Update: Norton’s owner Stuart Garner has confirmed that he is not planning to sell the brand to Mahindra or any other entity. In a recent interview to Cycle News he said: I’m not a seller, there is no truth whatsoever in those rumours.”
It has been barely 7 months since Mahindra bought a controlling 31 per cent stake in Peugeot’s two-wheeler division. The ink has barely dried on the contract but the manufacturer is already getting ready to acquire another iconic brand. In fact, not one but as per an article in Economic Times, they are in talks with at least 6 heritage brands from Europe and the US!
The prime contenders are BSA and Norton, two legendary brands to which motorcycle enthusiasts will roll their eyes with fondness! While the latter has been revived by a British businessman back in 2008, the former has not hit production since the 70s. The report further adds that a deal might be signed in the next 3 to 6 months.
Mahindra had entered the two-wheeler business only in 2008 when they picked up the pieces of the Kinetic SYM partnership. Ever since the launch of the Gusto, with their first indigenously developed engine, the company has shown tremendous signs of improvements. With new brands coming in, Mahindra can use their in house R&D or utilise Peugeot’s experience to weave magic.
Their last motorcycle, the Mojo (read our review of the Mojo), has received a good response and things can only get better. Mahindra is also expected to confirm its plans about introducing the Peugeot brand in India next month!
