While the auto sector stands on a thin ice struggling to survive the slowdown, Japanese two-wheeler maker, Suzuki Motorcycle India Pvt Ltd (SMIPL) is looking to strengthen its market presence in the country by focusing on motorcycle segment, thanks to growing demand from youth for 'thrill-riding'.

While launching the new Suzuki GIXXER SF 250 in Ahmedabad on Tuesday, Koichiro Hirao, Company Head, Suzuki Motorcycle India, said, "We aim to increase our motorcycle sales in India and achieve a double digit market share next year." The current market share is about seven per cent.

Of the total sales of 7.5 lakh units recorded for 2018-19, company sold about 60,000 units of motorcycles. This year, the company aims to sell about 1 lakh units of motorcycles.

The company recorded domestic sales of about 6.7 lakh units last year - including scooter models, while the remaining was exports. It aims to sell about 8.6 lakh units this year with exports of about 1.1 lakh units.

Devashish Handa, Vice President, SMIPL stated that the demand for high capacity motorcycles is rising with a gradual shift towards higher capacity motorcycles.

"In proportion, the share of higher capacity motorcycles is going up. Also there is an increased disposable income and larger young population looking for thrill-oriented riding experience, that is driving the sales for performance motorcycles," said Handa.

On the electric vehicle plans, Hirao stated that the R&D is underway for an EV two-wheeler, without divulging more details.

However, he added that the new launches will be a mix of scooters and motorcycles, but the thrust will remain more towards motorcycle as it looks to strengthen its position in this segment.

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