Bajaj Auto MD Calls for Lower GST on Commuter Motorcycles
Rajiv Bajaj, Managing Director of Bajaj Auto, has urged the Indian government to reduce the Goods and Services Tax (GST) on commuter motorcycles from the current 28% to a more manageable 18%. He argues that the high tax rate, coupled with increasing regulations, is driving up the price of these essential vehicles, making them less accessible to consumers.
Bajaj highlights that two-wheeler sales have not yet recovered to pre-pandemic levels, and a lower GST rate could help stimulate demand. He points to ASEAN countries, where the equivalent GST on motorcycles is significantly lower, ranging from 8% to 14%.
While acknowledging the importance of stringent emission regulations, Bajaj believes the government should reconsider the high GST rate on commuter motorcycles. He suggests a rate of 12-18% would be more appropriate, balancing environmental concerns with affordability.
Bajaj Auto Unveils Powerful New Pulsar NS400Z
Coinciding with his call for lower taxes, Bajaj Auto unveiled its most powerful and feature-rich Pulsar motorcycle yet, the NS400Z. This new offering boasts a 400cc engine and is priced at Rs 1.85 lakh.
The NS400Z is positioned as a competitor to other mid-weight motorcycles like the Dominar 400, KTM 390 Duke, and Triumph Speed 400. It features a ride-by-wire throttle, switchable traction control, four ride modes, full LED lighting, a digital instrument cluster with navigation, and Bluetooth connectivity.
Bajaj Auto has sold over 1.8 crore Pulsars since the brand's launch in 2001, generating revenue of Rs 10,000 crore. The company reported a 35% year-on-year increase in net profit for the March quarter, reaching Rs 1,936 crore.