More stories

  • in

    2024 Hero Karizma 210cc Launch Planned – Pulsar 200 Rival

    As opposed to the 223cc air-cooled engine with 20 bhp in its pocket, upcoming Hero Karizma with a liquid-cooled 210cc engine will be more potentImage for illustration purpose onlyIndian motorcycle manufacturers seem to be going back to their roots. Products that seem to be the next big thing, often disappoint where sales are concerned. Products that they replace, often come off as the more prominent and popular. We always crave what we can’t have, right? We observed this pattern with Pulsar 220F re-launch. Now, Hero is at it as well.Remember the Karizma series of faired motorcycles from Hero. How can you not? For, they were so memorable. We’re not talking about facelifted models launched in 2014, but the OG Karizma R and Karizma ZMR. Get ready to hear about them again, as they are reportedly making a grand comeback with a new liquid-cooled 210cc engine.Hero testing a new fully faired motorcycle – New Karizma?2024 Hero Karizma New Gen – 210cc Engine With Liquid CoolingEver since they were launched, Karizma series offered a lot of bang for the buck and were some of the most sought-after in its segment, rivaling Pulsar 220. Hero priced them right and even marketed them right. Bollywood star Hritik Roshan even nullifies a freaking tornado in a Karizma ZMR. I remember this because it was effective and memorable marketing.Facelifted models designed by EBR (Erik Buell Racing) were the sole holes in the ship as they single-handedly took down Karizma brand into an abyss. Hero did launch Xtreme 200S, which was supposed to be Karizma’s replacement, but really wasn’t. Now, Hero is set to bring in a new platform on which the upcoming Karizma will be based.Hero Xtreme 300S Fully Faired Motorcycle?We’re talking about a brand new frame, housing a brand new 210cc liquid-cooled engine and coupled to a brand new 6-speed gearbox. Exact specifics about this new engine are not yet out. But 25 bhp of power and 30 Nm should be reasonably adequate for this motorcycle. It would be launched as a fully faired motorcycle. Good thing about the upcoming 2024 Hero Karizma lineup is they are reportedly being designed with inspirations from OG Karizma series and not facelifted models. Phew!More Tech, More Power – Faster Than Ever BeforeGiven that Hero Karizma line represented value for money in the past, competitive pricing is likely to be the main strength. In favour of competitive pricing, Hero might skimp on USD forks and other fancy hardware like slipper clutch, ride-by-wire and more. However, we should expect disc brakes at both ends with dual-channel ABS (at least as an option).LED lighting, Bluetooth connectivity with turn-by-turn navigation, side stand sensor with engine cut off are features that are highly likely to make it to production. Elements like 6-speed gearbox, oil-cooling and USD front forks are firsts for any production-spec Hero MotoCorp offerings. It might be launched around the all-important festive season. 2024 Karizma price could be in the range of Rs 1.5 lakh.We really hope Hero would install the same engine in Xpulse 200 as well, breathing new life into an already potent platform. With 25 bhp and 30 Nm, Hero Xpulse would absolutely fly in trails and off-roading situations. We are likely to see more “KariPulse” too, plonking this new 210cc engine in Xpulse chassis.Source More

