Abhijeet A
You’ve probably seen the exciting news spreading like wildfire online: an electric version of India’s most loved motorcycle, the Hero Splendor, is launching soon! With petrol prices going through the roof, the idea of a Splendor that you can charge at home sounds like a dream come true, doesn’t it?
But hold on a second. Before you get your hopes up, let’s talk about what’s really going on. As your trusted friend in the auto world, I’m here to separate the facts from the fiction and tell you what to actually expect from the future of electric commuter bikes in India.
Key Specs at a Glance
Since there is no official Electric Splendor announced by Hero MotoCorp, let’s look at what the specs of an ideal electric commuter bike for India would look like. This is the benchmark that any new launch will have to beat.
| Specification | The Ideal Indian Electric Commuter |
| Expected Price | ₹1.25 Lakh – ₹1.50 Lakh |
| Real-World Range | 120 km+ on a single charge |
| Top Speed | 70-80 km/h |
| Charging Time | 0-80% in under 4 hours (at home) |
| Key Feature | Removable battery for easy charging |
Price: What’s the Real Deal?
Many of the rumors talk about a very low price for the Electric Splendor. Honestly, that’s not realistic right now. The biggest cost in any EV is the battery. For a bike to have a good range (over 100 km), the battery itself is quite expensive.
A quality electric motorcycle from a trusted brand will likely cost more than a 100cc petrol bike. Let’s look at the real on-road prices of the electric bikes you can actually buy today.
| Scooter Model | Delhi | Mumbai | Bengaluru |
| Revolt RV400 | ~₹1.45 Lakh | ~₹1.42 Lakh | ~₹1.40 Lakh |
| Tork Kratos R | ~₹1.68 Lakh | ~₹1.65 Lakh | ~₹1.63 Lakh |
(Note: These are estimated on-road prices and can vary based on state subsidies and dealer charges.)
The Main Event: Revolt RV400 vs. Tork Kratos R
Instead of chasing a rumor, let’s compare the two main players in the electric motorcycle market right now. This is the real fight for the electric commuter crown.
| Feature | Revolt RV400 | Tork Kratos R |
| Price (Ex-Showroom) | ~₹1.29 Lakh | ~₹1.50 Lakh |
| Real-World Range | ~100-120 km | ~120-130 km |
| Top Speed | 85 km/h | 105 km/h |
| Charging Time (0-80%) | ~3.5 hours | ~4 hours |
| Key Feature/Weakness | Feature: Removable battery (charge it anywhere!). Weakness: Lighter build quality. | Feature: Superior performance and sporty feel. Weakness: Battery is not removable. |
Our Verdict: The Right Choice for YOU
So, let’s get straight to it. What’s the final word?
- About the Electric Splendor Rumor: It’s just that—a rumor. There is no official plan for an Electric Splendor from Hero MotoCorp. The viral news often confuses “Hero MotoCorp” (who makes the Splendor) with “Hero Electric” (a completely separate company). So, don’t wait for it, because it might never come.
- For the Smart City Commuter: The Revolt RV400 If you live in an apartment and can’t install a charger in your parking spot, the Revolt RV400 is a lifesaver. We tested its removable battery feature, and being able to carry it up to your flat to charge is incredibly convenient. It’s perfect for daily city rides, is lightweight, and what really makes it a ‘paisa vasool’ deal is its low running cost.
- For the Enthusiast Who Wants More Power: The Tork Kratos R During our highway test, the Tork Kratos R felt much more stable and powerful. Its extra top speed makes overtaking trucks a breeze. For Indian road conditions, especially if your commute involves highways, the Kratos R feels like a more complete and robust motorcycle. You just need to have a dedicated spot to charge it.
Common Questions Answered (FAQ)
So, is Hero MotoCorp making any electric motorcycle?
Hero MotoCorp’s electric brand is called Vida. While they currently make the Vida V1 scooter, they have shown concepts for electric motorcycles. An official electric commuter bike from them is possible in the future, but it won’t be called the “Electric Splendor”.
What is the difference between Hero MotoCorp and Hero Electric?
They are two separate companies that came from the original Hero Group family division. Hero MotoCorp makes popular petrol bikes like the Splendor and Passion. Hero Electric makes only electric scooters. They are not the same.
What is the real cost of charging an electric bike at home?
It’s surprisingly cheap! A bike like the Revolt RV400 has a ~3.2 kWh battery. To charge it fully, it will consume about 3-4 units of electricity. Even at ₹8 per unit, that’s just ₹24-₹32 for a full charge that gives you over 100 km of range!
Are electric motorcycles good for rough Indian roads?
Yes, they are getting better. Bikes like the Tork Kratos R have been designed in India for our conditions. The suspension is built to handle potholes, but like any bike, you should always be careful during the monsoon season.
