Hero MotoCorp, India’s leading motorcycle manufacturer, is set to enter the UK and European markets with the launch of its e-scooters under the Vida electric brand in mid-2025. This expansion marks the company’s first foray into these developed markets, where it aims to meet the increasing demand for electric vehicles.
The announcement aligns with ongoing discussions regarding a free trade agreement between India and the UK, which could reduce tariffs in the automotive sector, creating further growth opportunities for the company.
Niranjan Gupta, Hero’s chief executive, expressed optimism about customer reception in the UK, France, and Spain, noting the positive sentiment towards electric mobility in these regions. Hero MotoCorp has established a strong presence in Asia, Africa, and Latin America and plans to leverage this enthusiasm as it transitions into electric vehicles.
In addition to its e-scooter initiative, Hero MotoCorp is also exploring the export of larger, petrol-engine motorcycles, including its premium Mavrick model, to the UK and Europe. Analysts suggest that succeeding in these markets will require a focus on higher-end motorcycles, an area where Hero has yet to build a strong reputation.
Hero MotoCorp’s existing partnership with Harley-Davidson allows the company to manufacture the iconic brand’s motorcycles for the Indian market. Gupta mentioned that expanding Harley-Davidson exports to the UK would depend on future agreements, as the current partnership is limited to India.
Hero’s expansion into Europe coincides with India’s updated vehicle emission standards, which now align with global regulations, creating new opportunities for Indian manufacturers. With rising tariffs on Chinese imports, Indian companies like Hero MotoCorp see an advantageous position in these developed markets. However, the company will face challenges in navigating the competitive landscape and establishing its premium motorcycle offerings alongside its e-scooter line.
In related news, Hero MotoCorp reported sales of 512,360 units in August 2024, reflecting a 38 percent increase month-on-month. Year-to-date sales have also grown by 8 percent compared to the same period last year.
This performance contrasts sharply with other automakers, as Tata Motors reported an 8.1 percent decline in total sales, with 71,693 vehicles sold in August 2024, down from 78,010 units the previous year. Similarly, Maruti Suzuki experienced a 4 percent year-on-year decrease in total sales.
Despite facing supply shortages that impacted sales slightly, Hero MotoCorp remains optimistic about overcoming these challenges in September, expecting a recovery in production and sales.
