More stories

  • in

    Hero Sales Breakup Nov 2022 – Splendor, HF Deluxe, Pleasure, Xpulse

    Hero MotoCorp remained the No.1 two wheeler maker in Nov 2022 with total sales of 3,90,802 unitsImage – Indian IdentityHero MotoCorp, India’s largest two-wheeler maker, has posted a YoY domestic sales growth of 15.48 percent in Nov 2022. However, in export markets, the company saw its shipments dip by 45.97 percent. Total sales in the past month stood at 3,90,802 units in the past month, up from 3,49,531 units sold in Nov 2021.Domestic sales grew by 15.48 percent to 3,79,709 units in Nov 2022 from 3,28,817 units sold in Nov 2021. This was a volume growth of 50,892 units. Exports dipped 45.97 percent to 11,093 units in Nov 2022 from 20,531 units shipped in Nov 2021 relating to a volume de-growth of 9,438 units.Hero MotoCorp Domestic Sales Nov 2022Hero Splendor 100-110cc led the sales chart in the past month. Sales increased by 37.97 percent YoY to 2,65,588 units in Nov 2022, up from 1,92,490 units sold in Nov 2021. This was a volume growth of 73,098 units with the Splendor commanding a 69.95 percent share.At No. 2 was HF Deluxe that has posted a YoY de-growth of 14.54 percent. Sales of this commuter bike in Nov 2021 had stood at 76,149 units which dipped to 65,074 units in Nov 2022. The HF Deluxe currently commands a 17.14 percent share on this list. Hero Pleasure was the company’s best-selling scooter in Nov 2022 with 19,739 units sold, up 77.25 percent YoY from 11,136 units sold in Nov 2021. The Pleasure scooter was also the 4th best-selling scooter in the country after the Activa, Access and Jupiter.Hero MotoCorp Sales Breakup Nov 2022Destini 125 sales surged 372.15 percent on a YoY basis to 15,411 units in Nov 2022 from 3,264 units sold in Nov 2021. Sales of Hero Glamour (7,402 units) and Passion (2,740 units) dipped significantly on a YoY basis by 66.20 percent and 78.81 percent respectively. Sales of these two models stood at 21,901 units and 12,933 units in Nov 2021. Domestic sales of Hero Maestro (1,977 units), Xtreme 160/200 (1,196 units) and Xpulse (582 units) also took a dive on a YoY basis.Hero MotoCorp expects the new Vida V1 electric scooter, recently introduced in India to bring in added sales in the coming months. Bookings have opened and deliveries have commenced. The Vida e-scooter is presented in two variants Vida V1 Plus and Vida V1 Pro priced at Rs 1.45 lakh and Rs 1.59 lakh, ex-showroom, respectively.Hero MotoCorp Exports Nov 2022Every model in the company lineup posted a YoY de-growth in terms of exports except for the  Hero Maestro. In export markets, it was the Hero HF Deluxe that saw the most sales at 4,192 units, down 16.26 percent YoY from 5,006 units sold in Nov 2021. It currently holds a 37.79 percent share.Hero MotoCorp Exports Nov 2022Hero Hunk exports dipped 70.74 percent YoY to 2,654 units in Nov 2022 from 9,070 units shipped in Nov 2021. More recently, the 2023 Hero Hunk has been doing the test rounds. Completely without any camouflage, the Hunk appears to be a rebadged Hero Xtreme 200R which had been discontinued a few years back.Exports of Hero Splendor dipped by 32.05 percent to 2,120 units from 3,120 units shipped in Nov 2021 while Hero Maestro was the only model on this list to post a YoY growth in terms of exports. Shipments stood at 774 units in the past month, up 128.99 percent from 338 units shipped in Nov 2021.Hero Xpulse 200 (578 units) and Glamour (400 units) both posted a YoY de-growth in terms of exports by 53.94 percent and 75.93 percent respectively over 1,255 units and 1,662 units shipped in Nov 2021. There were also 270 units of Passion and 96 units of Pleasure exported last month while Destini 125 sales dipped 88.75 percent to just 9 units in Nov 2022 from 80 units shipped in Nov 2021. More

