Posted on: Sep 3, 2025 | 3 mins | Written by: HDFC ERGO Team

TVS Motor: Brand History, Subsidiaries & Iconic Bikes

TVS Motor Brand History, Subsidiaries & Iconic Bikes

When most people think of buying a bike in India, the first name that comes to their mind is TVS Motor. This home-grown brand has become India’s third-largest two-wheeler manufacturer. Yet many of us do not know the fascinating story behind its success. TVS Motor products have provided reliable and affordable transportation solutions for millions of Indian families since the inception of the company.

TVS Motor at a Glance: Brand Legacy and Market Presence

TVS Motor Company is a globally renowned two and three-wheeler manufacturer, with four technologically advanced manufacturing units in Hosur, Mysuru and Nalagarh in India, and Karawang in Indonesia. It was founded in 1978 as a division of the TVS Group.

TVS Motor offers the largest range of two-wheelers, including motorcycles, mopeds, scooters and race-inspired bikes. As of 2024, the company has sold to over 50 million customers.

The brand has a global market presence, including Africa, the Middle East, Southeast Asia, Latin America and Central America. It is today a global player with exports to 80 countries.

A Ride Through Time: The History of TVS Motor

Here’s TVS Motor’s success timeline:

1911: TVS Group started as a local bus and freight service in Tamil Nadu.
1920s: Expanded into automobile distribution across Tamil Nadu.
1950s: Started manufacturing automobile components.
1960s: TVS Holdings Ltd. was formed, which focused on automotive components and establishing subsidiaries.
1978: Started a joint venture with Suzuki Motor Corporation and formed TVS Motor (initially named TVS-Suzuki).
2001: Suzuki Motor Corporation sold its stake to TVS, and the company was renamed to TVS Motor Company Ltd.
2007: Entered the three-wheeler market with the passenger carrier TVS King.
2016: Joined the premium motorcycle segment and expanded into international markets with the Apache RTR 200 4V.
2020: Launched its first electric scooter, the iQube Electric. Partnered with leading EV manufacturers, Delta Electronics and GreenCell Mobility, to develop more designs and types.

TVS Motor Motorcycle Lineup: Models That Define the Brand

Here’s a quick look at the TVS Motor products in the motorcycle segment:

Commuter Segment

● Sport and Star City +: Entry-level, fuel-efficient and reliable for daily use.
● Raider: Youth-focused and slightly sportier with modern design.
● Ronin: Offers a new-age riding experience, with advanced features and a retro look.

Performance Focused and Sports

● Apache Series (RTR & RR): Known for high performance and track-inspired styling, and popular among young riders.

Final Thoughts

TVS Motor’s diverse range of two-wheelers and design innovation has successfully placed the brand in the motorcycle market in India and abroad. Several two-wheeler models appeal to youths, seniors, performance enthusiasts and commuters alike. As a reliable bike manufacturer, TVS Motor products attract good third-party two wheeler insurance rates and claim support.

However, regardless of the brand or model, consider choosing a comprehensive two wheeler insurance policy to safeguard your long-term investment against fire, theft, accidental damage and natural calamities.

Disclaimer: The above information is for illustrative purposes only. For more details, please refer to the policy wordings and prospectus before concluding the sales.

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