Tag: takes

Hero MotoCorp CEO Niranjan Gupta Resigns; Vikram Kasbekar Takes on Role of Acting CEO

Post author By Mike Deny
Post date February 1, 2025
No Comments on Hero MotoCorp CEO Niranjan Gupta Resigns; Vikram Kasbekar Takes on Role of Acting CEO

Niranjan Gupta, the Chief Executive Officer of Hero MotoCorp Ltd, is resigning from his position “to explore new opportunities,” as announced by the largest two-wheeler manufacturer in India in an exchange filing on Friday, January 31, 2025.

The launch of Hero MotoCorp’s motorcycles, the Xtreme 250R and the Xpulse 210, at the Bharat Mobility Global Expo 2025 in New Delhi on January 17, 2025. (Atul Yadav/PTI)

Gupta’s final day in the office will be April 30, 2025, and effective May 1, 2025, Vikram Kasbekar, currently the Executive Director (Operations), will assume the role of Acting Chief Executive Officer, the company stated.

Also Read: Deliveries of the Hero Xpulse 210 are set to begin in March 2025. Everything you need to know

“Participating in the journey of Hero MotoCorp has been an incredibly fulfilling experience. I am thankful to Dr. Munjal & the Board of Directors for the honor of leading this remarkable company,” stated Niranjan Gupta. “Over my eight years at Hero, I have had the chance to collaborate with a talented team and contribute to the company’s ongoing success.”

“As I transition to new opportunities, I convey my best wishes to the entire Hero MotoCorp team for a promising and progressive future,” he added.

This announcement follows the company’s declaration in late December 2024 regarding its collaboration with Harley-Davidson to develop another new motorcycle and to launch additional variants of the Harley-Davidson X440, which was jointly created.

The X440 represents the initial outcome of the Hero-Harley partnership, which dates back to 2020 when Harley Davidson ceased local assembly in India due to low demand, effectively leaving Hero in charge of existing dealerships.

Also Read: Economic Survey advocates for stringent labeling regulations on ultra-processed foods

The newly appointed acting CEO, Vikram Kasbekar, expressed, “I am honored to undertake the role of Acting Chief Executive Officer at Hero MotoCorp. With over two decades of service within this remarkable organization, I am eager to collaborate closely with our talented team to foster ongoing growth and innovation. I am grateful for the confidence bestowed upon me by Dr. Munjal & the Board of Directors, and I am committed to guiding the company during this transitional phase. Together, we will build upon our strong legacy and continue to provide excellence to all our customers, partners, and stakeholders.”

In the meantime, Ram Kuppuswamy has been elevated to COO ‐ Manufacturing, and Ashutosh Varma will lead the India Business Unit as Chief Business Officer.

“Since joining Hero in 2017, Niranjan has bolstered our financial stability, established global partnerships, and laid the groundwork for the House of Strategy that will shape our future growth,” remarked Dr. Pawan Munjal, Executive Chairman of Hero MotoCorp. “His leadership has been crucial in guiding the company into new territories. I wish him all the best and great success in his future endeavors.”

Also Read: Hero XPulse 210 introduced at Auto Expo 2025. Key details for potential buyers

He also noted that Hero’s EV & Emerging Mobility Business Unit (EMBU) will evolve into a completely independent entity by February 1, 2025.

Jyoti Singh will take on the role of Deputy CHRO for the EV & Emerging Mobility Business Unit.

Tags Acting, CEO, Gupta, hero, Kasbekar, MotoCorp, Niranjan, Resigns, Role, takes, Vikram

Harley Davidson News

Watch: Vice President of Equatorial Guinea Takes His Harley Davidson for a Ride on the Highway

Post author By Mike Deny
Post date January 26, 2025
No Comments on Watch: Vice President of Equatorial Guinea Takes His Harley Davidson for a Ride on the Highway

Watch: Teodorin Obiang Nguema, the Vice President of Equatorial Guinea, takes his Harley Davidson motorcycle for a ride on a bustling highway.