  • in

    Hero XPulse 200T Facelift Launch Price Rs 1.25 L – 3 New Colours

    Hero XPulse 200T is conceived as a touring version of the capable XPulse 200 off-roaderHero XPulse 200T FaceliftHero MotoCorp has been ramping up sales like clockwork. The company has a portfolio of some of the most value-for-money products. Models like Splendor are still going strong crushing every other motorcycle to become the highest-selling motorcycle in India as seen in our top motorcycles post.If we take the company’s current flagship XPulse range, even though they don’t sell like Pulsar series or Apache series or FZ series, they still make their way to top 10 lists in Hero’s sales as seen the Hero sales breakup post. But within this 200cc platform, 200S and 200T are not that popular and Hero is fixing one of those with a facelift.Hero XPulse 200T FaceliftHero has updated the XPulse 200T for the 2023 model year with a facelift. Launch price is Rs 1,25,726, ex-sh. Anyone remember the XPulse 200 Scrambler Concept that Hero showed off in 2018? No? We mention it because the subtle changes XPulse 200T gets, reminds us of that concept. Changes are a small body-coloured visor identical to the one on Scrambler Concept, a fork gaiter (fork boots) and blacked-out aesthetics.Front forks and exhaust cover are now finished in black or dark grey. Also new is the engine guard or the belly pan with a new design. Grab rails are also new and are simpler than the ones currently on sale. Headlight unit and handlebar are still the same. But the new 200T gets a new red insert on the cylinder head, something we recently saw on XPulse 200 4V Rally Edition.Hero XPulse 200T FaceliftRanjivjit Singh, Chief Growth Officer (CGO), Hero MotoCorp said, “XPulse has built a robust position among motorcycling enthusiasts in India, and we are certain that this trend will be further strengthened with the launch of the new Hero XPulse 200T 4V.Offering a distinctive experience to riders, the Hero XPulse 200T 4V truly comes in an all-new avatar, with its bold, youthful, and retro design elements. An embodiment of endless highways, and the dream of freedom, the new motorcycle is engineered to deliver an unmatched touring experience with utmost comfort and performance.”Powertrain SpecsHero XPulse 200T facelift gets the same 4V head as we saw with the XPulse 200 off-roader. It churns out a maximum power of 19.1 PS @ at 8500 RPM and torque of 17.3 Nm @ 6500rpm (6% more power and 5% added torque). Thus making it more touring-friendly, thanks to the re-tuned power-torque curve and revised transmission ratio. It will come mated to a 5-speed gearbox. Rest of the components like alloy wheels, petal disc brakes, suspension (37mm front forks & 7-step adjustable mono-shock suspension) and exhaust unit seems to be the same as well.The motorcycle comes loaded with a variety of intelligent assistance systems including best-in-class turn-by-turn navigation, LCD instrument cluster with Bluetooth connectivity, gear indicator, trip meter and service reminder that make your journey even safer and more comfortable.It comes in 3 colour options of Matt Funk Lime Yellow, Matt Shield Gold and Sports Red. More

