Hero Splendor EV : India’s largest two-wheeler manufacturer Hero MotoCorp is preparing to transform the country’s most beloved commuter motorcycle into an electric powerhouse. The Hero Splendor EV, internally codenamed Project AEDA, represents the company’s most ambitious electric vehicle initiative to date. Scheduled for launch in 2027, this electric iteration of India’s iconic Splendor promises to revolutionize affordable mobility while maintaining the trusted reliability that has made the brand a household name across the nation.
Strategic Development at Hero’s Innovation Hub
Development of the Splendor EV has been underway for nearly two years at Hero MotoCorp’s Centre of Innovation and Technology in Jaipur. This extensive development timeline reflects the company’s commitment to creating an electric motorcycle that doesn’t just match but potentially exceeds the performance and reliability standards set by its petrol-powered predecessor.
The project’s significance cannot be overstated – the original Splendor has been India’s best-selling motorcycle for decades, earning the trust of over 40 million customers. Transitioning this legendary nameplate to electric propulsion requires careful engineering to preserve the characteristics that made it successful while incorporating modern electric vehicle technology.
Hero’s approach involves comprehensive testing and refinement to ensure the electric variant maintains the Splendor’s reputation for durability, fuel efficiency, and low maintenance costs. The company’s engineers are working to translate these petrol-powered advantages into electric equivalents that resonate with Indian consumers.
Ambitious Sales Targets Reflect Market Confidence
Hero MotoCorp has set remarkably ambitious sales targets for the Splendor EV, projecting annual volumes of approximately 200,000 units once production reaches full capacity. This target reflects the company’s confidence in both the product and India’s evolving electric vehicle market.
Such ambitious projections indicate Hero’s belief that the Splendor EV will capture a significant portion of the electric motorcycle market, particularly among daily commuters and business users who currently rely on traditional petrol-powered motorcycles. The company’s strategy focuses on addressing the core transportation needs of urban and semi-urban Indian consumers.
The sales projections also suggest Hero’s intention to leverage the Splendor brand’s existing market presence and customer loyalty. By electrifying a trusted nameplate rather than launching an entirely new brand, Hero aims to reduce consumer hesitation about adopting electric mobility.
Comprehensive Electric Vehicle Portfolio Strategy
The Splendor EV forms part of Hero’s broader electric vehicle expansion strategy, which includes six new models planned for launch over the next two to three years. This comprehensive approach demonstrates the company’s commitment to establishing a significant presence across multiple electric vehicle segments.
Alongside the Splendor EV, Hero is developing the Vida Lynx electric dirt bike, targeted for launch in 2026 primarily for international markets. Additionally, Project ADZA encompasses two premium electric motorcycles equivalent to 150cc and 250cc petrol models, aimed at younger consumers seeking performance and style.
The company is also expanding its existing Vida electric scooter range with more affordable variants, creating a comprehensive electric mobility ecosystem. This multi-pronged approach allows Hero to address diverse consumer needs while building economies of scale across its electric vehicle operations.
Market Positioning and Expected Specifications
While detailed specifications remain under wraps, industry estimates suggest the Splendor EV will be positioned in the ₹1 lakh to ₹1.2 lakh price range, making it accessible to mainstream Indian consumers. This pricing strategy aligns with Hero’s traditional approach of offering value-focused products that don’t compromise on essential features.
Expected features include a lithium-ion battery pack providing 120-150 kilometers of range per charge, suitable for daily commuting needs. Fast-charging capabilities are anticipated to reduce charging time to 3-4 hours, while home charging options will provide convenience for overnight charging.
The design philosophy is expected to retain the Splendor’s classic commuter-friendly appearance while incorporating modern electric vehicle elements such as LED lighting, digital instrumentation, and smartphone connectivity features that appeal to contemporary consumers.
Hero Splendor EV Industry Impact and Future Implications
The Splendor EV’s launch represents more than just another electric vehicle introduction – it symbolizes the mainstream adoption of electric mobility in India. Hero’s decision to electrify its most successful nameplate signals confidence in the electric vehicle market’s maturation and consumer acceptance.
Hero MotoCorp aims to achieve cumulative annual sales of over 500,000 electric vehicles by 2027-28, with motorcycles contributing approximately 250,000 units annually. This ambitious goal positions the company to become a major player in India’s electric vehicle transformation.
The Splendor EV’s success could influence other manufacturers to accelerate their electric motorcycle development programs, potentially transforming India’s two-wheeler landscape. As the country moves toward cleaner transportation solutions, the electrification of iconic models like the Splendor represents a crucial step in making electric mobility accessible to millions of Indian consumers who have traditionally relied on affordable, reliable petrol-powered motorcycles for their daily transportation needs.