The iconic Hero Splendor has been a staple on Indian roads for decades, known for its reliability, fuel efficiency, and no-nonsense approach to daily commuting. Now, in a bold move that signals the changing landscape of transportation in India, Hero MotoCorp has launched the all-electric version of this beloved motorcycle. The Hero Splendor Electric 2025, launched on March 27, 2025, represents a significant milestone in India’s journey toward sustainable mobility. Let’s dive deep into what makes this electric avatar of India’s favorite commuter motorcycle special and whether it lives up to the legendary Splendor name.
The Electric Revolution: Hero Splendor EV Unveiled
Hero MotoCorp’s decision to electrify the Splendor isn’t just a business move—it’s a statement. By converting their best-selling model to electric, they’re signaling that the future of Indian commuting is electric. The Splendor Electric maintains the familiar silhouette that millions of Indians recognize while incorporating modern electric technology that promises to reduce emissions and running costs1.
The launch comes at a time when India is pushing for greater adoption of electric vehicles to combat air pollution and reduce dependency on imported fossil fuels. With the Splendor being such a household name, Hero is leveraging its trusted reputation to help ease the transition to electric mobility for the average Indian commuter.
What’s particularly interesting is how Hero has managed to keep the essence of the Splendor intact. They’ve retained the classic design elements that made the motorcycle so popular while modernizing it for an electric future. It’s like meeting an old friend who’s gotten a sophisticated makeover—familiar yet refreshingly new.
Price Point and Market Positioning
Priced at ₹1.10 lakh (ex-showroom), the Hero Splendor Electric positions itself as an accessible option in the growing electric two-wheeler market. When you factor in taxes and insurance, the on-road price comes to approximately ₹1.25-1.30 lakh. While this is certainly more expensive than its petrol counterpart, the long-term savings on fuel and maintenance aim to offset the initial investment.
Compared to competitors like the Revolt RV400 (₹1.18 lakh) and the Ola Roadster (₹1.04 lakh), the Splendor Electric sits comfortably in the middle of the price range. It’s not trying to be the cheapest option, but rather the most reliable and familiar one—a strategy that plays to Hero’s strengths.
Powertrain and Performance Specifications
Electric Motor and Battery Technology
At the heart of the Splendor Electric is a 3 kW (4 bhp) BLDC motor powered by a 4 kWh lithium-ion battery1. This setup delivers a top speed of 75 km/h, which is perfectly adequate for urban commuting and navigating through congested city streets. The instant torque characteristic of electric motors gives the bike a peppy feel, allowing it to accelerate from 0-40 km/h in approximately 7 seconds.
The motor is specifically tuned to mimic the feel of the traditional 100-110cc petrol engine that Splendor users are familiar with, making the transition to electric as seamless as possible. This thoughtful calibration ensures that long-time Splendor riders won’t feel alienated by the new powertrain.
Range and Charging Infrastructure
One of the most impressive aspects of the Splendor Electric is its range. On a single charge, the standard battery offers a range of 120 km, which can be extended to 180 km with an optional 2 kWh extra battery pack. This is significantly more than the average daily commute in India, which typically ranges from 30-40 kilometers.
Charging is straightforward and convenient. A full charge takes 4-5 hours using a standard electrical outlet, while fast charging can get the battery to 80% capacity in just 1.5 hours. This flexibility makes the Splendor Electric practical for various living situations, whether you have a dedicated charging space or need to rely on public charging infrastructure.
The economics of charging are compelling as well. A full charge costs approximately ₹25-30, making it substantially cheaper to run than a petrol motorcycle. For a country where fuel efficiency is often the primary consideration when purchasing a vehicle, this represents a significant advantage.
Design and Ergonomics
Familiar Yet Forward-Looking Design
Hero has wisely chosen to maintain the classic Splendor silhouette while incorporating modern elements that signify its electric nature. The round headlamp, sleek tank, and minimalist overall design remain, creating an instant connection with the Splendor legacy.
However, there are subtle updates that bring the design into 2025. The bike features matte panels that are resistant to scratches, LED headlights and taillights for improved visibility, and subtle blue accents that hint at its electric powertrain. The traditional fuel tank space has been repurposed as a storage compartment, offering 9.8 liters of practical storage—a clever adaptation to the electric architecture.
Comfort and Handling
Weighing in at 110 kg, the Splendor Electric is light and easy to maneuver, making it ideal for navigating tight spaces and congested traffic. The seat height of 785 mm accommodates riders of various heights, continuing the Splendor tradition of being accessible to a wide range of users.
The suspension setup consists of telescopic forks at the front and twin shocks at the rear, tuned specifically for Indian road conditions. This soft tuning ensures a comfortable ride over bumpy surfaces, whether riding solo or with a passenger. Importantly, the addition of the battery hasn’t negatively impacted the bike’s balance or handling characteristics.
Braking and Safety Features
The braking system employs drum brakes at both the front and rear, complemented by a combined braking system (CBS) for balanced stopping power. While some might lament the absence of a disc brake option, the current setup is adequate for the bike’s 75 km/h top speed and intended use case.
