Hero MotoCorp’s strategy is aimed at improving margins, strengthening its premium positioning and accelerating growth across global markets.
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Hero MotoCorp has revealed the strategy behind its FY2026-27 product pipeline, signalling a broader shift towards premium motorcycles, Harley-Davidson products, electric mobility and export-focused models as it looks to diversify beyond the commuter-bike franchise that has underpinned its leadership for more than two decades.The annual report says the company plans new products under both the Hero MotoCorp and Harley-Davidson brands in the fast-growing 250cc-350cc premium segment, where it acknowledges it remains under-represented, while continuing to expand the VIDA electric portfolio and develop products for overseas markets.This follows Chief Executive Officer Harshavardhan Chitale’s earlier statement that Hero expects more than 12 major product launches during FY27.The expansion builds on one of the industry’s widest product portfolios. Hero currently offers 17 motorcycles, eight internal-combustion scooters and five VIDA electric products, giving it 30 Hero- and VIDA-branded models.Alongside these, it markets 14 Harley-Davidson motorcycles in India, taking the combined portfolio to 44 products across the Hero, VIDA and Harley-Davidson brands.Premium shifts to centre stageThe annual report makes clear that Hero’s next phase of growth will be driven by product mix rather than volumes alone. The company identifies motorcycles below 350cc as one of the fastest-growing parts of the market and describes the 250cc-350cc category as the industry’s “sweet spot”.It also acknowledges that Hero remains under-represented in premium motorcycles, making the FY27 pipeline central to strengthening its position in one of the industry’s highest-margin segments.While premium motorcycles account for lower volumes than commuter bikes, they generate higher realisations and create additional revenue opportunities through accessories, merchandise, servicing and financing.Harley and VIDA broaden the portfolioHero’s partnership with Harley-Davidson is also entering a broader product phase. Beyond the locally manufactured X440 and X440T, the company plans additional products under both the Hero MotoCorp and Harley-Davidson brands.The collaboration has already produced the Hero Hunk 440 for overseas markets using the same platform, highlighting Hero’s strategy of developing common architectures that can support multiple brands and markets.At the same time, Hero plans to expand its VIDA electric portfolio to strengthen its position in India’s fast-growing electric two-wheeler market.Products for global marketsThe product strategy extends beyond India. Hero said it will continue developing market-specific products for Asia, Africa, Latin America and Europe after entering Germany, France, Italy, Spain and the UK with Euro5+-compliant motorcycles. Premium products now account for around 25 per cent of Hero’s global product mix, while the Hunk family has become one of its key export growth drivers.The annual report shows Hero’s FY27 pipeline is designed to achieve more than simply adding new models.It is intended to rebalance the company’s portfolio towards premium motorcycles, electric mobility and overseas markets, reducing its dependence on commuter motorcycles while improving margins and strengthening its presence in the industry’s fastest-growing segments.Published on July 14, 2026
