For decades, the Hero Splendor has ruled Indian roads as the most trusted and best-selling commuter bike. Now, in a world rapidly shifting towards sustainable mobility, Hero MotoCorp is preparing to reimagine this iconic motorcycle — as an electric two-wheeler. The Hero Splendor EV, expected to launch around 2026–2027, could be a game-changer in India’s electric mobility transition.
Let’s explore what the future of this beloved motorcycle might look like when electrified.
The Legacy of the Hero Splendor
The Splendor nameplate has carried immense trust and reliability since its launch in the 1990s. With its fuel efficiency, simple design, and low maintenance costs, the bike became synonymous with middle-class commuting. Over the years, Hero has sold millions of Splendors across India, making it a household name.
Given the growing interest in electric two-wheelers, Hero MotoCorp is now gearing up to bring this legendary model into the electric age — possibly with the same dependability and economy, but zero tailpipe emissions.
What to Expect from the Hero Splendor EV
While the official specs are yet to be revealed, here’s what industry insiders and early reports suggest about the upcoming Hero Splendor EV.
1. Design Language
Hero may retain the familiar silhouette of the Splendor, keeping its identity intact. However, subtle changes such as:
- A sealed hub motor in the rear wheel
- A digital instrument console
- Unique EV-specific paint schemes
…could help differentiate it from its petrol counterpart.
This approach ensures that long-time fans of the Splendor feel a sense of familiarity, even with the shift in technology.
2. Battery and Range
According to early projections, the Hero Splendor EV might come with a removable lithium-ion battery, possibly around 3–4 kWh, offering a real-world range of 100–120 km per charge.
This range would make it ideal for daily commutes, especially in tier 2 and tier 3 cities where long-distance travel is minimal.
3. Charging Time
The EV may support:
- Standard charging via home sockets (taking 4–6 hours)
- Optional fast charging in 2–3 hours (on higher-end variants)
Hero might also integrate this bike with its Vida charging infrastructure, offering better access to public charging.
4. Performance
It is expected that the Splendor EV will deliver performance similar to its petrol sibling. A hub motor producing 3–5 kW could be the sweet spot for balancing torque, speed, and efficiency.
Anticipated top speed: 65–80 km/h, which is perfect for city and semi-urban traffic conditions.
5. Technology and Features
Hero is likely to include:
- Digital instrument cluster
- Bluetooth connectivity
- Regenerative braking
- Ride modes (Eco, Power, etc.)
- Remote diagnostics
These features, common in modern EVs, would make the Splendor EV more appealing to younger, tech-savvy riders.
Target Audience
Hero clearly understands its loyal customer base. The Splendor EV would likely be targeted at:
- Office goers and daily commuters
- Delivery personnel
- Students and small business owners
- Eco-conscious urban riders
It’s not designed to be a premium electric bike but rather a no-nonsense commuter that replaces fuel with affordable electricity.
Expected Launch Timeline
As per industry sources, the Hero Splendor EV is expected to launch by 2026 or 2027. Hero MotoCorp is already testing various prototypes and focusing on building its electric ecosystem through Vida, its EV brand.
While Vida is experimenting with performance and scooter-based EVs, the Splendor EV will be the brand’s first major electric commuter motorcycle — and a landmark move.
Price Expectations
One of Hero’s biggest advantages is pricing. The Splendor EV is expected to be priced between ₹85,000 to ₹1,10,000 (ex-showroom), depending on the battery capacity and features.
With government subsidies (FAME III or state-level incentives, if available), the on-road price could become highly competitive, especially against other entry-level electric bikes and scooters.
Competition in the Segment
The Splendor EV will enter a competitive space, with players like:
- TVS iQube ST
- Ola S1 Air
- Bajaj Chetak
- Revolt RV400
While these are mostly scooters or more premium products, the Splendor EV would offer a balance of affordability and performance with Hero’s brand trust as a bonus.
Hero’s Electric Push: The Vida Initiative
Hero MotoCorp launched Vida as its electric mobility brand in 2022. The Vida V1 electric scooter is the first product under this brand, and it represents Hero’s push into the EV segment.
The company is also investing in:
- Battery swapping and fast-charging infrastructure
- Connected mobility solutions
- R&D for electric motorcycles and scooters
The Splendor EV will likely benefit from all these efforts, making it a well-rounded product at launch.
Why the Splendor EV Matters
The success of the Splendor EV can have a massive impact on India’s EV adoption goals. Here’s why:
- Mass Adoption Potential: Millions of Splendor users may consider switching if the electric version meets expectations.
- Affordability: Electric motorcycles are still expensive; Hero can make them accessible.
- Rural and Semi-Urban Penetration: Hero has a vast network, which will help the Splendor EV reach towns and villages too.
- Low Running Cost: Cost per km on electric power is far lower than petrol.
India is looking at two-wheeler electrification as a major pillar of its clean energy future. And Hero is best positioned to lead that transformation with a familiar and beloved name.
What We Still Don’t Know
Until Hero makes an official announcement, several details remain under wraps:
- Final battery specs
- Power output and top speed
- Connected features
- Variant options
- Official price and delivery schedule
But based on current industry movements, Hero is expected to play its cards right and launch the Splendor EV at a highly competitive price.
Final Thoughts: A New Era for a Trusted Name
The Hero Splendor EV is more than just a product — it’s a symbol of India’s evolving relationship with mobility. If done right, it could redefine the electric two-wheeler segment the way the original Splendor changed the commuter bike market.
With expectations of reliability, value-for-money, and nationwide support, the Splendor EV could serve as a bridge between traditional fuel users and the clean electric future.
The transition won’t be easy, but Hero seems ready to lead it — once again.
FAQs
Q1. Is the Hero Splendor EV officially confirmed?
Hero has not officially launched the bike, but reports suggest an electric version of the Splendor is under development.
Q2. What is the expected launch year of the Splendor EV?
The launch is expected around 2026 or 2027.
Q3. How much range will the Hero Splendor EV offer?
It may offer around 100–120 km of range per charge.
Q4. Will it have fast charging?
Possibly, though details are not confirmed.
Q5. Will the Hero Splendor EV be affordable?
Yes, it is expected to be priced competitively between ₹85,000–₹1.1 lakh (ex-showroom).