Safety features include the CBS braking system and a side-stand cut-off that prevents the motorcycle from starting unless the stand is retracted. These practical safety measures enhance the overall user experience without adding unnecessary complexity.
Features and Technology
Practical Technology Integration
The Splendor Electric doesn’t overwhelm with high-tech features but focuses on practical functionality. It comes equipped with a semi-digital instrument cluster that displays essential information like speed, battery level, and trip data in a clear, easy-to-read format.
While it doesn’t offer Bluetooth connectivity, it does include a USB port for charging mobile devices on the go1. The LED lighting system not only looks modern but also consumes less power, contributing to the overall efficiency of the motorcycle.
One notable technical upgrade is the silent belt drive that replaces the traditional chain drive. This reduces maintenance requirements and provides a smoother, quieter riding experience—further emphasizing the refined nature of electric mobility.
| Feature | Specification |
|---|---|
| Motor | 3 kW (4 bhp) BLDC |
| Battery | 4 kWh lithium-ion |
| Range | 120 km (standard), 180 km (with extra battery) |
| Top Speed | 75 km/h |
| Charging Time | 4-5 hours (standard), 1.5 hours (80% with fast charging) |
| Weight | 110 kg |
| Seat Height | 785 mm |
| Price | ₹1.10 lakh (ex-showroom) |
Riding Modes and User Experience
Though not explicitly mentioned in the search results, electric motorcycles in this category typically offer multiple riding modes to optimize performance and range. The Splendor Electric likely includes different modes that allow riders to prioritize either range or performance depending on their needs for a particular journey.
The overall user experience focuses on simplicity and familiarity—key attributes of the Splendor brand. The controls are intuitive, the riding position is comfortable for long periods, and the operation is straightforward. It’s an electric motorcycle designed for the masses, not just tech enthusiasts.
Comparison with Competitors
When compared to its direct competitors, the Hero Splendor Electric holds its own. Against the Revolt RV400, the Splendor offers a slightly lower range (120 km vs. 150 km) but compensates with a lower price point and lighter weight.
In comparison to the Ola Roadster, the Splendor Electric is positioned at a slightly higher price point than the base model (₹1.10 lakh vs. ₹1.04 lakh) but emphasizes durability and reliability over cutting-edge technology. This strategy aligns with the Splendor’s long-standing reputation as a dependable workhorse.
Premium options like the Ultraviolette F77 (₹2.99 lakh) target a completely different segment with higher performance and more features at a significantly higher price point. The Splendor Electric isn’t trying to compete in this space, instead focusing on what it does best—providing practical, affordable transportation for the masses.
Conclusion: The Electric Future of India’s Favorite Commuter
The Hero Splendor Electric 2025 represents a significant milestone in India’s transition to electric mobility. By electrifying its most iconic model, Hero MotoCorp has created a bridge between the familiar past and the sustainable future. With its practical range, affordable running costs, and trusted reliability, the Splendor Electric makes a compelling case for everyday riders looking to make the switch to electric.
At ₹1.10 lakh, it offers a balance of traditional Splendor values—comfort, reliability, and practicality—with the benefits of electric propulsion: zero emissions, lower running costs, and reduced maintenance. While it may not be the flashiest or most technologically advanced electric motorcycle on the market, it delivers exactly what the majority of Indian commuters need: dependable, efficient transportation that’s easy to live with.
As India continues its push toward electrification, the Hero Splendor Electric is poised to play a crucial role in making electric two-wheelers mainstream. Just as the original Splendor helped motorize millions of Indians, its electric descendant might well be the vehicle that helps them embrace a cleaner, more sustainable future.
FAQs About the Hero Splendor Electric 2025
1. How long does it take to fully charge the Hero Splendor Electric?
A full charge takes approximately 4-5 hours using a standard electrical outlet. If you’re in a hurry, fast charging can get you to 80% battery capacity in about 1.5 hours.
2. Can I upgrade the range of my Splendor Electric after purchase?
Yes, Hero offers an optional 2 kWh extra battery pack that can extend the range from 120 km to 180 km, making it suitable for longer journeys or reducing charging frequency.
3. How does the maintenance cost of the Splendor Electric compare to the petrol version?
The electric version has significantly lower maintenance costs due to fewer moving parts. There’s no need for oil changes, air filter replacements, or carburetor tuning, and the belt drive requires less maintenance than a traditional chain drive.
4. Is the Hero Splendor Electric eligible for government subsidies?
While specific subsidy information wasn’t provided in the search results, most electric two-wheelers in India are eligible for FAME II subsidies and state-level incentives that can reduce the effective purchase price. Check with your local Hero dealership for the latest subsidy information.
5. How does the performance of the Splendor Electric compare to its petrol counterpart?
The Splendor Electric offers similar performance to the petrol version but with the advantage of instant torque from the electric motor. This makes it feel more responsive at low speeds, which is particularly useful in city traffic. The top speed of 75 km/h is comparable to the petrol Splendor and adequate for urban commuting.