Hero MotoCorp

Hero is on the verge of launching an affordable alternative to upcoming Himalayan 450 and 390 Adventure with Xpulse 440Hero MotoCorp and Harley-Davidson joint venture has resulted in a brand new platform that both the brands will deploy with their branding. First vehicle to debut with the newly-developed 440 platform was Harley-Davidson X440. What next? Nightster 440 under Harley-Davidson or Hero’s flagship Xpulse 440? Looks like the probability is stronger with the latter.Hero Xpulse 440 Resumes TestingIndia’s largest 2W manufacturer seems to be on the verge of revamping its premium portfolio. We are seeing test mules of new Xpulse 210 that have similar body and hardware as standard Xpulse 200 but pack Karizma XMR’s new 210cc liquid-cooled engine. Alongside it, Hero’s upcoming Xtreme 210cc street naked was seen testing too.New test mules show a larger Xpulse motorcycle that made its first appearance last year at Khardung La. After that, this vehicle was never spotted testing again, until recently. This time, they’ve been spotted testing in a more urban environment. Particularly, somewhere in Jaipur city. Alongside this new test mule, we can see a KTM 390 Adventure as well, probably for benchmarking.Overall proportions are much larger than current Xpulse 200 4V and match with the test mules spotted last year. When launched, it will take on bigger single-cylinder ADVs like upcoming Royal Enfield Himalayan 450 and KTM 390 Adventure. As of now, there are no real leads to suggest which engine this new Xpulse is packing.Xpulse 440 spotted testing last year at Khardung LaThere are two possibilities – a brand-new 400cc liquid-cooled engine, or the same 440cc oil-cooled engine that debuted with Harley-Davidson. We would wager on the latter as it will prove cost-effective and allow them to undercut rivals by some margin. It will be sold via Hero’s Premia dealerships.Upcoming Hero XPulse 440?As for finer details on componentry, there are wire-spoke wheels, dual-purpose tyres (probably tube-type), an up-swept exhaust that looks a lot chunkier than the one on Xpulse 200 4V, some sort of trellis frame, USD telescopic front forks and rear mono-shock suspension with longer travel.On the recent test mules, rear swingarm looks like it is milled from a single piece of metal, and not a generic box-section unit. There are LED turn indicators and previous test mules showed a squarish fully-digital instrument cluster that may be shared with Karizma XMR.Xpulse 440 spotted testing last year at Khardung LaWhen Hero launched XPulse 200, it primarily rivaled Royal Enfield Himalayan in off-road conditions. Now that Royal Enfield is readying the Himalayan 450, Hero has begun to hone the blades that will clash sometime in 2024 or beyond.XPulse 440 is likely to be lighter in weight and also affordable when compared to upcoming Himalayan 450 and 390 Adventure. If Hero priced it around Rs. 2.5 lakh (ex-sh), it would be an absolute phenom. It would slot above upcoming Xpulse 210 with Karizma XMR engine in Hero’s ADV portfolio.Source More

New Hero KarizmaHero’s top 2 sellers, Splendor and Deluxe account for almost 78% of the total domestic sales in Sep 2023Hero MotoCorp, the world’s largest manufacturer of two-wheelers, has reported robust sales figures for its scooters and motorcycles in India for the month of September 2023. The company’s performance indicates steady growth in the domestic market and a substantial boost in exports.Hero MotoCorp Sales Breakup Sep 2023Hero MotoCorp’s domestic sales performance for September 2023 showcases a positive trend, with an overall growth of 2.39% compared to the same month last year. The company sold a total of 5,19,759 units in September 2023, up from 5,07,650 units in September 2022.Hero MotoCorp sales breakup Sep 2023The iconic Hero Splendor continues to be the top performer for the company, with 3,19,692 units sold in September 2023, marking an impressive growth of 9.99% compared to the previous year. This popular model continues to maintain a dominant market share of 61.51%.While the Hero HF Deluxe saw a decrease in sales by 10.13%, with 84,118 units sold, it remains a significant contributor to the company’s overall sales, commanding a 16.18% market share. Passion, Glamour, and Destini 125 models witnessed mixed results, with the Passion showing a marginal growth of 0.34%, Glamour experiencing a decline of 7.02%, and the Destini 125 demonstrating a 2.13% growth.Hero MotoCorp exports breakup Sep 2023On the other hand, the Pleasure, Xtreme 160/200, Xpulse 200 and Maestro posted varying degrees of decline in sales. The most notable decline was seen in the Maestro and Xpulse 200 models, with drops of 92.77% and 52.82%, respectively. Newly launched Xoom and Vida scooters are slowly reporting an increase in sales while the new Karizma 210 is expected to add a sales boost in coming months.Hero MotoCorp Exports Performance Sep 2023Hero MotoCorp’s exports also