Hero Electric is all set to launch its all-new Optima with new features including cruise control that will reflect in the upgraded speedometer once activated.

The cruise control feature on Optima will allow the rider to maintain a constant speed for comfortable riding and eliminating inconvenience. The rider can press the cruise control button to activate the scooter’s cruise function to maintain a desired speed. Once activated, speedometer will reflect the cruise symbol and, the same can be deactivated by braking or twisting the throttle. The Hero Electric Optima HX retails at Rs 55,580 onwards (ex-showroom price after the revised FAME 2 subsidy).

Sohinder Gill, CEO, Hero Electric said, “Our R&D has been constantly working on practical and uncomplicated innovations to offer value-added features on the Hero bikes to make the ride easy and enjoyable. Some of these features like cruise control become an integral part of the bike while some others like Bluetooth, GPS connectivity are left to the choice of the customer. These are small steps in our journey to create connected bikes that are safe, convenient and also pleasure to ride.”

The company says it is now expanding its existing R&D facilities to manufacture the next-generation of low-speed, city Speed and high-speed electric vehicles for discerning consumers. In addition, it also will launch a new tech centre with state-of-the-art equipment, expand the R&D team, and recruit new talent for powertrain development and vehicle design.

The OEM says it will continue to associate with multiple EV startups and Tier 1 partners for developing the core technical concepts in-house for hassle-free ownership and riding of the electric scooters. Internet of Things (IoT), energy efficiency, connectivity, and user-interface product verticals are the focus of Hero Electric’s connected vehicle strategy in the coming years.