscribers can avail of the services from the nearest battery swapping station. At the battery swapping station, subscribers can swap the used batteries with fully charged ones, and need not wait for charging and can get back on the road in marginal time.

    The company has invested ₹ 135 crore, and will work closely with original equipment manufacturers (OEMs) who wish to integrate Honda’s battery into their vehicles, by providing necessary technical information for an interface. By expanding vehicle OEMs, applications, and service areas, the company aims to onboard more drivers which will further enhance service convenience.

  • Kawasaki To Unveil Three New Electric Motorcycles In 2022

    Kawasaki To Unveil Three New Electric Motorcycles In 2022

    Kawasaki Motors President and CEO Hiroshi Ito have announced that the Japanese brand will introduce not one, but three new electric models in 2022. Addressing the assembled crowd at the EICMA 2021 show in Milan, Italy, Hiroshi Ito laid down a broad outline for Kawasaki’s immediate future plans, including alternative fuels, as well as new products. What is clear from the comments from EICMA 2021 quoted by several sources, is that Kawasaki intends to fully embrace a carbon-neutral society. And what is important is that Kawasaki seems to be almost ready with several new electric models.

    “I would like to share a new commitment with you now. Next year, in 2022, we will show a minimum of three electric vehicles globally. That is a promise,” said Hiroshi Ito, President and CEO, Kawasaki Motors.

    The news seems to be part of Kawasaki’s plans to introduce 10 electric and hybrid motorcycles by 2025. But what is also interesting is Kawasaki’s plans to evaluate other forms of cleaner transportation. In his address, the Kawasaki Motors President and CEO also made mention of the Japanese brand’s commitment to exploring other power sources, including hydrogen, hybrids, and eFuels.

    “In addition to electric vehicles, Kawasaki is looking at all options as we work towards achieving a carbon-neutral society. One example is a hydrogen engine. In Japan, all industries supported by the government are making great efforts to make hydrogen a practical domestic alternative are currently moving forward. The Kawasaki Group is taking on a key role in this project, leading the way in hydrogen production, transport, storage, and use.

    “And just recently, on November 13, Kawasaki Motors decided to take the first steps in developing a hydrogen-powered motorcycle engine with Yamaha. Of course, we will look at the possibilities of other alternative fuels, like biofuel and eFuels,” added Hiroshi Ito.

    The announcement is a clear indication that Kawasaki is serious about cleaner transportation and is leading the development and pursuit of alternative power sources. And it will be interesting to see what the three new electric products will be, but even more interesting will be the development of alternative fuels, including hydrogen power.

  • Royal Enfield’s Parent Company Eicher Motors Debuts On Dow Jones Sustainability Index

    Royal Enfield’s Parent Company Eicher Motors Debuts On Dow Jones Sustainability Index

    Eicher Motors Limited (EML), the parent company of Indian motorcycle brand Royal Enfield, has made its debut on the Dow Jones Sustainability Indices (DSJI) – Emerging Markets category. Eicher Motors is one among only ten global automotive companies to feature on the list for 2021, and is one among three Indian automobile companies on the list. With more than 100 percent year-on-year improvement in its score, Eicher Motors Limited is ranked at an overall 8th position in the list of sustainability leaders in emerging markets.

    The DJSI rankings highlight EML’s increased focus on developing and shaping a robust Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) vision, with measured commitments, targets, and direction for the future. These include improving and adopting effective and environment-friendly manufacturing processes, working towards attaining carbon neutrality, eliminating the usage of single-use plastics, focus on road safety, community development and vocational training programs, among other initiatives.

    Speaking about this achievement, Siddhartha Lal, Managing Director of Eicher Motors Ltd, said, “As we chart EML’s next stage of growth with an immense focus on our strategic business plans and goals, an effective and impactful Environmental, Social and Governance (ESG) vision is a key aspect to define this growth for us. Over the last few years, we have made significant strides across all parameters to deliver positive results in line with a renewed ESG vision. Our inclusion in the DJSI index is a testament to the success of our initiatives and direction. We are committed to making concerted efforts to further realize this vision and deliver a positive impact across the entire product value chain.”