  • in

    Hero MotoCorp Price Hike Apr 2023 – Optimistic About Growth In Rural Markets

    Hero MotoCorp announces price revision for motorcycles and scooters with OBD2, wef April 1, 2023Image – Jilani HeroLeading two-wheeler manufacturer, Hero MotoCorp announced a price revision of some of its motorcycles and scooters from April 1, 2023. This revision is due to the cost increase associated with the mandatory transition to On-board diagnostics (OBD) 2, a more advanced diagnostic system for vehicles.OBD 2 is a more advanced diagnostic system for vehicles, which is mandatory for all new vehicles sold in India from April 1, 2023. Implementation of this system requires the use of additional inputs. This has increased the cost of production for the company.Hero MotoCorp commits to providing financing solutions for customersHero MotoCorp has committed to providing financing solutions to help ease the impact of the price hike on its customers. This commitment is expected to maintain customer loyalty and prevent the price hike from negatively impacting sales figures. While the price revision may be a short-term setback for consumers, implementation of OBD 2 is expected to have long-term benefits for vehicle health.But naturally, cost of production has increased due to the use of advanced technology and additional components required for OBD 2. Hero MotoCorp’s price revision is pegged at about 2 percent, and will vary by specific models and markets. Exact models affected and to what extent are not currently specified.Cost increase due to mandatory transition to On-board diagnostics 2 (OBD 2)Despite the price revision, Hero MotoCorp is optimistic about the growth prospects of the two-wheeler industry in rural markets. Rural markets in India have been witnessing robust demand, which is a strong indicator of healthy crops. This growth momentum is expected to continue into the upcoming festive season towards the latter half of the fiscal year.It is worth noting that the cost increase due to the OBD 2 transition is not unique to Hero MotoCorp. Other automobile manufacturers in India are also expected to revise their prices upwards due to the same reason. Rising commodity prices and increasing input costs continually impact vehicle price hikes.Price revision not expected to negatively impact sales figuresThis price revision is a necessary step to maintain profitability and sustain the growth of the two-wheeler industry. While the impact on customers may be modest, Hero MotoCorp’s focus on financing solutions and growth momentum in rural markets are positive markers. And are expected to mitigate any potential negative impact and sustain the growth of the two-wheeler industry. More

  • in

    Hero Splendor 125cc XTEC Launch Price Rs 83k – 68 Kmpl Mileage

    The 125 cc engine on Hero Super Splendor XTEC is shared with Glamour XTEC, makes 10.7 bhp and 10.6 Nm and comes mated to a 5-speed gearbox2023 Hero Splendor 125cc XTECBeing the largest motorcycle manufacturer is not easy and Hero MotoCorp knows that very well. To retain that position, the company has to continually evolve and search for logical upgrades to keep its product lineup up to date. In that regard, Hero is taking a holistic approach by offering its XTEC suite of features to more and more vehicles.Hero Splendor 125cc XTEC PricesAfter offering XTEC on 100cc offerings like Splendor+, Hero has turned its gaze on Super Splendor, a 125cc offering. Super Splendor XTEC sits above Passion XTEC, a 110cc motorcycle. Prices start from Rs. 83,368 for drum brake variant and go till Rs. 87,268 for disc brake variant (both prices ex-sh).2023 Hero Splendor 125cc XTECThe motorcycle has been spotted at dealers. In the grand scheme of things under Hero’s lineup, Super Splendor XTEC sits beside Glamour XTEC with the same 124.7 cc engine. This engine has a bore of 52.4 mm and a stroke of 57.8 mm. It is capable of kicking out 10.7 bhp of power at 7500 RPM and 10.6 Nm of torque at 6000 RPM. Mated to a 5-speed gearbox, Super Splendor promises a fuel efficiency figure of 68 km/l.Targeting tech-savvy youngsters and first first-time motorcycle buyers, Hero MotoCorp promises ‘Super’ power, mileage, comfort and Super punch and style from its Super Splendor. Now that connectivity features along with more upmarket elements like a fully-digital instrument console adds a dash of futuristic appeal to this commuter.2023 Hero Splendor 125cc XTECXTEC suite of features from Hero MotoCorp includes a fully digital speedometer, low fuel indicator, service reminder, malfunction indicator and more essential utilities. Connectivity features with XTEC suite include Bluetooth pairing, call alert and SMS alert and more.New Splendor DesignComplementing its new connectivity features, Hero Splendor 125cc XTEC comes equipped with an LED headlamp, LED position lamp, and attractive graphics that are likely to appeal to the target audience. Adding to its appeal, is Hero’s wide-spread dealer and service network across length and breadth of India and brand value and resale value that Hero products usually command.Componentry includes an optional disc brake at front, rear drum brake, telescopic front forks, twin shock absorbers, alloy wheels finished in black, comfortable rider triangle and more. It primarily rivals Honda’s CB Shine 125cc and TVS Raider, which gets an even modern 5” TFT panel with GPS and more goodies.Ranjivjit Singh, Chief Growth Officer (CGO), Hero MotoCorp, said, “Hero MotoCorp has brought the finest range of cutting-edge, technologically advanced XTEC products in its portfolio of motorcycle and scooters and has created a distinct place for itself among riding enthusiasts in the country. And, with the introduction of the Super Splendor in XTEC avatar, we aim to redefine the experience in the 125cc segment. We are confident that the iconic Super Splendor in its new version is going to add to the growing appeal of our XTEC range of two-wheelers. With this product, we are presenting a whole package to our customers, that scores on connectivity, convenience and design.” More