  • in

    2023 Hero Hunk Spied Testing – Pulsar P150, Unicorn Rival?

    The test mules of 2023 Hero Hunk 160 seem to be close to production and were completely undisguised2023 Hero Hunk SpiedHero Hunk is a muscular 150cc motorcycle that came with the same engine as CBZ Extreme. It was not very popular in India. Hero MotoCorp had to discontinue the motorcycle from the domestic market. However, it is still manufactured here and is being shipped overseas.At 2,749 units shipped in August 2022, Hero Hunk is the highest-exported 2-wheeler from India’s largest 2W manufacturer in that month. Hunk is currently sold in Bangladesh, Angola, Argentina, Bolivia, Columbia, Ecuador, El Salvador, Ethiopia, Guatemala, Guyana, Madagascar, Myanmar, Nepal, Panama, Peru, Sri Lanka and a few more countries.That being said, Hero markets Xtreme 160R as Hunk 160R in a few markets, Hunk 190R gets the same engine as Xpulse 200 and in a few other markets, Hunk 150 is still on sale that gets the same features and body that we used to get years ago in India. But there is a new Hunk that is spotted testing in India. Let’s take a look.2023 Hero Hunk Spied2023 Hunk test mules in question were spotted in Jaipur, near Hero MotoCorp Tech Center. Both of them donned red number plates indicating that they are test mules. Looking at these motorcycles, I couldn’t help but think about the Hero Xtreme 200R that was launched besides Xtreme 200S and Xpulse 200. 2023 Hero Hunk SpiedCloser inspection revealed that it has similar body panels, tank design, tank shrouds design, headlight design, alloy wheels, exhaust canister, taillights and pretty much everything else. There is one major change and that is the engine. 2023 Hero Hunk which was spotted testing, was equipped with a 160cc engine that we also saw on Xtreme 160R.2023 Hero Hunk SpiedEngine casing is similar to 160’s rather than 200’s. On deduction, it looks like Hero MotoCorp is targeting the lower end of 150cc and 160cc segments. This is where Honda Unicorn is currently partying. Looking at the fairly minimal bells and whistles that Hunk 160R is donning, it is obvious where Hero has its eyes on.Specs & FeaturesSpeaking of bells and whistles, there are not a lot on Hunk 160R. This can be a boon allowing Hero to price it competitively. Single-channel ABS is present along with alloy wheels, dual disc brakes, LED taillights, halogen headlights, mono-shock rear and telescopic front suspension are some of notable features. Hero might throw in XTEC connected features as well.2023 Hero Hunk SpiedThe engine on Xtreme 160R makes 15 bhp and 14 Nm of torque. On 2023 Hero Hunk, this engine might be detuned to fit the segment. Honda Unicorn is gaining a lot of traction in recent months and is regaining lost market at a significant rate. Recently launched Bajaj Pulsar P150 has a single-disc variant that is another likely rival for Hunk 160.If planned for India, new Hunk could launch sometime next year, as the test mules looked fairly production-ready. We would wager a price of around Rs. 1 lakh to Rs. 1.05 lakh (ex-sh) for the top-spec trim with Bluetooth connectivity and a sub Rs. 1 lakh price for base trim without connected features. More

  • in

    Hero MotoCorp Sales Nov 2022 – Splendor, Passion, Xpulse, Destini

    Positive growth momentum is expected to continue in coming months on account of favourable economic conditions in the countryHero SplendorIndia’s largest two-wheeler manufacturer, Hero MotoCorp has reported YoY gain of 12% in the month of November. A total of 390,932 units were sold in comparison to 349,393 units sold in November last year. YTD numbers are also positive with cumulative sales at 3,663,875 units during YTD FY’23. In comparison, a total of 3,360,493 units were sold during YTD FY’22.However, MoM growth is negative in comparison to 454,582 units sold in October 2022. October and November are usually the best months of the year in terms of sales. Most OEMs including Hero launch special schemes, discount offers and finance options to ensure max sales during this period.Hero domestic sales vs. exports – Nov 22Even though Hero has stepped up focus on exports, it continues to be largely dependent on domestic sales. In the month of November, domestic sales were at 379,839 units. YoY growth is positive, as compared to 328,862 units sold in November last year. Domestic sales during YTD FY’23 was at 3,539,944 units, as compared to 3,163,155 units during YTD FY’22.Hero exports have taken a hit in November, possibly due to inflationary conditions prevailing in several overseas markets. India is among the few countries that have relatively less inflation in comparison to global average. Hero export numbers in November were at 11,093 units, a significant fall from 20,531 units exported in November last year. Cumulative numbers tell a similar story with 123,931 units exported during YTD FY’23. Exports were higher at 197,338 units during YTD FY’22.Hero MotoCorp domestic sales – YoY vs MoMOverall, it’s the motorcycles that continue to generate majority of sales for Hero MotoCorp. Some of Hero’s bestsellers include Splendor, HF Deluxe, Hero Passion and Glamour. Contribution of scooters in overall sales was around 10% in November 2022. Both motorcycle and scooter sales were positive in the month. A total of 352,834 motorcycles and 38,098 scooters were sold, as compared to 329,185 motorcycles and 20,208 scooters in November last year.Hero MotoCorp Sales Nov 2022Growth momentum to continueWith favourable economic indicators such as encouraging farm activity, along with positive consumer sentiments and upcoming marriage season, Hero MotoCorp expects the sales momentum to continue in coming months. Sales will also get a boost from VIDA electric scooter, which is currently available in Bengaluru, Delhi and Jaipur. Deliveries are scheduled to commence from second week of December 2022.Hero MotoCorp continues to focus on strengthening the social ecosystem, as part of its CSR program. The company recently provided 50 motorcycles and 10 scooters to Gurugram police. These will be used for patrolling to keep a check on crime and ensure safety of women.There’s focus on promoting biking as well, via special events such as Hero Dirt Biking Challenge (HDBC). The company recently concluded the first edition of this event, which witnessed participation from riders and enthusiasts across the country. The event was spread over a period of 120 days, covered 41 cities and had 1 lakh registrations. Asad Khan was announced as the off-Road Riding Champion in this year’s event. The complete story will be aired soon on MTV and Voot. More

