Brembo’s New India Joint Venture for ABS Tech

• Brembo will hold a 60% stake
• Assembling single-channel and dual-channel motorcycle ABS in Chakan

Brembo and Ningbo SAFE Brakes Systems have signed a joint venture to produce motorcycle ABS systems in India. This move has the potential for a long-term effect on two-wheeler safety in the country. The new company called BRSF Active Safety Solutions will focus on local assembly and supply of ABS for the Indian motorcycle market.

Brembo will hold a 60 percent majority stake in the joint venture while Ningbo SAFE Brakes Systems brings its experience from China’s two-wheeler ABS market. Operations will be based at a dedicated manufacturing facility in Chakan, Pune. The facility will be located next to Brembo India’s existing plant.

India is the world’s largest two-wheeler market with annual volumes running into the tens of millions. Yet, safety technology still varies widely across the market. Many commuter motorcycles use simpler braking hardware, while premium and performance motorcycles have moved towards better callipers, discs and dual-channel ABS. By setting up local ABS production, Brembo and Ningbo SAFE Brakes Systems have carefully aimed at the space where India’s next big two-wheeler safety upgrade is likely to happen.

This joint venture will offer both single-channel and dual-channel ABS solutions. Single-channel ABS is more relevant for lower-cost motorcycles where price sensitivity is high, while dual-channel ABS is better suited to larger motorcycles, faster commuters, premium bikes and touring machines.