The country's leading two wheeler manufacturer Bajaj Auto is all set to launch its new 100cc Discover from its Chakan plant near Pune, on July 17, hoping good market response to the product, leading to high growth rate in the coming year.

Mr Rajiv Bajaj, Managing Director, said: "The new Discover is extremely fuel-efficient and its mileage in actual road riding conditions is 80 km per litre compared to 65 kmpl in most other 100cc bikes." He said that its engine capacity and prices are attractive enough to entice a large number of customers.

The 100cc Discover would cost around Rs 42,000, and the firm hopes to achieve monthly sale target of 2,00,000 bikes each month in the domestic market for in the financial year 2009-10. Mr. Bajaj said: "It is my estimate that, in terms of sales and profits, this fiscal will be the best ever for Bajaj Auto."

The company intends beating Hero Honda's Splendor and Passion models that currently dominate the two-wheeler market with monthly sales of nearly 3,00,000 bikes, through its newly-launched 100cc Discover.

Mr. Bajaj further said the firm does not intend promoting the 100cc bike Platina, and would like to invest in brands. He added: "We have done the right thing by being a premium player. The Pulsar is already a strong brand and we will move down on the Discover and XCD."