Hero MotoCorp has introduced flex fuel versions of the Splendor+ and HF Deluxe motorcycles. These bikes are compatible with ethanol blends ranging from E20 to E85, marking a shift toward biofuels in India's mass market 100cc segment. The rollout begins in Delhi and Maharashtra in July 2026 before expanding nationwide. This initiative supports India's goal to reduce economic carbon intensity by 45% by 2030 and decrease reliance on imported crude oil.
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The goal of reducing carbon intensity by 45% is a big target. Moving the 100cc segment to E85 helps, but the real test is whether the fuel infrastructure can actually deliver high ethanol blends at scale in rural areas.
Exactly. The bike is ready, but is the pump ready? I want to see the actual distribution map for E85. Without a dense network of flex fuel stations, these just become expensive E20 bikes.
Hero is targeting the mass market here. If you can get the Splendor and HF Deluxe on biofuels, you move a massive amount of volume. It is a practical way to lower emissions without waiting for everyone to switch to EVs.
The cost difference is small, but the maintenance side is what matters. Ethanol can be hard on older fuel systems, so the upgraded ECU and components mentioned are the most important part of this spec sheet.