  • in

    Hero And Zero Join Hands – New Premium Electric Motorcycles

    Hero MotoCorp and Zero Motorcycles Collaboration for Premium Electric Motorcycles – Accelerating Transition to Electric MobilityHero and Zero join handsHero MotoCorp, the world’s largest motorcycle manufacturer, and California-based premium electric motorcycle and powertrain manufacturer, Zero Motorcycles announced their collaborative business intent a few months earlier. With focus on new premium electric motorcycles, necessary agreements have been signed. No doubt, this collaboration is essential for the future of Hero MotoCorp’s electric mobility outreach. Both companies aim to transform the EV riding experience and accelerate electric mobility transition in India and other global markets.Brand growth for Hero MotoCorp is increasingly pointing to new segments for the brand. This is a stark departure from its reputation as a trusted mass market motorcycle manufacturer. Development progress can be seen in the 421cc engine being evaluated for its Xpulse 420cc product lineup.Hero MotoCorp – Advancing Electric Mobility in India and BeyondHero MotoCorp is a giant in manufacturing, sourcing, and marketing. Zero Motorcycles is known for its expertise in developing powertrains and electric motorcycles. Their collaboration will benefit both companies by combining their respective strengths. Tapping into these strengths streamlines processes from the word go. Most essentially it saves essential time to help get into a segment/space as an early mover. For Hero, this is the premium electric motorcycle segment.Currently Hero Motocorp’s EV market strengths are focused on the VIDA brand. Having launched its first EV, VIDA V1 scooter, and public charging infrastructure in Bengaluru, Delhi, and Jaipur. About 300 charging points are set up for public use.Equity Investment in Zero Motorcycles: A Strategic Move by Hero MotoCorpIn September 2022, Hero MotoCorp’s board approved an equity investment of up to US$60 million in Zero Motorcycles. This investment is significant and highlights the importance of this collaboration. Projections today emphasise that the future of mobility lies in electric vehicles. And Hero MotoCorp and Zero Motorcycles could lead the way considering the magnitude of monthly sales Hero is responsible for. They have a range of initiatives in place to advance electric mobility and transform the riding experience.Zero Motorcycles’ technology, combined with traditional motorcycle design keeps riding experience at the forefront of design synergies. Hero MotoCorp is committed to introducing remarkable, innovative products that offer exceptional value and performance-based fun in riding. Royal Enfield has made a strategic investment in Stark Future SL, a Spanish electric motorcycle manufacturer. Business fortitude is key in tapping into what the future of mobility will shape into in a few short years.Milestones in Sustainable Clean Technology: Hero MotoCorp and Zero Motorcycles’ CollaborationZero Motorcycles’ partnership with Hero MotoCorp is a significant milestone for sustainable clean technology in the mobility space. Zero Motorcycles will accelerate the transition to electric mobility in India and other global markets where Hero does business. The scope of this collaboration aligns with Hero’s goals of improved exports in existing and new markets.Pawan Munjal, Chairman & CEO, Hero MotoCorp, said “Our partnership with Zero Motorcycles is a significant milestone in our journey towards ushering in an era of sustainable clean technology in the mobility space. With Zero as our partner, we look forward to accelerate the transition of electric mobility in India and across our global markets.” More