  • in

    Hero MotoCorp Price Hike Dec 2022 – Splendor, Passion, Pleasure

    Rise in prices of Hero motorcycles and scooters is due to the prevailing inflationary situationNew Hero SplendorIndia’s largest two-wheeler manufacturer, Hero MotoCorp has announced that it will be increasing prices of its motorcycles and scooters from December 01, 2022. Prices will be increased by up to Rs 1,500 and will vary based on the specific model and market.This will be the fourth price hike for Hero motorcycles and scooters in 2022. The last price hike was in September, when prices were increased by up to Rs 1,000. At that time too, the reason for the price hike was stated to be rising cost inflation. Hero MotoCorp Dec 2022 price hike will be applicable to almost all their two wheelers, including top sellers like Splendor, Passion, HF Deluxe, Pleasure, Destini, etc.Hero MotoCorp price hike December 2022OEMs usually try to absorb rising cost inflation as much as possible, since it has potential to impact sales. OEMs can optimize processes and reduce production cost to deal with rising cost inflation. Overall, the aim is to minimize the impact on consumers. However, at times it is just not possible to avoid a price increase. This is usually done to ensure business sustainability.As a means to cushion the impact of price hike on consumers, Hero MotoCorp has said that it will continue to provide innovative financing solutions. It is likely to include option of minimal down payment and competitive interest rates. There could be some special offers available at the dealer level as well.Prices of new Hero Vida Electric scooter start from Rs 1.45 lakh, ex-shHero has also launched online exchange program, which is another great way to reduce overall cost of acquisition. The exchange program covers most scooters and motorcycles that are less than 15 years old. Users just need to provide some details about the condition of their bike to get an instant quote on the exchange value. Hero’s exchange program is a great help to those looking to buy a new bike or upgrade to a larger capacity model.To protect consumers from future price hikes, Hero has launched an accelerated savings program within the organization. It will not only help absorb further cost impact, but will also result in improved margins. In view of prevailing economic conditions, Hero expects increased demand for two-wheelers in the future. It is anticipating an increase in sale volumes in coming quarters.Hero upcoming bikesHero has already ventured into EV space with launch of Vida electric scooter. It is currently available for sale in Bengaluru, Delhi and Jaipur. Other cities will be covered in the coming months. An electric bike is also under development in collaboration with California (USA)-based Zero Motorcycles. Investments worth up to US$60 million have been allocated for Zero Motorcycles, which will be utilized for design and development of Hero’s first electric motorcycle.In ICE segment, Hero is expected to launch Xpulse 400 and Xtreme 400S. These have been spotted on road tests. Another major project is a new 350cc bike being developed in collaboration with Harley-Davidson. The bike is currently in advanced stage of development. It will have Harley’s signature design aesthetics and sold via Harley dealerships. It will primarily rival Royal Enfield 350cc bikes. More

  • in

    First Hero Harley Motorcycle To Launch In 2024 – Royal Enfield Rival ?

