Royal Enfield's Leicestershire R&D facility to work on international models

28/09/2016 - 10:48 Royal Enfield Himalayan, Royal Enfield Anjan Ravi

The facility will not manufacture any products though.

MotorCycleNews reports that Royal Enfield's Leicestershire R&D facility will be operational by early-2017. In May this year, the company announced that it will invest INR 600 crores towards product development and setting up of two technical centres, in Leicestershire, UK and Chennai, India.

Royal Enfield Himalayan white side launched — The Royal Enfield Himalayan was the company's only major launch in 2016. However, new products are on the anvil.

The investment will also go towards enhancing manufacturing capacity and market development activities across geographies, Eicher Motors Ltd Managing Director and CEO Mr. Siddhartha Lal, said.

Though the Leicestershire facility will not see any manufacturing, the "evolution of Royal Enfield motorcycles for international markets will take place" from this base, the MotorCycleNews report states. The Leicestershire facility could be instrumental in the adaptation and development of Royal Enfield's forthcoming 600-650 cc twin-cylinder motorcycle, which is aimed at markets in the United States and Europe.

Royal Enfield store in Thailand — Royal Enfield opened many a brand store in international locations such as Thailand, Paris and Madrid, while expanding its presence in the UK.

Though details on the motorcycle are scarce, reports state that it will be a cruiser, and will compete with the likes of Harley Davidsons and Triumphs. With this product, Royal Enfield hopes it will get closer to becoming the world’s number one motorcycle maker in the mid-size category (200-750 cc).

Also read: Royal Enfield motorcycles to receive new engine with more mileage

Royal Enfield have opened a new store this week at Thatto Heath in St Helen’s, Merseyside, UK, in an attempt to expand their dealership network in the UK.

[Source - MotorCycleNews]