exhibited strong growth in September 2023. The company exported a total of 16,709 units, marking a significant 35.96% increase compared to September 2022. Hero Maestro led the export segment with 3,945 units, showing remarkable growth of 557.50% year-on-year. The Hunk and Xpulse 200 followed closely behind, with 72.73% and 86.10% growth, respectively.However, the HF Deluxe, Glamour, Splendor, Passion, Pleasure, and Destini models witnessed varying degrees of decline in exports, indicating that Hero MotoCorp’s international market performance is influenced by specific models and regions.Hero MotoCorp’s sales performance in September 2023 reflects a positive overall trend in the domestic market and a substantial boost in exports. The continued popularity of the Hero Splendor and growth in the export segment contribute to the company’s resilience in a competitive two-wheeler market. Despite challenges posed by changing consumer preferences and market dynamics, Hero MotoCorp remains a dominant player in the Indian and global two-wheeler industry, with a commitment to innovation and customer satisfaction. More

First Hero Premia showroom in CalicutIndia’s largest 2W manufacturer, Hero MotoCorp, has inaugurated its first Hero Premia premium dealership in Calicut, KeralaPromising a premium customer experience, Hero MotoCorp has greenlighted its premium dealership line named, Premia. This new Premia dealership will exclusively showcase brand’s flagships and new-age 2W vehicles. The first Premia dealership was inaugurated in the Auto Hub at Calicut, Kerala.Hero Premia Premium Dealership – New identity for premium bikesWith ambitions to provide a premium experience for prospective customers, Hero MotoCorp is committed to carving out a separate premium showroom line named Premia. This new dealership will incorporate brand’s cutting-edge products and boast a new identity as well.The specially trained Premia showroom personnel will cater to mobility needs of prospective customers and provide an unparalleled showcase of new-age technologies. This new Premia line will showcase Hero’s range of premium products including the new flagship Karizma XMR 210 fully-faired motorcycle.Along with that, Hero MotoCorp and Harley-Davidson’s maiden product X440 roadster-style motorcycle will grace Hero’s new Premia dealerships too. Hero’s Vida line of premium electric scooters can be experienced at Premia dealerships as well. Hero Premia will incorporate cloud-based tech along with augmented-reality visuals to assist prospective buyers in choosing their dream product.First Hero Premia showroom in CalicutNew brand identityWith Premia line of showrooms, Hero is establishing an unmistakable visual identity, conceptualising everyday adventure and sustainability at its core. Adhering to modernity and minimalism, Hero Premia’s new facade is of a dark shade. There’s a dash of grandeur on the insides, where the company has incorporated rock walls, mountain trails and rafter ceilings, among others.Hero Premia showrooms have a warmer tone on the inside, that exudes a warm and welcoming atmosphere to buyers. For consumer hospitality, there is contemporary furniture and a premium ambience. There are different product zones on the inside, with a recognisable brand language to efficiently showcase Hero’s diverse range of products.Urban and Street motorcycling zone display electric mobility and performance motorcycles, while Lifestyle and Exploration zone displays roadsters and adventure machines. This strategically located Premia dealership in Calicut is based on a 3,000 sq ft area that strives to provide best-in-class premium purchase and ownership experience in sales, service and spare parts departments.Harley-Davidson X440 showcasedWords from the manufacturerCommenting on the occasion, Mr. Ranjivjit Singh, Chief Business Officer, India Business Unit, Hero MotoCorp said, “As we open doors of our first premium dealership in India, we are not just offering a diversified display of our motorcycles and scooters, we are showcasing the future of mobility which is premium, innovative and sustainable. The FY’24 will see our company significantly strengthen its premium retail experience across India.With the launch of new premium products this year – Karizma XMR and Harley-Davidson X440, the premium portfolio of Hero MotoCorp looks stronger than ever and we’re confident that Hero Premia, our brand-new premium retail channel is poised for greater success in the coming months. Offering an inclusive brand experience to its customers under one roof, Hero Premia is not only a point of sale but a testament to our promise of providing an unmatched high-quality brand experience.” More