    Expected to be available in showrooms by March 2024, the first Hero-Harley bike will challenge Royal Enfield in 350cc segmentNew Hero-Harley Motorcycle For IndiaHarley-Davidson’s decision to exit Indian market has turned out to be an opportunity for Hero MotoCorp. As per their collaboration, Hero is taking care of sales and service of Harley-Davidson bikes across the country. Hero is also managing network expansion of Harley dealerships.Hero-Harley partnership also entails development of entirely new motorcycles. The first of these new products has now been confirmed by Niranjan Gupta, CFO at Hero MotoCorp. Along with mass-market products, Hero-Harley will also be targeting the premium segment. An entirely new platform is also being developed in collaboration with Harley.First Hero Harley Motorcycle – new 350cc bikeHero-Harley new 350cc bike is currently in advanced stage of development. The new product has to be really good, as it has been almost impossible to dent the cult-like following and popularity of Royal Enfield bikes. Harley nameplate could be an advantageous factor, but it is too early to make predictions about how consumers will react to Hero-Harley 350cc bike.Not many details are available about Hero-Harley 350cc bike at this point of time. It is expected to have a retro profile and Harley’s signature design aesthetics. To ensure it does not get branded as a cheap rip-off of Harley, the new bike will be sold via Harley dealer network. The new 350cc bike will create history, as it will mark Harley’s re-entry into the middleweight motorcycle segment. As may be recalled, Harley had discontinued Street 750 and the Street Rod 750 in 2021.Harley Davidson 353cc Motorcycle – Design PatentJust a few years back, the options available in 350cc segment were largely limited to Royal Enfield bikes. This space has become a lot more competitive with new product launches from Honda, Jawa, Yezdi, Keeway and most recently QJ Motor. It’s another matter that Royal Enfield continues to dominate with market share of more than 80%. In future, OEMs like Triumph and Bajaj are also expected to launch their respective products in 350cc segment.Hero upcoming bikesApart from the new 350cc bike, Hero is also working to expand its own portfolio. Among the most awaited are Xpulse 400 and Xtreme 400S, which were spotted on road tests earlier this year. These new bikes could be equipped with a 421cc motor that generates around 40 bhp of max power.While the faired version will target rivals like TVS Apache RR310 and BMW G310RR, the ADV will lock horns with KTM 390 Adventure, Yezdi Adventure, Royal Enfield Himalayan and BMW G310GS. Launch is expected sometime next year.Hero is also stepping up focus in EV space. Its first electric scooter Vida is available for sale in Delhi, Bengaluru and Jaipur. More cities will be covered in a phased manner. Hero is also developing an electric motorcycle in collaboration with California (USA)-based Zero Motorcycles. Hero will be investing up to US$60 million in Zero Motorcycles, which will be used for the development of electric motorcycles. Hero has similar collaborations with Ather Energy and Gogoro as well. More

  • in

    Hero Vida Electric Scooter Test Ride Starts – First Experience Center Opens

    The first Hero Vida Experience Center is now open in Bengaluru – Next ones will open in Jaipur and DelhiFirst Hero Vida Electric Scooter Experience CenterHero MotoCorp created quite a buzz when they launched its Vida V1 electric scooters. Coming from India’s largest motorcycle manufacturer, it was set to push the EV envelope further than what it currently packs. Now, the company has opened its first experience center in Bengaluru and has commenced test rides as well.The first Hero Vida Electric Scooter Experience Center is located in Bengaluru at prominent Vittal Mallya Road. Here customers will be able to familiarize themselves with the brand, experience the product and immerse themselves in a ‘Worry-free EV Ecosystem’ of VIDA. To mark this occasion, VIDA has also commenced customer test rides of VIDA V1 from today.Hero Vida Electric Scooter Experience CenterSpread over 8500 sq. ft., this Experience Center will display the VIDA V1 scooters, charging stations, an interactive wall that illustrates the brand vision, and product configurations to help customers visualize their VIDA V1. It has an in-house coffee bar and a library as well. Hero MotoCorp is pitching it as a hub for VIDA communities, hosting events, brand meets and cohort activities in the future. After the first Hero Vida Experience Center in Bengaluru, Jaipur and Delhi are next.Speaking on the occasion, Dr. Swadesh Srivastava, Head – Emerging Mobility Business Unit (EMBU), Hero MotoCorp said: “Expanding our vision to shape the EV category and grow its scale, we are excited to open the first VIDA Experience Center. This Experience Center is a manifestation of our vision to build experiences that create curiosity, and meaningfulness and that people connect with.First Hero Vida Electric Scooter Experience CenterThe Experience Center will provide the community insight into the ‘Worry-free EV ecosystem’ that we have created with VIDA. This center is one of the many physical assets of our omnichannel approach. Our tech stack and physical assets are built to uplift the customer experience from just entering into a space of retail to a space where they can be part of a larger story. It’s a one-of-its-kind experience that we are providing in the segment.”Pricing & DeliveriesVIDA V1 comes with a performance that can take it from 0-40 in 3.2 secs. With up to a 3.94 kWh battery, it boasts a range of 163 km (IDC) and a top speed of 80 km/h. Features include a Custom Mode (100+ combinations), Cruise Control, Boost Mode, Two-way throttle, Key-less access and an OTA-enabled 7” TFT Touch-Screen.Along with Vida V1 electric scooter range, Hero is also offering services like Green EMI and efficient interest rates. Buy-Back scheme assures vehicle buy-back at 70% of purchase value between the 16th to 18th months of vehicle ownership. Hero MotoCorp offers a test ride for up to three days. Along with these, Repair On-Site service is offered too, where customer executives are available to provide service anywhere, anytime.First Hero Vida Electric Scooter Experience CenterMost of these are new to the EV segment in India and reception for this approach is yet to be seen. VIDA V1 is available in two variants – VIDA V1 Plus at Rs. 1,45,000 and VIDA V1 Pro at Rs. 159,000 (both prices ex-sh). Customer deliveries of VIDA V1 commencing from the second week of December 2022. More