    Royal Enfield’s highest-selling model is the Classic 350, which has sold over 40 lakh units during the past decade. The 2021 Royal Enfield Classic 350 is better in every aspect. It has better engine refinement, better dynamics, and comes with more features and color options.
    Created jointly by S&P Dow Jones Indices and SAM (Suitable Asset Management), the DJSI combines the experience of an established index provider with the expertise of a specialist in Sustainable Investing to select the most sustainable companies from across 61 industries. The indices serve as benchmarks for investors who integrate sustainability considerations into their portfolios and provide an effective engagement platform for investors who wish to encourage companies to improve their corporate sustainability practices.

    Eicher Motors Limited registered an overall score of 61 points and featured in the 76th percentile in FY21 as compared to a score of 29 points and a percentile position of 50 in FY20. The company has marked a significant uptick as compared to its previous performance in the DJSI across all parameters including Governance & Economic Dimension and Environment Dimension amongst others. A total of 360 Indian companies were invited to participate in DJSI in 2021, out of which EML made it to an exclusive list of 15 Indian companies which became a member of the DJSI Emerging Markets Index across all sectors.

  • Royal Enfield’s Parent Company Eicher Motors’ Net Profit Grows 9% In Q2 FY2022

    Royal Enfield’s Parent Company Eicher Motors’ Net Profit Grows 9% In Q2 FY2022

    Eicher Motors Limited (EML), the parent company of Royal Enfield, has announced its audited consolidated financial results for the second quarter of FY 2021-22. For the quarter from July to September 2021, Eicher Motors Limited’s consolidated net profit rose 9 percent to ₹ 373 crore, as against ₹ 343 crore in the same period last year. The company recorded total revenues of ₹ 2,250 crore, up by 5.4 percent as compared to ₹ 2,134 crore in the same period a year ago. Royal Enfield sold 1,23,515 motorcycles during the quarter, a decline of 17.2 percent from 1,49,120 motorcycles sold over the same period in FY 2020-21.

    The Royal Enfield Meteor 350 along with the 650 Twins and the Himalayan have been spearheading the company’s push in the international markets.

    The silver lining was that Royal Enfield ended the quarter with best ever performance in international markets for the second successive quarter with total exports at 17,922 units, more than 132 percent increase over the 7,714 units exported in the same period last year, and almost 41 percent increase over Q2 FY 2019-20.

    Commenting on Eicher Motors’ performance, Siddhartha Lal, Managing Director of Eicher Motors Ltd. said, “The second quarter of the FY 2022 saw a remarkable performance by Royal Enfield in international markets with a growth of more than 130% over the corresponding period last year. Our consistent growth in volumes and global retail presence is testament to the company being on track to realize its vision of becoming the first premium global consumer brand from India.”

    The quarter marked the launch of the all-new Royal Enfield Classic 350, one of the most awaited motorcycles from Royal Enfield this year. On the apparel side of the business, Royal Enfield extended the Make It Yours (MiY) program to its range of riding jackets. In a collaboration that symbolizes an amalgamation of authenticity and safety, Royal Enfield joined hands with TCX to introduce a new range of CE Certified protective riding and lifestyle shoes.

    Royal Enfield marked its maiden foray in motorsports this year, with the first edition of the Continental GT Cup 2021. 2021 marks the 120th anniversary of Royal Enfield, and there are several initiatives planned to celebrate this milestone.

  • Ducati To Become Official MotoE Supplier From 2023

    Ducati To Become Official MotoE Supplier From 2023

    Ducati will be the official motorcycle supplier for the FIM MotoE World Cup, the all-electric racing class at select rounds of the MotoGP World Championship, alongside Moto2 and Moto3. Ducati’s partnership with MotoE is set to begin from the 2023 racing season and will continue through 2026. The news of Ducati supplying MotoE machines has important implications and will be seen as one of the first step towards developing all-electric production machines from the iconic Italian brand. As with the MotoGP and World SBK projects, MotoE is largely expected to prove to be the perfect laboratory to take technology and innovation from the track to the showroom.

    The news comes just after Modena-based Energica announced that it will not renew its contract with Dorna Sports, which expired in 2022, after a four-year partnership. Energica is one of the few manufacturers of high-performance electric motorcycles, and the Energica Ego Corsa racebike used by all MotoE race teams is based directly on its street-legal electric superbike, the Energica Ego.

