Royal Enfield has confirmed that production of its popular Himalayan 450 and Guerrilla 450 motorcycles has stabilised after a brief slowdown earlier this year. The issue arose during the April–June period due to a shortage of rare earth elements, which are vital for certain performance components sourced from China. While the disruption affected output, the company has managed to overcome the challenge by introducing alternative materials, ensuring production is now back to normal.
Also Read: Yamaha MT-15 DLX Launched at ₹1.80 Lakh With New TFT Display and Fresh Colours
The Supply Challenge
The temporary disruption was linked to a shortage of rare earth magnets, a critical component used in sensors, alternators, and other electrical systems. These materials, though often associated with electric vehicles, also play a significant role in internal combustion engine (ICE) motorcycles, particularly high-performance models. According to Royal Enfield officials, the shortage forced a temporary pause in production for the 450cc platform, which includes the Himalayan, Guerrilla, and Scram models.
Data from the Society of Indian Automobile Manufacturers (SIAM) highlighted the impact: production of Royal Enfield’s 450cc motorcycles dipped to 3,836 units in June 2025, a notable drop compared to 6,568 units in June 2024 and 5,249 units in May 2025. Despite this setback, the company was quick to adapt and find solutions.
Alternative Materials Bring Stability
Speaking to investors, Eicher Motors MD and Royal Enfield CEO B Govindarajan praised the team’s efforts in quickly stabilising production. The company sourced alternative materials to replace the rare earth elements, ensuring that production could resume smoothly. This has now restored supply for the Himalayan 450 and Guerrilla, and Scram, which were temporarily affected.
“The team has done a very good job of bringing it back,” Govindarajan stated, adding that the company had anticipated the challenge and started working on alternative solutions months in advance. This proactive approach allowed Royal Enfield to overcome the supply chain hurdle faster than expected.
Also Read: 2025 Volvo XC60 Facelift Launched in India at ₹71.90 Lakh: Subtle Upgrades With Smarter Features
Future Plans: Flying Flea EV Still on Track
The rare earth issue came at a crucial time, as Royal Enfield prepares to launch its first electric motorcycle under the Flying Flea brand later this year. Despite the temporary production pause for its 450cc motorcycles, the company confirmed that the EV project remains on schedule.
To avoid similar challenges in the future, Royal Enfield and other EV manufacturers are exploring technologies that reduce dependence on rare earth materials. This includes magnet-free motor designs and the use of ferrite-based magnets, which are easier to source and less dependent on a single supply chain.
Final Thoughts – Himalayan 450 and Guerrilla
The quick recovery of production for the Royal Enfield Himalayan 450 and Guerrilla 450 demonstrates the brand’s resilience and preparedness in the face of global supply challenges. With alternative materials now in place and production back to normal, Royal Enfield is set to meet demand for its popular 450cc models. Meanwhile, anticipation is building for the company’s upcoming Flying Flea electric motorcycle, which could mark a significant step in the brand’s journey toward sustainable mobility.
Also Read: