KTM CEO Stefan Pierer, confirms in an interview that Husqvarna 501 is in the making, and also hinted at the possible launch time frame.
KTM seems to be showering a lot of interest on its Husqvarna brand. The Bajaj-KTM partnership has helped KTM become one of the largest manufacturer in Europe. In a latest, Stefan Pierer – CEO of KTM Group AG has confirmed that there is Husqvarna 501 in the making.
As we reported earlier, the Bajaj-KTM duo is working on developing an all-new 500cc twin-cylinder engine (click here to read the story), and the same engine will be used to power the new Husqvarna 501 series, as well.
What’s more interesting is that the motorcycles – the complete 500 platform, is being developed here in India by the homegrown two-wheeler behemoth – Bajaj Auto! In what could be termed as a huge boost to “Make in India,” Bajaj is working on developing this engine at its R&D center in Chakan, Pune along with the support and skills of KTM’s engineers.
When asked about how soon we can expect the products based on this platform, Pierer replied that it would take around two years for them to develop these motorcycles. So, the first model is expected to be launched in 2022 and it will be followed by many more. It is not known which model(s) is Pierer prioritizing but the Huskys should be in the list of first probables to be released.
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During the same interview, Pierer also gave hints that the engine will be used not just on any one product, but across multiple variants. Pierer has not revealed if it is making both – Svartpilen 501 and Vitpilen 501 or will it be one single model (most likely the Svartpilen since it is more versatile in usage).
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The single cylinder Husqvarna 401s are expected to be launched in India soon and even before that we have the confirmation of the next upgrade point. Rejoice!
– Moin Ahmed
Source – Le Repaire