    Ducati Motor Holding CEO Claudio Domenicali and Dorna Sports CEO Carmelo Ezpeleta announced the partnership at a press conference held at the Misano World Circuit Marco Simoncelli. The MotoE World Cup came into existence in 2019 as part of MotoGP promoter Dorna Sports and the FIM’s push for greener motorcycle racing.

    “We are very proud of this agreement because, like every first, it represents a historic moment for our company. Ducati is always focused towards the future and every time it enters a new world it does so aiming to create the best-performing product possible. This agreement comes at the right time for Ducati, which has been studying electric powertrains for years, as it will allow us to develop within a controlled field: that of competition. We will work to give every participant in the FIM MotoE World Cup a high-performance, electric motorcycle and one made to exemplify being lightweight. It’s in the area of weight, which is a fundamental element of sports bikes, which will prove the greatest challenge. Lightweight machinery has always been in Ducati’s DNA and thanks to the technology and chemistry of the batteries that are evolving quickly, we are sure that we can achieve excellent results.

    “We test our innovations and future-focused technological solutions on circuits all over the world and then create exciting and desirable products for Ducatisti. I am convinced that, once again, we will treasure the experience we gain in the world of competition in order to transfer and apply it to production motorcycles,” said Claudio Domenicali, CEO, Ducati Motor Holding.

    According to Ducati, the new MotoE machine will be purpose built from the principles of Ducati’s racing DNA, with focus on creating a lightweight motorcycle “that unites tradition, passion and innovation for a new era of electric competition in the MotoGP paddock.”

  • Ducati Resumes Factory Tours At Borgo Panigale

    Ducati Resumes Factory Tours At Borgo Panigale

    Guided tours inside the Ducati Factory have resumed from October 2021, after having been discontinued due to the coronavirus pandemic. The Ducati Museum re-opened with pandemic safety regulations in place in May 2021, but the factory had not been open for tours, until now. Visitors during the factory tour will have the opportunity to walk through the production lines, observing what goes inside the factory where Ducati motorcycles are created. The tours are guided and can be booked on Mondays and Fridays of each week.

    Three separate morning tour slots are open, as well as three-afternoon slots. Online booking is on the dedicated platform for both factory tours and Museum visits. In order to ensure the safety and health protection of visitors and workers, access to the facility will be possible by reservation only during the hours indicated with a limited number of entries. The presentation of a valid EU Digital COVID Certificate is mandatory, with the exception of children under 12 years and people unfit for a vaccination with a medical certificate, Ducati announced in a press statement.

    The ticket for the Ducati Museum tour is 17 Euros (around ₹ 1,840), while a combined Museum and Factory tour ticket is for 32 Euros (approximately ₹ 2,785), and will be a day-long tour. For high school students, Ducati is also opening its interactive Physics in Motion laboratory (Fisica in Moto) ba

  • Harley-Davidson Street Glide Special With Arctic Blast Colours Unveiled

    Harley-Davidson Street Glide Special With Arctic Blast Colours Unveiled

    Harley-Davidson has unveiled a limited edition H-D Street Glide Special, hand-finished in Artic Blast paintwork from Gunslinger Custom Paint, in Golden, Colorado. Only 500 units of the Harley-Davidson Street Glide Special factory custom will be made, each with a serialized individual number displayed on the fuel tank. The Street Glide Special was revealed at the 81st Sturgis Motorcycle Rally and will be available in just one single color, a metallic deep blue with bright blue strokes over a pearlescent white base.

    The attractive paintwork is hand-finished at the Gunslinger Custom Paint facility in Golden, Colorado. The facility is known for supplying CVO and limited-edition paint sets for the Harley-Davidson factory. The Street Glide Special in Arctic Blast has a subtle honeycomb pattern painted into the fairing and front fender. The paint scheme adds an exclusive custom finish to the 2021 Harley-Davidson Street Glide Special.

    Mechanically, the H-D Street Glide Special remains the same, and is powered by the larger 114 Milwaukee-Eight engine, with a higher level of trim. The 1,868 cc v-twin engine makes 161 Nm at 3,000 rpm. The 2021 Street Glide Special also features a long list of tech and gadgets, including Prodigy custom wheels, Daymaker LED headlight, Boom! Box GTS infotainment system with touch screen and Apple CarPlay, as well as Android Auto compatibility, and finished with the iconic batwing fairing with split-stream vent. The Arctic Blast Street Glide Special has been priced at $ 38,495, but it’s unlikely to be available on sale in India.