The 56-year-old is recognized for his extravagant lifestyle and often showcases his vehicles on his official social media accounts.

This comes just days after Teddy uploaded a video of his grand entrance at an event in a Bugatti Chiron hypercar.

He has also shared footage of his stylish arrivals at official events in both a Rolls-Royce Phantom 8 sedan and the Cullinan SUV.

Teodorin Obiang Nguema, the Vice President of Equatorial Guinea, recently posted a video of himself enjoying a ride on his customized, eye-catching Harley Davidson Softail DeLuxe on a busy highway.

Known as Teddy, the 56-year-old Obiang is famous for his luxurious lifestyle and passion for supercars. He frequently showcases his impressive collection of vehicles on his official social media platforms.

This follows a recent video in which he showcased his arrival at an event in a $3 million Bugatti Chiron. He often posts videos of grand arrivals at official events in his Rolls Royce Phantom 8 sedan and the Cullinan SUV.

Teddy has held the position of first vice president since June 22, 2016. He is also the son of Teodoro Obiang Nguema Mbasogo, the President of Equatorial Guinea. While most African leaders favor the Mercedes S-Class and Mercedes-Maybach S-Class for their official transports, Teddy prefers to travel in his customized Rolls-Royces.

Tags Davidson, Equatorial, Guinea, Harley, Highway, président, Ride, takes, Vice, watch

Harley Davidson News

India Takes Steps to Protect Itself from Potential Trump Tariffs

Post author By Mike Deny
Post date December 19, 2024
No Comments on India Takes Steps to Protect Itself from Potential Trump Tariffs

New Delhi: India has initiated an extensive analysis by sector, developing multiple scenarios to brace for a potential increase in tariffs on goods exported to the United States during the Donald Trump administration, according to various sources familiar with the situation. “Different ministries and departments are evaluating a range of scenarios in anticipation of such a move by the US and exploring possible countermeasures,” one source stated.Also Read: Trump’s stark warning to India risks significant consequences

President-elect Trump stated on Tuesday that the US would introduce reciprocal tariffs on Indian products due to the high tariffs imposed by New Delhi on American goods. Experts suggest that India might need to reassess its import duties on specific items and could offer increased market access for certain American imports to alleviate Trump’s concerns.

Previously, the US has raised concerns regarding the high import duties on Harley Davidson motorcycles, as well as limited access for medical devices, equipment, and dairy products in India.

Addressing US Concerns

Officials assert that India’s most favoured nation (MFN)-weighted average import tariff is relatively low, approximately 5-6%. While select agricultural products encounter higher tariffs, even those are significantly lower than the rates outlined by the World Trade Organization (WTO). They note that most countries, including the US, apply elevated tariffs and various non-tariff barriers on agricultural goods. For instance, dairy products, fruits and vegetables, cereals, food preparations, and oils in the US face tariffs as steep as 130-190%.

One insider mentioned that any thorough evaluation of the impact or necessary measures can only occur after the Trump administration officially takes over on January 20.

Experts suggest that New Delhi has the option to impose retaliatory tariffs or approach the WTO while advocating for a strategic response.

“It makes sense to reconsider certain products for tariff adjustments to address US concerns,” remarked one expert who preferred to remain anonymous due to the sensitive nature of the issue. While tariffs are bound by WTO commitments or linked to MFN status rather than being country-specific, there is an opinion that a measured approach could be taken when evaluating the product list traded between India and the US.

“It is unfeasible for India to implement country-specific tariffs, as that would violate the most-favoured nation (MFN) principle,” stated Ajay Sahai, director general of the Federation of Indian Export Organisations (FIEO).

Tariff Review

Sahai believes that India can revisit certain tariff lines and strategize accordingly, even if it results in a slight duty loss on some products.

