Hero Splendor Electric: The motorcycle that put millions of Indians on wheels is preparing for its most significant transformation yet. Hero MotoCorp, the country’s largest two-wheeler manufacturer, has officially confirmed development of an electric version of the iconic Splendor, marking what industry insiders are calling the company’s “most ambitious and significant project” to date. Set for a 2027 launch, the Hero Splendor Electric represents more than just another EV—it’s a potential game-changer that could finally bring electric mobility to India’s masses.

Project AEDA: Two Years in the Making

Sources say an electric variant of the popular Hero Splendor is one of the company’s most significant projects. The product has been under development at its technology centre, CIT, in Jaipur for nearly two years and is scheduled for launch in 2027. Internally codenamed “Project AEDA,” this ambitious undertaking has been quietly progressing at Hero’s advanced technology center in Jaipur, where engineers are working to recreate the magic that made the original Splendor India’s best-selling motorcycle.

The significance of this project cannot be overstated. The Hero Splendor has earned its place as one of India’s most recognizable and trusted two-wheeler brands, having put millions of Indians on wheels since its introduction in 1994. Now, as India accelerates toward electric mobility, Hero is banking on the Splendor’s legendary reliability and mass appeal to lead this transition.

Massive Production Ambitions Signal Market Confidence

People in the know say the Splendor project is named AEDA, and the company is eyeing a potential volume of nearly two lakh units per annum for the model. This production target of 200,000 units annually demonstrates Hero’s confidence that electric two-wheelers are ready for mainstream adoption. Such ambitious numbers also suggest the company believes it can price the electric Splendor competitively enough to attract the same budget-conscious customers who have made the petrol version a household name.

This scale of production would make the Splendor Electric one of the largest-volume electric motorcycles in India, potentially rivaling even popular electric scooters in terms of sales numbers. The volume commitment also indicates Hero’s strategy to leverage economies of scale for competitive pricing—a crucial factor for success in India’s price-sensitive two-wheeler market.

Part of a Comprehensive Electric Strategy

The Splendor Electric isn’t Hero’s only bet on electric mobility. According to sources familiar with the company’s plans, Hero MotoCorp has lined up half a dozen new models over the next 2-3 years, ranging in price from entry-level scooters to dirt bikes and high-performance electric motorcycles. This comprehensive approach shows Hero is serious about competing across all electric two-wheeler segments.

The company is looking to introduce the Vida Lynx in 2026, an electric dirt bike with a modest annual volume of 10,000 units primarily aimed at developed international markets. Additionally, two more motorcycles – equivalent to 150cc and 250cc ICE models – are being planned under the project named ADZA, targeting young riders seeking style and performance.

Technology Meets Tradition

While specific technical details remain under wraps, industry reports suggest the Splendor Electric will feature an impressive 200km range, positioning it favorably against current competitors in the electric motorcycle segment. This range capability addresses one of the primary concerns Indian consumers have about electric vehicles—range anxiety.

The electric Splendor is expected to maintain the approachable simplicity that has been a hallmark of the petrol model while incorporating modern features that enhance the riding experience. The challenge for Hero’s engineers lies in preserving the Splendor’s legendary reliability and durability standards while transitioning to electric powertrains.

Market Positioning and Competitive Landscape

The AEDA project is aimed at the commuter segment or daily business users, staying true to the Splendor’s original positioning. This focus on practical, everyday transportation rather than performance or premium features aligns with Hero’s understanding of its core customer base. The electric Splendor will compete with emerging players like Revolt and Ultraviolette, but its biggest advantage lies in the trust and familiarity associated with the Splendor nameplate.

Hero MotoCorp appears to be targeting its existing customer base with the electric Splendor while also appealing to environmentally conscious urban commuters looking for a reliable, long-range electric option. The significantly lower operating costs make a compelling case for the electric variant, especially for high-mileage users such as delivery personnel and daily commuters.

Financial Implications and Market Impact

While the purchase price of the Splendor Electric is expected to be higher than its petrol counterpart, the economic calculation becomes favorable when considering total cost of ownership over the vehicle’s lifetime. With electricity costs significantly lower than petrol, the running cost advantage could be substantial for users who cover high daily mileage.

The company is eyeing cumulative volumes of over half a million units annually from electric vehicles by 2027-28. The range of motorcycles is likely to contribute over 2.5 lakh units per annum, with scooters accounting for another 2.5-3 lakh units. These ambitious targets reflect Hero’s determination to replicate its ICE market dominance in the electric segment.

Challenges and Opportunities Ahead

Hero MotoCorp, India’s largest two-wheeler maker, has been on the fringes of the electric vehicle market compared to newer entrants who have moved more aggressively into EVs. However, the company’s delayed entry might work in its favor, allowing it to learn from early market experiences and develop more refined products.

The biggest challenge will be achieving the right balance between cost, performance, and reliability that made the original Splendor successful. Indian consumers, particularly in the commuter segment, are extremely price-sensitive and expect exceptional value for money.

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Hero Splendor Electric The Road to 2027

The imminent launch of the Hero Splendor Electric with its game-changing range marks a significant milestone in India’s electric vehicle landscape. By electrifying its most iconic model, Hero MotoCorp is making a bold statement about the future direction of mass-market mobility in India.

For consumers, this represents an opportunity to embrace electric mobility without the compromises that earlier electric two-wheelers often required. The combination of familiar design language, trusted brand value, practical range, and reasonable economics positions the Splendor Electric to potentially replicate the success of its petrol counterpart in the electric era.

As launch details become more concrete over the next two years, the industry will be watching closely to see if Hero can indeed transform India’s electric two-wheeler market the same way the original Splendor revolutionized personal transportation three decades ago.