Hero MotoCorp is working to develop in-house electric vehicles; also invested in Ather Energy in two-wheeler EV space
Hero MotoCorp is the biggest two-wheeler manufacturer in India with its range of commuter motorcycles and scooters. Now, the company is aiming to introduce more premium products in the domestic market. Also, alongside that, it is working on electric vehicles in order to bring futuristic solutions to its mobility products.
The two-wheeler manufacturer has already invested a whopping Rs. 205 crore in Ather Energy, a start up working in EV two-wheeler space. Apart from that, it is also developing in-house electric vehicles. Interestingly, Hero MotoCorp’s ambition to develop an electric two-wheeler is not new. Back in 2012, it showcased the Leap that was India’s first electric-serial hybrid scooter. At the last edition of New Delhi Auto Expo, it displayed the Duet E, which was an electric scooter.
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The Hero Leap was not meant for Indian market, but for the two-wheeler manufacturer’s global market space. But, as the brand is nearing toward launching EV two-wheelers in the domestic market, we can assume it would be available here also. This hybrid scooter uses a 124 cc conventional petrol engine combined with an 8 kW electric motor that draws energy from a lithium-ion battery. The hybrid scooter is capable of kicking out 60 Nm of peak torque and it would be able to run at a top speed of 100 kmph.
Speaking about the Hero Duet E that was showcased at the 2016 New Delhi Auto Expo, it gets a 5 kW electric motor that is capable of pumping out 14 Nm of peak torque. Interestingly, this electric scooter has been developed by Hero MotoCorp’s in-house R&D team. This could be also a perfect EV solution for regular commuting in and around the Indian cities.
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Apart from the EVs, Hero MotoCorp is also working on expanding its domestic and international business. In September last year, it crossed cumulative sales mark of 70 million and now it aims to reach 100 million soon. The brand plans to invest Rs. 2,500 crore in next two years and it also targets to reach 50 international markets by the end of this decade in attempt to become a leading global brand.
Source: Business Standard