New Hero Xude scooter design patent leaksWith Xoom emerging as the bestselling Hero scooter, it makes sense to introduce its 125cc versionHero’s experimentations with letter ‘X’ in its naming convention seems to be delivering desired results. Some examples include XTEC, Xpulse and recently launched Karizma XMR and Harley-Davidson X440. In scooter segment, Xoom has emerged as a popular choice in 110cc segment. By end of this year or early 2024, Hero could introduce a new 125cc scooter named Xude.Hero Xude design patent images leakedXude appears to follow a design language similar to that of Xoom. It is evident in the shape of the headlamps, front apron and side panels. Xude has an aerodynamic, sporty design, which is similar to that of Xoom. Of course, there are unique elements that give Xude its own individual styling. Some of the differentiating aspects include a sharper front apron, wide and thicker seat, split grab rails and larger rear wheel. Front suspension setup seems to be different in comparison to that of Xoom.New Hero Xude scooter design patent leaksWhile it has a sporty profile, Xude can also double up as a practical, everyday scooter. It is expected to have storage space at front and under the seat. The floorboard area is flat, just like Xoom. It can be used to carry a wide variety of stuff. Differentiation for Xude will also come from a new range of colour options. The smaller sibling Xoom has some exciting shades. It has played a key role in making the scooter popular.Xude could borrow a large number of features from its smaller sibling. Some of the key highlights would be projector LED headlamp, H-position lamp, corner bending lights and signature H-shaped LED tail lamp. Tech integrations will include Bluetooth connectivity, real-time mileage indictor, low fuel indicator, SMS alert and caller ID. Utilities will include large under seat storage and USB mobile charging.Apart from these, Xude is likely to get some additional features as well. These will work to create a clear differentiation with the smaller capacity Xoom. For example, Xude could be equipped with Hero’s XTEC system. It could also get a new digital instrument cluster and more features on the smartphone connectivity suite.Hero Xude performanceHero MotoCorp’s 125cc portfolio currently includes Destini and Maestro Edge. The 125cc engine will be the same for upcoming Xude. The air-cooled, 4-stroke unit churns out 9 bhp of max power and 10.4 Nm of peak torque. Other hardware such as suspension and braking apparatus could also be borrowed from Hero’s 125cc scooters.Hero Xude will compete with the likes of TVS Ntorq, Suzuki Burgman, Yamaha RayZR 125 and Honda Grazia. If offered at an affordable price point, Xude should be able to emerge as an attractive option in 125cc scooter segment. It remains to be seen if it can replicate the success of its smaller sibling Xoom. More

Image for reference onlyWhile it will share the mechanicals with Harley-Davison X440, Hero Hurikan 440 will have entirely unique design aestheticsHero MotoCorp’s multifaceted partnership with Harley-Davidson includes development and sharing of new platforms. It’s something similar to the collaboration between TVS and BMW. After Harley’s X440, it appears that Hero is looking to introduce its own version based on the same platform.Hero Hurikan 440 name registeredAs per current records, the ‘Hurikan 440’ Word Mark is currently displayed as “Accepted & Advertised”. It indicates that the trademark name is closer to getting approved. Hopefully, Hurikan 440 will not get into potential legal tangles, as seen with X440 being opposed by Ultraviolette Automotive.Hurikan seems a good name choice for Hero’s new flagship bike. There’s some level of familiarity with Lamborghini Huracán. But that’s unlikely to have any impact on the bike’s future prospects. Huracán is the Spanish equivalent of a hurricane, which could be true for Hurikan as well. As Hurikan seems a globally relevant name, Hero may pursue export opportunities with this bike.The company already has a strong presence in exports of commuter bikes and scooters. While Harley X440 is a neo-retro interpretation of a roadster, upcoming Hero Hurikan 440 is expected to be a naked streetfighter bike. This segment has the widest acceptability in premium range. With affordable pricing, Hero should be able to generate decent sales numbers with Hurikan.Hero Hurikan 440 trademarkedThe bike will compete with the likes of Bajaj Dominar 400, KTM 390 Duke, BMW G310R and recently launched TVS Apache RTR 310. Similar to the response generated by Karizma XMR, Hero’s new flagship could be a major draw for enthusiasts. While a test mule is yet to be spotted, expect the bike to have a dominating street presence.Some of the key highlights will include an aggressive front fascia, LED headlamp with DRLs, sculpted fuel tank, fully digital instrument console, sinewy body profile with exposed frame sections, step-up split seat design and short tail section. Some exciting colour options and sporty graphics and decals will be on offer.Hero Hurikan 440 performanceHardware specs will be largely the same as Harley-Davidson X440. However, the engine could be tweaked in line with the needs of a naked streetfighter. For reference, Harley-Davidson X440 has a 440cc, single-cylinder, air-oil cooled, long-stroke engine. It generates 27 bhp of max power and 38 Nm of peak torque. It is paired with a 6-speed gearbox. In addition to having a different state of tune for the engine, Hurikan 440 is also expected to have a sportier exhaust note.Hero Hurikan 440 will have USD forks at front and a mono-shock unit at rear. Both front and rear suspension might have adjustability options. Braking duties could be done by 320 mm front and 240 mm rear disk brakes. Dual-channel ABS will be standard. Users can also expect a range of advanced tech and connectivity features. Hurikan 440 is expected to be launched in 2024. More

