16 February 2026
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8:10:45
Bangladesh's leading conglomerate PRAN-RFL Group has announced a strategic investment of Tk 500 crore over the next three years to enter the motorcycle and electric scooter market. This ambitious venture positions the company to manufacture both conventional motorcycles under the TVS brand and eco-friendly electric scooters under its proprietary RYDO brand at the Habiganj Industrial Park.
The PRAN-RFL motorcycle investment represents a significant diversification for the conglomerate, which has built its reputation in food processing, plastics, and consumer goods. According to RN Paul, Managing Director of RFL Group, the decision reflects changing consumer preferences where motorcycles have evolved from simple transportation into lifestyle products, particularly among Bangladesh's youth population.
The comprehensive three-year plan allocates Tk 400 crore specifically for TVS motorcycles local production Bangladesh PRAN-RFL, while Tk 100 crore has been earmarked for the RYDO electric scooter initiative. This strategic allocation demonstrates the company's commitment to both conventional and electric vehicle segments.
The motorcycle factory Habiganj will serve as the production center for both TVS motorcycles and RYDO electric scooters. Work on establishing the assembly and manufacturing plant at the Habiganj Industrial Park is set to begin soon, with full-scale operations expected to commence within 2026.
The PRAN-RFL Habiganj factory is designed with substantial production capabilities:
These Habiganj bike factory jobs will significantly boost the local economy and provide skilled employment opportunities in manufacturing, assembly, quality control, and distribution networks across Bangladesh.
Under a recently signed PRAN-RFL TVS MoU 2026, the conglomerate has taken over the manufacturing and distribution of TVS motorcycles in Bangladesh. TVS Motor Company, one of India's leading two-wheeler manufacturers, previously had its motorcycles imported and distributed by Rangs Motors through TVS Auto Bangladesh Ltd. However, the agreement between Rian Motors and TVS Motor expired in September 2025 and was not renewed.
PRAN-RFL plans to introduce "Made in Bangladesh" TVS motorcycles with technical support from the Indian manufacturer. The TVS Apache local assembly initiative will focus on popular models including:
Through improved braking systems, new models, and enhanced after-sales service, PRAN-RFL aims to restore TVS to its former market-leading position. Marketing of TVS motorcycles through the RFL distribution network began in late February 2026, with TVS distributor RFL Bangladesh leveraging its extensive retail presence.
While specific PRAN-RFL bikes pricing has not been officially announced, the company emphasizes affordability and value. Industry sources suggest that locally manufactured TVS motorcycles will be competitively priced to capture market share in Bangladesh's rapidly growing Tk 7,000-8,000 crore motorcycle market, which is expanding at 16-17 percent annually.
The RYDO scooter represents PRAN-RFL's forward-looking approach to sustainable transportation. Production and assembly of RYDO electric scooters have already commenced at the RYDO electric scooter Habiganj plant 2026 with an initial investment of Tk 50 crore.
RN Paul has set an ambitious target: offering high-quality RYDO electric scooters at approximately Tk 50,000 by 2027. This price point would make electric two-wheelers accessible to Bangladesh's middle class, potentially revolutionizing urban mobility.
Currently, about 20 percent of RYDO components are manufactured locally. However, the Habiganj 500 million RYDO investment plan includes an additional Tk 50 crore to achieve nearly 100 percent localization within a year, ensuring affordability through reduced import dependencies.
Addressing one of the primary barriers to electric vehicle adoption, PRAN-RFL is installing RYDO EV charging stations at its retail outlets in partnership with Glafit Bangladesh Limited, a Japan-backed startup. This charging infrastructure development will support widespread EV adoption and provide convenient charging access for RYDO scooter owners across the country.
Bangladesh's two-wheeler market presents substantial growth opportunities for the PRAN-RFL Group 500 crore motorcycle venture details:
Electric scooters, while currently a niche segment, show tremendous potential. Countries like India, China, and Vietnam have demonstrated strong adoption rates, and Bangladesh possesses similar demand potential. Rising fuel costs and environmental concerns are accelerating interest in electric two-wheelers.
Leveraging RFL's extensive experience in plastics, metals, and consumer goods manufacturing, PRAN-RFL sees significant opportunities in backward linkage industries. The company plans to manufacture components locally including:
This Tk500 crore three-year plan extends beyond assembly to comprehensive manufacturing capabilities, reducing import dependence and creating a robust automotive component ecosystem in Bangladesh.
PRAN-RFL's success in consumer goods provides a strong foundation for establishing a modern nationwide marketing network. The company recognizes that after-sales service is critical in Bangladesh's competitive two-wheeler market, where customer support often determines brand loyalty.
The first year will focus on:
Industry insiders view the PRAN-RFL motorcycle investment as a strategic move that could reshape Bangladesh's two-wheeler landscape. The company's proven track record in manufacturing, distribution, and after-sales support across consumer goods segments positions it well for success in the automotive sector.
Mahmudur Rahman, Chief Operating Officer of RFL's bike business, emphasized the company's commitment to quality and affordability. The combination of TVS's technical expertise and PRAN-RFL's manufacturing capabilities and distribution network creates a formidable partnership.
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