Hero MotoCorp launches the Splendor iSmart

Start/stop technology has been a staple for many of the larger cars on our roads in a bid to increase the large engine’s fuel efficiency and to decrease CO2 emissions. Hero MotoCorp has instituted this technology into their Splendor iSmart making it the first production motorcycle in India and the world to sport this tech. First showcased at the 2014 Auto Expo, Hero has gotten around to launching the Splendor with a start/stop system they have termed as ‘i3S Technology’. The 100cc motorcycle will be available in Sports Red, Leaf Green, Excellent Blue and Heavy Grey and will be priced at Rs. 47,250 (ex-showroom Delhi), Rs 49,967 (ex-showroom Mumbai), Rs 48,192 (ex-showroom Chennai), Rs 48,549 (ex-showroom Kolkata) and Rs 48,014 (ex-showroom Bengaluru).

The Splendor’s 100cc single cylinder air-cooled engine develops 7bhp at 7500rpm and 8Nm of torque at 4500rpm and helped by its new start/stop system, is claimed to deliver significantly better fuel economy. The system comes into play when the motorbike is at a halt and can be disengaged by a press of the clutch in neutral gear. The ‘i3S Technology’ will surely make for better mileage in congested city conditions where traffic is at a stand-still for large parts, especially during office hours.