  • in

    2023 Hero Super Splendor XTEC BS6 II Launched – New Features, Colour

    New Super Splendor XTEC BS6 Phase II gets LED headlamp, new colour, full digital instrument cluster and a range of cosmetic touch-ups2023 Hero Super Splendor XTEC BS6 II2023 Hero Super Splendor XTEC BS6 Phase II has been launched. First units have started arriving at dealerships. Users can expect an improved overall experience, as the bike packs in a comprehensive range of premium updates.New Super Splendor XTEC BS6 Phase II is expected to be priced higher than the outgoing model. The updates should allow for improved competencies against rivals such as Honda Shine, TVS Raider and Bajaj CT 125X.2023 Hero Super Splendor XTEC BS6 IISuper Splendor XTEC BS6 Phase II – what’s new?Among the most noticeable updates are the LED headlamp and LED DRL. It’s a 2-level LED headlamp with integrated low beam and high beam. The two sections of the headlamp are separated by the LED DRL placed in between. The LED DRL has an always-on feature, which means it is activated as soon as the keys are turned on. The engine is not required to be turned on for the LED DRL to work.Other lighting pieces such as turn indicators and tail lamp continue to have halogen bulbs. With the updated lighting at front, the headlamp cowl and visor have also been updated. Another big improvement comes in the form of a full digital instrument console. It appears to be the same unit, as seen with Splendor Plus XTEC variant. Take a look at the detailed walkaround by Biker Mjk 2.[embedded content][embedded content]The digital speedometer has Bluetooth connectivity and can be used for call and SMS alerts when paired with the user’s smartphone. Users can see a range of information such as real time mileage and indication for side stand, low fuel, high beam and i3S.With the change in lighting setup and new full digital speedometer, the wiring has also changed on the new Super Splendor XTEC BS6 Phase II model. Spaces around the digital speedometer have been updated and there’s a USB charging port as well.In terms of cosmetic updates, there’s a new colour and updated graphics and stickering. The Super Splendor logo on the fuel tank has a 3D design. Exhaust pipe has been updated and it is now a slimmer unit in comparison to the earlier model. Aural experience also seems to have been improved.2023 Hero Super Splendor XTEC BS6 IISuper Splendor XTEC BS6 Phase II performanceEngine is the same as earlier, with the only difference that it has been updated to comply with BS6 Phase II emission norms. The bike is powered by a 124.7cc air-cooled motor that generates 10.7 bhp of max power and 10.6 Nm of peak torque. It is mated to a 5-speed gearbox. New Splendor XTEC supports E20 ethanol-blend fuel, which makes it future-ready. It is likely that relevant tweaks have been incorporated in the engine to make it E20 ready.While official details are not available right now, Hero Super Splendor XTEC BS6 Phase II could deliver mileage of around 60+ kmpl. In heavy-traffic usage, mileage could be around 50+ kmpl. Prices will be announced in coming days. More

