Royal Enfield is developing a new 250cc motorcycle platform, codenamed “V”, which will be positioned below the Hunter 350 and is expected to be priced between Rs 1.25-1.35 lakh. This new platform will utilize an engine sourced from Chinese motorcycle giant CFMoto, with which Royal Enfield is in advanced discussions to license the engine technology. The new engine will comply with current BS6 phase 2 standards and upcoming CAFE norms, and is designed to be compact, fuel-efficient, and adaptable to hybrid configurations.
The partnership between Royal Enfield and CFMoto is a technical collaboration, with no plans for re-badged models or joint ventures. Royal Enfield will retain its signature modern classic design and develop the bike’s suspension and chassis in-house. The company’s senior executives recently visited China to explore advanced powertrains, hybrid systems, and electronics, signaling its intent to leverage Asia’s advanced component ecosystem as it transitions to a tech-driven future.
The new 250cc platform marks Royal Enfield’s strategic move to capture the rapidly expanding entry-premium motorcycle segment, targeting first-time premium buyers and commuters upgrading from 100-150cc bikes. The bike is expected to feature classic Royal Enfield design cues, modern features such as ABS, LED lighting, and digital instrumentation, and will be priced competitively to appeal to a wider audience.
Royal Enfield plans to scale up production at its Chennai facility, achieving 85-90% localisation to maintain competitive costs and support India’s “Atmanirbhar Bharat” initiative. The 250cc platform plays a key role in the company’s bold ambition to double its annual production from 1 million to 2 million units by 2030. With this new platform, Royal Enfield aims to meet India’s looming fuel efficiency mandates and transition to a tech-driven future, while also expanding its presence in the global market.
The new 250cc motorcycle is expected to be a crucial model for Royal Enfield, as it will help the company to tap into the growing entry-premium motorcycle market and lay the groundwork for its first hybrid motorcycle in the future. With its focus on economy, technology, and design, the new Royal Enfield 250cc bike is likely to be a game-changer in the Indian motorcycle market.