In the bustling streets of India, where two-wheelers reign supreme, a new contender has emerged to claim the throne of the commuter segment.
Hero MotoCorp, the world’s largest two-wheeler manufacturer, has unveiled its latest offering – the Hero Splendor Plus Xtech.
This tech-infused avatar of India’s bestselling motorcycle promises to redefine the commuter experience, blending the trusted reliability of the Splendor with cutting-edge features that cater to the modern rider.
A Legacy Reimagined
The Splendor nameplate has been a cornerstone of Indian motorcycling for decades, synonymous with dependability and fuel efficiency.
With the introduction of the Xtech variant, Hero MotoCorp aims to elevate this iconic brand to new heights, addressing the evolving needs of the tech-savvy Indian consumer.
Pawan Munjal, Chairman and CEO of Hero MotoCorp, states, “The Splendor Plus Xtech is not just an upgrade; it’s a reimagining of what a commuter motorcycle can be.
We’ve taken the DNA of the Splendor and infused it with technology that enhances both functionality and the riding experience.”
Design: Familiar Yet Fresh
At first glance, the Splendor Plus Xtech retains the classic silhouette that has made it a favorite among millions.
However, a closer look reveals subtle design enhancements that give it a more contemporary appeal.
The headlamp cluster now features LED daytime running lights, adding a touch of modernity to the front fascia. New graphics and color schemes, including a striking Electric Blue and a sophisticated Matte Black, give the Xtech a visual edge over its predecessors.
Malo Le Masson, Head of Strategy at Hero MotoCorp, explains, “We wanted to respect the Splendor’s iconic design while giving it a fresh, tech-forward appearance.
The result is a bike that looks familiar yet distinctly new.”
Heart of the Matter: The Powerplant
Under the skin, the Splendor Plus Xtech retains the tried-and-tested 97.2cc air-cooled engine. This reliable powerplant continues to deliver an impressive fuel efficiency of up to 80 kmpl, a figure that has long been the Splendor’s key selling point.
However, Hero’s engineers have fine-tuned the engine management system, resulting in smoother power delivery and improved throttle response.
The engine produces 8.02 PS at 8000 rpm and 8.05 Nm of torque at 6000 rpm, figures that translate to peppy performance in city traffic.
A 4-speed gearbox completes the drivetrain, offering seamless shifts for a comfortable riding experience.
Tech Takes Center Stage
The ‘X’ in Xtech isn’t just for show. Hero has packed this variant with a host of technological features that set it apart in the commuter segment:
- Digital-Analog Instrument Cluster: A first for the Splendor line, this hybrid display offers the best of both worlds. The analog speedometer provides at-a-glance speed information, while the digital display shows fuel level, trip meter, and real-time fuel efficiency.
- Mobile Connectivity: Through Hero’s proprietary app, riders can connect their smartphones to the bike. This enables features like call and message notifications, turn-by-turn navigation, and ride statistics.
- USB Charging Port: A thoughtful addition for the always-connected rider, allowing for on-the-go charging of mobile devices.
- i3S Technology: Hero’s idle start-stop system, which automatically shuts off the engine at traffic stops and restarts it with a twist of the throttle, enhancing fuel efficiency in urban conditions.
- Side-Stand Engine Cut-off: A safety feature that prevents the engine from starting if the side stand is down, reducing the risk of accidents.
Dr. Arun Jaura, Chief Technology Officer at Hero MotoCorp, proudly states, “The Xtech variant represents our commitment to bringing advanced technology to the masses.
These features aren’t just add-ons; they’re carefully integrated to enhance the overall riding experience.”
Safety First
Hero hasn’t neglected safety in its pursuit of technology. The Splendor Plus Xtech comes equipped with Combi-Brake System (CBS), which distributes braking force between the front and rear wheels for more stable deceleration.
The bike also features tubeless tires, reducing the risk of sudden deflation and improving overall safety.
Market Positioning and Pricing
The Hero Splendor Plus Xtech is positioned as a premium offering within the Splendor lineup. Priced at ₹72,900 (ex-showroom, Delhi), it commands a slight premium over the standard Splendor Plus. However, Hero believes that the added features and enhanced riding experience justify the price difference.
Ranjivjit Singh, Chief Growth Officer at Hero MotoCorp, explains the pricing strategy: “The Xtech variant offers significant value addition over the standard model.
We’re giving customers a taste of premium features at a price point that remains accessible to the average Indian consumer.”
Production and Availability
Hero MotoCorp’s state-of-the-art manufacturing facilities are geared up for the production of the Splendor Plus Xtech.
The company plans to produce 50,000 units per month initially, with the capacity to ramp up production based on demand.
The bike will be available across Hero’s extensive dealership network, which spans over 6,000 touchpoints across India.
Bookings have already commenced, with deliveries expected to begin in the coming weeks.
The Road Ahead: Challenges and Opportunities
The introduction of the Splendor Plus Xtech is not without its challenges. In a segment where price sensitivity is high, convincing consumers to opt for a more expensive variant could be an uphill task.
Moreover, as more competitors introduce tech-laden offerings in the commuter segment, Hero will need to continuously innovate to maintain its edge.
However, the opportunities are equally significant. As India’s young, tech-savvy population enters the workforce, there’s a growing demand for commuter vehicles that offer more than just point-A-to-point-B transportation. The Xtech variant positions Hero to capture this evolving market.
Hero Splendor Plus Xtech : A New Chapter in Commuter Motorcycling
The Hero Splendor Plus Xtech represents more than just a new variant in Hero’s lineup; it signifies the evolution of the commuter motorcycle segment in India.
By blending the trusted reliability of the Splendor with modern technology, Hero MotoCorp is setting a new standard for what riders can expect from an entry-level motorcycle.
As the Splendor Plus Xtech hits the roads, it carries with it the legacy of India’s most popular motorcycle and the promise of a tech-enabled future.
Whether this bold move will pay off remains to be seen, but one thing is certain: the humble commuter motorcycle will never be the same again.
In the ever-changing landscape of Indian mobility, the Hero Splendor Plus Xtech stands as a bridge between tradition and innovation, ready to write the next chapter in the story of India’s love affair with two-wheelers.