New Delhi, Mar 19: High-powered motorcycle maker Royal Enfield on Thursday said it aims to double sales to 60,000 units in the next three years with latest products on an altogether new engine platform. The new product, to be introduced by the end of 2004, would be a 350-500cc motorcycle. Work on both - the motorcycle and the new platform - was on, he said.

Asked about the investment for the upcoming product and engine line, Lal said: "money for the new motorcycle and engine platform will be part of regular investment. We will spend Rs 3-4 crore on designing the new product while the chunk of investment will go for tooling and manufacturing". In terms of design, the new motorcycle would cater to young riders who wish to have powerful engine yet sleeker motorcycles, he said.

The Eicher group company is also in the process of developing a motorcycle 'International Bullet Electra' for the UK market.

Though overseas markets looked very promising, Royal Enfield would prefer to strengthen its position in the domestic market first, Lal said.

At present, the company ships motorcycles to the UK, US and Japan. Bureau Report