The Indian automotive industry has shifted to BS6 emission norms from the start of this month. Still, a good majority of dealerships (across major vehicle categories) are left with unsold BS4 units that would be difficult to sell considering the present state of affairs.
At select showrooms across the country, Hero MotoCorp has introduced a discount of Rs 10,000 for its HF Deluxe BS4 and Splendor Plus BS4. BS4 variants of the budget commuter motorcycles were originally priced at Rs 39,900 and Rs 51,790 ex-showroom, respectively. If stocks are available at the local Hero MotoCorp dealership, interested buyers can confirm their booking for an amount of just Rs 200 (refundable). The offer lasts until the deadline to finish BS4 sales or stocks last.
Towards the end of last year, Hero MotoCorp launched the BS6 HF Deluxe at an ex-showroom starting price of Rs 55,925. It was the first 100cc motorcycle in the country to become BS6-compliant. The 97.2cc air-cooled fuel-injected motor makes just under 8bhp and around 8Nm of torque while mated to a 4-speed gearbox.
New BS6 Hero HF Deluxe
The BS6 Hero Splendor Plus (or Splendor+) was introduced about two months ago at Rs 59,600 ex-showroom. It employs the same 97.2cc FI single-cylinder power plant as the HF Deluxe BS6.
Initially, the deadline to update to BS6 emission norms was set as 31 March 2020. In view of the ongoing COVID-19 lockdown, FADA (Federation of Automotive Dealers Associations) had approached the Supreme Court of India seeking an extension by two months. However, the apex court granted permission only for 10 days post the lockdown but on a conditional basis which restricts sales to just 10% of BS4 units left with a dealer.
As India entered its third phase of COVID-19 lockdown protocols from 3 May 2020, automotive dealerships have gradually opened for business. Hence, the window to sell BS4 products extends to May 13. Meanwhile, Delhi NCR does not come under this provision and every new vehicle registered in the region should be compliant to BS6 emission norms.
Dealerships with unsold BS4 stock after the deadline have three options: (1) sell and register them as used products, (2) contact parent OEM for a buyback, or (3) send them for scrapping. The second option is the most feasible as losses would be minimal for dealerships while OEMs can utilise the old products as development platforms. In fact, Hero MotoCorp has already announced that it will be buying back unsold BS4 units.
Source
Source: Bike - rushlane.com
