ACKO Drive Awards 2026: Royal Enfield Honoured as a TOTMs Hall of Fame Manufacturing Pioneer Honour

Midsize motorcycle specialist Royal Enfield was accorded the Hall of Fame Manufacturing Pioneer honour at the fourth edition of the Acko Drive Awards, on 19–20 December.

Born as a brand in 1901, Royal Enfield has grown to be among the world’s most enduring motorcycle brands.

From establishing operations in India in 1955, to producing the iconic Bullet for decades, to being a sick entity facing a potential shutdown and then to developing global product platforms such as the Himalayan and the 650 Twins, it’s been a remarkable ride for Royal Enfield.

The motorcycle maker has strengthened its capabilities through advanced technology centres in India and the UK, supported by modern, scalable manufacturing systems.

The result was the introduction of the 650 Twins; instantaneous hits among enthusiasts. While the J-platform set the tone for its ever popular 350 cc range, it was followed by a rev-happy 450 cc liquid-cooled engine; a new direction for the brand. 

This British-origin brand, at the cusp of its 125th year, is now a flagbearer for India with its motorcycles cruising in more than 80 countries, reflecting a commitment to quality, reliability, and accessible motorcycling. Its next frontier? The electric vehicle space.

Ashok Leyland, TVS Motor, Hyundai Motor India, BMW, and Rane Group were the other manufacturers to be inducted into the ACKO Drive TOTMs Hall of Fame as manufacturing pioneers.