Hero MotoCorp, which recently launched the Splendor iSmart commuter motorcycle, is exploring introduction of the i3S (idle stop-start system) technology to several other models in the near future. In an email response to Autocar Professional, Anil Dua, senior vice-president, marketing and sales, HMCL, said: “Our customers will love the new i3S technology which gives them more for every drop of fuel. We have applied for a patent for this technology, which may be later extended to several other models.”
“The i3S tech is a revolutionary green technology that automatically shuts the engine when idling and turns it on, when needed, with a simple press of the clutch, giving more mileage in congested cities,” added Dua. Arguably the first motorcycle in India to use the stop-start tech, the Splendor iSmart has been given an i3S switch (to activate or to cancel the stop-start tech) on the right-hand side of the handlebar. With the engine automatically shutting down under the active i3S mode, the technology is expected to boost the city traffic mileage of this commuter bike, hopefully saving substantial margins for the buyer of its class. Though the Splendor series is one of the best-selling commuter motorcycle brands in India, the company is looking to aggressively advertise the new innovative technology (through Splendor iSmart) to educate the masses about its benefits before it brings on the i3S tech on other existing or upcoming models.