Hero MotoCorp unveils India's first ethanol flex motorcycles

Hero MotoCorp launched India's first flex-fuel motorcycles on Wednesday, introducing ethanol-compatible variants of its popular Splendor and HF Deluxe models. The new vehicles are designed to run on fuel blends containing between 20% and 85% ethanol, marking a significant step in the country's push toward cleaner mobility and reduced dependence on imported crude oil.

The HF Deluxe Flex Fuel is priced at 72,792 rupees, while the Splendor Flex Fuel costs 82,710 rupees, both prices exclusive of showroom charges in Delhi. The motorcycles will first become available in Delhi and select regions of Maharashtra starting in July 2026, with a nationwide rollout planned thereafter.

The launch event was attended by Nitin Gadkari, Minister of Road Transport and Highways, and Hardeep Singh Puri, Minister of Petroleum and Natural Gas. Officials highlighted the national significance of the move. Gadkari stated that flex-fuel technology can reduce carbon monoxide emissions by 77%, lower import dependence, and enable substantial foreign exchange savings. He described the launch as a significant step toward reducing crude oil imports, supporting ethanol adoption, and empowering farmers.