Bajaj Auto has inaugurated a manufacturing plant at Manaus, Brazil, taking its presence to 100 countries where its vehicles are sold.

The new plant has an area of 9,600 square metres and has a production capacity of 20,000 units per year, operating on a single shift.

There are plans to expand the facility further in due course to accommodate an additional production capacity of up to 50,000 units per year.

Its strategic location in Manaus leverages the substantial fiscal benefits offered by the state as well as proximity to supply chains and major transportation hubs, said the company.

The Manaus plant will initially focus on manufacturing Dominar models and later will make Pulsar models.

At the inauguration, Rakesh Sharma, executive director of Bajaj Auto, said: “With the establishment of our plant in Brazil we have achieved a quantum shift in our local capability to fulfil demand. Our Dominar brand has received an outstanding reception since its launch 18 months ago. The new manufacturing capabilities will enable us to build a wider distribution network, introduce new products and meet the growing expectations of our customers.

“This plant also signals our commitment to Brazil, to building an ecosystem of partnerships and integrating further into the automotive industry. We are excited to be part of Brazil’s growth story and look forward to a prosperous future here.”

Ather unit

Ather Energy, an electric two-wheeler manufacturer, announced plans on Wednesday to set up its third manufacturing facility at Bidkin, Maharashtra. This new facility will manufacture both electric two-wheelers and battery packs.