Royal Enfield parallel-twin coming next year
Three new models using two new engine platforms | Future models to be developed in the UK | Legendary designer Pierre Terblanche recruited
ROYAL Enfield will launch at least three new models in 2016 including a parallel-twin, according to a source at firm’s UK importer.
The new models will use two new engine platforms which are in advanced stages of development.
‘There will be at least three of four new models in 2016 based around two new engine platforms,’ the source said.
‘There’s a new 410cc single-cylinder overhead cam and a parallel-twin.’
He said the capacity of the parallel-twin had not yet been confirmed by the factory. Rumours suggest it will be around 750cc.
He said one of the new 410cc machines would be a scrambler-style model.
Visordown revealed last week that Royal Enfield had trademarked ‘Himalayan’, pointing to a possible name for one of the new models.
The firm's Chief Executive Siddhartha Lal has announced plans for a new ‘technology centre' in Leciestershire, due to open later this year as part of moves to increase global production by 50%.
According to the UK importer, MotoGB, the UK operation will be involved in model development rather than production.
Our source said: ‘It will be a research and development facility. I’m sure design will be part of that process.’
Big names to join a newly assembled team include legendary former Ducati designer Pierre Terblanche.
The team is unlikely to work on the 2016 models as they are already too near completion but will develop future Royal Enfields, according to our source.
‘To do that we’ve taken on some serious people,’ he said. ‘Pierre Terblanche has been with Royal Enfield for a couple of months.’
Triumph’s former Project Manager, Simon Warburton, has also been recruited, as Royal Enfield’s Head of Product Planning and Strategy.