  • in

    Hero MotoCorp Sales Feb 2023 – Splendor, Passion, Destini, Maestro

    Hero MotoCorp sales increased both in terms of YoY and MoM and across domestic sales and exports in February 2023New Hero SplendorHero MotoCorp has reported a YoY growth of 10.11 percent in February 2023. Sales (domestic + exports) stood at 3,94,460 units in the past month, up from 3,58,254 units sold in Feb 2022. Even as the company reported a 15.34 percent growth in domestic sales to 3,82,317 units in Feb 2023 from 3,31,462 units sold in Feb 2022, exports dipped significantly. The company’s exports which had stood at 26,792 units in Feb 2022 fell 54.68 percent to 12,143 units in the past month.Hero Motorcycle sales increased 9.87 percent in Feb 2023 to 3,71,854 units from 3,38,454 units sold in Feb 2022 while Scooter sales which had stood at 19,800 units in Feb 2022 improved by 14.17 percent to 22,606 units in the past month. Top selling motorcycles from Hero MotoCorp include Splendor, HF Deluxe, Passion, Xpulse, Xtreme, etc. In the scooter department, Hero has Maestro, Destini as well as the new Xoom and Vida electric scooter.Hero MotoCorp Sales Feb 2023On a MoM basis, Hero MotoCorp sales improved by 10.59 percent from 3,56,690 units sold in Jan 2023. Domestic sales were higher by 9.41 percent from 3,49,437 units, while exports surged 67.42 percent from 7,252 units shipped in Feb 2023. MoM sales improved in the case of motorcycles by 11.54 percent but dipped 1.93 percent for scooters.Motorcycle sales in Jan 2023 had stood at 3,33,638 units relating to a 38,216 unit volume growth and 93.54 percent share. Scooter sales on the other hand had been at 23,052 units in Jan 2023 relating to a 446 unit MoM volume de-growth.Hero MotoCorp Sales Feb 2023Hero MotoCorp YTD SalesOn a year to date basis, Hero MotoCorp sales improved by 7.01 percent. Total sales (domestic + exports) which had stood at 44,93,996 units in FY 2022 improved to 48,09,204 units in FY 2023 period. There was growth seen in the case of domestic sales by 10.06 percent to 46,53,063 units in FY 2023 from 42,27,762 units sold in FY 2022.Exports on the other hand dipped 41.35 percent to 1,56,141 units in FY 2023 from 2,66,234 units shipped in FY 2022. This was a 1,10,093 unit volume de-growth with exports commanding a 3.25 percent share as against domestic share of 96.75 percent.YTD growth was seen both in the case of motorcycles and scooters by 6.45 percent and 15.07 percent to 44,73,260 units and 3,35,944 units respectively. There had been 42,02,044 units sold in domestic markets in FY 2022 relating to a volume growth of 2,71,216 units and 93.01 percent share. Exports stood at 2,91,925 units in FY 2022 with a 43,992 unit volume growth and share percentage of 6.99.New Hero Scooters Increase SalesThe new Xoom 110cc scooter has played a major part in sales in the past month. The Xoom that rivals the Honda Dio in its segment is presented in three variants and is available from Rs 68,599 onwards.Hero MotoCorp has commenced sales of its electric scooter under Vida brand in cities of Delhi, Bengaluru and Jaipur. Plans are afoot to introduce the e-scooter in other cities as well in the next fiscal. Hero MotoCorp VIDA V1 electric scooter is offered in two variants Pro and Plus. More

  • in

    New Hero Rally Motorcycle Debuts – Underpin Xpulse 420cc? (Himalayan Rival)

    Hero’s new rally bike is distinguishable with its new liquid cooled engine, different chassis and longer wheelbaseNew Hero Rally MotorcycleAt the ongoing INRSC (Indian National Rally Sprint Championship) in Bengaluru, Hero MotoCorp team is racing an entirely new machine. The new bike is in addition to the race-spec XPulse 200 4V Rally, that is also participating in the event.Hero has two of its racers riding the new rally bike, whereas 3 racers are using the race-spec XPulse 200 4V Rally. Clearly, this event is being used as a testbed to evaluate the overall potential of the new rally bike. Hat tip to Dna Rods for sharing the update.New Hero Rally Bike At INRSCHero’s new rally bike has participated in Group A category, which is for 400cc and above capacity bikes. This largely confirms Hero’s plans for the future. It is not surprising, as there’s significant growth in the middleweight segment. It is no longer a niche market space, rather, it is going more and more mainstream with time. The younger generation rising in affluence, coupled with a wide network of newly minted roads, has resulted in significant demand for big bikes.Hero’s new 400cc or above capacity rally bike will underpin the company’s upcoming ADV. The latter will rival the likes of Royal Enfield Himalayan, KTM 390 ADV, etc. Hero’s new 400cc-450cc platform will spawn other products as well such as a dual-sport bike and Xtreme sports bike. Hero’s 400cc bikes could be a strong challenger to Royal Enfield, as Hero has capabilities to match RE’s primary USPs such as performance and affordability.New Hero Rally MotorcycleRumours suggest that the engine will be of 420cc capacity and is likely to be called Xpulse 420cc upon launch next year. Some of the key highlights of Hero’s new 400cc rally bike include a flat headlamp casing with LED light, flat handlebar with brace pad, knuckle guards, raised front fender, fortified front forks, wire-spoke wheels, knobby off-road tyres, compact fuel tank, slim seat design and underseat exhaust.At rear, the bike has monoshock suspension. This bike will be a bit challenging for smaller riders due to its tall seat height. It explains the extra-long side stand that the bike utilizes. Hero’s 400cc rally bike has disc brakes at both ends.Hero new 420cc bike performance, specsHero’s new 420cc middleweight bike’s performance numbers will be close to that of its rivals. For example, upcoming Royal Enfield Himalayan 450 is expected to deliver around 35 bhp and 40 Nm. Hero will be looking to launch its 400cc range as soon as possible. Test mules have been spotted earlier at multiple locations.Hero Moto factory rider Yuva KumarHero’s rally bikes have proved their mettle across various national and international events. For example, Hero’s motorsport team recently registered its best ever performance at Dakar 2023. Achievements include two stage wins, a top-10 overall finish and a stage podium. Just like its race-ready 200cc platform, Hero’s new 420cc bikes are expected to deliver an exhilarating performance. It will be a lot more fun, as there will be more power and torque and possibly a range of new hi-tech features. More