Nominations for ET MSME Awards are now open. The deadline for applications is December 15, 2024. Click here to submit your entry in one or more of the 22 categories and seize the opportunity to win a prestigious award.

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Tags India, Potential, Protect, Steps, takes, Tariffs, Trump

Harley Davidson News

Historic Family-Owned Harley-Davidson Dealership in the U.S. Changes Hands as New Group Takes Over

Post author By Mike Deny
Post date December 18, 2024
No Comments on Historic Family-Owned Harley-Davidson Dealership in the U.S. Changes Hands as New Group Takes Over

The longest-standing family-operated Harley-Davidson dealership in the United States has been sold after more than 70 years of successful operation.

The devoted owners, passionate about Harley, have passed on their legacy to a dealership group as they prepare for retirement.

Historic Family-Owned Harley-Davidson Dealership in the U.S. Changes Hands as New Group Takes Over — A Harley-Davidson dealership in Rock Hill, South Carolina, has been sold after 70 years of success
Credit: Google Maps

The store was the longest-running family-owned shop in the US
Credit: Getty

The Cox family has been at the helm of the Rock Hill shop in South Carolina, a suburb of Charlotte, North Carolina, since 1961.

However, motorbike enthusiast Carson Baker, a prominent figure in the automotive sector, finalized the purchase this past week.

Now, Jan Cox, one of the co-owners, looks forward to retirement and hopes that Baker will achieve the same level of success her family had.

“We had a remarkable journey serving riders from York County, Charlotte, Greenville, Myrtle Beach, and beyond,” Cox shared with PowerSports Business.

“We genuinely hope that the new owner receives the same warm welcome as we did while continuing this service.”

Cox expressed heartfelt gratitude to their customers and is eager to keep tabs on the family’s additional store in Asheboro, North Carolina.

“The loyalty and commitment you have shown us are deeply appreciated,” she noted.

“We are excited about what lies ahead for our Asheboro location.”

Recil Cox, the founder of the family enterprise, initially juggled his day job at a textile mill to keep the business afloat.

Once the Harley dealership began to turn a profit, Recil was able to devote himself to his passion project full-time.

‘What about the warranties?’ cry drivers after Harley-Davidson dealership closes – its nearest location is an hour away

“Finding three generations of family business ownership is rare these days,” remarked Stephen Cox, who manages the family’s second location in Asheboro.

“The unparalleled customer loyalty and a dedicated team that upholds both the Cox name and Harley-Davidson’s legacy are truly special.”

Baker has since rebranded the store as Dog House Harley-Davidson of Rock Hill and included it in his expanding dealership collection.

The new owner emphasized his passion for automotive sales and his drive to keep growing.

“We’re actively seeking more locations and are working on new deals,” he informed PowerSports Business in January.

“I live and breathe this industry. I work seven days a week, and I’m passionate about it.

“I’m incredibly proud of our team.”

Harley-Davidson closures in 2024

There are over 650 Harley-Davidson dealerships nationwide.

However, several stores have shut down for various reasons in 2024, often with little to no explanation.

Below is a list of some Harley-Davidson locations that have closed this year and the reasons, if any, cited for their closures:

The San Francisco location closed its doors in June after 110 years due to ‘chaos’ caused by new management.

Miracle City Harley-Davidson in Titusville, Florida, shut down in September without providing any reason.

Harley-Davidson’s historic location in New York City closed on September 28, with the owner referencing economic challenges.

Reiman’s Harley-Davidson dealership in Kewanee, Illinois, ceased operations in October after the owners sold the business to the Walter Brothers Harley Davidson dealership in Peoria, Illinois.

Additionally, the dealership in West Bend, Wisconsin, is temporarily closing for the season from November 2 until April 1, 2024.

Some Harley-Davidson shops are permanently closing, a trend that enthusiasts claim poses problems for bikers.

Other fans have celebrated following the release of new branded car accessories.

Additionally, there are opportunities for Harley fans to secure assistance in purchasing their dream motorcycle.