Norton sold to TVS

Whether this will save the brand that went into receivership in January with more than £14 million (AU$28M approx.) in debts is yet to be confirmed but early indications are that TVS are committed to the future of Norton and will continue some or all of the models in the existing product lineup.

Announced on 17 April, the deal saw Norton Motorcycle Holdings Limited and Norton Motorcycles (UK) Limited sold for £16 million cash (AU$32M approx.) to a subsidiary of TVS Motor Company.

As well as Norton Motorcycle assets, TVS Motor Company have a licence to occupy the current production facilities at Hastings House until September. Whether production will remain in the UK after that date is unknown, but Sudarshan Venu, Joint Managing Director, TVS Motor Company, said Norton will “retain its identity” regardless of where future models are built.

"This is a momentous time for us at TVS Motor Company. Norton is an iconic British brand celebrated across the world and presents us with an immense opportunity to scale globally,” Venu said.

“Norton, with its exciting range of products, presents us with an immense opportunity to cater to the aspiration of discerning motorcycle customers around the world. We will extend our full support for Norton to regain its full glory in the international motorcycle landscape.

"Norton will continue to retain its distinctive identity with dedicated and specific business plans. TVS Motor will work closely with customers and employees in building the success and pre-eminence of the Norton Motorcycles brand and we look forward to growing together globally in the years to come."

While largely unknown outside their native India, TVS Group are a US$8.5 billion company with more than 90 companies under their control and are one of the country’s leading automotive component suppliers. In the motorcycle arena, TVS produce a range of two- and three-wheel models, mostly scooters in the sub-300cc class. Concerns over the quality of Nortons that may be produced under TVS Motor Company should be allayed by the fact they also manufacture BMW’s G310R and G310GS LAMS models for the global market.