Hero MotoCorp launches Splendor with stop-start tech

Hero MotoCorp has launched its all-new Splendor iSmart with i3S (Idle Stop and Start System) technology. The commuter motorcycle was first revealed at the Auto Expo last month and aims at further consolidating the company’s leadership position in the 100cc segment. This new 7.8bhp Splendor comes with a first-in-class fuel-saving start-stop system which shuts the engine down while the bike is at standstill. Apart from this novel tech, the new Splendor gets refreshed styling which includes new body panels, graphic, paint schemes and restyled instruments. 

The Splendor is the best-selling motorcycle in the country and in January 2014 it sold 180,037 units. Hero MotoCorp has priced the Splendor iSmart at Rs 47,250 (ex-showroom Delhi), Rs 49,967 (ex-showroom Mumbai), Rs 48,192 (ex-showroom Chennai), Rs 48,549 (ex-showroom Kolkata) and Rs 48,014 (ex-showroom Bengaluru). 

Speaking at the launch in New Delhi today, Anil Dua, senior VP (Marketing & Sales), Hero MotoCorp, said, “The Splendor iSmart is a great combination of style, performance and safety. Our customers will love the new i3S technology which makes this motorcycle truly smart, giving 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.”

Hero MotoCorp recently made a foray into Turkey in partnership with Asya Makina (Asya Dis ticaretvemakina san ltd sti). The company has started its operations with three products (the 125cc Glamour, 150cc Thriller and 100cc Pleasure scooter) in this strategic market, which is a gateway to Europe, with as many as 50 outlets spread across the country.

In February, the company reported sales of 504,181 two-wheelers, an increase of just 0.58 percent year on year (February 2013: 501,271 units). Following the 4 percent cut in excise duty on February 17, the company had cut prices across its product portfolio ranging from 2 percent going up to 5 percent with the maximum reduction being Rs 4,500.