Today, some 60 million two-wheelers with internal-combustion engines are produced around the world each year. By 2020, the market is expected to grow to 110 million units. This is equal to average annual growth of around 5 percent. The Asian market is developing especially strongly.
In entering this market, Bosch is taking a global approach. The company has developed solutions for both affordable two-wheelers in Asia and high-performance bikes in Europe and North America. The electronic engine management system is at the core of this Bosch technology.
Europe: The European market comprises mainly high-performance motorcycles that represent sportiness and adventure. Motorcycling tends to be a leisure activity. Motorcycles are equipped with modern engine technology and sophisticated safety systems.
Asia: As early as 2020, four out of five new two-wheelers with internal-combustion engines will be sold in Asia. China is the exception: here, the market for two-wheelers is dominated by electric e-scooters.
Change in India: Two-wheelers with engine displacement under 250 cubic centimetres are a means of mass transportation in India. Vehicles must be cost-effective, at a price much lower than 1,000 euros, yet still have a high utility value. Many of these are still equipped with carburetor technology. However, this is changing: according to Bosch estimates, some 15 to 20 million two-wheelers featuring modern engine management technology will be sold in India in 2020. This technology reduces mobility costs and protects the environment.
Illustration: With its electronically-controlled fuel injection technology, Bosch says it is making motorcycles around the world more fuel efficient and is laying the foundation for the connected two-wheeler.