  • in

    Hero Sales Breakup Jan 2023 – Splendor, Vida Electric, XOOM, Destini

    Hero MotoCorp saw the Splendor most in demand in domestic markets while the HF Deluxe was the most exported in Jan 2023Hero Vida Electric ScooterHero MotoCorp, the largest two wheeler manufacturer in the world, has seen lower domestic sales and exports in the past month. Sales dipped 2.56 percent in domestic markets while it was exports that saw an even higher de-growth at 66.75 percent YoY.Domestic sales stood at 3,49,426 units in Jan 2023, down 2.56 percent from 3,58,607 units sold in Jan 2022. This was a 9,181 unit volume de-growth. The company introduced the Xoom scooter at the end of January 2023. This 110cc scooter, which targets a younger segment of buyers in the country, could push up sales in the months ahead.Hero MotoCorp Sales Breakup Jan 2023Hero MotorCorp had two of its bikes – Splendor and HF Deluxe in top form in domestic markets. These two bikes which featured at No. 1 and 4 on this list of top 10 best-selling motorcycles in India in Jan 2023 commanded a market share of over 50 percent.Hero Splendor commanded a 74.93 percent share on this list with 2,61,833 units sold in Jan 2023, up 25.72 percent from 2,08,263 units sold in Jan 2022. HF Deluxe sales dipped 44.32 percent YoY to 47,840 units, down from 85,926 units sold in Jan 2022. This was a 38,086 unit volume de-growth. Increased demand was noted for the Hero Destini 125cc in Jan 2023. Sales improved to 10,975 units in the past month, up 259.95 percent over 3,049 units sold in Jan 2022.Hero MotoCorp Sales, Exports – Jan 2023Thereafter, every model in the company portfolio suffered YoY degrowth in Jan 2023. Glamour sales dipped 60.09 percent to 9,766 units from 24,473 units sold in Jan 2022 while sales of Hero Pleasure also fell by 44.27 percent to 7,354 units, down from 13,195 units sold in Jan 2022.Domestic sales of Hero Passion (3,601 units), Maestro (3,008 units), Xpulse 200(2,427 units) also suffered YoY de-growth while there were 1,183 units of the new Xoom scooter sold last month. Xtreme 160/200 sales also fell by 67.75 percent to 989 units from 3,067 units sold in Jan 2022 while Vida sales were at 450 units. Hero Vida electric scooter was launched in October 2022 marking the company’s foray into the electric two wheeler segment. Offered in Pro and Plus variants, the scooters offer a range of 165 kms and 143 kms respectively.Hero Exports Jan 2023Hero MotoCorp suffered a 66.75 percent YoY export de-growth in Jan 2023. Exports which had stood at 21,816 units in Jan 2022 fell by 14,563 units to 7,253 units in the past month. Every model on this list ended in the red except for the Xpulse 200. HF Deluxe was the most in demand in global markets with 2,448 units shipped in the past month, down 31.92 percent YoY from 3,596 units exported in Jan 2022. Hero Splendor was at No. 2 with 1,936 units exported last month, down 51.96 percent from 4,030 units sold in Jan 2022.Hero Hunk exports suffered the highest YoY de-growth of all. Exports dipped 84.56 percent to 1,643 units in Jan 2023 down from 10,642 units shipped in Jan 2022, the month when it had been the top exported model from Hero MotoCorp. Glamour (672 units), Xpulse 200 (472 units), Maestro (50 units) and Destini 125 (32 units) also featured lower down the order on the export list with each noting a YoY de-growth. More