HOW TVS MOTORS WAS BORN: FROM BUSES TO BIKES

How TVS Motors Was Born: From Buses to Bikes

How TVS Motors Was Born: From Buses to Bikes

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While Yamaha started in the heart of Japan, let’s shift our focus to India—a land bursting with potential, but in the 1970s, lacking in personal mobility.


The story of TVS Motors begins much earlier, in 1911, when a visionary named T.V. Sundaram Iyengar founded a company called TV Sundaram Iyengar and Sons Ltd. in Madurai, Tamil Nadu. At that time, they operated a humble bus service and later expanded into vehicle servicing and logistics. Iyengar was among the first Indians to believe in organized, professional road transport.

From Transportation to Two-Wheelers


For decades, TVS built a reputation in the automobile industry—assembling vehicles, offering services, and creating strong logistics networks across South India.

But in the 1970s, with India's economy shifting and personal transportation becoming a major need, TVS made its biggest move.

In 1978, TVS set up a division called TVS Motor Company, focusing specifically on two-wheelers. Their first big leap came through a joint venture with Japan's Suzuki Motor Corporation in 1982.

This collaboration gave birth to some of the most loved bikes in Indian history:

  • TVS-Suzuki Supra

  • TVS-Suzuki Shogun

  • TVS-Suzuki Samurai


These bikes were known for their performance, power, and affordability—and quickly became household names.

Independence and Innovation


In 2001, TVS ended its partnership with Suzuki and launched its own independent brand identity—TVS Motor Company as we know it today.

From that moment on, TVS was on a mission to prove that Indian engineering could go head-to-head with the world. And they did just that.

Here’s how:

  • Launched India’s first 4-stroke motorcycle in 100cc segment: TVS Victor

  • Released performance-oriented bikes like the Apache RTR series (Apache RTR 160 4V FI)

  • Created stylish scooters like TVS Jupiter and TVS Ntorq 125

  • Entered electric mobility with the TVS iQube


TVS also became the first Indian company to enter the Dakar Rally, showcasing their off-road potential with TVS Racing.

TVS Today


Today, TVS is one of India’s leading two-wheeler manufacturers and exports motorcycles and scooters to more than 60 countries. Their bikes are known for being:

  • Durable and fuel-efficient

  • Stylish and sporty

  • Affordable with cutting-edge features


From public buses to personal bikes, TVS has come a long way. The journey from a transport company in colonial India to a global motorcycle brand is nothing short of inspiring.

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