Hero MotoCorp’s EV portfolio can be diversified with partners like Zero Motorcycles
Hero MotoCorp is the leader in the ICE segment but has yet to make significant progress in the EV segment. The electric scooter “Vida” has potential, but sales did not meet expectations. Still, Hero has been working on a multifaceted strategy to strengthen its position in the EV segment.
One of its main areas of focus is building partnerships with key players in the electric vehicle space. Hero already owns a 35% stake in Ather Energy. Another major collaboration partner is California-based Zero Motorcycles, which manufactures high-performance electric motorcycles. Last year, Hero MotoCorp announced a US$60 million investment in Zero Motorcycles.
India to get Zero Electric motorcycles
The Zero Motorcycles electric motorcycle will soon be available in India, according to Hero MotoCorp’s annual report. However, an exact timeline is not available at this time. However, with the rapid growth of the electric two-wheeler segment, Hero will likely aim to launch a zero electric motorcycle as soon as possible.
There aren’t many vendors in the premium electric motorcycle segment at the moment, so Hero aims to capture the first-mover advantage. As an example, TVS-backed Ultraviolette Automotive makes the luxury electric bicycle F77. Hero will likely focus on the premium segment and launch a cheaper version for the Indian market. The latter can also target specific foreign markets. We’re already seeing this strategy in action on bikes like the Harley X440 and the upcoming Nightstar 440.
Through their partnership with Zero Motorcycles, Hero Motorcycles is able to offer electric powertrains and electric two-wheeler products of the highest quality. Hero contributes by leveraging its low-cost manufacturing expertise and extensive sales and service network. This partnership is a significant step in Hero’s journey towards sustainable mobility. Such collaborations will accelerate the introduction of electric mobility in the Indian and overseas markets.
India’s upcoming Zero Electric motorcycles
Choosing the right bike for the Indian market can be a challenging task. A major reason for this is the wide range of street and dual-sport motorcycles offered by Zero Motorcycles. Choosing a direct import route simplifies your decision making. However, such a system would make the bike very expensive and unaffordable for most potential buyers. Local sourcing and local manufacturing work, and that’s where Hero will probably focus. It remains to be seen how many compromises will be made to achieve affordability. The Zero electric bike offers a premium riding experience the way it was meant to be. One example is the Zero SR/S, which produces 110 hp and 190 Nm of torque. The electric motor draws energy from a 17.3 kWh battery. Urban conditions have 187 miles (301 km). Peak top speed and sustained top speed are 124 mph (200 km/h) and 110 mph (177 km/h) respectively.
Zero electric bikes are equipped with batteries between 7.2 and 17.3 kWh. Prices for these bikes range from US$13,000 to US$25,000, which equates to approximately Rs.10.64 lakh to Rs.20.46 lakh. It remains to be seen what strategies Hero will employ to lower prices in India.
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