Hero Karizma XMR 210Karizma XMR 210 is the most tech-laden and advanced motorcycle that the company ever made and boasts a lot of firsts for HeroIndia’s biggest 2W manufacturer, Hero MotoCorp, has announced that deliveries for its flagship Karizma XMR 210 will commence this month. The new Karizma has garnered quite an interest among motorcycling enthusiasts. Hero MotoCorp has already clocked 13,688 bookings till now. The regular prices for Karizma XMR 210 have been announced already.Karizma XMR 13,688 Bookings And CountingThe new fully-faired Karizma XMR marks the return of an icon in motorcycling world. Once revered as the do-it-all motorcycle, has been reborn in its 3rd generation avatar as a sporty and performant machine. Enthusiasm among enthusiasts is high and reflects in the 13,688 bookings that Hero MotoCorp has garnered in a month.Hero MotoCorp had set an introductory price of Rs. 1.73 lakh (ex-sh) and it ended recently. Early adopters who booked their Karizma XMR between August 29th and September 30th got this intro pricing. The booking window is currently closed. Hero will soon announce the new booking window adhering to regular pricing.After a month of introductory pricing, Hero has now revealed regular pricing for Karizma XMR 210. It costs Rs. 1.8 lakh (ex-sh), which is Rs. 7,000 more than introductory pricing. Karizma XMR 210 motorcycles have been dispatched to dealerships already and deliveries will commence this month. Probably on the first day of Navratri. That’s also when Harley-Davidson X440 will commence deliveries.New Karizma profileMost powerful Karizma ever!There are numerous attributes in which Karizma XMR 210 shines. It ticks almost all the boxes that matter to buyers in this price segment. Apart from looks, striking colours and appeal, Karizma XMR 210 boasts a lot of technical advantages and boasts one of the most potent powertrains in this price bracket.Speaking of, Karizma XMR packs a 210cc single-cylinder 4V DOHC liquid-cooled engine generating 25.5 bhp of peak power and 20.4 Nm of torque. 6-speed gearbox, slipper clutch, dual-channel ABS, an advanced instrument screen with navigation support and smart LED headlights are notable elements.There may be a variant in the future with USD front forks named Karizma XMR Pro. Hero is already testing Xtreme 210 and Xpulse 210 with Karizma XMR’s engine.New Karizma instrument screenWords from the manufacturerMr. Ranjivjit Singh, Chief Business Officer (India Business Unit), Hero MotoCorp said, “We are thrilled and humbled by the incredible response to the Hero Karizma XMR. The overwhelming number of bookings speaks volume about the trust and enthusiasm that our customers have shown for the flagship motorcycle.The Legend is truly back in its modern, contemporary avatar and the customers are loving it. We are committed to delivering an exceptional premium riding experience to every Karizma owner, and are confident of adding cheer to the upcoming festive season.” More

Hero Xtreme 210 and Xpulse 210 spotted testingThe 210cc liquid-cooled engine on upcoming Hero Xtreme 210 and Xpulse 210 will develop around 25 bhp and 21 Nm, mated to a 6-speed gearboxIndia’s biggest motorcycle manufacturer, Hero MotoCorp, is on a mission to carve a bigger pie of premium 2W space for itself. In that regard, there has been quite an overhaul in Hero’s premium lineup along with new launches like Karizma XMR 210 and a separate dealer network for these bikes. Upcoming Xpulse 210 and Xtreme 210 will be a perfect example of this strategy.Hero Xpulse 210 Testing In Khardung LaHero’s Xpulse 200 4V ADV has been a fabulous product from day one. The company has updated this potent machine three times (BS6, 4V and 2023 Xpulse update). Regardless, the primary gripe with Xpulse ADV is that it needed more high-speed cruising ability in the form of a better engine and a 6-speed gearbox. Say Namaste to Xpulse 210.Apart from just powertrain, we hope there are more updates as well. We’re talking about Karizma XMR’s new instrument screen that would make a world of sense on an ADV along with a larger fuel tank. Maybe 15L to 16L fuel capacity as opposed to 13L on current Xpulse 200 4V. A larger windscreen, perhaps?The recent spy