Italian automotive company Piaggio, through its Indian arm, plans to launch two more models this year.

This includes its iconic model Vespa 946 which is currently undergoing homologation.

Homologation is the approval process of a vehicle after it goes through a rigorous testing process.

Ravi Chopra, Chairman and Managing Director, Piaggio Vehicles (India), said the company has positioned its Vespa range of two-wheelers in the premium category and continue to offer products that the discerning buyers prefer.

Following the launch of its Vespa LX last year, it introduced Vespa VX, a 125 cc four-stroke scooter here today. Both the scooters are in the premium category.

“We are not chasing numbers. The focus is on catering to buyers who see their aspirations for a premium scooter getting addressed. Thus far, we have sold more than 52,000 scooters since the launch last year,” he said.

Referring to their plans for Vespa, Chopra said, “They will bring more models from the Vespa stable into India. Following on two launches during the year, one probably by September and another in the fourth quarter, we will roll out two more models in India next year. The homologation process of 946 is likely to be completed within couple of months.”

COMMERCIAL VEHICLES

The company’s commercial vehicle business has been doing well.

“Last year, we closed with over two lakh vehicles and expect to continue the momentum. The sector, where we have three and four wheelers, continues to ëxpand,” he said.

Referring to the three-wheelers, he said the capacity has been increased to about three lakh units.

“There are some who believe that three-wheelers sales will come down. I believe that this segment will continue to grow,” he said.

>rishikumar.vundi@thehindu.co.in

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