  • in

    New Xpulse 200T Fully Revealed – Walkaround Video

    Earlier, 200T used to make 17.83 bhp and 16.15 Nm from its 199.6cc air/oil cooled engine and New Xpulse 200T 4V will make 18.8 bhp and 17.35 NmNew XPulse 200T 4VAt the pricier end of Hero’s motorcycle spectrum, we have XPulse and Xtreme series. Xtreme series consists of Xtreme 160R, a street fighter, and Xtreme 200S, a sports bike/sports tourer. Xpulse series consists of the rather brilliant XPulse 200 off-roader and XPulse 200T tourer.Soon, Hero will have much more capable flagships in the form of a 300cc to 400cc+ Xpulse off-roader, Xpulse tourer and an Xtreme sports bike/sports tourer. Until then, XPulse 200 series is the flagship. Hero is now gearing up to launch the New Xpulse 200T 4V to give it a refresh. This is that shot in the veins that Xpulse 200T needed as it was overshadowed by its off-roading sibling.New Xpulse 200T 4V WalkaroundLooks like Hero has given a thorough facelift for New Xpulse 200T 4V. Changes are not pretty significant. Yet, they make their presence known. Right off the bat, we can spot a new fly-screen that first made its debut on the Xpulse 200T Scrambler concept back in 2018. Headlamp assembly is still the same, but with this new fly-screen, it looks much sharper. Take a look at V8 Historia De Motores’s video below.Unlike the Scrambler concept, New Xpulse 200T 4V fly-screen will be body coloured as opposed to funky neon yellow. Front forks were exposed before. With the update, we can see fork gaiters that enhance the retro appeal along with fly-screen. Other visual changes include a belly pan. This was also present in the Scrambler concept.[embedded content][embedded content]Along with these, we also get a new grab rail made which is tube type, as opposed to rack-type unit shared with Xpulse 200 off-roader. Handlebars seem to be raised more than before that will certainly aid in touring comfort. Even though the changes are minor, they come together beautifully and lend the New Xpulse 200T 4V a brand-new look, especially with new dual-tone colour schemes.Specs & FeaturesHero MotoCorp is not making some design changes and calling it a day for this update. No, sir/ma’am. This is much more profound than that. This update will bring in the new 4V head that its off-road sibling received earlier this year. This will ensure better breathability and since the new valves are lighter, they’ll rev higher and see less wear and tear in the long run.Earlier, 200T used to make 17.83 bhp at 8,500 RPM and 16.15 Nm of torque at 6,500 RPM from its 199.6cc air/oil cooled engine. 200 4V off-roader makes 18.8 bhp at 8,500 RPM and 17.35 Nm at 6,500 RPM. These figures are likely to be translated to New Xpulse 200T 4V. Its oil-cooling radiator is enlarged too, just like Xpulse off-roader.New XPulse 200T 4VWith the off-roader, 4V head costs Rs. 10,000 more. 200T currently costs Rs. 1.24 lakh (ex-sh) and with this update, we can see pricing go till Rs. 1.34 (ex-sh). Launch is likely to happen very soon and will take on Honda Hornet 2.0 and the likes with respect to price. Features like Bluetooth connectivity will be retained with this update. More