Hero MotoCorp has introduced flex-fuel versions of the Splendor+ and HF Deluxe motorcycles. These bikes are compatible with ethanol blends from E20 up to E85, aiming to reduce carbon emissions in the 100cc commuter segment. The vehicles feature revised ECUs and specific engine tuning to handle higher ethanol concentrations. They will initially be available in Delhi and parts of Maharashtra starting July 2026 as part of India's broader goal to lower carbon intensity.
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The 45% carbon intensity target by 2030 is the real driver here. Moving the 100cc segment to flex fuel is a smart way to scale ethanol use where the volume is highest, but it depends entirely on the retail availability of E85.
Exactly. The bikes are ready, but is the fuel infrastructure? I want to see the rollout plan for E85 pumps in Maharashtra and Delhi before calling this a win. Without the fuel, it is just a standard E20 bike.
Hero is targeting the mass market here. If they can actually get people off pure gasoline in the commuter class, the aggregate emissions drop is huge. Still, the article is vague on the actual lifecycle emissions of the ethanol used.
The price jump is the thing. Splendor+ at 87k is a step up. In this segment, a few thousand rupees can decide if a buyer goes for this or a cheap electric scooter. The payback period on fuel savings needs to be clear.