shots reveal some body panels below upcoming Xpulse 210’s fuel tank. These will conceal the new and larger radiator for its liquid-cooled engine. Exhaust routing and end can are new too. Componentry like 21-inch front and 18-inch rear wire-spoke wheel setup, dual-purpose tyres, long travel suspension setup, off-road worthy main frame and a Pro variant with Rally Kit are likely to remain identical to current Xpulse 200 4V.Upcoming Hero Xpulse 210This new engine is the same 210cc unit that Hero offers with Karizma XMR 210. As opposed to Xpulse 200’s 199.6cc oil-cooled engine with 18.9 bhp and 17.35 Nm, Karizma XMR’s engine is a major upgrade. The 210cc liquid-cooled engine has a 4V head along with a DOHC setup, generating around 25 bhp and 21 Nm of torque.6-speed gearbox and slipper clutch will be notable notable elements. Possibility of dual-channel ABS is 50:50, considering it is an ADV. DOHC setup will allow Hero to fine-tune valve timing and engine’s performance for multiple applications.Upcoming Hero Xtreme 210 looks beefySpeaking of multiple applications, Hero is carving a naked version of Karizma XMR 210. This is technically the same motorcycle as Karizma XMR 210, sans its handsome fairing and new headlights. In fact, the spy shots clearly show the same main frame along with engine as Karizma as well.Xtreme 210 spotted with similar engine and chassis as Karizma XMR 210So, this is highly likely to be based on Karizma XMR’s engine as we mentioned earlier and not Harley-Davidson X440’s. Other things that might be shared between Karizma XMR and Xtreme 210 are alloy wheels, USD front forks, rear subframe, fuel tank, split seat setup, instrument cluster and more.Changes are in the form of beefy fuel tank extensions (tank shrouds), a cleaner tail section, a tyre hugger, and headlights among others. We would wager that upcoming Xpulse 210 will feature revised gearing, along with a slightly different engine tune as opposed to Karizma XMR, while Xtreme 210 will be closer to its donor bike. Launch is likely in 2024 along with bigger Xpulse 440 and Xpulse 440T motorcycles spotted testing last year.Hero Xtreme 210 and Xpulse 210 spotted testing More

Hero Karizma XMR 210In September 2023, Hero MotoCorp recorded sales growth both across the motorcycle and scooter segments and also where domestic sales and exports were concernedIndia’s largest two-wheeler manufacturer, Hero MotoCorp has seen increased demand in September 2023 as the country is in the midst of the festive season. A favourable monsoon, increased disposable income and other positive economic factors have also led to this increase in sales. Vehicles like Splendor, Passion and Pleasure remain some of the most popular.Hero MotoCorp Sales September 2023Despite strong competition in this segment, sales of Hero MotoCorp were also boosted due to the company’s resilience in adapting to market dynamics and bringing in new products in line with consumer preferences thus allowing the company to hold on to its strong market share.The company’s total sales (motorcycles + scooters) (domestic sales + exports) growth stood at 3 percent to 5,36,499 units when compared to sales of 519,980 units in September 2023 while it was also a MoM growth from 4,88,717 units sold in August 2023.Hero MotoCorp motorcycle sales in September 2023 improved to 4,94,270 units, up from 4,80,237 units sold in September 2022.  This related to a 14,033 units volume growth. On a YTD basis, motorcycle sales fell to 25,69,688 units in the FY24 period from 26,38,618 units sold in the same period last year.Hero MotoCorp Sales September 2023Scooter sales have also grown YoY to 42,229 units in September 2023 from 39,743 units sold in September 2022 while YTD FY24 scooter sales stood at 1,99,412 units, up from 1,79,743 units sold during the FY23 period. Total domestic sales stood at 5,19,789 units in September 2023 from 5,07,690 units sold in September 2022 while YTD sales fell to 26,81,190 units in the FY24 period from 27,17,280 units sold in FY23.Exports also grew YoY but dipped on a YTD basis. With a strong global presence, the company shipped 16,710 units in September 2023 as against 12,290 units exported in September 2022 while YTD exports fell to 87,910 units in the FY24 period from 1,01,081 units exported in FY23.Hero MotoCorp Upcoming launchesThis took total sales to 5,36,499 units in September 2023 from 5,19,980 units sold in September 2022 while YTD sales dipped to 27,69,100 units in the FY24 period from 28,18,361 units sold in the same period last year.Following the recent launch of the Karizma XMR in India, Hero MotoCorp is also expanding its current portfolio. The company has been actively testing the Xpulse 210 and Xtreme 210 range. Test models of these adventure bikes have been spied doing the rounds along with the new Hero Xtreme 440. Hero Xtreme 440 could be launched sometime early next year and will borrow its overall makeup from the Harley-Davidson X440. More