Hero MotoCorp has begun work on hybrid powertrains for its future two-wheeler line-up as the industry rapidly shifts toward alternative powertrain technologies for a cleaner future.
Hero MotoCorp’s future powertrain strategy
"The market will continue to see alternative powertrain technologies. As you know, there is ICE and there is EV, where the industry is doubling down. We are working on flex fuels and ethanol-based fuel technology. In the long term, hybrid technologies are also being worked on," CEO Niranjan Gupta said. He commented in response to a question about the potential of compressed natural gas (CNG) powertrains in the market and whether the company has any medium-term plans for the same.
Recently, the industry saw the introduction of CNG as a new powertrain option. Bajaj Auto became the first two-wheeler maker to introduce a CNG-powered model, while TVS Motor also plans to launch a CNG-powered scooter. Hybrid technology, with which the vehicles run on a combustion engine and an electric motor, is not very popular in the two-wheeler segment in India. This technology combines a traditional internal combustion engine with an electric motor and a battery pack to provide improved fuel efficiency and lower emissions.
Yamaha Motors is the only two-wheeler maker in the country to introduce a hybrid vehicle, with its Fascino 125cc scooter featuring hybrid technology. Royal Enfield has also learned to have been working on it. While hybrid technology has surged in popularity in the passenger car segment lately, the momentum behind it continues to build up with sales eclipsing those of electric vehicles. Recently, Uttar Pradesh started offering a 100 percent waiver on road tax for strong hybrid cars.
Meanwhile, Hero MotoCorp is doubling down on its electric vehicle business under the Vida brand, with plans to expand its portfolio this year from the current two offerings to four. One of the scooters is likely to be affordable, while the other could be in the mid-segment.
Vishal Venugopal
Ved Janve
Azaman Chothia
