Russian-owned but Italian-domiciled motorcycle brand MV Agusta has agreed a long-term strategic partnership with leading Chinese bike manufacturer Loncin, initially focusing on the development and production of a new family of MV Agusta 350-500cc products.
Commenting on the agreement, MV Agusta CEO Timur Sardarov said: “This strategic alliance is an important step to consolidate our vision for the future. Our target is to reaffirm leadership in the production of upper-premium motorcycles, while also enlarging our customer base by offering a broader range of products without compromising our distinctive design and performance. We are looking forward to grow with the right partners and the right products, making sure that our clients enjoy the larger choice of models, all of which share the same DNA and MV Agusta pedigree.”
This move is apparently seen as a major pillar in MV Agusta’s accelerated growth plan. According to Sardarov, his objectives are expanding access to the MV Agusta brand and driving incremental sales — both of these smaller machines and of the current MV Agusta 675-1000cc range. The 350-500cc bikes are due to reach MV Agusta dealerships by the end of 2021.
The partnership deal will also include MV Agusta designing and developing an entirely new family of middleweight and large-capacity products for VOGE, Loncin’s high-end brand in China, through sharing technology and engineering.
Loncin president Yong Gao added: “The conclusion of the strategic agreement is conducive to Loncin’s and MV Agusta’s joint response to the changes in global market demand and to the coordinated development of both sides. Loncin will use advanced manufacturing resources and Chinese market knowledge to help MV Agusta expand its product line and enhance product competitiveness. MV Agusta’s technology and advanced design experience of high performance motorcycles will support Loncin’s VOGE brand in becoming the market leader of premium motorcycles in China. I am looking forward to our strategic cooperation based on the principles of mutual benefit and success.”
Loncin also enjoys a close relationship with BMW Motorrad, for which it produces motorcycle engines and complete maxiscooters on a contract basis. It has long-term links with Kawasaki too. MV Agusta products were previously distributed in China by large-scale car and bike manufacturer Lifan. Presumably that tie-up is now defunct.
Pictured are the MV Agusta Brutale 1000 Serie Oro and Superveloce 800 Serie Oro limited series which the company said this week had sold-out only days after launch